Love is...
Numbers 24; Numbers 25; Numbers 26; Numbers 27; 1 Corinthians 13
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Scripture
1 Corinthians 13
Love
1 If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal.
2 If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.
3 If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing.
4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.
5 It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.
6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
8 Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away.
9 For we know in part and we prophesy in part,
10 but when perfection comes, the imperfect disappears.
11 When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me.
12 Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.
13 And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
Observation
If I asked you to describe “love” what would you say?
Would you define love as an emotion, or as a feeling; what is love to you?
This is the love chapter of the Bible and you can’t explain God’s love any better than what is written in I Cor. 13!
The best definition that I have ever heard of God’s “Agape” Love is this: Meeting a person’s needs, their physical needs and their spiritual needs.
Agape Love is way more than a feeling; way more than romantic it is God’s love for others. When I hear from couples that are fighting it is usually because they are not putting into practice I Cor. 13! “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.”
Application
Are we putting into practice “Agape Love”? Let’s evaluate our relationships today in light of I Cor. 13!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me Agape love people today. Help me be more concerned about them than for myself. Love people through today me. Thank you that you always love me with “Agape Love”!
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Wednesday, February 28, 2007
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
God Does Have a Sense of Humor!
Numbers 21; Numbers 22; Numbers 23; Mark 6; Mark 7
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Scripture
Balaam's Donkey
Numbers 22:21-35
Balaam got up in the morning, saddled his donkey and went with the princes of Moab. 22 But God was very angry when he went, and the angel of the LORD stood in the road to oppose him. Balaam was riding on his donkey, and his two servants were with him. 23 When the donkey saw the angel of the LORD standing in the road with a drawn sword in his hand, she turned off the road into a field. Balaam beat her to get her back on the road.
24 Then the angel of the LORD stood in a narrow path between two vineyards, with walls on both sides. 25 When the donkey saw the angel of the LORD, she pressed close to the wall, crushing Balaam's foot against it. So he beat her again.
26 Then the angel of the LORD moved on ahead and stood in a narrow place where there was no room to turn, either to the right or to the left. 27 When the donkey saw the angel of the LORD, she lay down under Balaam, and he was angry and beat her with his staff. 28 Then the LORD opened the donkey's mouth, and she said to Balaam, "What have I done to you to make you beat me these three times?"
29 Balaam answered the donkey, "You have made a fool of me! If I had a sword in my hand, I would kill you right now."
30 The donkey said to Balaam, "Am I not your own donkey, which you have always ridden, to this day? Have I been in the habit of doing this to you?"
"No," he said.
31 Then the LORD opened Balaam's eyes, and he saw the angel of the LORD standing in the road with his sword drawn. So he bowed low and fell facedown.
32 The angel of the LORD asked him, "Why have you beaten your donkey these three times? I have come here to oppose you because your path is a reckless one before me. 33 The donkey saw me and turned away from me these three times. If she had not turned away, I would certainly have killed you by now, but I would have spared her."
34 Balaam said to the angel of the LORD, "I have sinned. I did not realize you were standing in the road to oppose me. Now if you are displeased, I will go back."
35 The angel of the LORD said to Balaam, "Go with the men, but speak only what I tell you." So Balaam went with the princes of Balak.
Observation
Yes animals can talk if God needs for them to and they (even a fish) can even swallow a man and keep him alive for 3 days if God needs for them to. God does have a sense of humor! Balaam has been asked to go and put a curse on the children of Israel. Balak is afraid of them and believes that if Balaam will just put a curse on them then Balak can defeat them in battle. He was going to reward Balaam handsomely for casting the curse. I don’t think Balaam had completely decided to obey God and so God used a talking donkey to make him a believer! Curses are powerful, but blessings are way more powerful. You need to pray and ask God to bless for your spouse and your children everyday.
Application
Balak knew the power of a curse, but he didn’t understand how important it was to be on God’s side to be able to receive God's blessings. Take time today to count your many blessings and pray and bless those that God puts on your heart.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to be a blessing today. Help me hear and obey your voice. Put on my heart today people that need a blessing from you. Speak to me today and guide me and help me do the things that are on your heart.
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Numbers 21; Numbers 22; Numbers 23; Mark 6; Mark 7
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Scripture
Balaam's Donkey
Numbers 22:21-35
Balaam got up in the morning, saddled his donkey and went with the princes of Moab. 22 But God was very angry when he went, and the angel of the LORD stood in the road to oppose him. Balaam was riding on his donkey, and his two servants were with him. 23 When the donkey saw the angel of the LORD standing in the road with a drawn sword in his hand, she turned off the road into a field. Balaam beat her to get her back on the road.
24 Then the angel of the LORD stood in a narrow path between two vineyards, with walls on both sides. 25 When the donkey saw the angel of the LORD, she pressed close to the wall, crushing Balaam's foot against it. So he beat her again.
26 Then the angel of the LORD moved on ahead and stood in a narrow place where there was no room to turn, either to the right or to the left. 27 When the donkey saw the angel of the LORD, she lay down under Balaam, and he was angry and beat her with his staff. 28 Then the LORD opened the donkey's mouth, and she said to Balaam, "What have I done to you to make you beat me these three times?"
29 Balaam answered the donkey, "You have made a fool of me! If I had a sword in my hand, I would kill you right now."
30 The donkey said to Balaam, "Am I not your own donkey, which you have always ridden, to this day? Have I been in the habit of doing this to you?"
"No," he said.
31 Then the LORD opened Balaam's eyes, and he saw the angel of the LORD standing in the road with his sword drawn. So he bowed low and fell facedown.
32 The angel of the LORD asked him, "Why have you beaten your donkey these three times? I have come here to oppose you because your path is a reckless one before me. 33 The donkey saw me and turned away from me these three times. If she had not turned away, I would certainly have killed you by now, but I would have spared her."
34 Balaam said to the angel of the LORD, "I have sinned. I did not realize you were standing in the road to oppose me. Now if you are displeased, I will go back."
35 The angel of the LORD said to Balaam, "Go with the men, but speak only what I tell you." So Balaam went with the princes of Balak.
Observation
Yes animals can talk if God needs for them to and they (even a fish) can even swallow a man and keep him alive for 3 days if God needs for them to. God does have a sense of humor! Balaam has been asked to go and put a curse on the children of Israel. Balak is afraid of them and believes that if Balaam will just put a curse on them then Balak can defeat them in battle. He was going to reward Balaam handsomely for casting the curse. I don’t think Balaam had completely decided to obey God and so God used a talking donkey to make him a believer! Curses are powerful, but blessings are way more powerful. You need to pray and ask God to bless for your spouse and your children everyday.
Application
Balak knew the power of a curse, but he didn’t understand how important it was to be on God’s side to be able to receive God's blessings. Take time today to count your many blessings and pray and bless those that God puts on your heart.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to be a blessing today. Help me hear and obey your voice. Put on my heart today people that need a blessing from you. Speak to me today and guide me and help me do the things that are on your heart.
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Monday, February 26, 2007
Don’t Be Afraid!
Numbers 19; Numbers 20; Psalm 28; Mark 5
Scripture
Mark 5:36 “Ignoring what they said, Jesus told the synagogue ruler, "Don't be afraid; just believe."
Observation
The little girl had already died and Jesus told her dad not to be afraid; just believe! With Jesus on our side there is always “Hope”. Some things seem hopeless, but for a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ there is always “Hope”. Maybe it is someone in your family that is sick, maybe it is your finances, maybe it is a relationship that needs to be mended, remember the words of Jesus, “don’t be afraid; just believe!”
Application
Without faith it is impossible to please Him! What is bringing fear to my life today? Where do I just need to just believe and not be afraid?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to walk by faith today and not by sight.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Numbers 19; Numbers 20; Psalm 28; Mark 5
Scripture
Mark 5:36 “Ignoring what they said, Jesus told the synagogue ruler, "Don't be afraid; just believe."
Observation
The little girl had already died and Jesus told her dad not to be afraid; just believe! With Jesus on our side there is always “Hope”. Some things seem hopeless, but for a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ there is always “Hope”. Maybe it is someone in your family that is sick, maybe it is your finances, maybe it is a relationship that needs to be mended, remember the words of Jesus, “don’t be afraid; just believe!”
Application
Without faith it is impossible to please Him! What is bringing fear to my life today? Where do I just need to just believe and not be afraid?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to walk by faith today and not by sight.
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Saturday, February 24, 2007
A Secret to Leadership!
Numbers 14; Numbers 15; Numbers 16; Mark 3
Scripture
Numbers 14:5 “Then Moses and Aaron fell facedown in front of the whole Israelite assembly gathered there.”
Observation
Did you read Numbers 12:3 “Now Moses was a very humble man, more humble than anyone else on the face of the earth.” Moses falling facedown before God doesn’t just happen one time for one person, it happens over and over again.
He was more humble than anyone else on the face of the earth think about that!
When God wanted to destroy all of Israel, Moses fell face down. When Miriam and Aaron rebelled against Moses, Moses ended up crying out to God for God to heal Miriam. When others led a rebellion against Moses the first thing Moses did was fall facedown before God. I think that Moses is a pretty good role model for any leader that is seeking to walk with the Lord.
Application
There is no leadership that is without opposition, but when people oppose us we need to fall facedown before the Lord. Eph. 6:12 “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for the stories of Moses and Joshua and the wilderness experience of the children of Israel. Help me be like Moses and Joshua or Caleb and not like those that died in the wilderness! Help me to be bold and yet humble! Give me your message for your people. May lives be changed through its power.
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Numbers 14; Numbers 15; Numbers 16; Mark 3
Scripture
Numbers 14:5 “Then Moses and Aaron fell facedown in front of the whole Israelite assembly gathered there.”
Observation
Did you read Numbers 12:3 “Now Moses was a very humble man, more humble than anyone else on the face of the earth.” Moses falling facedown before God doesn’t just happen one time for one person, it happens over and over again.
He was more humble than anyone else on the face of the earth think about that!
When God wanted to destroy all of Israel, Moses fell face down. When Miriam and Aaron rebelled against Moses, Moses ended up crying out to God for God to heal Miriam. When others led a rebellion against Moses the first thing Moses did was fall facedown before God. I think that Moses is a pretty good role model for any leader that is seeking to walk with the Lord.
Application
There is no leadership that is without opposition, but when people oppose us we need to fall facedown before the Lord. Eph. 6:12 “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for the stories of Moses and Joshua and the wilderness experience of the children of Israel. Help me be like Moses and Joshua or Caleb and not like those that died in the wilderness! Help me to be bold and yet humble! Give me your message for your people. May lives be changed through its power.
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Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Hard Hearts!
Numbers 8; Numbers 9; Acts 28
Scripture
Acts 28:26-27
26" 'Go to this people and say,
"You will be ever hearing but never understanding;
you will be ever seeing but never perceiving."
27 For this people's heart has become calloused;
they hardly hear with their ears,
and they have closed their eyes.
Otherwise they might see with their eyes,
hear with their ears,
understand with their hearts
and turn, and I would heal them.
Observation
Some people just don’t get it do they! They hear the Gospel but they don’t really hear it. It seems to go in one ear and right out the other. Some of these people are people that are very close to us. Maybe you have a spouse, or a child, or a mom or dad, maybe a cousin, or a neighbor or co-worker that is like that!
What do you do?
For me, I am praying and asking God to soften their hearts and I am asking Him to help them hear the Gospel and understand. Don’t give up! Keep praying for them.
What else can you do?
I believe that we are to pray for them and live out the Christian life so that they may see Christ in us. When we have done that then we know that everything else is up to the Lord.
Application
Pray today for someone that doesn’t seem to hear the Gospel. How can you demonstrate God’s love to them?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, there are people that I continue to pray for that don’t seem to care about the Gospel message. Soften their hearts Father and bring them to a place of understanding. Help me to live out the Christian life in a way that touches them. Show me what I need to do to help them come to you. Thank you for the power of the Gospel!
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Numbers 8; Numbers 9; Acts 28
Scripture
Acts 28:26-27
26" 'Go to this people and say,
"You will be ever hearing but never understanding;
you will be ever seeing but never perceiving."
27 For this people's heart has become calloused;
they hardly hear with their ears,
and they have closed their eyes.
Otherwise they might see with their eyes,
hear with their ears,
understand with their hearts
and turn, and I would heal them.
Observation
Some people just don’t get it do they! They hear the Gospel but they don’t really hear it. It seems to go in one ear and right out the other. Some of these people are people that are very close to us. Maybe you have a spouse, or a child, or a mom or dad, maybe a cousin, or a neighbor or co-worker that is like that!
What do you do?
For me, I am praying and asking God to soften their hearts and I am asking Him to help them hear the Gospel and understand. Don’t give up! Keep praying for them.
What else can you do?
I believe that we are to pray for them and live out the Christian life so that they may see Christ in us. When we have done that then we know that everything else is up to the Lord.
Application
Pray today for someone that doesn’t seem to hear the Gospel. How can you demonstrate God’s love to them?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, there are people that I continue to pray for that don’t seem to care about the Gospel message. Soften their hearts Father and bring them to a place of understanding. Help me to live out the Christian life in a way that touches them. Show me what I need to do to help them come to you. Thank you for the power of the Gospel!
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Tuesday, February 20, 2007
I Have Everything I Need!
Numbers 7; Psalm 23; Acts 27
Scripture
Psalm 23:1 “The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.”
Observation
Because the Lord is my Shepherd, I have everything I need! In Acts 27 I read this morning that Paul was on a ship loaded with prisoners and soldiers (276). The ship was in a terrible storm and was about to run a ground and be broken apart. They had spent 14 days riding out this intense storm.
This is what Paul said to the men on the ship, “But now I urge you to keep up your courage, because not one of you will be lost; only the ship will be destroyed. 23 Last night an angel of the God whose I am and whom I serve stood beside me 24 and said, 'Do not be afraid, Paul. You must stand trial before Caesar; and God has graciously given you the lives of all who sail with you.' 25 So keep up your courage, men, for I have faith in God that it will happen just as he told me. 26 Nevertheless, we must run aground on some island."
Did you catch what Paul said, “Last night an angel of the God whose I am”! Wow! The Lord is my Shepherd I have everything I need.”
Application
Because the Lord is “my Shepherd” there is not one thing I lack. When the storms of life come He will supply my every need!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for being my Shepherd and thank you for allowing me to be one of your sheep. Paul knew that you would keep him safe in the midst of the storm and I know that you will keep me safe too.
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Numbers 7; Psalm 23; Acts 27
Scripture
Psalm 23:1 “The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.”
Observation
Because the Lord is my Shepherd, I have everything I need! In Acts 27 I read this morning that Paul was on a ship loaded with prisoners and soldiers (276). The ship was in a terrible storm and was about to run a ground and be broken apart. They had spent 14 days riding out this intense storm.
This is what Paul said to the men on the ship, “But now I urge you to keep up your courage, because not one of you will be lost; only the ship will be destroyed. 23 Last night an angel of the God whose I am and whom I serve stood beside me 24 and said, 'Do not be afraid, Paul. You must stand trial before Caesar; and God has graciously given you the lives of all who sail with you.' 25 So keep up your courage, men, for I have faith in God that it will happen just as he told me. 26 Nevertheless, we must run aground on some island."
Did you catch what Paul said, “Last night an angel of the God whose I am”! Wow! The Lord is my Shepherd I have everything I need.”
Application
Because the Lord is “my Shepherd” there is not one thing I lack. When the storms of life come He will supply my every need!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for being my Shepherd and thank you for allowing me to be one of your sheep. Paul knew that you would keep him safe in the midst of the storm and I know that you will keep me safe too.
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Monday, February 19, 2007
Importance of a Blessing!
Numbers 5; Numbers 6; Psalm 22; Acts 26
Scripture
The Priestly Blessing
Numbers 6:22-26
22 The LORD said to Moses, 23 "Tell Aaron and his sons, 'This is how you are to bless the Israelites. Say to them:
24 " ' "The LORD bless you
and keep you;
25 the LORD make his face shine upon you
and be gracious to you;
26 the LORD turn his face toward you
and give you peace." '
Observation
In Scripture, you will find that when someone blesses another person God honors that blessing. It is amazing! I was challenged about two years ago to pray a blessing for Kathy everyday as I gave her my traditional at the door good-bye kiss. Since that time, I have tried to do that everyday and it has made a tremendous difference in me. Giving your wife a kiss before leaving the house is very important, but I would say that just as important as the kiss is voicing to God a blessing for her. You can do that with your eyes wide open. It doesn’t matter to God.
What should you say? Sometimes I simply say, “Lord, bless Kathy today.” Sometimes I say, “Lord, Make your Face shine on Kathy today.” You could pray, “Lord, give her energy, give her your desires, give her boldness, give her strength, meet her needs, use her in the life of someone etc. And watch God respond in your wife’s life!
Application
If you have never prayed a blessing for your wife why not start today! If you are reading this and you are a wife, why not print this out and leave it where your husband might read it! Praying a blessing for your children is also very important as they are growing up and even as adults.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, bless Kathy today. Fill her with your joy. Meet the needs of her life today. Help her be a blessing to someone else and give her strength to do all that you want her to do today. Thank you for giving her to me as my wife. You have blessed me with a wonderful gift and a tremendous wife.
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Numbers 5; Numbers 6; Psalm 22; Acts 26
Scripture
The Priestly Blessing
Numbers 6:22-26
22 The LORD said to Moses, 23 "Tell Aaron and his sons, 'This is how you are to bless the Israelites. Say to them:
24 " ' "The LORD bless you
and keep you;
25 the LORD make his face shine upon you
and be gracious to you;
26 the LORD turn his face toward you
and give you peace." '
Observation
In Scripture, you will find that when someone blesses another person God honors that blessing. It is amazing! I was challenged about two years ago to pray a blessing for Kathy everyday as I gave her my traditional at the door good-bye kiss. Since that time, I have tried to do that everyday and it has made a tremendous difference in me. Giving your wife a kiss before leaving the house is very important, but I would say that just as important as the kiss is voicing to God a blessing for her. You can do that with your eyes wide open. It doesn’t matter to God.
What should you say? Sometimes I simply say, “Lord, bless Kathy today.” Sometimes I say, “Lord, Make your Face shine on Kathy today.” You could pray, “Lord, give her energy, give her your desires, give her boldness, give her strength, meet her needs, use her in the life of someone etc. And watch God respond in your wife’s life!
Application
If you have never prayed a blessing for your wife why not start today! If you are reading this and you are a wife, why not print this out and leave it where your husband might read it! Praying a blessing for your children is also very important as they are growing up and even as adults.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, bless Kathy today. Fill her with your joy. Meet the needs of her life today. Help her be a blessing to someone else and give her strength to do all that you want her to do today. Thank you for giving her to me as my wife. You have blessed me with a wonderful gift and a tremendous wife.
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Saturday, February 17, 2007
Lost? Let Me Show You the WAY!
Numbers 1; Numbers 2; Acts 24
Scripture
Acts 24:14 “However, I admit that I worship the God of our fathers as a follower of the Way, which they call a sect.”
Observation
John 14:6 Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. When Paul said that he was a follower of the WAY, he was saying that he was a Christ-Follower! Jesus is the only way to Heaven. He is the only way to the Father. Yes, narrow is the Way because it is through Him and through Him alone. There is no other Way.
Application
I have heard people say, that all religions lead to God. Sorry Charlie, there is only one way to God and that is through a personal faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. People need to hear that and that is what we must share.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for providing a “Way” for me to have a relationship with you. Thank you for saving me. Help me share the Good News with someone today!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Numbers 1; Numbers 2; Acts 24
Scripture
Acts 24:14 “However, I admit that I worship the God of our fathers as a follower of the Way, which they call a sect.”
Observation
John 14:6 Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. When Paul said that he was a follower of the WAY, he was saying that he was a Christ-Follower! Jesus is the only way to Heaven. He is the only way to the Father. Yes, narrow is the Way because it is through Him and through Him alone. There is no other Way.
Application
I have heard people say, that all religions lead to God. Sorry Charlie, there is only one way to God and that is through a personal faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. People need to hear that and that is what we must share.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for providing a “Way” for me to have a relationship with you. Thank you for saving me. Help me share the Good News with someone today!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Thursday, February 15, 2007
Test Me, O LORD, and Try Me!
Leviticus 25; Psalm 25; Psalm 26; Acts 22
Scripture
Psalm 26:2 “Test me, O LORD, and try me, examine my heart and my mind;”
Observation
David told the Lord to test Him and try Him. He told the Lord to examine his heart and mind. There was a time when God closely examined David and David’s heart wasn’t right. He committed adultery and then he murdered to cover up his actions. God tested and tried David’s heart and in Psalm 51 we hear David crying out to God, “Hide your face from my sins and blot out all my iniquity. Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.”
Application
God is always ready to hear our prayers and cleanse us of all unrighteousness. He is always ready to create in us a pure heart and renew a steadfast spirit within us. Let’s ask Him today to cleanse us of any unrighteousness and let’s ask Him to renew a steadfast spirit within us.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, create in me a pure heart and renew your steadfast spirit within me. Show me any sin that I need to confess. Test me, O LORD, and try me, examine my heart and my mind. Give me wisdom to lead today and give me your ideas and may your desires be in my heart and mind.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Leviticus 25; Psalm 25; Psalm 26; Acts 22
Scripture
Psalm 26:2 “Test me, O LORD, and try me, examine my heart and my mind;”
Observation
David told the Lord to test Him and try Him. He told the Lord to examine his heart and mind. There was a time when God closely examined David and David’s heart wasn’t right. He committed adultery and then he murdered to cover up his actions. God tested and tried David’s heart and in Psalm 51 we hear David crying out to God, “Hide your face from my sins and blot out all my iniquity. Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.”
Application
God is always ready to hear our prayers and cleanse us of all unrighteousness. He is always ready to create in us a pure heart and renew a steadfast spirit within us. Let’s ask Him today to cleanse us of any unrighteousness and let’s ask Him to renew a steadfast spirit within us.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, create in me a pure heart and renew your steadfast spirit within me. Show me any sin that I need to confess. Test me, O LORD, and try me, examine my heart and my mind. Give me wisdom to lead today and give me your ideas and may your desires be in my heart and mind.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
Who is The King of Glory?
Leviticus 23; Leviticus 24; Psalm 24; Acts 21
Scripture
Psalm 24
Of David. A psalm.
1 The earth is the LORD's, and everything in it, he world, and all who live in it;
2 for he founded it upon the seas and established it upon the waters.
Observation
We need to be reminded that nothing is ours and everything is His! He is the King of Glory! The LORD strong and mighty, the LORD mighty in battle. He is the Great Creator God and He owns it all.
Application
Is there anything that I am holding onto as my own?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, You are the King of Glory, the Lord mighty in battle, and the Lord strong and mighty. Everything that I have is yours. If I am holding onto something to tightly please show me today so that I can give it back to you.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Leviticus 23; Leviticus 24; Psalm 24; Acts 21
Scripture
Psalm 24
Of David. A psalm.
1 The earth is the LORD's, and everything in it, he world, and all who live in it;
2 for he founded it upon the seas and established it upon the waters.
Observation
We need to be reminded that nothing is ours and everything is His! He is the King of Glory! The LORD strong and mighty, the LORD mighty in battle. He is the Great Creator God and He owns it all.
Application
Is there anything that I am holding onto as my own?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, You are the King of Glory, the Lord mighty in battle, and the Lord strong and mighty. Everything that I have is yours. If I am holding onto something to tightly please show me today so that I can give it back to you.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
If Only I May Finish The Race!
Leviticus 20; Leviticus 21; Leviticus 22; Acts 20
Scripture
Acts 20: 24b
… “if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace.”
Observation
Starting something is a very good thing. I watch people start attending church and they start out strong. I watch some people get involved in a particular ministry and they start out strong. Starting is important, but God is concerned with us finishing well. When my life is over and I am ready for my “dirt nap” (that is a James Hartley expression!) I want to be able to say, “I finished the race”. How about you?
Application
Don’t drop out of the race. Don’t quit the ministry that you started. Don’t stop attending church. Finish well!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for allowing us the opportunity to be challenged in scripture with the life of Paul. What an example to follow! Help me Lord to finish well. Put the right desires in my heart and give me the energy that I need to run the race. Bring people into my life that will help me run the race! You are worthy to be praised.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Leviticus 20; Leviticus 21; Leviticus 22; Acts 20
Scripture
Acts 20: 24b
… “if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace.”
Observation
Starting something is a very good thing. I watch people start attending church and they start out strong. I watch some people get involved in a particular ministry and they start out strong. Starting is important, but God is concerned with us finishing well. When my life is over and I am ready for my “dirt nap” (that is a James Hartley expression!) I want to be able to say, “I finished the race”. How about you?
Application
Don’t drop out of the race. Don’t quit the ministry that you started. Don’t stop attending church. Finish well!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for allowing us the opportunity to be challenged in scripture with the life of Paul. What an example to follow! Help me Lord to finish well. Put the right desires in my heart and give me the energy that I need to run the race. Bring people into my life that will help me run the race! You are worthy to be praised.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Monday, February 12, 2007
But I Trust In…?
Leviticus 18; Leviticus 19; Psalm 13; Acts 19
Scripture
Psalm 13:5-6
5 But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation.
6 I will sing to the LORD, for he has been good to me.
Observation
Most of David’s life was spent running and hiding from enemies, and through all of that he learned in whom he could really trust. God became his hiding place! He trusted in God’s unfailing love and sang about it!
Application
What am I placing my trust in today? Do you have a song that you are singing to the Lord today?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for your unfailing love. My heart like David’s rejoices in your salvation. I will sing to you today because you have been so good to me!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Leviticus 18; Leviticus 19; Psalm 13; Acts 19
Scripture
Psalm 13:5-6
5 But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation.
6 I will sing to the LORD, for he has been good to me.
Observation
Most of David’s life was spent running and hiding from enemies, and through all of that he learned in whom he could really trust. God became his hiding place! He trusted in God’s unfailing love and sang about it!
Application
What am I placing my trust in today? Do you have a song that you are singing to the Lord today?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for your unfailing love. My heart like David’s rejoices in your salvation. I will sing to you today because you have been so good to me!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Sunday, February 11, 2007
Women and Leadership!
Leviticus 15; Leviticus 16; Leviticus 17; Acts 18
Scripture
Priscilla, Aquila and Apollos
Acts 18:18-28
18 “Paul stayed on in Corinth for some time. Then he left the brothers and sailed for Syria, accompanied by Priscilla and Aquila. Before he sailed, he had his hair cut off at Cenchrea because of a vow he had taken. 19 They arrived at Ephesus, where Paul left Priscilla and Aquila. He himself went into the synagogue and reasoned with the Jews. 20 When they asked him to spend more time with them, he declined. 21 But as he left, he promised, "I will come back if it is God's will." Then he set sail from Ephesus. 22 When he landed at Caesarea, he went up and greeted the church and then went down to Antioch.
23 After spending some time in Antioch, Paul set out from there and traveled from place to place throughout the region of Galatia and Phrygia, strengthening all the disciples.
24 M eanwhile a Jew named Apollos, a native of Alexandria, came to Ephesus. He was a learned man, with a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures. 25 He had been instructed in the way of the Lord, and he spoke with great fervor and taught about Jesus accurately, though he knew only the baptism of John. 26 He began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they invited him to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately.
27 When Apollos wanted to go to Achaia, the brothers encouraged him and wrote to the disciples there to welcome him. On arriving, he was a great help to those who by grace had believed. 28 For he vigorously refuted the Jews in public debate, proving from the Scriptures that Jesus was the Christ.”
Observation
Women play a very important role in the church today and have always played an important role since the ministry of Jesus. There are a few but very strong leaders in our convention today that say that women cannot lead. I disagree. I agree with those leaders when it comes to a woman being a senior pastor of a church. But I believe that as long as a woman is under the authority of a man she can serve in our churches in just about any capacity (other than senior pastor). Priscilla was a leader along with her husband Aquila in the early church. It is interesting that her name is always mentioned first when encountered in scripture. Paul and Barnabas were Barnabas and Paul until Paul took the lead position on the mission team. It is at least interesting that she is mentioned first and not her husband.
Application
Men need to step up and take their places of leadership in the church, but we should never look down on a woman who is serving in the area where God has placed her.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to do more to fire up our men to lead and help me see the leadership potential in every person whether man or woman and help me to disciple more of them for leadership.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Leviticus 15; Leviticus 16; Leviticus 17; Acts 18
Scripture
Priscilla, Aquila and Apollos
Acts 18:18-28
18 “Paul stayed on in Corinth for some time. Then he left the brothers and sailed for Syria, accompanied by Priscilla and Aquila. Before he sailed, he had his hair cut off at Cenchrea because of a vow he had taken. 19 They arrived at Ephesus, where Paul left Priscilla and Aquila. He himself went into the synagogue and reasoned with the Jews. 20 When they asked him to spend more time with them, he declined. 21 But as he left, he promised, "I will come back if it is God's will." Then he set sail from Ephesus. 22 When he landed at Caesarea, he went up and greeted the church and then went down to Antioch.
23 After spending some time in Antioch, Paul set out from there and traveled from place to place throughout the region of Galatia and Phrygia, strengthening all the disciples.
24 M eanwhile a Jew named Apollos, a native of Alexandria, came to Ephesus. He was a learned man, with a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures. 25 He had been instructed in the way of the Lord, and he spoke with great fervor and taught about Jesus accurately, though he knew only the baptism of John. 26 He began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they invited him to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately.
27 When Apollos wanted to go to Achaia, the brothers encouraged him and wrote to the disciples there to welcome him. On arriving, he was a great help to those who by grace had believed. 28 For he vigorously refuted the Jews in public debate, proving from the Scriptures that Jesus was the Christ.”
Observation
Women play a very important role in the church today and have always played an important role since the ministry of Jesus. There are a few but very strong leaders in our convention today that say that women cannot lead. I disagree. I agree with those leaders when it comes to a woman being a senior pastor of a church. But I believe that as long as a woman is under the authority of a man she can serve in our churches in just about any capacity (other than senior pastor). Priscilla was a leader along with her husband Aquila in the early church. It is interesting that her name is always mentioned first when encountered in scripture. Paul and Barnabas were Barnabas and Paul until Paul took the lead position on the mission team. It is at least interesting that she is mentioned first and not her husband.
Application
Men need to step up and take their places of leadership in the church, but we should never look down on a woman who is serving in the area where God has placed her.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to do more to fire up our men to lead and help me see the leadership potential in every person whether man or woman and help me to disciple more of them for leadership.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Saturday, February 10, 2007
God is Constantly at Work to Bring Men to Himself!
Leviticus 13; Leviticus 14; Acts 17
Scripture
Acts 17:24-28
"The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by hands. 25 And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything, because he himself gives all men life and breath and everything else. 26 From one man he made every nation of men, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he determined the times set for them and the exact places where they should live. 27 God did this so that men would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from each one of us. 28 'For in him we live and move and have our being.' As some of your own poets have said, 'We are his offspring.'
Observation
In this passage we find that God has determined when and where each of should live. I am so glad that it was in God’s plan for me to be born in Tampa, Florida where I had the opportunity to grow up and meet a girl in high school named Kathy Bearden. God planned the whole thing. I was born at just the right time and in just the right place to be able to meet my future wife. God used that young woman at just the right time in my life to bring me to Himself. Wow! God is an on-time God!
Application
Just as God worked in my life using other people I am confident that He will do the same thing in the lives of my grown children, my grandchildren, and others that I want to see in a right relationship with Him.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for letting me be born in Tampa, Florida. Where I could meet Kathy and through her and her church (Spencer Memorial) have the privilege of personally knowing You. Thank you…thank you…thank you!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Leviticus 13; Leviticus 14; Acts 17
Scripture
Acts 17:24-28
"The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by hands. 25 And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything, because he himself gives all men life and breath and everything else. 26 From one man he made every nation of men, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he determined the times set for them and the exact places where they should live. 27 God did this so that men would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from each one of us. 28 'For in him we live and move and have our being.' As some of your own poets have said, 'We are his offspring.'
Observation
In this passage we find that God has determined when and where each of should live. I am so glad that it was in God’s plan for me to be born in Tampa, Florida where I had the opportunity to grow up and meet a girl in high school named Kathy Bearden. God planned the whole thing. I was born at just the right time and in just the right place to be able to meet my future wife. God used that young woman at just the right time in my life to bring me to Himself. Wow! God is an on-time God!
Application
Just as God worked in my life using other people I am confident that He will do the same thing in the lives of my grown children, my grandchildren, and others that I want to see in a right relationship with Him.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for letting me be born in Tampa, Florida. Where I could meet Kathy and through her and her church (Spencer Memorial) have the privilege of personally knowing You. Thank you…thank you…thank you!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Wednesday, February 07, 2007
Crowds Change So Quickly!
Leviticus 4; Leviticus 5; Leviticus 6; Acts 14
Scripture
In Lystra and Derbe
Acts 14:8-20
8 In Lystra there sat a man crippled in his feet, who was lame from birth and had never walked. 9 He listened to Paul as he was speaking. Paul looked directly at him, saw that he had faith to be healed 10 and called out, "Stand up on your feet!" At that, the man jumped up and began to walk.
11 When the crowd saw what Paul had done, they shouted in the Lycaonian language, "The gods have come down to us in human form!" 12 Barnabas they called Zeus, and Paul they called Hermes because he was the chief speaker. 13 The priest of Zeus, whose temple was just outside the city, brought bulls and wreaths to the city gates because he and the crowd wanted to offer sacrifices to them.
14 But when the apostles Barnabas and Paul heard of this, they tore their clothes and rushed out into the crowd, shouting: 15 "Men, why are you doing this? We too are only men, human like you. We are bringing you good news, telling you to turn from these worthless things to the living God, who made heaven and earth and sea and everything in them. 16 In the past, he let all nations go their own way. 17 Yet he has not left himself without testimony: He has shown kindness by giving you rain from heaven and crops in their seasons; he provides you with plenty of food and fills your hearts with joy." 18 Even with these words, they had difficulty keeping the crowd from sacrificing to them.
19 Then some Jews came from Antioch and Iconium and won the crowd over. They stoned Paul and dragged him outside the city, thinking he was dead. 20 But after the disciples had gathered around him, he got up and went back into the city. The next day he and Barnabas left for Derbe.
Observation
Paul and Barnabas were at the point of being worshipped as gods one minute and a few minutes later Paul was stoned and left for dead. It was the same crowd. It reminds me of the crowd that cried out “Hosanna! Hosanna! Glory to God in the highest” and then some of the same crowd watched as Jesus was nailed to the cross. So we shouldn’t depend on what the crowd says or does. We should work and serve an audience of One and if we serve Him with all of our hearts then it doesn’t matter what the crowd thinks or does.
Application
Am I pleasing my Lord and Savior with my behavior and my attitudes?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to look to you and not to people for approval. Help me to do the right thing even if doing the right thing is difficult and costly. Guide me and guard my heart. Help me not to sin against you.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Leviticus 4; Leviticus 5; Leviticus 6; Acts 14
Scripture
In Lystra and Derbe
Acts 14:8-20
8 In Lystra there sat a man crippled in his feet, who was lame from birth and had never walked. 9 He listened to Paul as he was speaking. Paul looked directly at him, saw that he had faith to be healed 10 and called out, "Stand up on your feet!" At that, the man jumped up and began to walk.
11 When the crowd saw what Paul had done, they shouted in the Lycaonian language, "The gods have come down to us in human form!" 12 Barnabas they called Zeus, and Paul they called Hermes because he was the chief speaker. 13 The priest of Zeus, whose temple was just outside the city, brought bulls and wreaths to the city gates because he and the crowd wanted to offer sacrifices to them.
14 But when the apostles Barnabas and Paul heard of this, they tore their clothes and rushed out into the crowd, shouting: 15 "Men, why are you doing this? We too are only men, human like you. We are bringing you good news, telling you to turn from these worthless things to the living God, who made heaven and earth and sea and everything in them. 16 In the past, he let all nations go their own way. 17 Yet he has not left himself without testimony: He has shown kindness by giving you rain from heaven and crops in their seasons; he provides you with plenty of food and fills your hearts with joy." 18 Even with these words, they had difficulty keeping the crowd from sacrificing to them.
19 Then some Jews came from Antioch and Iconium and won the crowd over. They stoned Paul and dragged him outside the city, thinking he was dead. 20 But after the disciples had gathered around him, he got up and went back into the city. The next day he and Barnabas left for Derbe.
Observation
Paul and Barnabas were at the point of being worshipped as gods one minute and a few minutes later Paul was stoned and left for dead. It was the same crowd. It reminds me of the crowd that cried out “Hosanna! Hosanna! Glory to God in the highest” and then some of the same crowd watched as Jesus was nailed to the cross. So we shouldn’t depend on what the crowd says or does. We should work and serve an audience of One and if we serve Him with all of our hearts then it doesn’t matter what the crowd thinks or does.
Application
Am I pleasing my Lord and Savior with my behavior and my attitudes?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to look to you and not to people for approval. Help me to do the right thing even if doing the right thing is difficult and costly. Guide me and guard my heart. Help me not to sin against you.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Tuesday, February 06, 2007
All Who Were Appointed For Eternal Life Believed!
Leviticus 1; Leviticus 2; Leviticus 3; Acts 13
Scripture
Acts 13: 48 When the Gentiles heard this, they were glad and honored the word of the Lord; and all who were appointed for eternal life believed.
Observation
If you are a Christ-Follower have you ever wondered why you have had the opportunity to become one and others haven’t? Some people reject the Good News of Jesus Christ and others die without ever hearing about Him. I don’t understand, but I am very glad that someone shared with me and I said, “YES”! I don’t deserve it, and if you are a believer in Christ you don’t deserve God’s favor either! He is a God of Wonderful Grace and Mercy.
Application
Since we don’t know who will accept Christ and who will reject Him it is our responsibility to share the Good News with everyone! Can you think of someone today that needs to hear?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for allowing me the privilege to become one of your children. Help me share my faith with others. Lead me to someone today that is open to your Gospel.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Leviticus 1; Leviticus 2; Leviticus 3; Acts 13
Scripture
Acts 13: 48 When the Gentiles heard this, they were glad and honored the word of the Lord; and all who were appointed for eternal life believed.
Observation
If you are a Christ-Follower have you ever wondered why you have had the opportunity to become one and others haven’t? Some people reject the Good News of Jesus Christ and others die without ever hearing about Him. I don’t understand, but I am very glad that someone shared with me and I said, “YES”! I don’t deserve it, and if you are a believer in Christ you don’t deserve God’s favor either! He is a God of Wonderful Grace and Mercy.
Application
Since we don’t know who will accept Christ and who will reject Him it is our responsibility to share the Good News with everyone! Can you think of someone today that needs to hear?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for allowing me the privilege to become one of your children. Help me share my faith with others. Lead me to someone today that is open to your Gospel.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Monday, February 05, 2007
When the Church Prays Look Out!
Exodus 39; Exodus 40; Psalm 15; Acts 12
Scripture
Acts 12:5 “So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him.”
Peter's Miraculous Escape From Prison
1 It was about this time that King Herod arrested some who belonged to the church, intending to persecute them. 2 He had James, the brother of John, put to death with the sword. 3 When he saw that this pleased the Jews, he proceeded to seize Peter also. This happened during the Feast of Unleavened Bread. 4 After arresting him, he put him in prison, handing him over to be guarded by four squads of four soldiers each. Herod intended to bring him out for public trial after the Passover.
5 So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him.
6 The night before Herod was to bring him to trial, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and sentries stood guard at the entrance. 7Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him up. "Quick, get up!" he said, and the chains fell off Peter's wrists.
8 Then the angel said to him, "Put on your clothes and sandals." And Peter did so. "Wrap your cloak around you and follow me," the angel told him. 9 Peter followed him out of the prison, but he had no idea that what the angel was doing was really happening; he thought he was seeing a vision. 10 They passed the first and second guards and came to the iron gate leading to the city. It opened for them by itself, and they went through it. When they had walked the length of one street, suddenly the angel left him.
11 Then Peter came to himself and said, "Now I know without a doubt that the Lord sent his angel and rescued me from Herod's clutches and from everything the Jewish people were anticipating."
12 When this had dawned on him, he went to the house of Mary the mother of John, also called Mark, where many people had gathered and were praying. 13 Peter knocked at the outer entrance, and a servant girl named Rhoda came to answer the door. 14 When she recognized Peter's voice, she was so overjoyed she ran back without opening it and exclaimed, "Peter is at the door!"
15 “You're out of your mind," they told her. When she kept insisting that it was so, they said, "It must be his angel."
16 But Peter kept on knocking, and when they opened the door and saw him, they were astonished. 17 Peter motioned with his hand for them to be quiet and described how the Lord had brought him out of prison. "Tell James and the brothers about this," he said, and then he left for another place.
18In the morning, there was no small commotion among the soldiers as to what had become of Peter. 19After Herod had a thorough search made for him and did not find him, he cross-examined the guards and ordered that they be executed.
Observation
God does have a sense of humor and we see it revealed a lot in scripture. This is one of those passages where it shows! The church is praying for Peter’s release and God sends an angel to save him. Peter goes and knocks on the door where the church is praying and when told by the servant girl that Peter was at the door knocking they told the girl that she was crazy. Finally, Peter keeps on knocking and they finally let him in! We pray sometimes and when God answers we don’t believe it. Some things don’t change do they!
Application
This past week one of the ladies in our church was scheduled for surgery to remove a lump in a breast. Just before the surgery the doctor decided to do an MRI and to everyone’s amazement the lump was gone! They went ahead and did an exploratory surgery only to find out that there was no lump and no cancer! God is so good. He answers the prayers of his saints!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, when I pray for the sick help me to realize that prayer is powerful and you love for us to pray for you. Father, remind me to pray to you about everything no matter how small. Thank you for answering my prayer to let Coach Tony Dungy win the Super Bowl. I realize that prayers were going up to you for both teams and both coaches, but thanks for letting Tony win.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Exodus 39; Exodus 40; Psalm 15; Acts 12
Scripture
Acts 12:5 “So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him.”
Peter's Miraculous Escape From Prison
1 It was about this time that King Herod arrested some who belonged to the church, intending to persecute them. 2 He had James, the brother of John, put to death with the sword. 3 When he saw that this pleased the Jews, he proceeded to seize Peter also. This happened during the Feast of Unleavened Bread. 4 After arresting him, he put him in prison, handing him over to be guarded by four squads of four soldiers each. Herod intended to bring him out for public trial after the Passover.
5 So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him.
6 The night before Herod was to bring him to trial, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and sentries stood guard at the entrance. 7Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him up. "Quick, get up!" he said, and the chains fell off Peter's wrists.
8 Then the angel said to him, "Put on your clothes and sandals." And Peter did so. "Wrap your cloak around you and follow me," the angel told him. 9 Peter followed him out of the prison, but he had no idea that what the angel was doing was really happening; he thought he was seeing a vision. 10 They passed the first and second guards and came to the iron gate leading to the city. It opened for them by itself, and they went through it. When they had walked the length of one street, suddenly the angel left him.
11 Then Peter came to himself and said, "Now I know without a doubt that the Lord sent his angel and rescued me from Herod's clutches and from everything the Jewish people were anticipating."
12 When this had dawned on him, he went to the house of Mary the mother of John, also called Mark, where many people had gathered and were praying. 13 Peter knocked at the outer entrance, and a servant girl named Rhoda came to answer the door. 14 When she recognized Peter's voice, she was so overjoyed she ran back without opening it and exclaimed, "Peter is at the door!"
15 “You're out of your mind," they told her. When she kept insisting that it was so, they said, "It must be his angel."
16 But Peter kept on knocking, and when they opened the door and saw him, they were astonished. 17 Peter motioned with his hand for them to be quiet and described how the Lord had brought him out of prison. "Tell James and the brothers about this," he said, and then he left for another place.
18In the morning, there was no small commotion among the soldiers as to what had become of Peter. 19After Herod had a thorough search made for him and did not find him, he cross-examined the guards and ordered that they be executed.
Observation
God does have a sense of humor and we see it revealed a lot in scripture. This is one of those passages where it shows! The church is praying for Peter’s release and God sends an angel to save him. Peter goes and knocks on the door where the church is praying and when told by the servant girl that Peter was at the door knocking they told the girl that she was crazy. Finally, Peter keeps on knocking and they finally let him in! We pray sometimes and when God answers we don’t believe it. Some things don’t change do they!
Application
This past week one of the ladies in our church was scheduled for surgery to remove a lump in a breast. Just before the surgery the doctor decided to do an MRI and to everyone’s amazement the lump was gone! They went ahead and did an exploratory surgery only to find out that there was no lump and no cancer! God is so good. He answers the prayers of his saints!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, when I pray for the sick help me to realize that prayer is powerful and you love for us to pray for you. Father, remind me to pray to you about everything no matter how small. Thank you for answering my prayer to let Coach Tony Dungy win the Super Bowl. I realize that prayers were going up to you for both teams and both coaches, but thanks for letting Tony win.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
When the Church Prays Look Out!
Exodus 39; Exodus 40; Psalm 15; Acts 12
Scripture
Acts 12:5 “So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him.”
Peter's Miraculous Escape From Prison
1 It was about this time that King Herod arrested some who belonged to the church, intending to persecute them. 2 He had James, the brother of John, put to death with the sword. 3 When he saw that this pleased the Jews, he proceeded to seize Peter also. This happened during the Feast of Unleavened Bread. 4 After arresting him, he put him in prison, handing him over to be guarded by four squads of four soldiers each. Herod intended to bring him out for public trial after the Passover.
5 So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him.
6 The night before Herod was to bring him to trial, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and sentries stood guard at the entrance. 7Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him up. "Quick, get up!" he said, and the chains fell off Peter's wrists.
8 Then the angel said to him, "Put on your clothes and sandals." And Peter did so. "Wrap your cloak around you and follow me," the angel told him. 9 Peter followed him out of the prison, but he had no idea that what the angel was doing was really happening; he thought he was seeing a vision. 10 They passed the first and second guards and came to the iron gate leading to the city. It opened for them by itself, and they went through it. When they had walked the length of one street, suddenly the angel left him.
11 Then Peter came to himself and said, "Now I know without a doubt that the Lord sent his angel and rescued me from Herod's clutches and from everything the Jewish people were anticipating."
12 When this had dawned on him, he went to the house of Mary the mother of John, also called Mark, where many people had gathered and were praying. 13 Peter knocked at the outer entrance, and a servant girl named Rhoda came to answer the door. 14 When she recognized Peter's voice, she was so overjoyed she ran back without opening it and exclaimed, "Peter is at the door!"
15 “You're out of your mind," they told her. When she kept insisting that it was so, they said, "It must be his angel."
16 But Peter kept on knocking, and when they opened the door and saw him, they were astonished. 17 Peter motioned with his hand for them to be quiet and described how the Lord had brought him out of prison. "Tell James and the brothers about this," he said, and then he left for another place.
18In the morning, there was no small commotion among the soldiers as to what had become of Peter. 19After Herod had a thorough search made for him and did not find him, he cross-examined the guards and ordered that they be executed.
Observation
God does have a sense of humor and we see it revealed a lot in scripture. This is one of those passages where it shows! The church is praying for Peter’s release and God sends an angel to save him. Peter goes and knocks on the door where the church is praying and when told by the servant girl that Peter was at the door knocking they told the girl that she was crazy. Finally, Peter keeps on knocking and they finally let him in! We pray sometimes and when God answers we don’t believe it. Some things don’t change do they!
Application
This past week one of the ladies in our church was scheduled for surgery to remove a lump in a breast. Just before the surgery the doctor decided to do an MRI and to everyone’s amazement the lump was gone! They went ahead and did an exploratory surgery only to find out that there was no lump and no cancer! God is so good. He answers the prayers of his saints!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, when I pray for the sick help me to realize that prayer is powerful and you love for us to pray for you. Father, remind me to pray to you about everything no matter how small. Thank you for answering my prayer to let Coach Tony Dungy win the Super Bowl. I realize that prayers were going up to you for both teams and both coaches, but thanks for letting Tony win.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Exodus 39; Exodus 40; Psalm 15; Acts 12
Scripture
Acts 12:5 “So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him.”
Peter's Miraculous Escape From Prison
1 It was about this time that King Herod arrested some who belonged to the church, intending to persecute them. 2 He had James, the brother of John, put to death with the sword. 3 When he saw that this pleased the Jews, he proceeded to seize Peter also. This happened during the Feast of Unleavened Bread. 4 After arresting him, he put him in prison, handing him over to be guarded by four squads of four soldiers each. Herod intended to bring him out for public trial after the Passover.
5 So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him.
6 The night before Herod was to bring him to trial, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and sentries stood guard at the entrance. 7Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him up. "Quick, get up!" he said, and the chains fell off Peter's wrists.
8 Then the angel said to him, "Put on your clothes and sandals." And Peter did so. "Wrap your cloak around you and follow me," the angel told him. 9 Peter followed him out of the prison, but he had no idea that what the angel was doing was really happening; he thought he was seeing a vision. 10 They passed the first and second guards and came to the iron gate leading to the city. It opened for them by itself, and they went through it. When they had walked the length of one street, suddenly the angel left him.
11 Then Peter came to himself and said, "Now I know without a doubt that the Lord sent his angel and rescued me from Herod's clutches and from everything the Jewish people were anticipating."
12 When this had dawned on him, he went to the house of Mary the mother of John, also called Mark, where many people had gathered and were praying. 13 Peter knocked at the outer entrance, and a servant girl named Rhoda came to answer the door. 14 When she recognized Peter's voice, she was so overjoyed she ran back without opening it and exclaimed, "Peter is at the door!"
15 “You're out of your mind," they told her. When she kept insisting that it was so, they said, "It must be his angel."
16 But Peter kept on knocking, and when they opened the door and saw him, they were astonished. 17 Peter motioned with his hand for them to be quiet and described how the Lord had brought him out of prison. "Tell James and the brothers about this," he said, and then he left for another place.
18In the morning, there was no small commotion among the soldiers as to what had become of Peter. 19After Herod had a thorough search made for him and did not find him, he cross-examined the guards and ordered that they be executed.
Observation
God does have a sense of humor and we see it revealed a lot in scripture. This is one of those passages where it shows! The church is praying for Peter’s release and God sends an angel to save him. Peter goes and knocks on the door where the church is praying and when told by the servant girl that Peter was at the door knocking they told the girl that she was crazy. Finally, Peter keeps on knocking and they finally let him in! We pray sometimes and when God answers we don’t believe it. Some things don’t change do they!
Application
This past week one of the ladies in our church was scheduled for surgery to remove a lump in a breast. Just before the surgery the doctor decided to do an MRI and to everyone’s amazement the lump was gone! They went ahead and did an exploratory surgery only to find out that there was no lump and no cancer! God is so good. He answers the prayers of his saints!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, when I pray for the sick help me to realize that prayer is powerful and you love for us to pray for you. Father, remind me to pray to you about everything no matter how small. Thank you for answering my prayer to let Coach Tony Dungy win the Super Bowl. I realize that prayers were going up to you for both teams and both coaches, but thanks for letting Tony win.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Saturday, February 03, 2007
Test Me!
Exodus 35; Exodus 36; Acts 10
Scripture
Exodus 36:6 “Then Moses gave an order and they sent this word throughout the camp: "No man or woman is to make anything else as an offering for the sanctuary." And so the people were restrained from bringing more, 7 because what they already had was more than enough to do all the work.”
Observation
What if we had to tell the people in our church to stop giving because we had too much? Wouldn’t that be wonderful! God says to test Him when it comes to giving.
In Malachi 3:10 God says, “Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this," says the Lord Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it.”
You can’t out give God and He says just try me and see if I don’t throw open the floodgates of heaven if you do!
Application
When we are encouraged to give and we give with a willing heart then God opens up Heaven and showers us with blessings.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me model giving to our people and help me to encourage them in their giving. I know that I can’t out give you. It is all yours anyway!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Exodus 35; Exodus 36; Acts 10
Scripture
Exodus 36:6 “Then Moses gave an order and they sent this word throughout the camp: "No man or woman is to make anything else as an offering for the sanctuary." And so the people were restrained from bringing more, 7 because what they already had was more than enough to do all the work.”
Observation
What if we had to tell the people in our church to stop giving because we had too much? Wouldn’t that be wonderful! God says to test Him when it comes to giving.
In Malachi 3:10 God says, “Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this," says the Lord Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it.”
You can’t out give God and He says just try me and see if I don’t throw open the floodgates of heaven if you do!
Application
When we are encouraged to give and we give with a willing heart then God opens up Heaven and showers us with blessings.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me model giving to our people and help me to encourage them in their giving. I know that I can’t out give you. It is all yours anyway!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Friday, February 02, 2007
Face to Face, as a Man Speaks With His Friend!
Exodus 33; Exodus 34; Psalm 16; Acts 9
Scripture
Exodus 33:11 “The LORD would speak to Moses face to face, as a man speaks with his friend. Then Moses would return to the camp, but his young aide Joshua son of Nun did not leave the tent.”
Observation
I love this passage don’t you! To think of being in Moses’ place and having the opportunity to talk to the Lord the way Moses did. I talk to my Heavenly Father as a Friend too! I am not scared of Him, but I do Respect Him.
Application
Today, as I talk to my Heavenly Father I will talk to Him as a Friend. It is through the blood of Christ and what Christ did on the cross for me that gives you and me that privilege. Do you have an intimate relationship with God today? You can! Click here and find out how!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for being my Friend. Thank you for the privilege of calling you “Father”. I pray that others might know you like I do and I pray that you would use me to help them know You as a Friend.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Exodus 33; Exodus 34; Psalm 16; Acts 9
Scripture
Exodus 33:11 “The LORD would speak to Moses face to face, as a man speaks with his friend. Then Moses would return to the camp, but his young aide Joshua son of Nun did not leave the tent.”
Observation
I love this passage don’t you! To think of being in Moses’ place and having the opportunity to talk to the Lord the way Moses did. I talk to my Heavenly Father as a Friend too! I am not scared of Him, but I do Respect Him.
Application
Today, as I talk to my Heavenly Father I will talk to Him as a Friend. It is through the blood of Christ and what Christ did on the cross for me that gives you and me that privilege. Do you have an intimate relationship with God today? You can! Click here and find out how!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for being my Friend. Thank you for the privilege of calling you “Father”. I pray that others might know you like I do and I pray that you would use me to help them know You as a Friend.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
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