Hungry on a Day of Thanksgiving
Matthew 11; Matthew 12; Matthew 13
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Scripture
Matthew 12
Lord of the Sabbath
1 At that time Jesus went through the grainfields on the Sabbath. His disciples were hungry and began to pick some heads of grain and eat them. 2 When the Pharisees saw this, they said to him, "Look! Your disciples are doing what is unlawful on the Sabbath."
3 He answered, "Haven't you read what David did when he and his companions were hungry? 4 He entered the house of God, and he and his companions ate the consecrated bread—which was not lawful for them to do, but only for the priests. 5 Or haven't you read in the Law that on the Sabbath the priests in the temple desecrate the day and yet are innocent? 6 I tell you that one greater than the temple is here. 7 If you had known what these words mean, 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice, you would not have condemned the innocent. 8 For the Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath."
Observation
Today is Thanksgiving! We will celebrate this special day with a huge feast. Turkey, ham and all the trimmings…I can’t wait.
It can make you hungry just smelling the 24-pound turkey that I have cooking in our oven.
The disciples were hungry and began to eat. The Pharisees criticized them for harvesting the heads of grain because it was the Sabbath.
The disciples were also spiritually hungry, but the Pharisees were not. Are you hungry today for the things of God? I am.
Application
Today I will give thanks all day to the Lord.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for this day, a day when we will gather as families to give you thanks. Help today be special Lord. I pray for those that will come over to our house today. May they be drawn to a relationship with you. May they have a hunger to know you. Amen.
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Thursday, November 22, 2007
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Don’t Be Afraid
Matthew 8; Matthew 9; Matthew 10
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Scripture
Matthew 10
31 So don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.
Observation
Have you ever gone through the scriptures and looked for passages where God is telling us “not to be afraid”. The Bible is full of verses like this. Can you think of some? How about these for example:
Isaiah 35:4 say to those with fearful hearts, "Be strong, do not fear; your God will come, he will come with vengeance; with divine retribution he will come to save you."
Isaiah 43:1 But now, this is what the Lord says-- he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: "Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.
Mark 5:36 ignoring what they said, Jesus told the synagogue ruler, "Don't be afraid; just believe."
Luke 5:10 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."
There is a reason that God repeated this over and over again in scripture and it is because we have a tendency to be afraid. What causes you to be afraid today?
Application
Fear is a lack of faith. I will believe God’s word today when He says that because I am worth much more than sparrows and He watches over them that I should not be afraid.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, you know what brings fear to my heart. You know that my concern for your church many times becomes more than concern and becomes fear. Help me to trust you about the things that bring fear to my heart. You have redeemed me and you have called me by my name. I know that I am the delight of your heart. Thank you for watching over me. Amen.
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Matthew 8; Matthew 9; Matthew 10
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Scripture
Matthew 10
31 So don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.
Observation
Have you ever gone through the scriptures and looked for passages where God is telling us “not to be afraid”. The Bible is full of verses like this. Can you think of some? How about these for example:
Isaiah 35:4 say to those with fearful hearts, "Be strong, do not fear; your God will come, he will come with vengeance; with divine retribution he will come to save you."
Isaiah 43:1 But now, this is what the Lord says-- he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: "Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.
Mark 5:36 ignoring what they said, Jesus told the synagogue ruler, "Don't be afraid; just believe."
Luke 5:10 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."
There is a reason that God repeated this over and over again in scripture and it is because we have a tendency to be afraid. What causes you to be afraid today?
Application
Fear is a lack of faith. I will believe God’s word today when He says that because I am worth much more than sparrows and He watches over them that I should not be afraid.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, you know what brings fear to my heart. You know that my concern for your church many times becomes more than concern and becomes fear. Help me to trust you about the things that bring fear to my heart. You have redeemed me and you have called me by my name. I know that I am the delight of your heart. Thank you for watching over me. Amen.
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Monday, November 19, 2007
His Name Will be Jesus
Matthew 1; Matthew 2; Matthew 3; Matthew 4
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Scripture
Matthew 1
20 But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 21 She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins."
22 All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: 23 "The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel"—which means, "God with us."
24 When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. 25 But he had no union with her until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus.
Observation
When you think of the name Jesus what comes to your mind? There is not a more beautiful name in the entire world as “Jesus”. Jesus, Jesus, Jesus there is just something about that Name.
The world needs to hear the name “Jesus”. I heard a testimony yesterday in our church of a young mother that was set free from drug addiction and it was by the power of Jesus that she was set free. I listened to her story and I gave praise to God for the power in His Name.
He came to set you and me free. Is there something that you are struggling with today? Call on Jesus.
Application
Jesus, Jesus, Jesus …He is more than able to change the lives of those around me. And He is constantly working in every life of those that I love. Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, there is something wonderful about that Name! I am trusting Him to do a Mighty work in their lives.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, Jesus is your gift to us. Immanuel, God with us. Thank you for sending Jesus. Thank you for this Christmas story that I had the chance to read today a month before Christmas. I pray that this Thanksgiving will be all about you. I pray that you will draw those in our family closer to you during this holiday season. May all of our extended family find Jesus. Amen.
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Matthew 1; Matthew 2; Matthew 3; Matthew 4
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Scripture
Matthew 1
20 But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 21 She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins."
22 All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: 23 "The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel"—which means, "God with us."
24 When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. 25 But he had no union with her until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus.
Observation
When you think of the name Jesus what comes to your mind? There is not a more beautiful name in the entire world as “Jesus”. Jesus, Jesus, Jesus there is just something about that Name.
The world needs to hear the name “Jesus”. I heard a testimony yesterday in our church of a young mother that was set free from drug addiction and it was by the power of Jesus that she was set free. I listened to her story and I gave praise to God for the power in His Name.
He came to set you and me free. Is there something that you are struggling with today? Call on Jesus.
Application
Jesus, Jesus, Jesus …He is more than able to change the lives of those around me. And He is constantly working in every life of those that I love. Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, there is something wonderful about that Name! I am trusting Him to do a Mighty work in their lives.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, Jesus is your gift to us. Immanuel, God with us. Thank you for sending Jesus. Thank you for this Christmas story that I had the chance to read today a month before Christmas. I pray that this Thanksgiving will be all about you. I pray that you will draw those in our family closer to you during this holiday season. May all of our extended family find Jesus. Amen.
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Sunday, November 18, 2007
Summary of Paul’s Trials
Psalm 124; 2 Corinthians 11; 2 Corinthians 12; 2 Corinthians 13
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Scripture
2 Corinthians 11
What anyone else dares to boast about—I am speaking as a fool—I also dare to boast about. 22 Are they Hebrews? So am I. Are they Israelites? So am I. Are they Abraham's descendants? So am I. 23 Are they servants of Christ? (I am out of my mind to talk like this.) I am more. I have worked much harder, been in prison more frequently, been flogged more severely, and been exposed to death again and again. 24 Five times I received from the Jews the forty lashes minus one. 25 Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was stoned, three times I was shipwrecked, I spent a night and a day in the open sea, 26 I have been constantly on the move. I have been in danger from rivers, in danger from bandits, in danger from my own countrymen, in danger from Gentiles; in danger in the city, in danger in the country, in danger at sea; and in danger from false brothers. 27 I have labored and toiled and have often gone without sleep; I have known hunger and thirst and have often gone without food; I have been cold and naked. 28 Besides everything else, I face daily the pressure of my concern for all the churches. 29 Who is weak, and I do not feel weak? Who is led into sin, and I do not inwardly burn?
Observation
Have you had a rough week? Check out Paul’s journey and how easy he had it. When we think of the Apostle Paul we usually think of how successful he was in taking the Gospel to the Gentiles but we normally don’t think about the personal cost. Have you been hungry or thirsty, have you been beaten, or stoned because of your faith in Jesus. I didn’t think so … me either.
If you mention coming back to church on Sunday night some people think of it as a sacrifice. Hmmm.
Application
Nothing I deal with compares to the trials endured by Paul. So today I will rejoice and be glad and I will give thanks for all that He has done in my life.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, compared to what Jesus went through on the cross and compared to what Paul experienced in his ministry I should have no complaints about anything in my life. Today I give you thanks. Bring to my mind someone that needs to be drawn closer to you today so I can talk to them. Use me today Lord to draw them a step closer to you. Amen.
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Psalm 124; 2 Corinthians 11; 2 Corinthians 12; 2 Corinthians 13
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Scripture
2 Corinthians 11
What anyone else dares to boast about—I am speaking as a fool—I also dare to boast about. 22 Are they Hebrews? So am I. Are they Israelites? So am I. Are they Abraham's descendants? So am I. 23 Are they servants of Christ? (I am out of my mind to talk like this.) I am more. I have worked much harder, been in prison more frequently, been flogged more severely, and been exposed to death again and again. 24 Five times I received from the Jews the forty lashes minus one. 25 Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was stoned, three times I was shipwrecked, I spent a night and a day in the open sea, 26 I have been constantly on the move. I have been in danger from rivers, in danger from bandits, in danger from my own countrymen, in danger from Gentiles; in danger in the city, in danger in the country, in danger at sea; and in danger from false brothers. 27 I have labored and toiled and have often gone without sleep; I have known hunger and thirst and have often gone without food; I have been cold and naked. 28 Besides everything else, I face daily the pressure of my concern for all the churches. 29 Who is weak, and I do not feel weak? Who is led into sin, and I do not inwardly burn?
Observation
Have you had a rough week? Check out Paul’s journey and how easy he had it. When we think of the Apostle Paul we usually think of how successful he was in taking the Gospel to the Gentiles but we normally don’t think about the personal cost. Have you been hungry or thirsty, have you been beaten, or stoned because of your faith in Jesus. I didn’t think so … me either.
If you mention coming back to church on Sunday night some people think of it as a sacrifice. Hmmm.
Application
Nothing I deal with compares to the trials endured by Paul. So today I will rejoice and be glad and I will give thanks for all that He has done in my life.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, compared to what Jesus went through on the cross and compared to what Paul experienced in his ministry I should have no complaints about anything in my life. Today I give you thanks. Bring to my mind someone that needs to be drawn closer to you today so I can talk to them. Use me today Lord to draw them a step closer to you. Amen.
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Saturday, November 17, 2007
His Indescribable Gift!
2 Corinthians 7; 2 Corinthians 8; 2 Corinthians 9; 2 Corinthians 10
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Scripture
2 Corinthians 9
15 Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!
Observation
Paul is writing the church at Corinth encouraging them to give a gift to help relieve the needs of Christians suffering in Macedonia. He talks about the law of reaping and sowing, and he uses the Macedonian churches as examples of how we should give. He talks of Jesus being rich but becoming poor for each one of us. Then he ends the chapter talking about God’s greatest gift, His Indescribable gift.
Have you decided how much you will give back to Jesus this Christmas? Southern Baptist have the “Lottie Moon Christmas Offering” which provides more than half of all the money for our International mission effort. Our goal this year is $165 million dollars. Our church’s goal is $35, 207. Last year our church gave over $39,000 surpassing last year’s $34,206 goal. It is a small way of saying “Thanks” for His indescribable gift!
Let me encourage you and your family to set a high goal to give to Missions this year?
Application
In 2008 how can I give more away and keep less. "He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose." Jim Elliot
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to be generous with all that you have given me. Help me to set my heart on things in Heaven and not stuff on this earth. Thank you for your Indescribable Gift. Thank you for Jesus and thank you for the life I have because of this Indescribable Gift. Amen.
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2 Corinthians 7; 2 Corinthians 8; 2 Corinthians 9; 2 Corinthians 10
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Scripture
2 Corinthians 9
15 Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!
Observation
Paul is writing the church at Corinth encouraging them to give a gift to help relieve the needs of Christians suffering in Macedonia. He talks about the law of reaping and sowing, and he uses the Macedonian churches as examples of how we should give. He talks of Jesus being rich but becoming poor for each one of us. Then he ends the chapter talking about God’s greatest gift, His Indescribable gift.
Have you decided how much you will give back to Jesus this Christmas? Southern Baptist have the “Lottie Moon Christmas Offering” which provides more than half of all the money for our International mission effort. Our goal this year is $165 million dollars. Our church’s goal is $35, 207. Last year our church gave over $39,000 surpassing last year’s $34,206 goal. It is a small way of saying “Thanks” for His indescribable gift!
Let me encourage you and your family to set a high goal to give to Missions this year?
Application
In 2008 how can I give more away and keep less. "He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose." Jim Elliot
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to be generous with all that you have given me. Help me to set my heart on things in Heaven and not stuff on this earth. Thank you for your Indescribable Gift. Thank you for Jesus and thank you for the life I have because of this Indescribable Gift. Amen.
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Friday, November 16, 2007
Poor, Yet Making Many Rich, Having Nothing, and Yet Possessing Everything
2 Corinthians 3; 2 Corinthians 4; 2 Corinthians 5; 2 Corinthians 6
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Scripture
2 Corinthians 6
Paul's Hardships
3 We put no stumbling block in anyone's path, so that our ministry will not be discredited. 4 Rather, as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: in great endurance; in troubles, hardships and distresses; 5 in beatings, imprisonments and riots; in hard work, sleepless nights and hunger; 6 in purity, understanding, patience and kindness; in the Holy Spirit and in sincere love; 7 n truthful speech and in the power of God; with weapons of righteousness in the right hand and in the left; 8 through glory and dishonor, bad report and good report; genuine, yet regarded as impostors; 9 known, yet regarded as unknown; dying, and yet we live on; beaten, and yet not killed; 10 sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; poor, yet making many rich; having nothing, and yet possessing everything.
Observation
How much are we like the World around us? It seemed that Paul and his Lord Jesus lived differently than most of us do. Poor, yet making many rich, having nothing, and yet possessing everything doesn’t sound like the Williams. While on vacation Kathy and I talked about cleaning out a storage unit that we have because it is filled with stuff that we don’t need. How much stuff do we really need in our lives? Paul at one time was probably very wealthy but he made a choice to have nothing so that he could have everything. I want to be poor but making many rich. How about you?
Application
The stuff of life that surrounds me is not life. I want to live life with the attitude that Paul had about possessions.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, show me what is important in life. Free me up to be completely able to go where you want me to go and to live life as simple as I possibly can. Help Kathy and I down size to where you want us to be. Show us how we should live our lives. Impress upon us what we should give up and what we should focus on. We want to make others rich spiritually Lord. Help us to do that. Amen.
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2 Corinthians 3; 2 Corinthians 4; 2 Corinthians 5; 2 Corinthians 6
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Scripture
2 Corinthians 6
Paul's Hardships
3 We put no stumbling block in anyone's path, so that our ministry will not be discredited. 4 Rather, as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: in great endurance; in troubles, hardships and distresses; 5 in beatings, imprisonments and riots; in hard work, sleepless nights and hunger; 6 in purity, understanding, patience and kindness; in the Holy Spirit and in sincere love; 7 n truthful speech and in the power of God; with weapons of righteousness in the right hand and in the left; 8 through glory and dishonor, bad report and good report; genuine, yet regarded as impostors; 9 known, yet regarded as unknown; dying, and yet we live on; beaten, and yet not killed; 10 sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; poor, yet making many rich; having nothing, and yet possessing everything.
Observation
How much are we like the World around us? It seemed that Paul and his Lord Jesus lived differently than most of us do. Poor, yet making many rich, having nothing, and yet possessing everything doesn’t sound like the Williams. While on vacation Kathy and I talked about cleaning out a storage unit that we have because it is filled with stuff that we don’t need. How much stuff do we really need in our lives? Paul at one time was probably very wealthy but he made a choice to have nothing so that he could have everything. I want to be poor but making many rich. How about you?
Application
The stuff of life that surrounds me is not life. I want to live life with the attitude that Paul had about possessions.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, show me what is important in life. Free me up to be completely able to go where you want me to go and to live life as simple as I possibly can. Help Kathy and I down size to where you want us to be. Show us how we should live our lives. Impress upon us what we should give up and what we should focus on. We want to make others rich spiritually Lord. Help us to do that. Amen.
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Thursday, November 15, 2007
Yes…In Christ
Job 41; Job 42; 2 Corinthians 1; 2 Corinthians 2
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Scripture
2 Corinthians 1
20 For no matter how many promises God has made, they are "Yes" in Christ. And so through him the "Amen" is spoken by us to the glory of God. 21 Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us, 22 set his seal of ownership on us, and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.
Observation
God’s promises are “Yes” in Christ. He can be counted on. What He promises He will deliver. We don’t have to wonder if God will change His mind or go back on His promise. His “Yes” is “Yes” always. Jesus Christ dying on the cross and coming back to life is God’s guarantee that He can and He will keep His promises. Have you ever found one thing that God promised that He didn’t do? Me either. He is completely trustworthy.
Application
Today I will think of God’s many promises and thank Him for being completely 100% trustworthy.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, you are so good. I thank you that today I can trust in you completely. Thank you for always being the same and not changing. Thank you for not changing your mind about me. Thank you for your goodness. Thank you for your kindness. Thank you for all of your promises in scripture. I love you Lord. Help me to be dependable like you and help me to think of ways I can help other people today and not think of just myself. Let my “Yes” be “Yes” today. Amen.
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Job 41; Job 42; 2 Corinthians 1; 2 Corinthians 2
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Scripture
2 Corinthians 1
20 For no matter how many promises God has made, they are "Yes" in Christ. And so through him the "Amen" is spoken by us to the glory of God. 21 Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us, 22 set his seal of ownership on us, and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.
Observation
God’s promises are “Yes” in Christ. He can be counted on. What He promises He will deliver. We don’t have to wonder if God will change His mind or go back on His promise. His “Yes” is “Yes” always. Jesus Christ dying on the cross and coming back to life is God’s guarantee that He can and He will keep His promises. Have you ever found one thing that God promised that He didn’t do? Me either. He is completely trustworthy.
Application
Today I will think of God’s many promises and thank Him for being completely 100% trustworthy.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, you are so good. I thank you that today I can trust in you completely. Thank you for always being the same and not changing. Thank you for not changing your mind about me. Thank you for your goodness. Thank you for your kindness. Thank you for all of your promises in scripture. I love you Lord. Help me to be dependable like you and help me to think of ways I can help other people today and not think of just myself. Let my “Yes” be “Yes” today. Amen.
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Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Be Men of Courage, Be Strong. Do everything in love.
Psalm 149; 1 Corinthians 15; 1 Corinthians 16
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Scripture
1 Corinthians 16
13 Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong. 14 Do everything in love.
Observation
Standing firm, being men of courage, being strong may be the easiest part of these two verses. I find that it is so easy to be mean. Meanness seems to be so easy for me. Paul says that we should be on our guard; we should stand firm in the faith; we should be men of courage; we should be strong then he adds the seemingly impossible part when he says that we should do everything in love.
It is so easy for me to be mean. How about you? Yesterday, I wrote about some of the stuff going on within the Board of Trustees of the International Mission Board and as I read different peoples comments about the controversy on different peoples blogs I picked up on the meanness in some of the comments. It is one of the reasons that I don’t write comments on those blogs if I did you might catch me being mean just like the folks I am talking about.
I admire the men and women that write and speak out strongly about what they believe and are able to do it in a tone of love. Wow! They are my heroes. David Rogers and Wade Burleson are two of those people. In this disagreement and any other it is important to focus on the issue and not attack the person. Taking pot shots at people and attacking them personally is so wrong.
Over the last few days as I read some of the comments made on Wade Burleson’s blog I read some that came from a man that I know personally. It saddened me as I read them because it was attacks on Wade as a person and it made this person I know look so foolish. The lesson to me is that it is best not to write anything on a blog if your heart is not right. Those comments will stay up there for a long time for everyone to read. It is a reflection of our hearts.
Meanness comes so easy. It takes courage to stand firm in the faith and at the same time do everything in love.
Application
As I drive home with Kathy today back to Tampa after having a wonderful vacation may I put verse 14 into practice as we drive and may I do everything in love.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, you know how easy it is for me to be mean. Help me to be on my guard, help me to stand firmly in the faith, help me to be a man of courage, but above all else Lord help me do everything today in love. Amen.
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Psalm 149; 1 Corinthians 15; 1 Corinthians 16
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Scripture
1 Corinthians 16
13 Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong. 14 Do everything in love.
Observation
Standing firm, being men of courage, being strong may be the easiest part of these two verses. I find that it is so easy to be mean. Meanness seems to be so easy for me. Paul says that we should be on our guard; we should stand firm in the faith; we should be men of courage; we should be strong then he adds the seemingly impossible part when he says that we should do everything in love.
It is so easy for me to be mean. How about you? Yesterday, I wrote about some of the stuff going on within the Board of Trustees of the International Mission Board and as I read different peoples comments about the controversy on different peoples blogs I picked up on the meanness in some of the comments. It is one of the reasons that I don’t write comments on those blogs if I did you might catch me being mean just like the folks I am talking about.
I admire the men and women that write and speak out strongly about what they believe and are able to do it in a tone of love. Wow! They are my heroes. David Rogers and Wade Burleson are two of those people. In this disagreement and any other it is important to focus on the issue and not attack the person. Taking pot shots at people and attacking them personally is so wrong.
Over the last few days as I read some of the comments made on Wade Burleson’s blog I read some that came from a man that I know personally. It saddened me as I read them because it was attacks on Wade as a person and it made this person I know look so foolish. The lesson to me is that it is best not to write anything on a blog if your heart is not right. Those comments will stay up there for a long time for everyone to read. It is a reflection of our hearts.
Meanness comes so easy. It takes courage to stand firm in the faith and at the same time do everything in love.
Application
As I drive home with Kathy today back to Tampa after having a wonderful vacation may I put verse 14 into practice as we drive and may I do everything in love.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, you know how easy it is for me to be mean. Help me to be on my guard, help me to stand firmly in the faith, help me to be a man of courage, but above all else Lord help me do everything today in love. Amen.
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Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Example of How We Pick and Choose Scripture Today
Job 39; Job 40; 1 Corinthians 13; 1 Corinthians 14
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Scripture
1 Corinthians 14
5 I would like every one of you to speak in tongues, but I would rather have you prophesy. He who prophesies is greater than one who speaks in tongues, unless he interprets, so that the church may be edified.
18 I thank God that I speak in tongues more than all of you. 19 But in the church I would rather speak five intelligible words to instruct others than ten thousand words in a tongue.
33b…As in all the congregations of the saints, 34 women should remain silent in the churches. They are not allowed to speak, but must be in submission, as the Law says. 35 If they want to inquire about something, they should ask their own husbands at home; for it is disgraceful for a woman to speak in the church.
39 Therefore, my brothers, be eager to prophesy, and do not forbid speaking in tongues. 40 But everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way.
Observation
Did you know that the International Mission Board made a policy against anyone having a habit of a private prayer language? In fact, if you have one then you cannot become an IMB missionary. Wade Burleson, a trustee of the IMB has been in big trouble with fellow trustees because of his stance against this policy and a policy about baptism, which in my opinion is just as bad.
We Baptist are supposed to be men of women of the Bible. The Bible is supposed to be our guide, but oh how we can pick and choose what we decide to say is valid and what we decide to say should not be applied to us today. Just read I Corinthians 14 and see what I mean.
I am not advocating speaking in tongues, and I don’t have a private prayer language, but if I had one I don’t believe that it should disqualify me from being an IMB missionary. God is God. And if he wants someone to speak to him in a private prayer language who am I to tell that person that they are wrong. The Apostle Paul gives good counsel about the gifts, but he adds that we should not forbid the speaking of tongues.
My question in all of this controversy is what was the motivation behind establishing the two policies? I believe that behind it all there is a heart problem. Our board already had guidelines about these two items.
When you allow a policy to be written that would exclude the President of the organization Jerry Rankin from ever serving as an IMB missionary again because he has admitted to having a private prayer language I think that you have to question the underlying motivation for the policy. Jerry Rankin was picked to lead the IMB over all of the other 5,000+ missionaries for a reason and it was known when he was placed in that position that he had a private prayer language.
What changed?
There was no abuse on the mission field that caused the board to establish this policy. Was it because a new group of trustees came in with a different view of scripture?
Something is wrong.
Why didn’t leadership support our President? I guess that is what bothers me about all of this more than anything. It was a slap in his face. And now the Board of Trustees have censored one of their own for speaking out against those policies and saying that he spoke negatively about them.
Oh how we pick and choose!
Application
I will continue to pray for the leadership of the IMB and I will continue to pray for the leadership of the Board of Trustees that they have wisdom and discernment to do the right thing.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word. Thank you that it is powerful and it changes lives. I pray for our leaders today. Give them wisdom. Give them insight. Help them to do the right thing. It seems that they are caught up in things that are not worthy of their time and energy. Help them to focus on the lost. Help them understand that making rules and punishing people that break their rules is not what they were called to do. Give them your wisdom Lord. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Job 39; Job 40; 1 Corinthians 13; 1 Corinthians 14
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Scripture
1 Corinthians 14
5 I would like every one of you to speak in tongues, but I would rather have you prophesy. He who prophesies is greater than one who speaks in tongues, unless he interprets, so that the church may be edified.
18 I thank God that I speak in tongues more than all of you. 19 But in the church I would rather speak five intelligible words to instruct others than ten thousand words in a tongue.
33b…As in all the congregations of the saints, 34 women should remain silent in the churches. They are not allowed to speak, but must be in submission, as the Law says. 35 If they want to inquire about something, they should ask their own husbands at home; for it is disgraceful for a woman to speak in the church.
39 Therefore, my brothers, be eager to prophesy, and do not forbid speaking in tongues. 40 But everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way.
Observation
Did you know that the International Mission Board made a policy against anyone having a habit of a private prayer language? In fact, if you have one then you cannot become an IMB missionary. Wade Burleson, a trustee of the IMB has been in big trouble with fellow trustees because of his stance against this policy and a policy about baptism, which in my opinion is just as bad.
We Baptist are supposed to be men of women of the Bible. The Bible is supposed to be our guide, but oh how we can pick and choose what we decide to say is valid and what we decide to say should not be applied to us today. Just read I Corinthians 14 and see what I mean.
I am not advocating speaking in tongues, and I don’t have a private prayer language, but if I had one I don’t believe that it should disqualify me from being an IMB missionary. God is God. And if he wants someone to speak to him in a private prayer language who am I to tell that person that they are wrong. The Apostle Paul gives good counsel about the gifts, but he adds that we should not forbid the speaking of tongues.
My question in all of this controversy is what was the motivation behind establishing the two policies? I believe that behind it all there is a heart problem. Our board already had guidelines about these two items.
When you allow a policy to be written that would exclude the President of the organization Jerry Rankin from ever serving as an IMB missionary again because he has admitted to having a private prayer language I think that you have to question the underlying motivation for the policy. Jerry Rankin was picked to lead the IMB over all of the other 5,000+ missionaries for a reason and it was known when he was placed in that position that he had a private prayer language.
What changed?
There was no abuse on the mission field that caused the board to establish this policy. Was it because a new group of trustees came in with a different view of scripture?
Something is wrong.
Why didn’t leadership support our President? I guess that is what bothers me about all of this more than anything. It was a slap in his face. And now the Board of Trustees have censored one of their own for speaking out against those policies and saying that he spoke negatively about them.
Oh how we pick and choose!
Application
I will continue to pray for the leadership of the IMB and I will continue to pray for the leadership of the Board of Trustees that they have wisdom and discernment to do the right thing.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word. Thank you that it is powerful and it changes lives. I pray for our leaders today. Give them wisdom. Give them insight. Help them to do the right thing. It seems that they are caught up in things that are not worthy of their time and energy. Help them to focus on the lost. Help them understand that making rules and punishing people that break their rules is not what they were called to do. Give them your wisdom Lord. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Wednesday, November 07, 2007
Have You Made This Covenant?
Job 31; Job 32; Galatians 5; Galatians 6
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Scripture
Job 31
31:1 "I made a covenant with my eyes
not to look lustfully at a girl.
Observation
Do you remember ever reading this verse before?
Interesting isn’t it how the Bible speaks new and fresh everyday. I don’t ever remember reading this verse before, but I know that I have. A covenant with your eyes not to look lustfully at a girl…have you made that covenant? I am making that covenant today. How about you?
Application
I need to make a covenant with my eyes not to look lustfully at a girl (except Kathy).
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me keep the covenant that I am making with eyes today. Help me to not to look lustfully at any girl. Thank you for a wonderful day yesterday. I pray that the Billy Graham ministry will continue to go strong to reach this world for Christ. I pray for John Seale today that you give him strength and continue to heal his body. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Job 31; Job 32; Galatians 5; Galatians 6
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Scripture
Job 31
31:1 "I made a covenant with my eyes
not to look lustfully at a girl.
Observation
Do you remember ever reading this verse before?
Interesting isn’t it how the Bible speaks new and fresh everyday. I don’t ever remember reading this verse before, but I know that I have. A covenant with your eyes not to look lustfully at a girl…have you made that covenant? I am making that covenant today. How about you?
Application
I need to make a covenant with my eyes not to look lustfully at a girl (except Kathy).
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me keep the covenant that I am making with eyes today. Help me to not to look lustfully at any girl. Thank you for a wonderful day yesterday. I pray that the Billy Graham ministry will continue to go strong to reach this world for Christ. I pray for John Seale today that you give him strength and continue to heal his body. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Tuesday, November 06, 2007
We Are In Charlotte, North Carolina!
Job 30; Psalm 120; Galatians 3; Galatians 4
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Scripture
Observation
In just a minute we will be going to see the Billy Graham Library. If I have a chance later today I will let you know all about it. Check it out at this link.
Application
Prayer
Thank you for getting us to North Carolina safely. Help us today to bring you glory. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Job 30; Psalm 120; Galatians 3; Galatians 4
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Scripture
Observation
In just a minute we will be going to see the Billy Graham Library. If I have a chance later today I will let you know all about it. Check it out at this link.
Application
Prayer
Thank you for getting us to North Carolina safely. Help us today to bring you glory. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Monday, November 05, 2007
This may be my last post until we return from North Carolina on Nov. 15th.
Crucified With Christ
Job 28; Job 29; Galatians 1; Galatians 2
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Scripture
Galatians 2:20-21
20 I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. 21 I do not set aside the grace of God, for if righteousness could be gained through the law, Christ died for nothing!"
Observation
Do I act like I have been crucified? Or do I still want things my way thinking only of me and mine.
We are to be a living sacrifice so that means it is a daily death to self.
Application
Today I want to live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.
May Kathy see more of Christ today in my life as we travel to North Carolina. We will be on a get away until November 15th. So I will not be writing on my blog much until we get back.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me today to die to self. Help me enjoy your fellowship and I pray that this will be a time of resting and drawing closer to you as we enjoy the mountains and time with old friends. I love you Lord. You are Wonderful. Protect today as we travel. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Crucified With Christ
Job 28; Job 29; Galatians 1; Galatians 2
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Galatians 2:20-21
20 I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. 21 I do not set aside the grace of God, for if righteousness could be gained through the law, Christ died for nothing!"
Observation
Do I act like I have been crucified? Or do I still want things my way thinking only of me and mine.
We are to be a living sacrifice so that means it is a daily death to self.
Application
Today I want to live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.
May Kathy see more of Christ today in my life as we travel to North Carolina. We will be on a get away until November 15th. So I will not be writing on my blog much until we get back.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me today to die to self. Help me enjoy your fellowship and I pray that this will be a time of resting and drawing closer to you as we enjoy the mountains and time with old friends. I love you Lord. You are Wonderful. Protect today as we travel. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Sunday, November 04, 2007
Pleasing The Crowd
Job 26; Job 27; Mark 15; Mark 16
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Scripture
Mark 15
15 Wanting to satisfy the crowd, Pilate released Barabbas to them. He had Jesus flogged, and handed him over to be crucified.
Observation
The temptation for a leader to do things that will please the crowd is huge. Those who speak every Sunday run the danger of telling people what they want to hear and not what they need to hear. Pilate knew that Jesus was not guilty of the crimes for which he was being accused, but he wasn’t strong enough to do the right thing. This morning I will be preaching on a very tough subject, “What we eat and what is eating you”. I will be talking about taking care of our bodies because our bodies matter to God.
Application
May I remember today that it is my responsibility to please an audience of One!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me not do things to impress people. Help me to be real, to be genuine. Help me not dodge difficult subjects, but help me deal with them in a way that brings you Glory and Honor. Help me today as I preach your word that the message would be clear. I pray for someone to trust you for salvation today. Do a mighty work in our church today. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Job 26; Job 27; Mark 15; Mark 16
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Mark 15
15 Wanting to satisfy the crowd, Pilate released Barabbas to them. He had Jesus flogged, and handed him over to be crucified.
Observation
The temptation for a leader to do things that will please the crowd is huge. Those who speak every Sunday run the danger of telling people what they want to hear and not what they need to hear. Pilate knew that Jesus was not guilty of the crimes for which he was being accused, but he wasn’t strong enough to do the right thing. This morning I will be preaching on a very tough subject, “What we eat and what is eating you”. I will be talking about taking care of our bodies because our bodies matter to God.
Application
May I remember today that it is my responsibility to please an audience of One!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me not do things to impress people. Help me to be real, to be genuine. Help me not dodge difficult subjects, but help me deal with them in a way that brings you Glory and Honor. Help me today as I preach your word that the message would be clear. I pray for someone to trust you for salvation today. Do a mighty work in our church today. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Saturday, November 03, 2007
Following Jesus at a distance
Job 25; Mark 13; Mark 14
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Scripture
Mark 14
54 Peter followed him at a distance, right into the courtyard of the high priest.
Peter Disowns Jesus
66 While Peter was below in the courtyard, one of the servant girls of the high priest came by. 67 When she saw Peter warming himself, she looked closely at him.
"You also were with that Nazarene, Jesus," she said.
68 But he denied it. "I don't know or understand what you're talking about," he said, and went out into the entryway.
69 When the servant girl saw him there, she said again to those standing around, "This fellow is one of them." 70 Again he denied it.
After a little while, those standing near said to Peter, "Surely you are one of them, for you are a Galilean."
71 He began to call down curses on himself, and he swore to them, "I don't know this man you're talking about."
72 Immediately the rooster crowed the second time. Then Peter remembered the word Jesus had spoken to him: "Before the rooster crows twice you will disown me three times." And he broke down and wept.
Observation
Too easily it seems that we move from the excitement of Jesus’ call, “Follow me and I will make you fishers of men”, to a life of following Christ but following him at a distance. I watch men who were once on fire for the Lord now seemingly following Jesus at a distance.
Disowning Christ, following him at a distance is no way to live your life. How did Peter change? The same way you and I have to change when we find ourselves at a distance from Christ we need to do as Peter did in brokenness, in tears, and in repentance. Are you following Jesus today…but at a distance?
Application
It is my desire to follow the Lord closely and do his will.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, today I give you 100% of my life. Search me oh God and show me anything in my life that does not please you so I can confess it. I don’t want anything coming between us. I don’t want to follow you at a distance. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Job 25; Mark 13; Mark 14
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Mark 14
54 Peter followed him at a distance, right into the courtyard of the high priest.
Peter Disowns Jesus
66 While Peter was below in the courtyard, one of the servant girls of the high priest came by. 67 When she saw Peter warming himself, she looked closely at him.
"You also were with that Nazarene, Jesus," she said.
68 But he denied it. "I don't know or understand what you're talking about," he said, and went out into the entryway.
69 When the servant girl saw him there, she said again to those standing around, "This fellow is one of them." 70 Again he denied it.
After a little while, those standing near said to Peter, "Surely you are one of them, for you are a Galilean."
71 He began to call down curses on himself, and he swore to them, "I don't know this man you're talking about."
72 Immediately the rooster crowed the second time. Then Peter remembered the word Jesus had spoken to him: "Before the rooster crows twice you will disown me three times." And he broke down and wept.
Observation
Too easily it seems that we move from the excitement of Jesus’ call, “Follow me and I will make you fishers of men”, to a life of following Christ but following him at a distance. I watch men who were once on fire for the Lord now seemingly following Jesus at a distance.
Disowning Christ, following him at a distance is no way to live your life. How did Peter change? The same way you and I have to change when we find ourselves at a distance from Christ we need to do as Peter did in brokenness, in tears, and in repentance. Are you following Jesus today…but at a distance?
Application
It is my desire to follow the Lord closely and do his will.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, today I give you 100% of my life. Search me oh God and show me anything in my life that does not please you so I can confess it. I don’t want anything coming between us. I don’t want to follow you at a distance. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Friday, November 02, 2007
What is Going On At His House?
Job 23; Job 24; Mark 11; Mark 12
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Scripture
Jesus Clears the Temple
Mark 11
12 The next day as they were leaving Bethany, Jesus was hungry. 13 Seeing in the distance a fig tree in leaf, he went to find out if it had any fruit. When he reached it, he found nothing but leaves, because it was not the season for figs. 14 Then he said to the tree, "May no one ever eat fruit from you again." And his disciples heard him say it.
15 On reaching Jerusalem, Jesus entered the temple area and began driving out those who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the benches of those selling doves, 16 and would not allow anyone to carry merchandise through the temple courts. 17 And as he taught them, he said, "Is it not written:
" 'My house will be called
a house of prayer for all nations’ But you have made it 'a den of robbers.'"
18 The chief priests and the teachers of the law heard this and began looking for a way to kill him, for they feared him, because the whole crowd was amazed at his teaching.
19 When evening came, they went out of the city.
The Withered Fig Tree
20 In the morning, as they went along, they saw the fig tree withered from the roots. 21Peter remembered and said to Jesus, "Rabbi, look! The fig tree you cursed has withered!"
22 "Have faith in God," Jesus answered. 23 "I tell you the truth, if anyone says to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him. 24 Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. 25 And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins."
Observation
I guess I was impressed to write about this passage this morning because I am preaching a sermon this Sunday about “What you eat and what is eating you”. We are doing a sermon series of sermons dealing with Breaking Free of our hurts, hang-ups, and habits. It is interesting that we don’t hear very many sermons address the issue of food abuse these days. I know why; it is because many pastors don’t have victory in this area so they let it alone. It has been a struggle for me all of my married life and I desperately want to have victory and self control and keep my body in good shape. I am tired of diets. I am tired of gaining and losing thousands of pounds only to gain it all over again.
Maybe you are in the same boat. If you want to lose it for life like I do you might want to read some stuff on Steve Arterburn's web site. The articles can be downloaded free. I want to lose it for life, not for a few months or even a year...a life.
You might be wondering how does what I just said relate to this passage? Good question and I will be glad to try to explain. You know that our bodies are now the Temple of God, I Cor. 6:19, 2 Cor. 6:16. Jesus cleaned out the temple because it was being misused. It was being abused. It had a purpose, “'My house will be called a house of prayer for all nations’ But you have made it 'a den of robbers.” My body is the temple of God”. It has a divine purpose.
Application
I will treasure the words of his mouth more than my daily bread. Job 23:12b
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to never change the way I feel about keeping my eating under control. May I desire the words of your mouth more than my necessary food. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Job 23; Job 24; Mark 11; Mark 12
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Jesus Clears the Temple
Mark 11
12 The next day as they were leaving Bethany, Jesus was hungry. 13 Seeing in the distance a fig tree in leaf, he went to find out if it had any fruit. When he reached it, he found nothing but leaves, because it was not the season for figs. 14 Then he said to the tree, "May no one ever eat fruit from you again." And his disciples heard him say it.
15 On reaching Jerusalem, Jesus entered the temple area and began driving out those who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the benches of those selling doves, 16 and would not allow anyone to carry merchandise through the temple courts. 17 And as he taught them, he said, "Is it not written:
" 'My house will be called
a house of prayer for all nations’ But you have made it 'a den of robbers.'"
18 The chief priests and the teachers of the law heard this and began looking for a way to kill him, for they feared him, because the whole crowd was amazed at his teaching.
19 When evening came, they went out of the city.
The Withered Fig Tree
20 In the morning, as they went along, they saw the fig tree withered from the roots. 21Peter remembered and said to Jesus, "Rabbi, look! The fig tree you cursed has withered!"
22 "Have faith in God," Jesus answered. 23 "I tell you the truth, if anyone says to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him. 24 Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. 25 And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins."
Observation
I guess I was impressed to write about this passage this morning because I am preaching a sermon this Sunday about “What you eat and what is eating you”. We are doing a sermon series of sermons dealing with Breaking Free of our hurts, hang-ups, and habits. It is interesting that we don’t hear very many sermons address the issue of food abuse these days. I know why; it is because many pastors don’t have victory in this area so they let it alone. It has been a struggle for me all of my married life and I desperately want to have victory and self control and keep my body in good shape. I am tired of diets. I am tired of gaining and losing thousands of pounds only to gain it all over again.
Maybe you are in the same boat. If you want to lose it for life like I do you might want to read some stuff on Steve Arterburn's web site. The articles can be downloaded free. I want to lose it for life, not for a few months or even a year...a life.
You might be wondering how does what I just said relate to this passage? Good question and I will be glad to try to explain. You know that our bodies are now the Temple of God, I Cor. 6:19, 2 Cor. 6:16. Jesus cleaned out the temple because it was being misused. It was being abused. It had a purpose, “'My house will be called a house of prayer for all nations’ But you have made it 'a den of robbers.” My body is the temple of God”. It has a divine purpose.
Application
I will treasure the words of his mouth more than my daily bread. Job 23:12b
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to never change the way I feel about keeping my eating under control. May I desire the words of your mouth more than my necessary food. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Thursday, November 01, 2007
Possessed from Childhood
Psalm 121; Mark 9; Mark 10
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Scripture
The Healing of a Boy with an Evil Spirit
Mark 9
14 When they came to the other disciples, they saw a large crowd around them and the teachers of the law arguing with them. 15 As soon as all the people saw Jesus, they were overwhelmed with wonder and ran to greet him.
16 "What are you arguing with them about?" he asked.
17 A man in the crowd answered, "Teacher, I brought you my son, who is possessed by a spirit that has robbed him of speech. 18 Whenever it seizes him, it throws him to the ground. He foams at the mouth, gnashes his teeth and becomes rigid. I asked your disciples to drive out the spirit, but they could not."
19 "O unbelieving generation," Jesus replied, "how long shall I stay with you? How long shall I put up with you? Bring the boy to me."
20 So they brought him. When the spirit saw Jesus, it immediately threw the boy into a convulsion. He fell to the ground and rolled around, foaming at the mouth.
21 Jesus asked the boy's father, "How long has he been like this?"
"From childhood," he answered. 22 "It has often thrown him into fire or water to kill him. But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us."
23 " 'If you can'?" said Jesus. "Everything is possible for him who believes."
24 Immediately the boy's father exclaimed, "I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!"
25 When Jesus saw that a crowd was running to the scene, he rebuked the evil spirit. "You deaf and mute spirit," he said, "I command you, come out of him and never enter him again."
26 The spirit shrieked, convulsed him violently and came out. The boy looked so much like a corpse that many said, "He's dead." 27 But Jesus took him by the hand and lifted him to his feet, and he stood up.
28 After Jesus had gone indoors, his disciples asked him privately, "Why couldn't we drive it out?"
29 He replied, "This kind can come out only by prayer.
Observation
Have you ever wondered about passages like this? Demon possession of a child how can that be right? I can understand a demon possessing someone that has given his or her life over to sin and is living a life of spiritual rebellion, but a child how does that work. There is a lot that we don’t know about the principalities and powers that surround us.
I had a concerned parent tell me that their 4th grader had confided to them that he had seen a demon. He was very upset about what he saw. It had scared him. The parent of this child was already getting good counsel from a missionary couple in the school where he attended.
Evil is real. The demonic world is real. We live in a fallen world full of evil and ungodliness. We are in spiritual warfare.
Thank goodness we have a Savior that has already won the victory over Satan and all his co-workers. Greater is he that is in us than he that is in the world.
Application
I will pray for this young man that is being harassed by the demonic. I will pray for his safety.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, Lord, keep the satanic forces away from him. Give his parents wisdom in how to deal with this. Put a hedge of protection around him. You say that only by prayer can these demonic forces be dealt with and I am praying for this young man right now. You are all powerful nothing is too hard for you. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Psalm 121; Mark 9; Mark 10
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
The Healing of a Boy with an Evil Spirit
Mark 9
14 When they came to the other disciples, they saw a large crowd around them and the teachers of the law arguing with them. 15 As soon as all the people saw Jesus, they were overwhelmed with wonder and ran to greet him.
16 "What are you arguing with them about?" he asked.
17 A man in the crowd answered, "Teacher, I brought you my son, who is possessed by a spirit that has robbed him of speech. 18 Whenever it seizes him, it throws him to the ground. He foams at the mouth, gnashes his teeth and becomes rigid. I asked your disciples to drive out the spirit, but they could not."
19 "O unbelieving generation," Jesus replied, "how long shall I stay with you? How long shall I put up with you? Bring the boy to me."
20 So they brought him. When the spirit saw Jesus, it immediately threw the boy into a convulsion. He fell to the ground and rolled around, foaming at the mouth.
21 Jesus asked the boy's father, "How long has he been like this?"
"From childhood," he answered. 22 "It has often thrown him into fire or water to kill him. But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us."
23 " 'If you can'?" said Jesus. "Everything is possible for him who believes."
24 Immediately the boy's father exclaimed, "I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!"
25 When Jesus saw that a crowd was running to the scene, he rebuked the evil spirit. "You deaf and mute spirit," he said, "I command you, come out of him and never enter him again."
26 The spirit shrieked, convulsed him violently and came out. The boy looked so much like a corpse that many said, "He's dead." 27 But Jesus took him by the hand and lifted him to his feet, and he stood up.
28 After Jesus had gone indoors, his disciples asked him privately, "Why couldn't we drive it out?"
29 He replied, "This kind can come out only by prayer.
Observation
Have you ever wondered about passages like this? Demon possession of a child how can that be right? I can understand a demon possessing someone that has given his or her life over to sin and is living a life of spiritual rebellion, but a child how does that work. There is a lot that we don’t know about the principalities and powers that surround us.
I had a concerned parent tell me that their 4th grader had confided to them that he had seen a demon. He was very upset about what he saw. It had scared him. The parent of this child was already getting good counsel from a missionary couple in the school where he attended.
Evil is real. The demonic world is real. We live in a fallen world full of evil and ungodliness. We are in spiritual warfare.
Thank goodness we have a Savior that has already won the victory over Satan and all his co-workers. Greater is he that is in us than he that is in the world.
Application
I will pray for this young man that is being harassed by the demonic. I will pray for his safety.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, Lord, keep the satanic forces away from him. Give his parents wisdom in how to deal with this. Put a hedge of protection around him. You say that only by prayer can these demonic forces be dealt with and I am praying for this young man right now. You are all powerful nothing is too hard for you. Amen.
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Wednesday, October 31, 2007
How Quickly We Forget!
Job 22; Mark 7; Mark 8
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Scripture
The Yeast of the Pharisees and Herod
Mark 8
14 The disciples had forgotten to bring bread, except for one loaf they had with them in the boat. 15 "Be careful," Jesus warned them. "Watch out for the yeast of the Pharisees and that of Herod."
16 They discussed this with one another and said, "It is because we have no bread."
17 Aware of their discussion, Jesus asked them: "Why are you talking about having no bread? Do you still not see or understand? Are your hearts hardened? 18 Do you have eyes but fail to see, and ears but fail to hear? And don't you remember? 19 When I broke the five loaves for the five thousand, how many basketfuls of pieces did you pick up?"
"Twelve," they replied.
20 "And when I broke the seven loaves for the four thousand, how many basketfuls of pieces did you pick up?"
They answered, "Seven."
21 He said to them, "Do you still not understand?"
Observation
The disciples had just watched Jesus feed the 4,000 before getting in the boat with him. Jesus was taking the opportunity while they are all in the boat to teach them a spiritual truth that warned them of the false teaching of the Pharisees.
They thought that because he mentioned “yeast” in his teaching that some how he must have been using that example because they had messed up and had forgotten to bring the bread. They completely missed what he was saying.
Have you been misunderstood lately?
Does it frustrate you because folks don’t understand spiritual truths and waste energy over stuff that just doesn’t matter fussing over little things but not showing the least bit of concern about the souls of people? Did you notice that Jesus sighed deeply once in chapter 7:34 and again in chapter 8:12?
Application
What are you trying to teach me today Lord? I want to learn from you.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, open my eyes so that I can see what you want me to see. Don’t let my heart be hard and resistant to your teachings. Help me to get it. I don’t want to cause you to sigh today. May I bring you joy not sadness. Give me energy and give me the desire to do your will. You are awesome and worthy to be praised. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Job 22; Mark 7; Mark 8
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
The Yeast of the Pharisees and Herod
Mark 8
14 The disciples had forgotten to bring bread, except for one loaf they had with them in the boat. 15 "Be careful," Jesus warned them. "Watch out for the yeast of the Pharisees and that of Herod."
16 They discussed this with one another and said, "It is because we have no bread."
17 Aware of their discussion, Jesus asked them: "Why are you talking about having no bread? Do you still not see or understand? Are your hearts hardened? 18 Do you have eyes but fail to see, and ears but fail to hear? And don't you remember? 19 When I broke the five loaves for the five thousand, how many basketfuls of pieces did you pick up?"
"Twelve," they replied.
20 "And when I broke the seven loaves for the four thousand, how many basketfuls of pieces did you pick up?"
They answered, "Seven."
21 He said to them, "Do you still not understand?"
Observation
The disciples had just watched Jesus feed the 4,000 before getting in the boat with him. Jesus was taking the opportunity while they are all in the boat to teach them a spiritual truth that warned them of the false teaching of the Pharisees.
They thought that because he mentioned “yeast” in his teaching that some how he must have been using that example because they had messed up and had forgotten to bring the bread. They completely missed what he was saying.
Have you been misunderstood lately?
Does it frustrate you because folks don’t understand spiritual truths and waste energy over stuff that just doesn’t matter fussing over little things but not showing the least bit of concern about the souls of people? Did you notice that Jesus sighed deeply once in chapter 7:34 and again in chapter 8:12?
Application
What are you trying to teach me today Lord? I want to learn from you.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, open my eyes so that I can see what you want me to see. Don’t let my heart be hard and resistant to your teachings. Help me to get it. I don’t want to cause you to sigh today. May I bring you joy not sadness. Give me energy and give me the desire to do your will. You are awesome and worthy to be praised. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Do Not Be Afraid; Just Believe.
Job 21; Mark 5; Mark 6
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Scripture
Mark 5
35 While Jesus was still speaking, some men came from the house of Jairus, the synagogue ruler. "Your daughter is dead," they said. "Why bother the teacher any more?"
36 Ignoring what they said, Jesus told the synagogue ruler, "Don't be afraid; just believe."
37 He did not let anyone follow him except Peter, James and John the brother of James. 38 When they came to the home of the synagogue ruler, Jesus saw a commotion, with people crying and wailing loudly. 39 He went in and said to them, "Why all this commotion and wailing? The child is not dead but asleep." 40 But they laughed at him.
After he put them all out, he took the child's father and mother and the disciples who were with him, and went in where the child was. 41 He took her by the hand and said to her, "Talitha koum!" (which means, "Little girl, I say to you, get up!" ). 42 Immediately the girl stood up and walked around (she was twelve years old). At this they were completely astonished. 43 He gave strict orders not to let anyone know about this, and told them to give her something to eat.
Observation
Faith…is not being afraid when the situation is impossible and just believing in the Awesome Power of our Heavenly Father. Can you imagine the emotional roller coaster that Jairus was experiencing? He must have been thinking that if he could have just reached Jesus in time then his daughter could be healed. He reaches Jesus and Jesus begins to go with him, but then Jesus stops to find out who had touched him. He takes time to talk to the woman that had touched him and at that moment some men come with the news that the little girl had died. Then Jesus turns to Jairus and tells him, “Don’t be afraid; just believe.” He must have had high hopes of having Jesus heal his daughter then those hopes were dashed by the bad news that she was already dead. I don’t know how far they had to walk to reach Jairus’ daughter but these words must have been replaying over and over in his head, “Don’t be afraid; just believe.”
As we walk with Jesus there will be days when all we can do is take these words to heart, “Don’t be afraid; just believe.”
Application
When tragedy comes, “Don’t be afraid; just believe.”
Prayer
Heavenly Father, you are the Resurrection and the Life. You are the Alpha and the Omega. You are the Great Shepherd and you are the Great Physician. Teach me to walk by faith and help me to apply your words to my life. Help me not to be afraid; just believe. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Job 21; Mark 5; Mark 6
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Mark 5
35 While Jesus was still speaking, some men came from the house of Jairus, the synagogue ruler. "Your daughter is dead," they said. "Why bother the teacher any more?"
36 Ignoring what they said, Jesus told the synagogue ruler, "Don't be afraid; just believe."
37 He did not let anyone follow him except Peter, James and John the brother of James. 38 When they came to the home of the synagogue ruler, Jesus saw a commotion, with people crying and wailing loudly. 39 He went in and said to them, "Why all this commotion and wailing? The child is not dead but asleep." 40 But they laughed at him.
After he put them all out, he took the child's father and mother and the disciples who were with him, and went in where the child was. 41 He took her by the hand and said to her, "Talitha koum!" (which means, "Little girl, I say to you, get up!" ). 42 Immediately the girl stood up and walked around (she was twelve years old). At this they were completely astonished. 43 He gave strict orders not to let anyone know about this, and told them to give her something to eat.
Observation
Faith…is not being afraid when the situation is impossible and just believing in the Awesome Power of our Heavenly Father. Can you imagine the emotional roller coaster that Jairus was experiencing? He must have been thinking that if he could have just reached Jesus in time then his daughter could be healed. He reaches Jesus and Jesus begins to go with him, but then Jesus stops to find out who had touched him. He takes time to talk to the woman that had touched him and at that moment some men come with the news that the little girl had died. Then Jesus turns to Jairus and tells him, “Don’t be afraid; just believe.” He must have had high hopes of having Jesus heal his daughter then those hopes were dashed by the bad news that she was already dead. I don’t know how far they had to walk to reach Jairus’ daughter but these words must have been replaying over and over in his head, “Don’t be afraid; just believe.”
As we walk with Jesus there will be days when all we can do is take these words to heart, “Don’t be afraid; just believe.”
Application
When tragedy comes, “Don’t be afraid; just believe.”
Prayer
Heavenly Father, you are the Resurrection and the Life. You are the Alpha and the Omega. You are the Great Shepherd and you are the Great Physician. Teach me to walk by faith and help me to apply your words to my life. Help me not to be afraid; just believe. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
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