Do You Think Saul Remembered This Day?
Exodus 28; Exodus 29; Acts 7
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Scripture
The Stoning of Stephen
54 When they heard this, they were furious and gnashed their teeth at him. 55 But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. 56 "Look," he said, "I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God."
57 At this they covered their ears and, yelling at the top of their voices, they all rushed at him, 58 dragged him out of the city and began to stone him. Meanwhile, the witnesses laid their clothes at the feet of a young man named Saul.
59 While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." 60 Then he fell on his knees and cried out, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them." When he had said this, he fell asleep.
Observation
I believe that when the Lord called out to Saul on the road to Damascus and then blinded Saul I can’t help but think that Saul saw the stoning of Stephen over and over in his mind. I am sure that the words that Stephen prayed, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit" and "Lord, do not hold this sin against them" were being played over and over in Saul’s mind. And how about the words of Stephen when he cried out, "Look, I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God." I am sure that Saul remembered those words too when He heard God’s voice that day.
Paul was prepared for the Damascus road experience and was ready to be saved in part because of the way Stephen met his death. I don’t think a day went by where Paul did not relive the death of Stephen. When Paul was stoned almost to death I can’t help but think that he thought about Stephen as each stone struck him.
God uses all kinds of experiences both good and bad to bring people to salvation.
Application
I can’t save people from all their bad circumstances because it is in those bad circumstances they have the opportunity to look up and see Jesus.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I pray this morning for some people that are in crisis. Some of them are in financial trouble and others are in martial difficulties and I can’t fix their problems. I pray that You walk with them through these tough times. I pray that they would fully commit their lives to You so that You could strengthen them and help them. You alone are their salvation. Help them to trust in You.
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Saturday, January 31, 2009
Friday, January 30, 2009
Face of An Angel
Exodus 25; Exodus 26; Exodus 27; Acts 6
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Scripture
Acts 6
15 At this point everyone in the high council stared at Stephen, because his face became as bright as an angel’s.
Observation
You would think that as they all stared at Stephen as they saw that his face became as bright as an angels that with the fact of all the signs and wonders that he had done that maybe just maybe they would realize that what he was doing was from God but they didn’t care. This high council was not interested in the things of God.
The Sunday School teacher that was instrumental in my coming to faith is Christ had a face like Stephens. There was just something about him that was special. I didn’t realize it at the time, but it came from the fact that he spent so much time with Jesus … and it showed in his countenance. I can remember how that when he taught I didn’t want to miss the next Sunday. Kathy and I will be forever indebted to this teacher and his wife: Charles and Patsy Hartwig. Kathy had the same experience sitting under the teaching of Charles' wife Patsy.
Application
It is my desire to be so much like Jesus that it shows.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, Stephen didn’t get to serve you very long on this earth before he was stoned, but his life continues to touch lives through Your word. May Your face shine on me in a way that causes others to see Jesus in me. I pray today for Charles and Patsy Hartwig. I pray that you give them good health. I pray that you bless them and that You smile on them and I pray that Your face shines on them. Thank you for allowing Kathy and I the privilege of being in their Sunday School class. Continue to use them to further Your kingdom at First Baptist Church of Jacksonville.
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Exodus 25; Exodus 26; Exodus 27; Acts 6
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Scripture
Acts 6
15 At this point everyone in the high council stared at Stephen, because his face became as bright as an angel’s.
Observation
You would think that as they all stared at Stephen as they saw that his face became as bright as an angels that with the fact of all the signs and wonders that he had done that maybe just maybe they would realize that what he was doing was from God but they didn’t care. This high council was not interested in the things of God.
The Sunday School teacher that was instrumental in my coming to faith is Christ had a face like Stephens. There was just something about him that was special. I didn’t realize it at the time, but it came from the fact that he spent so much time with Jesus … and it showed in his countenance. I can remember how that when he taught I didn’t want to miss the next Sunday. Kathy and I will be forever indebted to this teacher and his wife: Charles and Patsy Hartwig. Kathy had the same experience sitting under the teaching of Charles' wife Patsy.
Application
It is my desire to be so much like Jesus that it shows.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, Stephen didn’t get to serve you very long on this earth before he was stoned, but his life continues to touch lives through Your word. May Your face shine on me in a way that causes others to see Jesus in me. I pray today for Charles and Patsy Hartwig. I pray that you give them good health. I pray that you bless them and that You smile on them and I pray that Your face shines on them. Thank you for allowing Kathy and I the privilege of being in their Sunday School class. Continue to use them to further Your kingdom at First Baptist Church of Jacksonville.
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Thursday, January 29, 2009
"We must obey God rather than men!”
Exodus 23; Exodus 24; Psalm 14; Acts 5
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Scripture
Acts 5
29 Peter and the other apostles replied: "We must obey God rather than men!
Observation
When our government does things that are completely contrary to the Word of God like encouraging women to kill their unborn children we must decide who we will obey God or men. I believe that Christians will be forced to decide whether to obey God or men on many more issues in the future.
If you and I decide to do what is right then we have this promise from the Lord found in 2 Chronicles 16:9, “For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him.”
Application
I will obey God rather than man.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we live in an evil world. I know that you are very aware of that fact. Help us protect the unborn and the elderly from those who do not value life. I pray for godly leadership that will stand up against the forces of evil and lead our country in the right direction. I pray that our President will have a change of heart about the abortion issue. Give him wisdom to lead our country according to Your Word.
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Exodus 23; Exodus 24; Psalm 14; Acts 5
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Scripture
Acts 5
29 Peter and the other apostles replied: "We must obey God rather than men!
Observation
When our government does things that are completely contrary to the Word of God like encouraging women to kill their unborn children we must decide who we will obey God or men. I believe that Christians will be forced to decide whether to obey God or men on many more issues in the future.
If you and I decide to do what is right then we have this promise from the Lord found in 2 Chronicles 16:9, “For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him.”
Application
I will obey God rather than man.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we live in an evil world. I know that you are very aware of that fact. Help us protect the unborn and the elderly from those who do not value life. I pray for godly leadership that will stand up against the forces of evil and lead our country in the right direction. I pray that our President will have a change of heart about the abortion issue. Give him wisdom to lead our country according to Your Word.
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Wednesday, January 28, 2009
People Need The Lord
Exodus 21; Exodus 22; Psalm 12; Acts 4
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Scripture
Acts 4
12 Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved."
Observation
Kathy just told me last night about a couple in California. This couple had lost their jobs and had become so desperate that murdered their five children and then both committed suicide. They were going to lose everything and were not going to be able to take care of their children (all under the age of 8 years old). They did not want someone else to have their children so they killed them and then killed themselves. We live in a crazy messed up world/country. They were hopeless.
“Salvation (and hope) is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.”
People need Jesus. People need the Lord.
Application
Godlessness breeds hopelessness. People need the Lord. We have the Hope that people need. His Name is Jesus!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, Jesus is the name that is above all other names. Salvation is found in Him and in Him alone. He is the only way to salvation. I pray that our church will continue to be a light for those living in darkness and in hopelessness. I pray that You would continue to use our people to touch the lives of those around them. Thank you that I don’t lack one single thing to be able to live the life that You have called me to live. Your Holy Spirit that lives in me is all I need!
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Exodus 21; Exodus 22; Psalm 12; Acts 4
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Scripture
Acts 4
12 Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved."
Observation
Kathy just told me last night about a couple in California. This couple had lost their jobs and had become so desperate that murdered their five children and then both committed suicide. They were going to lose everything and were not going to be able to take care of their children (all under the age of 8 years old). They did not want someone else to have their children so they killed them and then killed themselves. We live in a crazy messed up world/country. They were hopeless.
“Salvation (and hope) is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.”
People need Jesus. People need the Lord.
Application
Godlessness breeds hopelessness. People need the Lord. We have the Hope that people need. His Name is Jesus!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, Jesus is the name that is above all other names. Salvation is found in Him and in Him alone. He is the only way to salvation. I pray that our church will continue to be a light for those living in darkness and in hopelessness. I pray that You would continue to use our people to touch the lives of those around them. Thank you that I don’t lack one single thing to be able to live the life that You have called me to live. Your Holy Spirit that lives in me is all I need!
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Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Wipe Out!
Exodus 17; Exodus 18; Exodus 19; Exodus 20; Acts 3
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Scripture
Acts 3
19 Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord,
Observation
When we hear of mud slides happening in a certain place we sometimes hear that an entire village, or community has been wiped out. We understand the phrase “wiped out” when we hear of the terrible power of a tsunami, or a category five hurricane, or things wiped out that were in the path of a tornado. Or we understand the phrase “wiped out” in a positive way when we talk about wiping out a terrible disease like polio, or aids, or cholera.
Our sins can be wiped out too, but there is only One way to wipe them out, “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord”. There is salvation in no one else! There is no other name in all of heaven for people to call on to save them." (Acts 4:12 NLT) Only Jesus can wipe out our sins.
Application
I will use the word; “repent” with someone today to help them understand God’s love for them.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for wiping out my sins. Help me to help others grasp this truth. Peter and John met a crippled man that day and they helped him be set free from his sin. What happened in his heart was more important than his physical healing. Give me the boldness of Peter and John today. Completely fill me and control me with Your Holy Spirit.
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Exodus 17; Exodus 18; Exodus 19; Exodus 20; Acts 3
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Scripture
Acts 3
19 Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord,
Observation
When we hear of mud slides happening in a certain place we sometimes hear that an entire village, or community has been wiped out. We understand the phrase “wiped out” when we hear of the terrible power of a tsunami, or a category five hurricane, or things wiped out that were in the path of a tornado. Or we understand the phrase “wiped out” in a positive way when we talk about wiping out a terrible disease like polio, or aids, or cholera.
Our sins can be wiped out too, but there is only One way to wipe them out, “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord”. There is salvation in no one else! There is no other name in all of heaven for people to call on to save them." (Acts 4:12 NLT) Only Jesus can wipe out our sins.
Application
I will use the word; “repent” with someone today to help them understand God’s love for them.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for wiping out my sins. Help me to help others grasp this truth. Peter and John met a crippled man that day and they helped him be set free from his sin. What happened in his heart was more important than his physical healing. Give me the boldness of Peter and John today. Completely fill me and control me with Your Holy Spirit.
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Monday, January 26, 2009
“Save yourselves from this corrupt generation."
Exodus 14; Exodus 16; Acts 2
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Scripture
Acts 2
36 "Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ."
37 When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, "Brothers, what shall we do?"
38 Peter replied, "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call."
40 With many other words he warned them; and he pleaded with them, "Save yourselves from this corrupt generation." 41 Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.
42 They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43 Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles.
44 All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need. 46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.
Observation
“Save yourselves from this corrupt generation." Peter’s words sure seem right for us today! Our government is on a self-destruct path of corruption. Our country’s leadership is a reflection of the moral condition of our country.
When the people heard Peter’s sermon they cried out, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter’s response to them is what our nation should do right now, "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call."
Three thousand people were saved that day! They took serious the words of Peter and their lives were forever changed. We need more voices crying out to our generation to repent. The word “repent” means to change direction and we definitely need to change the direction of where our country is heading! It is the most positive word in the dictionary!
When you get frustrated with corrupt political leadership you need to remember that they mirror who we are as a country. There is hope for our country and that hope is wrapped up in one word and in one Person: that one word is “Repent” and the one Person is “Jesus”.
Application
I will point people to Jesus.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, corruption always happens when people turn their backs on You. I pray for revival. I pray that our country would turn from sin and self and turn back to You. I pray that You raise up godly leaders to take our country through these rough times. I pray for our President that You would give Him wisdom and I pray that You help him make decisions based on Your moral values. I pray that You change his heart about abortion.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Exodus 14; Exodus 16; Acts 2
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Scripture
Acts 2
36 "Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ."
37 When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, "Brothers, what shall we do?"
38 Peter replied, "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call."
40 With many other words he warned them; and he pleaded with them, "Save yourselves from this corrupt generation." 41 Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.
42 They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43 Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles.
44 All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need. 46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.
Observation
“Save yourselves from this corrupt generation." Peter’s words sure seem right for us today! Our government is on a self-destruct path of corruption. Our country’s leadership is a reflection of the moral condition of our country.
When the people heard Peter’s sermon they cried out, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter’s response to them is what our nation should do right now, "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call."
Three thousand people were saved that day! They took serious the words of Peter and their lives were forever changed. We need more voices crying out to our generation to repent. The word “repent” means to change direction and we definitely need to change the direction of where our country is heading! It is the most positive word in the dictionary!
When you get frustrated with corrupt political leadership you need to remember that they mirror who we are as a country. There is hope for our country and that hope is wrapped up in one word and in one Person: that one word is “Repent” and the one Person is “Jesus”.
Application
I will point people to Jesus.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, corruption always happens when people turn their backs on You. I pray for revival. I pray that our country would turn from sin and self and turn back to You. I pray that You raise up godly leaders to take our country through these rough times. I pray for our President that You would give Him wisdom and I pray that You help him make decisions based on Your moral values. I pray that You change his heart about abortion.
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Sunday, January 25, 2009
Our Passover Lamb
Exodus 12; Exodus 13; Psalm 21; Acts 1
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Scripture
Exodus 12
The Passover
1 The LORD said to Moses and Aaron in Egypt, 2 "This month is to be for you the first month, the first month of your year. 3 Tell the whole community of Israel that on the tenth day of this month each man is to take a lamb for his family, one for each household. 4 If any household is too small for a whole lamb, they must share one with their nearest neighbor, having taken into account the number of people there are. You are to determine the amount of lamb needed in accordance with what each person will eat. 5 The animals you choose must be year-old males without defect, and you may take them from the sheep or the goats. 6 Take care of them until the fourteenth day of the month, when all the people of the community of Israel must slaughter them at twilight.
7 Then they are to take some of the blood and put it on the sides and tops of the doorframes of the houses where they eat the lambs. 8 That same night they are to eat the meat roasted over the fire, along with bitter herbs, and bread made without yeast. 9 Do not eat the meat raw or cooked in water, but roast it over the fire—head, legs and inner parts. 10 Do not leave any of it till morning; if some is left till morning, you must burn it. 11 This is how you are to eat it: with your cloak tucked into your belt, your sandals on your feet and your staff in your hand. Eat it in haste; it is the LORD's Passover.
12 "On that same night I will pass through Egypt and strike down every firstborn—both men and animals—and I will bring judgment on all the gods of Egypt. I am the LORD. 13 The blood will be a sign for you on the houses where you are; and when I see the blood, I will pass over you. No destructive plague will touch you when I strike Egypt.
14 "This is a day you are to commemorate; for the generations to come you shall celebrate it as a festival to the LORD -a lasting ordinance. 15 For seven days you are to eat bread made without yeast. On the first day remove the yeast from your houses, for whoever eats anything with yeast in it from the first day through the seventh must be cut off from Israel. 16 On the first day hold a sacred assembly, and another one on the seventh day. Do no work at all on these days, except to prepare food for everyone to eat—that is all you may do.
17 "Celebrate the Feast of Unleavened Bread, because it was on this very day that I brought your divisions out of Egypt. Celebrate this day as a lasting ordinance for the generations to come. 18 In the first month you are to eat bread made without yeast, from the evening of the fourteenth day until the evening of the twenty-first day. 19 For seven days no yeast is to be found in your houses. And whoever eats anything with yeast in it must be cut off from the community of Israel, whether he is an alien or native-born. 20 Eat nothing made with yeast. Wherever you live, you must eat unleavened bread."
21 Then Moses summoned all the elders of Israel and said to them, "Go at once and select the animals for your families and slaughter the Passover lamb. 22 Take a bunch of hyssop, dip it into the blood in the basin and put some of the blood on the top and on both sides of the doorframe. Not one of you shall go out the door of his house until morning. 23 When the LORD goes through the land to strike down the Egyptians, he will see the blood on the top and sides of the doorframe and will pass over that doorway, and he will not permit the destroyer to enter your houses and strike you down.
Observation
Our Passover Lamb has been slain. His name is Jesus. His blood was shed for you and for me. The nation of Israel had to trust the Lord and they applied the blood of the Passover lamb to the doorframes of their homes in obedience. Jesus poured out His blood for us but we must apply it to our lives. We must say in our hearts, “Yes, Jesus died for me and I trust Him for my salvation. Forgive me of my sins. Come into my life as my Lord and my Savior.”
Is He your Passover Lamb? Have you been saved by the blood of the Lamb?
Application
I will celebrate the fact that I am saved by the Passover Lamb. His name is Jesus!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for allowing me the opportunity to trust in Jesus. Thank you that I don’t have to die in my sins. The blood of Jesus has paid the penalty for my sins. I don’t deserve heaven, but thank you for paying my way. I pray for Trevor Thomas and his wife Sawyer as they come to lead us in worship today. Bless them Father as they serve You.
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Exodus 12; Exodus 13; Psalm 21; Acts 1
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Scripture
Exodus 12
The Passover
1 The LORD said to Moses and Aaron in Egypt, 2 "This month is to be for you the first month, the first month of your year. 3 Tell the whole community of Israel that on the tenth day of this month each man is to take a lamb for his family, one for each household. 4 If any household is too small for a whole lamb, they must share one with their nearest neighbor, having taken into account the number of people there are. You are to determine the amount of lamb needed in accordance with what each person will eat. 5 The animals you choose must be year-old males without defect, and you may take them from the sheep or the goats. 6 Take care of them until the fourteenth day of the month, when all the people of the community of Israel must slaughter them at twilight.
7 Then they are to take some of the blood and put it on the sides and tops of the doorframes of the houses where they eat the lambs. 8 That same night they are to eat the meat roasted over the fire, along with bitter herbs, and bread made without yeast. 9 Do not eat the meat raw or cooked in water, but roast it over the fire—head, legs and inner parts. 10 Do not leave any of it till morning; if some is left till morning, you must burn it. 11 This is how you are to eat it: with your cloak tucked into your belt, your sandals on your feet and your staff in your hand. Eat it in haste; it is the LORD's Passover.
12 "On that same night I will pass through Egypt and strike down every firstborn—both men and animals—and I will bring judgment on all the gods of Egypt. I am the LORD. 13 The blood will be a sign for you on the houses where you are; and when I see the blood, I will pass over you. No destructive plague will touch you when I strike Egypt.
14 "This is a day you are to commemorate; for the generations to come you shall celebrate it as a festival to the LORD -a lasting ordinance. 15 For seven days you are to eat bread made without yeast. On the first day remove the yeast from your houses, for whoever eats anything with yeast in it from the first day through the seventh must be cut off from Israel. 16 On the first day hold a sacred assembly, and another one on the seventh day. Do no work at all on these days, except to prepare food for everyone to eat—that is all you may do.
17 "Celebrate the Feast of Unleavened Bread, because it was on this very day that I brought your divisions out of Egypt. Celebrate this day as a lasting ordinance for the generations to come. 18 In the first month you are to eat bread made without yeast, from the evening of the fourteenth day until the evening of the twenty-first day. 19 For seven days no yeast is to be found in your houses. And whoever eats anything with yeast in it must be cut off from the community of Israel, whether he is an alien or native-born. 20 Eat nothing made with yeast. Wherever you live, you must eat unleavened bread."
21 Then Moses summoned all the elders of Israel and said to them, "Go at once and select the animals for your families and slaughter the Passover lamb. 22 Take a bunch of hyssop, dip it into the blood in the basin and put some of the blood on the top and on both sides of the doorframe. Not one of you shall go out the door of his house until morning. 23 When the LORD goes through the land to strike down the Egyptians, he will see the blood on the top and sides of the doorframe and will pass over that doorway, and he will not permit the destroyer to enter your houses and strike you down.
Observation
Our Passover Lamb has been slain. His name is Jesus. His blood was shed for you and for me. The nation of Israel had to trust the Lord and they applied the blood of the Passover lamb to the doorframes of their homes in obedience. Jesus poured out His blood for us but we must apply it to our lives. We must say in our hearts, “Yes, Jesus died for me and I trust Him for my salvation. Forgive me of my sins. Come into my life as my Lord and my Savior.”
Is He your Passover Lamb? Have you been saved by the blood of the Lamb?
Application
I will celebrate the fact that I am saved by the Passover Lamb. His name is Jesus!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for allowing me the opportunity to trust in Jesus. Thank you that I don’t have to die in my sins. The blood of Jesus has paid the penalty for my sins. I don’t deserve heaven, but thank you for paying my way. I pray for Trevor Thomas and his wife Sawyer as they come to lead us in worship today. Bless them Father as they serve You.
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Saturday, January 24, 2009
How to Pray For Those Around You
Exodus 9; Exodus 10; Exodus 11; Luke 24
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Scripture
Luke 24
36 While they were still talking about this, Jesus himself stood among them and said to them, "Peace be with you."
37 They were startled and frightened, thinking they saw a ghost. 38 He said to them, "Why are you troubled, and why do doubts rise in your minds? 39 Look at my hands and my feet. It is I myself! Touch me and see; a ghost does not have flesh and bones, as you see I have."
40 When he had said this, he showed them his hands and feet. 41 And while they still did not believe it because of joy and amazement, he asked them, "Do you have anything here to eat?" 42 They gave him a piece of broiled fish, 43 and he took it and ate it in their presence.
44 He said to them, "This is what I told you while I was still with you: Everything must be fulfilled that is written about me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms."
45 Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures. 46 He told them, "This is what is written: The Christ will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, 47 and repentance and forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. 48 You are witnesses of these things. 49 I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high."
Observation
How would you liked to have been the disciples that Jesus talked with walking down the road to Emmaus? Wow! Take time to read this entire chapter so you will know what I am talking about! In Exodus we are reading how God hardened Pharaoh’s heart and in Luke we are reading how Jesus opened the minds of the disciples.
Paul prays in Ephesians 1:15-21 that the believer’s hearts may be enlightened,
“For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers.
I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better.
I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe.
That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come.”
Application
I will pray for God to open the eyes of the hearts of my family and friends that still do not know Him or that may know Him but are walking in disobedience.
And for those that do know Him I will pray that the Lord gives them the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that they may know him better.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I pray and ask You to open the eyes of the hearts of my family and friends that still do not know You. And for those that do know You I ask that You give them the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that they may know You better.
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Exodus 9; Exodus 10; Exodus 11; Luke 24
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Scripture
Luke 24
36 While they were still talking about this, Jesus himself stood among them and said to them, "Peace be with you."
37 They were startled and frightened, thinking they saw a ghost. 38 He said to them, "Why are you troubled, and why do doubts rise in your minds? 39 Look at my hands and my feet. It is I myself! Touch me and see; a ghost does not have flesh and bones, as you see I have."
40 When he had said this, he showed them his hands and feet. 41 And while they still did not believe it because of joy and amazement, he asked them, "Do you have anything here to eat?" 42 They gave him a piece of broiled fish, 43 and he took it and ate it in their presence.
44 He said to them, "This is what I told you while I was still with you: Everything must be fulfilled that is written about me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms."
45 Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures. 46 He told them, "This is what is written: The Christ will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, 47 and repentance and forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. 48 You are witnesses of these things. 49 I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high."
Observation
How would you liked to have been the disciples that Jesus talked with walking down the road to Emmaus? Wow! Take time to read this entire chapter so you will know what I am talking about! In Exodus we are reading how God hardened Pharaoh’s heart and in Luke we are reading how Jesus opened the minds of the disciples.
Paul prays in Ephesians 1:15-21 that the believer’s hearts may be enlightened,
“For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers.
I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better.
I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe.
That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come.”
Application
I will pray for God to open the eyes of the hearts of my family and friends that still do not know Him or that may know Him but are walking in disobedience.
And for those that do know Him I will pray that the Lord gives them the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that they may know him better.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I pray and ask You to open the eyes of the hearts of my family and friends that still do not know You. And for those that do know You I ask that You give them the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that they may know You better.
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Friday, January 23, 2009
Heart Condition … Who Can Change It?
Exodus 6; Exodus 7; Exodus 8; Luke 23
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Scripture
Exodus 7
1 Then the LORD said to Moses, “Pay close attention to this. I will make you seem like God to Pharaoh, and your brother, Aaron, will be your prophet. 2 Tell Aaron everything I command you, and Aaron must command Pharaoh to let the people of Israel leave his country. 3 But I will make Pharaoh’s heart stubborn so I can multiply my miraculous signs and wonders in the land of Egypt. 4 Even then Pharaoh will refuse to listen to you. So I will bring down my fist on Egypt. Then I will rescue my forces—my people, the Israelites—from the land of Egypt with great acts of judgment. 5 When I raise my powerful hand and bring out the Israelites, the Egyptians will know that I am the LORD.”
6 So Moses and Aaron did just as the LORD had commanded them. 7 Moses was eighty years old, and Aaron was eighty-three when they made their demands to Pharaoh.
8 Then the LORD said to Moses and Aaron, 9 “Pharaoh will demand, ‘Show me a miracle.’ When he does this, say to Aaron, ‘Take your staff and throw it down in front of Pharaoh, and it will become a serpent.”
10 So Moses and Aaron went to Pharaoh and did what the LORD had commanded them. Aaron threw down his staff before Pharaoh and his officials, and it became a serpent! 11 Then Pharaoh called in his own wise men and sorcerers, and these Egyptian magicians did the same thing with their magic. 12 They threw down their staffs, which also became serpents! But then Aaron’s staff swallowed up their staffs. 13 Pharaoh’s heart, however, remained hard. He still refused to listen, just as the LORD had predicted.
Observation
God can change the condition of someone’s heart I know because he changed mine. And since He softened and completely changed my heart and my life I know that He can do the same for those I pray for.
Who is on your list that you would like to see saved? Who needs a changed heart? I believe that someone prayed for me and that is why I am saved. I believe it was my grandmother’s prayers for me that caused God to soften my heart. I could be wrong but if it wasn’t her it was someone else. It could have been my R.A. counselor at the church I went to with my grandmother. He kept up with me through my entire childhood even though I had stopped going to R.A.’s when my grandmother became too sick to go to church. I remember him dropping by to say, “hi”. I know that I grew up in the thick of sin and my heart was hard, but at 19 years old I wanted a relationship with God, I wanted to turn from sin and I remember turning my life over to Jesus. He completely changed my heart; He completely changed my life!
God it did that for me He can do that for those close to me that at this moment have hard hearts and are fighting against God.
Application
I will pray for those I know who need spiritual heart surgery.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I love this story of Moses against Pharaoh and how You showed Your Mighty Power and Your Unfailing Love for Your people. I know that the story is in the Bible for me and for the rest of world that You created. I pray that You soften the hearts of those I love that seem to have their hearts so hardened against You. I know that for some reason You changed my heart and I pray that You do the same thing for them.
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Exodus 6; Exodus 7; Exodus 8; Luke 23
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Scripture
Exodus 7
1 Then the LORD said to Moses, “Pay close attention to this. I will make you seem like God to Pharaoh, and your brother, Aaron, will be your prophet. 2 Tell Aaron everything I command you, and Aaron must command Pharaoh to let the people of Israel leave his country. 3 But I will make Pharaoh’s heart stubborn so I can multiply my miraculous signs and wonders in the land of Egypt. 4 Even then Pharaoh will refuse to listen to you. So I will bring down my fist on Egypt. Then I will rescue my forces—my people, the Israelites—from the land of Egypt with great acts of judgment. 5 When I raise my powerful hand and bring out the Israelites, the Egyptians will know that I am the LORD.”
6 So Moses and Aaron did just as the LORD had commanded them. 7 Moses was eighty years old, and Aaron was eighty-three when they made their demands to Pharaoh.
8 Then the LORD said to Moses and Aaron, 9 “Pharaoh will demand, ‘Show me a miracle.’ When he does this, say to Aaron, ‘Take your staff and throw it down in front of Pharaoh, and it will become a serpent.”
10 So Moses and Aaron went to Pharaoh and did what the LORD had commanded them. Aaron threw down his staff before Pharaoh and his officials, and it became a serpent! 11 Then Pharaoh called in his own wise men and sorcerers, and these Egyptian magicians did the same thing with their magic. 12 They threw down their staffs, which also became serpents! But then Aaron’s staff swallowed up their staffs. 13 Pharaoh’s heart, however, remained hard. He still refused to listen, just as the LORD had predicted.
Observation
God can change the condition of someone’s heart I know because he changed mine. And since He softened and completely changed my heart and my life I know that He can do the same for those I pray for.
Who is on your list that you would like to see saved? Who needs a changed heart? I believe that someone prayed for me and that is why I am saved. I believe it was my grandmother’s prayers for me that caused God to soften my heart. I could be wrong but if it wasn’t her it was someone else. It could have been my R.A. counselor at the church I went to with my grandmother. He kept up with me through my entire childhood even though I had stopped going to R.A.’s when my grandmother became too sick to go to church. I remember him dropping by to say, “hi”. I know that I grew up in the thick of sin and my heart was hard, but at 19 years old I wanted a relationship with God, I wanted to turn from sin and I remember turning my life over to Jesus. He completely changed my heart; He completely changed my life!
God it did that for me He can do that for those close to me that at this moment have hard hearts and are fighting against God.
Application
I will pray for those I know who need spiritual heart surgery.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I love this story of Moses against Pharaoh and how You showed Your Mighty Power and Your Unfailing Love for Your people. I know that the story is in the Bible for me and for the rest of world that You created. I pray that You soften the hearts of those I love that seem to have their hearts so hardened against You. I know that for some reason You changed my heart and I pray that You do the same thing for them.
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Thursday, January 22, 2009
A Lesson Of Love
Exodus 3; Exodus 4; Exodus 5; Luke 22
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Scripture
Luke 22
31 “Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift each of you like wheat. 32 But I have pleaded in prayer for you, Simon, that your faith should not fail. So when you have repented and turned to me again, strengthen your brothers.”
33 Peter said, “Lord, I am ready to go to prison with you, and even to die with you.”
34 But Jesus said, “Peter, let me tell you something. Before the rooster crows tomorrow morning, you will deny three times that you even know me.”
54 So they arrested him and led him to the high priest’s home. And Peter followed at a distance. 55 The guards lit a fire in the middle of the courtyard and sat around it, and Peter joined them there. 56 A servant girl noticed him in the firelight and began staring at him. Finally she said, “This man was one of Jesus’ followers!”
57 But Peter denied it. “Woman,” he said, “I don’t even know him!”
58 After a while someone else looked at him and said, “You must be one of them!”
“No, man, I’m not!” Peter retorted.
59 About an hour later someone else insisted, “This must be one of them, because he is a Galilean, too.”
60 But Peter said, “Man, I don’t know what you are talking about.” And immediately, while he was still speaking, the rooster crowed.
61 At that moment the Lord turned and looked at Peter. Suddenly, the Lord’s words flashed through Peter’s mind: “Before the rooster crows tomorrow morning, you will deny three times that you even know me.” 62 And Peter left the courtyard, weeping bitterly.
Observation
Simon Peter is getting ready to learn a lesson about the Extreme Love of Christ. This is only a partial lesson that will be completed after the resurrection of Jesus. John chapter 21 is all about Jesus restoring Peter back to fellowship after his denial. This story is a lesson of Extreme Love demonstrated through Extreme Forgiveness.
It is a lesson for you and a lesson for me. Jesus loves us that much. In fact, nothing can change God’s love for us. No matter what I do Jesus is still going to love me just the same. No matter how much I disappoint Him and there are going to be times when I do His love for me will never change! I have experienced His Extreme Love and Forgiveness and I have been forgiven for all of my sins. How about you?
Application
I will thank the Lord for the relationship that I have with Him. I am one of His children. It can’t get any better than that.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you, thank you, thank you, for saving me. Thank you that today I am forgiven and I will never receive the punishment from you that I deserve. Thank you that Your love for me will never change.
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Exodus 3; Exodus 4; Exodus 5; Luke 22
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Scripture
Luke 22
31 “Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift each of you like wheat. 32 But I have pleaded in prayer for you, Simon, that your faith should not fail. So when you have repented and turned to me again, strengthen your brothers.”
33 Peter said, “Lord, I am ready to go to prison with you, and even to die with you.”
34 But Jesus said, “Peter, let me tell you something. Before the rooster crows tomorrow morning, you will deny three times that you even know me.”
54 So they arrested him and led him to the high priest’s home. And Peter followed at a distance. 55 The guards lit a fire in the middle of the courtyard and sat around it, and Peter joined them there. 56 A servant girl noticed him in the firelight and began staring at him. Finally she said, “This man was one of Jesus’ followers!”
57 But Peter denied it. “Woman,” he said, “I don’t even know him!”
58 After a while someone else looked at him and said, “You must be one of them!”
“No, man, I’m not!” Peter retorted.
59 About an hour later someone else insisted, “This must be one of them, because he is a Galilean, too.”
60 But Peter said, “Man, I don’t know what you are talking about.” And immediately, while he was still speaking, the rooster crowed.
61 At that moment the Lord turned and looked at Peter. Suddenly, the Lord’s words flashed through Peter’s mind: “Before the rooster crows tomorrow morning, you will deny three times that you even know me.” 62 And Peter left the courtyard, weeping bitterly.
Observation
Simon Peter is getting ready to learn a lesson about the Extreme Love of Christ. This is only a partial lesson that will be completed after the resurrection of Jesus. John chapter 21 is all about Jesus restoring Peter back to fellowship after his denial. This story is a lesson of Extreme Love demonstrated through Extreme Forgiveness.
It is a lesson for you and a lesson for me. Jesus loves us that much. In fact, nothing can change God’s love for us. No matter what I do Jesus is still going to love me just the same. No matter how much I disappoint Him and there are going to be times when I do His love for me will never change! I have experienced His Extreme Love and Forgiveness and I have been forgiven for all of my sins. How about you?
Application
I will thank the Lord for the relationship that I have with Him. I am one of His children. It can’t get any better than that.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you, thank you, thank you, for saving me. Thank you that today I am forgiven and I will never receive the punishment from you that I deserve. Thank you that Your love for me will never change.
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Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Mount of Olives … Not a Holiday Inn!
Exodus 1; Exodus 2; Psalm 88; Luke 21
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Scripture
Luke 21
37 Every day Jesus went to the Temple to teach, and each evening he returned to spend the night on the Mount of Olives. 38 The crowds gathered at the Temple early each morning to hear him.
Observation
The Bible says that Jesus did not have a home. It says that He had nowhere to lay his head. "Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head." Luke 9:58. Have you ever thought about that statement? Jesus Christ, the one that created this entire Universe came to this earth and did not even own His own home. His only possessions were the clothes that He had on each day. How would you have liked to have taught all day long and then go somewhere and sleep outside only to repeat the cycle again the next day? They didn’t carry with them each night their tents, their camp stoves, their army cots, or their sleeping bags. We don’t ever think about that do we?
When we complain about what we are missing in this life it must make Jesus chuckle and then when we continue to complain it must make Him a bit angry don’t you think. We are so blessed in this country.
Application
I thank the Lord for the roof over my head and I thank Him for every creature comfort that I get to enjoy.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we read the scriptures sometimes we fail to see the real picture. Thank you for coming to this earth and showing us how we should live. Help me not to complain today. I am so blessed. Thank you for providing me and my family with so much. I pray for our new president today and his family. Give him wisdom. Keep him from listening to ungodly counsel. Help him to make Godly decisions.
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Exodus 1; Exodus 2; Psalm 88; Luke 21
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Scripture
Luke 21
37 Every day Jesus went to the Temple to teach, and each evening he returned to spend the night on the Mount of Olives. 38 The crowds gathered at the Temple early each morning to hear him.
Observation
The Bible says that Jesus did not have a home. It says that He had nowhere to lay his head. "Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head." Luke 9:58. Have you ever thought about that statement? Jesus Christ, the one that created this entire Universe came to this earth and did not even own His own home. His only possessions were the clothes that He had on each day. How would you have liked to have taught all day long and then go somewhere and sleep outside only to repeat the cycle again the next day? They didn’t carry with them each night their tents, their camp stoves, their army cots, or their sleeping bags. We don’t ever think about that do we?
When we complain about what we are missing in this life it must make Jesus chuckle and then when we continue to complain it must make Him a bit angry don’t you think. We are so blessed in this country.
Application
I thank the Lord for the roof over my head and I thank Him for every creature comfort that I get to enjoy.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we read the scriptures sometimes we fail to see the real picture. Thank you for coming to this earth and showing us how we should live. Help me not to complain today. I am so blessed. Thank you for providing me and my family with so much. I pray for our new president today and his family. Give him wisdom. Keep him from listening to ungodly counsel. Help him to make Godly decisions.
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Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Grand, Magnificent, Impressive, Exalted, Grandiose!
Genesis 49; Genesis 50; Psalm 8; Luke 20
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Scripture
Psalm 8
1 O LORD, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth!
Your glory is higher than the heavens.
2 You have taught children and infants
to tell of your strength,
silencing your enemies
and all who oppose you.
3 When I look at the night sky and see the work of your fingers—
the moon and the stars you set in place—
4 what are mere mortals that you should think about them,
human beings that you should care for them?
5 Yet you made them only a little lower than God
and crowned them with glory and honor.
6 You gave them charge of everything you made,
putting all things under their authority—
7 the flocks and the herds
and all the wild animals,
8 the birds in the sky, the fish in the sea,
and everything that swims the ocean currents.
9 O LORD, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth!
Observation
Spend the day at the beach and watch the sun set, or watch a storm as it moves ashore, or stay until dark and look up and just try to count the stars, and just see if you don’t walk away in amazement that the Creator God that created everything still cares about you. It is all amazing! How majestic is His Name in All the earth!
Application
O LORD, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, O LORD, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth! Your glory is higher than the heavens!
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Genesis 49; Genesis 50; Psalm 8; Luke 20
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Scripture
Psalm 8
1 O LORD, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth!
Your glory is higher than the heavens.
2 You have taught children and infants
to tell of your strength,
silencing your enemies
and all who oppose you.
3 When I look at the night sky and see the work of your fingers—
the moon and the stars you set in place—
4 what are mere mortals that you should think about them,
human beings that you should care for them?
5 Yet you made them only a little lower than God
and crowned them with glory and honor.
6 You gave them charge of everything you made,
putting all things under their authority—
7 the flocks and the herds
and all the wild animals,
8 the birds in the sky, the fish in the sea,
and everything that swims the ocean currents.
9 O LORD, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth!
Observation
Spend the day at the beach and watch the sun set, or watch a storm as it moves ashore, or stay until dark and look up and just try to count the stars, and just see if you don’t walk away in amazement that the Creator God that created everything still cares about you. It is all amazing! How majestic is His Name in All the earth!
Application
O LORD, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, O LORD, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth! Your glory is higher than the heavens!
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Monday, January 19, 2009
Temple Maintenance
Genesis 47; Genesis 48; Psalm 10; Luke 19
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Scripture
Jesus Clears the Temple
45 Then Jesus entered the Temple and began to drive out the people selling animals for sacrifices. 46 He said to them, “The Scriptures declare, ‘My Temple will be a house of prayer,’ but you have turned it into a den of thieves.”
47 After that, he taught daily in the Temple, but the leading priests, the teachers of religious law, and the other leaders of the people began planning how to kill him. 48 But they could think of nothing, because all the people hung on every word he said.
Observation
Jesus was angry with those that had turned the Temple into a place of business and he chased all the merchants out. Have you ever thought about how He did that, Jesus was only One Person? Why did the people flee when it was just One Man chasing them out? Maybe they had watched Him perform miracles right in front of their eyes and so they knew that He was more than a prophet. God hates sin.
This passage reminds me that as Christians our human bodies are God’s temples and we are commanded to keep our bodies as a living sacrifice.
"Don't you know that you yourselves are God's temple and that God's Spirit lives in you?" 1 Cor. 3:16
"Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God--this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is--his good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12:1-2
Application
I will offer my body today as a living sacrifice and I will strive to keep myself free of sin.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I pray for our new President today. Give him wisdom. Bless he and his family and help them to walk in Your ways. Protect them through all the activities of the next several days. And help me to guard my heart and keep my body clean from sin. Give me strength to say no to temptations when they come. In Jesus Name Amen.
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Genesis 47; Genesis 48; Psalm 10; Luke 19
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Scripture
Jesus Clears the Temple
45 Then Jesus entered the Temple and began to drive out the people selling animals for sacrifices. 46 He said to them, “The Scriptures declare, ‘My Temple will be a house of prayer,’ but you have turned it into a den of thieves.”
47 After that, he taught daily in the Temple, but the leading priests, the teachers of religious law, and the other leaders of the people began planning how to kill him. 48 But they could think of nothing, because all the people hung on every word he said.
Observation
Jesus was angry with those that had turned the Temple into a place of business and he chased all the merchants out. Have you ever thought about how He did that, Jesus was only One Person? Why did the people flee when it was just One Man chasing them out? Maybe they had watched Him perform miracles right in front of their eyes and so they knew that He was more than a prophet. God hates sin.
This passage reminds me that as Christians our human bodies are God’s temples and we are commanded to keep our bodies as a living sacrifice.
"Don't you know that you yourselves are God's temple and that God's Spirit lives in you?" 1 Cor. 3:16
"Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God--this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is--his good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12:1-2
Application
I will offer my body today as a living sacrifice and I will strive to keep myself free of sin.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I pray for our new President today. Give him wisdom. Bless he and his family and help them to walk in Your ways. Protect them through all the activities of the next several days. And help me to guard my heart and keep my body clean from sin. Give me strength to say no to temptations when they come. In Jesus Name Amen.
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Sunday, January 18, 2009
And He Followed Jesus, Praising God!
Genesis 44; Genesis 45; Genesis 46; Luke 18
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Scripture
Jesus Heals a Blind Beggar
35 As Jesus approached Jericho, a blind beggar was sitting beside the road. 36 When he heard the noise of a crowd going past, he asked what was happening. 37 They told him that Jesus the Nazarene was going by. 38 So he began shouting, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!”
39 “Be quiet!” the people in front yelled at him.
But he only shouted louder, “Son of David, have mercy on me!”
40 When Jesus heard him, he stopped and ordered that the man be brought to him. As the man came near, Jesus asked him, 41 “What do you want me to do for you?”
“Lord,” he said, “I want to see!”
42 And Jesus said, “All right, receive your sight! Your faith has healed you.” 43 Instantly the man could see, and he followed Jesus, praising God. And all who saw it praised God, too.
Observation
I would have loved watching this blind man as he followed Jesus praising God! I can pick up the excitement of the moment. What an unbelievable moment for this blind man and those that experienced this miracle. The crowd was telling him to “shut up” but he wasn’t about to miss his chance of being healed. I think it is interesting that he cried out, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” He didn’t say, “Jesus, have mercy on me!” He recognized that Jesus was the Messiah and it was that faith Jesus said that healed the man.
Application
The spiritually blind still need Jesus and it is our job to share with them the Good News.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, open the eyes of the spiritual blind today. I pray that someone finds Jesus today as we meet for worship. I pray that people would put their faith in You today. I pray that people would make decisions today that would draw them closer to You. Thank you for surrounding me with Your Shield of Love.
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Genesis 44; Genesis 45; Genesis 46; Luke 18
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Scripture
Jesus Heals a Blind Beggar
35 As Jesus approached Jericho, a blind beggar was sitting beside the road. 36 When he heard the noise of a crowd going past, he asked what was happening. 37 They told him that Jesus the Nazarene was going by. 38 So he began shouting, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!”
39 “Be quiet!” the people in front yelled at him.
But he only shouted louder, “Son of David, have mercy on me!”
40 When Jesus heard him, he stopped and ordered that the man be brought to him. As the man came near, Jesus asked him, 41 “What do you want me to do for you?”
“Lord,” he said, “I want to see!”
42 And Jesus said, “All right, receive your sight! Your faith has healed you.” 43 Instantly the man could see, and he followed Jesus, praising God. And all who saw it praised God, too.
Observation
I would have loved watching this blind man as he followed Jesus praising God! I can pick up the excitement of the moment. What an unbelievable moment for this blind man and those that experienced this miracle. The crowd was telling him to “shut up” but he wasn’t about to miss his chance of being healed. I think it is interesting that he cried out, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” He didn’t say, “Jesus, have mercy on me!” He recognized that Jesus was the Messiah and it was that faith Jesus said that healed the man.
Application
The spiritually blind still need Jesus and it is our job to share with them the Good News.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, open the eyes of the spiritual blind today. I pray that someone finds Jesus today as we meet for worship. I pray that people would put their faith in You today. I pray that people would make decisions today that would draw them closer to You. Thank you for surrounding me with Your Shield of Love.
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Saturday, January 17, 2009
Shielded by His Love
Genesis 42; Genesis 43; Psalm 5; Luke 17
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Scripture
Psalm 5
12 For you bless the godly, O LORD;
you surround them with your shield of love.
Observation
For the past couple of weeks I have been memorizing verses that talk about God being a shield around us. Now I know what kind of shield it is it is a shield of love. Wow! I am shielded by God’s love that is very cool!
Application
I will memorize Psalm 5:12 this week!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I can think of no better protection than to be shielded by your love. Thank you for surrounding me with Your Love.
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Genesis 42; Genesis 43; Psalm 5; Luke 17
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Scripture
Psalm 5
12 For you bless the godly, O LORD;
you surround them with your shield of love.
Observation
For the past couple of weeks I have been memorizing verses that talk about God being a shield around us. Now I know what kind of shield it is it is a shield of love. Wow! I am shielded by God’s love that is very cool!
Application
I will memorize Psalm 5:12 this week!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I can think of no better protection than to be shielded by your love. Thank you for surrounding me with Your Love.
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Friday, January 16, 2009
Hard Lessons From Hell - Learned Too Late
Genesis 39; Genesis 40; Genesis 41; Luke 16
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Scripture
Luke 16
Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus
19 Jesus said, “There was a certain rich man who was splendidly clothed in purple and fine linen and who lived each day in luxury. 20 At his gate lay a poor man named Lazarus who was covered with sores. 21 As Lazarus lay there longing for scraps from the rich man’s table, the dogs would come and lick his open sores.
22 “Finally, the poor man died and was carried by the angels to be with Abraham. The rich man also died and was buried, 23 and his soul went to the place of the dead. There, in torment, he saw Abraham in the far distance with Lazarus at his side.
24 “The rich man shouted, ‘Father Abraham, have some pity! Send Lazarus over here to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue. I am in anguish in these flames.’
25 “But Abraham said to him, ‘Son, remember that during your lifetime you had everything you wanted, and Lazarus had nothing. So now he is here being comforted, and you are in anguish. 26 And besides, there is a great chasm separating us. No one can cross over to you from here, and no one can cross over to us from there.’
27 “Then the rich man said, ‘Please, Father Abraham, at least send him to my father’s home. 28 For I have five brothers, and I want him to warn them so they don’t end up in this place of torment.’
29 “But Abraham said, ‘Moses and the prophets have warned them. Your brothers can read what they wrote.’
30 “The rich man replied, ‘No, Father Abraham! But if someone is sent to them from the dead, then they will repent of their sins and turn to God.’
31 “But Abraham said, ‘If they won’t listen to Moses and the prophets, they won’t listen even if someone rises from the dead.’”
Observation
How many lessons did this man learn in Hell only to find out that he learned them too late? How many lessons can you find in this story? Let me point out some that are pretty obvious. He learned that hell is a real place and it was hot! He was in torment. He was able to remember back on how he lived ... now with deep regret. He suddenly had concern for the spiritual well being of his family but it was too late. Every lesson he learned in hell did him no good. It was too late!
He still even in hell wanted to order Lazarus around just like he must have done folks when he was on earth. Some things never change!
Application
Hell is real and that is what makes the Gospel - Good News! I will look for opportunities today to share the Gospel.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I don’t want to have regrets when I stand before You so help me share my faith. I pray for those in my family that don’t know you. I pray that you would lead me to people that need to hear the Good News. Thank you for saving me. I don’t deserve it. You are a God of Grace.
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Genesis 39; Genesis 40; Genesis 41; Luke 16
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Scripture
Luke 16
Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus
19 Jesus said, “There was a certain rich man who was splendidly clothed in purple and fine linen and who lived each day in luxury. 20 At his gate lay a poor man named Lazarus who was covered with sores. 21 As Lazarus lay there longing for scraps from the rich man’s table, the dogs would come and lick his open sores.
22 “Finally, the poor man died and was carried by the angels to be with Abraham. The rich man also died and was buried, 23 and his soul went to the place of the dead. There, in torment, he saw Abraham in the far distance with Lazarus at his side.
24 “The rich man shouted, ‘Father Abraham, have some pity! Send Lazarus over here to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue. I am in anguish in these flames.’
25 “But Abraham said to him, ‘Son, remember that during your lifetime you had everything you wanted, and Lazarus had nothing. So now he is here being comforted, and you are in anguish. 26 And besides, there is a great chasm separating us. No one can cross over to you from here, and no one can cross over to us from there.’
27 “Then the rich man said, ‘Please, Father Abraham, at least send him to my father’s home. 28 For I have five brothers, and I want him to warn them so they don’t end up in this place of torment.’
29 “But Abraham said, ‘Moses and the prophets have warned them. Your brothers can read what they wrote.’
30 “The rich man replied, ‘No, Father Abraham! But if someone is sent to them from the dead, then they will repent of their sins and turn to God.’
31 “But Abraham said, ‘If they won’t listen to Moses and the prophets, they won’t listen even if someone rises from the dead.’”
Observation
How many lessons did this man learn in Hell only to find out that he learned them too late? How many lessons can you find in this story? Let me point out some that are pretty obvious. He learned that hell is a real place and it was hot! He was in torment. He was able to remember back on how he lived ... now with deep regret. He suddenly had concern for the spiritual well being of his family but it was too late. Every lesson he learned in hell did him no good. It was too late!
He still even in hell wanted to order Lazarus around just like he must have done folks when he was on earth. Some things never change!
Application
Hell is real and that is what makes the Gospel - Good News! I will look for opportunities today to share the Gospel.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I don’t want to have regrets when I stand before You so help me share my faith. I pray for those in my family that don’t know you. I pray that you would lead me to people that need to hear the Good News. Thank you for saving me. I don’t deserve it. You are a God of Grace.
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Thursday, January 15, 2009
Notorious Sinners
Genesis 37; Genesis 38; Psalm 7; Luke 15
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Scripture
Luke 15
1 Tax collectors and other notorious sinners often came to listen to Jesus teach. 2 This made the Pharisees and teachers of religious law complain that he was associating with such sinful people—even eating with them!
Observation
What notorious sinners do you hang out with? The scriptures say that tax collectors and other notorious sinners often came to listen to Jesus. How often do you and I eat with sinners? Most of my week is spent with church folks … how about yours? It is something that I need to change in 2009.
Application
I will figure out a way to spend more time with notorious sinners in 2009. How about you?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to get myself involved in the lives of folks that don’t know you. Show me what I need to do to change my schedule so I make time for people that need to hear about you.
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Genesis 37; Genesis 38; Psalm 7; Luke 15
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Scripture
Luke 15
1 Tax collectors and other notorious sinners often came to listen to Jesus teach. 2 This made the Pharisees and teachers of religious law complain that he was associating with such sinful people—even eating with them!
Observation
What notorious sinners do you hang out with? The scriptures say that tax collectors and other notorious sinners often came to listen to Jesus. How often do you and I eat with sinners? Most of my week is spent with church folks … how about yours? It is something that I need to change in 2009.
Application
I will figure out a way to spend more time with notorious sinners in 2009. How about you?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to get myself involved in the lives of folks that don’t know you. Show me what I need to do to change my schedule so I make time for people that need to hear about you.
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Wednesday, January 14, 2009
It Better Not Be Your Stuff
Genesis 34; Genesis 35; Genesis 36; Luke 14
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Scripture
Luke 14
33 So you cannot become my disciple without giving up everything you own.
Observation
Houses, Cars, boats, and other toys etc need a new owner. We need to give them all away. We need to give ownership over to the Lord. He needs ownership over our time, our possessions, our money, and even over our relationships.
A huge part of discipleship is letting go of things that we think we own. We don’t really own anything God owns everything. What gets us in trouble is the ownership mentality or ownership attitude that says this is my stuff. In reality these things just become “idols” that actually control or own us. They get our time and affection. They become the focus of our attention. God is jealous and He says, “You cannot become my disciple without giving up everything you own.” “Dear children, keep away from anything that might take God's place in your hearts.” 1 John 5:21
What is in your heart that is taking God’s place?
Application
Little things add up. I am going to re-evaluate and think about all the little stuff in my life and make sure that even the little stuff is not taking God’s place in my heart.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me do an inventory and give everything over to You. Show me where I am not being a good steward of the things that You have put in my care. I recognize that they are not mine and everything I have is Yours.
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Genesis 34; Genesis 35; Genesis 36; Luke 14
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Scripture
Luke 14
33 So you cannot become my disciple without giving up everything you own.
Observation
Houses, Cars, boats, and other toys etc need a new owner. We need to give them all away. We need to give ownership over to the Lord. He needs ownership over our time, our possessions, our money, and even over our relationships.
A huge part of discipleship is letting go of things that we think we own. We don’t really own anything God owns everything. What gets us in trouble is the ownership mentality or ownership attitude that says this is my stuff. In reality these things just become “idols” that actually control or own us. They get our time and affection. They become the focus of our attention. God is jealous and He says, “You cannot become my disciple without giving up everything you own.” “Dear children, keep away from anything that might take God's place in your hearts.” 1 John 5:21
What is in your heart that is taking God’s place?
Application
Little things add up. I am going to re-evaluate and think about all the little stuff in my life and make sure that even the little stuff is not taking God’s place in my heart.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me do an inventory and give everything over to You. Show me where I am not being a good steward of the things that You have put in my care. I recognize that they are not mine and everything I have is Yours.
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Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Safe In Christ!
Genesis 31; Genesis 32; Genesis 33; Luke 13
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Scripture
Luke 13
34 “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones God’s messengers! How often I have wanted to gather your children together as a hen protects her chicks beneath her wings, but you wouldn’t let me. 35 And now, look, your house is abandoned. And you will never see me again until you say, ‘Blessings on the one who comes in the name of the LORD!’
Observation
Have you ever tried to mess with a hen’s chicks? Don’t go there unless you want trouble. A hen will die protecting her chicks and when there is danger the chicks run and hide under the safety of their mother’s wings. Jesus and all those listening probably saw this scene on a daily basis. All of us city folks probably don’t get the significance of Jesus’ illustration like they did when He said this 2,000 years ago.
This same city Jerusalem would soon hang Jesus on a cross and totally reject Him and Jesus knew it yet He loved them. He has the same love for us today. He wants to protect us. He wants us to become His children. Oh how He wants that … and yet He will not force Himself on us. He reaches out to us, but we have to respond to His call.
You can see God’s heart for every person in verse 34,“…How often I have wanted to gather your children together as a hen protects her chicks beneath her wings, but you wouldn’t let me.
“…But you wouldn’t let me” are some of the saddest words in the Bible! Don’t resist Christ … say “yes” to Him today!
Application
I am safely under the Wings of my Heavenly Father.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, you are a shield around me. I am safely under Your Mighty protection. “But you, God, shield me on all sides; You ground my feet, you lift my head high” Psalm 3:3
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Genesis 31; Genesis 32; Genesis 33; Luke 13
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Scripture
Luke 13
34 “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones God’s messengers! How often I have wanted to gather your children together as a hen protects her chicks beneath her wings, but you wouldn’t let me. 35 And now, look, your house is abandoned. And you will never see me again until you say, ‘Blessings on the one who comes in the name of the LORD!’
Observation
Have you ever tried to mess with a hen’s chicks? Don’t go there unless you want trouble. A hen will die protecting her chicks and when there is danger the chicks run and hide under the safety of their mother’s wings. Jesus and all those listening probably saw this scene on a daily basis. All of us city folks probably don’t get the significance of Jesus’ illustration like they did when He said this 2,000 years ago.
This same city Jerusalem would soon hang Jesus on a cross and totally reject Him and Jesus knew it yet He loved them. He has the same love for us today. He wants to protect us. He wants us to become His children. Oh how He wants that … and yet He will not force Himself on us. He reaches out to us, but we have to respond to His call.
You can see God’s heart for every person in verse 34,“…How often I have wanted to gather your children together as a hen protects her chicks beneath her wings, but you wouldn’t let me.
“…But you wouldn’t let me” are some of the saddest words in the Bible! Don’t resist Christ … say “yes” to Him today!
Application
I am safely under the Wings of my Heavenly Father.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, you are a shield around me. I am safely under Your Mighty protection. “But you, God, shield me on all sides; You ground my feet, you lift my head high” Psalm 3:3
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Monday, January 12, 2009
Are You a Fool?
Genesis 29; Genesis 30; Luke 12
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Scripture
Luke 12
21 “Yes, a person is a fool to store up earthly wealth but not have a rich relationship with God.”
Observation
We have watched how fast and how easy it is to lose earthly wealth over the past few months. I read in the news about a German billionaire that committed suicide because of our present financial situation … a billionaire!
Having a rich relationship with God is the smartest move that you can make in today’s financial market. I would suggest moving more of your assets over to Him and putting them under His care!
Application
I want to be rich … rich in my relationship with my God!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to store up my riches in Heaven where they are secure and help me to trust You to take care of my family and me.
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Genesis 29; Genesis 30; Luke 12
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Scripture
Luke 12
21 “Yes, a person is a fool to store up earthly wealth but not have a rich relationship with God.”
Observation
We have watched how fast and how easy it is to lose earthly wealth over the past few months. I read in the news about a German billionaire that committed suicide because of our present financial situation … a billionaire!
Having a rich relationship with God is the smartest move that you can make in today’s financial market. I would suggest moving more of your assets over to Him and putting them under His care!
Application
I want to be rich … rich in my relationship with my God!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to store up my riches in Heaven where they are secure and help me to trust You to take care of my family and me.
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Sunday, January 11, 2009
The Key to a Blessed Life
Genesis 27; Genesis 28; Psalm 4; Luke 11
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Scripture
Luke 11
27 As he was speaking, a woman in the crowd called out, “God bless your mother—the womb from which you came, and the breasts that nursed you!”
28 Jesus replied, “But even more blessed are all who hear the word of God and put it into practice.”
Observation
Do you want a life that is blessed by God? All you have to do is apply verse 28 and your life will be blessed!
Prayer is not a monologue just you and I talking to God, no prayer is a two-way conversation and God uses His word as the primary way of speaking to us. If you never open His word, if You don’t hear His word on a daily basis then you are going to be hard pressed to put it into practice.
Application
It is my intention to be in God’s Word everyday to hear His voice and then do what He tells me to do.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me be obedient. Give me the desire to be in Your word everyday. Don’t let me slack off. I do want to be blessed by You. I want Your face to shine on me.
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Genesis 27; Genesis 28; Psalm 4; Luke 11
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Scripture
Luke 11
27 As he was speaking, a woman in the crowd called out, “God bless your mother—the womb from which you came, and the breasts that nursed you!”
28 Jesus replied, “But even more blessed are all who hear the word of God and put it into practice.”
Observation
Do you want a life that is blessed by God? All you have to do is apply verse 28 and your life will be blessed!
Prayer is not a monologue just you and I talking to God, no prayer is a two-way conversation and God uses His word as the primary way of speaking to us. If you never open His word, if You don’t hear His word on a daily basis then you are going to be hard pressed to put it into practice.
Application
It is my intention to be in God’s Word everyday to hear His voice and then do what He tells me to do.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me be obedient. Give me the desire to be in Your word everyday. Don’t let me slack off. I do want to be blessed by You. I want Your face to shine on me.
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Saturday, January 10, 2009
Good Samaritan = Good Stewardship!
Genesis 25; Genesis 26; Psalm 6; Luke 10
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Scripture
The Most Important Commandment
Luke 10
25 One day an expert in religious law stood up to test Jesus by asking him this question: “Teacher, what should I do to inherit eternal life?”
26 Jesus replied, “What does the law of Moses say? How do you read it?”
27 The man answered, “‘You must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your strength, and all your mind.’ And, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’”
28 “Right!” Jesus told him. “Do this and you will live!”
29 The man wanted to justify his actions, so he asked Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?”
Parable of the Good Samaritan
30 Jesus replied with a story: “A Jewish man was traveling on a trip from Jerusalem to Jericho, and he was attacked by bandits. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him up, and left him half dead beside the road.
31 “By chance a priest came along. But when he saw the man lying there, he crossed to the other side of the road and passed him by. 32 A Temple assistant walked over and looked at him lying there, but he also passed by on the other side.
33 “Then a despised Samaritan came along, and when he saw the man, he felt compassion for him. 34 Going over to him, the Samaritan soothed his wounds with olive oil and wine and bandaged them. Then he put the man on his own donkey and took him to an inn, where he took care of him.
35 The next day he handed the innkeeper two silver coins, telling him, ‘Take care of this man. If his bill runs higher than this, I’ll pay you the next time I’m here.’
36 “Now which of these three would you say was a neighbor to the man who was attacked by bandits?” Jesus asked.
37 The man replied, “The one who showed him mercy.”
Then Jesus said, “Yes, now go and do the same.”
Observation
This passage is my sermon text for tomorrow’s message. Three points: 1. What’s Yours is Mine and I am going to take it. (The bandits rob and beat up the Jewish man on his way to Jericho) - (Malachi 3:8-10) 2. What’s Mine is Mine and I am going to Keep it. (Priest and temple assistant seeing the man but refusing to help him) 3. What’s Mine is Yours and I am going to share it with you. (The Good Samaritan that takes care of the half dead Jewish man) We do not own our time, our money, our possessions, or our relationships.
Application
Every possession I have I should be willing to give away to help someone in need.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me be more like the Good Samaritan in this story and less like the priest and Temple assistant.
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Genesis 25; Genesis 26; Psalm 6; Luke 10
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Scripture
The Most Important Commandment
Luke 10
25 One day an expert in religious law stood up to test Jesus by asking him this question: “Teacher, what should I do to inherit eternal life?”
26 Jesus replied, “What does the law of Moses say? How do you read it?”
27 The man answered, “‘You must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your strength, and all your mind.’ And, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’”
28 “Right!” Jesus told him. “Do this and you will live!”
29 The man wanted to justify his actions, so he asked Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?”
Parable of the Good Samaritan
30 Jesus replied with a story: “A Jewish man was traveling on a trip from Jerusalem to Jericho, and he was attacked by bandits. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him up, and left him half dead beside the road.
31 “By chance a priest came along. But when he saw the man lying there, he crossed to the other side of the road and passed him by. 32 A Temple assistant walked over and looked at him lying there, but he also passed by on the other side.
33 “Then a despised Samaritan came along, and when he saw the man, he felt compassion for him. 34 Going over to him, the Samaritan soothed his wounds with olive oil and wine and bandaged them. Then he put the man on his own donkey and took him to an inn, where he took care of him.
35 The next day he handed the innkeeper two silver coins, telling him, ‘Take care of this man. If his bill runs higher than this, I’ll pay you the next time I’m here.’
36 “Now which of these three would you say was a neighbor to the man who was attacked by bandits?” Jesus asked.
37 The man replied, “The one who showed him mercy.”
Then Jesus said, “Yes, now go and do the same.”
Observation
This passage is my sermon text for tomorrow’s message. Three points: 1. What’s Yours is Mine and I am going to take it. (The bandits rob and beat up the Jewish man on his way to Jericho) - (Malachi 3:8-10) 2. What’s Mine is Mine and I am going to Keep it. (Priest and temple assistant seeing the man but refusing to help him) 3. What’s Mine is Yours and I am going to share it with you. (The Good Samaritan that takes care of the half dead Jewish man) We do not own our time, our money, our possessions, or our relationships.
Application
Every possession I have I should be willing to give away to help someone in need.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me be more like the Good Samaritan in this story and less like the priest and Temple assistant.
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Friday, January 09, 2009
A Lesson In How To Pray
Genesis 23; Genesis 24; Luke 9
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Scripture
Genesis 24
12 “O LORD, God of my master, Abraham,” he prayed. “Please give me success today, and show unfailing love to my master, Abraham. 13 See, I am standing here beside this spring, and the young women of the town are coming out to draw water. 14 This is my request. I will ask one of them, ‘Please give me a drink from your jug.’ If she says, ‘Yes, have a drink, and I will water your camels, too!’—let her be the one you have selected as Isaac’s wife. This is how I will know that you have shown unfailing love to my master.”
15 Before he had finished praying, he saw a young woman named Rebekah coming out with her water jug on her shoulder. She was the daughter of Bethuel, who was the son of Abraham’s brother Nahor and his wife, Milcah. 16 Rebekah was very beautiful and old enough to be married, but she was still a virgin. She went down to the spring, filled her jug, and came up again. 17 Running over to her, the servant said, “Please give me a little drink of water from your jug.”
18 “Yes, my lord,” she answered, “have a drink.” And she quickly lowered her jug from her shoulder and gave him a drink. 19 When she had given him a drink, she said, “I’ll draw water for your camels, too, until they have had enough to drink.” 20 So she quickly emptied her jug into the watering trough and ran back to the well to draw water for all his camels.
21 The servant watched her in silence, wondering whether or not the LORD had given him success in his mission. 22 Then at last, when the camels had finished drinking, he took out a gold ring for her nose and two large gold bracelets for her wrists.
23 “Whose daughter are you?” he asked. “And please tell me, would your father have any room to put us up for the night?”
24 “I am the daughter of Bethuel,” she replied. “My grandparents are Nahor and Milcah. 25 Yes, we have plenty of straw and feed for the camels, and we have room for guests.”
26 The man bowed low and worshiped the LORD. 27 “Praise the LORD, the God of my master, Abraham,” he said. “The LORD has shown unfailing love and faithfulness to my master, for he has led me straight to my master’s relatives.”
Observation
This servant of Abraham knew how to pray. We can take lessons in how to pray specifically for the things that God has placed on our hearts. I love this prayer request:
“Please give me success today, and show unfailing love to my master, Abraham. See, I am standing here beside this spring, and the young women of the town are coming out to draw water. This is my request. I will ask one of them, ‘Please give me a drink from your jug.’ If she says, ‘Yes, have a drink, and I will water your camels, too!’—let her be the one you have selected as Isaac’s wife. This is how I will know that you have shown unfailing love to my master.”
How much more specific can someone get than that!
Application
I will make specific requests today to the Lord as He leads me.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, You led this servant right to the relatives of Abraham, you had Rebekah show up first at the well then she said and did exactly as the servant had prayed. You were working all of this out just like You will do for me today and for others that pray specifically as Your Spirit leads us. Thank you for hearing and answering our prayers.
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Genesis 23; Genesis 24; Luke 9
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Scripture
Genesis 24
12 “O LORD, God of my master, Abraham,” he prayed. “Please give me success today, and show unfailing love to my master, Abraham. 13 See, I am standing here beside this spring, and the young women of the town are coming out to draw water. 14 This is my request. I will ask one of them, ‘Please give me a drink from your jug.’ If she says, ‘Yes, have a drink, and I will water your camels, too!’—let her be the one you have selected as Isaac’s wife. This is how I will know that you have shown unfailing love to my master.”
15 Before he had finished praying, he saw a young woman named Rebekah coming out with her water jug on her shoulder. She was the daughter of Bethuel, who was the son of Abraham’s brother Nahor and his wife, Milcah. 16 Rebekah was very beautiful and old enough to be married, but she was still a virgin. She went down to the spring, filled her jug, and came up again. 17 Running over to her, the servant said, “Please give me a little drink of water from your jug.”
18 “Yes, my lord,” she answered, “have a drink.” And she quickly lowered her jug from her shoulder and gave him a drink. 19 When she had given him a drink, she said, “I’ll draw water for your camels, too, until they have had enough to drink.” 20 So she quickly emptied her jug into the watering trough and ran back to the well to draw water for all his camels.
21 The servant watched her in silence, wondering whether or not the LORD had given him success in his mission. 22 Then at last, when the camels had finished drinking, he took out a gold ring for her nose and two large gold bracelets for her wrists.
23 “Whose daughter are you?” he asked. “And please tell me, would your father have any room to put us up for the night?”
24 “I am the daughter of Bethuel,” she replied. “My grandparents are Nahor and Milcah. 25 Yes, we have plenty of straw and feed for the camels, and we have room for guests.”
26 The man bowed low and worshiped the LORD. 27 “Praise the LORD, the God of my master, Abraham,” he said. “The LORD has shown unfailing love and faithfulness to my master, for he has led me straight to my master’s relatives.”
Observation
This servant of Abraham knew how to pray. We can take lessons in how to pray specifically for the things that God has placed on our hearts. I love this prayer request:
“Please give me success today, and show unfailing love to my master, Abraham. See, I am standing here beside this spring, and the young women of the town are coming out to draw water. This is my request. I will ask one of them, ‘Please give me a drink from your jug.’ If she says, ‘Yes, have a drink, and I will water your camels, too!’—let her be the one you have selected as Isaac’s wife. This is how I will know that you have shown unfailing love to my master.”
How much more specific can someone get than that!
Application
I will make specific requests today to the Lord as He leads me.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, You led this servant right to the relatives of Abraham, you had Rebekah show up first at the well then she said and did exactly as the servant had prayed. You were working all of this out just like You will do for me today and for others that pray specifically as Your Spirit leads us. Thank you for hearing and answering our prayers.
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Thursday, January 08, 2009
Where Is Your Faith?
Genesis 20; Genesis 21; Genesis 22; Luke 8
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Scripture
Luke 8
Jesus Calms the Storm
22 One day Jesus said to his disciples, “Let’s cross to the other side of the lake.” So they got into a boat and started out. 23 As they sailed across, Jesus settled down for a nap. But soon a fierce storm came down on the lake. The boat was filling with water, and they were in real danger.
24 The disciples went and woke him up, shouting, “Master, Master, we’re going to drown!”
When Jesus woke up, he rebuked the wind and the raging waves. Suddenly the storm stopped and all was calm. 25 Then he asked them, “Where is your faith?”
The disciples were terrified and amazed. “Who is this man?” they asked each other. “When he gives a command, even the wind and waves obey him!”
Observation
It was a good question for Jesus to ask His disciples and it is a good question for Him to ask us today “Where is your faith?”
The Christian life may be easy to live when everything is sailing smoothly along, but what happens when storms come into our lives? Is our faith something that is evident to everyone around us? Life is not always going to go our way sometimes maybe even most of the time life is a struggle. It is so important to have your faith and my faith firmly grounded in Jesus so when the storms come He will be our anchor!
Are you in the middle of any storms? Where is your faith? I hope it is firmly planted on the Lord Jesus Christ.
Application
Jesus is my anchor during every storm.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to keep my eyes on You in the midst of the storms. Life is tough, but You have given us the victory. Give me strength for today. Help me rely on You and You alone! Amen
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Genesis 20; Genesis 21; Genesis 22; Luke 8
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Scripture
Luke 8
Jesus Calms the Storm
22 One day Jesus said to his disciples, “Let’s cross to the other side of the lake.” So they got into a boat and started out. 23 As they sailed across, Jesus settled down for a nap. But soon a fierce storm came down on the lake. The boat was filling with water, and they were in real danger.
24 The disciples went and woke him up, shouting, “Master, Master, we’re going to drown!”
When Jesus woke up, he rebuked the wind and the raging waves. Suddenly the storm stopped and all was calm. 25 Then he asked them, “Where is your faith?”
The disciples were terrified and amazed. “Who is this man?” they asked each other. “When he gives a command, even the wind and waves obey him!”
Observation
It was a good question for Jesus to ask His disciples and it is a good question for Him to ask us today “Where is your faith?”
The Christian life may be easy to live when everything is sailing smoothly along, but what happens when storms come into our lives? Is our faith something that is evident to everyone around us? Life is not always going to go our way sometimes maybe even most of the time life is a struggle. It is so important to have your faith and my faith firmly grounded in Jesus so when the storms come He will be our anchor!
Are you in the middle of any storms? Where is your faith? I hope it is firmly planted on the Lord Jesus Christ.
Application
Jesus is my anchor during every storm.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to keep my eyes on You in the midst of the storms. Life is tough, but You have given us the victory. Give me strength for today. Help me rely on You and You alone! Amen
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Wednesday, January 07, 2009
Forgiveness is the Key
Genesis 18; Genesis 19; Psalm 3; Luke 7
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Scripture
Luke 7
41 Then Jesus told him this story: “A man loaned money to two people—500 pieces of silver to one and 50 pieces to the other. 42 But neither of them could repay him, so he kindly forgave them both, canceling their debts. Who do you suppose loved him more after that?”
43 Simon answered, “I suppose the one for whom he canceled the larger debt.”
“That’s right,” Jesus said. 44 Then he turned to the woman and said to Simon, “Look at this woman kneeling here. When I entered your home, you didn’t offer me water to wash the dust from my feet, but she has washed them with her tears and wiped them with her hair. 45 You didn’t greet me with a kiss, but from the time I first came in, she has not stopped kissing my feet. 46 You neglected the courtesy of olive oil to anoint my head, but she has anointed my feet with rare perfume.
47 “I tell you, her sins—and they are many—have been forgiven, so she has shown me much love. But a person who is forgiven little shows only little love.” 48 Then Jesus said to the woman, “Your sins are forgiven.”
49 The men at the table said among themselves, “Who is this man, that he goes around forgiving sins?”
50 And Jesus said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”
Observation
Have you been forgiven? Jesus told this immoral woman that her sins were forgiven and He said that her sins were many. Because she had been forgiven so much her love for Christ was over the top!
When I came to Christ at 19 years old Jesus saved me from many sins and since then my love for Him has been the main focus of my life. I love Him more than any thing or any person on this earth. My love for Kathy comes right after my love for Christ!
This morning I got up to read His word not because I had to no I got up this morning to read His word because of my love for Him.
Application
I will look for opportunities to share the Good News of Christ today with someone so they can have the experience of having their sins forgiven.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I don’t deserve the relationship that I have with You. Thank you for forgiving my sins. Thank you for giving me Your Word to read everyday. Psalm 3:3-4 “But you, O LORD, are a shield around me; you are my glory, the one who holds my head high. I cried out to the LORD, and he answered me from his holy mountain.”
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Genesis 18; Genesis 19; Psalm 3; Luke 7
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Luke 7
41 Then Jesus told him this story: “A man loaned money to two people—500 pieces of silver to one and 50 pieces to the other. 42 But neither of them could repay him, so he kindly forgave them both, canceling their debts. Who do you suppose loved him more after that?”
43 Simon answered, “I suppose the one for whom he canceled the larger debt.”
“That’s right,” Jesus said. 44 Then he turned to the woman and said to Simon, “Look at this woman kneeling here. When I entered your home, you didn’t offer me water to wash the dust from my feet, but she has washed them with her tears and wiped them with her hair. 45 You didn’t greet me with a kiss, but from the time I first came in, she has not stopped kissing my feet. 46 You neglected the courtesy of olive oil to anoint my head, but she has anointed my feet with rare perfume.
47 “I tell you, her sins—and they are many—have been forgiven, so she has shown me much love. But a person who is forgiven little shows only little love.” 48 Then Jesus said to the woman, “Your sins are forgiven.”
49 The men at the table said among themselves, “Who is this man, that he goes around forgiving sins?”
50 And Jesus said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”
Observation
Have you been forgiven? Jesus told this immoral woman that her sins were forgiven and He said that her sins were many. Because she had been forgiven so much her love for Christ was over the top!
When I came to Christ at 19 years old Jesus saved me from many sins and since then my love for Him has been the main focus of my life. I love Him more than any thing or any person on this earth. My love for Kathy comes right after my love for Christ!
This morning I got up to read His word not because I had to no I got up this morning to read His word because of my love for Him.
Application
I will look for opportunities to share the Good News of Christ today with someone so they can have the experience of having their sins forgiven.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I don’t deserve the relationship that I have with You. Thank you for forgiving my sins. Thank you for giving me Your Word to read everyday. Psalm 3:3-4 “But you, O LORD, are a shield around me; you are my glory, the one who holds my head high. I cried out to the LORD, and he answered me from his holy mountain.”
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Tuesday, January 06, 2009
Promise Made In Blood!
Genesis 15; Genesis 16; Genesis 17; Luke 6
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Scripture
Genesis 15
8 But Abram replied, “O Sovereign LORD, how can I be sure that I will actually possess it?”
9 The LORD told him, “Bring me a three-year-old heifer, a three-year-old female goat, a three-year-old ram, a turtledove, and a young pigeon.” 10 So Abram presented all these to him and killed them. Then he cut each animal down the middle and laid the halves side by side; he did not, however, cut the birds in half. 11 Some vultures swooped down to eat the carcasses, but Abram chased them away.
12 As the sun was going down, Abram fell into a deep sleep, and a terrifying darkness came down over him. 13 Then the LORD said to Abram, “You can be sure that your descendants will be strangers in a foreign land, where they will be oppressed as slaves for 400 years. 14 But I will punish the nation that enslaves them, and in the end they will come away with great wealth. 15 (As for you, you will die in peace and be buried at a ripe old age.) 16 After four generations your descendants will return here to this land, for the sins of the Amorites do not yet warrant their destruction.”
17 After the sun went down and darkness fell, Abram saw a smoking firepot and a flaming torch pass between the halves of the carcasses. 18 So the LORD made a covenant with Abram that day and said, “I have given this land to your descendants, all the way from the border of Egypt to the great Euphrates River—19 the land now occupied by the Kenites, Kenizzites, Kadmonites, 20 Hittites, Perizzites, Rephaites, 21 Amorites, Canaanites, Girgashites, and Jebusites.”
Observation
God made a promise to Abram and God showed Abram how serious He was about keeping this promise by walking through the blood of the animals that had been cut in half. I understand that this ritual was a common way of making covenants back in that day. The parties involved in the covenant would take animals and cut them in half then they would separate the two halves leaving a trail of blood between the two pieces. Whoever was making the covenant would walk between the two halves, walking through the blood that was on the ground and the significance was this; may what happened to this animal happen to me if I fail to keep this promise with you. It was a serious agreement. I believe that marriage ceremonies back then used this kind of ritual.
Maybe we need to start that ritual all over again!
God walked through the halves by Himself. He made the promise to Abram. It was going to happen no matter what.
Application
May I be a man of my word when I make a promise.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I love this story because it shows me Your heart. You do keep all of Your promises. Help me to keep mine. Help me to be dependable. Help me to be faithful. Nothing is impossible with You.
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Genesis 15; Genesis 16; Genesis 17; Luke 6
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Scripture
Genesis 15
8 But Abram replied, “O Sovereign LORD, how can I be sure that I will actually possess it?”
9 The LORD told him, “Bring me a three-year-old heifer, a three-year-old female goat, a three-year-old ram, a turtledove, and a young pigeon.” 10 So Abram presented all these to him and killed them. Then he cut each animal down the middle and laid the halves side by side; he did not, however, cut the birds in half. 11 Some vultures swooped down to eat the carcasses, but Abram chased them away.
12 As the sun was going down, Abram fell into a deep sleep, and a terrifying darkness came down over him. 13 Then the LORD said to Abram, “You can be sure that your descendants will be strangers in a foreign land, where they will be oppressed as slaves for 400 years. 14 But I will punish the nation that enslaves them, and in the end they will come away with great wealth. 15 (As for you, you will die in peace and be buried at a ripe old age.) 16 After four generations your descendants will return here to this land, for the sins of the Amorites do not yet warrant their destruction.”
17 After the sun went down and darkness fell, Abram saw a smoking firepot and a flaming torch pass between the halves of the carcasses. 18 So the LORD made a covenant with Abram that day and said, “I have given this land to your descendants, all the way from the border of Egypt to the great Euphrates River—19 the land now occupied by the Kenites, Kenizzites, Kadmonites, 20 Hittites, Perizzites, Rephaites, 21 Amorites, Canaanites, Girgashites, and Jebusites.”
Observation
God made a promise to Abram and God showed Abram how serious He was about keeping this promise by walking through the blood of the animals that had been cut in half. I understand that this ritual was a common way of making covenants back in that day. The parties involved in the covenant would take animals and cut them in half then they would separate the two halves leaving a trail of blood between the two pieces. Whoever was making the covenant would walk between the two halves, walking through the blood that was on the ground and the significance was this; may what happened to this animal happen to me if I fail to keep this promise with you. It was a serious agreement. I believe that marriage ceremonies back then used this kind of ritual.
Maybe we need to start that ritual all over again!
God walked through the halves by Himself. He made the promise to Abram. It was going to happen no matter what.
Application
May I be a man of my word when I make a promise.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I love this story because it shows me Your heart. You do keep all of Your promises. Help me to keep mine. Help me to be dependable. Help me to be faithful. Nothing is impossible with You.
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Monday, January 05, 2009
Tithing Goes All The Way Back To Abraham!
Genesis 12; Genesis 13; Genesis 14; Luke 5
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Scripture
Genesis 14
Melchizedek Blesses Abram
17 After Abram returned from his victory over Kedorlaomer and all his allies, the king of Sodom went out to meet him in the valley of Shaveh (that is, the King’s Valley).
18 And Melchizedek, the king of Salem and a priest of God Most High, brought Abram some bread and wine. 19 Melchizedek blessed Abram with this blessing:
“Blessed be Abram by God Most High,
Creator of heaven and earth.
20 And blessed be God Most High,
who has defeated your enemies for you.”
Then Abram gave Melchizedek a tenth of all the goods he had recovered.
Observation
Melchizedek is mentioned again in Psalm 110:4; Hebrews7:1,10,11,15,17 and the references talk about Jesus coming from the priestly line of Melchizedek. I don’t know if Abraham met Jesus that day or not, but I do know that is when tithing started in scripture. So it was started before the law was given to Moses.
When we give we are more like God because God is a generous and giving God. He blesses us with so many blessings. What is giving Him back 10% when everything that we have comes from Him?
Application
I will try to give even more this year to God’s kingdom’s work than I did last year.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for blessing so much. I am covered over in Your Blessings. You are so good to me. I do not deserve any of it. Help me trust You even more in 2009. Thank you for a New Year to live for You. Thank You for my health. Thank you for keeping my family healthy. You are a Mighty God.
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Genesis 12; Genesis 13; Genesis 14; Luke 5
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Genesis 14
Melchizedek Blesses Abram
17 After Abram returned from his victory over Kedorlaomer and all his allies, the king of Sodom went out to meet him in the valley of Shaveh (that is, the King’s Valley).
18 And Melchizedek, the king of Salem and a priest of God Most High, brought Abram some bread and wine. 19 Melchizedek blessed Abram with this blessing:
“Blessed be Abram by God Most High,
Creator of heaven and earth.
20 And blessed be God Most High,
who has defeated your enemies for you.”
Then Abram gave Melchizedek a tenth of all the goods he had recovered.
Observation
Melchizedek is mentioned again in Psalm 110:4; Hebrews7:1,10,11,15,17 and the references talk about Jesus coming from the priestly line of Melchizedek. I don’t know if Abraham met Jesus that day or not, but I do know that is when tithing started in scripture. So it was started before the law was given to Moses.
When we give we are more like God because God is a generous and giving God. He blesses us with so many blessings. What is giving Him back 10% when everything that we have comes from Him?
Application
I will try to give even more this year to God’s kingdom’s work than I did last year.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for blessing so much. I am covered over in Your Blessings. You are so good to me. I do not deserve any of it. Help me trust You even more in 2009. Thank you for a New Year to live for You. Thank You for my health. Thank you for keeping my family healthy. You are a Mighty God.
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Sunday, January 04, 2009
The Gospel Must Be Preached In Other Towns Too!
Genesis 9; Genesis 10; Genesis 11; Luke 4
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Scripture
Luke 4
42 Early the next morning Jesus went out to an isolated place. The crowds searched everywhere for him, and when they finally found him, they begged him not to leave them. 43 But he replied, “I must preach the Good News of the Kingdom of God in other towns, too, because that is why I was sent.” 44 So he continued to travel around, preaching in synagogues throughout Judea.
Observation
Where does God want you to take the Gospel? What mission trip are you planning on going on this year? Do you have a passport? You are not going anywhere until you get your passport. Every Christian in the US should have their passport and be ready to go when the Lord says, “GO”.
I am looking forward to 2009 and the opportunities that lie ahead to further the kingdom of God. Why not begin to get yourself ready to go on a mission trip – start with getting your passport!
Application
I will help someone go on a mission trip that has never gone on a mission trip before.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me move people to take risks for you. Help more and more of your people go on mission trips to take the Gospel to those who have never had the chance to hear. Help our church focus on our mission field all around us in Tampa and also beyond our city to the furthest places in the world.
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Genesis 9; Genesis 10; Genesis 11; Luke 4
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Luke 4
42 Early the next morning Jesus went out to an isolated place. The crowds searched everywhere for him, and when they finally found him, they begged him not to leave them. 43 But he replied, “I must preach the Good News of the Kingdom of God in other towns, too, because that is why I was sent.” 44 So he continued to travel around, preaching in synagogues throughout Judea.
Observation
Where does God want you to take the Gospel? What mission trip are you planning on going on this year? Do you have a passport? You are not going anywhere until you get your passport. Every Christian in the US should have their passport and be ready to go when the Lord says, “GO”.
I am looking forward to 2009 and the opportunities that lie ahead to further the kingdom of God. Why not begin to get yourself ready to go on a mission trip – start with getting your passport!
Application
I will help someone go on a mission trip that has never gone on a mission trip before.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me move people to take risks for you. Help more and more of your people go on mission trips to take the Gospel to those who have never had the chance to hear. Help our church focus on our mission field all around us in Tampa and also beyond our city to the furthest places in the world.
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Saturday, January 03, 2009
Evil is Nothing New!
Genesis 6; Genesis 7; Genesis 8; Luke 3
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Scripture
Genesis 6
5 The LORD observed the extent of human wickedness on the earth, and he saw that everything they thought or imagined was consistently and totally evil. 6 So the LORD was sorry he had ever made them and put them on the earth. It broke his heart.
7 And the LORD said, “I will wipe this human race I have created from the face of the earth. Yes, and I will destroy every living thing—all the people, the large animals, the small animals that scurry along the ground, and even the birds of the sky. I am sorry I ever made them.” 8 But Noah found favor with the LORD.
Observation
Evil broke God’s heart back in the days of Noah and you better believe that it is breaking God’s heart today!
Only because He wants to give time for people to be saved is why He hasn’t wiped this world out for the final last time. He is patient and He is not willing that any should perish, but His desire is that all be saved.
Are you doing any thing that breaks God’s heart? Are you doing anything that makes God sad?
I like verse 8; “But Noah found favor with the Lord.”
Application
It is my desire to live in such a way that I find favor with the Lord. How about you?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me live to please You. You are the only Person that I need to please. I pray that I would cause You to smile today and I pray that I would bring You joy today and not sadness.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Genesis 6; Genesis 7; Genesis 8; Luke 3
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Genesis 6
5 The LORD observed the extent of human wickedness on the earth, and he saw that everything they thought or imagined was consistently and totally evil. 6 So the LORD was sorry he had ever made them and put them on the earth. It broke his heart.
7 And the LORD said, “I will wipe this human race I have created from the face of the earth. Yes, and I will destroy every living thing—all the people, the large animals, the small animals that scurry along the ground, and even the birds of the sky. I am sorry I ever made them.” 8 But Noah found favor with the LORD.
Observation
Evil broke God’s heart back in the days of Noah and you better believe that it is breaking God’s heart today!
Only because He wants to give time for people to be saved is why He hasn’t wiped this world out for the final last time. He is patient and He is not willing that any should perish, but His desire is that all be saved.
Are you doing any thing that breaks God’s heart? Are you doing anything that makes God sad?
I like verse 8; “But Noah found favor with the Lord.”
Application
It is my desire to live in such a way that I find favor with the Lord. How about you?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me live to please You. You are the only Person that I need to please. I pray that I would cause You to smile today and I pray that I would bring You joy today and not sadness.
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