Go Tell That Fox!
Zechariah 7; Zechariah 8; Zechariah 9; Luke 13
Scripture
Luke 13:31 "At that time some Pharisees came to Jesus and said to him, "Leave this place and go somewhere else. Herod wants to kill you."
32He replied, "Go tell that fox, 'I will drive out demons and heal people today and tomorrow, and on the third day I will reach my goal.' 33In any case, I must keep going today and tomorrow and the next day—for surely no prophet can die outside Jerusalem!
34"O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing! 35Look, your house is left to you desolate. I tell you, you will not see me again until you say, 'Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.
Observation
Anybody that doesn’t think that Jesus was tough needs to read this passage! Pharisees had come trying to warn Jesus that Herod was going to kill him, but Jesus replied, “Go tell that fox…”. Jesus was going to die, but he was going to do it according to his plan. No man could touch him until he was ready to be arrested. He was going to heal and work miracles until the appointed day came and then he would allow him self to be arrested and be put to death.
Application
Rebuking someone is not easy and sometimes it is easier just to let it go, but sometimes we have to rebuke if we are going to help someone.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for showing us how strong Jesus was as he walked on this earth. He was tough, a man’s man. He had no fear of people like we have. Help me to be strong. Help me help men to be all that you want them to be.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Saturday, September 30, 2006
Friday, September 29, 2006
You Fool!
Zechariah 4; Zechariah 5; Zechariah 6; Luke 12
Scripture
Luke 12:14-21 "Jesus replied, "Man, who appointed me a judge or an arbiter between you?" Then he said to them, "Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions."
And he told them this parable: "The ground of a certain rich man produced a good crop. He thought to himself, 'What shall I do? I have no place to store my crops.' "Then he said, 'This is what I'll do. I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. And I'll say to myself, "You have plenty of good things laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink and be merry." '
"But God said to him, 'You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?'
"This is how it will be with anyone who stores up things for himself but is not rich toward God."
Observation
New car, new house, new clothes, it is easy to get caught up in accumulating stuff, but none of it satisfies. We don’t have to really be rich to be like this rich man in this story. All we have to do is have a heart like his. Realizing that what we are able to store up in Heaven is a lot more important than the stuff that we are accumulating down here is a challenge for all of us. Jesus says to sell your stuff, get rid of it so it doesn’t own you. I talked to a friend that is very wealthy and he told me that a person doesn’t own possessions they own him. It is so true. The more stuff you have here on earth the harder it is to concentrate on God’s Kingdom.
Application
Today I will examine my heart and see what possessions are way too important to me.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to be content with the possessions that we have and help me to be more concerned about your kingdom and less concerned about the “wants” of my life. Thank you for providing so much for my family and me. We are truly blessed.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Zechariah 4; Zechariah 5; Zechariah 6; Luke 12
Scripture
Luke 12:14-21 "Jesus replied, "Man, who appointed me a judge or an arbiter between you?" Then he said to them, "Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions."
And he told them this parable: "The ground of a certain rich man produced a good crop. He thought to himself, 'What shall I do? I have no place to store my crops.' "Then he said, 'This is what I'll do. I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. And I'll say to myself, "You have plenty of good things laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink and be merry." '
"But God said to him, 'You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?'
"This is how it will be with anyone who stores up things for himself but is not rich toward God."
Observation
New car, new house, new clothes, it is easy to get caught up in accumulating stuff, but none of it satisfies. We don’t have to really be rich to be like this rich man in this story. All we have to do is have a heart like his. Realizing that what we are able to store up in Heaven is a lot more important than the stuff that we are accumulating down here is a challenge for all of us. Jesus says to sell your stuff, get rid of it so it doesn’t own you. I talked to a friend that is very wealthy and he told me that a person doesn’t own possessions they own him. It is so true. The more stuff you have here on earth the harder it is to concentrate on God’s Kingdom.
Application
Today I will examine my heart and see what possessions are way too important to me.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to be content with the possessions that we have and help me to be more concerned about your kingdom and less concerned about the “wants” of my life. Thank you for providing so much for my family and me. We are truly blessed.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Thursday, September 28, 2006
Do You Want to be Blessed?
Zechariah 1; Zechariah 2; Zechariah 3; Luke 11
Scripture
Luke 11:27 “As Jesus was saying these things, a woman in the crowd called out, "Blessed is the mother who gave you birth and nursed you." He replied, "Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it."
Observation
The key to being a blessed person and the key to having God smile on you and his face shine on you can be summed up in one “obedience”. If you are obedient to God then He will bless you! I don’t know about you, but I want to be a person blessed by God. Matthew 6:33 gives us the same message as it says, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” I have been thinking all week about the prophet Daniel. The angel Gabriel told Daniel that he was a man that was highly esteemed. I want to be highly esteemed by God. Obedience is the key!
Application
Am I being obedient in every area of my life? Show me any area of disobedience Lord.
Prayer
Lord, you are worthy to receive praise! Show me Lord any area where I am being disobedient and convict me until I have confessed every sin. I want you to bless me and I want to be a blessing to other people. Help me to obey you the moment you speak to my heart. I want to hear you when you speak.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Zechariah 1; Zechariah 2; Zechariah 3; Luke 11
Scripture
Luke 11:27 “As Jesus was saying these things, a woman in the crowd called out, "Blessed is the mother who gave you birth and nursed you." He replied, "Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it."
Observation
The key to being a blessed person and the key to having God smile on you and his face shine on you can be summed up in one “obedience”. If you are obedient to God then He will bless you! I don’t know about you, but I want to be a person blessed by God. Matthew 6:33 gives us the same message as it says, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” I have been thinking all week about the prophet Daniel. The angel Gabriel told Daniel that he was a man that was highly esteemed. I want to be highly esteemed by God. Obedience is the key!
Application
Am I being obedient in every area of my life? Show me any area of disobedience Lord.
Prayer
Lord, you are worthy to receive praise! Show me Lord any area where I am being disobedient and convict me until I have confessed every sin. I want you to bless me and I want to be a blessing to other people. Help me to obey you the moment you speak to my heart. I want to hear you when you speak.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
What Must I Do?
Haggai 1; Haggai 2; Psalm 129; Luke 10
Scripture
Luke 10:25 “On one occasion an expert in the law stood up to test Jesus. "Teacher," he asked, "what must I do to inherit eternal life?" "What is written in the Law?" he replied. "How do you read it?"
He answered: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind'[c]; and, 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'[d]"
"You have answered correctly," Jesus replied. "Do this and you will live."
But he wanted to justify himself, so he asked Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?"
In reply Jesus said: "A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, when he fell into the hands of robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead. A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, took him to an inn and took care of him. The next day he took out two silver coins[e] and gave them to the innkeeper. 'Look after him,' he said, 'and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.'
"Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?"
The expert in the law replied, "The one who had mercy on him."
Jesus told him, "Go and do likewise."
Observation
When you ask someone, “In your personal opinion what do you understand that it takes for a person to go to Heaven and have Eternal Life?” They almost always give you a works answer. In other words, they will say that a person must be good, or they must be moral, or they must go to church, or they must be nice to people etc.
In Acts 16:30, the Philippian Jailor asked the same question and Paul and Silas gave him the answer, “He then brought them out and asked, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" 31 They replied, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved--you and your household."
So what must you do to be saved? Final answer! Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved. Final answer!
Application
Our main task in this life is helping people understand that good works will not save them, but trusting and placing their faith in Jesus Christ will.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to be able to share the Gospel clearly where people will understand the way of salvation. Bring people into my life that need to hear and open up their hearts so they will respond and be saved.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Haggai 1; Haggai 2; Psalm 129; Luke 10
Scripture
Luke 10:25 “On one occasion an expert in the law stood up to test Jesus. "Teacher," he asked, "what must I do to inherit eternal life?" "What is written in the Law?" he replied. "How do you read it?"
He answered: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind'[c]; and, 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'[d]"
"You have answered correctly," Jesus replied. "Do this and you will live."
But he wanted to justify himself, so he asked Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?"
In reply Jesus said: "A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, when he fell into the hands of robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead. A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, took him to an inn and took care of him. The next day he took out two silver coins[e] and gave them to the innkeeper. 'Look after him,' he said, 'and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.'
"Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?"
The expert in the law replied, "The one who had mercy on him."
Jesus told him, "Go and do likewise."
Observation
When you ask someone, “In your personal opinion what do you understand that it takes for a person to go to Heaven and have Eternal Life?” They almost always give you a works answer. In other words, they will say that a person must be good, or they must be moral, or they must go to church, or they must be nice to people etc.
In Acts 16:30, the Philippian Jailor asked the same question and Paul and Silas gave him the answer, “He then brought them out and asked, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" 31 They replied, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved--you and your household."
So what must you do to be saved? Final answer! Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved. Final answer!
Application
Our main task in this life is helping people understand that good works will not save them, but trusting and placing their faith in Jesus Christ will.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to be able to share the Gospel clearly where people will understand the way of salvation. Bring people into my life that need to hear and open up their hearts so they will respond and be saved.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Excuses, Excuses, Excuses!
Ezra 4; Psalm 113; Psalm 127; Luke 9
Scripture
Luke 9:57 "As they were walking along the road, a man said to him, "I will follow you wherever you go." Jesus replied, "Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head." He said to another man, "Follow me." But the man replied, "Lord, first let me go and bury my father." Jesus said to him, "Let the dead bury their own dead, but you go and proclaim the kingdom of God." Still another said, "I will follow you, Lord; but first let me go back and say good bye to my family." Jesus replied, "No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God."
Observation
Excuses, we hear them everyday! We may have even used some this week! There are some legitimate excuses, but most excuses are actually lies! Jesus called his disciples to follow Him and the scriptures say that they immediately followed him. Evidently Jesus called other men to follow him and they immediately began to make excuses.
Application
My word needs to be my word. I want to always be a person of integrity that people can count on.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, you don’t want to hear my excuses. I know that you want me to be obedient. Help me to hear your voice and help me to have a willing heart to follow your leadership.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezra 4; Psalm 113; Psalm 127; Luke 9
Scripture
Luke 9:57 "As they were walking along the road, a man said to him, "I will follow you wherever you go." Jesus replied, "Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head." He said to another man, "Follow me." But the man replied, "Lord, first let me go and bury my father." Jesus said to him, "Let the dead bury their own dead, but you go and proclaim the kingdom of God." Still another said, "I will follow you, Lord; but first let me go back and say good bye to my family." Jesus replied, "No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God."
Observation
Excuses, we hear them everyday! We may have even used some this week! There are some legitimate excuses, but most excuses are actually lies! Jesus called his disciples to follow Him and the scriptures say that they immediately followed him. Evidently Jesus called other men to follow him and they immediately began to make excuses.
Application
My word needs to be my word. I want to always be a person of integrity that people can count on.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, you don’t want to hear my excuses. I know that you want me to be obedient. Help me to hear your voice and help me to have a willing heart to follow your leadership.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Monday, September 25, 2006
Joy Robbers / Kill Joys
Ezra 2; Ezra 3; Luke 8
Scripture
Ezra 3:10 "When the builders laid the foundation of the temple of the LORD, the priests in their vestments and with trumpets, and the Levites (the sons of Asaph) with cymbals, took their places to praise the LORD, as prescribed by David king of Israel. 11 With praise and thanksgiving they sang to the LORD :
"He is good;
his love to Israel endures forever."
And all the people gave a great shout of praise to the LORD, because the foundation of the house of the LORD was laid. 12 But many of the older priests and Levites and family heads, who had seen the former temple, wept aloud when they saw the foundation of this temple being laid, while many others shouted for joy. 13 No one could distinguish the sound of the shouts of joy from the sound of weeping, because the people made so much noise. And the sound was heard far away.
Observation
Ever met someone that was a “Kill Joy” if you have then you know that they are no fun to be around. They can take the air right out of your sails. They can take the wind right out of you. Right in the middle of a time of celebration they start with their moaning, criticizing, complaining, poor mouthing, and the joy that is in the air suddenly gets hidden within the midst of their negativity. Nothing is good enough for them all they can remember is the good ole days. They compare everything to the way it used to be done or the way it used to be. This is what happened in this story. The new temple as glorious as it was going to be couldn’t compare to the old one. It didn’t matter to those complainers that there had been a Revival in the hearts of the people and that they were returning to the Lord. The complainers were more concerned with bricks and stones they weren’t concerned about the hearts of men. Some things never change!
Application
This week I plan to find folks that are doing good and let them know how much I appreciate them.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to be positive today. Help me to find things to celebrate. Help me not be a “Kill Joy”. Thank you for the messages this week. Thank you for the encouragement. Lord, I am proud of our people that took an active part in this weekend. Help me to focus on what you are doing through them and help me not to be discouraged by negative, and critical people.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezra 2; Ezra 3; Luke 8
Scripture
Ezra 3:10 "When the builders laid the foundation of the temple of the LORD, the priests in their vestments and with trumpets, and the Levites (the sons of Asaph) with cymbals, took their places to praise the LORD, as prescribed by David king of Israel. 11 With praise and thanksgiving they sang to the LORD :
"He is good;
his love to Israel endures forever."
And all the people gave a great shout of praise to the LORD, because the foundation of the house of the LORD was laid. 12 But many of the older priests and Levites and family heads, who had seen the former temple, wept aloud when they saw the foundation of this temple being laid, while many others shouted for joy. 13 No one could distinguish the sound of the shouts of joy from the sound of weeping, because the people made so much noise. And the sound was heard far away.
Observation
Ever met someone that was a “Kill Joy” if you have then you know that they are no fun to be around. They can take the air right out of your sails. They can take the wind right out of you. Right in the middle of a time of celebration they start with their moaning, criticizing, complaining, poor mouthing, and the joy that is in the air suddenly gets hidden within the midst of their negativity. Nothing is good enough for them all they can remember is the good ole days. They compare everything to the way it used to be done or the way it used to be. This is what happened in this story. The new temple as glorious as it was going to be couldn’t compare to the old one. It didn’t matter to those complainers that there had been a Revival in the hearts of the people and that they were returning to the Lord. The complainers were more concerned with bricks and stones they weren’t concerned about the hearts of men. Some things never change!
Application
This week I plan to find folks that are doing good and let them know how much I appreciate them.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to be positive today. Help me to find things to celebrate. Help me not be a “Kill Joy”. Thank you for the messages this week. Thank you for the encouragement. Lord, I am proud of our people that took an active part in this weekend. Help me to focus on what you are doing through them and help me not to be discouraged by negative, and critical people.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Sunday, September 24, 2006
Your Sins Are Forgiven!
Ezra 1; Psalm 84; Psalm 85; Luke 7
Scripture
Luke 7:48 Then Jesus said to her, "Your sins are forgiven."
36Now one of the Pharisees invited Jesus to have dinner with him, so he went to the Pharisee's house and reclined at the table. 37When a woman who had lived a sinful life in that town learned that Jesus was eating at the Pharisee's house, she brought an alabaster jar of perfume, 38and as she stood behind him at his feet weeping, she began to wet his feet with her tears. Then she wiped them with her hair, kissed them and poured perfume on them.
39When the Pharisee who had invited him saw this, he said to himself, "If this man were a prophet, he would know who is touching him and what kind of woman she is—that she is a sinner."
40Jesus answered him, "Simon, I have something to tell you."
"Tell me, teacher," he said.
41"Two men owed money to a certain moneylender. One owed him five hundred denarii,[d] and the other fifty. 42Neither of them had the money to pay him back, so he canceled the debts of both. Now which of them will love him more?"
43Simon replied, "I suppose the one who had the bigger debt canceled."
"You have judged correctly," Jesus said.
44Then he turned toward the woman and said to Simon, "Do you see this woman? I came into your house. You did not give me any water for my feet, but she wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. 45You did not give me a kiss, but this woman, from the time I entered, has not stopped kissing my feet. 46You did not put oil on my head, but she has poured perfume on my feet. 47Therefore, I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven—for she loved much. But he who has been forgiven little loves little."
48Then Jesus said to her, "Your sins are forgiven."
49The other guests began to say among themselves, "Who is this who even forgives sins?"
50Jesus said to the woman, "Your faith has saved you; go in peace."
Observation
What a contrast we find in this passage of scripture! We encounter Jesus eating supper at the home of a well to do Pharisee and a sinful woman washing Jesus feet with her hair and her tears. This sinful woman came to Jesus in brokenness and in repentance. She poured expensive perfume on Jesus. This sinful woman left the presence of Jesus forgiven and changed. Have your sins been forgiven? Have you come to Jesus in brokenness and with a changed heart? He wants to forgive our sins, but we have to come to Jesus.
Application
People need to be brought to Jesus. They have to be able to hear that their sins can be forgiven. They need to hear about God’s purpose for their lives. I need to share Jesus with more people this week.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you that my sins are forgiven. Help me share this Good News with someone else this week. Thank you for Jon Reed’s message yesterday. Open hearts this morning in our worship services to respond to your offer of forgiveness. You are Wonderful and Worthy of all my praise!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezra 1; Psalm 84; Psalm 85; Luke 7
Scripture
Luke 7:48 Then Jesus said to her, "Your sins are forgiven."
36Now one of the Pharisees invited Jesus to have dinner with him, so he went to the Pharisee's house and reclined at the table. 37When a woman who had lived a sinful life in that town learned that Jesus was eating at the Pharisee's house, she brought an alabaster jar of perfume, 38and as she stood behind him at his feet weeping, she began to wet his feet with her tears. Then she wiped them with her hair, kissed them and poured perfume on them.
39When the Pharisee who had invited him saw this, he said to himself, "If this man were a prophet, he would know who is touching him and what kind of woman she is—that she is a sinner."
40Jesus answered him, "Simon, I have something to tell you."
"Tell me, teacher," he said.
41"Two men owed money to a certain moneylender. One owed him five hundred denarii,[d] and the other fifty. 42Neither of them had the money to pay him back, so he canceled the debts of both. Now which of them will love him more?"
43Simon replied, "I suppose the one who had the bigger debt canceled."
"You have judged correctly," Jesus said.
44Then he turned toward the woman and said to Simon, "Do you see this woman? I came into your house. You did not give me any water for my feet, but she wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. 45You did not give me a kiss, but this woman, from the time I entered, has not stopped kissing my feet. 46You did not put oil on my head, but she has poured perfume on my feet. 47Therefore, I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven—for she loved much. But he who has been forgiven little loves little."
48Then Jesus said to her, "Your sins are forgiven."
49The other guests began to say among themselves, "Who is this who even forgives sins?"
50Jesus said to the woman, "Your faith has saved you; go in peace."
Observation
What a contrast we find in this passage of scripture! We encounter Jesus eating supper at the home of a well to do Pharisee and a sinful woman washing Jesus feet with her hair and her tears. This sinful woman came to Jesus in brokenness and in repentance. She poured expensive perfume on Jesus. This sinful woman left the presence of Jesus forgiven and changed. Have your sins been forgiven? Have you come to Jesus in brokenness and with a changed heart? He wants to forgive our sins, but we have to come to Jesus.
Application
People need to be brought to Jesus. They have to be able to hear that their sins can be forgiven. They need to hear about God’s purpose for their lives. I need to share Jesus with more people this week.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you that my sins are forgiven. Help me share this Good News with someone else this week. Thank you for Jon Reed’s message yesterday. Open hearts this morning in our worship services to respond to your offer of forgiveness. You are Wonderful and Worthy of all my praise!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Saturday, September 23, 2006
For out of the overflow!
Daniel 11; Daniel 12; Luke 6
Scripture
Luke 6:45 “The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks.”
Observation
Have you ever had someone say, “I know that he/she said that but they are not really like that”! The Bible says differently. This passage says that what your heart is full of will slosh out and splash out on everybody. When I hear someone say bad, negative, hurtful remarks I think of this verse. “…For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks.”
Application
I need to keep my heart filled with God’s Word so the overflow of my heart will be pleasing to Him.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to stay in your Word. When hurtful, negative, mean things come out of my mouth help me to realize that I need to spend time in your Word. I pray that today will go according to your plan. I pray that the picnic will be a life changing experience for someone as Jon Reed shares Christ. Please touch lives today at the ski party and the picnic.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Daniel 11; Daniel 12; Luke 6
Scripture
Luke 6:45 “The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks.”
Observation
Have you ever had someone say, “I know that he/she said that but they are not really like that”! The Bible says differently. This passage says that what your heart is full of will slosh out and splash out on everybody. When I hear someone say bad, negative, hurtful remarks I think of this verse. “…For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks.”
Application
I need to keep my heart filled with God’s Word so the overflow of my heart will be pleasing to Him.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to stay in your Word. When hurtful, negative, mean things come out of my mouth help me to realize that I need to spend time in your Word. I pray that today will go according to your plan. I pray that the picnic will be a life changing experience for someone as Jon Reed shares Christ. Please touch lives today at the ski party and the picnic.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Friday, September 22, 2006
We Have Seen Remarkable Things Today!
Daniel 9; Daniel 10; Psalm 123; Luke 5
Scripture
Luke 5:26 “Everyone was amazed and gave praise to God. They were filled with awe and said, "We have seen remarkable things today."
Observation
While Jesus was speaking in a home a man was suddenly dropped down through the roof by some of the man’s friends. This man was crippled and these men wanted Jesus to heal him. Jesus not only healed him but also told him that his sins were forgiven. So this God Event amazed the folks. It could only be explained as a “God Thing”. I want to see “God Things” in our church’s life. Things that happen that can only be explained as a “God Thing”. I want to be able to say; “We have seen remarkable things today.”
Application
The four men that carried their crippled friend had incredible faith! It was their faith that set this miracle into action! I need to think today about who needs to be brought to Jesus.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for the story of these men bringing their friend to Jesus. Thank you for your Word that is new and fresh every morning. I want to see remarkable things happen in my life and in the life of our church that only can be explained as “God Things”. Do some things this weekend where only you can get the credit. I pray for Jon Reed that you use him to touch lives this weekend.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Daniel 9; Daniel 10; Psalm 123; Luke 5
Scripture
Luke 5:26 “Everyone was amazed and gave praise to God. They were filled with awe and said, "We have seen remarkable things today."
Observation
While Jesus was speaking in a home a man was suddenly dropped down through the roof by some of the man’s friends. This man was crippled and these men wanted Jesus to heal him. Jesus not only healed him but also told him that his sins were forgiven. So this God Event amazed the folks. It could only be explained as a “God Thing”. I want to see “God Things” in our church’s life. Things that happen that can only be explained as a “God Thing”. I want to be able to say; “We have seen remarkable things today.”
Application
The four men that carried their crippled friend had incredible faith! It was their faith that set this miracle into action! I need to think today about who needs to be brought to Jesus.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for the story of these men bringing their friend to Jesus. Thank you for your Word that is new and fresh every morning. I want to see remarkable things happen in my life and in the life of our church that only can be explained as “God Things”. Do some things this weekend where only you can get the credit. I pray for Jon Reed that you use him to touch lives this weekend.
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Thursday, September 21, 2006
Need to get away?
Daniel 7; Daniel 8; Psalm 137; Luke 4
Scripture
Luke 4:42 “At daybreak Jesus went out to a solitary place. The people were looking for him and when they came to where he was, they tried to keep him from leaving them.”
Observation
Have you ever felt like that you just needed to get away? Jesus did. And so Jesus went out to a solitary place early in the morning. There is a lesson for us here in this verse. We need to take time to get alone with the Lord on a regular basis. Right at this very moment I feel emotionally drained. I need to get away and just spend time with the Lord. Even if it is just for a few minutes, I need to go to a solitary place.
Application
In a few moments, I am going to walk out of my office and go spend some time with God. I need my emotional gas tank refilled and the only way to do that is to spend time with him.
Prayer
Father, I am looking forward to time with you. Time when I am not distracted with phone calls or emails that I need to write. I am glad to know that you will be there the moment I call on you. You are waiting on me. Thank you for giving me this verse this week, “I will wait on the Lord, my soul waits, and in your word I will put my hope.”
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Daniel 7; Daniel 8; Psalm 137; Luke 4
Scripture
Luke 4:42 “At daybreak Jesus went out to a solitary place. The people were looking for him and when they came to where he was, they tried to keep him from leaving them.”
Observation
Have you ever felt like that you just needed to get away? Jesus did. And so Jesus went out to a solitary place early in the morning. There is a lesson for us here in this verse. We need to take time to get alone with the Lord on a regular basis. Right at this very moment I feel emotionally drained. I need to get away and just spend time with the Lord. Even if it is just for a few minutes, I need to go to a solitary place.
Application
In a few moments, I am going to walk out of my office and go spend some time with God. I need my emotional gas tank refilled and the only way to do that is to spend time with him.
Prayer
Father, I am looking forward to time with you. Time when I am not distracted with phone calls or emails that I need to write. I am glad to know that you will be there the moment I call on you. You are waiting on me. Thank you for giving me this verse this week, “I will wait on the Lord, my soul waits, and in your word I will put my hope.”
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
Good News of Great Joy!
Ezekiel 47; Ezekiel 48; Luke 2
Scripture
Luke 2:8 “And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."
Observation
I guess I am always wondering why things happen the way they happen, do you do that too? Why did God choose to share the “Good News of Great Joy” of the birth of Christ to a group of lowly shepherds first? I can think of several good reasons and you can probably think of a few more. I wonder what happened to those shepherds later. Did they have the opportunity to hear Christ preach and did it cause them to remember the night of his birth? Did they later become followers/disciples of Christ?
Application
I never grow tired of reading the story of the birth of our Savior. Today I am going to have Christmas in September and think all day of the Christmas story! It sure is “Good News of Great Joy”
Prayer
Father, thank you for sending someone into my life years ago to share with me about Jesus. I do not deserve to be your child, but thank you for adopting me. I know that I am not worthy to be called your son, but thank you for allowing me to become one of your children. I am full of great joy today because I belong to you!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezekiel 47; Ezekiel 48; Luke 2
Scripture
Luke 2:8 “And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."
Observation
I guess I am always wondering why things happen the way they happen, do you do that too? Why did God choose to share the “Good News of Great Joy” of the birth of Christ to a group of lowly shepherds first? I can think of several good reasons and you can probably think of a few more. I wonder what happened to those shepherds later. Did they have the opportunity to hear Christ preach and did it cause them to remember the night of his birth? Did they later become followers/disciples of Christ?
Application
I never grow tired of reading the story of the birth of our Savior. Today I am going to have Christmas in September and think all day of the Christmas story! It sure is “Good News of Great Joy”
Prayer
Father, thank you for sending someone into my life years ago to share with me about Jesus. I do not deserve to be your child, but thank you for adopting me. I know that I am not worthy to be called your son, but thank you for allowing me to become one of your children. I am full of great joy today because I belong to you!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Monday, September 18, 2006
What Are You Facing This Morning?
Ezekiel 45; Ezekiel 46; Luke 1
Scripture
Luke 1:37 “For nothing is impossible with God."
Observation
The Angel Gabriel made a huge statement about the awesome power of God in Luke 1:37 when he says, “Nothing is impossible with God.” God did two impossible things with the two pregnancies of John the Baptist and Jesus; both were miracles! God loves doing the seemly impossible. Some things may seem impossible but God wants to show us that He is able and not only able but willing to make things happen!
Application
I have some people that I want to see saved. Luke 1:37 says to me that with God all things are possible.
Prayer
Father, help me to believe you for the impossible things in my life. Some things are impossible for me to fix, but you are more than able to handle these things. Thank you for constantly working in my life and the lives of those I am praying for.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezekiel 45; Ezekiel 46; Luke 1
Scripture
Luke 1:37 “For nothing is impossible with God."
Observation
The Angel Gabriel made a huge statement about the awesome power of God in Luke 1:37 when he says, “Nothing is impossible with God.” God did two impossible things with the two pregnancies of John the Baptist and Jesus; both were miracles! God loves doing the seemly impossible. Some things may seem impossible but God wants to show us that He is able and not only able but willing to make things happen!
Application
I have some people that I want to see saved. Luke 1:37 says to me that with God all things are possible.
Prayer
Father, help me to believe you for the impossible things in my life. Some things are impossible for me to fix, but you are more than able to handle these things. Thank you for constantly working in my life and the lives of those I am praying for.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Saturday, September 16, 2006
NEW IS GOOD!
Ezekiel 40; Ezekiel 41; Psalm 128; Revelation 21
Scripture
Revelation 21:5 “He who was seated on the throne said, "I am making everything new!"
Observation
Have you ever read the book of Psalms and saw where the Psalmist says, “Sing unto the Lord a New Song”! God likes new stuff! He loves to make things new! We on the other hand tend to like old stuff. We don’t like it when someone tries to get us to sing a new song or do something in a new way! We don’t like change. God is a God of change! He doesn’t change but we are constantly being changed into His image if we are His children! One day everything is going to be new! Won’t some folks be in for a shock!
Application
I want to be open for change. I don’t want to stay the same. I don’t want to be bitter or negative or critical or hang with people that are.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, make everything new. I think I am ready Lord. Make me ready if I am not. Help me to be open. Keep my heart soft and tender Lord. I don’t want to be bitter, critical or negative. Help me to keep my focus. Thank you for coming into my life and making me a new person!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezekiel 40; Ezekiel 41; Psalm 128; Revelation 21
Scripture
Revelation 21:5 “He who was seated on the throne said, "I am making everything new!"
Observation
Have you ever read the book of Psalms and saw where the Psalmist says, “Sing unto the Lord a New Song”! God likes new stuff! He loves to make things new! We on the other hand tend to like old stuff. We don’t like it when someone tries to get us to sing a new song or do something in a new way! We don’t like change. God is a God of change! He doesn’t change but we are constantly being changed into His image if we are His children! One day everything is going to be new! Won’t some folks be in for a shock!
Application
I want to be open for change. I don’t want to stay the same. I don’t want to be bitter or negative or critical or hang with people that are.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, make everything new. I think I am ready Lord. Make me ready if I am not. Help me to be open. Keep my heart soft and tender Lord. I don’t want to be bitter, critical or negative. Help me to keep my focus. Thank you for coming into my life and making me a new person!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Friday, September 15, 2006
The Most Important Book Ever!
Is Your Name in This Book?
Ezekiel 38; Ezekiel 39; Psalm 145; Revelation 20
Scripture
Revelation 20:14 “Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. The lake of fire is the second death. If anyone's name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire.”
Observation
One of our 7 granddaughters had her picture in a small local paper this week! Of course, Kathy and I are proud of that fact! In fact, we are very proud of all of our grandchildren and we brag about whatever they do! As neat, as it is to have one’s name or picture in a local newspaper there is one book that is way more important to have your name in! That book is mentioned in Revelation 20:15; it is the book of life.
Is your name in that book?
How can you have your name written in that book? If you are serious and really want to spend eternity in Heaven then you must place your faith and trust in Jesus Christ. You must believe that He died on the cross for your sins. You must repent! Repent means that you turn from your life of self and sin and turn to God. Ask him to forgive you and ask him to save you! My name was entered into the book of life when I gave my life to Christ at the age of 19. He has never left me and I have always had the assurance that the moment I die I will be in Heaven with Jesus.
Application
It is so easy to lose focus and forget that our primary task on planet earth as believers is to spread the Good News to all that live around us so that they will have the opportunity to have their name in the book of life. How many folks have we helped get their names in that book?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, please bring people into my life that need to hear about Jesus. Help me to stay focused on the main task and help me not be sidelined with other stuff that is not nearly as important. Thank you that my name is written in the book of life!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Is Your Name in This Book?
Ezekiel 38; Ezekiel 39; Psalm 145; Revelation 20
Scripture
Revelation 20:14 “Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. The lake of fire is the second death. If anyone's name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire.”
Observation
One of our 7 granddaughters had her picture in a small local paper this week! Of course, Kathy and I are proud of that fact! In fact, we are very proud of all of our grandchildren and we brag about whatever they do! As neat, as it is to have one’s name or picture in a local newspaper there is one book that is way more important to have your name in! That book is mentioned in Revelation 20:15; it is the book of life.
Is your name in that book?
How can you have your name written in that book? If you are serious and really want to spend eternity in Heaven then you must place your faith and trust in Jesus Christ. You must believe that He died on the cross for your sins. You must repent! Repent means that you turn from your life of self and sin and turn to God. Ask him to forgive you and ask him to save you! My name was entered into the book of life when I gave my life to Christ at the age of 19. He has never left me and I have always had the assurance that the moment I die I will be in Heaven with Jesus.
Application
It is so easy to lose focus and forget that our primary task on planet earth as believers is to spread the Good News to all that live around us so that they will have the opportunity to have their name in the book of life. How many folks have we helped get their names in that book?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, please bring people into my life that need to hear about Jesus. Help me to stay focused on the main task and help me not be sidelined with other stuff that is not nearly as important. Thank you that my name is written in the book of life!
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Thursday, September 14, 2006
KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS!
Ezekiel 36; Ezekiel 37; Psalm 110; Revelation 19
Scripture
Revelation 19:11 “I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and makes war. His eyes are like blazing fire, and on his head are many crowns. He has a name written on him that no one knows but he himself. He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and his name is the Word of God. The armies of heaven were following him, riding on white horses and dressed in fine linen, white and clean. Out of his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations. "He will rule them with an iron scepter." He treads the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God Almighty. On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written:
KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.
Observation
Our mental image of Jesus is probably that of a mild meek Jewish man that we have gotten from some artist in some book in the past. You better take a good look at this picture of Jesus in Revelation 19 because when he returns this is what he is going to look like! He is coming back as the Victorious King. He is coming back as a Warrior King ready for battle!
Application
His return will be soon! I need to focus on reaching people that do not know him while there is still time!
Prayer
Father please give me a fresh passion to share the Gospel. Bring people into my life that need to hear the Good News! Give me boldness and give me the love for people that don’t know you that live in spiritual darkness so that I can share with them! Thank you for sending someone to share the Gospel with me!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezekiel 36; Ezekiel 37; Psalm 110; Revelation 19
Scripture
Revelation 19:11 “I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and makes war. His eyes are like blazing fire, and on his head are many crowns. He has a name written on him that no one knows but he himself. He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and his name is the Word of God. The armies of heaven were following him, riding on white horses and dressed in fine linen, white and clean. Out of his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations. "He will rule them with an iron scepter." He treads the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God Almighty. On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written:
KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.
Observation
Our mental image of Jesus is probably that of a mild meek Jewish man that we have gotten from some artist in some book in the past. You better take a good look at this picture of Jesus in Revelation 19 because when he returns this is what he is going to look like! He is coming back as the Victorious King. He is coming back as a Warrior King ready for battle!
Application
His return will be soon! I need to focus on reaching people that do not know him while there is still time!
Prayer
Father please give me a fresh passion to share the Gospel. Bring people into my life that need to hear the Good News! Give me boldness and give me the love for people that don’t know you that live in spiritual darkness so that I can share with them! Thank you for sending someone to share the Gospel with me!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego
“But even if he does not, we want you to know…”
Daniel 3; Daniel 4; Psalm 81; Revelation 17
Scripture
Daniel 3:16 “Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to the king, "O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. 17 If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to save us from it, and he will rescue us from your hand, O king. 18 But even if he does not, we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up."
Observation
Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego getting thrown into the fiery furnace is one of my favorite stories in scripture. Daniel getting thrown into the lions’ den is also one of my all time favorites. It is the tremendous faith of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego that grabs my attention. King if you throw us into the blazing furnace our God is able to save us, but if he doesn’t we still will not bow down to your image or serve your gods. And of course that response was sure to get them thrown into the furnace. The neatest part of the story was when the king looked into the fiery furnace and saw four men walking around. I believe that Jesus Christ was walking around in the furnace with Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego!
Application
I will serve the Lord no matter what. Will I only have faith to trust him when things are going good or will I have the faith to trust him even when things are scorching hot?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for the stories of faith that you give us in your Word. Give me the faith of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego. Help me trust you even when I am being tested. Help me to trust you when I am in the fire. I know that you will be there with me.
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“But even if he does not, we want you to know…”
Daniel 3; Daniel 4; Psalm 81; Revelation 17
Scripture
Daniel 3:16 “Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to the king, "O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. 17 If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to save us from it, and he will rescue us from your hand, O king. 18 But even if he does not, we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up."
Observation
Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego getting thrown into the fiery furnace is one of my favorite stories in scripture. Daniel getting thrown into the lions’ den is also one of my all time favorites. It is the tremendous faith of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego that grabs my attention. King if you throw us into the blazing furnace our God is able to save us, but if he doesn’t we still will not bow down to your image or serve your gods. And of course that response was sure to get them thrown into the furnace. The neatest part of the story was when the king looked into the fiery furnace and saw four men walking around. I believe that Jesus Christ was walking around in the furnace with Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego!
Application
I will serve the Lord no matter what. Will I only have faith to trust him when things are going good or will I have the faith to trust him even when things are scorching hot?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for the stories of faith that you give us in your Word. Give me the faith of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego. Help me trust you even when I am being tested. Help me to trust you when I am in the fire. I know that you will be there with me.
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Wednesday, September 06, 2006
Then they will know that I am the Sovereign LORD!
Ezekiel 29; Ezekiel 30; Ezekiel 31; Ezekiel 32; Revelation 11
Scripture
Ezekiel 29:16 “Egypt will no longer be a source of confidence for the people of Israel but will be a reminder of their sin in turning to her for help. Then they will know that I am the Sovereign LORD.”
Observation
Ezekiel prophesized against Egypt and predicts its destruction. Their destruction will be so that they will know that the Lord is Sovereign! God uses nations for His purposes. He brings down one nation with another nation. No leader stays in power unless Sovereign God allows it. He will redeem his people even after allowing them to be taken into captivity.
Application
I think of Cuba and other nations like it where the leaders seem to be dead set against God and are so evil. Yet God has his purpose for allowing those leaders to stay in power. I don’t believe Castro will stay in power one second longer than our Sovereign God wants. The church has flourished in Cuba because of the persecution. Romans 8:28 says, “That God causes all things to work to the good of those that love him.” I have to keep reminding myself that God is sovereign and he is in control.
Prayer
Father, you bring down nations and raise up nations according to your will. You are Sovereign and worthy to be praised. May your will be done in countries like Cuba, Korea, Iran, the Sudan etc, and may many in those countries come to know you in spite of the persecution and harsh ungodly leaders.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezekiel 29; Ezekiel 30; Ezekiel 31; Ezekiel 32; Revelation 11
Scripture
Ezekiel 29:16 “Egypt will no longer be a source of confidence for the people of Israel but will be a reminder of their sin in turning to her for help. Then they will know that I am the Sovereign LORD.”
Observation
Ezekiel prophesized against Egypt and predicts its destruction. Their destruction will be so that they will know that the Lord is Sovereign! God uses nations for His purposes. He brings down one nation with another nation. No leader stays in power unless Sovereign God allows it. He will redeem his people even after allowing them to be taken into captivity.
Application
I think of Cuba and other nations like it where the leaders seem to be dead set against God and are so evil. Yet God has his purpose for allowing those leaders to stay in power. I don’t believe Castro will stay in power one second longer than our Sovereign God wants. The church has flourished in Cuba because of the persecution. Romans 8:28 says, “That God causes all things to work to the good of those that love him.” I have to keep reminding myself that God is sovereign and he is in control.
Prayer
Father, you bring down nations and raise up nations according to your will. You are Sovereign and worthy to be praised. May your will be done in countries like Cuba, Korea, Iran, the Sudan etc, and may many in those countries come to know you in spite of the persecution and harsh ungodly leaders.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
Indescribable!
Ezekiel 25; Ezekiel 26; Ezekiel 27; Ezekiel 28; Revelation 10
Scripture
Revelation 10:1 “Then I saw another mighty angel coming down from heaven. He was robed in a cloud, with a rainbow above his head; his face was like the sun, and his legs were like fiery pillars. 2He was holding a little scroll, which lay open in his hand. He planted his right foot on the sea and his left foot on the land, 3and he gave a loud shout like the roar of a lion.”
Observation
Can you visualize this Angel and the entire scene! He was robed in a cloud with a rainbow above his head and face like the sun and legs like fiery pillars. I think that John was trying to describe the indescribable!
Application
I would love to have a glimpse of Heaven like John had but I don’t want to be exiled on an island to have that opportunity. I think that I will just appreciate what John describes as we read through Revelation.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I would love to see Heaven. And today I have gotten a little glimpse. Help me to enjoy what I am seeing through the eyes of your servant John as I read Revelation. Open my eyes to new things. Open my heart to new things too.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezekiel 25; Ezekiel 26; Ezekiel 27; Ezekiel 28; Revelation 10
Scripture
Revelation 10:1 “Then I saw another mighty angel coming down from heaven. He was robed in a cloud, with a rainbow above his head; his face was like the sun, and his legs were like fiery pillars. 2He was holding a little scroll, which lay open in his hand. He planted his right foot on the sea and his left foot on the land, 3and he gave a loud shout like the roar of a lion.”
Observation
Can you visualize this Angel and the entire scene! He was robed in a cloud with a rainbow above his head and face like the sun and legs like fiery pillars. I think that John was trying to describe the indescribable!
Application
I would love to have a glimpse of Heaven like John had but I don’t want to be exiled on an island to have that opportunity. I think that I will just appreciate what John describes as we read through Revelation.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I would love to see Heaven. And today I have gotten a little glimpse. Help me to enjoy what I am seeing through the eyes of your servant John as I read Revelation. Open my eyes to new things. Open my heart to new things too.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Indescribable!
Ezekiel 25; Ezekiel 26; Ezekiel 27; Ezekiel 28; Revelation 10
Scripture
Revelation 10:1 “Then I saw another mighty angel coming down from heaven. He was robed in a cloud, with a rainbow above his head; his face was like the sun, and his legs were like fiery pillars. 2He was holding a little scroll, which lay open in his hand. He planted his right foot on the sea and his left foot on the land, 3and he gave a loud shout like the roar of a lion.”
Observation
Can you visualize this Angel and the entire scene! He was robed in a cloud with a rainbow above his head and face like the sun and legs like fiery pillars. I think that John was trying to describe the indescribable!
Application
I would love to have a glimpse of Heaven like John had but I don’t want to be exiled on an island to have that opportunity. I think that I will just appreciate what John describes as we read through Revelation.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I would love to see Heaven. And today I have gotten a little glimpse. Help me to enjoy what I am seeing through the eyes of your servant John as I read Revelation. Open my eyes to new things. Open my heart to new things too.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezekiel 25; Ezekiel 26; Ezekiel 27; Ezekiel 28; Revelation 10
Scripture
Revelation 10:1 “Then I saw another mighty angel coming down from heaven. He was robed in a cloud, with a rainbow above his head; his face was like the sun, and his legs were like fiery pillars. 2He was holding a little scroll, which lay open in his hand. He planted his right foot on the sea and his left foot on the land, 3and he gave a loud shout like the roar of a lion.”
Observation
Can you visualize this Angel and the entire scene! He was robed in a cloud with a rainbow above his head and face like the sun and legs like fiery pillars. I think that John was trying to describe the indescribable!
Application
I would love to have a glimpse of Heaven like John had but I don’t want to be exiled on an island to have that opportunity. I think that I will just appreciate what John describes as we read through Revelation.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I would love to see Heaven. And today I have gotten a little glimpse. Help me to enjoy what I am seeing through the eyes of your servant John as I read Revelation. Open my eyes to new things. Open my heart to new things too.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Indescribable!
Ezekiel 25; Ezekiel 26; Ezekiel 27; Ezekiel 28; Revelation 10
Scripture
Revelation 10:1 “Then I saw another mighty angel coming down from heaven. He was robed in a cloud, with a rainbow above his head; his face was like the sun, and his legs were like fiery pillars. 2He was holding a little scroll, which lay open in his hand. He planted his right foot on the sea and his left foot on the land, 3and he gave a loud shout like the roar of a lion.”
Observation
Can you visualize this Angel and the entire scene! He was robed in a cloud with a rainbow above his head and face like the sun and legs like fiery pillars. I think that John was trying to describe the indescribable!
Application
I would love to have a glimpse of Heaven like John had but I don’t want to be exiled on an island to have that opportunity. I think that I will just appreciate what John describes as we read through Revelation.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I would love to see Heaven. And today I have gotten a little glimpse. Help me to enjoy what I am seeing through the eyes of your servant John as I read Revelation. Open my eyes to new things. Open my heart to new things too.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezekiel 25; Ezekiel 26; Ezekiel 27; Ezekiel 28; Revelation 10
Scripture
Revelation 10:1 “Then I saw another mighty angel coming down from heaven. He was robed in a cloud, with a rainbow above his head; his face was like the sun, and his legs were like fiery pillars. 2He was holding a little scroll, which lay open in his hand. He planted his right foot on the sea and his left foot on the land, 3and he gave a loud shout like the roar of a lion.”
Observation
Can you visualize this Angel and the entire scene! He was robed in a cloud with a rainbow above his head and face like the sun and legs like fiery pillars. I think that John was trying to describe the indescribable!
Application
I would love to have a glimpse of Heaven like John had but I don’t want to be exiled on an island to have that opportunity. I think that I will just appreciate what John describes as we read through Revelation.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I would love to see Heaven. And today I have gotten a little glimpse. Help me to enjoy what I am seeing through the eyes of your servant John as I read Revelation. Open my eyes to new things. Open my heart to new things too.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Saturday, September 02, 2006
Can’t Blame Everything on Your Dad!
Ezekiel 17; Ezekiel 18; Ezekiel 19; Revelation 7
Scripture
Ezekiel 18:20 “The soul who sins is the one who will die. The son will not share the guilt of the father, nor will the father share the guilt of the son.
30 "Therefore, O house of Israel, I will judge you, each one according to his ways, declares the Sovereign LORD. Repent! Turn away from all your offenses; then sin will not be your downfall. 31 Rid yourselves of all the offenses you have committed, and get a new heart and a new spirit. Why will you die, O house of Israel? 32 For I take no pleasure in the death of anyone, declares the Sovereign LORD. Repent and live!”
Observation
My Dad never took us to church. The only time he mentioned God’s name was using it with a curse word! You would have thought that he and Jesus were on a first name basis as much as he used Jesus’ Name. I am glad that I don’t have to pay for my Dad’s sins. God doesn’t hold his life against me! The message is to all of us is “Repent and Live”! His mother was a Godly woman and she did impact my life. I believe that I am a Christian today because of my grandmother!
Application
I need to influence my grandchildren and help them walk with the Lord. I pray that they would be drawn to him and not follow the way of the world.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me continue to influence my grown children and my grandchildren. Help me to set an example of what a Christian should be. Thank you for saving my grandmother and allowing her to touch my life.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezekiel 17; Ezekiel 18; Ezekiel 19; Revelation 7
Scripture
Ezekiel 18:20 “The soul who sins is the one who will die. The son will not share the guilt of the father, nor will the father share the guilt of the son.
30 "Therefore, O house of Israel, I will judge you, each one according to his ways, declares the Sovereign LORD. Repent! Turn away from all your offenses; then sin will not be your downfall. 31 Rid yourselves of all the offenses you have committed, and get a new heart and a new spirit. Why will you die, O house of Israel? 32 For I take no pleasure in the death of anyone, declares the Sovereign LORD. Repent and live!”
Observation
My Dad never took us to church. The only time he mentioned God’s name was using it with a curse word! You would have thought that he and Jesus were on a first name basis as much as he used Jesus’ Name. I am glad that I don’t have to pay for my Dad’s sins. God doesn’t hold his life against me! The message is to all of us is “Repent and Live”! His mother was a Godly woman and she did impact my life. I believe that I am a Christian today because of my grandmother!
Application
I need to influence my grandchildren and help them walk with the Lord. I pray that they would be drawn to him and not follow the way of the world.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me continue to influence my grown children and my grandchildren. Help me to set an example of what a Christian should be. Thank you for saving my grandmother and allowing her to touch my life.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Friday, September 01, 2006
Animals in Heaven?
Ezekiel 15; Ezekiel 16; Psalm 70; Revelation 6
Scripture
Revelation 6: 4 “Then another horse came out, a fiery red one. Its rider was given power to take peace from the earth and to make men slay each other. To him was given a large sword.”
Observation
I don’t know if your pet is going to be in Heaven, but there are some horses mentioned in Revelation 6! With all the neat Bible Studies going on about Heaven I am sure that this is one of the questions asked! Pastor Rapley Armstong is convinced that we will fish in Heaven. He even has some scripture to back that claim up!
Application
Heaven is going to be an awesome place! We need to take as many people with us as we can!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I am not really worried about whether there will be animals in Heaven, but I am concerned that my children, my grandchildren, my extended family, and all my friends and neighbors know the Way!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezekiel 15; Ezekiel 16; Psalm 70; Revelation 6
Scripture
Revelation 6: 4 “Then another horse came out, a fiery red one. Its rider was given power to take peace from the earth and to make men slay each other. To him was given a large sword.”
Observation
I don’t know if your pet is going to be in Heaven, but there are some horses mentioned in Revelation 6! With all the neat Bible Studies going on about Heaven I am sure that this is one of the questions asked! Pastor Rapley Armstong is convinced that we will fish in Heaven. He even has some scripture to back that claim up!
Application
Heaven is going to be an awesome place! We need to take as many people with us as we can!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I am not really worried about whether there will be animals in Heaven, but I am concerned that my children, my grandchildren, my extended family, and all my friends and neighbors know the Way!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
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