Putting Away Childish Ways!
Judges 4; Judges 5; Psalm 39; Psalm 41; 1 Corinthians 13
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Scripture
1 Corinthians 13:11 “When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me.”
Observation
When you were a kid did you ever get mad when playing with your friends and just stomp off and go home taking your toys with you? Paul says that for kids it is the natural thing to do, but now as adults we need to stop those childish ways. We still have church members that get upset, pout up and go somewhere else to play taking their toys and family with them. They jump from one church to the other and as long as they get their way they are happy, but just let something happen that they don’t agree with and it is very easy for them to pick up their toys and go somewhere else to play.
How sad!
Plant your life in a fellowship and stick it out! You are going to have disagreements, you are going to get hurt by people, you will be disappointed sometimes, but if you hang in there you will build life long friends; and these friends will be your support through life’s most difficult times.
Application
I will re-read I Corinthians 13 one more time and think about the depth of my love for my brothers and sisters at Tampa Baptist.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for every person in our church even those people that don’t like me. In fact, Lord will you bless them extra today. Help me to hang in there with people that tend to be a pain. Help me to respond to people in a Christ-like way!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Monday, March 26, 2007
Are You Up to the Challenge!
Joshua 23; Joshua 24; Psalm 44; 1 Corinthians 11
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
1 Corinthians 11:1 “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.”
Observation
How many of us can tell people to follow our example?
Paul said, “Follow my example!” Can you say that? Can I say that? It should be the goal of our lives to live our lives in such a way that we would be examples for others to follow.
Application
What bad habits to you have that keep you from being a model for those around you? What do you need to stop doing and what do you need to start doing to be the right kind of example to the people closest to you?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me be able to say to everyone around me, “follow my example”. Reveal to me anything in my life that needs to be changed or that I need to stop doing and reveal to me habits that I need to build into my life that will help me be a better example to those around me.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Joshua 23; Joshua 24; Psalm 44; 1 Corinthians 11
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
1 Corinthians 11:1 “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.”
Observation
How many of us can tell people to follow our example?
Paul said, “Follow my example!” Can you say that? Can I say that? It should be the goal of our lives to live our lives in such a way that we would be examples for others to follow.
Application
What bad habits to you have that keep you from being a model for those around you? What do you need to stop doing and what do you need to start doing to be the right kind of example to the people closest to you?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me be able to say to everyone around me, “follow my example”. Reveal to me anything in my life that needs to be changed or that I need to stop doing and reveal to me habits that I need to build into my life that will help me be a better example to those around me.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Sunday, March 25, 2007
Does it Pass The “Glory” Test?
Joshua 21; Joshua 22; Psalm 47; 1 Corinthians 10
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
1 Corinthians 10:31 “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
Observation
Have you ever heard someone give this argument about drinking alcohol, well in the Bible the people drank wine? Drinking wine is not the real issue is it, but rather it is the motivation behind drinking the wine. Is it something that is going to bring God glory? Now if you are drinking wine as part of a Lord’s Supper celebration then yes, but if you are drinking wine for some kind of “physical high” then no! This goes for anything and everything that we do it needs to bring God glory! Does it pass the “Glory” test! Is what I am doing all about “me” or is what I am doing or about to do all about “Him”. It is an easy test for every area of our lives!
Application
What am I going to be involved in today that needs to be put to the “Glory” test!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me today make decisions based on you and what will bring you glory rather than what I like or what I want. Examine my heart today and reveal anything ugly in my heart so I can get it right with you. This is your day we will rejoice and be glad in it!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Joshua 21; Joshua 22; Psalm 47; 1 Corinthians 10
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
1 Corinthians 10:31 “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
Observation
Have you ever heard someone give this argument about drinking alcohol, well in the Bible the people drank wine? Drinking wine is not the real issue is it, but rather it is the motivation behind drinking the wine. Is it something that is going to bring God glory? Now if you are drinking wine as part of a Lord’s Supper celebration then yes, but if you are drinking wine for some kind of “physical high” then no! This goes for anything and everything that we do it needs to bring God glory! Does it pass the “Glory” test! Is what I am doing all about “me” or is what I am doing or about to do all about “Him”. It is an easy test for every area of our lives!
Application
What am I going to be involved in today that needs to be put to the “Glory” test!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me today make decisions based on you and what will bring you glory rather than what I like or what I want. Examine my heart today and reveal anything ugly in my heart so I can get it right with you. This is your day we will rejoice and be glad in it!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Friday, March 23, 2007
The Trouble With “Know It Alls”!
Joshua 15; Joshua 16; Joshua 17; 1 Corinthians 8
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
1 Corinthians 8:1-3
1 “Now about food sacrificed to idols: We know that we all possess knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up. 2 The man who thinks he knows something does not yet know as he ought to know. 3 But the man who loves God is known by God.
Observation
Have you ever encountered a “Know it All”, or maybe you are a “Know it All” they think they know everything and just want to put everyone else down. They are no fun to be around. We have people like that at work, even in our families, and yes even at church! They are arrogant and they believe that they are right and look down on anyone that disagrees with them! We will always have them and if we are not careful we could become one ourselves! The trouble with “know it alls” is that they are not teachable and you are wasting your time arguing with them. Love is different…it builds up! It edifies! It helps strengthen the body of Christ! Give me a person full of God’s love any day over the “know it all”! How about you?
Application
There was a fuss in the early church about eating food that had possibly been sacrificed to an idol. Paul lets the “know it alls” have it and teaches that we need to be considerate and loving with people that may be weaker than we are in the faith! Who needs your love today? Who can we call? Who can we encourage? Who can we help today? Today is my brother Rick’s birthday. Please pray that God will bless him today on his birthday!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me not be a “know it all” today. Help me learn from other people and show me today who I need to encourage. I want to please you today with my thoughts and with my actions.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Joshua 15; Joshua 16; Joshua 17; 1 Corinthians 8
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
1 Corinthians 8:1-3
1 “Now about food sacrificed to idols: We know that we all possess knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up. 2 The man who thinks he knows something does not yet know as he ought to know. 3 But the man who loves God is known by God.
Observation
Have you ever encountered a “Know it All”, or maybe you are a “Know it All” they think they know everything and just want to put everyone else down. They are no fun to be around. We have people like that at work, even in our families, and yes even at church! They are arrogant and they believe that they are right and look down on anyone that disagrees with them! We will always have them and if we are not careful we could become one ourselves! The trouble with “know it alls” is that they are not teachable and you are wasting your time arguing with them. Love is different…it builds up! It edifies! It helps strengthen the body of Christ! Give me a person full of God’s love any day over the “know it all”! How about you?
Application
There was a fuss in the early church about eating food that had possibly been sacrificed to an idol. Paul lets the “know it alls” have it and teaches that we need to be considerate and loving with people that may be weaker than we are in the faith! Who needs your love today? Who can we call? Who can we encourage? Who can we help today? Today is my brother Rick’s birthday. Please pray that God will bless him today on his birthday!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me not be a “know it all” today. Help me learn from other people and show me today who I need to encourage. I want to please you today with my thoughts and with my actions.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Thursday, March 22, 2007
The Time is Short!
Joshua 12; Joshua 13; Joshua 14; 1 Corinthians 7
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Scripture
1 Corinthians 7:29 …the time is short…!
Observation
Paul was talking about marriage and about whether folks should marry or not. He was discussing whether a believer married to an unbeliever should stay in the marriage and he was giving instructions based on the immorality of the times. Paul said that if you could stay single like he was that would be the best of all. Then he said that if you married it would cause more problems than if you remained single. You could serve the Lord with all your heart if you were single but if you married then you would have to also serve your spouse. Then he said, in verse 29…he said, “the time is short” and “this earth is fading away”! I wonder what Paul would say today if he was living in the United States! His statement is still true for us today, “time is short”, but I would add to his statement that we are fading away too! Our bodies are wearing out! Time is short!
Application
Time is short! What are you going to do today differently because of that fact?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me make good use of my time today. Guide my day today! Help me make it count for you!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Joshua 12; Joshua 13; Joshua 14; 1 Corinthians 7
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Scripture
1 Corinthians 7:29 …the time is short…!
Observation
Paul was talking about marriage and about whether folks should marry or not. He was discussing whether a believer married to an unbeliever should stay in the marriage and he was giving instructions based on the immorality of the times. Paul said that if you could stay single like he was that would be the best of all. Then he said that if you married it would cause more problems than if you remained single. You could serve the Lord with all your heart if you were single but if you married then you would have to also serve your spouse. Then he said, in verse 29…he said, “the time is short” and “this earth is fading away”! I wonder what Paul would say today if he was living in the United States! His statement is still true for us today, “time is short”, but I would add to his statement that we are fading away too! Our bodies are wearing out! Time is short!
Application
Time is short! What are you going to do today differently because of that fact?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me make good use of my time today. Guide my day today! Help me make it count for you!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
A Prayer So Big That it Stopped The Sun and The Moon in Their Tracks!
Joshua 9; Joshua 10; Joshua 11; 1 Corinthians 6
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Scripture
Joshua 10
12 On the day the LORD gave the Amorites over to Israel, Joshua said to the LORD in the presence of Israel:
"O sun, stand still over Gibeon,
O moon, over the Valley of Aijalon."
13 So the sun stood still,
and the moon stopped,
till the nation avenged itself on its enemies,
as it is written in the Book of Jashar.
The sun stopped in the middle of the sky and delayed going down about a full day. 14 There has never been a day like it before or since, a day when the LORD listened to a man. Surely the LORD was fighting for Israel!
Observation
I believe that it was Elijah that prayed that it wouldn’t rain for 3 years and God answered his prayer, but how about a prayer for the sun and moon to stand still! What a huge prayer! Can you imagine what the enemy thought as the day kept going and going and going! I am sure that they began praying to their gods for darkness to come so they could hide, but our God answered Joshua’s prayer. The Lord was fighting for Israel and He gave them all the daylight that they needed to defeat the enemy.
Application
Are we praying any sun and moon stopping prayers today? What is something big that you are praying for?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, give me the faith to pray like Joshua. Help me to take everything to you in prayer. In chapter 9 of Joshua the Israelites were tricked by a small nation because they did not go to you in prayer and ask you what to do. Help me have the heart to take everything to you in prayer!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Joshua 9; Joshua 10; Joshua 11; 1 Corinthians 6
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Scripture
Joshua 10
12 On the day the LORD gave the Amorites over to Israel, Joshua said to the LORD in the presence of Israel:
"O sun, stand still over Gibeon,
O moon, over the Valley of Aijalon."
13 So the sun stood still,
and the moon stopped,
till the nation avenged itself on its enemies,
as it is written in the Book of Jashar.
The sun stopped in the middle of the sky and delayed going down about a full day. 14 There has never been a day like it before or since, a day when the LORD listened to a man. Surely the LORD was fighting for Israel!
Observation
I believe that it was Elijah that prayed that it wouldn’t rain for 3 years and God answered his prayer, but how about a prayer for the sun and moon to stand still! What a huge prayer! Can you imagine what the enemy thought as the day kept going and going and going! I am sure that they began praying to their gods for darkness to come so they could hide, but our God answered Joshua’s prayer. The Lord was fighting for Israel and He gave them all the daylight that they needed to defeat the enemy.
Application
Are we praying any sun and moon stopping prayers today? What is something big that you are praying for?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, give me the faith to pray like Joshua. Help me to take everything to you in prayer. In chapter 9 of Joshua the Israelites were tricked by a small nation because they did not go to you in prayer and ask you what to do. Help me have the heart to take everything to you in prayer!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Sin In The Camp!
Joshua 7; Joshua 8; Psalm 69; 1 Corinthians 5
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Scripture
Joshua 7
19 Then Joshua said to Achan, "My son, give glory to the LORD, the God of Israel, and give him the praise. Tell me what you have done; do not hide it from me."
20 Achan replied, "It is true! I have sinned against the LORD, the God of Israel. This is what I have done: 21 When I saw in the plunder a beautiful robe from Babylonia, two hundred shekels of silver and a wedge of gold weighing fifty shekels,] I coveted them and took them. They are hidden in the ground inside my tent, with the silver underneath."
22 So Joshua sent messengers, and they ran to the tent, and there it was, hidden in his tent, with the silver underneath. 23 They took the things from the tent, brought them to Joshua and all the Israelites and spread them out before the LORD.
24 Then Joshua, together with all Israel, took Achan son of Zerah, the silver, the robe, the gold wedge, his sons and daughters, his cattle, donkeys and sheep, his tent and all that he had, to the Valley of Achor. 25 Joshua said, "Why have you brought this trouble on us? The LORD will bring trouble on you today."
Then all Israel stoned him, and after they had stoned the rest, they burned them. 26 Over Achan they heaped up a large pile of rocks, which remains to this day. Then the LORD turned from his fierce anger. Therefore that place has been called the Valley of Achor ever since.
Observation
Sin does have consequences!
Secret sins though we think no one knows, He knows. There is no such thing as a secret sin! It is amazing the damage that our sin has on the people around us. Think about Achan and his buried treasure. He took things that were supposed to be given to the Lord and he kept them. The scripture said that he looked at them and coveted them; he took them home and buried them. Hmmm…I wonder how he was feeling with his treasure safely buried inside his tent! His sin cost the lives of his entire family, plus the deaths of all the soldiers that had died in the battle against the people of Ai.
Application
Nothing is hidden from God; we may hide things from our spouses and maybe even our families but be sure that our sin will be found out! It is best to confess our sins to the Lord right now and not let them remain unconfessed. I believe that Achan could have gotten right with the Lord before God brought judgment, but he chose not to do so. How foolish!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, examine my heart today and if there is anything that is not right I want you to reveal it to me so I can have a clean heart. Show me anything in my life that is not pleasing to you so I can change it. Thank you for your Holy Spirit that lives within me and He is constantly working in my life!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Joshua 7; Joshua 8; Psalm 69; 1 Corinthians 5
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Scripture
Joshua 7
19 Then Joshua said to Achan, "My son, give glory to the LORD, the God of Israel, and give him the praise. Tell me what you have done; do not hide it from me."
20 Achan replied, "It is true! I have sinned against the LORD, the God of Israel. This is what I have done: 21 When I saw in the plunder a beautiful robe from Babylonia, two hundred shekels of silver and a wedge of gold weighing fifty shekels,] I coveted them and took them. They are hidden in the ground inside my tent, with the silver underneath."
22 So Joshua sent messengers, and they ran to the tent, and there it was, hidden in his tent, with the silver underneath. 23 They took the things from the tent, brought them to Joshua and all the Israelites and spread them out before the LORD.
24 Then Joshua, together with all Israel, took Achan son of Zerah, the silver, the robe, the gold wedge, his sons and daughters, his cattle, donkeys and sheep, his tent and all that he had, to the Valley of Achor. 25 Joshua said, "Why have you brought this trouble on us? The LORD will bring trouble on you today."
Then all Israel stoned him, and after they had stoned the rest, they burned them. 26 Over Achan they heaped up a large pile of rocks, which remains to this day. Then the LORD turned from his fierce anger. Therefore that place has been called the Valley of Achor ever since.
Observation
Sin does have consequences!
Secret sins though we think no one knows, He knows. There is no such thing as a secret sin! It is amazing the damage that our sin has on the people around us. Think about Achan and his buried treasure. He took things that were supposed to be given to the Lord and he kept them. The scripture said that he looked at them and coveted them; he took them home and buried them. Hmmm…I wonder how he was feeling with his treasure safely buried inside his tent! His sin cost the lives of his entire family, plus the deaths of all the soldiers that had died in the battle against the people of Ai.
Application
Nothing is hidden from God; we may hide things from our spouses and maybe even our families but be sure that our sin will be found out! It is best to confess our sins to the Lord right now and not let them remain unconfessed. I believe that Achan could have gotten right with the Lord before God brought judgment, but he chose not to do so. How foolish!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, examine my heart today and if there is anything that is not right I want you to reveal it to me so I can have a clean heart. Show me anything in my life that is not pleasing to you so I can change it. Thank you for your Holy Spirit that lives within me and He is constantly working in my life!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Monday, March 19, 2007
The Lord will do Amazing Things Among You!
Joshua 3; Joshua 4; Joshua 5; Joshua 6; 1 Corinthians 4
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Joshua 3:5-17
5 Joshua told the people, "Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the LORD will do amazing things among you."
6 Joshua said to the priests, "Take up the ark of the covenant and pass on ahead of the people." So they took it up and went ahead of them.
7 And the LORD said to Joshua, "Today I will begin to exalt you in the eyes of all Israel, so they may know that I am with you as I was with Moses. 8 Tell the priests who carry the ark of the covenant: 'When you reach the edge of the Jordan's waters, go and stand in the river.' "
9 Joshua said to the Israelites, "Come here and listen to the words of the LORD your God. 10 This is how you will know that the living God is among you and that he will certainly drive out before you the Canaanites, Hittites, Hivites, Perizzites, Girgashites, Amorites and Jebusites. 11 See, the ark of the covenant of the Lord of all the earth will go into the Jordan ahead of you. 12 Now then, choose twelve men from the tribes of Israel, one from each tribe. 13 And as soon as the priests who carry the ark of the LORD -the Lord of all the earth—set foot in the Jordan, its waters flowing downstream will be cut off and stand up in a heap."
14 So when the people broke camp to cross the Jordan, the priests carrying the ark of the covenant went ahead of them. 15 Now the Jordan is at flood stage all during harvest. Yet as soon as the priests who carried the ark reached the Jordan and their feet touched the water's edge, 16 the water from upstream stopped flowing. It piled up in a heap a great distance away, at a town called Adam in the vicinity of Zarethan, while the water flowing down to the Sea of the Arabah (the Salt Sea ) was completely cut off. So the people crossed over opposite Jericho. 17 The priests who carried the ark of the covenant of the LORD stood firm on dry ground in the middle of the Jordan, while all Israel passed by until the whole nation had completed the crossing on dry ground.
Observation
We serve an amazing God who wants to do amazing things in our lives. Yes, He can stop a river from flowing if He needs to, even a river at flood stage! What is your life flooded with today? God is the amazing God that cares! He is a God of Power, nothing is too hard for Him. Do you have some stuff blocking your way? Surrender your life to Him today and watch Him do amazing things in your life. He is not a God of idle words He is a God of amazing power!
Application
Pray! Consecrate yourself to the Lord today! And He will plant your feet on firm, dry ground in the midst of the flood around you.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, today I have some close friends that need to see and experience your amazing power. I pray for them and I ask you to intervene and help them. You are a God of power, amazing power and I thank you that you use that power for our good.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Joshua 3; Joshua 4; Joshua 5; Joshua 6; 1 Corinthians 4
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Joshua 3:5-17
5 Joshua told the people, "Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the LORD will do amazing things among you."
6 Joshua said to the priests, "Take up the ark of the covenant and pass on ahead of the people." So they took it up and went ahead of them.
7 And the LORD said to Joshua, "Today I will begin to exalt you in the eyes of all Israel, so they may know that I am with you as I was with Moses. 8 Tell the priests who carry the ark of the covenant: 'When you reach the edge of the Jordan's waters, go and stand in the river.' "
9 Joshua said to the Israelites, "Come here and listen to the words of the LORD your God. 10 This is how you will know that the living God is among you and that he will certainly drive out before you the Canaanites, Hittites, Hivites, Perizzites, Girgashites, Amorites and Jebusites. 11 See, the ark of the covenant of the Lord of all the earth will go into the Jordan ahead of you. 12 Now then, choose twelve men from the tribes of Israel, one from each tribe. 13 And as soon as the priests who carry the ark of the LORD -the Lord of all the earth—set foot in the Jordan, its waters flowing downstream will be cut off and stand up in a heap."
14 So when the people broke camp to cross the Jordan, the priests carrying the ark of the covenant went ahead of them. 15 Now the Jordan is at flood stage all during harvest. Yet as soon as the priests who carried the ark reached the Jordan and their feet touched the water's edge, 16 the water from upstream stopped flowing. It piled up in a heap a great distance away, at a town called Adam in the vicinity of Zarethan, while the water flowing down to the Sea of the Arabah (the Salt Sea ) was completely cut off. So the people crossed over opposite Jericho. 17 The priests who carried the ark of the covenant of the LORD stood firm on dry ground in the middle of the Jordan, while all Israel passed by until the whole nation had completed the crossing on dry ground.
Observation
We serve an amazing God who wants to do amazing things in our lives. Yes, He can stop a river from flowing if He needs to, even a river at flood stage! What is your life flooded with today? God is the amazing God that cares! He is a God of Power, nothing is too hard for Him. Do you have some stuff blocking your way? Surrender your life to Him today and watch Him do amazing things in your life. He is not a God of idle words He is a God of amazing power!
Application
Pray! Consecrate yourself to the Lord today! And He will plant your feet on firm, dry ground in the midst of the flood around you.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, today I have some close friends that need to see and experience your amazing power. I pray for them and I ask you to intervene and help them. You are a God of power, amazing power and I thank you that you use that power for our good.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Friday, March 16, 2007
What Were You Like Before You Were Saved?
Deuteronomy 30; Deuteronomy 31; Psalm 40; 1 Corinthians 1
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
1 Corinthians 1:26-31
“Brothers, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. 27 But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. 28 He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, 29 so that no one may boast before him. 30 It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. 31 Therefore, as it is written: "Let him who boasts boast in the Lord."
Observation
Do you remember what you were like before you met Christ? Paul is saying in this passage that God didn’t call influential people, he hasn’t called royalty, he hasn’t even called the smartest people, in fact, and verse 27 says that he has chosen the weak.
He has done that so we don’t try to think that it was because of our greatness that God chose us. No, He has chosen us because He wanted to do so and it had nothing to do with how intelligent, successful or good looking we were. If we are going to boast, we are going to have to boast in the Lord!
Application
God will save the people that I least expect and some that I think would be saved will not soften their hearts to the Gospel. My job is to share the Gospel with everyone.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for saving me. I pray for those in my family that they come to a personal relationship with you. Soften their hearts and help them understand the Good News.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Deuteronomy 30; Deuteronomy 31; Psalm 40; 1 Corinthians 1
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
1 Corinthians 1:26-31
“Brothers, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. 27 But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. 28 He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, 29 so that no one may boast before him. 30 It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. 31 Therefore, as it is written: "Let him who boasts boast in the Lord."
Observation
Do you remember what you were like before you met Christ? Paul is saying in this passage that God didn’t call influential people, he hasn’t called royalty, he hasn’t even called the smartest people, in fact, and verse 27 says that he has chosen the weak.
He has done that so we don’t try to think that it was because of our greatness that God chose us. No, He has chosen us because He wanted to do so and it had nothing to do with how intelligent, successful or good looking we were. If we are going to boast, we are going to have to boast in the Lord!
Application
God will save the people that I least expect and some that I think would be saved will not soften their hearts to the Gospel. My job is to share the Gospel with everyone.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for saving me. I pray for those in my family that they come to a personal relationship with you. Soften their hearts and help them understand the Good News.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Law of The Harvest!
Deuteronomy 28; Deuteronomy 29; Galatians 6
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Galatians 6:7 “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.”
Observation
When you plant a seed of corn, or some other crop you can count on several things happening. If you plant corn then you will reap corn not beans and if you plant a seed of corn you can count on (if it sprouts) receiving more than you plant. The one seed will produce a stalk of corn that will have several ears of corn each consisting of several hundred kernels. So you will reap in kind and you will reap more. There are other laws of the harvest but those two are enough for today. Here is the spiritual example: if you sow love you will reap more love than you sowed. If you sow hate or meanness you will reap back hate and meanness only you will reap a lot more than you sowed. Get the picture!
Application
Today let’s sow the right kind of things so we can have the right kind of harvest!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me apply this principle today with everyone I come in contact with. I want to reap the right kind of harvest.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Deuteronomy 28; Deuteronomy 29; Galatians 6
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Galatians 6:7 “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.”
Observation
When you plant a seed of corn, or some other crop you can count on several things happening. If you plant corn then you will reap corn not beans and if you plant a seed of corn you can count on (if it sprouts) receiving more than you plant. The one seed will produce a stalk of corn that will have several ears of corn each consisting of several hundred kernels. So you will reap in kind and you will reap more. There are other laws of the harvest but those two are enough for today. Here is the spiritual example: if you sow love you will reap more love than you sowed. If you sow hate or meanness you will reap back hate and meanness only you will reap a lot more than you sowed. Get the picture!
Application
Today let’s sow the right kind of things so we can have the right kind of harvest!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me apply this principle today with everyone I come in contact with. I want to reap the right kind of harvest.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Crucified With Christ!
Deuteronomy 16; Deuteronomy 17; Deuteronomy 18; Psalm 38; Galatians 2
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Galatians 2:20 “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”
Observation
Have you ever thought much about this verse? Paul is saying that just like Christ was crucified on the cross that his life was also nailed to the cross. He was dead. I believe that he was talking about being a living sacrifice. It is not about me; it is all about Him.
Application
Where do I need to die to self?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me be like Paul. Help me to die to self and live for Christ!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Deuteronomy 16; Deuteronomy 17; Deuteronomy 18; Psalm 38; Galatians 2
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Galatians 2:20 “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”
Observation
Have you ever thought much about this verse? Paul is saying that just like Christ was crucified on the cross that his life was also nailed to the cross. He was dead. I believe that he was talking about being a living sacrifice. It is not about me; it is all about Him.
Application
Where do I need to die to self?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me be like Paul. Help me to die to self and live for Christ!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
You are Adopted; You are Adopted!
Deuteronomy 22; Deuteronomy 23; Deuteronomy 24; Galatians 4
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Galatians 4:4-7 “But when the time arrived that was set by God the Father, God sent his Son, born among us of a woman, born under the conditions of the law so that he might redeem those of us who have been kidnapped by the law. Thus we have been set free to experience our rightful heritage. You can tell for sure that you are now fully adopted as his own children because God sent the Spirit of his Son into our lives crying out, "Papa! Father!" Doesn't that privilege of intimate conversation with God make it plain that you are not a slave, but a child? And if you are a child, you're also an heir, with complete access to the inheritance.”
Observation
When we were little my brother had very blond hair and my two sisters and myself were all brown haired. He really did look adopted. To pick at him we would chant, “you are adopted, you are adopted”! He would get furious and we would probably eventually make him cry. The idea we were conveying as we made fun of him was that he was not like us, and that he wasn’t really part of the family like we were. Now the truth of adoption is entirely different than that. Adoption gives the child or person full rights just like someone that is born into a family naturally. God loves us so much that He adopts us into his family and gives us full inheritance! In fact, unless you have been adopted into God’s family you are not going to Heaven! Heaven is only for us adopted kids! Not all the people on this earth are God’s children only those that have been adopted by Him. Have you been adopted yet?
Application
Have you been adopted? Are you enjoying all the spiritual blessings that God has provided us?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for allowing me to be one of your children. I don’t deserve it. Help me be all that you want me to be today. Thank you for giving me so much!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Deuteronomy 22; Deuteronomy 23; Deuteronomy 24; Galatians 4
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Galatians 4:4-7 “But when the time arrived that was set by God the Father, God sent his Son, born among us of a woman, born under the conditions of the law so that he might redeem those of us who have been kidnapped by the law. Thus we have been set free to experience our rightful heritage. You can tell for sure that you are now fully adopted as his own children because God sent the Spirit of his Son into our lives crying out, "Papa! Father!" Doesn't that privilege of intimate conversation with God make it plain that you are not a slave, but a child? And if you are a child, you're also an heir, with complete access to the inheritance.”
Observation
When we were little my brother had very blond hair and my two sisters and myself were all brown haired. He really did look adopted. To pick at him we would chant, “you are adopted, you are adopted”! He would get furious and we would probably eventually make him cry. The idea we were conveying as we made fun of him was that he was not like us, and that he wasn’t really part of the family like we were. Now the truth of adoption is entirely different than that. Adoption gives the child or person full rights just like someone that is born into a family naturally. God loves us so much that He adopts us into his family and gives us full inheritance! In fact, unless you have been adopted into God’s family you are not going to Heaven! Heaven is only for us adopted kids! Not all the people on this earth are God’s children only those that have been adopted by Him. Have you been adopted yet?
Application
Have you been adopted? Are you enjoying all the spiritual blessings that God has provided us?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for allowing me to be one of your children. I don’t deserve it. Help me be all that you want me to be today. Thank you for giving me so much!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Monday, March 12, 2007
Severe Cure for a Rebellious Child!
Deuteronomy 19; Deuteronomy 20; Deuteronomy 21; Galatians 3
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
A Rebellious Son
Deuteronomy 21:18 If a man has a stubborn and rebellious son who does not obey his father and mother and will not listen to them when they discipline him, 19 his father and mother shall take hold of him and bring him to the elders at the gate of his town. 20 They shall say to the elders, "This son of ours is stubborn and rebellious. He will not obey us. He is a profligate and a drunkard." 21 Then all the men of his town shall stone him to death. You must purge the evil from among you. All Israel will hear of it and be afraid.
Observation
I wonder how many parents actually took their rebellious child out and had the elders stone them to death. I can hear parents now using that threat and I believe that any child would have straightened up after just one warning. Straighten up or we are going to the elders. If you had a rock in your hands as you warned them I believe they would have got the message. It is so different today isn’t it.
Application
All of us tend to be rebellious against God and God warns us that there are severe consequences to our rebellion. Repent! Turn to God!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I pray for those that are dealing with rebellious children. It breaks my heart that those very close to me are not walking with you. I pray that I will live to see them in a right relationship with you. They will never know your joy unless they repent and put you first!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Deuteronomy 19; Deuteronomy 20; Deuteronomy 21; Galatians 3
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
A Rebellious Son
Deuteronomy 21:18 If a man has a stubborn and rebellious son who does not obey his father and mother and will not listen to them when they discipline him, 19 his father and mother shall take hold of him and bring him to the elders at the gate of his town. 20 They shall say to the elders, "This son of ours is stubborn and rebellious. He will not obey us. He is a profligate and a drunkard." 21 Then all the men of his town shall stone him to death. You must purge the evil from among you. All Israel will hear of it and be afraid.
Observation
I wonder how many parents actually took their rebellious child out and had the elders stone them to death. I can hear parents now using that threat and I believe that any child would have straightened up after just one warning. Straighten up or we are going to the elders. If you had a rock in your hands as you warned them I believe they would have got the message. It is so different today isn’t it.
Application
All of us tend to be rebellious against God and God warns us that there are severe consequences to our rebellion. Repent! Turn to God!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I pray for those that are dealing with rebellious children. It breaks my heart that those very close to me are not walking with you. I pray that I will live to see them in a right relationship with you. They will never know your joy unless they repent and put you first!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Thursday, March 08, 2007
The Danger of Forgetfulness!
Deuteronomy 7; Deuteronomy 8; Deuteronomy 9; Mark 15
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Do Not Forget the LORD
Deuteronomy 8: 1-5
1 Be careful to follow every command I am giving you today, so that you may live and increase and may enter and possess the land that the LORD promised on oath to your forefathers. 2 Remember how the LORD your God led you all the way in the desert these forty years, to humble you and to test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep his commands. 3 He humbled you, causing you to hunger and then feeding you with manna, which neither you nor your fathers had known, to teach you that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the LORD. 4 Your clothes did not wear out and your feet did not swell during these forty years. 5 Know then in your heart that as a man disciplines his son, so the LORD your God disciplines you.
Observation
Moses was reminding the children of Israel how God had protected them, and how God had provided for them for the past forty years. He humbled them by providing their food everyday. He made their clothes and sandals to last for forty years. He reminded them of their rebellious nature and warned them not to forget all the things that the Lord had done for them and that He would continue to do for them if they would just remember to keep Him their top priority.
Application
God wants to bless us today, but we need to be obedient. The moment we move into disobedience that is the very moment when we no longer receive the benefits of our relationship with him. If want His blessings then we have to keep Him number one in our lives.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to think more about you and more about your kingdom than anything else. Help me walk with you in obedience. I want to hear your voice and I want you to guide me in the direction that you want me to go. Help me not be like the children of Israel who could not learn the lesson of obedience.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Deuteronomy 7; Deuteronomy 8; Deuteronomy 9; Mark 15
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Do Not Forget the LORD
Deuteronomy 8: 1-5
1 Be careful to follow every command I am giving you today, so that you may live and increase and may enter and possess the land that the LORD promised on oath to your forefathers. 2 Remember how the LORD your God led you all the way in the desert these forty years, to humble you and to test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep his commands. 3 He humbled you, causing you to hunger and then feeding you with manna, which neither you nor your fathers had known, to teach you that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the LORD. 4 Your clothes did not wear out and your feet did not swell during these forty years. 5 Know then in your heart that as a man disciplines his son, so the LORD your God disciplines you.
Observation
Moses was reminding the children of Israel how God had protected them, and how God had provided for them for the past forty years. He humbled them by providing their food everyday. He made their clothes and sandals to last for forty years. He reminded them of their rebellious nature and warned them not to forget all the things that the Lord had done for them and that He would continue to do for them if they would just remember to keep Him their top priority.
Application
God wants to bless us today, but we need to be obedient. The moment we move into disobedience that is the very moment when we no longer receive the benefits of our relationship with him. If want His blessings then we have to keep Him number one in our lives.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to think more about you and more about your kingdom than anything else. Help me walk with you in obedience. I want to hear your voice and I want you to guide me in the direction that you want me to go. Help me not be like the children of Israel who could not learn the lesson of obedience.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
Extravagant Love!
Deuteronomy 5; Deuteronomy 6; Psalm 43;
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Jesus Anointed at Bethany
Mark 14:1-9
1 Now the Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread were only two days away, and the chief priests and the teachers of the law were looking for some sly way to arrest Jesus and kill him. 2 "But not during the Feast," they said, "or the people may riot."
3 While he was in Bethany, reclining at the table in the home of a man known as Simon the Leper, a woman came with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, made of pure nard. She broke the jar and poured the perfume on his head.
4 Some of those present were saying indignantly to one another, "Why this waste of perfume? 5 It could have been sold for more than a year's wages and the money given to the poor." And they rebuked her harshly.
6 "Leave her alone," said Jesus. "Why are you bothering her? She has done a beautiful thing to me. 7 The poor you will always have with you, and you can help them any time you want. But you will not always have me. 8 She did what she could. She poured perfume on my body beforehand to prepare for my burial. 9 I tell you the truth, wherever the gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her."
Observation
Can you imagine someone taking something so valuable like the perfume mentioned in this story and pouring it all out all over someone as an act of worship? A year’s wages worth of perfume used in one moment of extreme, extravagant love. What compelled her to do that? I believe that she did it because she had received from Jesus, his extravagant and wonderful grace and mercy! She had been set free from a live of sin and destruction and she returned the favor by doing what she could to show her gratitude! She was criticized, and people today that worship with a little more expression and emotion are often criticized as well. Some things never change do they!
Application
What can I do today to show my love for God and for what Jesus did on the cross? Where can I be extravagant towards God?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I love you with all my heart. Search my heart and my mind and show me anything that I need to confess or turn from. Help me to be passionate about the calling that you have given me. Help me to be extravagant in my love for others and in my love for you. You are wonderful and worthy to be praised!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Deuteronomy 5; Deuteronomy 6; Psalm 43;
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Jesus Anointed at Bethany
Mark 14:1-9
1 Now the Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread were only two days away, and the chief priests and the teachers of the law were looking for some sly way to arrest Jesus and kill him. 2 "But not during the Feast," they said, "or the people may riot."
3 While he was in Bethany, reclining at the table in the home of a man known as Simon the Leper, a woman came with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, made of pure nard. She broke the jar and poured the perfume on his head.
4 Some of those present were saying indignantly to one another, "Why this waste of perfume? 5 It could have been sold for more than a year's wages and the money given to the poor." And they rebuked her harshly.
6 "Leave her alone," said Jesus. "Why are you bothering her? She has done a beautiful thing to me. 7 The poor you will always have with you, and you can help them any time you want. But you will not always have me. 8 She did what she could. She poured perfume on my body beforehand to prepare for my burial. 9 I tell you the truth, wherever the gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her."
Observation
Can you imagine someone taking something so valuable like the perfume mentioned in this story and pouring it all out all over someone as an act of worship? A year’s wages worth of perfume used in one moment of extreme, extravagant love. What compelled her to do that? I believe that she did it because she had received from Jesus, his extravagant and wonderful grace and mercy! She had been set free from a live of sin and destruction and she returned the favor by doing what she could to show her gratitude! She was criticized, and people today that worship with a little more expression and emotion are often criticized as well. Some things never change do they!
Application
What can I do today to show my love for God and for what Jesus did on the cross? Where can I be extravagant towards God?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I love you with all my heart. Search my heart and my mind and show me anything that I need to confess or turn from. Help me to be passionate about the calling that you have given me. Help me to be extravagant in my love for others and in my love for you. You are wonderful and worthy to be praised!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Tuesday, March 06, 2007
Urgency of the Gospel!
Deuteronomy 3; Deuteronomy 4; Psalm 36; Mark 13
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Mark 13:10 “And the gospel must first be preached to all nations.”
Observation
Yesterday afternoon I was asked to go to the hospital to visit a neighbor of a church member. The church member had given the man a Gospel tract, but felt that the man was probably still lost. When I got to the hospital and called in to the nurse’s station in CSU the nurse that had been caring for the man told me that the man had just died about an hour before. There is urgency to the Gospel! Every people group must hear the Gospel before the return of Christ. The word “must” lets us know that the task is an urgent one! This past weekend the churches in our city had the opportunity to preach the Gospel to huge crowds and many made decisions for Christ!
Application
Who around me needs to hear the Gospel? I will be looking for those that Christ has prepared and that Christ brings into my path.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, you want this world to know you. There is urgency to the Gospel message because people are dying without knowing you personally. Help me be obedient in sharing about Jesus.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Deuteronomy 3; Deuteronomy 4; Psalm 36; Mark 13
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Mark 13:10 “And the gospel must first be preached to all nations.”
Observation
Yesterday afternoon I was asked to go to the hospital to visit a neighbor of a church member. The church member had given the man a Gospel tract, but felt that the man was probably still lost. When I got to the hospital and called in to the nurse’s station in CSU the nurse that had been caring for the man told me that the man had just died about an hour before. There is urgency to the Gospel! Every people group must hear the Gospel before the return of Christ. The word “must” lets us know that the task is an urgent one! This past weekend the churches in our city had the opportunity to preach the Gospel to huge crowds and many made decisions for Christ!
Application
Who around me needs to hear the Gospel? I will be looking for those that Christ has prepared and that Christ brings into my path.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, you want this world to know you. There is urgency to the Gospel message because people are dying without knowing you personally. Help me be obedient in sharing about Jesus.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Monday, March 05, 2007
Not Far From the Kingdom of God…!
Deuteronomy 1; Deuteronomy 2; Mark 12
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
The Greatest Commandment
Mark 12:28-34
28 One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him, "Of all the commandments, which is the most important?"
29 "The most important one," answered Jesus, "is this: 'Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. 31 The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these."
32 "Well said, teacher," the man replied. "You are right in saying that God is one and there is no other but him. 33 To love him with all your heart, with all your understanding and with all your strength, and to love your neighbor as yourself is more important than all burnt offerings and sacrifices."
34 When Jesus saw that he had answered wisely, he said to him, "You are not far from the kingdom of God." And from then on no one dared ask him any more questions.
Observation
Jesus said to this teacher of the law, “You are not far from the kingdom of God.” I believe that he was probably just missing heaven by 18” and that is pretty close. Someone has said that it is about 18” from your brain to your heart. This teacher had the right answers but had not acted on them yet. Faith is an action word. There is a huge difference in believing in your head and believing with your heart. In fact, there is an eternal difference. This man’s head knowledge was not saving him, he needed to act on the knowledge that he had.
Application
How close are you to Heaven?
This past weekend several thousand people took the Good News of Jesus Christ and acted on it. They placed their faith; they placed their trust in what Jesus did for them on the cross. The Luis Palau Tampa Bay Festival gave people the opportunity to move from head knowledge to a changed heart! Have you placed your faith and trust in Jesus Christ yet?
What are you waiting on?
Give Him your life today!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for every person that came to know you yesterday. Thank you for every volunteer that served in the festival. May many people come to Christ during the weeks ahead as churches follow up the decisions that were made. You are a Wonderful Heavenly Father!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Deuteronomy 1; Deuteronomy 2; Mark 12
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
The Greatest Commandment
Mark 12:28-34
28 One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him, "Of all the commandments, which is the most important?"
29 "The most important one," answered Jesus, "is this: 'Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. 31 The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these."
32 "Well said, teacher," the man replied. "You are right in saying that God is one and there is no other but him. 33 To love him with all your heart, with all your understanding and with all your strength, and to love your neighbor as yourself is more important than all burnt offerings and sacrifices."
34 When Jesus saw that he had answered wisely, he said to him, "You are not far from the kingdom of God." And from then on no one dared ask him any more questions.
Observation
Jesus said to this teacher of the law, “You are not far from the kingdom of God.” I believe that he was probably just missing heaven by 18” and that is pretty close. Someone has said that it is about 18” from your brain to your heart. This teacher had the right answers but had not acted on them yet. Faith is an action word. There is a huge difference in believing in your head and believing with your heart. In fact, there is an eternal difference. This man’s head knowledge was not saving him, he needed to act on the knowledge that he had.
Application
How close are you to Heaven?
This past weekend several thousand people took the Good News of Jesus Christ and acted on it. They placed their faith; they placed their trust in what Jesus did for them on the cross. The Luis Palau Tampa Bay Festival gave people the opportunity to move from head knowledge to a changed heart! Have you placed your faith and trust in Jesus Christ yet?
What are you waiting on?
Give Him your life today!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for every person that came to know you yesterday. Thank you for every volunteer that served in the festival. May many people come to Christ during the weeks ahead as churches follow up the decisions that were made. You are a Wonderful Heavenly Father!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Saturday, March 03, 2007
Rich…What’s the Problem!
Numbers 32; Numbers 33; Mark 10
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
The Rich Young Man
Mark 10:17-22 As Jesus started on his way, a man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him. "Good teacher," he asked, "what must I do to inherit eternal life?"
18 "Why do you call me good?" Jesus answered. "No one is good—except God alone. 19 You know the commandments: 'Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, do not defraud, honor your father and mother."
20 "Teacher," he declared, "all these I have kept since I was a boy."
21 Jesus looked at him and loved him. "One thing you lack," he said. "Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me."
22 At this the man's face fell. He went away sad, because he had great wealth.
Observation
We are the richest country in the world. We are all very rich! What are we doing with our wealth? Are we consuming it on ourselves? Jesus looked at this rich young man and the scriptures state that Jesus loved him. I wonder how long he looked at the young man before he said, “Go, sell everything!” One of the saddest verses in the Bible is Mark 10:22 “At this the man’s face fell. He went away sad, because he had great wealth.”
Application
What is God leading you to do in the area of giving? We are rich! How much are we spending on ourselves and how much are we giving away!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I know that you are speaking to me in this area of giving. I want to please you and I want to trust you with everything that I have. Help me to hear your voice and know when to give and how much. Help me not to be selfish. It all belongs to you!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Numbers 32; Numbers 33; Mark 10
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
The Rich Young Man
Mark 10:17-22 As Jesus started on his way, a man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him. "Good teacher," he asked, "what must I do to inherit eternal life?"
18 "Why do you call me good?" Jesus answered. "No one is good—except God alone. 19 You know the commandments: 'Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, do not defraud, honor your father and mother."
20 "Teacher," he declared, "all these I have kept since I was a boy."
21 Jesus looked at him and loved him. "One thing you lack," he said. "Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me."
22 At this the man's face fell. He went away sad, because he had great wealth.
Observation
We are the richest country in the world. We are all very rich! What are we doing with our wealth? Are we consuming it on ourselves? Jesus looked at this rich young man and the scriptures state that Jesus loved him. I wonder how long he looked at the young man before he said, “Go, sell everything!” One of the saddest verses in the Bible is Mark 10:22 “At this the man’s face fell. He went away sad, because he had great wealth.”
Application
What is God leading you to do in the area of giving? We are rich! How much are we spending on ourselves and how much are we giving away!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I know that you are speaking to me in this area of giving. I want to please you and I want to trust you with everything that I have. Help me to hear your voice and know when to give and how much. Help me not to be selfish. It all belongs to you!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Friday, March 02, 2007
Who is The Greatest?
Numbers 30; Numbers 31; Mark 9
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Who is Greatest?
Mark 9:33-37
33 They came to Capernaum. When he was in the house, he asked them, "What were you arguing about on the road?" 34 But they kept quiet because on the way they had argued about who was the greatest.
35 Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, "If anyone wants to be first, he must be the very last, and the servant of all."
36 He took a little child and had him stand among them. Taking him in his arms, he said to them, 37 "Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me."
Observation
Who is the greatest? Did you ever play king of the mountain when you were a kid? Everybody wants to be the king! When our R.A. boys line up at church to be able to go out on the playground you should see them scramble for the first place in line. They all want to be leader! Adults tend to do the same thing! Have you ever watched people at a potluck dinner line up? Some people always seem to be up at the first of the line. There are people that always want to be chairman, president or leader, but they want the position because it is a position that puts them at the top. Jesus said, “If anyone wants to be first, he must be the very last, and the servant of all." If you want to be great in God’s eyes then you have to practice being a “servant”. It means letting others go first, letting others lead, and letting others get the praise!
Application
Ask God today to give you a servant’s heart!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me be more interested in the needs of others and less interested in my own needs and wants. Show me how to serve as I go through this day. Point out to me the people I need to help.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Numbers 30; Numbers 31; Mark 9
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Who is Greatest?
Mark 9:33-37
33 They came to Capernaum. When he was in the house, he asked them, "What were you arguing about on the road?" 34 But they kept quiet because on the way they had argued about who was the greatest.
35 Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, "If anyone wants to be first, he must be the very last, and the servant of all."
36 He took a little child and had him stand among them. Taking him in his arms, he said to them, 37 "Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me."
Observation
Who is the greatest? Did you ever play king of the mountain when you were a kid? Everybody wants to be the king! When our R.A. boys line up at church to be able to go out on the playground you should see them scramble for the first place in line. They all want to be leader! Adults tend to do the same thing! Have you ever watched people at a potluck dinner line up? Some people always seem to be up at the first of the line. There are people that always want to be chairman, president or leader, but they want the position because it is a position that puts them at the top. Jesus said, “If anyone wants to be first, he must be the very last, and the servant of all." If you want to be great in God’s eyes then you have to practice being a “servant”. It means letting others go first, letting others lead, and letting others get the praise!
Application
Ask God today to give you a servant’s heart!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me be more interested in the needs of others and less interested in my own needs and wants. Show me how to serve as I go through this day. Point out to me the people I need to help.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)