Worthy is the Lamb!
Ezekiel 12; Ezekiel 13; Ezekiel 14; Revelation 5
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Scripture
Revelation 5
11 Then I looked again, and I heard the voices of thousands and millions of angels around the throne and of the living beings and the elders. 12 And they sang in a mighty chorus:
“Worthy is the Lamb who was slaughtered—
to receive power and riches
and wisdom and strength
and honor and glory and blessing.”
13 And then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea. They sang:
“Blessing and honor and glory and power
belong to the one sitting on the throne
and to the Lamb forever and ever.”
14 And the four living beings said, “Amen!” And the twenty-four elders fell down and worshiped the Lamb.
Observation
This is a glimpse of Heaven! There will be thousands and millions of angels around the throne and living beings and elders and they will be singing in a mighty chorus:
“Worthy is the Lamb who was slaughtered—
to receive power and riches
and wisdom and strength
and honor and glory and blessing.”
We know the end of the story. One day we that know Christ will experience what John is trying to describe in this passage. Millions of angels and millions of people all worshiping around the throne is way more than we can even imagine, but it is going to happen.
Application
I will give Him praise for He is worthy of honor and glory and blessing!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I will give you praise! You are worthy of honor and glory and blessing. Yes, “Worthy is the Lamb who was slaughtered— to receive power and riches and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and blessing. Blessing and honor and glory and power belong to the one sitting on the throne and to the Lamb forever and ever.”
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Monday, August 31, 2009
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Do You Need a New Heart?
Ezekiel 8; Ezekiel 9; Ezekiel 10; Ezekiel 11; Revelation 4
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Scripture
Revelation 4
19 And I will give them singleness of heart and put a new spirit within them. I will take away their stony, stubborn heart and give them a tender, responsive heart, 20 so they will obey my decrees and regulations. Then they will truly be my people, and I will be their God.
Observation
How is your heart? Is it stony and stubborn? Do you need a tender, responsive heart today? I want a tender, responsive heart.
God wants us to have singleness of heart and He wants to put a new spirit in us. Do you have singleness of heart? Do you have a new spirit within you?
If you have surrendered your life to Christ and if you have asked Him to come into your life as your Lord and Savior then Jesus has given you a new heart and you have a new Spirit living in you today.
Application
I am so glad that Jesus saved me.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for giving me a new heart. Your Word says that if any man be in Christ then he is a new creation. Thank You for the Extreme Makeover. Thank You for the new heart. I pray that You keep my heart tender and responsive toward You and those around me.
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Ezekiel 8; Ezekiel 9; Ezekiel 10; Ezekiel 11; Revelation 4
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Scripture
Revelation 4
19 And I will give them singleness of heart and put a new spirit within them. I will take away their stony, stubborn heart and give them a tender, responsive heart, 20 so they will obey my decrees and regulations. Then they will truly be my people, and I will be their God.
Observation
How is your heart? Is it stony and stubborn? Do you need a tender, responsive heart today? I want a tender, responsive heart.
God wants us to have singleness of heart and He wants to put a new spirit in us. Do you have singleness of heart? Do you have a new spirit within you?
If you have surrendered your life to Christ and if you have asked Him to come into your life as your Lord and Savior then Jesus has given you a new heart and you have a new Spirit living in you today.
Application
I am so glad that Jesus saved me.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for giving me a new heart. Your Word says that if any man be in Christ then he is a new creation. Thank You for the Extreme Makeover. Thank You for the new heart. I pray that You keep my heart tender and responsive toward You and those around me.
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Friday, August 28, 2009
You Don’t Love Me Like You Used To!
Ezekiel 1; Ezekiel 2; Ezekiel 3; Revelation 2
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Scripture
Rev. 2:4
"Yet there is one thing wrong; you don't love me as at first!"
Observation
There was a time when Jesus asked Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” He is asking us that question this morning, “Do we love Him?” How is your love for Christ today? Did you wake up this morning thinking about Him? During the night were you talking to Him?
If Jesus was standing face to face with you today and talking with you would He say, “You don’t love me as at first”. Those would be sad words to hear wouldn’t they? What would He say to us today?
A few weeks ago I read 1 John 5:21 that said, "Dear children, keep away from anything that might take God’s place in your hearts."
Is our love for Christ and his church like it was at first? Or has something moved in and taken God’s place in our hearts?
Application
I will make sure that nothing is taking God’s place in my heart.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I love you. I don’t want anything to take Your place in my heart. Don’t ever let my love for You grow cold. Do whatever it takes to keep me close to You. I trust You and I know that You only have good things in mind for me and for Kathy because we love You. Give our staff wisdom as we meet together tonight. May there be oneness of heart as we seek to know Your direction for our church.
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Ezekiel 1; Ezekiel 2; Ezekiel 3; Revelation 2
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Rev. 2:4
"Yet there is one thing wrong; you don't love me as at first!"
Observation
There was a time when Jesus asked Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” He is asking us that question this morning, “Do we love Him?” How is your love for Christ today? Did you wake up this morning thinking about Him? During the night were you talking to Him?
If Jesus was standing face to face with you today and talking with you would He say, “You don’t love me as at first”. Those would be sad words to hear wouldn’t they? What would He say to us today?
A few weeks ago I read 1 John 5:21 that said, "Dear children, keep away from anything that might take God’s place in your hearts."
Is our love for Christ and his church like it was at first? Or has something moved in and taken God’s place in our hearts?
Application
I will make sure that nothing is taking God’s place in my heart.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I love you. I don’t want anything to take Your place in my heart. Don’t ever let my love for You grow cold. Do whatever it takes to keep me close to You. I trust You and I know that You only have good things in mind for me and for Kathy because we love You. Give our staff wisdom as we meet together tonight. May there be oneness of heart as we seek to know Your direction for our church.
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Thursday, August 27, 2009
Do You Need a Good Ally?
Jeremiah 52; Revelation 1; Psalm 143; Psalm 144
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Scripture
Psalm 144
1 Praise the LORD, who is my rock.
He trains my hands for war
and gives my fingers skill for battle.
2 He is my loving ally and my fortress,
my tower of safety, my rescuer.
He is my shield, and I take refuge in him.
He makes the nations submit to me.
Observation
Who is your best friend? Who is your strongest ally? David knew who his best ally was; The Lord was his loving ally. An ally is someone that comes and fights for you. An ally is someone that sticks up for you.
Is God your loving ally? Is Jesus your best friend?
Application
I will praise the Lord because He is my strongest ally.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, you are my rock. You train my hands for war and you give my fingers skill for battle. You are my loving ally and you are my fortress. You are my tower of safety, and my rescuer. You are my shield, and I take refuge in You.
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Jeremiah 52; Revelation 1; Psalm 143; Psalm 144
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Psalm 144
1 Praise the LORD, who is my rock.
He trains my hands for war
and gives my fingers skill for battle.
2 He is my loving ally and my fortress,
my tower of safety, my rescuer.
He is my shield, and I take refuge in him.
He makes the nations submit to me.
Observation
Who is your best friend? Who is your strongest ally? David knew who his best ally was; The Lord was his loving ally. An ally is someone that comes and fights for you. An ally is someone that sticks up for you.
Is God your loving ally? Is Jesus your best friend?
Application
I will praise the Lord because He is my strongest ally.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, you are my rock. You train my hands for war and you give my fingers skill for battle. You are my loving ally and you are my fortress. You are my tower of safety, and my rescuer. You are my shield, and I take refuge in You.
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Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Partnering For Jesus!
Jeremiah 50; Jeremiah 51; 3 John 1
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Scripture
3 John 1
5 Dear friend, you are being faithful to God when you care for the traveling teachers who pass through, even though they are strangers to you. 6 They have told the church here of your loving friendship. Please continue providing for such teachers in a manner that pleases God. 7 For they are traveling for the Lord, and they accept nothing from people who are not believers. 8 So we ourselves should support them so that we can be their partners as they teach the truth.
Observation
Traveling teachers might be our modern day evangelist or maybe even our missionaries that go all over the world. People that travel from church to church from place to place need the support of the church. As they go and reach people for Christ we can actually go with them if we are helping them financially.
I have enjoyed watching some of our senior adults partner with some of our younger adults as these younger adults went on a mission trip to Cuba. As these young adults came back and shared their mission experience I could see the joy in the faces of those senior adults that gave to make the mission trip possible.
Not everyone is called to be traveling preachers and teachers but those that are need our support. Who are you supporting?
Are you willing to give?
Application
I will give something to a traveling teacher/preacher this week.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You that you have made a way for us to partner with those that take the Gospel to places where we can’t. Bless our missionaries today that live on what we are willing to give them. I pray for our missionary friends today that you bless them. I pray that you give them energy, give them the desires of their hearts, answer their prayers and make their plans successful.
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Jeremiah 50; Jeremiah 51; 3 John 1
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Scripture
3 John 1
5 Dear friend, you are being faithful to God when you care for the traveling teachers who pass through, even though they are strangers to you. 6 They have told the church here of your loving friendship. Please continue providing for such teachers in a manner that pleases God. 7 For they are traveling for the Lord, and they accept nothing from people who are not believers. 8 So we ourselves should support them so that we can be their partners as they teach the truth.
Observation
Traveling teachers might be our modern day evangelist or maybe even our missionaries that go all over the world. People that travel from church to church from place to place need the support of the church. As they go and reach people for Christ we can actually go with them if we are helping them financially.
I have enjoyed watching some of our senior adults partner with some of our younger adults as these younger adults went on a mission trip to Cuba. As these young adults came back and shared their mission experience I could see the joy in the faces of those senior adults that gave to make the mission trip possible.
Not everyone is called to be traveling preachers and teachers but those that are need our support. Who are you supporting?
Are you willing to give?
Application
I will give something to a traveling teacher/preacher this week.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You that you have made a way for us to partner with those that take the Gospel to places where we can’t. Bless our missionaries today that live on what we are willing to give them. I pray for our missionary friends today that you bless them. I pray that you give them energy, give them the desires of their hearts, answer their prayers and make their plans successful.
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Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Commanded to Love One Another!
Jeremiah 37; Jeremiah 38; Jeremiah 39; Psalm 79; 2 John 1
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Scripture
2 John 1
5 I am writing to remind you, dear friends, that we should love one another. This is not a new commandment, but one we have had from the beginning. 6 Love means doing what God has commanded us, and he has commanded us to love one another, just as you heard from the beginning.
Observation
Have you noticed how many God has to remind us to “love one another”! You would think that would be our nature, but our nature (old nature) is to do just the opposite isn’t it!
We are commanded by God to love one another. It is impossible for us to love like God wants us to love in our own strength.
The highest form of love is forgiveness. There are people that we don’t want to forgive, but God commands us to forgive them. In fact, if we don’t forgive others God says that He can’t forgive us.
Our example is Jesus: think about how much He loves us; think about how He has forgiven us. We don’t deserve it, but He loves us. We don’t deserve His forgiveness, but He forgives us.
Maybe it is time to be obedient and love that person that you have been so mad at. Maybe it is time to forgive that person who hurt you.
Un-forgiveness hurts you way more than the person that you are refusing to forgive!
We are so un-like God when we refuse to love someone and we are so un-like God when we refuse to forgive someone!
Application
Love is doing what God has commanded us to do. I will love people today as God has commanded me to do.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to not hold grudges. Help me to love people like You want me to love people. Thank You for loving me even though I am such a sinner and even though I don’t deserve it. Thank You for forgiving me even though I don’t deserve it. You are an Awesome God.
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Jeremiah 37; Jeremiah 38; Jeremiah 39; Psalm 79; 2 John 1
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Scripture
2 John 1
5 I am writing to remind you, dear friends, that we should love one another. This is not a new commandment, but one we have had from the beginning. 6 Love means doing what God has commanded us, and he has commanded us to love one another, just as you heard from the beginning.
Observation
Have you noticed how many God has to remind us to “love one another”! You would think that would be our nature, but our nature (old nature) is to do just the opposite isn’t it!
We are commanded by God to love one another. It is impossible for us to love like God wants us to love in our own strength.
The highest form of love is forgiveness. There are people that we don’t want to forgive, but God commands us to forgive them. In fact, if we don’t forgive others God says that He can’t forgive us.
Our example is Jesus: think about how much He loves us; think about how He has forgiven us. We don’t deserve it, but He loves us. We don’t deserve His forgiveness, but He forgives us.
Maybe it is time to be obedient and love that person that you have been so mad at. Maybe it is time to forgive that person who hurt you.
Un-forgiveness hurts you way more than the person that you are refusing to forgive!
We are so un-like God when we refuse to love someone and we are so un-like God when we refuse to forgive someone!
Application
Love is doing what God has commanded us to do. I will love people today as God has commanded me to do.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to not hold grudges. Help me to love people like You want me to love people. Thank You for loving me even though I am such a sinner and even though I don’t deserve it. Thank You for forgiving me even though I don’t deserve it. You are an Awesome God.
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Monday, August 24, 2009
Don’t Let Anything Take God’s Place in Your Hearts!
Jeremiah 33; Jeremiah 34; Psalm 74; 1 John 5
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Scripture
1 John 5
21 Dear children, keep away from anything that might take God’s place in your hearts.
Observation
What a great chapter! If you haven’t read 1 John 5 yet today then take time to read it. Read it slowly. Look at all the “we know’s” in the chapter. This chapter is loaded with good stuff for us today.
There is the real danger for us to allow “things” to take God’s place in our hearts. Those “things” may even be “people” but I think mostly John is thinking about other “idols” like addictions, hobbies, toys, possessions, careers, but it could also include relationships. Anything means any thing! It is all-inclusive!
Application
I will make sure that nothing is taking God’s place in my heart!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I love your Word. Thank You for giving us Your Word to guide us through this life. Thank You for the Word that was preached this weekend. I pray that you bless Hugh and Millie Roberts and Tommy Green as they faithfully preach Your Word on a weekly basis. I pray that You bless Hugh and Millie in their mission endeavors. Give them good health to be able to continue going to Africa and India and other places preaching the Gospel. Thank You for our church. I am so proud of them. It was a wonderful day of worship yesterday. You are an Awesome God.
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Jeremiah 33; Jeremiah 34; Psalm 74; 1 John 5
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Scripture
1 John 5
21 Dear children, keep away from anything that might take God’s place in your hearts.
Observation
What a great chapter! If you haven’t read 1 John 5 yet today then take time to read it. Read it slowly. Look at all the “we know’s” in the chapter. This chapter is loaded with good stuff for us today.
There is the real danger for us to allow “things” to take God’s place in our hearts. Those “things” may even be “people” but I think mostly John is thinking about other “idols” like addictions, hobbies, toys, possessions, careers, but it could also include relationships. Anything means any thing! It is all-inclusive!
Application
I will make sure that nothing is taking God’s place in my heart!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I love your Word. Thank You for giving us Your Word to guide us through this life. Thank You for the Word that was preached this weekend. I pray that you bless Hugh and Millie Roberts and Tommy Green as they faithfully preach Your Word on a weekly basis. I pray that You bless Hugh and Millie in their mission endeavors. Give them good health to be able to continue going to Africa and India and other places preaching the Gospel. Thank You for our church. I am so proud of them. It was a wonderful day of worship yesterday. You are an Awesome God.
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Sunday, August 23, 2009
Nothing is Too Hard for God!
Jeremiah 31; Jeremiah 32; 1 John 4
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Scripture
Jeremiah 32
17 “O Sovereign LORD! You made the heavens and earth by your strong hand and powerful arm. Nothing is too hard for you!
26 Then this message came to Jeremiah from the LORD: 27 “I am the LORD, the God of all the peoples of the world. Is anything too hard for me?
Observation
Nothing is too hard for hard means that what ever is going on your life it is not beyond the power of God to fix. He can do anything. Nothing is too hard for Him.
There are many things in our lives that are just too hard for us. Why…because we are not God. When we hit one of those things that are just too impossible then we have the opportunity to trust God and watch Him work. It could be sickness, a bad relationship, or a financial disaster, or an addiction that has completely enslaved you take it to the “Sovereign Lord that made the heavens and earth with his strong hand and powerful arm.” Nothing is too hard for Him.”
What do you have facing you that is hard, that is impossible? Take it to the Lord and watch Him work!
Application
I will take the impossible to God who takes the “im” out of “impossible”!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, there are some things in my life that seem impossible. But I know that for You there is no such thing as “impossible”. So help me with my list of “impossibles” today. I turn them over to you.
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Jeremiah 31; Jeremiah 32; 1 John 4
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Scripture
Jeremiah 32
17 “O Sovereign LORD! You made the heavens and earth by your strong hand and powerful arm. Nothing is too hard for you!
26 Then this message came to Jeremiah from the LORD: 27 “I am the LORD, the God of all the peoples of the world. Is anything too hard for me?
Observation
Nothing is too hard for hard means that what ever is going on your life it is not beyond the power of God to fix. He can do anything. Nothing is too hard for Him.
There are many things in our lives that are just too hard for us. Why…because we are not God. When we hit one of those things that are just too impossible then we have the opportunity to trust God and watch Him work. It could be sickness, a bad relationship, or a financial disaster, or an addiction that has completely enslaved you take it to the “Sovereign Lord that made the heavens and earth with his strong hand and powerful arm.” Nothing is too hard for Him.”
What do you have facing you that is hard, that is impossible? Take it to the Lord and watch Him work!
Application
I will take the impossible to God who takes the “im” out of “impossible”!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, there are some things in my life that seem impossible. But I know that for You there is no such thing as “impossible”. So help me with my list of “impossibles” today. I turn them over to you.
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Saturday, August 22, 2009
God’s Plan For Us…
Jeremiah 28; Jeremiah 29; Jeremiah 30; 1 John 3
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Scripture
Jeremiah 29
11 For I know the plans I have for you,” says the LORD. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. 12 In those days when you pray, I will listen. 13 If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me.
Observation
I know God’s plan for my life. They are plans for good and not for disaster. He plans to give me a future and a hope.
Some days we forget that if we are Christians then God does have a special plan for our lives. He does plan to prosper us. He wants to bless us. I think the key found in the rest of the verse where Jeremiah quotes God and says, “If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me.”
If we live wholeheartedly focused on the things of God then God can and will bless us.
Application
I will live wholeheartedly today for the Lord.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me live for you 100%. Help me stay focused on what You would have me do today and bring people to my mind that I need to pray for or that I need to go visit. I pray for those that will be at the funeral that I will be preaching in just a couple of hours. I pray that You comfort them and minister to them through Your Word. I pray that tomorrow on the Lord’s Day that You do a mighty work in the lives of the people that attend our church. I pray that people will be saved.
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Jeremiah 28; Jeremiah 29; Jeremiah 30; 1 John 3
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Scripture
Jeremiah 29
11 For I know the plans I have for you,” says the LORD. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. 12 In those days when you pray, I will listen. 13 If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me.
Observation
I know God’s plan for my life. They are plans for good and not for disaster. He plans to give me a future and a hope.
Some days we forget that if we are Christians then God does have a special plan for our lives. He does plan to prosper us. He wants to bless us. I think the key found in the rest of the verse where Jeremiah quotes God and says, “If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me.”
If we live wholeheartedly focused on the things of God then God can and will bless us.
Application
I will live wholeheartedly today for the Lord.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me live for you 100%. Help me stay focused on what You would have me do today and bring people to my mind that I need to pray for or that I need to go visit. I pray for those that will be at the funeral that I will be preaching in just a couple of hours. I pray that You comfort them and minister to them through Your Word. I pray that tomorrow on the Lord’s Day that You do a mighty work in the lives of the people that attend our church. I pray that people will be saved.
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Friday, August 21, 2009
Live Like Jesus Did
Jeremiah 21; Jeremiah 24; Jeremiah 27; Psalm 118; 1 John 2
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Scripture
1 John 2
6 Those who say they live in God should live their lives as Jesus did.
Observation
How did Jesus live his life? He spent his time ministering to people. He did not accumulate possessions/stuff. He focused everyday doing God’s will. He spent his time sharing the Good News!
Application
I will focus on the needs of the people around me and help them move closer to Jesus.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me spend my life living like Jesus did.
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Jeremiah 21; Jeremiah 24; Jeremiah 27; Psalm 118; 1 John 2
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Scripture
1 John 2
6 Those who say they live in God should live their lives as Jesus did.
Observation
How did Jesus live his life? He spent his time ministering to people. He did not accumulate possessions/stuff. He focused everyday doing God’s will. He spent his time sharing the Good News!
Application
I will focus on the needs of the people around me and help them move closer to Jesus.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me spend my life living like Jesus did.
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Thursday, August 20, 2009
May His Face Smile on You…
Jeremiah 48; Jeremiah 49; Psalm 67; 1 John 1
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Scripture
Psalm 67
1 May God be merciful and bless us.
May his face smile with favor on us.
Observation
May God be merciful and bless you. May his face smile with favor on you!
Application
I will pray this blessing on Kathy before I leave the house this morning.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, may God be merciful and bless you. May his face smile with favor on you!
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Jeremiah 48; Jeremiah 49; Psalm 67; 1 John 1
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Scripture
Psalm 67
1 May God be merciful and bless us.
May his face smile with favor on us.
Observation
May God be merciful and bless you. May his face smile with favor on you!
Application
I will pray this blessing on Kathy before I leave the house this morning.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, may God be merciful and bless you. May his face smile with favor on you!
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Wednesday, August 19, 2009
The Gospels Contain Just a Glimpse Of All That Jesus Did…
Jeremiah 45; Jeremiah 46; Jeremiah 47; Psalm 105; John 21
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Scripture
John 21
24 This disciple is the one who testifies to these events and has recorded them here. And we know that his account of these things is accurate.
25 Jesus also did many other things. If they were all written down, I suppose the whole world could not contain the books that would be written.
Observation
When we read the Gospels, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John we sometimes think that we are reading the entire story of the life of Jesus. But John says that we are only getting a little glimpse of what Jesus did during his three years of ministry. Wow! John says that the whole world could not contain the books it would take to write down everything!
He did His entire earthly ministry in just 3 years. Looking back on the three last years of my ministry I wonder what kind of book could be written. I wonder if it would even fill one book!
Application
I will concentrate today on staying focused on Jesus and what He has called me to do.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me stayed focused on the ministry before me. I pray that you bring people into my life that I can move closer to Jesus. I pray for our staff today. I pray that you give them energy. I pray that you answer their prayers, give them the desires of their hearts, and bless them.
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Jeremiah 45; Jeremiah 46; Jeremiah 47; Psalm 105; John 21
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Scripture
John 21
24 This disciple is the one who testifies to these events and has recorded them here. And we know that his account of these things is accurate.
25 Jesus also did many other things. If they were all written down, I suppose the whole world could not contain the books that would be written.
Observation
When we read the Gospels, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John we sometimes think that we are reading the entire story of the life of Jesus. But John says that we are only getting a little glimpse of what Jesus did during his three years of ministry. Wow! John says that the whole world could not contain the books it would take to write down everything!
He did His entire earthly ministry in just 3 years. Looking back on the three last years of my ministry I wonder what kind of book could be written. I wonder if it would even fill one book!
Application
I will concentrate today on staying focused on Jesus and what He has called me to do.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me stayed focused on the ministry before me. I pray that you bring people into my life that I can move closer to Jesus. I pray for our staff today. I pray that you give them energy. I pray that you answer their prayers, give them the desires of their hearts, and bless them.
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Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Don’t Be Faithless Any Longer!
Jeremiah 26; Jeremiah 35; Jeremiah 36; John 20
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Scripture
John 20
24 One of the twelve disciples, Thomas (nicknamed the Twin), was not with the others when Jesus came. 25 They told him, “We have seen the Lord!”
But he replied, “I won’t believe it unless I see the nail wounds in his hands, put my fingers into them, and place my hand into the wound in his side.”
26 Eight days later the disciples were together again, and this time Thomas was with them. The doors were locked; but suddenly, as before, Jesus was standing among them. “Peace be with you,” he said. 27 Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here, and look at my hands. Put your hand into the wound in my side. Don’t be faithless any longer. Believe!”
28 “My Lord and my God!” Thomas exclaimed.
29 Then Jesus told him, “You believe because you have seen me. Blessed are those who believe without seeing me.”
Observation
When I talk with people at Mission Tampa about their prospects of going to Heaven almost all of them believe that they are Heaven bound.
As I talk with them I realize that most of them think that they are going to Heaven because of their fairly good behavior.
Almost none that I talk to even mention the need of having faith and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ. What is even more amazing is that many of them go to church on a fairly regular basis.
It is amazing!
Application
I will ask our people on Sunday to write down the answer to the two questions that I ask folks at Mission Tampa!
1. If you were to die today where would you spend eternity?
2. If you were standing at Heaven’s Gate and God asked you, “Why should I let you into my Heaven?” What would you say to Him?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, open the eyes of people’s hearts so that they can understand the Gospel. They hear but they don’t hear. I pray for the people that attend our church that they could answer those two questions correctly because they have a personal relationship with Christ.
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Jeremiah 26; Jeremiah 35; Jeremiah 36; John 20
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Scripture
John 20
24 One of the twelve disciples, Thomas (nicknamed the Twin), was not with the others when Jesus came. 25 They told him, “We have seen the Lord!”
But he replied, “I won’t believe it unless I see the nail wounds in his hands, put my fingers into them, and place my hand into the wound in his side.”
26 Eight days later the disciples were together again, and this time Thomas was with them. The doors were locked; but suddenly, as before, Jesus was standing among them. “Peace be with you,” he said. 27 Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here, and look at my hands. Put your hand into the wound in my side. Don’t be faithless any longer. Believe!”
28 “My Lord and my God!” Thomas exclaimed.
29 Then Jesus told him, “You believe because you have seen me. Blessed are those who believe without seeing me.”
Observation
When I talk with people at Mission Tampa about their prospects of going to Heaven almost all of them believe that they are Heaven bound.
As I talk with them I realize that most of them think that they are going to Heaven because of their fairly good behavior.
Almost none that I talk to even mention the need of having faith and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ. What is even more amazing is that many of them go to church on a fairly regular basis.
It is amazing!
Application
I will ask our people on Sunday to write down the answer to the two questions that I ask folks at Mission Tampa!
1. If you were to die today where would you spend eternity?
2. If you were standing at Heaven’s Gate and God asked you, “Why should I let you into my Heaven?” What would you say to Him?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, open the eyes of people’s hearts so that they can understand the Gospel. They hear but they don’t hear. I pray for the people that attend our church that they could answer those two questions correctly because they have a personal relationship with Christ.
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Monday, August 17, 2009
Power!
Jeremiah 23; Jeremiah 24; Jeremiah 25; John 19
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Scripture
John 19
1 Then Pilate had Jesus flogged with a lead-tipped whip. 2 The soldiers wove a crown of thorns and put it on his head, and they put a purple robe on him. 3 “Hail! King of the Jews!” they mocked, as they slapped him across the face.
4 Pilate went outside again and said to the people, “I am going to bring him out to you now, but understand clearly that I find him not guilty.” 5 Then Jesus came out wearing the crown of thorns and the purple robe. And Pilate said, “Look, here is the man!”
6 When they saw him, the leading priests and Temple guards began shouting, “Crucify him! Crucify him!”
“Take him yourselves and crucify him,” Pilate said. “I find him not guilty.”
7 The Jewish leaders replied, “By our law he ought to die because he called himself the Son of God.”
8 When Pilate heard this, he was more frightened than ever. 9 He took Jesus back into the headquarters again and asked him, “Where are you from?” But Jesus gave no answer. 10 “Why don’t you talk to me?” Pilate demanded. “Don’t you realize that I have the power to release you or crucify you?”
11 Then Jesus said, “You would have no power over me at all unless it were given to you from above. So the one who handed me over to you has the greater sin.”
Observation
Authority and Power are given to us for a reason and it can be taken away. Pilate had the power to crucify Jesus or set Him free, but Jesus reminded Pilate and He reminds us that all power and all authority come from above.
If you are in a position of power it has been given to you. You should be a good steward of that power and you should remember that it could be taken away. It is a good reminder to us that are in full time ministry. We need to be very careful with the authority that we have been given. It can be a good thing or it can become something very bad and evil.
Pilate was face to face with the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords and yet he couldn’t see it because of his desire to hold on to his power and authority. The scriptures say that Pilate was frightened by Jesus’ words but not enough to yield his life to Jesus.
What position of power or authority do you hold today? Maybe you are a Mom or Dad, or maybe you have some position in the church, or a responsibility in your community just remember that your influence changes with time so take advantage of the opportunities to do good right now while you have the chance!
Application
I will use my influence to move people closer to Jesus.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me use my influence to move people closer to the kingdom. Keep me from sin. Don’t let me abuse the authority that you have given me. Thank You for our church. Thank You for my family. Help me live a life that reflects my relationship with You. You are the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Thank You for taking the punishment for my sins on the cross.
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Jeremiah 23; Jeremiah 24; Jeremiah 25; John 19
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Scripture
John 19
1 Then Pilate had Jesus flogged with a lead-tipped whip. 2 The soldiers wove a crown of thorns and put it on his head, and they put a purple robe on him. 3 “Hail! King of the Jews!” they mocked, as they slapped him across the face.
4 Pilate went outside again and said to the people, “I am going to bring him out to you now, but understand clearly that I find him not guilty.” 5 Then Jesus came out wearing the crown of thorns and the purple robe. And Pilate said, “Look, here is the man!”
6 When they saw him, the leading priests and Temple guards began shouting, “Crucify him! Crucify him!”
“Take him yourselves and crucify him,” Pilate said. “I find him not guilty.”
7 The Jewish leaders replied, “By our law he ought to die because he called himself the Son of God.”
8 When Pilate heard this, he was more frightened than ever. 9 He took Jesus back into the headquarters again and asked him, “Where are you from?” But Jesus gave no answer. 10 “Why don’t you talk to me?” Pilate demanded. “Don’t you realize that I have the power to release you or crucify you?”
11 Then Jesus said, “You would have no power over me at all unless it were given to you from above. So the one who handed me over to you has the greater sin.”
Observation
Authority and Power are given to us for a reason and it can be taken away. Pilate had the power to crucify Jesus or set Him free, but Jesus reminded Pilate and He reminds us that all power and all authority come from above.
If you are in a position of power it has been given to you. You should be a good steward of that power and you should remember that it could be taken away. It is a good reminder to us that are in full time ministry. We need to be very careful with the authority that we have been given. It can be a good thing or it can become something very bad and evil.
Pilate was face to face with the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords and yet he couldn’t see it because of his desire to hold on to his power and authority. The scriptures say that Pilate was frightened by Jesus’ words but not enough to yield his life to Jesus.
What position of power or authority do you hold today? Maybe you are a Mom or Dad, or maybe you have some position in the church, or a responsibility in your community just remember that your influence changes with time so take advantage of the opportunities to do good right now while you have the chance!
Application
I will use my influence to move people closer to Jesus.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me use my influence to move people closer to the kingdom. Keep me from sin. Don’t let me abuse the authority that you have given me. Thank You for our church. Thank You for my family. Help me live a life that reflects my relationship with You. You are the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Thank You for taking the punishment for my sins on the cross.
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Sunday, August 16, 2009
What is the Truth?
2 Kings 24; Jeremiah 22; Psalm 112; John 18
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Scripture
John 18
33 Then Pilate went back into his headquarters and called for Jesus to be brought to him. “Are you the king of the Jews?” he asked him.
34 Jesus replied, “Is this your own question, or did others tell you about me?”
35 “Am I a Jew?” Pilate retorted. “Your own people and their leading priests brought you to me for trial. Why? What have you done?”
36 Jesus answered, “My Kingdom is not an earthly kingdom. If it were, my followers would fight to keep me from being handed over to the Jewish leaders. But my Kingdom is not of this world.”
37 Pilate said, “So you are a king?”
Jesus responded, “You say I am a king. Actually, I was born and came into the world to testify to the truth. All who love the truth recognize that what I say is true.”
38 “What is truth?” Pilate asked. Then he went out again to the people and told them, “He is not guilty of any crime. 39 But you have a custom of asking me to release one prisoner each year at Passover. Would you like me to release this ‘King of the Jews’?”
40 But they shouted back, “No! Not this man. We want Barabbas!” (Barabbas was a revolutionary.)
Observation
Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. John 14:6
Pilate was standing next to the Truth, but missed it. He crucified the Truth. But Jesus is not about to stay in a tomb. His kingdom is not of this world. The King of the Jews is also the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords. There is no one like Him. And Pilate rejected the Truth.
I accepted Christ when I was 19 years old. It was at 19 years old that Jesus set me free. This world is full of delusion and lies. Don’t miss out on knowing Jesus. He will set you free.
Application
I will share the Good News that Jesus is Alive and He wants to set people free.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, Pilate had no power over Jesus. Jesus could have walked away from those folks if He had wanted to do so. He allowed Himself to be crucified. He suffered for me. He suffered for those around me so that we could be set free from sin. I pray today that people would be set free from sin. I pray today that You would be glorified in our worship services.
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2 Kings 24; Jeremiah 22; Psalm 112; John 18
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Scripture
John 18
33 Then Pilate went back into his headquarters and called for Jesus to be brought to him. “Are you the king of the Jews?” he asked him.
34 Jesus replied, “Is this your own question, or did others tell you about me?”
35 “Am I a Jew?” Pilate retorted. “Your own people and their leading priests brought you to me for trial. Why? What have you done?”
36 Jesus answered, “My Kingdom is not an earthly kingdom. If it were, my followers would fight to keep me from being handed over to the Jewish leaders. But my Kingdom is not of this world.”
37 Pilate said, “So you are a king?”
Jesus responded, “You say I am a king. Actually, I was born and came into the world to testify to the truth. All who love the truth recognize that what I say is true.”
38 “What is truth?” Pilate asked. Then he went out again to the people and told them, “He is not guilty of any crime. 39 But you have a custom of asking me to release one prisoner each year at Passover. Would you like me to release this ‘King of the Jews’?”
40 But they shouted back, “No! Not this man. We want Barabbas!” (Barabbas was a revolutionary.)
Observation
Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. John 14:6
Pilate was standing next to the Truth, but missed it. He crucified the Truth. But Jesus is not about to stay in a tomb. His kingdom is not of this world. The King of the Jews is also the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords. There is no one like Him. And Pilate rejected the Truth.
I accepted Christ when I was 19 years old. It was at 19 years old that Jesus set me free. This world is full of delusion and lies. Don’t miss out on knowing Jesus. He will set you free.
Application
I will share the Good News that Jesus is Alive and He wants to set people free.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, Pilate had no power over Jesus. Jesus could have walked away from those folks if He had wanted to do so. He allowed Himself to be crucified. He suffered for me. He suffered for those around me so that we could be set free from sin. I pray today that people would be set free from sin. I pray today that You would be glorified in our worship services.
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Saturday, August 15, 2009
Jesus is Interceding For Us!
Jeremiah 18; Jeremiah 19; Jeremiah 20; Psalm 93; John 17
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Scripture
John 17
15 I’m not asking you to take them out of the world, but to keep them safe from the evil one. 16 They do not belong to this world any more than I do.
Observation
Hebrews 7
24 But because Jesus lives forever, his priesthood lasts forever. 25 Therefore he is able, once and forever, to save those who come to God through him. He lives forever to intercede with God on their behalf.
Jesus prayed for us in John 17 and Hebrews 7 says that He lives forever to intercede with God on our behalf. He is on our side today. He is helping us through all of the trials and troubles of life if we know Him as Lord and Savior.
Today Jesus is praying for me. Is He praying for you?
Application
Intercession is the most important work we have as believers. Who are you praying for today? Who am I praying for? It does really matter that we pray for one another and for those that don’t yet know Jesus!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I will pray for everyone that the Lord brings to my mind today. I pray for our staff right now. Father, I pray that You bless them and their families today. Give them Your energy and give them Your thoughts and ideas. Give them a burdened heart for people that do not know You.
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Jeremiah 18; Jeremiah 19; Jeremiah 20; Psalm 93; John 17
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Scripture
John 17
15 I’m not asking you to take them out of the world, but to keep them safe from the evil one. 16 They do not belong to this world any more than I do.
Observation
Hebrews 7
24 But because Jesus lives forever, his priesthood lasts forever. 25 Therefore he is able, once and forever, to save those who come to God through him. He lives forever to intercede with God on their behalf.
Jesus prayed for us in John 17 and Hebrews 7 says that He lives forever to intercede with God on our behalf. He is on our side today. He is helping us through all of the trials and troubles of life if we know Him as Lord and Savior.
Today Jesus is praying for me. Is He praying for you?
Application
Intercession is the most important work we have as believers. Who are you praying for today? Who am I praying for? It does really matter that we pray for one another and for those that don’t yet know Jesus!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I will pray for everyone that the Lord brings to my mind today. I pray for our staff right now. Father, I pray that You bless them and their families today. Give them Your energy and give them Your thoughts and ideas. Give them a burdened heart for people that do not know You.
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Friday, August 14, 2009
Take Heart!
Jeremiah 16; Jeremiah 17; Psalm 96; John 16
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Scripture
John 16
31 Jesus asked, “Do you finally believe? 32 But the time is coming—indeed it’s here now—when you will be scattered, each one going his own way, leaving me alone. Yet I am not alone because the Father is with me. 33 I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”
Observation
In this world you will have many trials and sorrows, but take heart Jesus says, because He has overcome the world.
Trouble free living is not realistic. Sometimes we think that if we are walking close to God then we will be problem free and the truth is many times just the opposite. The disciples were close to Jesus, the prophets also walked with God and both groups lived with trials and trouble.
Application
I will take heart today and walk in victory!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for overcoming this world. We know that even though we may experience trials and trouble here on earth we will ultimately be victorious. Thank You for the peace that I have in You. Give me wisdom for this day. Open my eyes and show me where to walk.
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Jeremiah 16; Jeremiah 17; Psalm 96; John 16
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Scripture
John 16
31 Jesus asked, “Do you finally believe? 32 But the time is coming—indeed it’s here now—when you will be scattered, each one going his own way, leaving me alone. Yet I am not alone because the Father is with me. 33 I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”
Observation
In this world you will have many trials and sorrows, but take heart Jesus says, because He has overcome the world.
Trouble free living is not realistic. Sometimes we think that if we are walking close to God then we will be problem free and the truth is many times just the opposite. The disciples were close to Jesus, the prophets also walked with God and both groups lived with trials and trouble.
Application
I will take heart today and walk in victory!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for overcoming this world. We know that even though we may experience trials and trouble here on earth we will ultimately be victorious. Thank You for the peace that I have in You. Give me wisdom for this day. Open my eyes and show me where to walk.
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Thursday, August 13, 2009
Your Words Are My Joy and My Delight!
Jeremiah 13; Jeremiah 14; Jeremiah 15; John 15
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Scripture
Jeremiah 15
16 When I discovered your words, I devoured them.
They are my joy and my heart’s delight,
for I bear your name,
O LORD God of Heaven’s Armies.
Observation
I am in Anderson, South Carolina for a conference. I am so used to reading my Bible on my computer in the morning that it messes me up if I can’t get to my computer and get on line to do my daily devotions. I just figured out how to access the Internet from where we are staying. We stayed overnight with Jared and Jennifer Barden in their beautiful home. What a blessing they are!
God’s Word is my joy and my delight. I look forward to getting up everyday and digging into God’s Word.
How about you?
Application
I will meditate on this verse all day today and also John 15:7!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help us to learn all the important stuff at this conference today. May your face shine on New Springs Church for providing us this opportunity.
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Jeremiah 13; Jeremiah 14; Jeremiah 15; John 15
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Scripture
Jeremiah 15
16 When I discovered your words, I devoured them.
They are my joy and my heart’s delight,
for I bear your name,
O LORD God of Heaven’s Armies.
Observation
I am in Anderson, South Carolina for a conference. I am so used to reading my Bible on my computer in the morning that it messes me up if I can’t get to my computer and get on line to do my daily devotions. I just figured out how to access the Internet from where we are staying. We stayed overnight with Jared and Jennifer Barden in their beautiful home. What a blessing they are!
God’s Word is my joy and my delight. I look forward to getting up everyday and digging into God’s Word.
How about you?
Application
I will meditate on this verse all day today and also John 15:7!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help us to learn all the important stuff at this conference today. May your face shine on New Springs Church for providing us this opportunity.
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Wednesday, August 12, 2009
You Can Ask God For Anything In Jesus Name!
Jeremiah 10; Jeremiah 11; Jeremiah 12; John 14
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Scripture
John 14
13 You can ask for anything in my name, and I will do it, so that the Son can bring glory to the Father. 14 Yes, ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it!
Observation
The word “anything” just about includes everything doesn’t it! Jesus says that you can ask me for anything so that the Son can bring glory to the Father.
When we ask Jesus for something He will do it I believe if it is going to bring glory to the Father!
God puts things on our hearts to pray about so that He can answer those prayers. People come to your mind and you pray for them. Why do you think that those people came to your mind? They came to your mind because God wants to do a work in their lives and He wants to answer your prayers.
Who are you praying for today? Why did that person come to your mind? Sometimes the prayer is not for a person but it is for something specific. Maybe it is for your own health or your own finances, Jesus wants to answer those prayers so the Father can be glorified.
Application
I will pray for everyone and everything that the Lord brings to my mind.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to pray to You today and help me to ask big. Thank You for doing so much in my life and in the lives or our people.
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Jeremiah 10; Jeremiah 11; Jeremiah 12; John 14
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Scripture
John 14
13 You can ask for anything in my name, and I will do it, so that the Son can bring glory to the Father. 14 Yes, ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it!
Observation
The word “anything” just about includes everything doesn’t it! Jesus says that you can ask me for anything so that the Son can bring glory to the Father.
When we ask Jesus for something He will do it I believe if it is going to bring glory to the Father!
God puts things on our hearts to pray about so that He can answer those prayers. People come to your mind and you pray for them. Why do you think that those people came to your mind? They came to your mind because God wants to do a work in their lives and He wants to answer your prayers.
Who are you praying for today? Why did that person come to your mind? Sometimes the prayer is not for a person but it is for something specific. Maybe it is for your own health or your own finances, Jesus wants to answer those prayers so the Father can be glorified.
Application
I will pray for everyone and everything that the Lord brings to my mind.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to pray to You today and help me to ask big. Thank You for doing so much in my life and in the lives or our people.
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Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Serving is Loving!
Jeremiah 7; Jeremiah 8; Jeremiah 9; John 13
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Scripture
John 13
34 So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. 35 Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.”
Observation
4 So he got up from the table, took off his robe, wrapped a towel around his waist, 5 and poured water into a basin. Then he began to wash the disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel he had around him.
12 After washing their feet, he put on his robe again and sat down and asked, “Do you understand what I was doing? 13 You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and you are right, because that’s what I am. 14 And since I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash each other’s feet. 15 I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you.
Love for people is demonstrated in service. Serving people is the demonstration of our love for them. You don’t love people very much if you are not willing to serve them.
Application
I will look for a way to demonstrate my love for someone today.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I think that I sometimes, no not sometimes, most of the time I don’t know how the kingdom of God works. There is a balance between our love for each other and a love for those around us that seems hard to keep right. If we are too inward and self-centered then we don’t worry about the lost around us, but if we never take time to grow in our relationships with the Christians around us then we are shallow. God help us have the right balance. Help me to love like You loved when You walked this earth. Help me to love both Christians and those that are unbelievers. Give me Your heart for those around me.
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Jeremiah 7; Jeremiah 8; Jeremiah 9; John 13
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Scripture
John 13
34 So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. 35 Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.”
Observation
4 So he got up from the table, took off his robe, wrapped a towel around his waist, 5 and poured water into a basin. Then he began to wash the disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel he had around him.
12 After washing their feet, he put on his robe again and sat down and asked, “Do you understand what I was doing? 13 You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and you are right, because that’s what I am. 14 And since I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash each other’s feet. 15 I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you.
Love for people is demonstrated in service. Serving people is the demonstration of our love for them. You don’t love people very much if you are not willing to serve them.
Application
I will look for a way to demonstrate my love for someone today.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I think that I sometimes, no not sometimes, most of the time I don’t know how the kingdom of God works. There is a balance between our love for each other and a love for those around us that seems hard to keep right. If we are too inward and self-centered then we don’t worry about the lost around us, but if we never take time to grow in our relationships with the Christians around us then we are shallow. God help us have the right balance. Help me to love like You loved when You walked this earth. Help me to love both Christians and those that are unbelievers. Give me Your heart for those around me.
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Sunday, August 09, 2009
Anyone…Includes You!
Jeremiah 3; Jeremiah 4; John 11
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Scripture
John 11
25 Jesus told her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying. 26 Everyone who lives in me and believes in me will never ever die.”
Observation
When you die are you going to Heaven or Hell? I didn’t ask where you would like to go when you die. I asked where are you going when you die Heaven or Hell?
Jesus tells us in these two verses how you can know for sure where you are going when you die.
He said, “I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying. Everyone who lives in me and believes in me will never die.”
So let me ask you again, “When you die are you going to Heaven or Hell?” It all depends on whether you are trusting in Jesus or not. If you put your faith and trust in Jesus and what He did for you on the cross then you will go to Heaven. If you are not trusting in Christ for your salvation then you are Hell bound.
It doesn’t matter how good you are or how bad you are …a lot of good people are going to be in Hell … what matters is that you believe (with your heart) in Jesus for your salvation.
Most people in this world are living under the delusion that if they are good enough that they will be allowed into Heaven … that is a lie straight from Hell … and if you believe it you will end up in Hell. None of us are good enough to enter Heaven’s gates. We are all sinners. We all deserve Hell.
Application
The Good News is that Jesus came to save sinners from an eternity in Hell. I will continue to share the Good News to people that are lost.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I am trusting in You for my salvation. I know that I am a sinner. I know that I have been saved and I will not go to Hell. My salvation is not based on anything that I have done, but on everything that Jesus did for me on the cross. Help me share this Good News clearly with other people today. I pray for our church today. I pray that You bless our people. Help us help other people find You.
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Jeremiah 3; Jeremiah 4; John 11
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Scripture
John 11
25 Jesus told her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying. 26 Everyone who lives in me and believes in me will never ever die.”
Observation
When you die are you going to Heaven or Hell? I didn’t ask where you would like to go when you die. I asked where are you going when you die Heaven or Hell?
Jesus tells us in these two verses how you can know for sure where you are going when you die.
He said, “I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying. Everyone who lives in me and believes in me will never die.”
So let me ask you again, “When you die are you going to Heaven or Hell?” It all depends on whether you are trusting in Jesus or not. If you put your faith and trust in Jesus and what He did for you on the cross then you will go to Heaven. If you are not trusting in Christ for your salvation then you are Hell bound.
It doesn’t matter how good you are or how bad you are …a lot of good people are going to be in Hell … what matters is that you believe (with your heart) in Jesus for your salvation.
Most people in this world are living under the delusion that if they are good enough that they will be allowed into Heaven … that is a lie straight from Hell … and if you believe it you will end up in Hell. None of us are good enough to enter Heaven’s gates. We are all sinners. We all deserve Hell.
Application
The Good News is that Jesus came to save sinners from an eternity in Hell. I will continue to share the Good News to people that are lost.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I am trusting in You for my salvation. I know that I am a sinner. I know that I have been saved and I will not go to Hell. My salvation is not based on anything that I have done, but on everything that Jesus did for me on the cross. Help me share this Good News clearly with other people today. I pray for our church today. I pray that You bless our people. Help us help other people find You.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Saturday, August 08, 2009
Let’s Don’t Make Excuses!
Jeremiah 1; Jeremiah 2; John 10
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Scripture
Jeremiah 1
The LORD gave me this message:
5 “I knew you before I formed you in your mother’s womb.
Before you were born I set you apart
and appointed you as my prophet to the nations.”
6 “O Sovereign LORD,” I said, “I can’t speak for you! I’m too young!”
7 The LORD replied, “Don’t say, ‘I’m too young,’ for you must go wherever I send you and say whatever I tell you. 8 And don’t be afraid of the people, for I will be with you and will protect you. I, the LORD, have spoken!”
Observation
God does not want to hear “I Can’t”. He wants to hear “Yes Lord”. His promise is that He will be with us and He will protect us. We don’t have to be afraid. There is no reason for us to make excuses …we need to just say, “Yes” and do whatever God has put on our hearts to do.
I have just returned from Quiebra Hacha, Cuba. It is a very small town about one hour away from Havana and we were working in a very small church. The pastor and his church could make lots of excuses about not doing God’s work because they have very few resources, but they are striving to be obedient. The church building is small and it is in real danger of falling down. They are trying to build a new church building while reaching more and more people for Christ. We were there to help them.
I have put up a few pictures to show you what it was like. I will put more up on Facebook and Picasa.
Jeremiah’s excuse was that he was too young, Moses excuse was that he was not a very good speaker; what is your excuse? God used both Moses and Jeremiah and He can use you too.
The church in Cuba could make excuses. You and I can make excuses, but none of those excuses area valid because we have an All Powerful God that can help us do whatever He has told us He wants us to accomplish.
Application
I will not make excuses. I will continue to work on what God has called me to do!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the wonderful trip to Cuba. Thank You for the great team that You allowed me to work with. Thank You for all of our new Cuban friends. I pray that You will bless them as they work on reaching more and more people for the kingdom in Quiebra Hacha.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Jeremiah 1; Jeremiah 2; John 10
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Jeremiah 1
The LORD gave me this message:
5 “I knew you before I formed you in your mother’s womb.
Before you were born I set you apart
and appointed you as my prophet to the nations.”
6 “O Sovereign LORD,” I said, “I can’t speak for you! I’m too young!”
7 The LORD replied, “Don’t say, ‘I’m too young,’ for you must go wherever I send you and say whatever I tell you. 8 And don’t be afraid of the people, for I will be with you and will protect you. I, the LORD, have spoken!”
Observation
God does not want to hear “I Can’t”. He wants to hear “Yes Lord”. His promise is that He will be with us and He will protect us. We don’t have to be afraid. There is no reason for us to make excuses …we need to just say, “Yes” and do whatever God has put on our hearts to do.
I have just returned from Quiebra Hacha, Cuba. It is a very small town about one hour away from Havana and we were working in a very small church. The pastor and his church could make lots of excuses about not doing God’s work because they have very few resources, but they are striving to be obedient. The church building is small and it is in real danger of falling down. They are trying to build a new church building while reaching more and more people for Christ. We were there to help them.
I have put up a few pictures to show you what it was like. I will put more up on Facebook and Picasa.
Jeremiah’s excuse was that he was too young, Moses excuse was that he was not a very good speaker; what is your excuse? God used both Moses and Jeremiah and He can use you too.
The church in Cuba could make excuses. You and I can make excuses, but none of those excuses area valid because we have an All Powerful God that can help us do whatever He has told us He wants us to accomplish.
Application
I will not make excuses. I will continue to work on what God has called me to do!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the wonderful trip to Cuba. Thank You for the great team that You allowed me to work with. Thank You for all of our new Cuban friends. I pray that You will bless them as they work on reaching more and more people for the kingdom in Quiebra Hacha.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
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