Burning Within!
Exodus 9; Exodus 10; Exodus 11; Luke 24
Scripture
On the Road to Emmaus
Luke 24
13 Now that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem. 14 They were talking with each other about everything that had happened. 15 As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them; 16 but they were kept from recognizing him.
17 He asked them, "What are you discussing together as you walk along?"
They stood still, their faces downcast. 18 One of them, named Cleopas, asked him, "Are you only a visitor to Jerusalem and do not know the things that have happened there in these days?"
19 "What things?" he asked.
"About Jesus of Nazareth," they replied. "He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people. 20 The chief priests and our rulers handed him over to be sentenced to death, and they crucified him; 21 but we had hoped that he was the one who was going to redeem Israel. And what is more, it is the third day since all this took place. 22 In addition, some of our women amazed us. They went to the tomb early this morning 23 but didn't find his body. They came and told us that they had seen a vision of angels, who said he was alive. 24 Then some of our companions went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but him they did not see."
25 He said to them, "How foolish you are, and how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! 26 Did not the Christ have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?" 27 And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.
28 As they approached the village to which they were going, Jesus acted as if he were going farther. 29 But they urged him strongly, "Stay with us, for it is nearly evening; the day is almost over." So he went in to stay with them.
30 When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. 31 Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him, and he disappeared from their sight. 32 They asked each other, "Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?"
33 They got up and returned at once to Jerusalem. There they found the Eleven and those with them, assembled together 34 and saying, "It is true! The Lord has risen and has appeared to Simon." 35 Then the two told what had happened on the way, and how Jesus was recognized by them when he broke the bread.
Observation
Cold hands warm heart, have you ever said that to someone? When you are in close fellowship with Jesus that is when you have a warm heart. Can you imagine being in the place of the two disciples walking along the road to Emmaus with Jesus and not even realizing who He is? What excitement they must have felt when they realized that they had been walking with the Resurrected Lord! I experience just a little of what they experienced in my daily devotional time as I read His Word and talk to Him. I hope you do too!
Application
Do you have a cold heart this morning? Have you taken time to be with Jesus? Stop what you are doing and for the next few minutes just concentrate on Him and let Him warm up that old heart of yours. And I will do the same!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, your Word is the source of my strength. It is my spiritual food. I love your Word. I read about your Awesome power this morning as you are preparing to lead the children of Israel out of Egypt and how you protected your children from the destruction of the plagues. You are my Rock, my Hiding Place, my strong tower, and I am safely tucked within Your Hand. Thank you for changing my cold old heart and giving me Eternal Life.
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Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
Today you will be with me in paradise!
Exodus 6; Exodus 7; Exodus 8; Luke 23
Scripture
Luke 23:39-43
39 One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him: "Aren't you the Christ? Save yourself and us!"
40 But the other criminal rebuked him. "Don't you fear God," he said, "since you are under the same sentence? 41 We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong."
42 Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom."
43 Jesus answered him, "I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise."
Observation
I often wonder why people don’t get it when the Bible says that salvation is a “Gift”. You can’t earn it, you don’t deserve it, but God is willing because of His mercy to give it to us as a free gift. I received in the mail yesterday a letter from someone letting me know that I was wrong about salvation and this person insisted that you have to work to keep it! We didn’t work to get it and if we had to work to keep it then it would not be a gift. This thief on the cross did not deserve to go to “paradise” with Jesus, but Jesus told him, “Today you will be with me in paradise.” You and I don’t deserve to be with Jesus in paradise, but if we accept the gift of eternal life that Christ paid for with his very blood and life then we will be there with him forever. It is as simple as that!
Application
The Good News is what people need to hear! The Good News is that Jesus Christ died on the cross to pay the penalty for our sins. And everyone that turns from sin and self receives Him, and has Eternal Life.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, give me patience with people that want to insist that you have to work to have, or insist that you have to work to keep the gift of salvation. Open his or her eyes to your Truth and guide me to someone today that needs to hear about you.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Exodus 6; Exodus 7; Exodus 8; Luke 23
Scripture
Luke 23:39-43
39 One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him: "Aren't you the Christ? Save yourself and us!"
40 But the other criminal rebuked him. "Don't you fear God," he said, "since you are under the same sentence? 41 We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong."
42 Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom."
43 Jesus answered him, "I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise."
Observation
I often wonder why people don’t get it when the Bible says that salvation is a “Gift”. You can’t earn it, you don’t deserve it, but God is willing because of His mercy to give it to us as a free gift. I received in the mail yesterday a letter from someone letting me know that I was wrong about salvation and this person insisted that you have to work to keep it! We didn’t work to get it and if we had to work to keep it then it would not be a gift. This thief on the cross did not deserve to go to “paradise” with Jesus, but Jesus told him, “Today you will be with me in paradise.” You and I don’t deserve to be with Jesus in paradise, but if we accept the gift of eternal life that Christ paid for with his very blood and life then we will be there with him forever. It is as simple as that!
Application
The Good News is what people need to hear! The Good News is that Jesus Christ died on the cross to pay the penalty for our sins. And everyone that turns from sin and self receives Him, and has Eternal Life.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, give me patience with people that want to insist that you have to work to have, or insist that you have to work to keep the gift of salvation. Open his or her eyes to your Truth and guide me to someone today that needs to hear about you.
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Monday, January 22, 2007
Lord, Please Let Me Sit This One Out!
Exodus 3; Exodus 4; Exodus 5; Luke 22
Scripture
Exodus 4: 13 But Moses said, "O Lord, please send someone else to do it."
Observation
Moses is telling the Lord, thanks Lord for thinking about me, but could you send someone else. I would rather sit this one out! Sometimes I think the same thing about my ministry. Lord, I appreciate you allowing me to be a pastor, but I am sure that you can find someone that can do this job a lot better than me. I know how Moses felt.
Maybe you feel the same way about your situation right now. Maybe you are saying, Lord, I am not doing such a good job as a Dad or Mom right now, or maybe your not feeling adequate as a Grandpa or Grandma, or as a Church Leader, or as a Boss, or as a Friend then let me encourage you to take heart! Look at what God did with Moses! Why was it possible? It was possible because Moses realized that he could not do what God was asking him to do and he had to completely rely on God’s power to accomplish the task! Moses was the most humble man that has ever lived and that is also why God could use him so successfully.
Application
God said to Moses, “What is that in your hand”? Moses replied, “It is a staff”. God said, “throw it down.” It became a snake! God is asking of you and me today, “What is in your hand”? When we give what we have to God then He is able to work miracles through us! What is in your hand? Give it to God!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, today I give you my life. Everything I have is yours. Nothing I have is more important than you. If it is then I ask you to take it away. Bless our people Lord. Empower them to work miracles in the lives of the people around them. And Lord, thank you for helping Tony Dungy to win and make it to the Super Bowl. May he bring you much Glory!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Exodus 3; Exodus 4; Exodus 5; Luke 22
Scripture
Exodus 4: 13 But Moses said, "O Lord, please send someone else to do it."
Observation
Moses is telling the Lord, thanks Lord for thinking about me, but could you send someone else. I would rather sit this one out! Sometimes I think the same thing about my ministry. Lord, I appreciate you allowing me to be a pastor, but I am sure that you can find someone that can do this job a lot better than me. I know how Moses felt.
Maybe you feel the same way about your situation right now. Maybe you are saying, Lord, I am not doing such a good job as a Dad or Mom right now, or maybe your not feeling adequate as a Grandpa or Grandma, or as a Church Leader, or as a Boss, or as a Friend then let me encourage you to take heart! Look at what God did with Moses! Why was it possible? It was possible because Moses realized that he could not do what God was asking him to do and he had to completely rely on God’s power to accomplish the task! Moses was the most humble man that has ever lived and that is also why God could use him so successfully.
Application
God said to Moses, “What is that in your hand”? Moses replied, “It is a staff”. God said, “throw it down.” It became a snake! God is asking of you and me today, “What is in your hand”? When we give what we have to God then He is able to work miracles through us! What is in your hand? Give it to God!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, today I give you my life. Everything I have is yours. Nothing I have is more important than you. If it is then I ask you to take it away. Bless our people Lord. Empower them to work miracles in the lives of the people around them. And Lord, thank you for helping Tony Dungy to win and make it to the Super Bowl. May he bring you much Glory!
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Friday, January 19, 2007
The King is Coming!
Genesis 47; Genesis 48; Psalm 10; Luke 19
Scripture
Luke 19:35-40
“They brought it to Jesus, threw their cloaks on the colt and put Jesus on it. 36 As he went along, people spread their cloaks on the road.
37 When he came near the place where the road goes down the Mount of Olives, the whole crowd of disciples began joyfully to praise God in loud voices for all the miracles they had seen:
38 "Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!"
"Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!"
39 Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to Jesus, "Teacher, rebuke your disciples!"
40 "I tell you," he replied, "if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out."
Observation
Nothing was going to hold back the praise as Jesus made His entry into Jerusalem even though His enemies the Pharisees wanted the praise to stop. Jesus let them know that if the crowd were silenced then the stones would burst out in praise! Jesus is returning soon and all creation will bow to Him. He is worthy of our praise. Don’t worry about someone that praises the Lord a little more than you or a little louder than you because if you do then there is a name for you… Pharisee!
Application
I will not keep quiet I will praise Him!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, today I praise you. My heart is filled with joy and I want you to know that I love you and you are worthy to be praised. You are the Creator God and I marvel at the wonders that your Hands have made!
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Genesis 47; Genesis 48; Psalm 10; Luke 19
Scripture
Luke 19:35-40
“They brought it to Jesus, threw their cloaks on the colt and put Jesus on it. 36 As he went along, people spread their cloaks on the road.
37 When he came near the place where the road goes down the Mount of Olives, the whole crowd of disciples began joyfully to praise God in loud voices for all the miracles they had seen:
38 "Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!"
"Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!"
39 Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to Jesus, "Teacher, rebuke your disciples!"
40 "I tell you," he replied, "if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out."
Observation
Nothing was going to hold back the praise as Jesus made His entry into Jerusalem even though His enemies the Pharisees wanted the praise to stop. Jesus let them know that if the crowd were silenced then the stones would burst out in praise! Jesus is returning soon and all creation will bow to Him. He is worthy of our praise. Don’t worry about someone that praises the Lord a little more than you or a little louder than you because if you do then there is a name for you… Pharisee!
Application
I will not keep quiet I will praise Him!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, today I praise you. My heart is filled with joy and I want you to know that I love you and you are worthy to be praised. You are the Creator God and I marvel at the wonders that your Hands have made!
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Thursday, January 18, 2007
What do you want me to do for you?
Genesis 44; Genesis 45; Genesis 46; Luke 18
Scripture
Luke 18:41 "What do you want me to do for you?"
"Lord, I want to see," he replied.
Observation
Isn’t it interesting that Jesus asked the blind man, “what do you want me to do for you?” Why didn’t Jesus just heal him because Jesus knew that the blind man wanted to be able to see? I think it is the same with God today with us, God knows what we need but He wants us to show our dependence on Him by asking Him for help. He wants us to ask Him because He is our Heavenly Father and He enjoys supplying our needs and fulfilling our desires.
Application
What are we asking our Heavenly Father to do for us today? Take time to talk to Him and watch Him answer your prayers.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for answering my prayers. Thank you for wanting to hear my prayers. You are so good to me. Give me Your eyes today to be able to see people and circumstances from your point of view and help me focus on your promises and not the problems around me.
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Genesis 44; Genesis 45; Genesis 46; Luke 18
Scripture
Luke 18:41 "What do you want me to do for you?"
"Lord, I want to see," he replied.
Observation
Isn’t it interesting that Jesus asked the blind man, “what do you want me to do for you?” Why didn’t Jesus just heal him because Jesus knew that the blind man wanted to be able to see? I think it is the same with God today with us, God knows what we need but He wants us to show our dependence on Him by asking Him for help. He wants us to ask Him because He is our Heavenly Father and He enjoys supplying our needs and fulfilling our desires.
Application
What are we asking our Heavenly Father to do for us today? Take time to talk to Him and watch Him answer your prayers.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for answering my prayers. Thank you for wanting to hear my prayers. You are so good to me. Give me Your eyes today to be able to see people and circumstances from your point of view and help me focus on your promises and not the problems around me.
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Wednesday, January 17, 2007
Do What?
Genesis 42; Genesis 43; Psalm 5; Luke 17
Scripture
Luke 17:3 So watch yourselves. "If your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him. 4 f he sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times comes back to you and says, 'I repent,' forgive him." 5 The apostles said to the Lord, "Increase our faith!"
Observation
Can you imagine having someone do something bad to you seven times in one day, but then coming back each time and asking for forgiveness? It would be even harder to imagine being able to forgive someone seven times in one day wouldn’t it? I think after the third or fourth time we would have become so angry that it would have been impossible to forgive the person. Jesus is making a point that forgiveness is only possible as we let Christ live through us. The disciples exclaimed after hearing what Jesus said, “Increase our faith!” We need to ask him to do the same thing in our lives. Relationships are impossible sometimes and it is only by the Lord’s strength that we are able to continue to love and continue to forgive.
Application
Who really is getting under your skin these days? Who really needs your forgiveness? Ask God to increase your faith to be able to love them without limit!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to forgive. Help me pray for those in my life that have become spiritual sandpaper for me. Make my heart soft and forgiving. Help me to be sensitive to the people around me today.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Genesis 42; Genesis 43; Psalm 5; Luke 17
Scripture
Luke 17:3 So watch yourselves. "If your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him. 4 f he sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times comes back to you and says, 'I repent,' forgive him." 5 The apostles said to the Lord, "Increase our faith!"
Observation
Can you imagine having someone do something bad to you seven times in one day, but then coming back each time and asking for forgiveness? It would be even harder to imagine being able to forgive someone seven times in one day wouldn’t it? I think after the third or fourth time we would have become so angry that it would have been impossible to forgive the person. Jesus is making a point that forgiveness is only possible as we let Christ live through us. The disciples exclaimed after hearing what Jesus said, “Increase our faith!” We need to ask him to do the same thing in our lives. Relationships are impossible sometimes and it is only by the Lord’s strength that we are able to continue to love and continue to forgive.
Application
Who really is getting under your skin these days? Who really needs your forgiveness? Ask God to increase your faith to be able to love them without limit!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to forgive. Help me pray for those in my life that have become spiritual sandpaper for me. Make my heart soft and forgiving. Help me to be sensitive to the people around me today.
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Tuesday, January 16, 2007
Warn them so that they will not also come to this place of torment!
Genesis 39; Genesis 40; Genesis 41; Luke 16
Scripture
Luke 16:27 "He answered, 'Then I beg you, father, send Lazarus to my father's house, 28 for I have five brothers. Let him warn them, so that they will not also come to this place of torment.'
Observation
Hell is real. Hell is hot. Hell is forever. The lost around us need to hear about the Good News that Jesus came to earth to die in their place so they could enter Heaven. It is impossible for God to allow sin into Heaven. Only Jesus can take away our sin so that we can enter Heaven. Have you asked Jesus to take away your sins?
Application
It is our business to intercede for people that do not yet know Jesus Christ as Savior. Who are you interceding for?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for working in the lives of the people around me. I pray for my children and my grandchildren today. I pray that all of them will know you and walk with you and serve you with all of their hearts.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Genesis 39; Genesis 40; Genesis 41; Luke 16
Scripture
Luke 16:27 "He answered, 'Then I beg you, father, send Lazarus to my father's house, 28 for I have five brothers. Let him warn them, so that they will not also come to this place of torment.'
Observation
Hell is real. Hell is hot. Hell is forever. The lost around us need to hear about the Good News that Jesus came to earth to die in their place so they could enter Heaven. It is impossible for God to allow sin into Heaven. Only Jesus can take away our sin so that we can enter Heaven. Have you asked Jesus to take away your sins?
Application
It is our business to intercede for people that do not yet know Jesus Christ as Savior. Who are you interceding for?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for working in the lives of the people around me. I pray for my children and my grandchildren today. I pray that all of them will know you and walk with you and serve you with all of their hearts.
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Monday, January 15, 2007
Lost Sheep, Lost Coin, Lost Son!
Genesis 37; Genesis 38; Psalm 7; Luke 15
Scripture
Luke 15
The Parable of the Lost Sheep
1 Now the tax collectors and "sinners" were all gathering around to hear him. 2 But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, "This man welcomes sinners and eats with them."
3 Then Jesus told them this parable: 4 "Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Does he not leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? 5 And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders 6 and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, 'Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.' 7 I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.
The Parable of the Lost Coin
8 "Or suppose a woman has ten silver coins and loses one. Does she not light a lamp, sweep the house and search carefully until she finds it? 9 And when she finds it, she calls her friends and neighbors together and says, 'Rejoice with me; I have found my lost coin.' 10 In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents."
The Parable of the Lost Son
11 Jesus continued: "There was a man who had two sons. 12 The younger one said to his father, 'Father, give me my share of the estate.' So he divided his property between them.
13 "Not long after that, the younger son got together all he had, set off for a distant country and there squandered his wealth in wild living. 14 After he had spent everything, there was a severe famine in that whole country, and he began to be in need. 15 So he went and hired himself out to a citizen of that country, who sent him to his fields to feed pigs. 16 He longed to fill his stomach with the pods that the pigs were eating, but no one gave him anything.
17 "When he came to his senses, he said, 'How many of my father's hired men have food to spare, and here I am starving to death! 18 I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. 19 I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired men.' 20 So he got up and went to his father.
"But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.
21 "The son said to him, 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.
22 "But the father said to his servants, 'Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. 23 Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let's have a feast and celebrate. 24 For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.' So they began to celebrate.
25 "Meanwhile, the older son was in the field. When he came near the house, he heard music and dancing. 26 So he called one of the servants and asked him what was going on. 27 'Your brother has come,' he replied, 'and your father has killed the fattened calf because he has him back safe and sound.'
28 "The older brother became angry and refused to go in. So his father went out and pleaded with him. 29 But he answered his father, 'Look! All these years I've been slaving for you and never disobeyed your orders. Yet you never gave me even a young goat so I could celebrate with my friends. 30 But when this son of yours who has squandered your property with prostitutes comes home, you kill the fattened calf for him!'
31 " 'My son,' the father said, 'you are always with me, and everything I have is yours. 32 But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.' "
Observation
One of the three things that these three parables have in common is that once the lost object is found there is a celebration! Jesus says that the angels in heaven celebrate over one sinner that repents! It must be a constant celebration in Heaven as person after person around the world is saved! The three objects, the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the lost son were all very precious and that is why it brought such joy when they were found. The people around us are precious in God’s sight and that is why He celebrates when they are found!
Application
We need to celebrate more when a lost person is “found” and put more of our time and energy into going after the lost sheep!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, give me more of a burden for the lost around me. Help me to see how as you see them. Bring people into our lives that are lost and need to be “found”.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Genesis 37; Genesis 38; Psalm 7; Luke 15
Scripture
Luke 15
The Parable of the Lost Sheep
1 Now the tax collectors and "sinners" were all gathering around to hear him. 2 But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, "This man welcomes sinners and eats with them."
3 Then Jesus told them this parable: 4 "Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Does he not leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? 5 And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders 6 and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, 'Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.' 7 I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.
The Parable of the Lost Coin
8 "Or suppose a woman has ten silver coins and loses one. Does she not light a lamp, sweep the house and search carefully until she finds it? 9 And when she finds it, she calls her friends and neighbors together and says, 'Rejoice with me; I have found my lost coin.' 10 In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents."
The Parable of the Lost Son
11 Jesus continued: "There was a man who had two sons. 12 The younger one said to his father, 'Father, give me my share of the estate.' So he divided his property between them.
13 "Not long after that, the younger son got together all he had, set off for a distant country and there squandered his wealth in wild living. 14 After he had spent everything, there was a severe famine in that whole country, and he began to be in need. 15 So he went and hired himself out to a citizen of that country, who sent him to his fields to feed pigs. 16 He longed to fill his stomach with the pods that the pigs were eating, but no one gave him anything.
17 "When he came to his senses, he said, 'How many of my father's hired men have food to spare, and here I am starving to death! 18 I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. 19 I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired men.' 20 So he got up and went to his father.
"But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.
21 "The son said to him, 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.
22 "But the father said to his servants, 'Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. 23 Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let's have a feast and celebrate. 24 For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.' So they began to celebrate.
25 "Meanwhile, the older son was in the field. When he came near the house, he heard music and dancing. 26 So he called one of the servants and asked him what was going on. 27 'Your brother has come,' he replied, 'and your father has killed the fattened calf because he has him back safe and sound.'
28 "The older brother became angry and refused to go in. So his father went out and pleaded with him. 29 But he answered his father, 'Look! All these years I've been slaving for you and never disobeyed your orders. Yet you never gave me even a young goat so I could celebrate with my friends. 30 But when this son of yours who has squandered your property with prostitutes comes home, you kill the fattened calf for him!'
31 " 'My son,' the father said, 'you are always with me, and everything I have is yours. 32 But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.' "
Observation
One of the three things that these three parables have in common is that once the lost object is found there is a celebration! Jesus says that the angels in heaven celebrate over one sinner that repents! It must be a constant celebration in Heaven as person after person around the world is saved! The three objects, the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the lost son were all very precious and that is why it brought such joy when they were found. The people around us are precious in God’s sight and that is why He celebrates when they are found!
Application
We need to celebrate more when a lost person is “found” and put more of our time and energy into going after the lost sheep!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, give me more of a burden for the lost around me. Help me to see how as you see them. Bring people into our lives that are lost and need to be “found”.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Saturday, January 13, 2007
Repent or Else!
Genesis 31; Genesis 32; Genesis 33; Luke 13
Scripture
Luke 13:5 “I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish."
Observation
Perishing requires no effort! But if we want to live forever in Heaven then we must turn from sin and self and turn to God…Repent! We don’t get lost by being bad or worse than someone else. Good people can be on their way to Hell too! We are lost until we put our faith and trust in Jesus Christ! He is a Savior and He wants to be your Savior and my Savior.
Application
Lost people need a Savior. They need to be introduced to the Good News of the Gospel so they have the opportunity to repent and find Christ!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me share my faith with others today. Help me be more concerned about the lost around me and less concerned about myself. Bring people into my life that need to be saved. Thank you for my salvation.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Genesis 31; Genesis 32; Genesis 33; Luke 13
Scripture
Luke 13:5 “I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish."
Observation
Perishing requires no effort! But if we want to live forever in Heaven then we must turn from sin and self and turn to God…Repent! We don’t get lost by being bad or worse than someone else. Good people can be on their way to Hell too! We are lost until we put our faith and trust in Jesus Christ! He is a Savior and He wants to be your Savior and my Savior.
Application
Lost people need a Savior. They need to be introduced to the Good News of the Gospel so they have the opportunity to repent and find Christ!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me share my faith with others today. Help me be more concerned about the lost around me and less concerned about myself. Bring people into my life that need to be saved. Thank you for my salvation.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Thursday, January 11, 2007
So Do You Want to Be Blessed?
Genesis 27; Genesis 28; Psalm 4; Luke 11
Scripture
Luke 11:28 He replied, "Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it."
Observation
Do you want God to bless you? Do you want to know how to get God’s Blessing? It is easy! It is wrapped up in one small word, “OBEY”.
Application
When I have been the most miserable in my Christian pilgrimage has been when I have decided to be disobedient. Obedience is the key to a blessed life. Obedience needs to start before we get out of the bed each morning. Before we put our feet on the floor each morning before we get out of bed we need to let our Heavenly Father know that it is our hearts desire to walk with Him in obedience. The prayer of our hearts should be, “Lord, I want to live for you today.”
Prayer
Heavenly Father, today I want to live for you. I want to please you with my obedience. I want your blessing on my life and I want that blessing to impact the people around me. You are Wonderful and worthy to be praised!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Genesis 27; Genesis 28; Psalm 4; Luke 11
Scripture
Luke 11:28 He replied, "Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it."
Observation
Do you want God to bless you? Do you want to know how to get God’s Blessing? It is easy! It is wrapped up in one small word, “OBEY”.
Application
When I have been the most miserable in my Christian pilgrimage has been when I have decided to be disobedient. Obedience is the key to a blessed life. Obedience needs to start before we get out of the bed each morning. Before we put our feet on the floor each morning before we get out of bed we need to let our Heavenly Father know that it is our hearts desire to walk with Him in obedience. The prayer of our hearts should be, “Lord, I want to live for you today.”
Prayer
Heavenly Father, today I want to live for you. I want to please you with my obedience. I want your blessing on my life and I want that blessing to impact the people around me. You are Wonderful and worthy to be praised!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
Who is My Neighbor?
Genesis 25; Genesis 26; Psalm 6; Luke 10
Scripture
The Parable of the Good Samaritan
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?"
26 "What is written in the Law?" he replied. "How do you read it?"
27 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'; and, 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'"
28 "You have answered correctly," Jesus replied. "Do this and you will live."
29 But he wanted to justify himself, so he asked Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?"
30 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. 31 A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. 32 So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. 33 But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. 34 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. 35 The next day he took out two silver coins 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.'
36 "Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?"
37 The expert in the law replied, "The one who had mercy on him."
Jesus told him, "Go and do likewise."
Observation
This man wanted to justify himself by asking Jesus who are my “Neighbors”. We think of neighbors as someone living close by, but Jesus put a different spin on the definition by using the story of the “Good Samaritan”. When we help someone that needs our help we are being a “Neighbor” to him or her. Look for the “neighbor” that God is going to bring into your life this week. Maybe it will be a complete stranger, but it may be a family member, or it may just be one of your neighbors that live close by. Touch someone’s life today!
Application
God will place a “neighbor” in our path. Will we take time to help them or will we pass them by.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me see people and touch them like the Good Samaritan did. Give me your heart today for the people around me. Soften my heart today Lord.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Genesis 25; Genesis 26; Psalm 6; Luke 10
Scripture
The Parable of the Good Samaritan
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?"
26 "What is written in the Law?" he replied. "How do you read it?"
27 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'; and, 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'"
28 "You have answered correctly," Jesus replied. "Do this and you will live."
29 But he wanted to justify himself, so he asked Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?"
30 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. 31 A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. 32 So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. 33 But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. 34 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. 35 The next day he took out two silver coins 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.'
36 "Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?"
37 The expert in the law replied, "The one who had mercy on him."
Jesus told him, "Go and do likewise."
Observation
This man wanted to justify himself by asking Jesus who are my “Neighbors”. We think of neighbors as someone living close by, but Jesus put a different spin on the definition by using the story of the “Good Samaritan”. When we help someone that needs our help we are being a “Neighbor” to him or her. Look for the “neighbor” that God is going to bring into your life this week. Maybe it will be a complete stranger, but it may be a family member, or it may just be one of your neighbors that live close by. Touch someone’s life today!
Application
God will place a “neighbor” in our path. Will we take time to help them or will we pass them by.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me see people and touch them like the Good Samaritan did. Give me your heart today for the people around me. Soften my heart today Lord.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Monday, January 08, 2007
Just Believe!
Genesis 20; Genesis 21; Genesis 22; Luke 8
Scripture
Luke 8:50 …"Don't be afraid; just believe
Observation
Luke 8:49 “While Jesus was still speaking, someone came from the house of Jairus, the synagogue ruler. "Your daughter is dead," he said. "Don't bother the teacher any more."
50Hearing this, Jesus said to Jairus, "Don't be afraid; just believe, and she will be healed."
The situation was impossible; Jairus had just been told that his daughter was dead. In our impossible situations we need to take the words Jesus to heart, “Don’t be afraid; just believe.” Fear is the opposite of faith. It is something that we all deal with everyday.
Application
When fear rises up in our hearts we need to go to the word of God and trust in all of God’s promises. Verses that you have memorized will help during times of fear and reading God’s Word will help those fears go away. The command of Jesus is “Don’t be afraid; just believe.”
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me trust in Your Word. Help me not to be afraid. Help me be the man of faith that I know you want me to be. Thank you for being my Rock, my Fortress, and my Deliverer.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Genesis 20; Genesis 21; Genesis 22; Luke 8
Scripture
Luke 8:50 …"Don't be afraid; just believe
Observation
Luke 8:49 “While Jesus was still speaking, someone came from the house of Jairus, the synagogue ruler. "Your daughter is dead," he said. "Don't bother the teacher any more."
50Hearing this, Jesus said to Jairus, "Don't be afraid; just believe, and she will be healed."
The situation was impossible; Jairus had just been told that his daughter was dead. In our impossible situations we need to take the words Jesus to heart, “Don’t be afraid; just believe.” Fear is the opposite of faith. It is something that we all deal with everyday.
Application
When fear rises up in our hearts we need to go to the word of God and trust in all of God’s promises. Verses that you have memorized will help during times of fear and reading God’s Word will help those fears go away. The command of Jesus is “Don’t be afraid; just believe.”
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me trust in Your Word. Help me not to be afraid. Help me be the man of faith that I know you want me to be. Thank you for being my Rock, my Fortress, and my Deliverer.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Sunday, January 07, 2007
Faith So Amazing!
Genesis 18; Genesis 19; Psalm 3; Luke 7
Scripture
The Faith of the Centurion
Luke 7:1-10 "When Jesus had finished saying all this in the hearing of the people, he entered Capernaum. 2 There a centurion's servant, whom his master valued highly, was sick and about to die. 3 The centurion heard of Jesus and sent some elders of the Jews to him, asking him to come and heal his servant. 4 When they came to Jesus, they pleaded earnestly with him, "This man deserves to have you do this, 5 because he loves our nation and has built our synagogue." 6 So Jesus went with them.
He was not far from the house when the centurion sent friends to say to him: "Lord, don't trouble yourself, for I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. 7 That is why I did not even consider myself worthy to come to you. But say the word, and my servant will be healed. 8 For I myself am a man under authority, with soldiers under me. I tell this one, 'Go,' and he goes; and that one, 'Come,' and he comes. I say to my servant, 'Do this,' and he does it."
9 When Jesus heard this, he was amazed at him, and turning to the crowd following him, he said, "I tell you, I have not found such great faith even in Israel." 10 Then the men who had been sent returned to the house and found the servant well."
Luke 7:50 Jesus said to the woman, "Your faith has saved you; go in peace."
Observation
Amazing!
Can you imagine having so much faith that it amazes God Himself? Every time I read about the Centurion’s faith I am challenged to have that same kind of faith! To think that it is possible to amaze God by our trust in His Him, that truly is amazing! Later in the same chapter we have a sinful woman that washes Jesus feet with her hair and her tears and Jesus acknowledges that her faith has saved her! It was not the good work that she did to Jesus, it was her faith and trust in Him that saved her.
Application
Today, there are plenty of areas in my life and ministry for me to exercise the Centurion’s kind of faith. How about you?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to have the kind of faith that amazes you. Nothing is too hard for you! I know that you are constantly at work in the lives around me and as I pray for people you hear my prayers and you are answering my request on their behalf. Help me to ask BIG!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Genesis 18; Genesis 19; Psalm 3; Luke 7
Scripture
The Faith of the Centurion
Luke 7:1-10 "When Jesus had finished saying all this in the hearing of the people, he entered Capernaum. 2 There a centurion's servant, whom his master valued highly, was sick and about to die. 3 The centurion heard of Jesus and sent some elders of the Jews to him, asking him to come and heal his servant. 4 When they came to Jesus, they pleaded earnestly with him, "This man deserves to have you do this, 5 because he loves our nation and has built our synagogue." 6 So Jesus went with them.
He was not far from the house when the centurion sent friends to say to him: "Lord, don't trouble yourself, for I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. 7 That is why I did not even consider myself worthy to come to you. But say the word, and my servant will be healed. 8 For I myself am a man under authority, with soldiers under me. I tell this one, 'Go,' and he goes; and that one, 'Come,' and he comes. I say to my servant, 'Do this,' and he does it."
9 When Jesus heard this, he was amazed at him, and turning to the crowd following him, he said, "I tell you, I have not found such great faith even in Israel." 10 Then the men who had been sent returned to the house and found the servant well."
Luke 7:50 Jesus said to the woman, "Your faith has saved you; go in peace."
Observation
Amazing!
Can you imagine having so much faith that it amazes God Himself? Every time I read about the Centurion’s faith I am challenged to have that same kind of faith! To think that it is possible to amaze God by our trust in His Him, that truly is amazing! Later in the same chapter we have a sinful woman that washes Jesus feet with her hair and her tears and Jesus acknowledges that her faith has saved her! It was not the good work that she did to Jesus, it was her faith and trust in Him that saved her.
Application
Today, there are plenty of areas in my life and ministry for me to exercise the Centurion’s kind of faith. How about you?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to have the kind of faith that amazes you. Nothing is too hard for you! I know that you are constantly at work in the lives around me and as I pray for people you hear my prayers and you are answering my request on their behalf. Help me to ask BIG!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Saturday, January 06, 2007
Bless & Pray for Your Enemies?
Genesis 15; Genesis 16; Genesis 17; Luke 6
Scripture
Luke 6:27 "But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, 28 bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. 29 If someone strikes you on one cheek, turn to him the other also. If someone takes your cloak, do not stop him from taking your tunic. 30 Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back. 31 Do to others, as you would have them do to you.
Observation
Luke 6 is not the American way. The American way of treating your enemies is to retaliate and get even. Jesus says to do just the opposite. What He is asking us to do is impossible unless we turn our enemies over to Him. Everyone has enemies, sometimes they are family members, coworkers, neighbors, fellow church members, but everyone has enemies. People that do you harm are enemies.
Application
I will pray for my enemies and ask God to bless them.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for Luke 6 and now I just ask You for the strength to be able to do what you are asking me to do. Help me to pray for those that oppose me, those that have said unfair things about me, and those that would love to see me fail. Help me to love them, pray for them, and Heavenly Father please bless them.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Genesis 15; Genesis 16; Genesis 17; Luke 6
Scripture
Luke 6:27 "But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, 28 bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. 29 If someone strikes you on one cheek, turn to him the other also. If someone takes your cloak, do not stop him from taking your tunic. 30 Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back. 31 Do to others, as you would have them do to you.
Observation
Luke 6 is not the American way. The American way of treating your enemies is to retaliate and get even. Jesus says to do just the opposite. What He is asking us to do is impossible unless we turn our enemies over to Him. Everyone has enemies, sometimes they are family members, coworkers, neighbors, fellow church members, but everyone has enemies. People that do you harm are enemies.
Application
I will pray for my enemies and ask God to bless them.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for Luke 6 and now I just ask You for the strength to be able to do what you are asking me to do. Help me to pray for those that oppose me, those that have said unfair things about me, and those that would love to see me fail. Help me to love them, pray for them, and Heavenly Father please bless them.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Friday, January 05, 2007
B…B… Y… S… S…
But Because You Say So!
Genesis 12; Genesis 13; Genesis 14; Luke 5
Scripture
Luke 5: 1-11
1 One day as Jesus was standing by the Lake of Gennesaret, with the people crowding around him and listening to the word of God, 2 he saw at the water's edge two boats, left there by the fishermen, who were washing their nets. 3 He got into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, and asked him to put out a little from shore. Then he sat down and taught the people from the boat.
4 When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, "Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch."
5 Simon answered, "Master, we've worked hard all night and haven't caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets."
6 When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break. 7 So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them, and they came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink.
8 When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at Jesus' knees and said, "Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!" 9 For he and all his companions were astonished at the catch of fish they had taken, 10 and so were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, Simon's partners.
Then Jesus said to Simon, "Don't be afraid; from now on you will catch men." 11 So they pulled their boats up on shore, left everything and followed him.
Observation
Jesus the Carpenter was telling Peter, James, and John how to fish! After fishing all night, (when you fished with nets you almost always fished at night) Jesus told the disciples to go and put their nets down again. Peter response was one of obedience, “but because you say so, I will let down the nets”. Peter, even though he knew that you didn’t catch fish in the daytime, obeyed His Lord. And God blessed Peter’s obedience! Jesus is always asking us to do the impossible because He wants to show us that with Him nothing is impossible!
Application
I am looking at some things that God has asked me to do and they look impossible! I am saying to the Lord this morning just what Peter said, B…B…Y…S…S… “But because You say so I will do it”!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me today to remember this lesson from the life of Peter! Help me to be obedient so that you can make me a “Fisher of Men”. Father, there are some things that look completely impossible from my perspective, but from where You are looking they must look completely “doable”. Thank you for helping me with these impossible situations today!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
But Because You Say So!
Genesis 12; Genesis 13; Genesis 14; Luke 5
Scripture
Luke 5: 1-11
1 One day as Jesus was standing by the Lake of Gennesaret, with the people crowding around him and listening to the word of God, 2 he saw at the water's edge two boats, left there by the fishermen, who were washing their nets. 3 He got into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, and asked him to put out a little from shore. Then he sat down and taught the people from the boat.
4 When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, "Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch."
5 Simon answered, "Master, we've worked hard all night and haven't caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets."
6 When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break. 7 So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them, and they came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink.
8 When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at Jesus' knees and said, "Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!" 9 For he and all his companions were astonished at the catch of fish they had taken, 10 and so were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, Simon's partners.
Then Jesus said to Simon, "Don't be afraid; from now on you will catch men." 11 So they pulled their boats up on shore, left everything and followed him.
Observation
Jesus the Carpenter was telling Peter, James, and John how to fish! After fishing all night, (when you fished with nets you almost always fished at night) Jesus told the disciples to go and put their nets down again. Peter response was one of obedience, “but because you say so, I will let down the nets”. Peter, even though he knew that you didn’t catch fish in the daytime, obeyed His Lord. And God blessed Peter’s obedience! Jesus is always asking us to do the impossible because He wants to show us that with Him nothing is impossible!
Application
I am looking at some things that God has asked me to do and they look impossible! I am saying to the Lord this morning just what Peter said, B…B…Y…S…S… “But because You say so I will do it”!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me today to remember this lesson from the life of Peter! Help me to be obedient so that you can make me a “Fisher of Men”. Father, there are some things that look completely impossible from my perspective, but from where You are looking they must look completely “doable”. Thank you for helping me with these impossible situations today!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Wednesday, January 03, 2007
Desperately Wicked!
Genesis 6; Genesis 7; Genesis 8; Luke 3
Scripture
Genesis 8:20 “Then Noah built an altar to the LORD and, taking some of all the clean animals and clean birds, he sacrificed burnt offerings on it. 21 The LORD smelled the pleasing aroma and said in his heart: "Never again will I curse the ground because of man, even though every inclination of his heart is evil from childhood. And never again will I destroy all living creatures, as I have done.”
Observation
Jeremiah 17:9 "The heart is deceitful above all things, And desperately wicked; Who can know it?
It is always good to remember that the inclination of our hearts is evil! You and I are capable of some very terrible things and if we don’t let the Lord rule in our lives then we will live out those evil inclinations! Noah walked with God and He found favor with God. He was different than all the other men in the world at that time.
Application
Since my heart is desperately wicked and deceitful above all things I need to make sure that I am keeping my heart clean and my sins confessed everyday!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, guard my heart. Help me not to yield to the temptations that come into my life. Give me strength to hear and obey your voice today! Help our people to stay close to you and give them the strength that they need to walk in victory today!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Genesis 6; Genesis 7; Genesis 8; Luke 3
Scripture
Genesis 8:20 “Then Noah built an altar to the LORD and, taking some of all the clean animals and clean birds, he sacrificed burnt offerings on it. 21 The LORD smelled the pleasing aroma and said in his heart: "Never again will I curse the ground because of man, even though every inclination of his heart is evil from childhood. And never again will I destroy all living creatures, as I have done.”
Observation
Jeremiah 17:9 "The heart is deceitful above all things, And desperately wicked; Who can know it?
It is always good to remember that the inclination of our hearts is evil! You and I are capable of some very terrible things and if we don’t let the Lord rule in our lives then we will live out those evil inclinations! Noah walked with God and He found favor with God. He was different than all the other men in the world at that time.
Application
Since my heart is desperately wicked and deceitful above all things I need to make sure that I am keeping my heart clean and my sins confessed everyday!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, guard my heart. Help me not to yield to the temptations that come into my life. Give me strength to hear and obey your voice today! Help our people to stay close to you and give them the strength that they need to walk in victory today!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
Do You Feel Old as Dirt?
Genesis 3; Genesis 4; Genesis 5; Luke 2
Scripture
Luke 2:32 “After Noah was 500 years old, he became the father of Shem, Ham and Japheth”
Observation
Genesis chapter 5 has folks living to be 969 years old, at least Methuselah lived that long! Wow! But Noah was 500 years old when he had his three sons, Shem, Ham and Japheth! God does work miracles! I would not want to start a family at that age, how about you?
Application
Time is short. We don’t live to be 500 years old these days. None of us knows when our time on earth will be over, it could be today! Let’s make the most of 2007 and help some folks find Jesus!
Prayer
Father, I feel sometimes that I am old as Methuselah, but I’m not. Help me to use my time wisely. Bring people into my life that I can share help know You. Thank you for allowing me to live today in this generation and not during the time of Noah, Enoch, or Methuselah!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Genesis 3; Genesis 4; Genesis 5; Luke 2
Scripture
Luke 2:32 “After Noah was 500 years old, he became the father of Shem, Ham and Japheth”
Observation
Genesis chapter 5 has folks living to be 969 years old, at least Methuselah lived that long! Wow! But Noah was 500 years old when he had his three sons, Shem, Ham and Japheth! God does work miracles! I would not want to start a family at that age, how about you?
Application
Time is short. We don’t live to be 500 years old these days. None of us knows when our time on earth will be over, it could be today! Let’s make the most of 2007 and help some folks find Jesus!
Prayer
Father, I feel sometimes that I am old as Methuselah, but I’m not. Help me to use my time wisely. Bring people into my life that I can share help know You. Thank you for allowing me to live today in this generation and not during the time of Noah, Enoch, or Methuselah!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Monday, January 01, 2007
Great Promise for 2007!
Genesis 1; Genesis 2; Luke 1
Scripture
Luke 1:37 “For nothing is impossible with God."
Observation
Since we are so limited in what we can do in our own strength it is hard to imagine that we have a Heavenly Father that has no limitations. Nothing is too hard for Him! He is the one that created this world from nothing. If we create something it always has to be from something, but we have help from the One that can create something out of nothing!
Application
What has God laid on your heart to accomplish this year? I hope that it is so big that it is “impossible” without His help!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, place on my heart things that are so big that they can only be accomplished by and through You! I pray that our church will be able to accomplish some “impossible” things this year because of our faith in You!
One of the things that I have enjoyed this past year is to listen to the passages being read while I read along. Just click "listen to the passage". This is not available in all translations, but it is excellent in the NIV translation! Try it...it is habit forming!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Genesis 1; Genesis 2; Luke 1
Scripture
Luke 1:37 “For nothing is impossible with God."
Observation
Since we are so limited in what we can do in our own strength it is hard to imagine that we have a Heavenly Father that has no limitations. Nothing is too hard for Him! He is the one that created this world from nothing. If we create something it always has to be from something, but we have help from the One that can create something out of nothing!
Application
What has God laid on your heart to accomplish this year? I hope that it is so big that it is “impossible” without His help!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, place on my heart things that are so big that they can only be accomplished by and through You! I pray that our church will be able to accomplish some “impossible” things this year because of our faith in You!
One of the things that I have enjoyed this past year is to listen to the passages being read while I read along. Just click "listen to the passage". This is not available in all translations, but it is excellent in the NIV translation! Try it...it is habit forming!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Friday, December 29, 2006
Time is Short! Hell is Hot!
Revelation 10; Revelation 11; Revelation 12; Revelation 13; Revelation 14
Scripture
Revelation 14:6-7
“Then I saw another angel flying in midair, and he had the eternal gospel to proclaim to those who live on the earth—to every nation, tribe, language and people. 7He said in a loud voice, "Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of his judgment has come. Worship him who made the heavens, the earth, the sea and the springs of water."
Observation
Fear God and give Him Glory! Time is short! How much time do we have on this earth? Soon the year 2007 will be here and none of know if we will see the year 2008! Now is the time to Fear Him and bring Him Glory! Now is the time!
Application
Beginning a New Year is a great time to start learning some new good habits and getting rid of some bad ones! It is a great time to repent and live differently! Repent means turning from sin and self and turning to God! It means turning our lives around and living for God. Time is short! The hour of judgment is coming!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to help others turn back to you! Help me to share the Good News with the folks around me! Help me live for you in 2007!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Revelation 10; Revelation 11; Revelation 12; Revelation 13; Revelation 14
Scripture
Revelation 14:6-7
“Then I saw another angel flying in midair, and he had the eternal gospel to proclaim to those who live on the earth—to every nation, tribe, language and people. 7He said in a loud voice, "Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of his judgment has come. Worship him who made the heavens, the earth, the sea and the springs of water."
Observation
Fear God and give Him Glory! Time is short! How much time do we have on this earth? Soon the year 2007 will be here and none of know if we will see the year 2008! Now is the time to Fear Him and bring Him Glory! Now is the time!
Application
Beginning a New Year is a great time to start learning some new good habits and getting rid of some bad ones! It is a great time to repent and live differently! Repent means turning from sin and self and turning to God! It means turning our lives around and living for God. Time is short! The hour of judgment is coming!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to help others turn back to you! Help me to share the Good News with the folks around me! Help me live for you in 2007!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Thursday, December 28, 2006
Prayers of His Saints are Precious!
Revelation 5; Revelation 6; Revelation 7; Revelation 8; Revelation 9
Scripture
Rev. 5
8 "And when he had taken it, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb. Each one had a harp and they were holding golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. 9And they sang a new song:
"You are worthy to take the scroll
and to open its seals,
because you were slain,
and with your blood you purchased men for God
from every tribe and language and people and nation.
10You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to serve our God,
and they will reign on the earth."
11Then 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. 12In 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!"
Observation
To think that God is saving my prayers as sweet smelling incense!
Application
Yes, my prayers are being heard and even saved in Heaven!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, may my prayers be according to your Will! Help me not to be so selfish and help me pray prayers more for other people than myself!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Revelation 5; Revelation 6; Revelation 7; Revelation 8; Revelation 9
Scripture
Rev. 5
8 "And when he had taken it, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb. Each one had a harp and they were holding golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. 9And they sang a new song:
"You are worthy to take the scroll
and to open its seals,
because you were slain,
and with your blood you purchased men for God
from every tribe and language and people and nation.
10You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to serve our God,
and they will reign on the earth."
11Then 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. 12In 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!"
Observation
To think that God is saving my prayers as sweet smelling incense!
Application
Yes, my prayers are being heard and even saved in Heaven!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, may my prayers be according to your Will! Help me not to be so selfish and help me pray prayers more for other people than myself!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
You Are Worthy!
Revelation 1; Revelation 2; Revelation 3; Revelation 4
Scripture
Revelation 4:11 "You are worthy, our Lord and God,
to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things,
and by your will they were created and have their being."
Observation
He is worthy to receive glory, and honor and power! He is the Creator God that made us and has made everything else.
Application
The book of Revelation gives us a glimpse of what it is going to be like in Heaven. I don’t know everything we will do in Heaven but one thing I know for sure is that we will surround His throne and worship Him. All of heaven will bow down and worship Him. We get to practice while we are here on earth. I need to constantly give Him glory and praise!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, you are worthy of honor and praise. I love you and recognize that no one compares with you. Help me to keep you as my first love.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Revelation 1; Revelation 2; Revelation 3; Revelation 4
Scripture
Revelation 4:11 "You are worthy, our Lord and God,
to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things,
and by your will they were created and have their being."
Observation
He is worthy to receive glory, and honor and power! He is the Creator God that made us and has made everything else.
Application
The book of Revelation gives us a glimpse of what it is going to be like in Heaven. I don’t know everything we will do in Heaven but one thing I know for sure is that we will surround His throne and worship Him. All of heaven will bow down and worship Him. We get to practice while we are here on earth. I need to constantly give Him glory and praise!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, you are worthy of honor and praise. I love you and recognize that no one compares with you. Help me to keep you as my first love.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Tuesday, December 26, 2006
You are My Hiding Place!
Psalm 117; Psalm 119:81-176; 2 John 1; 3 John 1
Scripture
Psalm 119:114 "You are my hiding place and my shield.
My hope is based on your word."
Observation
In the Psalms, we find word pictures describing how God protects us. In Psalm 119:14, we find that God is our hiding place and our shield. Is God your hiding place? Have you learned to go to Him for protection and for security? This world is out of control and we desperately need a hiding place.
Application
May I take time to retreat daily to my hiding place. Your Word is full of promises of your protection. I plan to search His Word everyday for strength and guidance.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for being my hiding place. Thank you for providing me a safe place that I can always retreat to during life’s storms. You are my Rock, my Shield, my Fortress, and a very secure hiding place.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Psalm 117; Psalm 119:81-176; 2 John 1; 3 John 1
Scripture
Psalm 119:114 "You are my hiding place and my shield.
My hope is based on your word."
Observation
In the Psalms, we find word pictures describing how God protects us. In Psalm 119:14, we find that God is our hiding place and our shield. Is God your hiding place? Have you learned to go to Him for protection and for security? This world is out of control and we desperately need a hiding place.
Application
May I take time to retreat daily to my hiding place. Your Word is full of promises of your protection. I plan to search His Word everyday for strength and guidance.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for being my hiding place. Thank you for providing me a safe place that I can always retreat to during life’s storms. You are my Rock, my Shield, my Fortress, and a very secure hiding place.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Friday, December 22, 2006
The Light of Christmas!
John 12; John 13; John 14
Scripture
John 12:46 “I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness.”
Observation
The world today is so full of darkness! It desperately needs the light of Jesus! I love Matthew 5:16 that says, “let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify the Father which is in Heaven.” It is my life verse! Christ-followers are the light in this dark world!
Application
One way that the world can see the light in our lives is by their witnessing our love for one another!
Prayer
Father, thank you for the Light of Christmas! Thank you for sending your Son as a gift for me and for the entire world. I pray that this Christmas lives will be changed forever because of the witness of our church family. Help me to be a light to those around me this Christmas.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
John 12; John 13; John 14
Scripture
John 12:46 “I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness.”
Observation
The world today is so full of darkness! It desperately needs the light of Jesus! I love Matthew 5:16 that says, “let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify the Father which is in Heaven.” It is my life verse! Christ-followers are the light in this dark world!
Application
One way that the world can see the light in our lives is by their witnessing our love for one another!
Prayer
Father, thank you for the Light of Christmas! Thank you for sending your Son as a gift for me and for the entire world. I pray that this Christmas lives will be changed forever because of the witness of our church family. Help me to be a light to those around me this Christmas.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Thursday, December 21, 2006
Is God’s Hand Big Enough?
John 9; John 10; John 11
Scripture
John 10:28-30 “I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand. 29 My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father's hand. 30 I and the Father are one."
Observation
I know someone that believes that a person can lose their salvation. It is amazing that these verses don’t help them change their belief. I believe that if I am safe in my Heavenly Father’s Hand and since Jesus says that no one can snatch me out then in His Hand is a very secure place to be. I have had someone say that “yes, no one can snatch you out but you can get out of His hand on your own!” God saves us and God keeps us. We should be depending completely on Him for our security. When Jesus says, “and they shall never perish” I believe Him completely. How about you?
Application
Christmas is all about His Gift to us. Eternal Life is something that we can’t earn and once we have it we can’t lose it no matter what we do or don’t do!
Prayer
Father, help me explain better to our people that it is all by your grace that we are saved and not our works. Help those that are confused, and correct those that are causing the confusion by their dogmatic teaching that “works” are a means of gaining salvation or that “works” are necessary to keep one’s salvation.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
John 9; John 10; John 11
Scripture
John 10:28-30 “I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand. 29 My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father's hand. 30 I and the Father are one."
Observation
I know someone that believes that a person can lose their salvation. It is amazing that these verses don’t help them change their belief. I believe that if I am safe in my Heavenly Father’s Hand and since Jesus says that no one can snatch me out then in His Hand is a very secure place to be. I have had someone say that “yes, no one can snatch you out but you can get out of His hand on your own!” God saves us and God keeps us. We should be depending completely on Him for our security. When Jesus says, “and they shall never perish” I believe Him completely. How about you?
Application
Christmas is all about His Gift to us. Eternal Life is something that we can’t earn and once we have it we can’t lose it no matter what we do or don’t do!
Prayer
Father, help me explain better to our people that it is all by your grace that we are saved and not our works. Help those that are confused, and correct those that are causing the confusion by their dogmatic teaching that “works” are a means of gaining salvation or that “works” are necessary to keep one’s salvation.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Monday, December 18, 2006
Christmas was God’s Idea!
John 2; John 3; John 4
Scripture
John 3:16-18 "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. 18 Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son.
Observation
Christmas is what John 3:16 is all about! God’s Great Love for us opened up Heaven and God sent His one and His only Son to be born, live, and die so that we might live forever with Him!
Application
Many don’t know how to celebrate “Christmas” yet because they have not met the Christ of Christmas! I need to look for people to share with during this Christmas Season!
Prayer
Thank you for loving me so much that You sent your Son to die for me and to die for those around me. Help me share that Good News this week!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
John 2; John 3; John 4
Scripture
John 3:16-18 "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. 18 Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son.
Observation
Christmas is what John 3:16 is all about! God’s Great Love for us opened up Heaven and God sent His one and His only Son to be born, live, and die so that we might live forever with Him!
Application
Many don’t know how to celebrate “Christmas” yet because they have not met the Christ of Christmas! I need to look for people to share with during this Christmas Season!
Prayer
Thank you for loving me so much that You sent your Son to die for me and to die for those around me. Help me share that Good News this week!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Thursday, December 14, 2006
Salvation Lost…Never!
Hebrews 12; Hebrews 13; Jude 1
Scripture
Jude 1:24-25
“To him who is able to keep you from falling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy— 25to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen.”
Observation
God saves those who put their faith and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ and then Jesus Christ keeps us and presents us to our Heavenly Father without fault! God looks at a Christ-Follower and He only sees the Righteousness of His Son Jesus. We are righteous because Christ has exchanged His sinless life for our sinful lives. We are not and we will never be worthy of what God has given us…Salvation. We can’t work to get it, we can’t work to keep it, and once we have it we can’t lose it! End of story! It is all undeserved! It is all God!
Application
Don’t let anyone try to make you believe that “works” are necessary for salvation or that “works” are necessary to keep your salvation! A believer in the Lord Jesus Christ is capable of committing any sin. There is no sin that a Christian commits that could cause him or her to lose their salvation. Our salvation is not based on what sin or sins we did or did not commit, our salvation is based on what Christ did for us on the cross! Period!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help those that can’t understand this truth to get it. Show them your truth and keep them from harming other believers with their teaching. Thank you for saving me and providing forgiveness for my sins, past…present…and future!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Hebrews 12; Hebrews 13; Jude 1
Scripture
Jude 1:24-25
“To him who is able to keep you from falling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy— 25to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen.”
Observation
God saves those who put their faith and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ and then Jesus Christ keeps us and presents us to our Heavenly Father without fault! God looks at a Christ-Follower and He only sees the Righteousness of His Son Jesus. We are righteous because Christ has exchanged His sinless life for our sinful lives. We are not and we will never be worthy of what God has given us…Salvation. We can’t work to get it, we can’t work to keep it, and once we have it we can’t lose it! End of story! It is all undeserved! It is all God!
Application
Don’t let anyone try to make you believe that “works” are necessary for salvation or that “works” are necessary to keep your salvation! A believer in the Lord Jesus Christ is capable of committing any sin. There is no sin that a Christian commits that could cause him or her to lose their salvation. Our salvation is not based on what sin or sins we did or did not commit, our salvation is based on what Christ did for us on the cross! Period!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help those that can’t understand this truth to get it. Show them your truth and keep them from harming other believers with their teaching. Thank you for saving me and providing forgiveness for my sins, past…present…and future!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
We do have a High Priest!
Hebrews 5; Hebrews 6; Hebrews 7; Hebrews 8
Scripture
Hebrews 7:24-25 “but because Jesus lives forever, he has a permanent priesthood. 25 Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.”
Observation
When we read the Bible we sometimes come across passages that are difficult to understand. Hebrews 6 is one of those difficult passages. If you read Hebrews 6 and no other scripture you could believe that it would be possible to lose your salvation. In fact, just by reading Hebrews 6 you would think that once you lost it you could never be saved again. So how are we to understand that passage? I would suggest that you keep on reading to Hebrews 7:24-25 which says,
“but because Jesus lives forever, he has a permanent priesthood. 25 Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.”
Jesus is our high priest. He sacrificed His life for you and me and now He lives to constantly intercede for us on our behalf. And because Jesus is God He is able to save us completely!
Application
The Bible is to be understood by reading all of it and not taking a verse out of context to teach that we can lose our salvation.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you that you are always interceding for me and thank you for saving me completely. You are my high priest!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Hebrews 5; Hebrews 6; Hebrews 7; Hebrews 8
Scripture
Hebrews 7:24-25 “but because Jesus lives forever, he has a permanent priesthood. 25 Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.”
Observation
When we read the Bible we sometimes come across passages that are difficult to understand. Hebrews 6 is one of those difficult passages. If you read Hebrews 6 and no other scripture you could believe that it would be possible to lose your salvation. In fact, just by reading Hebrews 6 you would think that once you lost it you could never be saved again. So how are we to understand that passage? I would suggest that you keep on reading to Hebrews 7:24-25 which says,
“but because Jesus lives forever, he has a permanent priesthood. 25 Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.”
Jesus is our high priest. He sacrificed His life for you and me and now He lives to constantly intercede for us on our behalf. And because Jesus is God He is able to save us completely!
Application
The Bible is to be understood by reading all of it and not taking a verse out of context to teach that we can lose our salvation.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you that you are always interceding for me and thank you for saving me completely. You are my high priest!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Monday, December 11, 2006
Sharp, Penetrating, Powerful!
Philemon 1; Hebrews 1; Hebrews 2; Hebrews 3; Hebrews 4
Scripture
Hebrews 4:12-13
“For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. 13 Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.”
Observation
The Word of God is sharper than any two edge sword and that means that it is very sharp! It can penetrate the hardest heart and it can bring life to the spiritually dead. It shows us just what we are and it has the Power to change us! It is living and Powerful!
Application
God’s Word is what changes lives. We need to get people into His Word!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me help others to get into your Word. Thank you for what it does in my life. Thank you for its Power. Thank You that it is Living and new every morning!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Philemon 1; Hebrews 1; Hebrews 2; Hebrews 3; Hebrews 4
Scripture
Hebrews 4:12-13
“For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. 13 Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.”
Observation
The Word of God is sharper than any two edge sword and that means that it is very sharp! It can penetrate the hardest heart and it can bring life to the spiritually dead. It shows us just what we are and it has the Power to change us! It is living and Powerful!
Application
God’s Word is what changes lives. We need to get people into His Word!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me help others to get into your Word. Thank you for what it does in my life. Thank you for its Power. Thank You that it is Living and new every morning!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Friday, December 08, 2006
First of All, Pray for Everyone!
1 Timothy 1; 1 Timothy 2; 1 Timothy 3; 1 Timothy 4
Scripture
1 Timothy 2:1-2
“I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone— 2for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.”
Observation
Paul is encouraging Timothy to pray for everyone and especially pray for those in authority. Our president needs our prayers today more than ever!
Application
I will pray for President Bush and for those in leadership of our country. Paul was saying to pray for them so that we may experience peace. It is not a bad prayer for us to pray today also!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I pray for President Bush that you give him all the wisdom he needs to lead our country. Be with his family and give them strength. Help him to make good decisions based on Your Word and Your guidance!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
1 Timothy 1; 1 Timothy 2; 1 Timothy 3; 1 Timothy 4
Scripture
1 Timothy 2:1-2
“I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone— 2for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.”
Observation
Paul is encouraging Timothy to pray for everyone and especially pray for those in authority. Our president needs our prayers today more than ever!
Application
I will pray for President Bush and for those in leadership of our country. Paul was saying to pray for them so that we may experience peace. It is not a bad prayer for us to pray today also!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I pray for President Bush that you give him all the wisdom he needs to lead our country. Be with his family and give them strength. Help him to make good decisions based on Your Word and Your guidance!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
ALL MY NEEDS!
Philippians 1; Philippians 2; Philippians 3; Philippians 4
Scripture
Philippians 4:19 “And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.”
Observation
Christmas is not about having our needs met! For most of us at Christmas we talk to our loved ones about what each of us want not need! Even though Christmas should be focused on Jesus it gravitates to gift giving to each other. I am not knocking that because I love the gift giving at Christmas! There is no greater joy than watching a child at Christmas open gifts that you have bought for him or her.
The “Christ” of Christmas promises to supply all of our needs and He is very rich! He is ready and willing to meet ALL of our needs if we will just put Him first in our lives!
When we are consumed with desiring “things” it is hard to see the needs that Jesus is meeting in our lives. It is interesting how a certain “want of a particular thing” can dominate our thoughts. When you catch that happening then you can be sure that you are not putting into practice Matthew 6:33 which says, “But seek ye first the kingdom of God…”!
Application
What “need” do you have that Christ has not met? Why not talk to Him about it right now!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I am so blessed. You provide me with so many good things. You take care of my every need. Thank you for your Goodness. Thank you for providing me with so many good things. I pray today for Kathy’s Mom and sister Donna. You are the Healer and we put our faith in you!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Philippians 1; Philippians 2; Philippians 3; Philippians 4
Scripture
Philippians 4:19 “And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.”
Observation
Christmas is not about having our needs met! For most of us at Christmas we talk to our loved ones about what each of us want not need! Even though Christmas should be focused on Jesus it gravitates to gift giving to each other. I am not knocking that because I love the gift giving at Christmas! There is no greater joy than watching a child at Christmas open gifts that you have bought for him or her.
The “Christ” of Christmas promises to supply all of our needs and He is very rich! He is ready and willing to meet ALL of our needs if we will just put Him first in our lives!
When we are consumed with desiring “things” it is hard to see the needs that Jesus is meeting in our lives. It is interesting how a certain “want of a particular thing” can dominate our thoughts. When you catch that happening then you can be sure that you are not putting into practice Matthew 6:33 which says, “But seek ye first the kingdom of God…”!
Application
What “need” do you have that Christ has not met? Why not talk to Him about it right now!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I am so blessed. You provide me with so many good things. You take care of my every need. Thank you for your Goodness. Thank you for providing me with so many good things. I pray today for Kathy’s Mom and sister Donna. You are the Healer and we put our faith in you!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
In “ALL” Circumstances
1 Thessalonians 4; 1 Thessalonians 5; 2 Thessalonians 1; 2 Thessalonians 2; 2 Thessalonians 3
Scripture
1 Thessalonians 5:18
“give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.”
Observation
I think we need to understand what this verse says and what it doesn’t say. Paul says that we need to give thanks in all circumstances, but he doesn’t say give thanks for all circumstances. We don’t thank the Lord for a tragedy, but we should be thankful to the Lord while we go through the tragedy. We don’t thank God for a terrible automobile accident where several of our family members were injured badly, but we are thankful to God that He will help us endure the crisis and see us through it.
Application
I need to look around today and be thankful for what God is doing in my “circumstances” right now!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to have a thankful heart. Thank you for being with us no matter what we go through. We never go through any circumstance alone; you are always with us, guiding and strengthening us.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
1 Thessalonians 4; 1 Thessalonians 5; 2 Thessalonians 1; 2 Thessalonians 2; 2 Thessalonians 3
Scripture
1 Thessalonians 5:18
“give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.”
Observation
I think we need to understand what this verse says and what it doesn’t say. Paul says that we need to give thanks in all circumstances, but he doesn’t say give thanks for all circumstances. We don’t thank the Lord for a tragedy, but we should be thankful to the Lord while we go through the tragedy. We don’t thank God for a terrible automobile accident where several of our family members were injured badly, but we are thankful to God that He will help us endure the crisis and see us through it.
Application
I need to look around today and be thankful for what God is doing in my “circumstances” right now!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to have a thankful heart. Thank you for being with us no matter what we go through. We never go through any circumstance alone; you are always with us, guiding and strengthening us.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
May Your Love Increase and Overflow!
Matthew 28; 1 Thessalonians 1; 1 Thessalonians 2; 1 Thessalonians 3
Scripture
1 Thessalonians 3:12-13
“May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else, just as ours does for you. 13 May he strengthen your hearts so that you will be blameless and holy in the presence of our God and Father when our Lord Jesus comes with all his holy ones.”
Observation
When a toilet overflows it is not a good thing, but when a heart overflows with God’s love that is a very good thing. Paul is praying a blessing asking that their love increase and that it overflow. It is a good prayer for you today.
Application
I will pray this prayer of blessing today to the folks that God brings to my mind.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, may our church staff’s love increase and overflow to all of our church members today. May You strengthen our staff’s hearts so they will be blameless and holy in Your presence.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Matthew 28; 1 Thessalonians 1; 1 Thessalonians 2; 1 Thessalonians 3
Scripture
1 Thessalonians 3:12-13
“May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else, just as ours does for you. 13 May he strengthen your hearts so that you will be blameless and holy in the presence of our God and Father when our Lord Jesus comes with all his holy ones.”
Observation
When a toilet overflows it is not a good thing, but when a heart overflows with God’s love that is a very good thing. Paul is praying a blessing asking that their love increase and that it overflow. It is a good prayer for you today.
Application
I will pray this prayer of blessing today to the folks that God brings to my mind.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, may our church staff’s love increase and overflow to all of our church members today. May You strengthen our staff’s hearts so they will be blameless and holy in Your presence.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Monday, November 27, 2006
A Gift 100% Free, Yet Very Costly!
Psalm 125; Matthew 26; Matthew 27
Scripture
The Soldiers Mock Jesus
Matthew 27: 27-31
“Then the governor's soldiers took Jesus into the Praetorium and gathered the whole company of soldiers around him. 28 They stripped him and put a scarlet robe on him, 29 and then twisted together a crown of thorns and set it on his head. They put a staff in his right hand and knelt in front of him and mocked him. "Hail, king of the Jews!" they said. 30 They spit on him, and took the staff and struck him on the head again and again. 31 After they had mocked him, they took off the robe and put his own clothes on him. Then they led him away to crucify him.”
Observation
A gift has to be completely free for the person that receives it or it is not a gift. Jesus offers us salvation/eternal life and it doesn’t cost us anything, yet it cost Him everything! He was nailed to a cross for me and for you. He suffered for me and for you. It is the Christmas story!
Application
This weekend we begin our Mission’s Conference. Missionaries will tell their story and we will experience “Christmas”. On Wednesday, Dec. 6th we have the opportunity to bring our Lottie Moon offering and present it to Him. It is His birthday that we celebrate at Christmas so next week is really Christmas for us.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me bring you an offering worthy of a King. May our church give sacrificially and may our offerings honor you.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Psalm 125; Matthew 26; Matthew 27
Scripture
The Soldiers Mock Jesus
Matthew 27: 27-31
“Then the governor's soldiers took Jesus into the Praetorium and gathered the whole company of soldiers around him. 28 They stripped him and put a scarlet robe on him, 29 and then twisted together a crown of thorns and set it on his head. They put a staff in his right hand and knelt in front of him and mocked him. "Hail, king of the Jews!" they said. 30 They spit on him, and took the staff and struck him on the head again and again. 31 After they had mocked him, they took off the robe and put his own clothes on him. Then they led him away to crucify him.”
Observation
A gift has to be completely free for the person that receives it or it is not a gift. Jesus offers us salvation/eternal life and it doesn’t cost us anything, yet it cost Him everything! He was nailed to a cross for me and for you. He suffered for me and for you. It is the Christmas story!
Application
This weekend we begin our Mission’s Conference. Missionaries will tell their story and we will experience “Christmas”. On Wednesday, Dec. 6th we have the opportunity to bring our Lottie Moon offering and present it to Him. It is His birthday that we celebrate at Christmas so next week is really Christmas for us.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me bring you an offering worthy of a King. May our church give sacrificially and may our offerings honor you.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
For Out of the Overflow of the Heart the Mouth Speaks!
Matthew 11; Matthew 12; Matthew 13
Scripture
Matthew 12:33-37
"Make a tree good and its fruit will be good, or make a tree bad and its fruit will be bad, for a tree is recognized by its fruit. 34 You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good? For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks. 35 The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him. 36 But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. 37 For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned."
Observation
Have you ever heard someone defend another person's mean or ugly comments by saying, “Oh, they really don’t mean what they are saying”? Sorry, but Jesus says, “for out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks”. So when a person blurts out with a mean, hurtful, or thoughtless remark they are just expressing what is already in their heart.
Application
I am going to think about what I say today and how I say it.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me guard my heart today. May the meditation of my heart and the words of my mouth be pleasing to you today!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Matthew 11; Matthew 12; Matthew 13
Scripture
Matthew 12:33-37
"Make a tree good and its fruit will be good, or make a tree bad and its fruit will be bad, for a tree is recognized by its fruit. 34 You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good? For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks. 35 The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him. 36 But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. 37 For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned."
Observation
Have you ever heard someone defend another person's mean or ugly comments by saying, “Oh, they really don’t mean what they are saying”? Sorry, but Jesus says, “for out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks”. So when a person blurts out with a mean, hurtful, or thoughtless remark they are just expressing what is already in their heart.
Application
I am going to think about what I say today and how I say it.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me guard my heart today. May the meditation of my heart and the words of my mouth be pleasing to you today!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
Simple as a Cool Cup of Water!
Matthew 8; Matthew 9; Matthew 10
Scripture
Matthew 10:40-42
"He who receives you receives me, and he who receives me receives the one who sent me. 41 Anyone who receives a prophet because he is a prophet will receive a prophet's reward, and anyone who receives a righteous man because he is a righteous man will receive a righteous man's reward. 42 And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones because he is my disciple, I tell you the truth, he will certainly not lose his reward."
Observation
In Heaven we are going to receive rewards for what we do down here for others in the name of Jesus. As we worked in Gulf Port, Mississippi repairing homes and a Baptist Church I thought about this verse. We just went to help out, but we went in the Name of Jesus, as Christ-Followers. Now if our hearts were right as we did the work in Mississippi then when we get to Heaven we will be rewarded for the things we accomplished.
Application
Serving others is serving Jesus; when we are do things with the right motives!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, search my heart and show me anything that is not right so I can confess it to You and have a clean heart. Help my motives for serving You today be from a pure heart. Help me touch someone’s life today for you!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Matthew 8; Matthew 9; Matthew 10
Scripture
Matthew 10:40-42
"He who receives you receives me, and he who receives me receives the one who sent me. 41 Anyone who receives a prophet because he is a prophet will receive a prophet's reward, and anyone who receives a righteous man because he is a righteous man will receive a righteous man's reward. 42 And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones because he is my disciple, I tell you the truth, he will certainly not lose his reward."
Observation
In Heaven we are going to receive rewards for what we do down here for others in the name of Jesus. As we worked in Gulf Port, Mississippi repairing homes and a Baptist Church I thought about this verse. We just went to help out, but we went in the Name of Jesus, as Christ-Followers. Now if our hearts were right as we did the work in Mississippi then when we get to Heaven we will be rewarded for the things we accomplished.
Application
Serving others is serving Jesus; when we are do things with the right motives!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, search my heart and show me anything that is not right so I can confess it to You and have a clean heart. Help my motives for serving You today be from a pure heart. Help me touch someone’s life today for you!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Monday, November 20, 2006
Hey! What's That Sticking Out of Your Eye?
Matthew 5; Matthew 6; Matthew 7
Scripture
Matthew 7:3-5
"Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? 4 How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? 5 You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye.
Observation
It is so easy to pick out the faults in other people and miss the major shortcomings in our own lives. Jesus says that we shouldn’t worry about the speck of sawdust in someone else’s eye until we get the plank out of ours. I can visualize someone walking around with a big board sticking out of one of his or her eyes as they criticize someone else. It is so easy to be critical because it is how our flesh operates.
Application
I am going to look for any planks in my eyes today and try hard not to be critical of another brother!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me today to only see the good in the people I encounter today, give me your eyes today. Thank you for the decisions made in church yesterday. May you continue to help the new believers grow that you have brought to our fellowship. Use us to help them grow!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Matthew 5; Matthew 6; Matthew 7
Scripture
Matthew 7:3-5
"Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? 4 How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? 5 You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye.
Observation
It is so easy to pick out the faults in other people and miss the major shortcomings in our own lives. Jesus says that we shouldn’t worry about the speck of sawdust in someone else’s eye until we get the plank out of ours. I can visualize someone walking around with a big board sticking out of one of his or her eyes as they criticize someone else. It is so easy to be critical because it is how our flesh operates.
Application
I am going to look for any planks in my eyes today and try hard not to be critical of another brother!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me today to only see the good in the people I encounter today, give me your eyes today. Thank you for the decisions made in church yesterday. May you continue to help the new believers grow that you have brought to our fellowship. Use us to help them grow!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
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