Do You Ever Wonder?
Ezra 4; Psalm 113; Psalm 127; Luke 9
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Luke 9
32 Peter and the others had fallen asleep. When they woke up, they saw Jesus’ glory and the two men standing with him. 33 As Moses and Elijah were starting to leave, Peter, not even knowing what he was saying, blurted out, “Master, it’s wonderful for us to be here! Let’s make three shelters as memorials—one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” 34 But even as he was saying this, a cloud overshadowed them, and terror gripped them as the cloud covered them.
Observation
Do you ever read a passage of scripture and then stop to take a minute to ponder it or a minute to wonder about it? This is one of those passages for me I am just awed by it. To think that Moses and Elijah came down from Heaven to talk with Jesus about His future exodus from this earth - doesn’t that blow you away? God didn’t send His Angel Gabriel or Michael, no He sent guys just like you and me back to encourage Jesus. I wonder what they talked about! They may have talked about the stuff that they were busy doing in Heaven before Jesus left Heaven to come down to earth to give His life as a sacrifice for us. It wasn’t David or Abraham or Noah that came down from Heaven it was Moses and Elijah. I wonder why?
Peter was so awe struck by the whole thing that he didn’t know what to say or do! One day we will be able to talk with guys like Moses and Elijah and yes one day we will talk with Jesus like they did face to face. I can’t wait!
Application
I want to live my life in such a way that Jesus could call on me like He did Moses and Elijah.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me live my life in a way that is pleasing to you. Help me to be a man of faith like Elijah and a strong leader like Moses.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Friday, September 26, 2008
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Where is Your Faith?
Ezra 2; Ezra 3; Luke 8
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Luke 8
Jesus Calms the Storm
22 One day Jesus said to his disciples, “Let’s cross to the other side of the lake.” So they got into a boat and started out. 23 As they sailed across, Jesus settled down for a nap. But soon a fierce storm came down on the lake. The boat was filling with water, and they were in real danger.
24 The disciples went and woke him up, shouting, “Master, Master, we’re going to drown!”
When Jesus woke up, he rebuked the wind and the raging waves. Suddenly the storm stopped and all was calm. 25 Then he asked them, “Where is your faith?”
The disciples were terrified and amazed. “Who is this man?” they asked each other. “When he gives a command, even the wind and waves obey him!”
Observation
Where is your faith? I think that is what the Lord has been asking me lately. How about you? It seems that everything is so overwhelming, the war, our country’s financial situation, the struggle to see our church grow, and at every turn it seems like the Lord is saying to me, “Where is your faith?”
“Faithful is He who has called you who will also do it!” Period – end of story! “Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” He can handle whatever storm that comes into our lives. Period.
Application
I am placing my faith back into the hands of the One who calms the sea! How about you?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, this story is a good reminder for me that faith needs to be firmly placed in the One that is above all the impossible circumstances that may surround me today. I am again reminded that “nothing is too hard for You.” NOTHING. You are all powerful and storms of any kind are nothing for you to calm. Calm my heart this morning. Help me trust in Your Powerful Name.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezra 2; Ezra 3; Luke 8
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Luke 8
Jesus Calms the Storm
22 One day Jesus said to his disciples, “Let’s cross to the other side of the lake.” So they got into a boat and started out. 23 As they sailed across, Jesus settled down for a nap. But soon a fierce storm came down on the lake. The boat was filling with water, and they were in real danger.
24 The disciples went and woke him up, shouting, “Master, Master, we’re going to drown!”
When Jesus woke up, he rebuked the wind and the raging waves. Suddenly the storm stopped and all was calm. 25 Then he asked them, “Where is your faith?”
The disciples were terrified and amazed. “Who is this man?” they asked each other. “When he gives a command, even the wind and waves obey him!”
Observation
Where is your faith? I think that is what the Lord has been asking me lately. How about you? It seems that everything is so overwhelming, the war, our country’s financial situation, the struggle to see our church grow, and at every turn it seems like the Lord is saying to me, “Where is your faith?”
“Faithful is He who has called you who will also do it!” Period – end of story! “Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” He can handle whatever storm that comes into our lives. Period.
Application
I am placing my faith back into the hands of the One who calms the sea! How about you?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, this story is a good reminder for me that faith needs to be firmly placed in the One that is above all the impossible circumstances that may surround me today. I am again reminded that “nothing is too hard for You.” NOTHING. You are all powerful and storms of any kind are nothing for you to calm. Calm my heart this morning. Help me trust in Your Powerful Name.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Who Is This Man That Goes Around Forgiving Sins … His Name is Jesus!
Ezra 1; Psalm 84; Psalm 85; Luke 7
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Luke 7
Jesus Anointed by a Sinful Woman
36 One of the Pharisees asked Jesus to have dinner with him, so Jesus went to his home and sat down to eat. 37 When a certain immoral woman from that city heard he was eating there, she brought a beautiful alabaster jar filled with expensive perfume. 38 Then she knelt behind him at his feet, weeping. Her tears fell on his feet, and she wiped them off with her hair. Then she kept kissing his feet and putting perfume on them.
39 When the Pharisee who had invited him saw this, he said to himself, “If this man were a prophet, he would know what kind of woman is touching him. She’s a sinner!”
40 Then Jesus answered his thoughts. “Simon,” he said to the Pharisee, “I have something to say to you.”
“Go ahead, Teacher,” Simon replied.
41 Then Jesus told him this story: “A man loaned money to two people—500 pieces of silver to one and 50 pieces to the other. 42 But neither of them could repay him, so he kindly forgave them both, canceling their debts. Who do you suppose loved him more after that?”
43 Simon answered, “I suppose the one for whom he canceled the larger debt.”
“That’s right,” Jesus said. 44 Then he turned to the woman and said to Simon, “Look at this woman kneeling here. When I entered your home, you didn’t offer me water to wash the dust from my feet, but she has washed them with her tears and wiped them with her hair. 45 You didn’t greet me with a kiss, but from the time I first came in, she has not stopped kissing my feet. 46 You neglected the courtesy of olive oil to anoint my head, but she has anointed my feet with rare perfume.
47 “I tell you, her sins—and they are many—have been forgiven, so she has shown me much love. But a person who is forgiven little shows only little love.” 48 Then Jesus said to the woman, “Your sins are forgiven.”
49 The men at the table said among themselves, “Who is this man, that he goes around forgiving sins?”
50 And Jesus said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”
Observation
Have you ever noticed how much of the Gospels involves Jesus and his encounters with the Pharisees? This story is centered around a meal at the home of a Pharisee and Jesus was one of the invited guests. I say that He was one of the invited guests because from the conversation that we have between Jesus and the one that had invited Him we can see that the Pharisees didn’t go out of his way to make Jesus feel special. In fact Jesus contrasted the way He was treated by the sinful woman that had been washing His feet to the lack of attention of the person that had invited Jesus to his home.
Evidently this Pharisee named Simon had invited Jesus to his home either just to trick Jesus or maybe because it was a way for him to get attention for himself, but it wasn’t out of any love for Jesus. And Jesus nailed him and the other Pharisees at the meal with the story of a man that had canceled the debts of two men, one that had a small debt and the other that had a very large debt and Jesus nailed them with this question, “who do you think loved that man more after he canceled their debts?” The Pharisee saw that he was being compared or contrasted to the sinful woman and Simon nor the other Pharisees liked what Jesus showed them about themselves.
And Jesus is still going around forgiving sins even today!
Application
I will be open to sharing about “His Forgiveness” with someone today.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for forgiving me of my sins. Help me not to be like the Pharisees in today’s passage. I pray that you direct me to someone that needs to hear about Your Forgiveness. Thank you for all the students that came to pray this morning at “See You at the Pole” both at our academy and at every school around our country. I thank you for their courage and their commitment to You.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezra 1; Psalm 84; Psalm 85; Luke 7
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Luke 7
Jesus Anointed by a Sinful Woman
36 One of the Pharisees asked Jesus to have dinner with him, so Jesus went to his home and sat down to eat. 37 When a certain immoral woman from that city heard he was eating there, she brought a beautiful alabaster jar filled with expensive perfume. 38 Then she knelt behind him at his feet, weeping. Her tears fell on his feet, and she wiped them off with her hair. Then she kept kissing his feet and putting perfume on them.
39 When the Pharisee who had invited him saw this, he said to himself, “If this man were a prophet, he would know what kind of woman is touching him. She’s a sinner!”
40 Then Jesus answered his thoughts. “Simon,” he said to the Pharisee, “I have something to say to you.”
“Go ahead, Teacher,” Simon replied.
41 Then Jesus told him this story: “A man loaned money to two people—500 pieces of silver to one and 50 pieces to the other. 42 But neither of them could repay him, so he kindly forgave them both, canceling their debts. Who do you suppose loved him more after that?”
43 Simon answered, “I suppose the one for whom he canceled the larger debt.”
“That’s right,” Jesus said. 44 Then he turned to the woman and said to Simon, “Look at this woman kneeling here. When I entered your home, you didn’t offer me water to wash the dust from my feet, but she has washed them with her tears and wiped them with her hair. 45 You didn’t greet me with a kiss, but from the time I first came in, she has not stopped kissing my feet. 46 You neglected the courtesy of olive oil to anoint my head, but she has anointed my feet with rare perfume.
47 “I tell you, her sins—and they are many—have been forgiven, so she has shown me much love. But a person who is forgiven little shows only little love.” 48 Then Jesus said to the woman, “Your sins are forgiven.”
49 The men at the table said among themselves, “Who is this man, that he goes around forgiving sins?”
50 And Jesus said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”
Observation
Have you ever noticed how much of the Gospels involves Jesus and his encounters with the Pharisees? This story is centered around a meal at the home of a Pharisee and Jesus was one of the invited guests. I say that He was one of the invited guests because from the conversation that we have between Jesus and the one that had invited Him we can see that the Pharisees didn’t go out of his way to make Jesus feel special. In fact Jesus contrasted the way He was treated by the sinful woman that had been washing His feet to the lack of attention of the person that had invited Jesus to his home.
Evidently this Pharisee named Simon had invited Jesus to his home either just to trick Jesus or maybe because it was a way for him to get attention for himself, but it wasn’t out of any love for Jesus. And Jesus nailed him and the other Pharisees at the meal with the story of a man that had canceled the debts of two men, one that had a small debt and the other that had a very large debt and Jesus nailed them with this question, “who do you think loved that man more after he canceled their debts?” The Pharisee saw that he was being compared or contrasted to the sinful woman and Simon nor the other Pharisees liked what Jesus showed them about themselves.
And Jesus is still going around forgiving sins even today!
Application
I will be open to sharing about “His Forgiveness” with someone today.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for forgiving me of my sins. Help me not to be like the Pharisees in today’s passage. I pray that you direct me to someone that needs to hear about Your Forgiveness. Thank you for all the students that came to pray this morning at “See You at the Pole” both at our academy and at every school around our country. I thank you for their courage and their commitment to You.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
The Law of Giving and Receiving!
Daniel 11; Daniel 12; Luke 6
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Luke 6
38 Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full—pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap. The amount you give will determine the amount you get back.”
Observation
Do you want to receive then the answer is to give. The more you give the more you receive. It is true you cannot out give God. This verse is amazing. The principle taught by Jesus is that the more generous you are with what you have the more you will have. You would think that the more you hoard then the more you would have but that is not true from what Jesus has said.
If the Lord puts it on your heart to give then give so He can bless you with more. He wants to use you to bless others and He can do that with people that are generous. This is a lesson that I am still learning because I definitely don’t have the gift of giving like others do.
Application
I will look for opportunities to give today. How about you?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me be generous. You have blessed me with so much. Help me be sensitive to the needs around me today. In Jesus Name Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Daniel 11; Daniel 12; Luke 6
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Luke 6
38 Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full—pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap. The amount you give will determine the amount you get back.”
Observation
Do you want to receive then the answer is to give. The more you give the more you receive. It is true you cannot out give God. This verse is amazing. The principle taught by Jesus is that the more generous you are with what you have the more you will have. You would think that the more you hoard then the more you would have but that is not true from what Jesus has said.
If the Lord puts it on your heart to give then give so He can bless you with more. He wants to use you to bless others and He can do that with people that are generous. This is a lesson that I am still learning because I definitely don’t have the gift of giving like others do.
Application
I will look for opportunities to give today. How about you?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me be generous. You have blessed me with so much. Help me be sensitive to the needs around me today. In Jesus Name Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Monday, September 22, 2008
Only God Can Forgive Sins!
Daniel 9; Daniel 10; Psalm 123; Luke 5
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Luke 5
18 Some men came carrying a paralyzed man on a sleeping mat. They tried to take him inside to Jesus, 19 but they couldn’t reach him because of the crowd. So they went up to the roof and took off some tiles. Then they lowered the sick man on his mat down into the crowd, right in front of Jesus. 20 Seeing their faith, Jesus said to the man, “Young man, your sins are forgiven.”
21 But the Pharisees and teachers of religious law said to themselves, “Who does he think he is? That’s blasphemy! Only God can forgive sins!”
22 Jesus knew what they were thinking, so he asked them, “Why do you question this in your hearts? 23 Is it easier to say ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or ‘Stand up and walk’? 24 So I will prove to you that the Son of Man has the authority on earth to forgive sins.” Then Jesus turned to the paralyzed man and said, “Stand up, pick up your mat, and go home!”
25 And immediately, as everyone watched, the man jumped up, picked up his mat, and went home praising God. 26 Everyone was gripped with great wonder and awe, and they praised God, exclaiming, “We have seen amazing things today!”
Observation
The Pharisees knew that only God could forgive sins and they knew that Jesus was claiming to be God. Today some people still want to say that Jesus was a good teacher, but not God. Some things never change!
I was 19 years old when I understood that Jesus was God and He could forgive me of my sins. I accepted Him as my Lord and my Savior. I am forgiven. Not because I deserve it, but because it was something that Jesus did out of mercy for me. He will do the same thing for you.
Are your sins forgiven?
Application
I will be ready to share the Good News with someone this week to let him or her know that Jesus is ready to forgive them of their sins.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for saving me. I pray that you bring someone into my life that needs to experience your forgiveness and is willing to hear the Gospel message. In Jesus Name Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Daniel 9; Daniel 10; Psalm 123; Luke 5
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Luke 5
18 Some men came carrying a paralyzed man on a sleeping mat. They tried to take him inside to Jesus, 19 but they couldn’t reach him because of the crowd. So they went up to the roof and took off some tiles. Then they lowered the sick man on his mat down into the crowd, right in front of Jesus. 20 Seeing their faith, Jesus said to the man, “Young man, your sins are forgiven.”
21 But the Pharisees and teachers of religious law said to themselves, “Who does he think he is? That’s blasphemy! Only God can forgive sins!”
22 Jesus knew what they were thinking, so he asked them, “Why do you question this in your hearts? 23 Is it easier to say ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or ‘Stand up and walk’? 24 So I will prove to you that the Son of Man has the authority on earth to forgive sins.” Then Jesus turned to the paralyzed man and said, “Stand up, pick up your mat, and go home!”
25 And immediately, as everyone watched, the man jumped up, picked up his mat, and went home praising God. 26 Everyone was gripped with great wonder and awe, and they praised God, exclaiming, “We have seen amazing things today!”
Observation
The Pharisees knew that only God could forgive sins and they knew that Jesus was claiming to be God. Today some people still want to say that Jesus was a good teacher, but not God. Some things never change!
I was 19 years old when I understood that Jesus was God and He could forgive me of my sins. I accepted Him as my Lord and my Savior. I am forgiven. Not because I deserve it, but because it was something that Jesus did out of mercy for me. He will do the same thing for you.
Are your sins forgiven?
Application
I will be ready to share the Good News with someone this week to let him or her know that Jesus is ready to forgive them of their sins.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for saving me. I pray that you bring someone into my life that needs to experience your forgiveness and is willing to hear the Gospel message. In Jesus Name Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Temptation!
Daniel 7; Daniel 8; Psalm 137; Luke 4
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Luke 4
The Temptation of Jesus
1 Then Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan River. He was led by the Spirit in the wilderness, 2 where he was tempted by the devil for forty days. Jesus ate nothing all that time and became very hungry. 3 Then the devil said to him, “If you are the Son of God, tell this stone to become a loaf of bread.” 4 But Jesus told him, “No! The Scriptures say, ‘People do not live by bread alone.”
5 Then the devil took him up and revealed to him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time. 6 “I will give you the glory of these kingdoms and authority over them,” the devil said, “because they are mine to give to anyone I please. 7 I will give it all to you if you will worship me.” 8 Jesus replied, “The Scriptures say, ‘You must worship the LORD your God and serve only him.”
9 Then the devil took him to Jerusalem, to the highest point of the Temple, and said, “If you are the Son of God, jump off! 10 For the Scriptures say, ‘He will order his angels to protect and guard you. 11 And they will hold you up with their hands so you won’t even hurt your foot on a stone.’” 12 Jesus responded, “The Scriptures also say, ‘You must not test the LORD your God.” 13 When the devil had finished tempting Jesus, he left him until the next opportunity came.
Observation
When are you most tempted, when you are lonely, hungry, thirsty, or tired? Jesus was human just like we are and He was tempted when He was hungry. He used scripture to fight off the temptation and that is just what we need to do. It will be a lot easier to have victory over temptation if you have God’s Word memorized and tucked into your heart. Trust me you will be tempted this week.
Application I will continue to memorize God’s Word and I will rely on His Word to help me when I am tempted.
Prayer Heavenly Father, I have hid Your Word in my heart so I will not sin against You. Help me this week to memorize another verse that will strengthen and protect me when I face temptation!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Daniel 7; Daniel 8; Psalm 137; Luke 4
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Luke 4
The Temptation of Jesus
1 Then Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan River. He was led by the Spirit in the wilderness, 2 where he was tempted by the devil for forty days. Jesus ate nothing all that time and became very hungry. 3 Then the devil said to him, “If you are the Son of God, tell this stone to become a loaf of bread.” 4 But Jesus told him, “No! The Scriptures say, ‘People do not live by bread alone.”
5 Then the devil took him up and revealed to him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time. 6 “I will give you the glory of these kingdoms and authority over them,” the devil said, “because they are mine to give to anyone I please. 7 I will give it all to you if you will worship me.” 8 Jesus replied, “The Scriptures say, ‘You must worship the LORD your God and serve only him.”
9 Then the devil took him to Jerusalem, to the highest point of the Temple, and said, “If you are the Son of God, jump off! 10 For the Scriptures say, ‘He will order his angels to protect and guard you. 11 And they will hold you up with their hands so you won’t even hurt your foot on a stone.’” 12 Jesus responded, “The Scriptures also say, ‘You must not test the LORD your God.” 13 When the devil had finished tempting Jesus, he left him until the next opportunity came.
Observation
When are you most tempted, when you are lonely, hungry, thirsty, or tired? Jesus was human just like we are and He was tempted when He was hungry. He used scripture to fight off the temptation and that is just what we need to do. It will be a lot easier to have victory over temptation if you have God’s Word memorized and tucked into your heart. Trust me you will be tempted this week.
Application I will continue to memorize God’s Word and I will rely on His Word to help me when I am tempted.
Prayer Heavenly Father, I have hid Your Word in my heart so I will not sin against You. Help me this week to memorize another verse that will strengthen and protect me when I face temptation!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Stock Market Jitters … Put Your Hope in the Lord!
Daniel 5; Daniel 6; Psalm 130; Luke 3
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Psalm 130
5 I am counting on the LORD;
yes, I am counting on him.
I have put my hope in his word.
Observation
Don’t put your hope in banks or financial institutions or the government. Put your hope where you will not be disappointed put your hope in the Lord and in His Word. Things for Americans seem so uncertain right now don’t they? But you and I can count on the Lord; yes, we can count on Him!
Application
I am putting my hope in God’s Word. I am counting on Him to get us through this difficult time. How about you?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I put my complete trust and all my hope in Your Word. I am counting on You.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Daniel 5; Daniel 6; Psalm 130; Luke 3
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Psalm 130
5 I am counting on the LORD;
yes, I am counting on him.
I have put my hope in his word.
Observation
Don’t put your hope in banks or financial institutions or the government. Put your hope where you will not be disappointed put your hope in the Lord and in His Word. Things for Americans seem so uncertain right now don’t they? But you and I can count on the Lord; yes, we can count on Him!
Application
I am putting my hope in God’s Word. I am counting on Him to get us through this difficult time. How about you?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I put my complete trust and all my hope in Your Word. I am counting on You.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Friday, September 19, 2008
When the Ordinary Becomes Extraordinary!
Ezekiel 47; Ezekiel 48; Luke 2
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Luke 2
The Birth of Jesus
1 At that time the Roman emperor, Augustus, decreed that a census should be taken throughout the Roman Empire. 2 (This was the first census taken when Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 3 All returned to their own ancestral towns to register for this census.
4 And because Joseph was a descendant of King David, he had to go to Bethlehem in Judea, David’s ancient home. He traveled there from the village of Nazareth in Galilee. 5 He took with him Mary, his fiancée, who was now obviously pregnant.
6 And while they were there, the time came for her baby to be born. 7 She gave birth to her first child, a son. She wrapped him snugly in strips of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no lodging available for them.
The Shepherds and Angels
8 That night there were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep. 9 Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord’s glory surrounded them. They were terrified, 10 but the angel reassured them. “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people.
11 The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! 12 And you will recognize him by this sign: You will find a baby wrapped snugly in strips of cloth, lying in a manger.”
13 Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others—the armies of heaven—praising God and saying,
14 “Glory to God in highest heaven,
and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.”
15 When the angels had returned to heaven, the shepherds said to each other, “Let’s go to Bethlehem! Let’s see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”
16 They hurried to the village and found Mary and Joseph. And there was the baby, lying in the manger. 17 After seeing him, the shepherds told everyone what had happened and what the angel had said to them about this child.
18 All who heard the shepherds’ story were astonished, 19 but Mary kept all these things in her heart and thought about them often. 20 The shepherds went back to their flocks, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen. It was just as the angel had told them.
Observation
I agree with Max Lucado who I think said, “God takes the ordinary and makes it extraordinary.” Every time I read this story and I filled with awe and amazement. God chose an ordinary teenage girl, an ordinary stable, and some ordinary shepherds to make an extraordinary night!
Christmas is just a few months away. In a few weeks the weather will begin to cool down, fall will be in the air and the Christmas story right around the corner. I can’t wait!
Ordinary plus God = Extraordinary!
Application
I will look for the extraordinary in the ordinary all day today!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for sending the Christ Child to be born just the way You did. Thank you for the Christmas Story. I agree with the Angels when they shouted, “Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.”
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezekiel 47; Ezekiel 48; Luke 2
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Luke 2
The Birth of Jesus
1 At that time the Roman emperor, Augustus, decreed that a census should be taken throughout the Roman Empire. 2 (This was the first census taken when Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 3 All returned to their own ancestral towns to register for this census.
4 And because Joseph was a descendant of King David, he had to go to Bethlehem in Judea, David’s ancient home. He traveled there from the village of Nazareth in Galilee. 5 He took with him Mary, his fiancée, who was now obviously pregnant.
6 And while they were there, the time came for her baby to be born. 7 She gave birth to her first child, a son. She wrapped him snugly in strips of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no lodging available for them.
The Shepherds and Angels
8 That night there were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep. 9 Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord’s glory surrounded them. They were terrified, 10 but the angel reassured them. “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people.
11 The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! 12 And you will recognize him by this sign: You will find a baby wrapped snugly in strips of cloth, lying in a manger.”
13 Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others—the armies of heaven—praising God and saying,
14 “Glory to God in highest heaven,
and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.”
15 When the angels had returned to heaven, the shepherds said to each other, “Let’s go to Bethlehem! Let’s see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”
16 They hurried to the village and found Mary and Joseph. And there was the baby, lying in the manger. 17 After seeing him, the shepherds told everyone what had happened and what the angel had said to them about this child.
18 All who heard the shepherds’ story were astonished, 19 but Mary kept all these things in her heart and thought about them often. 20 The shepherds went back to their flocks, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen. It was just as the angel had told them.
Observation
I agree with Max Lucado who I think said, “God takes the ordinary and makes it extraordinary.” Every time I read this story and I filled with awe and amazement. God chose an ordinary teenage girl, an ordinary stable, and some ordinary shepherds to make an extraordinary night!
Christmas is just a few months away. In a few weeks the weather will begin to cool down, fall will be in the air and the Christmas story right around the corner. I can’t wait!
Ordinary plus God = Extraordinary!
Application
I will look for the extraordinary in the ordinary all day today!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for sending the Christ Child to be born just the way You did. Thank you for the Christmas Story. I agree with the Angels when they shouted, “Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.”
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Thursday, September 18, 2008
God Has Heard Your Prayer!
Ezekiel 45; Ezekiel 46; Luke 1
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Luke 1
5 When Herod was king of Judea, there was a Jewish priest named Zechariah. He was a member of the priestly order of Abijah, and his wife, Elizabeth, was also from the priestly line of Aaron. 6 Zechariah and Elizabeth were righteous in God’s eyes, careful to obey all of the Lord’s commandments and regulations. 7 They had no children because Elizabeth was unable to conceive, and they were both very old.
8 One day Zechariah was serving God in the Temple, for his order was on duty that week. 9 As was the custom of the priests, he was chosen by lot to enter the sanctuary of the Lord and burn incense. 10 While the incense was being burned, a great crowd stood outside, praying.
11 While Zechariah was in the sanctuary, an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing to the right of the incense altar. 12 Zechariah was shaken and overwhelmed with fear when he saw him. 13 But the angel said, “Don’t be afraid, Zechariah! God has heard your prayer. Your wife, Elizabeth, will give you a son, and you are to name him John. 14 You will have great joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth, 15 for he will be great in the eyes of the Lord. He must never touch wine or other alcoholic drinks. He will be filled with the Holy Spirit, even before his birth.
16 And he will turn many Israelites to the Lord their God. 17 He will be a man with the spirit and power of Elijah. He will prepare the people for the coming of the Lord. He will turn the hearts of the fathers to their children, and he will cause those who are rebellious to accept the wisdom of the godly.”
34 Mary asked the angel, “But how can this happen? I am a virgin.”
35 The angel replied, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the baby to be born will be holy, and he will be called the Son of God. 36 What’s more, your relative Elizabeth has become pregnant in her old age! People used to say she was barren, but she’s now in her sixth month.
37 For nothing is impossible with God.”
Observation
Ever feel like you have been praying and praying for something but God has still not responded to your request? What if you were in Zechariah’s place and had been praying and praying for a child, but no answer came until you and your wife were completely past the age to have children and then God sends you word via one of his Angels that you are going to have a baby! God loves to do things that are way cool and way impossible at least in our small minds is beyond possible.
I don’t know what you are going through but you might just want to memorize this little reminder that the Angel left with Mary when he shared with her an even bigger miracle. He shared with her that she was going to have a baby even though she had not had sexual intercourse with a man yet. He announced that this virgin was going to have a baby and he reminded her, “Nothing is impossible with God.”
Nothing!
Application
I will hold onto verse 37, “For nothing is impossible with God.” That pretty much covers anything that I will face today!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, You are such a Good Heavenly Father. Thank you for a very good day. I am so tired, but I am so grateful to You for this day. You have been with me every second. I am so blessed. Thank you for doing the impossible in my life and in the lives of the people that I love. It was neat how you healed Trudy, our church receptionist this week and completely removed the nodule that was in her lung. Thank you for answering our prayers.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezekiel 45; Ezekiel 46; Luke 1
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Luke 1
5 When Herod was king of Judea, there was a Jewish priest named Zechariah. He was a member of the priestly order of Abijah, and his wife, Elizabeth, was also from the priestly line of Aaron. 6 Zechariah and Elizabeth were righteous in God’s eyes, careful to obey all of the Lord’s commandments and regulations. 7 They had no children because Elizabeth was unable to conceive, and they were both very old.
8 One day Zechariah was serving God in the Temple, for his order was on duty that week. 9 As was the custom of the priests, he was chosen by lot to enter the sanctuary of the Lord and burn incense. 10 While the incense was being burned, a great crowd stood outside, praying.
11 While Zechariah was in the sanctuary, an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing to the right of the incense altar. 12 Zechariah was shaken and overwhelmed with fear when he saw him. 13 But the angel said, “Don’t be afraid, Zechariah! God has heard your prayer. Your wife, Elizabeth, will give you a son, and you are to name him John. 14 You will have great joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth, 15 for he will be great in the eyes of the Lord. He must never touch wine or other alcoholic drinks. He will be filled with the Holy Spirit, even before his birth.
16 And he will turn many Israelites to the Lord their God. 17 He will be a man with the spirit and power of Elijah. He will prepare the people for the coming of the Lord. He will turn the hearts of the fathers to their children, and he will cause those who are rebellious to accept the wisdom of the godly.”
34 Mary asked the angel, “But how can this happen? I am a virgin.”
35 The angel replied, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the baby to be born will be holy, and he will be called the Son of God. 36 What’s more, your relative Elizabeth has become pregnant in her old age! People used to say she was barren, but she’s now in her sixth month.
37 For nothing is impossible with God.”
Observation
Ever feel like you have been praying and praying for something but God has still not responded to your request? What if you were in Zechariah’s place and had been praying and praying for a child, but no answer came until you and your wife were completely past the age to have children and then God sends you word via one of his Angels that you are going to have a baby! God loves to do things that are way cool and way impossible at least in our small minds is beyond possible.
I don’t know what you are going through but you might just want to memorize this little reminder that the Angel left with Mary when he shared with her an even bigger miracle. He shared with her that she was going to have a baby even though she had not had sexual intercourse with a man yet. He announced that this virgin was going to have a baby and he reminded her, “Nothing is impossible with God.”
Nothing!
Application
I will hold onto verse 37, “For nothing is impossible with God.” That pretty much covers anything that I will face today!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, You are such a Good Heavenly Father. Thank you for a very good day. I am so tired, but I am so grateful to You for this day. You have been with me every second. I am so blessed. Thank you for doing the impossible in my life and in the lives of the people that I love. It was neat how you healed Trudy, our church receptionist this week and completely removed the nodule that was in her lung. Thank you for answering our prayers.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
I AM the Bright Morning Star
Ezekiel 42; Ezekiel 43; Ezekiel 44; Revelation 22
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Revelation 22
16 “I, Jesus, have sent my angel to give you this message for the churches. I am both the source of David and the heir to his throne. I am the bright morning star.”
Observation
Matthew 2:2 "Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we saw His star in the east and have come to worship Him."
Luke 1
78 Because of God’s tender mercy,
the morning light from heaven is about to break upon us,
79 to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death,
and to guide us to the path of peace.”
Have you looked up lately at night and gazed at all of the stars? It helps to be out in the country away from the city lights to be able to really see all of God’s handiwork. But the brightest Star is Jesus. He is the bright Morning Star. He is the brightest. If you are wise you will look to the Morning Star for direction today. He can light up your path and give you direction in a world that is dark and confused.
Application
I will look up today! He is my Bright Morning Star. He is all I need to make it through this day.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, you are Creator God. Your creation is marvelous. All I have to do is look around me today to see Your Awesome Power and Your Wonderful Love. Today I will look up and trust in the Light of the Bright Morning Star. And help me to let my light shine before men that they may see my good works and glorify the Father, which is in Heaven. (Matthew 5:16)
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezekiel 42; Ezekiel 43; Ezekiel 44; Revelation 22
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Revelation 22
16 “I, Jesus, have sent my angel to give you this message for the churches. I am both the source of David and the heir to his throne. I am the bright morning star.”
Observation
Matthew 2:2 "Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we saw His star in the east and have come to worship Him."
Luke 1
78 Because of God’s tender mercy,
the morning light from heaven is about to break upon us,
79 to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death,
and to guide us to the path of peace.”
Have you looked up lately at night and gazed at all of the stars? It helps to be out in the country away from the city lights to be able to really see all of God’s handiwork. But the brightest Star is Jesus. He is the bright Morning Star. He is the brightest. If you are wise you will look to the Morning Star for direction today. He can light up your path and give you direction in a world that is dark and confused.
Application
I will look up today! He is my Bright Morning Star. He is all I need to make it through this day.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, you are Creator God. Your creation is marvelous. All I have to do is look around me today to see Your Awesome Power and Your Wonderful Love. Today I will look up and trust in the Light of the Bright Morning Star. And help me to let my light shine before men that they may see my good works and glorify the Father, which is in Heaven. (Matthew 5:16)
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
God Can’t Allow Sin Into Heaven
Ezekiel 40; Ezekiel 41; Psalm 128; Revelation 21
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Revelation 21
27 Nothing evil will be allowed to enter, nor anyone who practices shameful idolatry and dishonesty—but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.
Observation
If God does not allow sin into Heaven then how can sinful man enter in? The penalty of our sin must be paid for before we can enter into Heaven, but what can take away this penalty of sin? Jesus Christ came and lived on this earth and He lived a sinless life so that He could offer His sinless life on the cross for our sinful lives. He covered over our sins on the cross with His sinless life.
When we put our trust and our faith in Christ and accept what He did on the cross for us then our sins are forgiven and forgotten by God and we are allowed entrance into Heaven through the blood sacrifice of His Son on the cross. Then our names are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.
The old hymn that states, “What can wash away my sins, nothing but the blood of Jesus” is so true for me today. How about you?
Application
I am going to ask someone today if their name is written in the Lamb’s Book of Life and if they say “yes” I am going to ask them to tell me how they know.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for writing my name in the Book of Life. Help me share with others so that their names will also be found in this most important Book. I pray for the salvation of those close to me. I pray for some close to me that profess to know You but are living lives that are out of control and are on the road to destruction. I pray that they would repent and turn back to You. In Jesus Name Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezekiel 40; Ezekiel 41; Psalm 128; Revelation 21
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Revelation 21
27 Nothing evil will be allowed to enter, nor anyone who practices shameful idolatry and dishonesty—but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.
Observation
If God does not allow sin into Heaven then how can sinful man enter in? The penalty of our sin must be paid for before we can enter into Heaven, but what can take away this penalty of sin? Jesus Christ came and lived on this earth and He lived a sinless life so that He could offer His sinless life on the cross for our sinful lives. He covered over our sins on the cross with His sinless life.
When we put our trust and our faith in Christ and accept what He did on the cross for us then our sins are forgiven and forgotten by God and we are allowed entrance into Heaven through the blood sacrifice of His Son on the cross. Then our names are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.
The old hymn that states, “What can wash away my sins, nothing but the blood of Jesus” is so true for me today. How about you?
Application
I am going to ask someone today if their name is written in the Lamb’s Book of Life and if they say “yes” I am going to ask them to tell me how they know.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for writing my name in the Book of Life. Help me share with others so that their names will also be found in this most important Book. I pray for the salvation of those close to me. I pray for some close to me that profess to know You but are living lives that are out of control and are on the road to destruction. I pray that they would repent and turn back to You. In Jesus Name Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Monday, September 15, 2008
How To Go To Hell!
Ezekiel 38; Ezekiel 39; Psalm 145; Revelation 20
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Revelation 20
15 And anyone whose name was not found recorded in the Book of Life was thrown into the lake of fire.
Observation
Is your name written in the Book of Life? If you don’t know if it is or not then I would suggest that you act today to make sure your name is in that most important book. What should you do? Jesus says, “But unless you repent, you too will all perish.” Luke 13:3 And John 3:16 says, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
So if you are not sure whether your name has been written into that most important book called the Book of Life you should turn from sin and self and turn to God and trust in Jesus Christ as your Lord and your Savior. The only way to have your name in that Book is for you to have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
He died on the cross to pay the penalty of your sins, but you must personally receive for yourself this gift of eternal life. If you have never surrendered your life to Jesus Christ then your name has not been written into the Book of Life.
Perish does not mean ceasing to exist, but it means eternal separation from God and it means eternal separation from everyone that has eternal life in a very real place called Hell. It is eternal punishment and eternal torture in a lake of fire.
Application
I will be looking for people that need to saved from this lake of fire.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you that my name has been written in the Book of Life. I don’t have to worry about my salvation or worry about where I am going to spend eternity. I pray for the opportunity to help others make the decision to follow You. I want to share with people the Good News of Jesus Christ. Thank you for a new week of exciting challenges. Help me to make every minute count. In Jesus Name Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezekiel 38; Ezekiel 39; Psalm 145; Revelation 20
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Revelation 20
15 And anyone whose name was not found recorded in the Book of Life was thrown into the lake of fire.
Observation
Is your name written in the Book of Life? If you don’t know if it is or not then I would suggest that you act today to make sure your name is in that most important book. What should you do? Jesus says, “But unless you repent, you too will all perish.” Luke 13:3 And John 3:16 says, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
So if you are not sure whether your name has been written into that most important book called the Book of Life you should turn from sin and self and turn to God and trust in Jesus Christ as your Lord and your Savior. The only way to have your name in that Book is for you to have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
He died on the cross to pay the penalty of your sins, but you must personally receive for yourself this gift of eternal life. If you have never surrendered your life to Jesus Christ then your name has not been written into the Book of Life.
Perish does not mean ceasing to exist, but it means eternal separation from God and it means eternal separation from everyone that has eternal life in a very real place called Hell. It is eternal punishment and eternal torture in a lake of fire.
Application
I will be looking for people that need to saved from this lake of fire.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you that my name has been written in the Book of Life. I don’t have to worry about my salvation or worry about where I am going to spend eternity. I pray for the opportunity to help others make the decision to follow You. I want to share with people the Good News of Jesus Christ. Thank you for a new week of exciting challenges. Help me to make every minute count. In Jesus Name Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Sunday, September 14, 2008
King of all kings and Lord of all lords!
Ezekiel 36; Ezekiel 37; Psalm 110; Revelation 19
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Revelation 19
11 Then I saw heaven opened, and a white horse was standing there. Its rider was named Faithful and True, for he judges fairly and wages a righteous war. 12 His eyes were like flames of fire, and on his head were many crowns. A name was written on him that no one understood except himself. 13 He wore a robe dipped in blood, and his title was the Word of God. 14 The armies of heaven, dressed in the finest of pure white linen, followed him on white horses. 15 From his mouth came a sharp sword to strike down the nations. He will rule them with an iron rod. He will release the fierce wrath of God, the Almighty, like juice flowing from a winepress. 16 On his robe at his thigh was written this title: King of all kings and Lord of all lords.
Observation
If you want to know what God is like then all you have to do is look in the Gospels and read about Jesus. But Jesus will not look or act the same when He comes again to this earth. In the Gospels we find a Suffering Servant, but in the book of Revelation we find a returning King ready for battle. Jesus will return the second time as a conquering King ready to completely destroy the ungodly.
Application
Come Lord Jesus!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I look forward to seeing Jesus as He is described in Revelation. He is King of kings and Lord of lords. He is the Alpha and the Omega. Come Lord Jesus!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezekiel 36; Ezekiel 37; Psalm 110; Revelation 19
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Revelation 19
11 Then I saw heaven opened, and a white horse was standing there. Its rider was named Faithful and True, for he judges fairly and wages a righteous war. 12 His eyes were like flames of fire, and on his head were many crowns. A name was written on him that no one understood except himself. 13 He wore a robe dipped in blood, and his title was the Word of God. 14 The armies of heaven, dressed in the finest of pure white linen, followed him on white horses. 15 From his mouth came a sharp sword to strike down the nations. He will rule them with an iron rod. He will release the fierce wrath of God, the Almighty, like juice flowing from a winepress. 16 On his robe at his thigh was written this title: King of all kings and Lord of all lords.
Observation
If you want to know what God is like then all you have to do is look in the Gospels and read about Jesus. But Jesus will not look or act the same when He comes again to this earth. In the Gospels we find a Suffering Servant, but in the book of Revelation we find a returning King ready for battle. Jesus will return the second time as a conquering King ready to completely destroy the ungodly.
Application
Come Lord Jesus!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I look forward to seeing Jesus as He is described in Revelation. He is King of kings and Lord of lords. He is the Alpha and the Omega. Come Lord Jesus!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Saturday, September 13, 2008
I AM Making You a Watchman!
Ezekiel 33; Ezekiel 34; Ezekiel 35; Revelation 18
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Ezekiel 33
7 “Now, son of man, I am making you a watchman for the people of Israel. Therefore, listen to what I say and warn them for me. 8 If I announce that some wicked people are sure to die and you fail to tell them to change their ways, then they will die in their sins, and I will hold you responsible for their deaths. 9 But if you warn them to repent and they don’t repent, they will die in their sins, but you will have saved yourself.
Observation
It is our job to share the Good News and it is God’s job to save. How can they hear without a preacher is still very true today. People have to hear the Gospel to either accept it or reject it. If they are not warned then they will never have the opportunity to repent!
Application
I will look for opportunities today to be a witness.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me be Your witness today. Help me see every person with Your eyes and with Your heart. I pray for opportunities to share my faith. Thank you for bringing people into my life that told me about Jesus. In Jesus Name Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezekiel 33; Ezekiel 34; Ezekiel 35; Revelation 18
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Ezekiel 33
7 “Now, son of man, I am making you a watchman for the people of Israel. Therefore, listen to what I say and warn them for me. 8 If I announce that some wicked people are sure to die and you fail to tell them to change their ways, then they will die in their sins, and I will hold you responsible for their deaths. 9 But if you warn them to repent and they don’t repent, they will die in their sins, but you will have saved yourself.
Observation
It is our job to share the Good News and it is God’s job to save. How can they hear without a preacher is still very true today. People have to hear the Gospel to either accept it or reject it. If they are not warned then they will never have the opportunity to repent!
Application
I will look for opportunities today to be a witness.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me be Your witness today. Help me see every person with Your eyes and with Your heart. I pray for opportunities to share my faith. Thank you for bringing people into my life that told me about Jesus. In Jesus Name Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Friday, September 12, 2008
We Want To Make It Clear To You!
Daniel 3; Daniel 4; Psalm 81; Revelation 17
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Daniel 3
11 That decree also states that those who refuse to obey must be thrown into a blazing furnace. 12 But there are some Jews—Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego—whom you have put in charge of the province of Babylon. They pay no attention to you, Your Majesty. They refuse to serve your gods and do not worship the gold statue you have set up.”
13 Then Nebuchadnezzar flew into a rage and ordered that Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego be brought before him. When they were brought in, 14 Nebuchadnezzar said to them, “Is it true, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, that you refuse to serve my gods or to worship the gold statue I have set up? 15 I will give you one more chance to bow down and worship the statue I have made when you hear the sound of the musical instruments. But if you refuse, you will be thrown immediately into the blazing furnace. And then what god will be able to rescue you from my power?”
16 Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego replied, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you. 17 If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God whom we serve is able to save us. He will rescue us from your power, Your Majesty. 18 But even if he doesn’t, we want to make it clear to you, Your Majesty, that we will never serve your gods or worship the gold statue you have set up.”
The Blazing Furnace
19 Nebuchadnezzar was so furious with Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego that his face became distorted with rage. He commanded that the furnace be heated seven times hotter than usual. 20 Then he ordered some of the strongest men of his army to bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego and throw them into the blazing furnace. 21 So they tied them up and threw them into the furnace, fully dressed in their pants, turbans, robes, and other garments. 22 And because the king, in his anger, had demanded such a hot fire in the furnace, the flames killed the soldiers as they threw the three men in. 23 So Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, securely tied, fell into the roaring flames.
24 But suddenly, Nebuchadnezzar jumped up in amazement and exclaimed to his advisers, “Didn’t we tie up three men and throw them into the furnace?”
“Yes, Your Majesty, we certainly did,” they replied.
25 “Look!” Nebuchadnezzar shouted. “I see four men, unbound, walking around in the fire unharmed! And the fourth looks like a god!”
26 Then Nebuchadnezzar came as close as he could to the door of the flaming furnace and shouted: “Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, servants of the Most High God, come out! Come here!”
So Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego stepped out of the fire. 27 Then the high officers, officials, governors, and advisers crowded around them and saw that the fire had not touched them. Not a hair on their heads was singed, and their clothing was not scorched. They didn’t even smell of smoke!
28 Then Nebuchadnezzar said, “Praise to the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego! He sent his angel to rescue his servants who trusted in him. They defied the king’s command and were willing to die rather than serve or worship any god except their own God. 29 Therefore, I make this decree: If any people, whatever their race or nation or language, speak a word against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, they will be torn limb from limb, and their houses will be turned into heaps of rubble. There is no other god who can rescue like this!”
Observation
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego would not budge on their convictions and we shouldn’t either. This week at Sunday night’s MTV VMA award show, host and semi-known British comedian Russell Brand mocked the wildly popular band the Jonas Brothers and their “promise rings” which identify them as vowing to wait until marriage to have sex.
Immediately after Brand ridiculed the Jonas Brothers for their Christian commitment to sexual purity American Idol winner Jordan Sparks took the stage to present an award and this is what she had to say about Russell Brand’s negative comment about “promise rings” This is what she said, “I just have one thing to say about promise rings; It’s not bad to wear a promise ring, because not everybody, guy or girl, wants to be a slut.” Jordan Sparks also wears a “Promise Ring”.
She took a stand and glorified her Lord and I am proud of her.
Application
I will pray for people like the Jonas Brothers, Jordan Sparks and Governor Sarah Palin that are taking courageous stands for Christ.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I pray for Christians that you have allowed to be placed in the spot light in our country. Help them to remain pure and remain strong. I know that the Devil would love to get a foothold in their lives. In Jesus Name Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Daniel 3; Daniel 4; Psalm 81; Revelation 17
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Daniel 3
11 That decree also states that those who refuse to obey must be thrown into a blazing furnace. 12 But there are some Jews—Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego—whom you have put in charge of the province of Babylon. They pay no attention to you, Your Majesty. They refuse to serve your gods and do not worship the gold statue you have set up.”
13 Then Nebuchadnezzar flew into a rage and ordered that Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego be brought before him. When they were brought in, 14 Nebuchadnezzar said to them, “Is it true, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, that you refuse to serve my gods or to worship the gold statue I have set up? 15 I will give you one more chance to bow down and worship the statue I have made when you hear the sound of the musical instruments. But if you refuse, you will be thrown immediately into the blazing furnace. And then what god will be able to rescue you from my power?”
16 Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego replied, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you. 17 If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God whom we serve is able to save us. He will rescue us from your power, Your Majesty. 18 But even if he doesn’t, we want to make it clear to you, Your Majesty, that we will never serve your gods or worship the gold statue you have set up.”
The Blazing Furnace
19 Nebuchadnezzar was so furious with Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego that his face became distorted with rage. He commanded that the furnace be heated seven times hotter than usual. 20 Then he ordered some of the strongest men of his army to bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego and throw them into the blazing furnace. 21 So they tied them up and threw them into the furnace, fully dressed in their pants, turbans, robes, and other garments. 22 And because the king, in his anger, had demanded such a hot fire in the furnace, the flames killed the soldiers as they threw the three men in. 23 So Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, securely tied, fell into the roaring flames.
24 But suddenly, Nebuchadnezzar jumped up in amazement and exclaimed to his advisers, “Didn’t we tie up three men and throw them into the furnace?”
“Yes, Your Majesty, we certainly did,” they replied.
25 “Look!” Nebuchadnezzar shouted. “I see four men, unbound, walking around in the fire unharmed! And the fourth looks like a god!”
26 Then Nebuchadnezzar came as close as he could to the door of the flaming furnace and shouted: “Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, servants of the Most High God, come out! Come here!”
So Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego stepped out of the fire. 27 Then the high officers, officials, governors, and advisers crowded around them and saw that the fire had not touched them. Not a hair on their heads was singed, and their clothing was not scorched. They didn’t even smell of smoke!
28 Then Nebuchadnezzar said, “Praise to the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego! He sent his angel to rescue his servants who trusted in him. They defied the king’s command and were willing to die rather than serve or worship any god except their own God. 29 Therefore, I make this decree: If any people, whatever their race or nation or language, speak a word against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, they will be torn limb from limb, and their houses will be turned into heaps of rubble. There is no other god who can rescue like this!”
Observation
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego would not budge on their convictions and we shouldn’t either. This week at Sunday night’s MTV VMA award show, host and semi-known British comedian Russell Brand mocked the wildly popular band the Jonas Brothers and their “promise rings” which identify them as vowing to wait until marriage to have sex.
Immediately after Brand ridiculed the Jonas Brothers for their Christian commitment to sexual purity American Idol winner Jordan Sparks took the stage to present an award and this is what she had to say about Russell Brand’s negative comment about “promise rings” This is what she said, “I just have one thing to say about promise rings; It’s not bad to wear a promise ring, because not everybody, guy or girl, wants to be a slut.” Jordan Sparks also wears a “Promise Ring”.
She took a stand and glorified her Lord and I am proud of her.
Application
I will pray for people like the Jonas Brothers, Jordan Sparks and Governor Sarah Palin that are taking courageous stands for Christ.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I pray for Christians that you have allowed to be placed in the spot light in our country. Help them to remain pure and remain strong. I know that the Devil would love to get a foothold in their lives. In Jesus Name Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Determined to Serve God
Daniel 1; Daniel 2; Revelation 16
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Daniel 1
8 But Daniel was determined not to defile himself by eating the food and wine given to them by the king. He asked the chief of staff for permission not to eat these unacceptable foods. 9 Now God had given the chief of staff both respect and affection for Daniel. 10 But he responded, “I am afraid of my lord the king, who has ordered that you eat this food and wine. If you become pale and thin compared to the other youths your age, I am afraid the king will have me beheaded.”
Observation
Daniel had already made a decision that no matter what he was going to serve His God. So it was easy for him to refuse to eat the Kings food when told to do so. What have you already pre-determined that you are not going to do? Setting boundaries ahead of time keeps us from letting the Devil get a foothold in our lives.
Some of the boundaries that I have already pre-determined are: I will not eat a meal with someone of the opposite sex other than my wife; I will not travel in my car with someone of the opposite sex (other than Kathy); and I will not counsel anyone of the opposite sex in my office or anywhere else with the door closed; I will not enter a home to make a pastoral visit of a woman that is home alone (unless she is in her 80’s).
Application
I am determined to read my Bible and have time alone with God everyday.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me please You like Daniel did. I pray for the wisdom that Daniel had and I pray that You put in my heart his determination to serve You. In Jesus Name Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Daniel 1; Daniel 2; Revelation 16
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Daniel 1
8 But Daniel was determined not to defile himself by eating the food and wine given to them by the king. He asked the chief of staff for permission not to eat these unacceptable foods. 9 Now God had given the chief of staff both respect and affection for Daniel. 10 But he responded, “I am afraid of my lord the king, who has ordered that you eat this food and wine. If you become pale and thin compared to the other youths your age, I am afraid the king will have me beheaded.”
Observation
Daniel had already made a decision that no matter what he was going to serve His God. So it was easy for him to refuse to eat the Kings food when told to do so. What have you already pre-determined that you are not going to do? Setting boundaries ahead of time keeps us from letting the Devil get a foothold in our lives.
Some of the boundaries that I have already pre-determined are: I will not eat a meal with someone of the opposite sex other than my wife; I will not travel in my car with someone of the opposite sex (other than Kathy); and I will not counsel anyone of the opposite sex in my office or anywhere else with the door closed; I will not enter a home to make a pastoral visit of a woman that is home alone (unless she is in her 80’s).
Application
I am determined to read my Bible and have time alone with God everyday.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me please You like Daniel did. I pray for the wisdom that Daniel had and I pray that You put in my heart his determination to serve You. In Jesus Name Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
What a Mighty God We Serve!
Lamentations 3; Lamentations 4; Lamentations 5; Revelation 15
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Lamentations 3
22 The faithful love of the LORD never ends!
His mercies never cease.
23 Great is his faithfulness;
his mercies begin afresh each morning.
24 I say to myself, “The LORD is my inheritance;
therefore, I will hope in him!”
Observation
His mercies are new every morning! I am glad that God’s kindness and His compassion never run out, but they are renewed every morning! God is the God of second chances. His faithful love never runs out. Jeremiah was in a tough place. God was bringing judgment on His disobedient children and Jeremiah was paying the price for being God’s spokesman. Jeremiah had to go back and remember the attributes of God and he had to grab hold of them. When things are tough it is always a good idea to look up and remember Who our Heavenly Father is: He is Faithful, Loving, Forgiving, Good, All-Powerful, All-Knowing, Eternal, Unchanging, Infinite, Everywhere-present, All-wise, Gracious, Merciful, Just, and Sovereign (and Much More)!
Application
I will think of God’s Attributes all day today!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I am so thankful that you are Who You are and that You are not like me. Thank you that You still love me even when I am so unlike You. Thank you for Psalm 36:5-6 that says, “Your love is meteoric, Your loyalty is astronomic, Your purpose is titanic, Your verdicts oceanic. Yet in Your largeness nothing gets lost; Not a man, not a mouse, slips through the cracks.” In Jesus Name Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Lamentations 3; Lamentations 4; Lamentations 5; Revelation 15
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Lamentations 3
22 The faithful love of the LORD never ends!
His mercies never cease.
23 Great is his faithfulness;
his mercies begin afresh each morning.
24 I say to myself, “The LORD is my inheritance;
therefore, I will hope in him!”
Observation
His mercies are new every morning! I am glad that God’s kindness and His compassion never run out, but they are renewed every morning! God is the God of second chances. His faithful love never runs out. Jeremiah was in a tough place. God was bringing judgment on His disobedient children and Jeremiah was paying the price for being God’s spokesman. Jeremiah had to go back and remember the attributes of God and he had to grab hold of them. When things are tough it is always a good idea to look up and remember Who our Heavenly Father is: He is Faithful, Loving, Forgiving, Good, All-Powerful, All-Knowing, Eternal, Unchanging, Infinite, Everywhere-present, All-wise, Gracious, Merciful, Just, and Sovereign (and Much More)!
Application
I will think of God’s Attributes all day today!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I am so thankful that you are Who You are and that You are not like me. Thank you that You still love me even when I am so unlike You. Thank you for Psalm 36:5-6 that says, “Your love is meteoric, Your loyalty is astronomic, Your purpose is titanic, Your verdicts oceanic. Yet in Your largeness nothing gets lost; Not a man, not a mouse, slips through the cracks.” In Jesus Name Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Tuesday, September 09, 2008
God Loves New Songs!
Lamentations 1; Lamentations 2; Obadiah 1; Revelation 14
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Revelation 14
3 This great choir sang a wonderful new song in front of the throne of God and before the four living beings and the twenty-four elders. No one could learn this song except the 144,000 who had been redeemed from the earth. 4 They have kept themselves as pure as virgins, following the Lamb wherever he goes. They have been purchased from among the people on the earth as a special offering to God and to the Lamb.
Observation
Have you ever noticed that people like to sing what they are comfortable with and what they already know? If you bring in new songs and new music to a worship service then you might just hear rumblings and murmurings from a few in the congregation. ! It is an odd phenomenon!
God loves new songs! When we get to heaven there is going to be a great choir in front of the throne of God and they are going to be singing a new song!
God loves music. He has put music and songs in our hearts.
Application
I will listen for a new song to enjoy, a new song that will help me worship. Try listening to a new song at www.godtube.com
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me enjoy music and don’t ever let me get to where new songs bother me. I pray that today You will put a song in my heart that I can sing to you. You are Worthy of Praise. You are Worthy to be worshiped through a new song. In Jesus Name Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Lamentations 1; Lamentations 2; Obadiah 1; Revelation 14
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Revelation 14
3 This great choir sang a wonderful new song in front of the throne of God and before the four living beings and the twenty-four elders. No one could learn this song except the 144,000 who had been redeemed from the earth. 4 They have kept themselves as pure as virgins, following the Lamb wherever he goes. They have been purchased from among the people on the earth as a special offering to God and to the Lamb.
Observation
Have you ever noticed that people like to sing what they are comfortable with and what they already know? If you bring in new songs and new music to a worship service then you might just hear rumblings and murmurings from a few in the congregation. ! It is an odd phenomenon!
God loves new songs! When we get to heaven there is going to be a great choir in front of the throne of God and they are going to be singing a new song!
God loves music. He has put music and songs in our hearts.
Application
I will listen for a new song to enjoy, a new song that will help me worship. Try listening to a new song at www.godtube.com
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me enjoy music and don’t ever let me get to where new songs bother me. I pray that today You will put a song in my heart that I can sing to you. You are Worthy of Praise. You are Worthy to be worshiped through a new song. In Jesus Name Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Monday, September 08, 2008
Obey … Whether We Like It or Not!
Jeremiah 42; Jeremiah 43; Jeremiah 44; Psalm 48; Revelation 13
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Jeremiah 42
5 Then they said to Jeremiah, “May the LORD your God be a faithful witness against us if we refuse to obey whatever he tells us to do! 6 Whether we like it or not, we will obey the LORD our God to whom we are sending you with our plea. For if we obey him, everything will turn out well for us.”
9 He said to them, “You sent me to the LORD, the God of Israel, with your request, and this is his reply: 10 ‘Stay here in this land. If you do, I will build you up and not tear you down; I will plant you and not uproot you. For I am sorry about all the punishment I have had to bring upon you. 11 Do not fear the king of Babylon anymore,’ says the LORD. ‘For I am with you and will save you and rescue you from his power. 12 I will be merciful to you by making him kind, so he will let you stay here in your land.’
Jeremiah 43
1 When Jeremiah had finished giving this message from the LORD their God to all the people, 2 Azariah son of Hoshaiah and Johanan son of Kareah and all the other proud men said to Jeremiah, “You lie! The LORD our God hasn’t forbidden us to go to Egypt! 3 Baruch son of Neriah has convinced you to say this, because he wants us to stay here and be killed by the Babylonians or be carried off into exile.”
4 So Johanan and the other guerrilla leaders and all the people refused to obey the LORD’s command to stay in Judah.
Observation
If these rebellious guerrilla leaders had just done what they said they would do then they would have been spared. They said that they would obey God whether they liked what God told them to do or not, but then when Jeremiah told them what God said they refused to obey … and they died.
Learning to obey God whether we like it or not is a huge lesson that all of us need to learn. Just look at something as simple as regularly attending church and you can see how easy it is for people to operate off of their feelings rather than a strong commitment to serving the Lord. The least little thing can cause them to stay home.
Many of our senior adults at our church will attend even if they are experiencing a lot of pain and are not feeling well they are still going to be in Sunday School and Worship. They are wonderful examples of obedience and faithfulness to the younger generation.
Application
I will obey whether I feel like it or not.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to obey you no matter what. I pray that you direct my thoughts today and keep me focused on the promises in your Word. Show me what a Wonderful and Powerful God you are! I pray for the people around me that you bless them. I pray that our leadership would be filled with your Holy Spirit and that you would use them in mighty ways. Pour out your blessings on our church. Thank you for being so good to me. In Jesus Name Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Jeremiah 42; Jeremiah 43; Jeremiah 44; Psalm 48; Revelation 13
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Jeremiah 42
5 Then they said to Jeremiah, “May the LORD your God be a faithful witness against us if we refuse to obey whatever he tells us to do! 6 Whether we like it or not, we will obey the LORD our God to whom we are sending you with our plea. For if we obey him, everything will turn out well for us.”
9 He said to them, “You sent me to the LORD, the God of Israel, with your request, and this is his reply: 10 ‘Stay here in this land. If you do, I will build you up and not tear you down; I will plant you and not uproot you. For I am sorry about all the punishment I have had to bring upon you. 11 Do not fear the king of Babylon anymore,’ says the LORD. ‘For I am with you and will save you and rescue you from his power. 12 I will be merciful to you by making him kind, so he will let you stay here in your land.’
Jeremiah 43
1 When Jeremiah had finished giving this message from the LORD their God to all the people, 2 Azariah son of Hoshaiah and Johanan son of Kareah and all the other proud men said to Jeremiah, “You lie! The LORD our God hasn’t forbidden us to go to Egypt! 3 Baruch son of Neriah has convinced you to say this, because he wants us to stay here and be killed by the Babylonians or be carried off into exile.”
4 So Johanan and the other guerrilla leaders and all the people refused to obey the LORD’s command to stay in Judah.
Observation
If these rebellious guerrilla leaders had just done what they said they would do then they would have been spared. They said that they would obey God whether they liked what God told them to do or not, but then when Jeremiah told them what God said they refused to obey … and they died.
Learning to obey God whether we like it or not is a huge lesson that all of us need to learn. Just look at something as simple as regularly attending church and you can see how easy it is for people to operate off of their feelings rather than a strong commitment to serving the Lord. The least little thing can cause them to stay home.
Many of our senior adults at our church will attend even if they are experiencing a lot of pain and are not feeling well they are still going to be in Sunday School and Worship. They are wonderful examples of obedience and faithfulness to the younger generation.
Application
I will obey whether I feel like it or not.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to obey you no matter what. I pray that you direct my thoughts today and keep me focused on the promises in your Word. Show me what a Wonderful and Powerful God you are! I pray for the people around me that you bless them. I pray that our leadership would be filled with your Holy Spirit and that you would use them in mighty ways. Pour out your blessings on our church. Thank you for being so good to me. In Jesus Name Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Sunday, September 07, 2008
Yes, The Devil Does Have a Red Tail!
2 Kings 25; 2 Chronicles 36; Jeremiah 40; Jeremiah 41; Revelation 12
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Revelation 12
3 Then I witnessed in heaven another significant event. I saw a large red dragon with seven heads and ten horns, with seven crowns on his heads. 4 His tail swept away one-third of the stars in the sky, and he threw them to the earth. He stood in front of the woman as she was about to give birth, ready to devour her baby as soon as it was born.
7 Then there was war in heaven. Michael and his angels fought against the dragon and his angels. 8 And the dragon lost the battle, and he and his angels were forced out of heaven. 9 This great dragon—the ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, the one deceiving the whole world—was thrown down to the earth with all his angels.
Observation
Heaven was not always a place of peace. There was a battle, a war in Heaven where the angels fought against each other and Satan and his followers lost and were cast out of Heaven. Now they are down here harassing us until the day they receive their final punishment and just reward. He is a deceiver and he brings discord to this earth. Scripture says that about one third of the angels sided with the devil and so we have a lot of demons down here on earth to do the devils bidding.
That is why Paul said in 2 Cor. 10:4-5 “The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ."
The battle moved from Heaven down here to earth and we are in a spiritual battle everyday against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Ephes. 6:12
Application
I will put on the full armor of God as I start this day.
Ephes. 6:10-18
A final word: Be strong with the Lord's mighty power. [11] Put on all of God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies and tricks of the Devil. [12] For we are not fighting against people made of flesh and blood, but against the evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against those mighty powers of darkness who rule this world, and against wicked spirits in the heavenly realms.
[13] Use every piece of God's armor to resist the enemy in the time of evil, so that after the battle you will still be standing firm. [14] Stand your ground, putting on the sturdy belt of truth and the body armor of God's righteousness. [15] For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News, so that you will be fully prepared.
16] In every battle you will need faith as your shield to stop the fiery arrows aimed at you by Satan. [17] Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
[18] Pray at all times and on every occasion in the power of the Holy Spirit. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all Christians everywhere.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I know that the Devil is real and I know that today he will come at me as a deceiver. His demons do his dirty work and they are very real. But I will put on the whole armor of God to resist him. I will pray constantly today in the power of the Holy Spirit and I will pray for Christians today as they come across my path. I pray for Your strength and Your power for today’s battles. In Jesus Name Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
2 Kings 25; 2 Chronicles 36; Jeremiah 40; Jeremiah 41; Revelation 12
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Revelation 12
3 Then I witnessed in heaven another significant event. I saw a large red dragon with seven heads and ten horns, with seven crowns on his heads. 4 His tail swept away one-third of the stars in the sky, and he threw them to the earth. He stood in front of the woman as she was about to give birth, ready to devour her baby as soon as it was born.
7 Then there was war in heaven. Michael and his angels fought against the dragon and his angels. 8 And the dragon lost the battle, and he and his angels were forced out of heaven. 9 This great dragon—the ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, the one deceiving the whole world—was thrown down to the earth with all his angels.
Observation
Heaven was not always a place of peace. There was a battle, a war in Heaven where the angels fought against each other and Satan and his followers lost and were cast out of Heaven. Now they are down here harassing us until the day they receive their final punishment and just reward. He is a deceiver and he brings discord to this earth. Scripture says that about one third of the angels sided with the devil and so we have a lot of demons down here on earth to do the devils bidding.
That is why Paul said in 2 Cor. 10:4-5 “The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ."
The battle moved from Heaven down here to earth and we are in a spiritual battle everyday against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Ephes. 6:12
Application
I will put on the full armor of God as I start this day.
Ephes. 6:10-18
A final word: Be strong with the Lord's mighty power. [11] Put on all of God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies and tricks of the Devil. [12] For we are not fighting against people made of flesh and blood, but against the evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against those mighty powers of darkness who rule this world, and against wicked spirits in the heavenly realms.
[13] Use every piece of God's armor to resist the enemy in the time of evil, so that after the battle you will still be standing firm. [14] Stand your ground, putting on the sturdy belt of truth and the body armor of God's righteousness. [15] For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News, so that you will be fully prepared.
16] In every battle you will need faith as your shield to stop the fiery arrows aimed at you by Satan. [17] Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
[18] Pray at all times and on every occasion in the power of the Holy Spirit. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all Christians everywhere.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I know that the Devil is real and I know that today he will come at me as a deceiver. His demons do his dirty work and they are very real. But I will put on the whole armor of God to resist him. I will pray constantly today in the power of the Holy Spirit and I will pray for Christians today as they come across my path. I pray for Your strength and Your power for today’s battles. In Jesus Name Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Saturday, September 06, 2008
“Come up here!”
Ezekiel 29; Ezekiel 30; Ezekiel 31; Ezekiel 32; Revelation 11
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Revelation 11
3 And I will give power to my two witnesses, and they will be clothed in burlap and will prophesy during those 1,260 days.”
4 These two prophets are the two olive trees and the two lampstands that stand before the Lord of all the earth. 5 If anyone tries to harm them, fire flashes from their mouths and consumes their enemies. This is how anyone who tries to harm them must die. 6 They have power to shut the sky so that no rain will fall for as long as they prophesy. And they have the power to turn the rivers and oceans into blood, and to strike the earth with every kind of plague as often as they wish.
7 When they complete their testimony, the beast that comes up out of the bottomless pit will declare war against them, and he will conquer them and kill them. 8 And their bodies will lie in the main street of Jerusalem, the city that is figuratively called “Sodom” and “Egypt,” the city where their Lord was crucified. 9 And for three and a half days, all peoples, tribes, languages, and nations will stare at their bodies. No one will be allowed to bury them. 10 All the people who belong to this world will gloat over them and give presents to each other to celebrate the death of the two prophets who had tormented them.
11 But after three and a half days, God breathed life into them, and they stood up! Terror struck all who were staring at them. 12 Then a loud voice from heaven called to the two prophets, “Come up here!” And they rose to heaven in a cloud as their enemies watched.
Observation
I don’t know if you have read the “Left Behind” series, but if you haven’t you don’t know what you are missing. I remember the part when the two witnesses are killed and it was so real. We are so close to this happening that it is a little scary.
Nothing could harm these two prophets until the 1,260 days were up and then it was time for them to die. They stayed dead 3 ½ days and then the Lord said to them, “Come up here!” One day he is going to say to me and hopefully you, “Come up here!”
I need to live like it is going to be today and so do you!
Application
I will live today like it will be my last.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, slow me down today. Help me to enjoy everything and everyone. Help me to learn some new things at the Dave Ramsey seminar that will help my family and our church. Show me what the important things are for today and help me to focus on them. In Jesus Name Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezekiel 29; Ezekiel 30; Ezekiel 31; Ezekiel 32; Revelation 11
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Revelation 11
3 And I will give power to my two witnesses, and they will be clothed in burlap and will prophesy during those 1,260 days.”
4 These two prophets are the two olive trees and the two lampstands that stand before the Lord of all the earth. 5 If anyone tries to harm them, fire flashes from their mouths and consumes their enemies. This is how anyone who tries to harm them must die. 6 They have power to shut the sky so that no rain will fall for as long as they prophesy. And they have the power to turn the rivers and oceans into blood, and to strike the earth with every kind of plague as often as they wish.
7 When they complete their testimony, the beast that comes up out of the bottomless pit will declare war against them, and he will conquer them and kill them. 8 And their bodies will lie in the main street of Jerusalem, the city that is figuratively called “Sodom” and “Egypt,” the city where their Lord was crucified. 9 And for three and a half days, all peoples, tribes, languages, and nations will stare at their bodies. No one will be allowed to bury them. 10 All the people who belong to this world will gloat over them and give presents to each other to celebrate the death of the two prophets who had tormented them.
11 But after three and a half days, God breathed life into them, and they stood up! Terror struck all who were staring at them. 12 Then a loud voice from heaven called to the two prophets, “Come up here!” And they rose to heaven in a cloud as their enemies watched.
Observation
I don’t know if you have read the “Left Behind” series, but if you haven’t you don’t know what you are missing. I remember the part when the two witnesses are killed and it was so real. We are so close to this happening that it is a little scary.
Nothing could harm these two prophets until the 1,260 days were up and then it was time for them to die. They stayed dead 3 ½ days and then the Lord said to them, “Come up here!” One day he is going to say to me and hopefully you, “Come up here!”
I need to live like it is going to be today and so do you!
Application
I will live today like it will be my last.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, slow me down today. Help me to enjoy everything and everyone. Help me to learn some new things at the Dave Ramsey seminar that will help my family and our church. Show me what the important things are for today and help me to focus on them. In Jesus Name Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Friday, September 05, 2008
He is a God of Mercy!
Ezekiel 25; Ezekiel 26; Ezekiel 27; Ezekiel 28; Revelation 10
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Restoration for Israel
Ezekiel 28
25 “This is what the Sovereign LORD says: The people of Israel will again live in their own land, the land I gave my servant Jacob. For I will gather them from the distant lands where I have scattered them. I will reveal to the nations of the world my holiness among my people. 26 They will live safely in Israel and build homes and plant vineyards. And when I punish the neighboring nations that treated them with contempt, they will know that I am the LORD their God.”
Observation
As bad as Israel was God told them that one-day He would restore them. He said that He would gather them back together from all the surrounding countries and they would once again live in their own land. He is going to do it because He is Sovereign and because He wants to not because they deserve it.
I am thankful that God does not give me what I deserve. He is a God of Mercy. The life that I have in Christ is not one that I deserve. He has poured out His blessings on me because He wants to not because I deserve them.
I don’t know what He has in store for modern day Israel, but I know what He has in store for me. And I am enjoying His favor and grateful that for some reason only known to Him He delights in loving me.
Application
Praise the Lord! I will thank the Lord with all my heart, as I meet with his godly people! Psalm 111:1
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I give you Praise. I want to thank you with all my heart. I don’t deserve your kindness or your blessings. I don’t deserve salvation or the relationship that I have with you. Thank you for saving me. Thank you for allowing me to become one of your children. I realize that you are constantly at work in the lives of everyone around me. It is your desire that all people be saved. I pray for my children and my grandchildren that all of them would acknowledge You and walk in your way. In Jesus Name Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezekiel 25; Ezekiel 26; Ezekiel 27; Ezekiel 28; Revelation 10
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Restoration for Israel
Ezekiel 28
25 “This is what the Sovereign LORD says: The people of Israel will again live in their own land, the land I gave my servant Jacob. For I will gather them from the distant lands where I have scattered them. I will reveal to the nations of the world my holiness among my people. 26 They will live safely in Israel and build homes and plant vineyards. And when I punish the neighboring nations that treated them with contempt, they will know that I am the LORD their God.”
Observation
As bad as Israel was God told them that one-day He would restore them. He said that He would gather them back together from all the surrounding countries and they would once again live in their own land. He is going to do it because He is Sovereign and because He wants to not because they deserve it.
I am thankful that God does not give me what I deserve. He is a God of Mercy. The life that I have in Christ is not one that I deserve. He has poured out His blessings on me because He wants to not because I deserve them.
I don’t know what He has in store for modern day Israel, but I know what He has in store for me. And I am enjoying His favor and grateful that for some reason only known to Him He delights in loving me.
Application
Praise the Lord! I will thank the Lord with all my heart, as I meet with his godly people! Psalm 111:1
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I give you Praise. I want to thank you with all my heart. I don’t deserve your kindness or your blessings. I don’t deserve salvation or the relationship that I have with you. Thank you for saving me. Thank you for allowing me to become one of your children. I realize that you are constantly at work in the lives of everyone around me. It is your desire that all people be saved. I pray for my children and my grandchildren that all of them would acknowledge You and walk in your way. In Jesus Name Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Thursday, September 04, 2008
Hard Hearts
Ezekiel 22; Ezekiel 23; Ezekiel 24; Revelation 9
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Revelation 9
20 But the people who did not die in these plagues still refused to repent of their evil deeds and turn to God. They continued to worship demons and idols made of gold, silver, bronze, stone, and wood—idols that can neither see nor hear nor walk! 21 And they did not repent of their murders or their witchcraft or their sexual immorality or their thefts.
11 Their king is the angel from the bottomless pit; his name in Hebrew is Abaddon, and in Greek, Apollyon—the Destroyer.
Observation
People are either going to worship the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords or they are going to worship the king from the bottomless pit, Apollyon – the Destroyer. It is amazing to me that after all the plagues mentioned in this chapter that the people still refused to repent.
Application
I will pray for friends and family that seem to be following the angel of the bottomless pit and that seem on their way to certain destruction.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, there is so much evil in this world. I pray for protection for those that I love the most. I pray that you would soften the hearts of some of my own family so that they would repent and become Christ followers. I pray for their salvation. Satan’s plan for them is to kill, steal, and destroy. I pray that he not succeed and I pray for their salvation.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezekiel 22; Ezekiel 23; Ezekiel 24; Revelation 9
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Revelation 9
20 But the people who did not die in these plagues still refused to repent of their evil deeds and turn to God. They continued to worship demons and idols made of gold, silver, bronze, stone, and wood—idols that can neither see nor hear nor walk! 21 And they did not repent of their murders or their witchcraft or their sexual immorality or their thefts.
11 Their king is the angel from the bottomless pit; his name in Hebrew is Abaddon, and in Greek, Apollyon—the Destroyer.
Observation
People are either going to worship the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords or they are going to worship the king from the bottomless pit, Apollyon – the Destroyer. It is amazing to me that after all the plagues mentioned in this chapter that the people still refused to repent.
Application
I will pray for friends and family that seem to be following the angel of the bottomless pit and that seem on their way to certain destruction.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, there is so much evil in this world. I pray for protection for those that I love the most. I pray that you would soften the hearts of some of my own family so that they would repent and become Christ followers. I pray for their salvation. Satan’s plan for them is to kill, steal, and destroy. I pray that he not succeed and I pray for their salvation.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Wednesday, September 03, 2008
Thank You With All My Heart
Ezekiel 20; Ezekiel 21; Psalm 111; Revelation 8
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Psalm 111
1 Praise the LORD!
I will thank the LORD with all my heart as I meet with his godly people.
Observation
Halfhearted thankfulness is not thankfulness at all. Are you able to thank the Lord this morning with all your heart? How about when you get around a bunch of believers this week at church or at small group will you thank Him with everything that you’ve got!
I think that having godly people to hang around with will make a huge difference in whether you have a thankful heart or not. Some things are contagious and I believe that hanging around thankful people definitely encourages us to be look up and be thankful.
Application
I will meet with a bunch of godly people tonight at prayer meeting and give thanks with my whole heart!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I have so much to be thankful for. I have a wonderful family, the best wife in the world, and wonderful godly people that I get to pastor. So this morning I want to say, “Thank you, thank you, thank you, for being such a Wonderful Father to me. You are so good and so worthy of Praise. Thank you for even the challenges that I face everyday because they definitely cause me to look up to you for help. So Praise the LORD! I will thank the LORD with all my heart as I meet with his godly people. In Jesus Name Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezekiel 20; Ezekiel 21; Psalm 111; Revelation 8
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Psalm 111
1 Praise the LORD!
I will thank the LORD with all my heart as I meet with his godly people.
Observation
Halfhearted thankfulness is not thankfulness at all. Are you able to thank the Lord this morning with all your heart? How about when you get around a bunch of believers this week at church or at small group will you thank Him with everything that you’ve got!
I think that having godly people to hang around with will make a huge difference in whether you have a thankful heart or not. Some things are contagious and I believe that hanging around thankful people definitely encourages us to be look up and be thankful.
Application
I will meet with a bunch of godly people tonight at prayer meeting and give thanks with my whole heart!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I have so much to be thankful for. I have a wonderful family, the best wife in the world, and wonderful godly people that I get to pastor. So this morning I want to say, “Thank you, thank you, thank you, for being such a Wonderful Father to me. You are so good and so worthy of Praise. Thank you for even the challenges that I face everyday because they definitely cause me to look up to you for help. So Praise the LORD! I will thank the LORD with all my heart as I meet with his godly people. In Jesus Name Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Tuesday, September 02, 2008
Every Nation and Tribe and People and Language
Ezekiel 17; Ezekiel 18; Ezekiel 19; Revelation 7
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Revelation 7
9 After this I saw a vast crowd, too great to count, from every nation and tribe and people and language, standing in front of the throne and before the Lamb. They were clothed in white robes and held palm branches in their hands. 10 And they were shouting with a mighty shout,
“Salvation comes from our God who sits on the throne
and from the Lamb!”
11 And all the angels were standing around the throne and around the elders and the four living beings. And they fell before the throne with their faces to the ground and worshiped God.
12 They sang,
“Amen! Blessing and glory and wisdom
and thanksgiving and honor
and power and strength belong to our God
forever and ever! Amen.”
Observation
Heaven will be filled with people from everywhere, not just Baptist, not just white people, not just English speakers, no Heaven will have people from every nation and tribe and people and language!
I joke with people and tell that that they better learn Spanish because when we get to Heaven that is the language that we will be speaking! No, I am sure that it will be a Heavenly language and I am pretty sure that it will not be English!
The Great Commission tells us to take the Gospel to the entire world no matter what color, language, or even what kind of government whether hostile or friendly that the people have.
Application
I will look for someone from another nation to share Jesus with!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, you do love variety. Everyone is so different and so unique. I pray that I would look at those differences as something special and not something to look down on. I pray that you help me to love everyone and not just the folks that happen to be more like me. Thank you for our academy that does such a great job of bringing the peoples of this world under the influence of your Word. Thank you for controlling the hurricane and for protecting New Orleans from what could have happened. Storms are a display of Your Power and I know that You can turn them and change them in anyway You desire. Thank you for hearing the prayers of Your people and for sparing that city this time. In Jesus Name Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezekiel 17; Ezekiel 18; Ezekiel 19; Revelation 7
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Revelation 7
9 After this I saw a vast crowd, too great to count, from every nation and tribe and people and language, standing in front of the throne and before the Lamb. They were clothed in white robes and held palm branches in their hands. 10 And they were shouting with a mighty shout,
“Salvation comes from our God who sits on the throne
and from the Lamb!”
11 And all the angels were standing around the throne and around the elders and the four living beings. And they fell before the throne with their faces to the ground and worshiped God.
12 They sang,
“Amen! Blessing and glory and wisdom
and thanksgiving and honor
and power and strength belong to our God
forever and ever! Amen.”
Observation
Heaven will be filled with people from everywhere, not just Baptist, not just white people, not just English speakers, no Heaven will have people from every nation and tribe and people and language!
I joke with people and tell that that they better learn Spanish because when we get to Heaven that is the language that we will be speaking! No, I am sure that it will be a Heavenly language and I am pretty sure that it will not be English!
The Great Commission tells us to take the Gospel to the entire world no matter what color, language, or even what kind of government whether hostile or friendly that the people have.
Application
I will look for someone from another nation to share Jesus with!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, you do love variety. Everyone is so different and so unique. I pray that I would look at those differences as something special and not something to look down on. I pray that you help me to love everyone and not just the folks that happen to be more like me. Thank you for our academy that does such a great job of bringing the peoples of this world under the influence of your Word. Thank you for controlling the hurricane and for protecting New Orleans from what could have happened. Storms are a display of Your Power and I know that You can turn them and change them in anyway You desire. Thank you for hearing the prayers of Your people and for sparing that city this time. In Jesus Name Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Monday, September 01, 2008
Martyrs For Jesus!
Ezekiel 15; Ezekiel 16; Psalm 70; Revelation 6
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Revelation 6
9 When the Lamb broke the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of all who had been martyred for the word of God and for being faithful in their testimony. 10 They shouted to the Lord and said, “O Sovereign Lord, holy and true, how long before you judge the people who belong to this world and avenge our blood for what they have done to us?” 11 Then a white robe was given to each of them. And they were told to rest a little longer until the full number of their brothers and sisters—their fellow servants of Jesus who were to be martyred—had joined them.
Observation
When we think of dying for Christ it doesn’t mean for those living in the United States usually a physical death, but in China, the Sudan, North Korea and many other countries it is a daily reality. Torture, persecution, and a martyrs death is part of life for so many Christians in our world, but we in the USA have been protected from that kind of terrible treatment.
But in the end it looks like that in Heaven those that have died as martyrs will have special honor and special rewards … and rightly so!
Am I willing to die for Christ? It is easy to say, “yes” while living in a country where Christians are hardly persecuted, but what if I was living in the Sudan? Would I be willing then? I would hope that the answer would be “yes”.
One-day persecution like we now see in other countries could come to the United States. There is no guarantee that our country will always be the land of the free.
Application
I will pray for those believers that live in countries where to be a Christian carries with it a death warrant.
http://www.persecution.com/ The Voice of the Martyrs
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I pray for my brothers and sisters in Christ that live in countries where they are hunted down and persecuted. I pray that they would flourish and that You would use them to spread the Gospel in spite of the persecution. I pray that you would bless them. I especially pray for house church leaders in these countries that you protect them and give them supernatural strength to withstand the torture and persecution that is focused on them. You are Mighty and All Powerful and Worthy of all Praise! In Jesus Name Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezekiel 15; Ezekiel 16; Psalm 70; Revelation 6
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Revelation 6
9 When the Lamb broke the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of all who had been martyred for the word of God and for being faithful in their testimony. 10 They shouted to the Lord and said, “O Sovereign Lord, holy and true, how long before you judge the people who belong to this world and avenge our blood for what they have done to us?” 11 Then a white robe was given to each of them. And they were told to rest a little longer until the full number of their brothers and sisters—their fellow servants of Jesus who were to be martyred—had joined them.
Observation
When we think of dying for Christ it doesn’t mean for those living in the United States usually a physical death, but in China, the Sudan, North Korea and many other countries it is a daily reality. Torture, persecution, and a martyrs death is part of life for so many Christians in our world, but we in the USA have been protected from that kind of terrible treatment.
But in the end it looks like that in Heaven those that have died as martyrs will have special honor and special rewards … and rightly so!
Am I willing to die for Christ? It is easy to say, “yes” while living in a country where Christians are hardly persecuted, but what if I was living in the Sudan? Would I be willing then? I would hope that the answer would be “yes”.
One-day persecution like we now see in other countries could come to the United States. There is no guarantee that our country will always be the land of the free.
Application
I will pray for those believers that live in countries where to be a Christian carries with it a death warrant.
http://www.persecution.com/ The Voice of the Martyrs
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I pray for my brothers and sisters in Christ that live in countries where they are hunted down and persecuted. I pray that they would flourish and that You would use them to spread the Gospel in spite of the persecution. I pray that you would bless them. I especially pray for house church leaders in these countries that you protect them and give them supernatural strength to withstand the torture and persecution that is focused on them. You are Mighty and All Powerful and Worthy of all Praise! In Jesus Name Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)