Go Tell That Fox!
Zechariah 7; Zechariah 8; Zechariah 9; Luke 13
Scripture
Luke 13:31 "At that time some Pharisees came to Jesus and said to him, "Leave this place and go somewhere else. Herod wants to kill you."
32He replied, "Go tell that fox, 'I will drive out demons and heal people today and tomorrow, and on the third day I will reach my goal.' 33In any case, I must keep going today and tomorrow and the next day—for surely no prophet can die outside Jerusalem!
34"O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing! 35Look, your house is left to you desolate. I tell you, you will not see me again until you say, 'Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.
Observation
Anybody that doesn’t think that Jesus was tough needs to read this passage! Pharisees had come trying to warn Jesus that Herod was going to kill him, but Jesus replied, “Go tell that fox…”. Jesus was going to die, but he was going to do it according to his plan. No man could touch him until he was ready to be arrested. He was going to heal and work miracles until the appointed day came and then he would allow him self to be arrested and be put to death.
Application
Rebuking someone is not easy and sometimes it is easier just to let it go, but sometimes we have to rebuke if we are going to help someone.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for showing us how strong Jesus was as he walked on this earth. He was tough, a man’s man. He had no fear of people like we have. Help me to be strong. Help me help men to be all that you want them to be.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Saturday, September 30, 2006
Friday, September 29, 2006
You Fool!
Zechariah 4; Zechariah 5; Zechariah 6; Luke 12
Scripture
Luke 12:14-21 "Jesus replied, "Man, who appointed me a judge or an arbiter between you?" Then he said to them, "Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions."
And he told them this parable: "The ground of a certain rich man produced a good crop. He thought to himself, 'What shall I do? I have no place to store my crops.' "Then he said, 'This is what I'll do. I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. And I'll say to myself, "You have plenty of good things laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink and be merry." '
"But God said to him, 'You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?'
"This is how it will be with anyone who stores up things for himself but is not rich toward God."
Observation
New car, new house, new clothes, it is easy to get caught up in accumulating stuff, but none of it satisfies. We don’t have to really be rich to be like this rich man in this story. All we have to do is have a heart like his. Realizing that what we are able to store up in Heaven is a lot more important than the stuff that we are accumulating down here is a challenge for all of us. Jesus says to sell your stuff, get rid of it so it doesn’t own you. I talked to a friend that is very wealthy and he told me that a person doesn’t own possessions they own him. It is so true. The more stuff you have here on earth the harder it is to concentrate on God’s Kingdom.
Application
Today I will examine my heart and see what possessions are way too important to me.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to be content with the possessions that we have and help me to be more concerned about your kingdom and less concerned about the “wants” of my life. Thank you for providing so much for my family and me. We are truly blessed.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Zechariah 4; Zechariah 5; Zechariah 6; Luke 12
Scripture
Luke 12:14-21 "Jesus replied, "Man, who appointed me a judge or an arbiter between you?" Then he said to them, "Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions."
And he told them this parable: "The ground of a certain rich man produced a good crop. He thought to himself, 'What shall I do? I have no place to store my crops.' "Then he said, 'This is what I'll do. I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. And I'll say to myself, "You have plenty of good things laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink and be merry." '
"But God said to him, 'You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?'
"This is how it will be with anyone who stores up things for himself but is not rich toward God."
Observation
New car, new house, new clothes, it is easy to get caught up in accumulating stuff, but none of it satisfies. We don’t have to really be rich to be like this rich man in this story. All we have to do is have a heart like his. Realizing that what we are able to store up in Heaven is a lot more important than the stuff that we are accumulating down here is a challenge for all of us. Jesus says to sell your stuff, get rid of it so it doesn’t own you. I talked to a friend that is very wealthy and he told me that a person doesn’t own possessions they own him. It is so true. The more stuff you have here on earth the harder it is to concentrate on God’s Kingdom.
Application
Today I will examine my heart and see what possessions are way too important to me.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to be content with the possessions that we have and help me to be more concerned about your kingdom and less concerned about the “wants” of my life. Thank you for providing so much for my family and me. We are truly blessed.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Thursday, September 28, 2006
Do You Want to be Blessed?
Zechariah 1; Zechariah 2; Zechariah 3; Luke 11
Scripture
Luke 11:27 “As Jesus was saying these things, a woman in the crowd called out, "Blessed is the mother who gave you birth and nursed you." He replied, "Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it."
Observation
The key to being a blessed person and the key to having God smile on you and his face shine on you can be summed up in one “obedience”. If you are obedient to God then He will bless you! I don’t know about you, but I want to be a person blessed by God. Matthew 6:33 gives us the same message as it says, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” I have been thinking all week about the prophet Daniel. The angel Gabriel told Daniel that he was a man that was highly esteemed. I want to be highly esteemed by God. Obedience is the key!
Application
Am I being obedient in every area of my life? Show me any area of disobedience Lord.
Prayer
Lord, you are worthy to receive praise! Show me Lord any area where I am being disobedient and convict me until I have confessed every sin. I want you to bless me and I want to be a blessing to other people. Help me to obey you the moment you speak to my heart. I want to hear you when you speak.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Zechariah 1; Zechariah 2; Zechariah 3; Luke 11
Scripture
Luke 11:27 “As Jesus was saying these things, a woman in the crowd called out, "Blessed is the mother who gave you birth and nursed you." He replied, "Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it."
Observation
The key to being a blessed person and the key to having God smile on you and his face shine on you can be summed up in one “obedience”. If you are obedient to God then He will bless you! I don’t know about you, but I want to be a person blessed by God. Matthew 6:33 gives us the same message as it says, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” I have been thinking all week about the prophet Daniel. The angel Gabriel told Daniel that he was a man that was highly esteemed. I want to be highly esteemed by God. Obedience is the key!
Application
Am I being obedient in every area of my life? Show me any area of disobedience Lord.
Prayer
Lord, you are worthy to receive praise! Show me Lord any area where I am being disobedient and convict me until I have confessed every sin. I want you to bless me and I want to be a blessing to other people. Help me to obey you the moment you speak to my heart. I want to hear you when you speak.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
What Must I Do?
Haggai 1; Haggai 2; Psalm 129; Luke 10
Scripture
Luke 10:25 “On one occasion an expert in the law stood up to test Jesus. "Teacher," he asked, "what must I do to inherit eternal life?" "What is written in the Law?" he replied. "How do you read it?"
He answered: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind'[c]; and, 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'[d]"
"You have answered correctly," Jesus replied. "Do this and you will live."
But he wanted to justify himself, so he asked Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?"
In reply Jesus said: "A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, when he fell into the hands of robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead. A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, took him to an inn and took care of him. The next day he took out two silver coins[e] and gave them to the innkeeper. 'Look after him,' he said, 'and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.'
"Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?"
The expert in the law replied, "The one who had mercy on him."
Jesus told him, "Go and do likewise."
Observation
When you ask someone, “In your personal opinion what do you understand that it takes for a person to go to Heaven and have Eternal Life?” They almost always give you a works answer. In other words, they will say that a person must be good, or they must be moral, or they must go to church, or they must be nice to people etc.
In Acts 16:30, the Philippian Jailor asked the same question and Paul and Silas gave him the answer, “He then brought them out and asked, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" 31 They replied, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved--you and your household."
So what must you do to be saved? Final answer! Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved. Final answer!
Application
Our main task in this life is helping people understand that good works will not save them, but trusting and placing their faith in Jesus Christ will.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to be able to share the Gospel clearly where people will understand the way of salvation. Bring people into my life that need to hear and open up their hearts so they will respond and be saved.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Haggai 1; Haggai 2; Psalm 129; Luke 10
Scripture
Luke 10:25 “On one occasion an expert in the law stood up to test Jesus. "Teacher," he asked, "what must I do to inherit eternal life?" "What is written in the Law?" he replied. "How do you read it?"
He answered: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind'[c]; and, 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'[d]"
"You have answered correctly," Jesus replied. "Do this and you will live."
But he wanted to justify himself, so he asked Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?"
In reply Jesus said: "A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, when he fell into the hands of robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead. A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, took him to an inn and took care of him. The next day he took out two silver coins[e] and gave them to the innkeeper. 'Look after him,' he said, 'and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.'
"Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?"
The expert in the law replied, "The one who had mercy on him."
Jesus told him, "Go and do likewise."
Observation
When you ask someone, “In your personal opinion what do you understand that it takes for a person to go to Heaven and have Eternal Life?” They almost always give you a works answer. In other words, they will say that a person must be good, or they must be moral, or they must go to church, or they must be nice to people etc.
In Acts 16:30, the Philippian Jailor asked the same question and Paul and Silas gave him the answer, “He then brought them out and asked, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" 31 They replied, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved--you and your household."
So what must you do to be saved? Final answer! Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved. Final answer!
Application
Our main task in this life is helping people understand that good works will not save them, but trusting and placing their faith in Jesus Christ will.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to be able to share the Gospel clearly where people will understand the way of salvation. Bring people into my life that need to hear and open up their hearts so they will respond and be saved.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Excuses, Excuses, Excuses!
Ezra 4; Psalm 113; Psalm 127; Luke 9
Scripture
Luke 9:57 "As they were walking along the road, a man said to him, "I will follow you wherever you go." Jesus replied, "Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head." He said to another man, "Follow me." But the man replied, "Lord, first let me go and bury my father." Jesus said to him, "Let the dead bury their own dead, but you go and proclaim the kingdom of God." Still another said, "I will follow you, Lord; but first let me go back and say good bye to my family." Jesus replied, "No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God."
Observation
Excuses, we hear them everyday! We may have even used some this week! There are some legitimate excuses, but most excuses are actually lies! Jesus called his disciples to follow Him and the scriptures say that they immediately followed him. Evidently Jesus called other men to follow him and they immediately began to make excuses.
Application
My word needs to be my word. I want to always be a person of integrity that people can count on.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, you don’t want to hear my excuses. I know that you want me to be obedient. Help me to hear your voice and help me to have a willing heart to follow your leadership.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezra 4; Psalm 113; Psalm 127; Luke 9
Scripture
Luke 9:57 "As they were walking along the road, a man said to him, "I will follow you wherever you go." Jesus replied, "Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head." He said to another man, "Follow me." But the man replied, "Lord, first let me go and bury my father." Jesus said to him, "Let the dead bury their own dead, but you go and proclaim the kingdom of God." Still another said, "I will follow you, Lord; but first let me go back and say good bye to my family." Jesus replied, "No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God."
Observation
Excuses, we hear them everyday! We may have even used some this week! There are some legitimate excuses, but most excuses are actually lies! Jesus called his disciples to follow Him and the scriptures say that they immediately followed him. Evidently Jesus called other men to follow him and they immediately began to make excuses.
Application
My word needs to be my word. I want to always be a person of integrity that people can count on.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, you don’t want to hear my excuses. I know that you want me to be obedient. Help me to hear your voice and help me to have a willing heart to follow your leadership.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Monday, September 25, 2006
Joy Robbers / Kill Joys
Ezra 2; Ezra 3; Luke 8
Scripture
Ezra 3:10 "When the builders laid the foundation of the temple of the LORD, the priests in their vestments and with trumpets, and the Levites (the sons of Asaph) with cymbals, took their places to praise the LORD, as prescribed by David king of Israel. 11 With praise and thanksgiving they sang to the LORD :
"He is good;
his love to Israel endures forever."
And all the people gave a great shout of praise to the LORD, because the foundation of the house of the LORD was laid. 12 But many of the older priests and Levites and family heads, who had seen the former temple, wept aloud when they saw the foundation of this temple being laid, while many others shouted for joy. 13 No one could distinguish the sound of the shouts of joy from the sound of weeping, because the people made so much noise. And the sound was heard far away.
Observation
Ever met someone that was a “Kill Joy” if you have then you know that they are no fun to be around. They can take the air right out of your sails. They can take the wind right out of you. Right in the middle of a time of celebration they start with their moaning, criticizing, complaining, poor mouthing, and the joy that is in the air suddenly gets hidden within the midst of their negativity. Nothing is good enough for them all they can remember is the good ole days. They compare everything to the way it used to be done or the way it used to be. This is what happened in this story. The new temple as glorious as it was going to be couldn’t compare to the old one. It didn’t matter to those complainers that there had been a Revival in the hearts of the people and that they were returning to the Lord. The complainers were more concerned with bricks and stones they weren’t concerned about the hearts of men. Some things never change!
Application
This week I plan to find folks that are doing good and let them know how much I appreciate them.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to be positive today. Help me to find things to celebrate. Help me not be a “Kill Joy”. Thank you for the messages this week. Thank you for the encouragement. Lord, I am proud of our people that took an active part in this weekend. Help me to focus on what you are doing through them and help me not to be discouraged by negative, and critical people.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezra 2; Ezra 3; Luke 8
Scripture
Ezra 3:10 "When the builders laid the foundation of the temple of the LORD, the priests in their vestments and with trumpets, and the Levites (the sons of Asaph) with cymbals, took their places to praise the LORD, as prescribed by David king of Israel. 11 With praise and thanksgiving they sang to the LORD :
"He is good;
his love to Israel endures forever."
And all the people gave a great shout of praise to the LORD, because the foundation of the house of the LORD was laid. 12 But many of the older priests and Levites and family heads, who had seen the former temple, wept aloud when they saw the foundation of this temple being laid, while many others shouted for joy. 13 No one could distinguish the sound of the shouts of joy from the sound of weeping, because the people made so much noise. And the sound was heard far away.
Observation
Ever met someone that was a “Kill Joy” if you have then you know that they are no fun to be around. They can take the air right out of your sails. They can take the wind right out of you. Right in the middle of a time of celebration they start with their moaning, criticizing, complaining, poor mouthing, and the joy that is in the air suddenly gets hidden within the midst of their negativity. Nothing is good enough for them all they can remember is the good ole days. They compare everything to the way it used to be done or the way it used to be. This is what happened in this story. The new temple as glorious as it was going to be couldn’t compare to the old one. It didn’t matter to those complainers that there had been a Revival in the hearts of the people and that they were returning to the Lord. The complainers were more concerned with bricks and stones they weren’t concerned about the hearts of men. Some things never change!
Application
This week I plan to find folks that are doing good and let them know how much I appreciate them.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to be positive today. Help me to find things to celebrate. Help me not be a “Kill Joy”. Thank you for the messages this week. Thank you for the encouragement. Lord, I am proud of our people that took an active part in this weekend. Help me to focus on what you are doing through them and help me not to be discouraged by negative, and critical people.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Sunday, September 24, 2006
Your Sins Are Forgiven!
Ezra 1; Psalm 84; Psalm 85; Luke 7
Scripture
Luke 7:48 Then Jesus said to her, "Your sins are forgiven."
36Now one of the Pharisees invited Jesus to have dinner with him, so he went to the Pharisee's house and reclined at the table. 37When a woman who had lived a sinful life in that town learned that Jesus was eating at the Pharisee's house, she brought an alabaster jar of perfume, 38and as she stood behind him at his feet weeping, she began to wet his feet with her tears. Then she wiped them with her hair, kissed them and poured perfume on them.
39When the Pharisee who had invited him saw this, he said to himself, "If this man were a prophet, he would know who is touching him and what kind of woman she is—that she is a sinner."
40Jesus answered him, "Simon, I have something to tell you."
"Tell me, teacher," he said.
41"Two men owed money to a certain moneylender. One owed him five hundred denarii,[d] and the other fifty. 42Neither of them had the money to pay him back, so he canceled the debts of both. Now which of them will love him more?"
43Simon replied, "I suppose the one who had the bigger debt canceled."
"You have judged correctly," Jesus said.
44Then he turned toward the woman and said to Simon, "Do you see this woman? I came into your house. You did not give me any water for my feet, but she wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. 45You did not give me a kiss, but this woman, from the time I entered, has not stopped kissing my feet. 46You did not put oil on my head, but she has poured perfume on my feet. 47Therefore, I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven—for she loved much. But he who has been forgiven little loves little."
48Then Jesus said to her, "Your sins are forgiven."
49The other guests began to say among themselves, "Who is this who even forgives sins?"
50Jesus said to the woman, "Your faith has saved you; go in peace."
Observation
What a contrast we find in this passage of scripture! We encounter Jesus eating supper at the home of a well to do Pharisee and a sinful woman washing Jesus feet with her hair and her tears. This sinful woman came to Jesus in brokenness and in repentance. She poured expensive perfume on Jesus. This sinful woman left the presence of Jesus forgiven and changed. Have your sins been forgiven? Have you come to Jesus in brokenness and with a changed heart? He wants to forgive our sins, but we have to come to Jesus.
Application
People need to be brought to Jesus. They have to be able to hear that their sins can be forgiven. They need to hear about God’s purpose for their lives. I need to share Jesus with more people this week.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you that my sins are forgiven. Help me share this Good News with someone else this week. Thank you for Jon Reed’s message yesterday. Open hearts this morning in our worship services to respond to your offer of forgiveness. You are Wonderful and Worthy of all my praise!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezra 1; Psalm 84; Psalm 85; Luke 7
Scripture
Luke 7:48 Then Jesus said to her, "Your sins are forgiven."
36Now one of the Pharisees invited Jesus to have dinner with him, so he went to the Pharisee's house and reclined at the table. 37When a woman who had lived a sinful life in that town learned that Jesus was eating at the Pharisee's house, she brought an alabaster jar of perfume, 38and as she stood behind him at his feet weeping, she began to wet his feet with her tears. Then she wiped them with her hair, kissed them and poured perfume on them.
39When the Pharisee who had invited him saw this, he said to himself, "If this man were a prophet, he would know who is touching him and what kind of woman she is—that she is a sinner."
40Jesus answered him, "Simon, I have something to tell you."
"Tell me, teacher," he said.
41"Two men owed money to a certain moneylender. One owed him five hundred denarii,[d] and the other fifty. 42Neither of them had the money to pay him back, so he canceled the debts of both. Now which of them will love him more?"
43Simon replied, "I suppose the one who had the bigger debt canceled."
"You have judged correctly," Jesus said.
44Then he turned toward the woman and said to Simon, "Do you see this woman? I came into your house. You did not give me any water for my feet, but she wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. 45You did not give me a kiss, but this woman, from the time I entered, has not stopped kissing my feet. 46You did not put oil on my head, but she has poured perfume on my feet. 47Therefore, I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven—for she loved much. But he who has been forgiven little loves little."
48Then Jesus said to her, "Your sins are forgiven."
49The other guests began to say among themselves, "Who is this who even forgives sins?"
50Jesus said to the woman, "Your faith has saved you; go in peace."
Observation
What a contrast we find in this passage of scripture! We encounter Jesus eating supper at the home of a well to do Pharisee and a sinful woman washing Jesus feet with her hair and her tears. This sinful woman came to Jesus in brokenness and in repentance. She poured expensive perfume on Jesus. This sinful woman left the presence of Jesus forgiven and changed. Have your sins been forgiven? Have you come to Jesus in brokenness and with a changed heart? He wants to forgive our sins, but we have to come to Jesus.
Application
People need to be brought to Jesus. They have to be able to hear that their sins can be forgiven. They need to hear about God’s purpose for their lives. I need to share Jesus with more people this week.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you that my sins are forgiven. Help me share this Good News with someone else this week. Thank you for Jon Reed’s message yesterday. Open hearts this morning in our worship services to respond to your offer of forgiveness. You are Wonderful and Worthy of all my praise!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Saturday, September 23, 2006
For out of the overflow!
Daniel 11; Daniel 12; Luke 6
Scripture
Luke 6:45 “The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks.”
Observation
Have you ever had someone say, “I know that he/she said that but they are not really like that”! The Bible says differently. This passage says that what your heart is full of will slosh out and splash out on everybody. When I hear someone say bad, negative, hurtful remarks I think of this verse. “…For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks.”
Application
I need to keep my heart filled with God’s Word so the overflow of my heart will be pleasing to Him.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to stay in your Word. When hurtful, negative, mean things come out of my mouth help me to realize that I need to spend time in your Word. I pray that today will go according to your plan. I pray that the picnic will be a life changing experience for someone as Jon Reed shares Christ. Please touch lives today at the ski party and the picnic.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Daniel 11; Daniel 12; Luke 6
Scripture
Luke 6:45 “The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks.”
Observation
Have you ever had someone say, “I know that he/she said that but they are not really like that”! The Bible says differently. This passage says that what your heart is full of will slosh out and splash out on everybody. When I hear someone say bad, negative, hurtful remarks I think of this verse. “…For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks.”
Application
I need to keep my heart filled with God’s Word so the overflow of my heart will be pleasing to Him.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to stay in your Word. When hurtful, negative, mean things come out of my mouth help me to realize that I need to spend time in your Word. I pray that today will go according to your plan. I pray that the picnic will be a life changing experience for someone as Jon Reed shares Christ. Please touch lives today at the ski party and the picnic.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Friday, September 22, 2006
We Have Seen Remarkable Things Today!
Daniel 9; Daniel 10; Psalm 123; Luke 5
Scripture
Luke 5:26 “Everyone was amazed and gave praise to God. They were filled with awe and said, "We have seen remarkable things today."
Observation
While Jesus was speaking in a home a man was suddenly dropped down through the roof by some of the man’s friends. This man was crippled and these men wanted Jesus to heal him. Jesus not only healed him but also told him that his sins were forgiven. So this God Event amazed the folks. It could only be explained as a “God Thing”. I want to see “God Things” in our church’s life. Things that happen that can only be explained as a “God Thing”. I want to be able to say; “We have seen remarkable things today.”
Application
The four men that carried their crippled friend had incredible faith! It was their faith that set this miracle into action! I need to think today about who needs to be brought to Jesus.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for the story of these men bringing their friend to Jesus. Thank you for your Word that is new and fresh every morning. I want to see remarkable things happen in my life and in the life of our church that only can be explained as “God Things”. Do some things this weekend where only you can get the credit. I pray for Jon Reed that you use him to touch lives this weekend.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Daniel 9; Daniel 10; Psalm 123; Luke 5
Scripture
Luke 5:26 “Everyone was amazed and gave praise to God. They were filled with awe and said, "We have seen remarkable things today."
Observation
While Jesus was speaking in a home a man was suddenly dropped down through the roof by some of the man’s friends. This man was crippled and these men wanted Jesus to heal him. Jesus not only healed him but also told him that his sins were forgiven. So this God Event amazed the folks. It could only be explained as a “God Thing”. I want to see “God Things” in our church’s life. Things that happen that can only be explained as a “God Thing”. I want to be able to say; “We have seen remarkable things today.”
Application
The four men that carried their crippled friend had incredible faith! It was their faith that set this miracle into action! I need to think today about who needs to be brought to Jesus.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for the story of these men bringing their friend to Jesus. Thank you for your Word that is new and fresh every morning. I want to see remarkable things happen in my life and in the life of our church that only can be explained as “God Things”. Do some things this weekend where only you can get the credit. I pray for Jon Reed that you use him to touch lives this weekend.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Thursday, September 21, 2006
Need to get away?
Daniel 7; Daniel 8; Psalm 137; Luke 4
Scripture
Luke 4:42 “At daybreak Jesus went out to a solitary place. The people were looking for him and when they came to where he was, they tried to keep him from leaving them.”
Observation
Have you ever felt like that you just needed to get away? Jesus did. And so Jesus went out to a solitary place early in the morning. There is a lesson for us here in this verse. We need to take time to get alone with the Lord on a regular basis. Right at this very moment I feel emotionally drained. I need to get away and just spend time with the Lord. Even if it is just for a few minutes, I need to go to a solitary place.
Application
In a few moments, I am going to walk out of my office and go spend some time with God. I need my emotional gas tank refilled and the only way to do that is to spend time with him.
Prayer
Father, I am looking forward to time with you. Time when I am not distracted with phone calls or emails that I need to write. I am glad to know that you will be there the moment I call on you. You are waiting on me. Thank you for giving me this verse this week, “I will wait on the Lord, my soul waits, and in your word I will put my hope.”
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Daniel 7; Daniel 8; Psalm 137; Luke 4
Scripture
Luke 4:42 “At daybreak Jesus went out to a solitary place. The people were looking for him and when they came to where he was, they tried to keep him from leaving them.”
Observation
Have you ever felt like that you just needed to get away? Jesus did. And so Jesus went out to a solitary place early in the morning. There is a lesson for us here in this verse. We need to take time to get alone with the Lord on a regular basis. Right at this very moment I feel emotionally drained. I need to get away and just spend time with the Lord. Even if it is just for a few minutes, I need to go to a solitary place.
Application
In a few moments, I am going to walk out of my office and go spend some time with God. I need my emotional gas tank refilled and the only way to do that is to spend time with him.
Prayer
Father, I am looking forward to time with you. Time when I am not distracted with phone calls or emails that I need to write. I am glad to know that you will be there the moment I call on you. You are waiting on me. Thank you for giving me this verse this week, “I will wait on the Lord, my soul waits, and in your word I will put my hope.”
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
Good News of Great Joy!
Ezekiel 47; Ezekiel 48; Luke 2
Scripture
Luke 2:8 “And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."
Observation
I guess I am always wondering why things happen the way they happen, do you do that too? Why did God choose to share the “Good News of Great Joy” of the birth of Christ to a group of lowly shepherds first? I can think of several good reasons and you can probably think of a few more. I wonder what happened to those shepherds later. Did they have the opportunity to hear Christ preach and did it cause them to remember the night of his birth? Did they later become followers/disciples of Christ?
Application
I never grow tired of reading the story of the birth of our Savior. Today I am going to have Christmas in September and think all day of the Christmas story! It sure is “Good News of Great Joy”
Prayer
Father, thank you for sending someone into my life years ago to share with me about Jesus. I do not deserve to be your child, but thank you for adopting me. I know that I am not worthy to be called your son, but thank you for allowing me to become one of your children. I am full of great joy today because I belong to you!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezekiel 47; Ezekiel 48; Luke 2
Scripture
Luke 2:8 “And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."
Observation
I guess I am always wondering why things happen the way they happen, do you do that too? Why did God choose to share the “Good News of Great Joy” of the birth of Christ to a group of lowly shepherds first? I can think of several good reasons and you can probably think of a few more. I wonder what happened to those shepherds later. Did they have the opportunity to hear Christ preach and did it cause them to remember the night of his birth? Did they later become followers/disciples of Christ?
Application
I never grow tired of reading the story of the birth of our Savior. Today I am going to have Christmas in September and think all day of the Christmas story! It sure is “Good News of Great Joy”
Prayer
Father, thank you for sending someone into my life years ago to share with me about Jesus. I do not deserve to be your child, but thank you for adopting me. I know that I am not worthy to be called your son, but thank you for allowing me to become one of your children. I am full of great joy today because I belong to you!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Monday, September 18, 2006
What Are You Facing This Morning?
Ezekiel 45; Ezekiel 46; Luke 1
Scripture
Luke 1:37 “For nothing is impossible with God."
Observation
The Angel Gabriel made a huge statement about the awesome power of God in Luke 1:37 when he says, “Nothing is impossible with God.” God did two impossible things with the two pregnancies of John the Baptist and Jesus; both were miracles! God loves doing the seemly impossible. Some things may seem impossible but God wants to show us that He is able and not only able but willing to make things happen!
Application
I have some people that I want to see saved. Luke 1:37 says to me that with God all things are possible.
Prayer
Father, help me to believe you for the impossible things in my life. Some things are impossible for me to fix, but you are more than able to handle these things. Thank you for constantly working in my life and the lives of those I am praying for.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezekiel 45; Ezekiel 46; Luke 1
Scripture
Luke 1:37 “For nothing is impossible with God."
Observation
The Angel Gabriel made a huge statement about the awesome power of God in Luke 1:37 when he says, “Nothing is impossible with God.” God did two impossible things with the two pregnancies of John the Baptist and Jesus; both were miracles! God loves doing the seemly impossible. Some things may seem impossible but God wants to show us that He is able and not only able but willing to make things happen!
Application
I have some people that I want to see saved. Luke 1:37 says to me that with God all things are possible.
Prayer
Father, help me to believe you for the impossible things in my life. Some things are impossible for me to fix, but you are more than able to handle these things. Thank you for constantly working in my life and the lives of those I am praying for.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Saturday, September 16, 2006
NEW IS GOOD!
Ezekiel 40; Ezekiel 41; Psalm 128; Revelation 21
Scripture
Revelation 21:5 “He who was seated on the throne said, "I am making everything new!"
Observation
Have you ever read the book of Psalms and saw where the Psalmist says, “Sing unto the Lord a New Song”! God likes new stuff! He loves to make things new! We on the other hand tend to like old stuff. We don’t like it when someone tries to get us to sing a new song or do something in a new way! We don’t like change. God is a God of change! He doesn’t change but we are constantly being changed into His image if we are His children! One day everything is going to be new! Won’t some folks be in for a shock!
Application
I want to be open for change. I don’t want to stay the same. I don’t want to be bitter or negative or critical or hang with people that are.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, make everything new. I think I am ready Lord. Make me ready if I am not. Help me to be open. Keep my heart soft and tender Lord. I don’t want to be bitter, critical or negative. Help me to keep my focus. Thank you for coming into my life and making me a new person!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezekiel 40; Ezekiel 41; Psalm 128; Revelation 21
Scripture
Revelation 21:5 “He who was seated on the throne said, "I am making everything new!"
Observation
Have you ever read the book of Psalms and saw where the Psalmist says, “Sing unto the Lord a New Song”! God likes new stuff! He loves to make things new! We on the other hand tend to like old stuff. We don’t like it when someone tries to get us to sing a new song or do something in a new way! We don’t like change. God is a God of change! He doesn’t change but we are constantly being changed into His image if we are His children! One day everything is going to be new! Won’t some folks be in for a shock!
Application
I want to be open for change. I don’t want to stay the same. I don’t want to be bitter or negative or critical or hang with people that are.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, make everything new. I think I am ready Lord. Make me ready if I am not. Help me to be open. Keep my heart soft and tender Lord. I don’t want to be bitter, critical or negative. Help me to keep my focus. Thank you for coming into my life and making me a new person!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Friday, September 15, 2006
The Most Important Book Ever!
Is Your Name in This Book?
Ezekiel 38; Ezekiel 39; Psalm 145; Revelation 20
Scripture
Revelation 20:14 “Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. The lake of fire is the second death. If anyone's name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire.”
Observation
One of our 7 granddaughters had her picture in a small local paper this week! Of course, Kathy and I are proud of that fact! In fact, we are very proud of all of our grandchildren and we brag about whatever they do! As neat, as it is to have one’s name or picture in a local newspaper there is one book that is way more important to have your name in! That book is mentioned in Revelation 20:15; it is the book of life.
Is your name in that book?
How can you have your name written in that book? If you are serious and really want to spend eternity in Heaven then you must place your faith and trust in Jesus Christ. You must believe that He died on the cross for your sins. You must repent! Repent means that you turn from your life of self and sin and turn to God. Ask him to forgive you and ask him to save you! My name was entered into the book of life when I gave my life to Christ at the age of 19. He has never left me and I have always had the assurance that the moment I die I will be in Heaven with Jesus.
Application
It is so easy to lose focus and forget that our primary task on planet earth as believers is to spread the Good News to all that live around us so that they will have the opportunity to have their name in the book of life. How many folks have we helped get their names in that book?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, please bring people into my life that need to hear about Jesus. Help me to stay focused on the main task and help me not be sidelined with other stuff that is not nearly as important. Thank you that my name is written in the book of life!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Is Your Name in This Book?
Ezekiel 38; Ezekiel 39; Psalm 145; Revelation 20
Scripture
Revelation 20:14 “Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. The lake of fire is the second death. If anyone's name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire.”
Observation
One of our 7 granddaughters had her picture in a small local paper this week! Of course, Kathy and I are proud of that fact! In fact, we are very proud of all of our grandchildren and we brag about whatever they do! As neat, as it is to have one’s name or picture in a local newspaper there is one book that is way more important to have your name in! That book is mentioned in Revelation 20:15; it is the book of life.
Is your name in that book?
How can you have your name written in that book? If you are serious and really want to spend eternity in Heaven then you must place your faith and trust in Jesus Christ. You must believe that He died on the cross for your sins. You must repent! Repent means that you turn from your life of self and sin and turn to God. Ask him to forgive you and ask him to save you! My name was entered into the book of life when I gave my life to Christ at the age of 19. He has never left me and I have always had the assurance that the moment I die I will be in Heaven with Jesus.
Application
It is so easy to lose focus and forget that our primary task on planet earth as believers is to spread the Good News to all that live around us so that they will have the opportunity to have their name in the book of life. How many folks have we helped get their names in that book?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, please bring people into my life that need to hear about Jesus. Help me to stay focused on the main task and help me not be sidelined with other stuff that is not nearly as important. Thank you that my name is written in the book of life!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Thursday, September 14, 2006
KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS!
Ezekiel 36; Ezekiel 37; Psalm 110; Revelation 19
Scripture
Revelation 19:11 “I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and makes war. His eyes are like blazing fire, and on his head are many crowns. He has a name written on him that no one knows but he himself. He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and his name is the Word of God. The armies of heaven were following him, riding on white horses and dressed in fine linen, white and clean. Out of his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations. "He will rule them with an iron scepter." He treads the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God Almighty. On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written:
KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.
Observation
Our mental image of Jesus is probably that of a mild meek Jewish man that we have gotten from some artist in some book in the past. You better take a good look at this picture of Jesus in Revelation 19 because when he returns this is what he is going to look like! He is coming back as the Victorious King. He is coming back as a Warrior King ready for battle!
Application
His return will be soon! I need to focus on reaching people that do not know him while there is still time!
Prayer
Father please give me a fresh passion to share the Gospel. Bring people into my life that need to hear the Good News! Give me boldness and give me the love for people that don’t know you that live in spiritual darkness so that I can share with them! Thank you for sending someone to share the Gospel with me!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezekiel 36; Ezekiel 37; Psalm 110; Revelation 19
Scripture
Revelation 19:11 “I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and makes war. His eyes are like blazing fire, and on his head are many crowns. He has a name written on him that no one knows but he himself. He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and his name is the Word of God. The armies of heaven were following him, riding on white horses and dressed in fine linen, white and clean. Out of his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations. "He will rule them with an iron scepter." He treads the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God Almighty. On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written:
KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.
Observation
Our mental image of Jesus is probably that of a mild meek Jewish man that we have gotten from some artist in some book in the past. You better take a good look at this picture of Jesus in Revelation 19 because when he returns this is what he is going to look like! He is coming back as the Victorious King. He is coming back as a Warrior King ready for battle!
Application
His return will be soon! I need to focus on reaching people that do not know him while there is still time!
Prayer
Father please give me a fresh passion to share the Gospel. Bring people into my life that need to hear the Good News! Give me boldness and give me the love for people that don’t know you that live in spiritual darkness so that I can share with them! Thank you for sending someone to share the Gospel with me!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego
“But even if he does not, we want you to know…”
Daniel 3; Daniel 4; Psalm 81; Revelation 17
Scripture
Daniel 3:16 “Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to the king, "O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. 17 If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to save us from it, and he will rescue us from your hand, O king. 18 But even if he does not, we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up."
Observation
Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego getting thrown into the fiery furnace is one of my favorite stories in scripture. Daniel getting thrown into the lions’ den is also one of my all time favorites. It is the tremendous faith of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego that grabs my attention. King if you throw us into the blazing furnace our God is able to save us, but if he doesn’t we still will not bow down to your image or serve your gods. And of course that response was sure to get them thrown into the furnace. The neatest part of the story was when the king looked into the fiery furnace and saw four men walking around. I believe that Jesus Christ was walking around in the furnace with Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego!
Application
I will serve the Lord no matter what. Will I only have faith to trust him when things are going good or will I have the faith to trust him even when things are scorching hot?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for the stories of faith that you give us in your Word. Give me the faith of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego. Help me trust you even when I am being tested. Help me to trust you when I am in the fire. I know that you will be there with me.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
“But even if he does not, we want you to know…”
Daniel 3; Daniel 4; Psalm 81; Revelation 17
Scripture
Daniel 3:16 “Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to the king, "O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. 17 If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to save us from it, and he will rescue us from your hand, O king. 18 But even if he does not, we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up."
Observation
Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego getting thrown into the fiery furnace is one of my favorite stories in scripture. Daniel getting thrown into the lions’ den is also one of my all time favorites. It is the tremendous faith of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego that grabs my attention. King if you throw us into the blazing furnace our God is able to save us, but if he doesn’t we still will not bow down to your image or serve your gods. And of course that response was sure to get them thrown into the furnace. The neatest part of the story was when the king looked into the fiery furnace and saw four men walking around. I believe that Jesus Christ was walking around in the furnace with Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego!
Application
I will serve the Lord no matter what. Will I only have faith to trust him when things are going good or will I have the faith to trust him even when things are scorching hot?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for the stories of faith that you give us in your Word. Give me the faith of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego. Help me trust you even when I am being tested. Help me to trust you when I am in the fire. I know that you will be there with me.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
Then they will know that I am the Sovereign LORD!
Ezekiel 29; Ezekiel 30; Ezekiel 31; Ezekiel 32; Revelation 11
Scripture
Ezekiel 29:16 “Egypt will no longer be a source of confidence for the people of Israel but will be a reminder of their sin in turning to her for help. Then they will know that I am the Sovereign LORD.”
Observation
Ezekiel prophesized against Egypt and predicts its destruction. Their destruction will be so that they will know that the Lord is Sovereign! God uses nations for His purposes. He brings down one nation with another nation. No leader stays in power unless Sovereign God allows it. He will redeem his people even after allowing them to be taken into captivity.
Application
I think of Cuba and other nations like it where the leaders seem to be dead set against God and are so evil. Yet God has his purpose for allowing those leaders to stay in power. I don’t believe Castro will stay in power one second longer than our Sovereign God wants. The church has flourished in Cuba because of the persecution. Romans 8:28 says, “That God causes all things to work to the good of those that love him.” I have to keep reminding myself that God is sovereign and he is in control.
Prayer
Father, you bring down nations and raise up nations according to your will. You are Sovereign and worthy to be praised. May your will be done in countries like Cuba, Korea, Iran, the Sudan etc, and may many in those countries come to know you in spite of the persecution and harsh ungodly leaders.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezekiel 29; Ezekiel 30; Ezekiel 31; Ezekiel 32; Revelation 11
Scripture
Ezekiel 29:16 “Egypt will no longer be a source of confidence for the people of Israel but will be a reminder of their sin in turning to her for help. Then they will know that I am the Sovereign LORD.”
Observation
Ezekiel prophesized against Egypt and predicts its destruction. Their destruction will be so that they will know that the Lord is Sovereign! God uses nations for His purposes. He brings down one nation with another nation. No leader stays in power unless Sovereign God allows it. He will redeem his people even after allowing them to be taken into captivity.
Application
I think of Cuba and other nations like it where the leaders seem to be dead set against God and are so evil. Yet God has his purpose for allowing those leaders to stay in power. I don’t believe Castro will stay in power one second longer than our Sovereign God wants. The church has flourished in Cuba because of the persecution. Romans 8:28 says, “That God causes all things to work to the good of those that love him.” I have to keep reminding myself that God is sovereign and he is in control.
Prayer
Father, you bring down nations and raise up nations according to your will. You are Sovereign and worthy to be praised. May your will be done in countries like Cuba, Korea, Iran, the Sudan etc, and may many in those countries come to know you in spite of the persecution and harsh ungodly leaders.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
Indescribable!
Ezekiel 25; Ezekiel 26; Ezekiel 27; Ezekiel 28; Revelation 10
Scripture
Revelation 10:1 “Then I saw another mighty angel coming down from heaven. He was robed in a cloud, with a rainbow above his head; his face was like the sun, and his legs were like fiery pillars. 2He was holding a little scroll, which lay open in his hand. He planted his right foot on the sea and his left foot on the land, 3and he gave a loud shout like the roar of a lion.”
Observation
Can you visualize this Angel and the entire scene! He was robed in a cloud with a rainbow above his head and face like the sun and legs like fiery pillars. I think that John was trying to describe the indescribable!
Application
I would love to have a glimpse of Heaven like John had but I don’t want to be exiled on an island to have that opportunity. I think that I will just appreciate what John describes as we read through Revelation.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I would love to see Heaven. And today I have gotten a little glimpse. Help me to enjoy what I am seeing through the eyes of your servant John as I read Revelation. Open my eyes to new things. Open my heart to new things too.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezekiel 25; Ezekiel 26; Ezekiel 27; Ezekiel 28; Revelation 10
Scripture
Revelation 10:1 “Then I saw another mighty angel coming down from heaven. He was robed in a cloud, with a rainbow above his head; his face was like the sun, and his legs were like fiery pillars. 2He was holding a little scroll, which lay open in his hand. He planted his right foot on the sea and his left foot on the land, 3and he gave a loud shout like the roar of a lion.”
Observation
Can you visualize this Angel and the entire scene! He was robed in a cloud with a rainbow above his head and face like the sun and legs like fiery pillars. I think that John was trying to describe the indescribable!
Application
I would love to have a glimpse of Heaven like John had but I don’t want to be exiled on an island to have that opportunity. I think that I will just appreciate what John describes as we read through Revelation.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I would love to see Heaven. And today I have gotten a little glimpse. Help me to enjoy what I am seeing through the eyes of your servant John as I read Revelation. Open my eyes to new things. Open my heart to new things too.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Indescribable!
Ezekiel 25; Ezekiel 26; Ezekiel 27; Ezekiel 28; Revelation 10
Scripture
Revelation 10:1 “Then I saw another mighty angel coming down from heaven. He was robed in a cloud, with a rainbow above his head; his face was like the sun, and his legs were like fiery pillars. 2He was holding a little scroll, which lay open in his hand. He planted his right foot on the sea and his left foot on the land, 3and he gave a loud shout like the roar of a lion.”
Observation
Can you visualize this Angel and the entire scene! He was robed in a cloud with a rainbow above his head and face like the sun and legs like fiery pillars. I think that John was trying to describe the indescribable!
Application
I would love to have a glimpse of Heaven like John had but I don’t want to be exiled on an island to have that opportunity. I think that I will just appreciate what John describes as we read through Revelation.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I would love to see Heaven. And today I have gotten a little glimpse. Help me to enjoy what I am seeing through the eyes of your servant John as I read Revelation. Open my eyes to new things. Open my heart to new things too.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezekiel 25; Ezekiel 26; Ezekiel 27; Ezekiel 28; Revelation 10
Scripture
Revelation 10:1 “Then I saw another mighty angel coming down from heaven. He was robed in a cloud, with a rainbow above his head; his face was like the sun, and his legs were like fiery pillars. 2He was holding a little scroll, which lay open in his hand. He planted his right foot on the sea and his left foot on the land, 3and he gave a loud shout like the roar of a lion.”
Observation
Can you visualize this Angel and the entire scene! He was robed in a cloud with a rainbow above his head and face like the sun and legs like fiery pillars. I think that John was trying to describe the indescribable!
Application
I would love to have a glimpse of Heaven like John had but I don’t want to be exiled on an island to have that opportunity. I think that I will just appreciate what John describes as we read through Revelation.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I would love to see Heaven. And today I have gotten a little glimpse. Help me to enjoy what I am seeing through the eyes of your servant John as I read Revelation. Open my eyes to new things. Open my heart to new things too.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Indescribable!
Ezekiel 25; Ezekiel 26; Ezekiel 27; Ezekiel 28; Revelation 10
Scripture
Revelation 10:1 “Then I saw another mighty angel coming down from heaven. He was robed in a cloud, with a rainbow above his head; his face was like the sun, and his legs were like fiery pillars. 2He was holding a little scroll, which lay open in his hand. He planted his right foot on the sea and his left foot on the land, 3and he gave a loud shout like the roar of a lion.”
Observation
Can you visualize this Angel and the entire scene! He was robed in a cloud with a rainbow above his head and face like the sun and legs like fiery pillars. I think that John was trying to describe the indescribable!
Application
I would love to have a glimpse of Heaven like John had but I don’t want to be exiled on an island to have that opportunity. I think that I will just appreciate what John describes as we read through Revelation.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I would love to see Heaven. And today I have gotten a little glimpse. Help me to enjoy what I am seeing through the eyes of your servant John as I read Revelation. Open my eyes to new things. Open my heart to new things too.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezekiel 25; Ezekiel 26; Ezekiel 27; Ezekiel 28; Revelation 10
Scripture
Revelation 10:1 “Then I saw another mighty angel coming down from heaven. He was robed in a cloud, with a rainbow above his head; his face was like the sun, and his legs were like fiery pillars. 2He was holding a little scroll, which lay open in his hand. He planted his right foot on the sea and his left foot on the land, 3and he gave a loud shout like the roar of a lion.”
Observation
Can you visualize this Angel and the entire scene! He was robed in a cloud with a rainbow above his head and face like the sun and legs like fiery pillars. I think that John was trying to describe the indescribable!
Application
I would love to have a glimpse of Heaven like John had but I don’t want to be exiled on an island to have that opportunity. I think that I will just appreciate what John describes as we read through Revelation.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I would love to see Heaven. And today I have gotten a little glimpse. Help me to enjoy what I am seeing through the eyes of your servant John as I read Revelation. Open my eyes to new things. Open my heart to new things too.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Saturday, September 02, 2006
Can’t Blame Everything on Your Dad!
Ezekiel 17; Ezekiel 18; Ezekiel 19; Revelation 7
Scripture
Ezekiel 18:20 “The soul who sins is the one who will die. The son will not share the guilt of the father, nor will the father share the guilt of the son.
30 "Therefore, O house of Israel, I will judge you, each one according to his ways, declares the Sovereign LORD. Repent! Turn away from all your offenses; then sin will not be your downfall. 31 Rid yourselves of all the offenses you have committed, and get a new heart and a new spirit. Why will you die, O house of Israel? 32 For I take no pleasure in the death of anyone, declares the Sovereign LORD. Repent and live!”
Observation
My Dad never took us to church. The only time he mentioned God’s name was using it with a curse word! You would have thought that he and Jesus were on a first name basis as much as he used Jesus’ Name. I am glad that I don’t have to pay for my Dad’s sins. God doesn’t hold his life against me! The message is to all of us is “Repent and Live”! His mother was a Godly woman and she did impact my life. I believe that I am a Christian today because of my grandmother!
Application
I need to influence my grandchildren and help them walk with the Lord. I pray that they would be drawn to him and not follow the way of the world.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me continue to influence my grown children and my grandchildren. Help me to set an example of what a Christian should be. Thank you for saving my grandmother and allowing her to touch my life.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezekiel 17; Ezekiel 18; Ezekiel 19; Revelation 7
Scripture
Ezekiel 18:20 “The soul who sins is the one who will die. The son will not share the guilt of the father, nor will the father share the guilt of the son.
30 "Therefore, O house of Israel, I will judge you, each one according to his ways, declares the Sovereign LORD. Repent! Turn away from all your offenses; then sin will not be your downfall. 31 Rid yourselves of all the offenses you have committed, and get a new heart and a new spirit. Why will you die, O house of Israel? 32 For I take no pleasure in the death of anyone, declares the Sovereign LORD. Repent and live!”
Observation
My Dad never took us to church. The only time he mentioned God’s name was using it with a curse word! You would have thought that he and Jesus were on a first name basis as much as he used Jesus’ Name. I am glad that I don’t have to pay for my Dad’s sins. God doesn’t hold his life against me! The message is to all of us is “Repent and Live”! His mother was a Godly woman and she did impact my life. I believe that I am a Christian today because of my grandmother!
Application
I need to influence my grandchildren and help them walk with the Lord. I pray that they would be drawn to him and not follow the way of the world.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me continue to influence my grown children and my grandchildren. Help me to set an example of what a Christian should be. Thank you for saving my grandmother and allowing her to touch my life.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Friday, September 01, 2006
Animals in Heaven?
Ezekiel 15; Ezekiel 16; Psalm 70; Revelation 6
Scripture
Revelation 6: 4 “Then another horse came out, a fiery red one. Its rider was given power to take peace from the earth and to make men slay each other. To him was given a large sword.”
Observation
I don’t know if your pet is going to be in Heaven, but there are some horses mentioned in Revelation 6! With all the neat Bible Studies going on about Heaven I am sure that this is one of the questions asked! Pastor Rapley Armstong is convinced that we will fish in Heaven. He even has some scripture to back that claim up!
Application
Heaven is going to be an awesome place! We need to take as many people with us as we can!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I am not really worried about whether there will be animals in Heaven, but I am concerned that my children, my grandchildren, my extended family, and all my friends and neighbors know the Way!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezekiel 15; Ezekiel 16; Psalm 70; Revelation 6
Scripture
Revelation 6: 4 “Then another horse came out, a fiery red one. Its rider was given power to take peace from the earth and to make men slay each other. To him was given a large sword.”
Observation
I don’t know if your pet is going to be in Heaven, but there are some horses mentioned in Revelation 6! With all the neat Bible Studies going on about Heaven I am sure that this is one of the questions asked! Pastor Rapley Armstong is convinced that we will fish in Heaven. He even has some scripture to back that claim up!
Application
Heaven is going to be an awesome place! We need to take as many people with us as we can!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I am not really worried about whether there will be animals in Heaven, but I am concerned that my children, my grandchildren, my extended family, and all my friends and neighbors know the Way!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Thursday, August 31, 2006
I CAN ONLY IMAGINE!
Ezekiel 12; Ezekiel 13; Ezekiel 14; Revelation 5
Scripture
Revelation 5:11-14 “Then I looked and heard the voice of many angels, numbering thousands upon thousands, and ten thousand times ten thousand. They encircled the throne and the living creatures and the elders. In a loud voice they sang:
"Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain,
to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength
and honor and glory and praise!"
Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all that is in them, singing:
"To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb
be praise and honor and glory and power,
for ever and ever!" The four living creatures said, "Amen," and the elders fell down and worshiped.
Observation
I can’t even imagine what it will be like around the throne of God, but it sounds like it is going to be unbelievable! Thousands and thousands of angels singing, thousands and thousands of believers praising Him is to beyond our imagination! When I went to the Promise Keepers Rally in Washington D.C. the praise and worship at that moment was a little glimpse of maybe what it is going to be like in Heaven! God created us to praise Him. This past Sunday’s praise and worship at our church was also a small glimpse of Heaven.
Application
Heaven becomes more attractive everyday. I plan to give God praise all day today!
Prayer
Father, you are worthy of worship! Help me not to set up idols in my heart. I want you to be the priority of my life. Help me help our people worship you in a way that prepares all of us for Heaven!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezekiel 12; Ezekiel 13; Ezekiel 14; Revelation 5
Scripture
Revelation 5:11-14 “Then I looked and heard the voice of many angels, numbering thousands upon thousands, and ten thousand times ten thousand. They encircled the throne and the living creatures and the elders. In a loud voice they sang:
"Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain,
to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength
and honor and glory and praise!"
Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all that is in them, singing:
"To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb
be praise and honor and glory and power,
for ever and ever!" The four living creatures said, "Amen," and the elders fell down and worshiped.
Observation
I can’t even imagine what it will be like around the throne of God, but it sounds like it is going to be unbelievable! Thousands and thousands of angels singing, thousands and thousands of believers praising Him is to beyond our imagination! When I went to the Promise Keepers Rally in Washington D.C. the praise and worship at that moment was a little glimpse of maybe what it is going to be like in Heaven! God created us to praise Him. This past Sunday’s praise and worship at our church was also a small glimpse of Heaven.
Application
Heaven becomes more attractive everyday. I plan to give God praise all day today!
Prayer
Father, you are worthy of worship! Help me not to set up idols in my heart. I want you to be the priority of my life. Help me help our people worship you in a way that prepares all of us for Heaven!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Tuesday, August 29, 2006
Invite God to Join Us in Our Circumstances!
Ezekiel 4; Ezekiel 5; Ezekiel 6; Ezekiel 7; Revelation 3
Scripture
Rev. 3:20 “Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me.”
Observation
Our small group is doing a four-week Bible study called, “The Way of the Worshiper”. Buddy Owens, one of the pastors at Saddleback Church is leading the study via a DVD presentation. He says that worship is when we ascribe value to God. How much do you value God? He suggests that we need to invite God into our circumstances. Are you in a crisis? Buddy Owens says, “Just worship God in your crisis”. We should live ours lives as an act of worship!
Application
I want to worship God 24/7. Not just on Sunday and not just during my devotional time or my quiet time I want it to be all day and all night!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me be able to worship you no matter what. Don’t let me lose sight of you. I want my life to be an act of worship. I want to make you smile.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezekiel 4; Ezekiel 5; Ezekiel 6; Ezekiel 7; Revelation 3
Scripture
Rev. 3:20 “Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me.”
Observation
Our small group is doing a four-week Bible study called, “The Way of the Worshiper”. Buddy Owens, one of the pastors at Saddleback Church is leading the study via a DVD presentation. He says that worship is when we ascribe value to God. How much do you value God? He suggests that we need to invite God into our circumstances. Are you in a crisis? Buddy Owens says, “Just worship God in your crisis”. We should live ours lives as an act of worship!
Application
I want to worship God 24/7. Not just on Sunday and not just during my devotional time or my quiet time I want it to be all day and all night!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me be able to worship you no matter what. Don’t let me lose sight of you. I want my life to be an act of worship. I want to make you smile.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Monday, August 28, 2006
Victory is Ours!
Scripture
Rev. 2:7 “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, I will give the right to eat from the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God.”
Observation
Many Christians go around defeated and act like we lost the battle! All they have to do is turn to the book of Revelation to find out that we win! The Victory is Ours! We are Overcomers! Read the end of the book! 1 John 5:4 “for everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.” WOW! Christians should respond differently to life’s problem than those that don’t know Christ! We are on the winning team!
Application
I need to practice claiming the victory! When fear of defeat enters my thoughts, I need to remind myself that I am on the winning team.
Prayer
Thank you, Heavenly Father for showing me how things will finally end up! Life is full of struggles and the battle is fierce, but the victory is ours! Thank you for the strength to fight the battle. Give me the energy I need for this week’s attacks! Help me to fight the good fight!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ezekiel 1; Ezekiel 2; Ezekiel 3; Revelation 2
Scripture
Rev. 2:7 “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, I will give the right to eat from the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God.”
Observation
Many Christians go around defeated and act like we lost the battle! All they have to do is turn to the book of Revelation to find out that we win! The Victory is Ours! We are Overcomers! Read the end of the book! 1 John 5:4 “for everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.” WOW! Christians should respond differently to life’s problem than those that don’t know Christ! We are on the winning team!
Application
I need to practice claiming the victory! When fear of defeat enters my thoughts, I need to remind myself that I am on the winning team.
Prayer
Thank you, Heavenly Father for showing me how things will finally end up! Life is full of struggles and the battle is fierce, but the victory is ours! Thank you for the strength to fight the battle. Give me the energy I need for this week’s attacks! Help me to fight the good fight!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Friday, August 25, 2006
Face to Face!
Jeremiah 37; Jeremiah 38; Jeremiah 39; Psalm 79; 2 John 1
Scripture
2 John 1:12 “I have much to write to you, but I do not want to use paper and ink. Instead, I hope to visit you and talk with you face to face, so that our joy may be complete.”
Observation
Email is great, blogs are fun, letters are good, telephone calls are ok, but sometimes there is nothing better than talking to someone face to face! Some things just can’t be expressed correctly unless you are face to face. When you communicate face to face the person gets to see your body language and you get to see theirs! It is easier to communicate clearly when you talk face to face. Especially when what you are sharing is going to bring JOY!
Application
I meet with some guys every Thursday for breakfast and I meet with some pastors every Wednesday for lunch. It is great to talk to these guys face to face. I have some other folks that I need to meet with this week and a phone call just won’t do.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I look forward to the day when I can talk to you face to face!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Jeremiah 37; Jeremiah 38; Jeremiah 39; Psalm 79; 2 John 1
Scripture
2 John 1:12 “I have much to write to you, but I do not want to use paper and ink. Instead, I hope to visit you and talk with you face to face, so that our joy may be complete.”
Observation
Email is great, blogs are fun, letters are good, telephone calls are ok, but sometimes there is nothing better than talking to someone face to face! Some things just can’t be expressed correctly unless you are face to face. When you communicate face to face the person gets to see your body language and you get to see theirs! It is easier to communicate clearly when you talk face to face. Especially when what you are sharing is going to bring JOY!
Application
I meet with some guys every Thursday for breakfast and I meet with some pastors every Wednesday for lunch. It is great to talk to these guys face to face. I have some other folks that I need to meet with this week and a phone call just won’t do.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I look forward to the day when I can talk to you face to face!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Thursday, August 24, 2006
God’s Phone Number “Jeremiah 33:3”
Jeremiah 33; Jeremiah 34; Psalm 74; 1 John 5
Scripture
Jeremiah 33:3 “Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.”
1 John 5:14-15 “This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him.
Observation
We do have a direct line to God.
Jeremiah 33:3 has been called “God’s Phone Number”. Talk to me God says and I will tell you some great incredible stuff. I will answer you if you talk to me! This verse has come to my mind many times when I have thought about talking to my Heavenly Father. 1 John 5:14-15 says, “This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. Then he goes on to say that because he hears us we know that we have what we asked him! What great promises!
Application
I need to ask big! I have a huge God that is more than able to answer me and he wants me to ask big!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I am calling on you right now. Do mighty things at our church. Do wonderful things in the life of our people. Help us to ask you for things that are in your will so you can give us what we ask! Thank you for being such a great provider! I pray that this weekend service bring you glory and honor. May lives be changed through the testimonies that will be shared.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Jeremiah 33; Jeremiah 34; Psalm 74; 1 John 5
Scripture
Jeremiah 33:3 “Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.”
1 John 5:14-15 “This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him.
Observation
We do have a direct line to God.
Jeremiah 33:3 has been called “God’s Phone Number”. Talk to me God says and I will tell you some great incredible stuff. I will answer you if you talk to me! This verse has come to my mind many times when I have thought about talking to my Heavenly Father. 1 John 5:14-15 says, “This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. Then he goes on to say that because he hears us we know that we have what we asked him! What great promises!
Application
I need to ask big! I have a huge God that is more than able to answer me and he wants me to ask big!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I am calling on you right now. Do mighty things at our church. Do wonderful things in the life of our people. Help us to ask you for things that are in your will so you can give us what we ask! Thank you for being such a great provider! I pray that this weekend service bring you glory and honor. May lives be changed through the testimonies that will be shared.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Wednesday, August 23, 2006
Nothing is Too Hard For My God!
Jeremiah 31; Jeremiah 32; 1 John 4
Scripture
Jeremiah 32:17 "Ah, Sovereign LORD, you have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for you.
Jeremiah 32:27 "I am the LORD, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me?
Observation
Is there anything too hard for God?
When God created the universe, when He created the Earth and everything in it He didn’t get tired and it wasn’t something that exhausted Him. He is All Powerful. Everything is easy for Him. I heard the story about a teacher that asked a class, “Is there anything too hard for God?” A little boy asked, “Can God make a rock so big that He couldn’t pick it up?” God can heal someone with cancer, create a new planet or star, or raise someone from the dead and it is all easy for Him.
Application
Nothing that I am facing in my life is too difficult for God to handle. Nothing is too big and nothing is too small for God. He is my Heavenly Father that cares for me.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, there are a few things in my life right now that seem impossible. I am reminded today that nothing is too hard for you. Impossible is not in your vocabulary. Help me today to roll my cares over on to you so that you can handle them for me. Thank you for not being too tired this morning to listen to me, and thank you for being strong enough to take care of all of my needs!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Jeremiah 31; Jeremiah 32; 1 John 4
Scripture
Jeremiah 32:17 "Ah, Sovereign LORD, you have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for you.
Jeremiah 32:27 "I am the LORD, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me?
Observation
Is there anything too hard for God?
When God created the universe, when He created the Earth and everything in it He didn’t get tired and it wasn’t something that exhausted Him. He is All Powerful. Everything is easy for Him. I heard the story about a teacher that asked a class, “Is there anything too hard for God?” A little boy asked, “Can God make a rock so big that He couldn’t pick it up?” God can heal someone with cancer, create a new planet or star, or raise someone from the dead and it is all easy for Him.
Application
Nothing that I am facing in my life is too difficult for God to handle. Nothing is too big and nothing is too small for God. He is my Heavenly Father that cares for me.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, there are a few things in my life right now that seem impossible. I am reminded today that nothing is too hard for you. Impossible is not in your vocabulary. Help me today to roll my cares over on to you so that you can handle them for me. Thank you for not being too tired this morning to listen to me, and thank you for being strong enough to take care of all of my needs!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
Extravagant Love!
Jeremiah 28; Jeremiah 29; Jeremiah 30; 1 John 3
Scripture
Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. 12 Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. 13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.
1 John 3:1 “How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him.”
Observation
These two passages were just too good to pass up so I have to write about both of them. Jeremiah’s words to the remnant of Israel and John’s words in I John reflect God’s heart for us. God has plans for us. Plans so great that they are beyond our comprehension! In I John the Apostle John says that God lavishes his love on us. In our small group Bible study that we had last night we learned that it is the Prodigal Father rather than the Prodigal son in the parable found in Luke 15! God pours out His love on us. He is extravagant with His love.
Application
I want to share these two passages with someone this week that has the wrong idea about what God is like.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me find someone to share the Good News of your Wonderful Love. Thank you for being so extravagant with your Love, with your Mercy, with your Grace. Thank you that I can be called a child of God.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Jeremiah 28; Jeremiah 29; Jeremiah 30; 1 John 3
Scripture
Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. 12 Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. 13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.
1 John 3:1 “How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him.”
Observation
These two passages were just too good to pass up so I have to write about both of them. Jeremiah’s words to the remnant of Israel and John’s words in I John reflect God’s heart for us. God has plans for us. Plans so great that they are beyond our comprehension! In I John the Apostle John says that God lavishes his love on us. In our small group Bible study that we had last night we learned that it is the Prodigal Father rather than the Prodigal son in the parable found in Luke 15! God pours out His love on us. He is extravagant with His love.
Application
I want to share these two passages with someone this week that has the wrong idea about what God is like.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me find someone to share the Good News of your Wonderful Love. Thank you for being so extravagant with your Love, with your Mercy, with your Grace. Thank you that I can be called a child of God.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Monday, August 21, 2006
A Heart to Know God!
Jeremiah 21; Jeremiah 24; Jeremiah 27; Psalm 118; 1 John 2
Scripture
Jeremiah 24:7 “I will give them a heart to know me, that I am the LORD. They will be my people, and I will be their God, for they will return to me with all their heart.”
Observation
God tells Jeremiah that He is going to give the remnant that is in exile a “heart to know Him”. When I pray for people that do not know Christ I ask God to give them a heart that will want to know Him.
Application
I will not give up praying for my family and my friends that do not know Christ. I will continue to ask God to give them a heart to know Him!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, please help me never to stop praying for those that do not know you and those that are not walking with you. Please save those in my family that are walking in darkness. Please give them a “Heart to know you”!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Jeremiah 21; Jeremiah 24; Jeremiah 27; Psalm 118; 1 John 2
Scripture
Jeremiah 24:7 “I will give them a heart to know me, that I am the LORD. They will be my people, and I will be their God, for they will return to me with all their heart.”
Observation
God tells Jeremiah that He is going to give the remnant that is in exile a “heart to know Him”. When I pray for people that do not know Christ I ask God to give them a heart that will want to know Him.
Application
I will not give up praying for my family and my friends that do not know Christ. I will continue to ask God to give them a heart to know Him!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, please help me never to stop praying for those that do not know you and those that are not walking with you. Please save those in my family that are walking in darkness. Please give them a “Heart to know you”!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Saturday, August 19, 2006
What About Them?
Jeremiah 45; Jeremiah 46; Jeremiah 47; Psalm 105; John 21
Scripture
John 21:20 “Peter turned around and saw the disciple Jesus loved following them--the one who had leaned over to Jesus during supper and asked, "Lord, who among us will betray you?" 21Peter asked Jesus, "What about him, Lord?"
Observation
Isn’t it human nature that when God begins to speak to us about doing something we begin to look to see what the folks around us are doing! Peter was just asked 3 times, Peter, do you love me? Peter, do you love me? Peter, do you love me? Peter finally responded, “Lord you know that I love you”. Then after Peter was told by Jesus, “Follow Me” Peter asked Jesus, “Well what about him Lord”. Jesus told Peter, “Don’t worry about him, you “Follow Me”.
Application
I can’t worry about what other people are doing or not doing. God has called me to do certain things and I don’t need to fret over what others are not doing. I need to concentrate on what God has told me to do.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me be obedient to what you tell me to do. It doesn’t matter how many other people are there to help. Help me to be faithful to you. Help me serve and try to please an audience of One! I love you.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Jeremiah 45; Jeremiah 46; Jeremiah 47; Psalm 105; John 21
Scripture
John 21:20 “Peter turned around and saw the disciple Jesus loved following them--the one who had leaned over to Jesus during supper and asked, "Lord, who among us will betray you?" 21Peter asked Jesus, "What about him, Lord?"
Observation
Isn’t it human nature that when God begins to speak to us about doing something we begin to look to see what the folks around us are doing! Peter was just asked 3 times, Peter, do you love me? Peter, do you love me? Peter, do you love me? Peter finally responded, “Lord you know that I love you”. Then after Peter was told by Jesus, “Follow Me” Peter asked Jesus, “Well what about him Lord”. Jesus told Peter, “Don’t worry about him, you “Follow Me”.
Application
I can’t worry about what other people are doing or not doing. God has called me to do certain things and I don’t need to fret over what others are not doing. I need to concentrate on what God has told me to do.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me be obedient to what you tell me to do. It doesn’t matter how many other people are there to help. Help me to be faithful to you. Help me serve and try to please an audience of One! I love you.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
Pray for One Another!
Scripture
John 17:20
"My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message,
Observation
Jesus prayed for me! He also continues to pray for me! Hebrews 7:25 “Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.” I didn’t deserve to be saved. I still don’t deserve the salvation that I have. Jesus loves me just as I am. He prays for me so that I don’t stay just as I am! Prayer and intercession was so important to Jesus.
Application
Jesus is interceding right now for me. I need to follow his example and intercede for others. It is our most important work!
Prayer
Father, thank you for letting me know through your Word that Jesus continues to talk to you on my behalf. Please bring to my mind the people that I need to pray for.
Scripture
John 17:20
"My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message,
Observation
Jesus prayed for me! He also continues to pray for me! Hebrews 7:25 “Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.” I didn’t deserve to be saved. I still don’t deserve the salvation that I have. Jesus loves me just as I am. He prays for me so that I don’t stay just as I am! Prayer and intercession was so important to Jesus.
Application
Jesus is interceding right now for me. I need to follow his example and intercede for others. It is our most important work!
Prayer
Father, thank you for letting me know through your Word that Jesus continues to talk to you on my behalf. Please bring to my mind the people that I need to pray for.
Blessed!
2 Kings 24; Jeremiah 22; Psalm 112; John 18
Scripture
Psalm 112:1 “Praise the LORD. Blessed is the man who fears the LORD, who finds great delight in his commands.”
Observation
Blessed is the man that fears the Lord. The rest of the Psalm is filled with how God blesses someone that fears Him. He says that his children will be mighty. He will not fear hearing bad news because his heart is secure and steadfast. He will have victory over his enemies.
Application
I am blessed. I can’t begin to count all the ways that God has blessed me. I plan to thank God all day long for His goodness and for all his blessings.
Prayer
Father, thank you for blessing me with a wonderful wife and family. Thank you for blessing me with so many grandchildren. Thank you for blessing me with so many good friends. You have been so good to me!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
2 Kings 24; Jeremiah 22; Psalm 112; John 18
Scripture
Psalm 112:1 “Praise the LORD. Blessed is the man who fears the LORD, who finds great delight in his commands.”
Observation
Blessed is the man that fears the Lord. The rest of the Psalm is filled with how God blesses someone that fears Him. He says that his children will be mighty. He will not fear hearing bad news because his heart is secure and steadfast. He will have victory over his enemies.
Application
I am blessed. I can’t begin to count all the ways that God has blessed me. I plan to thank God all day long for His goodness and for all his blessings.
Prayer
Father, thank you for blessing me with a wonderful wife and family. Thank you for blessing me with so many grandchildren. Thank you for blessing me with so many good friends. You have been so good to me!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Monday, August 14, 2006
Trouble, Trouble, Trouble, with Peace!
Jeremiah 16; Jeremiah 17; Psalm 96; John 16
Scripture
John 16:33 "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
Observation
Jesus is getting ready to go to the cross to die in our place. He is telling his disciples that even though they would be left to live in a world filled with trouble, he would give them peace. He would provide peace right in the middle of trouble. Life is tough! Life is full of trouble! I am glad that Jesus can give us a perfect peace in spite of all of our problems!
Application
Over and over again in John 14 - 16 Jesus says that he is leaving a Comforter (the Holy Spirit) so that we could have joy and peace in the midst of life’s difficulties. We need to place our faith and trust in Him.
Prayer
Father, help me to put my complete faith and trust in your Word. I won’t to experience your peace and your joy in the midst of all my problems and struggles. Thank you for telling me that I can ask anything in your Name and you will provide it. You are a Mighty Provider!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Jeremiah 16; Jeremiah 17; Psalm 96; John 16
Scripture
John 16:33 "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
Observation
Jesus is getting ready to go to the cross to die in our place. He is telling his disciples that even though they would be left to live in a world filled with trouble, he would give them peace. He would provide peace right in the middle of trouble. Life is tough! Life is full of trouble! I am glad that Jesus can give us a perfect peace in spite of all of our problems!
Application
Over and over again in John 14 - 16 Jesus says that he is leaving a Comforter (the Holy Spirit) so that we could have joy and peace in the midst of life’s difficulties. We need to place our faith and trust in Him.
Prayer
Father, help me to put my complete faith and trust in your Word. I won’t to experience your peace and your joy in the midst of all my problems and struggles. Thank you for telling me that I can ask anything in your Name and you will provide it. You are a Mighty Provider!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Thursday, August 10, 2006
Light, Love, Life
Jeremiah 10; Jeremiah 11; Jeremiah 12; John 14
John 13:34" A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. 35 By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."
John 14:6 “Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
Observation
In Chapter 12 Jesus says that He is Light. He said that we should become sons of light. He wants that light spread out all over Tampa, because we live in a dark place! In Chapter 13 He commands us to love one another and those people that live in darkness will know that we are his disciples because of our love for one another! The Jesus sums it all up in Chapter 14 by declaring that He is the only way to God the Father. He is eternal life.
Application
I need to realize that the world is watching me. They will know if I am a disciple of Jesus Christ by the love I show other Christians! Wow!
Prayer
Father, help me to be the light to the world around me. Help me to love others deeply. Help me to express that love in such a way that it brings people to a saving knowledge of you. You are wonderful.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Jeremiah 10; Jeremiah 11; Jeremiah 12; John 14
John 12, 13, 14
John 13:34" A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. 35 By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."
John 14:6 “Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
Observation
In Chapter 12 Jesus says that He is Light. He said that we should become sons of light. He wants that light spread out all over Tampa, because we live in a dark place! In Chapter 13 He commands us to love one another and those people that live in darkness will know that we are his disciples because of our love for one another! The Jesus sums it all up in Chapter 14 by declaring that He is the only way to God the Father. He is eternal life.
Application
I need to realize that the world is watching me. They will know if I am a disciple of Jesus Christ by the love I show other Christians! Wow!
Prayer
Father, help me to be the light to the world around me. Help me to love others deeply. Help me to express that love in such a way that it brings people to a saving knowledge of you. You are wonderful.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Wednesday, August 09, 2006
Do You Believe This?
Jeremiah 3; Jeremiah 4; John 11
Scripture
John 11:25 “Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; 26and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?"
Observation
The question at the end of verse 26 is one of the most important four word questions that we could ever be asked! “Do you believe this”? Do you believe that Jesus Christ can save you and give you eternal life? Do you believe He can? Do you believe this? Martha and Mary both thought that if Jesus had been there before Lazarus had died that Jesus could have healed him. They knew that Jesus worked miracles. But to bring a dead brother back to life after being dead for 3 days could they believe that? Jesus wanted to show that He has power over death and decay, and that nothing is too hard for him. I would have liked to be there when he called Lazarus by name and told him to come out! Wow! One day that very same thing will happen to us! We will be resurrected and given a new body!
Application
I need to share my faith. I need to ask the question, “Do you believe this”?
Prayer
Father, help me share my faith. Help me to ask penetrating questions like Jesus did to Martha and Mary. Give me the faith I need to serve you today with my whole heart!
Jeremiah 3; Jeremiah 4; John 11
Scripture
John 11:25 “Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; 26and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?"
Observation
The question at the end of verse 26 is one of the most important four word questions that we could ever be asked! “Do you believe this”? Do you believe that Jesus Christ can save you and give you eternal life? Do you believe He can? Do you believe this? Martha and Mary both thought that if Jesus had been there before Lazarus had died that Jesus could have healed him. They knew that Jesus worked miracles. But to bring a dead brother back to life after being dead for 3 days could they believe that? Jesus wanted to show that He has power over death and decay, and that nothing is too hard for him. I would have liked to be there when he called Lazarus by name and told him to come out! Wow! One day that very same thing will happen to us! We will be resurrected and given a new body!
Application
I need to share my faith. I need to ask the question, “Do you believe this”?
Prayer
Father, help me share my faith. Help me to ask penetrating questions like Jesus did to Martha and Mary. Give me the faith I need to serve you today with my whole heart!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Tuesday, August 08, 2006
Ah, Sovereign LORD!
Jeremiah 1; Jeremiah 2; John 10
Scripture
Jeremiah 1:5-6 The word of the LORD came to me, saying, "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations." “Ah, Sovereign LORD," I said, "I do not know how to speak; I am only a child."
John 10:28 “I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand. 29My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father's hand.”
Observation
God is Sovereign! He rules! He is in control. His plan for your life and my life started before the earth was created! God told Jeremiah that before Jeremiah’s mother even thought of having a baby God had already mapped out Jeremiah’s future. In John 10:28, Jesus says that He gives His sheep eternal life and they shall never perish. They are completely safe in His Father’s hand.
Application
God knew me before I ever existed. I existed in the mind and heart of God before the creation of the earth! He is Sovereign! He is in control. He knows every need that I have and He can take care of every problem that comes my way!
Prayer
Lord, you are Awesome! Thank you for including me in you master plan for planet earth! Thank you that I am safe in your hand! Thank you for eternal life. Help me to know and to fulfill your plan and purpose for my life!
Jeremiah 1; Jeremiah 2; John 10
Scripture
Jeremiah 1:5-6 The word of the LORD came to me, saying, "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations." “Ah, Sovereign LORD," I said, "I do not know how to speak; I am only a child."
John 10:28 “I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand. 29My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father's hand.”
Observation
God is Sovereign! He rules! He is in control. His plan for your life and my life started before the earth was created! God told Jeremiah that before Jeremiah’s mother even thought of having a baby God had already mapped out Jeremiah’s future. In John 10:28, Jesus says that He gives His sheep eternal life and they shall never perish. They are completely safe in His Father’s hand.
Application
God knew me before I ever existed. I existed in the mind and heart of God before the creation of the earth! He is Sovereign! He is in control. He knows every need that I have and He can take care of every problem that comes my way!
Prayer
Lord, you are Awesome! Thank you for including me in you master plan for planet earth! Thank you that I am safe in your hand! Thank you for eternal life. Help me to know and to fulfill your plan and purpose for my life!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Monday, August 07, 2006
Now I Can See!
Zephaniah 1; Zephaniah 2; Zephaniah 3; John 9
Scripture
John 9:25 “He replied, "Whether he is a sinner or not, I don't know. One thing I do know. I was blind but now I see!"
Observation
What a testimony! There was a time in my life when I was spiritually blind, but now I can see! Jesus healed this man and the man didn’t even know who Jesus was. He just knew that Jesus had healed him. We don’t have to know everything about the Bible to be able to say, “look what Jesus has done in my life”.
Application
I want to be able to share my testimony with someone this week! May God be glorified through what he has done in my life!
Prayer
Lord, help me to share my testimony this week with someone. Use my testimony to draw someone closer to you. I pray that you would be glorified this week through my life. Thank you for allowing me to see!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Zephaniah 1; Zephaniah 2; Zephaniah 3; John 9
Scripture
John 9:25 “He replied, "Whether he is a sinner or not, I don't know. One thing I do know. I was blind but now I see!"
Observation
What a testimony! There was a time in my life when I was spiritually blind, but now I can see! Jesus healed this man and the man didn’t even know who Jesus was. He just knew that Jesus had healed him. We don’t have to know everything about the Bible to be able to say, “look what Jesus has done in my life”.
Application
I want to be able to share my testimony with someone this week! May God be glorified through what he has done in my life!
Prayer
Lord, help me to share my testimony this week with someone. Use my testimony to draw someone closer to you. I pray that you would be glorified this week through my life. Thank you for allowing me to see!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Sunday, August 06, 2006
Wednesday, August 02, 2006
This Man Really Is The Savior of The World!
2 Kings 21; 2 Chronicles 33; John 4
Scripture
John 4:42 “They said to the woman, "We no longer believe just because of what you said; now we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this man really is the Savior of the world."
Observation
The Samaritan Woman was probably known by her many marriages and ungodly life style! Jesus made a trip through Samaria just so she could have a changed life. He did not condemn her for the five marriages or for her sinful lifestyle. He shared with her that she could have “Living Water”, that she could have an eternal relationship with God by trusting Jesus. She listened to Jesus and trusted in Him. Then she ran back to the city and told everyone about what had happened to her. The folks came out from the city to meet Jesus and many of them became believers!
Application
Jesus went out of his way to share the Good News with the Samaritan Woman. No sinner is too bad to come to Christ! I need to look for folks like the “Samaritan Woman” and share Christ with them.
Prayer
Father, help me to look for people that need the Gospel. Give me your heart, your eyes, and the willingness to go out of my way to share your Good News!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
2 Kings 21; 2 Chronicles 33; John 4
Scripture
John 4:42 “They said to the woman, "We no longer believe just because of what you said; now we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this man really is the Savior of the world."
Observation
The Samaritan Woman was probably known by her many marriages and ungodly life style! Jesus made a trip through Samaria just so she could have a changed life. He did not condemn her for the five marriages or for her sinful lifestyle. He shared with her that she could have “Living Water”, that she could have an eternal relationship with God by trusting Jesus. She listened to Jesus and trusted in Him. Then she ran back to the city and told everyone about what had happened to her. The folks came out from the city to meet Jesus and many of them became believers!
Application
Jesus went out of his way to share the Good News with the Samaritan Woman. No sinner is too bad to come to Christ! I need to look for folks like the “Samaritan Woman” and share Christ with them.
Prayer
Father, help me to look for people that need the Gospel. Give me your heart, your eyes, and the willingness to go out of my way to share your Good News!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Tuesday, August 01, 2006
“I” Must Become Less
Isaiah 65; Isaiah 66; Psalm 62; John 3
Scripture
John 3:30 He must become greater; I must become less.
Observation
John the Baptist was amazing. Have you ever thought about how it must have felt for John to have Jesus arrive on the scene and take his place of leadership! His disciples began to leave him and follow Jesus. Jesus began to have more people following him than John. John realized that Jesus must become greater and he must become less. AMAZING! David and Jonathan, Paul and Barnabas are great examples for us to follow. Jonathan recognized God’s hand on David and gave David his throne, Barnabas let Paul take the lead once they began their ministry together! So we don’t always have to be the boss!
Application
I need to be a “Barnabas” and help others become great leaders. And I need to have the servant heart of John the Baptist and become less and allow others to become greater!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for guys like John the Baptist, Paul and Barnabas, and David and Jonathan! Help me to have a heart like their’s!
Isaiah 65; Isaiah 66; Psalm 62; John 3
Scripture
John 3:30 He must become greater; I must become less.
Observation
John the Baptist was amazing. Have you ever thought about how it must have felt for John to have Jesus arrive on the scene and take his place of leadership! His disciples began to leave him and follow Jesus. Jesus began to have more people following him than John. John realized that Jesus must become greater and he must become less. AMAZING! David and Jonathan, Paul and Barnabas are great examples for us to follow. Jonathan recognized God’s hand on David and gave David his throne, Barnabas let Paul take the lead once they began their ministry together! So we don’t always have to be the boss!
Application
I need to be a “Barnabas” and help others become great leaders. And I need to have the servant heart of John the Baptist and become less and allow others to become greater!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for guys like John the Baptist, Paul and Barnabas, and David and Jonathan! Help me to have a heart like their’s!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)