Thursday, July 30, 2009
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
God is Patient For Your Sake!
Isaiah 57; Isaiah 58; Isaiah 59; Psalm 103; 2 Peter 3
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
2 Peter 3
8 But you must not forget this one thing, dear friends: A day is like a thousand years to the Lord, and a thousand years is like a day.
9 The Lord isn’t really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent.
15 And remember, the Lord’s patience gives people time to be saved…
Observation
Why does God allow evil to continue in this world? He allows it because He is patiently waiting for people to turn from their evil ways and be saved. If He got rid of evil then those evil people would be destroyed. He is giving everyone an opportunity to be saved.
Application
I will continue to pray for those that need to be saved.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for saving me. I know that You saved me so that I could share the Good News with other people. Help me be your witness today. I pray that people would come to know You through my witness. I pray for our church that it would be a light in a dark and evil world.
Psalm 103
1 Let all that I am praise the LORD;
with my whole heart, I will praise his holy name.
2 Let all that I am praise the LORD;
may I never forget the good things he does for me.
3 He forgives all my sins
and heals all my diseases.
4 He redeems me from death
and crowns me with love and tender mercies.
5 He fills my life with good things.
My youth is renewed like the eagle’s!
20 Praise the LORD, you angels,
you mighty ones who carry out his plans,
listening for each of his commands.
21 Yes, praise the LORD, you armies of angels
who serve him and do his will!
22 Praise the LORD, everything he has created,
everything in all his kingdom.
Let all that I am praise the LORD. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Isaiah 57; Isaiah 58; Isaiah 59; Psalm 103; 2 Peter 3
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
2 Peter 3
8 But you must not forget this one thing, dear friends: A day is like a thousand years to the Lord, and a thousand years is like a day.
9 The Lord isn’t really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent.
15 And remember, the Lord’s patience gives people time to be saved…
Observation
Why does God allow evil to continue in this world? He allows it because He is patiently waiting for people to turn from their evil ways and be saved. If He got rid of evil then those evil people would be destroyed. He is giving everyone an opportunity to be saved.
Application
I will continue to pray for those that need to be saved.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for saving me. I know that You saved me so that I could share the Good News with other people. Help me be your witness today. I pray that people would come to know You through my witness. I pray for our church that it would be a light in a dark and evil world.
Psalm 103
1 Let all that I am praise the LORD;
with my whole heart, I will praise his holy name.
2 Let all that I am praise the LORD;
may I never forget the good things he does for me.
3 He forgives all my sins
and heals all my diseases.
4 He redeems me from death
and crowns me with love and tender mercies.
5 He fills my life with good things.
My youth is renewed like the eagle’s!
20 Praise the LORD, you angels,
you mighty ones who carry out his plans,
listening for each of his commands.
21 Yes, praise the LORD, you armies of angels
who serve him and do his will!
22 Praise the LORD, everything he has created,
everything in all his kingdom.
Let all that I am praise the LORD. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Jesus - A Man of Sorrows – A Wonderful Savior!
Isaiah 53; Isaiah 54; Isaiah 55; Isaiah 56; 2 Peter 2
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Scripture
Isaiah 53
1 Who has believed our message?
To whom has the LORD revealed his powerful arm?
2 My servant grew up in the LORD’s presence like a tender green shoot,
like a root in dry ground.
There was nothing beautiful or majestic about his appearance,
nothing to attract us to him.
3 He was despised and rejected—
a man of sorrows, acquainted with deepest grief.
We turned our backs on him and looked the other way.
He was despised, and we did not care.
4 Yet it was our weaknesses he carried;
it was our sorrows that weighed him down.
And we thought his troubles were a punishment from God,
a punishment for his own sins!
5 But he was pierced for our rebellion,
crushed for our sins.
He was beaten so we could be whole.
He was whipped so we could be healed.
6 All of us, like sheep, have strayed away.
We have left God’s paths to follow our own.
Yet the LORD laid on him
the sins of us all.
7 He was oppressed and treated harshly,
yet he never said a word.
He was led like a lamb to the slaughter.
And as a sheep is silent before the shearers,
he did not open his mouth.
8 Unjustly condemned,
he was led away.
No one cared that he died without descendants,
that his life was cut short in midstream.
But he was struck down
for the rebellion of my people.
9 He had done no wrong
and had never deceived anyone.
But he was buried like a criminal;
he was put in a rich man’s grave.
10 But it was the LORD’s good plan to crush him
and cause him grief.
Yet when his life is made an offering for sin,
he will have many descendants.
He will enjoy a long life,
and the LORD’s good plan will prosper in his hands.
11 When he sees all that is accomplished by his anguish,
he will be satisfied.
And because of his experience,
my righteous servant will make it possible
for many to be counted righteous,
for he will bear all their sins.
12 I will give him the honors of a victorious soldier,
because he exposed himself to death.
He was counted among the rebels.
He bore the sins of many and interceded for rebels.
Observation
When you start feeling sorry for yourself just go back and read Isaiah 53 and think about what Jesus did for you. Read it slowly. Think about it.
Sometimes we think that our lives should be all happiness and trouble free, but that is wrong thinking.
Jesus said in John 16:33, "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." In this world you will … you definitely will have trouble. Count on it!
This shouldn’t cause you to be depressed or sad if Jesus Christ is your Lord and Savior.
I like the promise in Isaiah 43:1-3, ““Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine. When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you. For I am the LORD, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior."
We will go through rough times. He promises us that He will go through those rough times with us and we will experience His peace.
Application
I will thank the Lord for enduring such pain and suffering for me.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for allowing Jesus to die and suffer on the cross for me and for everyone else that puts his or her faith and trust in Him. I don’t deserve the life I get to live. I am so blessed. Direct my paths today and help me please You with the way I live out this day. You are a Wonderful Savior. Thank You for dying on the cross in my place so that I could experience the life that I am now getting to live.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Isaiah 53; Isaiah 54; Isaiah 55; Isaiah 56; 2 Peter 2
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Isaiah 53
1 Who has believed our message?
To whom has the LORD revealed his powerful arm?
2 My servant grew up in the LORD’s presence like a tender green shoot,
like a root in dry ground.
There was nothing beautiful or majestic about his appearance,
nothing to attract us to him.
3 He was despised and rejected—
a man of sorrows, acquainted with deepest grief.
We turned our backs on him and looked the other way.
He was despised, and we did not care.
4 Yet it was our weaknesses he carried;
it was our sorrows that weighed him down.
And we thought his troubles were a punishment from God,
a punishment for his own sins!
5 But he was pierced for our rebellion,
crushed for our sins.
He was beaten so we could be whole.
He was whipped so we could be healed.
6 All of us, like sheep, have strayed away.
We have left God’s paths to follow our own.
Yet the LORD laid on him
the sins of us all.
7 He was oppressed and treated harshly,
yet he never said a word.
He was led like a lamb to the slaughter.
And as a sheep is silent before the shearers,
he did not open his mouth.
8 Unjustly condemned,
he was led away.
No one cared that he died without descendants,
that his life was cut short in midstream.
But he was struck down
for the rebellion of my people.
9 He had done no wrong
and had never deceived anyone.
But he was buried like a criminal;
he was put in a rich man’s grave.
10 But it was the LORD’s good plan to crush him
and cause him grief.
Yet when his life is made an offering for sin,
he will have many descendants.
He will enjoy a long life,
and the LORD’s good plan will prosper in his hands.
11 When he sees all that is accomplished by his anguish,
he will be satisfied.
And because of his experience,
my righteous servant will make it possible
for many to be counted righteous,
for he will bear all their sins.
12 I will give him the honors of a victorious soldier,
because he exposed himself to death.
He was counted among the rebels.
He bore the sins of many and interceded for rebels.
Observation
When you start feeling sorry for yourself just go back and read Isaiah 53 and think about what Jesus did for you. Read it slowly. Think about it.
Sometimes we think that our lives should be all happiness and trouble free, but that is wrong thinking.
Jesus said in John 16:33, "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." In this world you will … you definitely will have trouble. Count on it!
This shouldn’t cause you to be depressed or sad if Jesus Christ is your Lord and Savior.
I like the promise in Isaiah 43:1-3, ““Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine. When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you. For I am the LORD, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior."
We will go through rough times. He promises us that He will go through those rough times with us and we will experience His peace.
Application
I will thank the Lord for enduring such pain and suffering for me.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for allowing Jesus to die and suffer on the cross for me and for everyone else that puts his or her faith and trust in Him. I don’t deserve the life I get to live. I am so blessed. Direct my paths today and help me please You with the way I live out this day. You are a Wonderful Savior. Thank You for dying on the cross in my place so that I could experience the life that I am now getting to live.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Monday, July 27, 2009
God Has Given Us Everything We Need For Living a Godly Life!
Isaiah 50; Isaiah 51; Isaiah 52; Psalm 92; 2 Peter 1
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Scripture
2 Peter 1
3 By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence. 4 And because of his glory and excellence, he has given us great and precious promises. These are the promises that enable you to share his divine nature and escape the world’s corruption caused by human desires.
5 In view of all this, make every effort to respond to God’s promises. Supplement your faith with a generous provision of moral excellence, and moral excellence with knowledge, 6 and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with patient endurance, and patient endurance with godliness, 7 and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love for everyone.
8 The more you grow like this, the more productive and useful you will be in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Observation
God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. So what is the problem? Are you living a godly life? If not … why not?
He has given us great and precious promises that enable us to share in his divine nature. Have you discovered some of these promises?
Because of this we should live lives or moral excellence, and moral excellence with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with patient endurance, and patient endurance with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love for everyone.
If we are growing in the manner listed in the above paragraph then we will be productive and useful for God’s kingdom.
Application
I will review God’s great and precious promises this week and act on them.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for providing me with everything that I need to live a godly life. There is not anything I lack to be able to live like You want me to live. Help me to focus on Your great and precious promises and help me to act on them. I am blessed. Thank You for all the wonderful things that You done for me.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Isaiah 50; Isaiah 51; Isaiah 52; Psalm 92; 2 Peter 1
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
2 Peter 1
3 By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence. 4 And because of his glory and excellence, he has given us great and precious promises. These are the promises that enable you to share his divine nature and escape the world’s corruption caused by human desires.
5 In view of all this, make every effort to respond to God’s promises. Supplement your faith with a generous provision of moral excellence, and moral excellence with knowledge, 6 and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with patient endurance, and patient endurance with godliness, 7 and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love for everyone.
8 The more you grow like this, the more productive and useful you will be in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Observation
God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. So what is the problem? Are you living a godly life? If not … why not?
He has given us great and precious promises that enable us to share in his divine nature. Have you discovered some of these promises?
Because of this we should live lives or moral excellence, and moral excellence with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with patient endurance, and patient endurance with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love for everyone.
If we are growing in the manner listed in the above paragraph then we will be productive and useful for God’s kingdom.
Application
I will review God’s great and precious promises this week and act on them.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for providing me with everything that I need to live a godly life. There is not anything I lack to be able to live like You want me to live. Help me to focus on Your great and precious promises and help me to act on them. I am blessed. Thank You for all the wonderful things that You done for me.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Sunday, July 26, 2009
What a Mighty God We Serve!
Isaiah 46; Isaiah 47; Isaiah 48; Isaiah 49; 1 Peter 5
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Scripture
Isaiah 49
23… “Then you will know that I am the LORD.
Those who trust in me will never be put to shame.”
1 Peter 5
7 “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.”
Observation
Isaiah talked about how stupid it was for the people to serve hand made idols. It does seem dumb to me to make something out of wood or silver and then bow down to it. I would lots rather bow down to the Creator God that created this universe and everything in it. A God that loves and cares about me!
To put our trust in God means that we turn all of our worries and cares over to Him and we can do that because He cares about us!
Application
I will give my worries and cares to God.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I believe that You are Mightily at work in my world today. You are working in the lives of the people around me. Things that come to my mind today that are worries are going to be given to You. Help me to trust You with everything that is going to happen today. I pray that You do Mighty things in our church today. There is not anything too hard for You.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Isaiah 46; Isaiah 47; Isaiah 48; Isaiah 49; 1 Peter 5
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Isaiah 49
23… “Then you will know that I am the LORD.
Those who trust in me will never be put to shame.”
1 Peter 5
7 “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.”
Observation
Isaiah talked about how stupid it was for the people to serve hand made idols. It does seem dumb to me to make something out of wood or silver and then bow down to it. I would lots rather bow down to the Creator God that created this universe and everything in it. A God that loves and cares about me!
To put our trust in God means that we turn all of our worries and cares over to Him and we can do that because He cares about us!
Application
I will give my worries and cares to God.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I believe that You are Mightily at work in my world today. You are working in the lives of the people around me. Things that come to my mind today that are worries are going to be given to You. Help me to trust You with everything that is going to happen today. I pray that You do Mighty things in our church today. There is not anything too hard for You.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Saturday, July 25, 2009
The end of the world is coming soon. Therefore …
Isaiah 43; Isaiah 44; Isaiah 45; 1 Peter 4
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Scripture
1 Peter 4
7 The end of the world is coming soon. Therefore, be earnest and disciplined in your prayers. 8 Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sins. 9 Cheerfully share your home with those who need a meal or a place to stay.
10 God has given each of you a gift from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another. 11 Do you have the gift of speaking? Then speak as though God himself were speaking through you.
Do you have the gift of helping others? Do it with all the strength and energy that God supplies.
Then everything you do will bring glory to God through Jesus Christ. All glory and power to him forever and ever! Amen.
Observation
“The end of the world is coming soon. Therefore…”
1. Be earnest and disciplined in your prayers.
2. Show deep love for each other.
3. Cheerfully share your home with those who need a meal or a place to stay.
4. Use your spiritual gifts to serve one another.
5. Do it with all the strength and energy that God supplies.
Application
I will worker on sharing our home with those in need of a meal or a place to stay.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I believe the end of the world is coming soon. I believe that You have taught us to live like it could end today. Help us to use our home even more to touch lives of those that surround us.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Isaiah 43; Isaiah 44; Isaiah 45; 1 Peter 4
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
1 Peter 4
7 The end of the world is coming soon. Therefore, be earnest and disciplined in your prayers. 8 Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sins. 9 Cheerfully share your home with those who need a meal or a place to stay.
10 God has given each of you a gift from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another. 11 Do you have the gift of speaking? Then speak as though God himself were speaking through you.
Do you have the gift of helping others? Do it with all the strength and energy that God supplies.
Then everything you do will bring glory to God through Jesus Christ. All glory and power to him forever and ever! Amen.
Observation
“The end of the world is coming soon. Therefore…”
1. Be earnest and disciplined in your prayers.
2. Show deep love for each other.
3. Cheerfully share your home with those who need a meal or a place to stay.
4. Use your spiritual gifts to serve one another.
5. Do it with all the strength and energy that God supplies.
Application
I will worker on sharing our home with those in need of a meal or a place to stay.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I believe the end of the world is coming soon. I believe that You have taught us to live like it could end today. Help us to use our home even more to touch lives of those that surround us.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Friday, July 24, 2009
Equal Partners
Isaiah 40; Isaiah 41; Isaiah 42; 1 Peter 3
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Scripture
1 Peter 3
7 In the same way, you husbands must give honor to your wives. Treat your wife with understanding as you live together. She may be weaker than you are, but she is your equal partner in God’s gift of new life. Treat her as you should so your prayers will not be hindered.
Observation
You better treat your wife with honor and treat her like you should or your prayers will not get God’s attention. You can’t mistreat your wife and have a good relationship with your Heavenly Father.
I think the point here is that even if your spouse is not a believer you should treat them well. They may come to Christ by your behavior towards them.
Application
I will honor my wife today.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, You gave me such a great wife that it is easy to love her, honor her, and have deep respect for her. She is the best gift that you have ever given me. Thank You so much for allowing me to have her as my wife. You are so good! Bless Kathy today. Give her energy, strength, and a strong desire to please You today. Smile on her. I pray that Your face shines on her today.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Isaiah 40; Isaiah 41; Isaiah 42; 1 Peter 3
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
1 Peter 3
7 In the same way, you husbands must give honor to your wives. Treat your wife with understanding as you live together. She may be weaker than you are, but she is your equal partner in God’s gift of new life. Treat her as you should so your prayers will not be hindered.
Observation
You better treat your wife with honor and treat her like you should or your prayers will not get God’s attention. You can’t mistreat your wife and have a good relationship with your Heavenly Father.
I think the point here is that even if your spouse is not a believer you should treat them well. They may come to Christ by your behavior towards them.
Application
I will honor my wife today.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, You gave me such a great wife that it is easy to love her, honor her, and have deep respect for her. She is the best gift that you have ever given me. Thank You so much for allowing me to have her as my wife. You are so good! Bless Kathy today. Give her energy, strength, and a strong desire to please You today. Smile on her. I pray that Your face shines on her today.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Chosen!
2 Kings 20; Isaiah 38; Isaiah 39; Psalm 75; 1 Peter 2
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Scripture
1 Peter 2
9 But you are not like that, for you are a chosen people. You are royal priests, a holy nation, God’s very own possession. As a result, you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light.
Observation
How does it feel to be chosen? I know that when the kids were picking up sides to play football or baseball it always felt great to be one the first chosen to play. If you are a Christ-follower you have been chosen. Think of it the God that created this universe has chosen you. Trust me it is not because of anything that you have done that you are chosen. It is totally because of the mercy of God. It has nothing to do with you and how good you are.
We are chosen and we are God’s very own possession. We are to share the Good News of salvation with the entire world. God didn’t save you just for you to keep it to yourself. He saved us for a reason. He saved us so we can take the message of salvation to the rest of the world. Where does God want you to take his message of salvation today?
Application
I will look for the opportunity to share the Good News of Jesus Christ with someone today.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for choosing me to be one of Your children. I don’t deserve it, but I am delighted. Guide me today and show me who needs Your Good News and then give me the words to clearly share the Gospel with them.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
2 Kings 20; Isaiah 38; Isaiah 39; Psalm 75; 1 Peter 2
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
1 Peter 2
9 But you are not like that, for you are a chosen people. You are royal priests, a holy nation, God’s very own possession. As a result, you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light.
Observation
How does it feel to be chosen? I know that when the kids were picking up sides to play football or baseball it always felt great to be one the first chosen to play. If you are a Christ-follower you have been chosen. Think of it the God that created this universe has chosen you. Trust me it is not because of anything that you have done that you are chosen. It is totally because of the mercy of God. It has nothing to do with you and how good you are.
We are chosen and we are God’s very own possession. We are to share the Good News of salvation with the entire world. God didn’t save you just for you to keep it to yourself. He saved us for a reason. He saved us so we can take the message of salvation to the rest of the world. Where does God want you to take his message of salvation today?
Application
I will look for the opportunity to share the Good News of Jesus Christ with someone today.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for choosing me to be one of Your children. I don’t deserve it, but I am delighted. Guide me today and show me who needs Your Good News and then give me the words to clearly share the Gospel with them.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
How Long is “Forever”?
Isaiah 36; Isaiah 37; Psalm 76; 1 Peter 1
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Scripture
1 Peter 1
23 For you have been born again, but not to a life that will quickly end. Your new life will last forever because it comes from the eternal, living word of God. 24 As the Scriptures say,
“People are like grass;
their beauty is like a flower in the field.
The grass withers and the flower fades.
25 But the word of the Lord remains forever.”
And that word is the Good News that was preached to you.
Observation
How old do you think you will be when you die? Do you think that you will live to be 70…80…90…or even 100? Even if you did live to be 100 and you probably will not live to be that old but even if you did 100 years old is not all that old when you compare it to living “forever”. How long is “forever”? It is a long long time!
Our new life is never going to end because it comes from the eternal, living word of God.
Your body is wearing out (how did you feel when you got up out of bed this morning), but your new life in Christ will never wear out. Earth is not your home! One day you and I will give up these earth suits and we will have new bodies designed to live forever.
Peter says that since we are made for eternity that we should love each other deeply:
22 You were cleansed from your sins when you obeyed the truth, so now you must show sincere love to each other as brothers and sisters. Love each other deeply with all your heart.
Application
Nothing is more important than relationships. I will look for ways to show my love to the people around me.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me love people deeply and sincerely. Direct my thoughts today and show me the person(s) who needs my attention. Show me what is on Your heart and direct me where You want me to go and guide me to do things today that have eternal significance.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Isaiah 36; Isaiah 37; Psalm 76; 1 Peter 1
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
1 Peter 1
23 For you have been born again, but not to a life that will quickly end. Your new life will last forever because it comes from the eternal, living word of God. 24 As the Scriptures say,
“People are like grass;
their beauty is like a flower in the field.
The grass withers and the flower fades.
25 But the word of the Lord remains forever.”
And that word is the Good News that was preached to you.
Observation
How old do you think you will be when you die? Do you think that you will live to be 70…80…90…or even 100? Even if you did live to be 100 and you probably will not live to be that old but even if you did 100 years old is not all that old when you compare it to living “forever”. How long is “forever”? It is a long long time!
Our new life is never going to end because it comes from the eternal, living word of God.
Your body is wearing out (how did you feel when you got up out of bed this morning), but your new life in Christ will never wear out. Earth is not your home! One day you and I will give up these earth suits and we will have new bodies designed to live forever.
Peter says that since we are made for eternity that we should love each other deeply:
22 You were cleansed from your sins when you obeyed the truth, so now you must show sincere love to each other as brothers and sisters. Love each other deeply with all your heart.
Application
Nothing is more important than relationships. I will look for ways to show my love to the people around me.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me love people deeply and sincerely. Direct my thoughts today and show me the person(s) who needs my attention. Show me what is on Your heart and direct me where You want me to go and guide me to do things today that have eternal significance.
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Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Great Power in Prayer!
2 Kings 18; 2 Kings 19; 2 Chronicles 32; James 5
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Scripture
The Power of Prayer
13 Are any of you suffering hardships? You should pray. Are any of you happy? You should sing praises.
14 Are any of you sick? You should call for the elders of the church to come and pray over you, anointing you with oil in the name of the Lord. 15 Such a prayer offered in faith will heal the sick, and the Lord will make you well. And if you have committed any sins, you will be forgiven.
16 Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results.
17 Elijah was as human as we are, and yet when he prayed earnestly that no rain would fall, none fell for three and a half years! 18 Then, when he prayed again, the sky sent down rain and the earth began to yield its crops.
Observation
The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results. Do you think that your prayers have great power? James says that your prayer life can be dynamite! It can be explosive! Is it?
I was reading this morning about King Hezekiah and how God heard his prayers. God destroyed 185,000 Assyrian soldiers in one night just because King Hezekiah humbled himself and prayed for God’s help. God has not changed.
James says that Elijah was a human just like we are, and James suggests that we can pray and God will respond just like He did for Elijah! Wow!
Application
I will pray to my Lord today. Prayer has great power and produces wonderful results.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I want to pray like Hezekiah and Elijah. I want my prayers to have great power and want them to produce wonderful results just like Your word says. Thank You for allowing us to pray. Thank You for hearing us. Help me to be a man of prayer. You are the Lord of Heaven’s armies. Nothing is too hard for You!
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2 Kings 18; 2 Kings 19; 2 Chronicles 32; James 5
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
The Power of Prayer
13 Are any of you suffering hardships? You should pray. Are any of you happy? You should sing praises.
14 Are any of you sick? You should call for the elders of the church to come and pray over you, anointing you with oil in the name of the Lord. 15 Such a prayer offered in faith will heal the sick, and the Lord will make you well. And if you have committed any sins, you will be forgiven.
16 Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results.
17 Elijah was as human as we are, and yet when he prayed earnestly that no rain would fall, none fell for three and a half years! 18 Then, when he prayed again, the sky sent down rain and the earth began to yield its crops.
Observation
The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results. Do you think that your prayers have great power? James says that your prayer life can be dynamite! It can be explosive! Is it?
I was reading this morning about King Hezekiah and how God heard his prayers. God destroyed 185,000 Assyrian soldiers in one night just because King Hezekiah humbled himself and prayed for God’s help. God has not changed.
James says that Elijah was a human just like we are, and James suggests that we can pray and God will respond just like He did for Elijah! Wow!
Application
I will pray to my Lord today. Prayer has great power and produces wonderful results.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I want to pray like Hezekiah and Elijah. I want my prayers to have great power and want them to produce wonderful results just like Your word says. Thank You for allowing us to pray. Thank You for hearing us. Help me to be a man of prayer. You are the Lord of Heaven’s armies. Nothing is too hard for You!
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Monday, July 20, 2009
Humility = Formula for Success!
2 Chronicles 29; 2 Chronicles 30; 2 Chronicles 31; James 4
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Scripture
James 4
7 So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
8 Come close to God, and God will come close to you.
Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world.
9 Let there be tears for what you have done. Let there be sorrow and deep grief. Let there be sadness instead of laughter, and gloom instead of joy.
10 Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up in honor.
Observation
King Hezekiah humbled himself before the Lord and God honored him and blessed the people. He put God first and God gave him success. You can read about it in 2 Chronicles 29 in today’s reading.
Humility is the key to success. Realizing that we are not God and we need to draw close to Him. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. If you don’t resist the devil he will be all over you.
Humble yourself before the Lord this morning. Go to Him for help. Let Him be your strength. Don’t go out to face Monday in your own strength. Don’t be arrogant. Don’t be stupid. Come close to God and God will come close to you.
Application
I am resisting the Devil and I am drawing close to God today. How about you?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I know that I cannot live this day successfully without You. I want to draw close to You today. I want You close to me. Help me resist the Devil. I don’t want to give him a foothold in my life today.
Thank You for all that You are doing in our church. I pray that you keep working in the lives of our people and that all of us will humble ourselves and seek Your face.
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2 Chronicles 29; 2 Chronicles 30; 2 Chronicles 31; James 4
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Scripture
James 4
7 So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
8 Come close to God, and God will come close to you.
Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world.
9 Let there be tears for what you have done. Let there be sorrow and deep grief. Let there be sadness instead of laughter, and gloom instead of joy.
10 Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up in honor.
Observation
King Hezekiah humbled himself before the Lord and God honored him and blessed the people. He put God first and God gave him success. You can read about it in 2 Chronicles 29 in today’s reading.
Humility is the key to success. Realizing that we are not God and we need to draw close to Him. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. If you don’t resist the devil he will be all over you.
Humble yourself before the Lord this morning. Go to Him for help. Let Him be your strength. Don’t go out to face Monday in your own strength. Don’t be arrogant. Don’t be stupid. Come close to God and God will come close to you.
Application
I am resisting the Devil and I am drawing close to God today. How about you?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I know that I cannot live this day successfully without You. I want to draw close to You today. I want You close to me. Help me resist the Devil. I don’t want to give him a foothold in my life today.
Thank You for all that You are doing in our church. I pray that you keep working in the lives of our people and that all of us will humble ourselves and seek Your face.
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Sunday, July 19, 2009
Be Still, and Know that I am God!
2 Kings 17; 2 Chronicles 28; Psalm 46; James 3
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Scripture
Psalm 46
10 “Be still, and know that I am God!
I will be honored by every nation.
I will be honored throughout the world.”
11 The LORD of Heaven’s Armies is here among us;
the God of Israel is our fortress.
Observation
Here is a promise: God will be honored by every nation. He will be honored throughout the world! The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us; the God of Israel is our fortress.
What a huge promise! God is not worrying about what is happening in our world. He is in control. No matter what He will be honored by every nation. He will be honored throughout the entire world. This will happen! I want to be a part of His being honored throughout the world. How about you?
Application
I will look at how I can be a part of God being honored by every nation!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I want to be a part of your being honored by every nation. I am ready to take the Good News to where ever you want me to go. Just show me what I need to do. I will be obedient to do what you put on my heart.
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2 Kings 17; 2 Chronicles 28; Psalm 46; James 3
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Scripture
Psalm 46
10 “Be still, and know that I am God!
I will be honored by every nation.
I will be honored throughout the world.”
11 The LORD of Heaven’s Armies is here among us;
the God of Israel is our fortress.
Observation
Here is a promise: God will be honored by every nation. He will be honored throughout the world! The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us; the God of Israel is our fortress.
What a huge promise! God is not worrying about what is happening in our world. He is in control. No matter what He will be honored by every nation. He will be honored throughout the entire world. This will happen! I want to be a part of His being honored throughout the world. How about you?
Application
I will look at how I can be a part of God being honored by every nation!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I want to be a part of your being honored by every nation. I am ready to take the Good News to where ever you want me to go. Just show me what I need to do. I will be obedient to do what you put on my heart.
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Saturday, July 18, 2009
Doing Good Works!
Isaiah 32; Isaiah 33; Isaiah 34; Isaiah 35; James 2
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Scripture
James 2
Faith without Good Deeds Is Dead
14 What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don’t show it by your actions? Can that kind of faith save anyone? 15 Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothing, 16 and you say, “Good-bye and have a good day; stay warm and eat well”—but then you don’t give that person any food or clothing. What good does that do?
17 So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless.
18 Now someone may argue, “Some people have faith; others have good deeds.” But I say, “How can you show me your faith if you don’t have good deeds? I will show you my faith by my good deeds.”
19 You say you have faith, for you believe that there is one God. Good for you! Even the demons believe this, and they tremble in terror. 20 How foolish! Can’t you see that faith without good deeds is useless?
Observation
Most people believe that they are saved by doing good deeds and even though that is not true our good works should show that we are people of faith. Our lives should be full of good works because of our relationship with Christ.
Unless the faith we have produces good works it is useless! Lets take a minute and look back over this past week and make a list of all the good deeds you have done. How short is your list? Do you have anything on your list?
We don’t do good works to try to earn a place in Heaven because that would be useless, but are we doing good works as a result of our faith in Christ that is the big question? How selfish or selfless are we?
Application
I will look for opportunities to do good this week.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me do things for people out of my faith that I have for You. Help me constantly be looking for ways to do good.
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Isaiah 32; Isaiah 33; Isaiah 34; Isaiah 35; James 2
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Scripture
James 2
Faith without Good Deeds Is Dead
14 What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don’t show it by your actions? Can that kind of faith save anyone? 15 Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothing, 16 and you say, “Good-bye and have a good day; stay warm and eat well”—but then you don’t give that person any food or clothing. What good does that do?
17 So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless.
18 Now someone may argue, “Some people have faith; others have good deeds.” But I say, “How can you show me your faith if you don’t have good deeds? I will show you my faith by my good deeds.”
19 You say you have faith, for you believe that there is one God. Good for you! Even the demons believe this, and they tremble in terror. 20 How foolish! Can’t you see that faith without good deeds is useless?
Observation
Most people believe that they are saved by doing good deeds and even though that is not true our good works should show that we are people of faith. Our lives should be full of good works because of our relationship with Christ.
Unless the faith we have produces good works it is useless! Lets take a minute and look back over this past week and make a list of all the good deeds you have done. How short is your list? Do you have anything on your list?
We don’t do good works to try to earn a place in Heaven because that would be useless, but are we doing good works as a result of our faith in Christ that is the big question? How selfish or selfless are we?
Application
I will look for opportunities to do good this week.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me do things for people out of my faith that I have for You. Help me constantly be looking for ways to do good.
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Friday, July 17, 2009
His Prized Possession! Wow!
Isaiah 29; Isaiah 30; Isaiah 31; James 1
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Scripture
James 1
18…And we, out of all creation, became his prized possession.
Observation
God created everything around us. He created stuff that we cannot even see, because it is either too big or too small. But out of everything that He created we are His prized possession. He owns everything. He has created everything. Out of everything that He owns we are His prized possession. Think about that as you go about your day today.
We are the apple(s) of His eye. He delights in us.
Application
I will thank Him today for delighting in me! I don’t deserve it.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for making me Your prized possession. I don’t deserve it. Thank You for giving me everything I need to live out this life here on earth. I am reminded again today that this is not my home. I am Heaven bound and Heaven is where I will live forever! Thank You for smiling on me. I pray that Your face would continue to shine on me and on my family. Thank you for being so good to me!
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Isaiah 29; Isaiah 30; Isaiah 31; James 1
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Scripture
James 1
18…And we, out of all creation, became his prized possession.
Observation
God created everything around us. He created stuff that we cannot even see, because it is either too big or too small. But out of everything that He created we are His prized possession. He owns everything. He has created everything. Out of everything that He owns we are His prized possession. Think about that as you go about your day today.
We are the apple(s) of His eye. He delights in us.
Application
I will thank Him today for delighting in me! I don’t deserve it.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for making me Your prized possession. I don’t deserve it. Thank You for giving me everything I need to live out this life here on earth. I am reminded again today that this is not my home. I am Heaven bound and Heaven is where I will live forever! Thank You for smiling on me. I pray that Your face would continue to shine on me and on my family. Thank you for being so good to me!
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Thursday, July 16, 2009
Being Satisfied In a “Happy Meal” World
Isaiah 25; Isaiah 26; Isaiah 27; Isaiah 28; Hebrews 13
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Scripture
Hebrews 13
5 Don’t love money; be satisfied with what you have. For God has said,
“I will never fail you.
I will never abandon you.”
6 So we can say with confidence,
“The LORD is my helper,
so I will have no fear.
What can mere people do to me?”
Observation
Our country is going through a terrible time right now, but it is not all bad. Our worship of “stuff” needs to come to an end. I don’t like the fact that we are going to be placed under a load of debt by our government, but it may help us place our dependence on the Lord.
We have grown up with the “Happy Meal” mentality, which really causes us not to be satisfied with what we have. Our nation has become notorious around the world for consuming everything on ourselves to feed our insatiable appetites for more and more stuff. Have you ever experienced a child demanding, screaming, and pitching a fit, over a “Happy Meal” or throwing a temper tantrum because you said that they couldn’t have a “Happy Meal”?
Look at the mess we have gotten ourselves into with godless living seeking to satisfy our desire to have more and more stuff. It only brings misery, not joy!
Application
I will be satisfied with what I have.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to be satisfied with what I have. Don’t let me depend on the things of this world to meet my needs. I know that You will never fail me. You will never abandon me. I can say with confidence, “The LORD is my helper, I will have no fear. What can mere people do to me?” You are everything I need. Help me to be content with what I have.
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Isaiah 25; Isaiah 26; Isaiah 27; Isaiah 28; Hebrews 13
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Scripture
Hebrews 13
5 Don’t love money; be satisfied with what you have. For God has said,
“I will never fail you.
I will never abandon you.”
6 So we can say with confidence,
“The LORD is my helper,
so I will have no fear.
What can mere people do to me?”
Observation
Our country is going through a terrible time right now, but it is not all bad. Our worship of “stuff” needs to come to an end. I don’t like the fact that we are going to be placed under a load of debt by our government, but it may help us place our dependence on the Lord.
We have grown up with the “Happy Meal” mentality, which really causes us not to be satisfied with what we have. Our nation has become notorious around the world for consuming everything on ourselves to feed our insatiable appetites for more and more stuff. Have you ever experienced a child demanding, screaming, and pitching a fit, over a “Happy Meal” or throwing a temper tantrum because you said that they couldn’t have a “Happy Meal”?
Look at the mess we have gotten ourselves into with godless living seeking to satisfy our desire to have more and more stuff. It only brings misery, not joy!
Application
I will be satisfied with what I have.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to be satisfied with what I have. Don’t let me depend on the things of this world to meet my needs. I know that You will never fail me. You will never abandon me. I can say with confidence, “The LORD is my helper, I will have no fear. What can mere people do to me?” You are everything I need. Help me to be content with what I have.
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Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Unshakable!
Isaiah 22; Isaiah 23; Isaiah 24; Hebrews 12
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Scripture
Hebrews 12
28 Since we are receiving a Kingdom that is unshakable, let us be thankful and please God by worshiping him with holy fear and awe. 29 For our God is a devouring fire.
Observation
We are living in such a messed up tossed up kind of world today. Nothing seems secure and everything we hold as precious seems to be under attack. There is no security in the work place, families are falling apart, our government seems to have lost its direction, and everything seems up in the air.
I am glad that we are receiving a Kingdom that is unshakable. How about you?
Application
I will keep my eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects my faith!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to keep my eyes on Jesus and not on the circumstances around me. Help me to stay focused on the kingdom that is unshakable. I will be thankful today and I will worship You. This is not my home. My citizenship is in Heaven with You.
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Isaiah 22; Isaiah 23; Isaiah 24; Hebrews 12
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Scripture
Hebrews 12
28 Since we are receiving a Kingdom that is unshakable, let us be thankful and please God by worshiping him with holy fear and awe. 29 For our God is a devouring fire.
Observation
We are living in such a messed up tossed up kind of world today. Nothing seems secure and everything we hold as precious seems to be under attack. There is no security in the work place, families are falling apart, our government seems to have lost its direction, and everything seems up in the air.
I am glad that we are receiving a Kingdom that is unshakable. How about you?
Application
I will keep my eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects my faith!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to keep my eyes on Jesus and not on the circumstances around me. Help me to stay focused on the kingdom that is unshakable. I will be thankful today and I will worship You. This is not my home. My citizenship is in Heaven with You.
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Tuesday, July 14, 2009
F.A.I.T.H. = Forsaking All I Trust Him
Isaiah 19; Isaiah 20; Isaiah 21; Hebrews 11
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Scripture
Hebrews 11
6 And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him.
Observation
The Christian life is a life of faith. Everyday it is all about faith. Trusting in the Lord to take care of us. Trusting in Him to guide me. Putting all my trust in something and Someone that I cannot see because the invisible (what I cannot see or touch) world is more real than the world I can see.
My home is in Heaven that is why I don’t totally feel at home here. I look forward to my heavenly home.
Application
I don’t want to get too comfortable here because this is not my home. I need to be about Kingdom business.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, give me Your eyes and Your heart so that I can see things from Your perspective. Help me to live by faith and not by sight. Help me to be a man of faith. It is my desire to please You today.
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Isaiah 19; Isaiah 20; Isaiah 21; Hebrews 11
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Scripture
Hebrews 11
6 And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him.
Observation
The Christian life is a life of faith. Everyday it is all about faith. Trusting in the Lord to take care of us. Trusting in Him to guide me. Putting all my trust in something and Someone that I cannot see because the invisible (what I cannot see or touch) world is more real than the world I can see.
My home is in Heaven that is why I don’t totally feel at home here. I look forward to my heavenly home.
Application
I don’t want to get too comfortable here because this is not my home. I need to be about Kingdom business.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, give me Your eyes and Your heart so that I can see things from Your perspective. Help me to live by faith and not by sight. Help me to be a man of faith. It is my desire to please You today.
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Monday, July 13, 2009
Drifting Away
Isaiah 15; Isaiah 16; Isaiah 17; Isaiah 18; Hebrews 10
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Scripture
Hebrews 10
24 Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. 25 And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near. (NLT)
........
24 And let us consider and give attentive, continuous care to watching over one another, studying how we may stir up (stimulate and incite) to love and helpful deeds and noble activities,
25 Not forsaking or neglecting to assemble together [as believers], as is the habit of some people, but admonishing (warning, urging, and encouraging) one another, and all the more faithfully as you see the day approaching. (Amplified)
Observation
I see people drift away from church especially during the summer months and I wonder what happens to make them begin to drift. Some will wake up and come back, but others will stay away getting further and further away from the Lord and church.
It is our job not to drift away and it is our job to encourage those drifting away to get back into church by warning, urging, and encouraging.
Application
There are several drifters that I need to call this week. How about you?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me not to get discouraged by the lack of commitment that I see in people that are drifting away from the body of Christ. Give me the strength to stay after them until they are back faithfully serving You. Help me not to drift. Help me stay focused on the important things in my Christian life. Don’t let me drift away from my close relationship to You. Show me who I need to call today. Help me to be an encourager today.
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Isaiah 15; Isaiah 16; Isaiah 17; Isaiah 18; Hebrews 10
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Scripture
Hebrews 10
24 Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. 25 And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near. (NLT)
........
24 And let us consider and give attentive, continuous care to watching over one another, studying how we may stir up (stimulate and incite) to love and helpful deeds and noble activities,
25 Not forsaking or neglecting to assemble together [as believers], as is the habit of some people, but admonishing (warning, urging, and encouraging) one another, and all the more faithfully as you see the day approaching. (Amplified)
Observation
I see people drift away from church especially during the summer months and I wonder what happens to make them begin to drift. Some will wake up and come back, but others will stay away getting further and further away from the Lord and church.
It is our job not to drift away and it is our job to encourage those drifting away to get back into church by warning, urging, and encouraging.
Application
There are several drifters that I need to call this week. How about you?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me not to get discouraged by the lack of commitment that I see in people that are drifting away from the body of Christ. Give me the strength to stay after them until they are back faithfully serving You. Help me not to drift. Help me stay focused on the important things in my Christian life. Don’t let me drift away from my close relationship to You. Show me who I need to call today. Help me to be an encourager today.
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Sunday, July 12, 2009
The Perfect Sacrifice
Isaiah 11; Isaiah 12; Isaiah 13; Isaiah 14; Hebrews 9
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Scripture
Hebrews 9
24 For Christ did not enter into a holy place made with human hands, which was only a copy of the true one in heaven. He entered into heaven itself to appear now before God on our behalf.
25 And he did not enter heaven to offer himself again and again, like the high priest here on earth who enters the Most Holy Place year after year with the blood of an animal.
26 If that had been necessary, Christ would have had to die again and again, ever since the world began. But now, once for all time, he has appeared at the end of the age to remove sin by his own death as a sacrifice.
27 And just as each person is destined to die once and after that comes judgment,
28 so also Christ died once for all time as a sacrifice to take away the sins of many people. He will come again, not to deal with our sins, but to bring salvation to all who are eagerly waiting for him.
Observation
Heaven is a perfect place. You and I are not perfect. How can we as sinners enter into a place were God does not allow sin?
Jesus took care of that problem when He provided the perfect sacrifice. He died to remove sin by his own death as a sacrifice.
All of us are going to die and we are all going to face judgment. Will you go to heaven or hell when you die? It depends totally on whether you are putting your faith and trust in Jesus to take away your sins. He died once and He has now entered into the perfect Most Holy Place and he is interceding on behalf of all of those that have placed their trust in Him.
If you were to die today, where would you spend eternity? Heaven or Hell?
Application
The Gospel message is for everyone. I want to boldly share my faith this week.
Pray
Heavenly Father, give me the boldness and the desire to share my faith with people this week. I pray that You continue to save people that are attending our worship services. I pray that Your Holy Spirit would continue to bring conviction to everyone that attends our church today.
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Isaiah 11; Isaiah 12; Isaiah 13; Isaiah 14; Hebrews 9
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Scripture
Hebrews 9
24 For Christ did not enter into a holy place made with human hands, which was only a copy of the true one in heaven. He entered into heaven itself to appear now before God on our behalf.
25 And he did not enter heaven to offer himself again and again, like the high priest here on earth who enters the Most Holy Place year after year with the blood of an animal.
26 If that had been necessary, Christ would have had to die again and again, ever since the world began. But now, once for all time, he has appeared at the end of the age to remove sin by his own death as a sacrifice.
27 And just as each person is destined to die once and after that comes judgment,
28 so also Christ died once for all time as a sacrifice to take away the sins of many people. He will come again, not to deal with our sins, but to bring salvation to all who are eagerly waiting for him.
Observation
Heaven is a perfect place. You and I are not perfect. How can we as sinners enter into a place were God does not allow sin?
Jesus took care of that problem when He provided the perfect sacrifice. He died to remove sin by his own death as a sacrifice.
All of us are going to die and we are all going to face judgment. Will you go to heaven or hell when you die? It depends totally on whether you are putting your faith and trust in Jesus to take away your sins. He died once and He has now entered into the perfect Most Holy Place and he is interceding on behalf of all of those that have placed their trust in Him.
If you were to die today, where would you spend eternity? Heaven or Hell?
Application
The Gospel message is for everyone. I want to boldly share my faith this week.
Pray
Heavenly Father, give me the boldness and the desire to share my faith with people this week. I pray that You continue to save people that are attending our worship services. I pray that Your Holy Spirit would continue to bring conviction to everyone that attends our church today.
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Saturday, July 11, 2009
What is Jesus Doing Right Now?
Isaiah 8; Isaiah 9; Isaiah 10; Hebrews 8
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Scripture
Hebrews 8
1 Here is the main point: We have a High Priest who sat down in the place of honor beside the throne of the majestic God in heaven. 2 There he ministers in the heavenly Tabernacle, the true place of worship that was built by the Lord and not by human hands.
Observation
He is our High Priest and He is interceding for us right now. He is on His throne at the right hand of God the Father.
Application
I am a child of God. I have the Son of God as my high priest who is interceding on my behalf. I am blessed.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Your Son to die in my place for my sins. Thank You for providing a High Priest that is at Your right hand that is interceding for me and for others that call on You. You are Wonderful and Mighty and totally worthy to be praised! Amen.
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Isaiah 8; Isaiah 9; Isaiah 10; Hebrews 8
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Scripture
Hebrews 8
1 Here is the main point: We have a High Priest who sat down in the place of honor beside the throne of the majestic God in heaven. 2 There he ministers in the heavenly Tabernacle, the true place of worship that was built by the Lord and not by human hands.
Observation
He is our High Priest and He is interceding for us right now. He is on His throne at the right hand of God the Father.
Application
I am a child of God. I have the Son of God as my high priest who is interceding on my behalf. I am blessed.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Your Son to die in my place for my sins. Thank You for providing a High Priest that is at Your right hand that is interceding for me and for others that call on You. You are Wonderful and Mighty and totally worthy to be praised! Amen.
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Friday, July 10, 2009
He Saves Us Once and Forever!
Micah 5; Micah 6; Micah 7; Hebrews 7
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Scripture
Hebrews 7
24 But because Jesus lives forever, his priesthood lasts forever. 25 Therefore he is able, once and forever, to save those who come to God through him. He lives forever to intercede with God on their behalf.
Observation
If you have come to God through Jesus Christ then He is able to once and forever to save you. How long is forever? It is a very, very long time! In fact, He lives forever to intercede for us on our behalf.
Application
I am not worrying about my salvation. It is secure because Jesus, my high priest has offered His body as a sacrifice to take away the penalty of my sins.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for Jesus. Thank You for my salvation!
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Micah 5; Micah 6; Micah 7; Hebrews 7
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Scripture
Hebrews 7
24 But because Jesus lives forever, his priesthood lasts forever. 25 Therefore he is able, once and forever, to save those who come to God through him. He lives forever to intercede with God on their behalf.
Observation
If you have come to God through Jesus Christ then He is able to once and forever to save you. How long is forever? It is a very, very long time! In fact, He lives forever to intercede for us on our behalf.
Application
I am not worrying about my salvation. It is secure because Jesus, my high priest has offered His body as a sacrifice to take away the penalty of my sins.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for Jesus. Thank You for my salvation!
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Thursday, July 09, 2009
Anchor For Our Souls!
Micah 1; Micah 2; Micah 3; Micah 4; Hebrews 6
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Scripture
Hebrews 6
…Therefore, we who have fled to him for refuge can have great confidence as we hold to the hope that lies before us. 19 This hope is a strong and trustworthy anchor for our souls. It leads us through the curtain into God’s inner sanctuary. 20 Jesus has already gone in there for us. He has become our eternal High Priest in the order of Melchizedek.
Observation
When the trouble of life comes at you do you have an anchor for your soul? This week with the death of Kathy’s Mom I have been reminded that life is short even when the person lives to be 94 years old it is still short! Our lives will come to an end and you and I need to be ready. Trouble, tragedy, and heartache will come our way and if we don’t have an anchor for our souls will be tossed and turned without hope.
My hope is in Christ. How about yours? He is my anchor. Is He your anchor? Does your soul have an anchor? If you don’t know Christ then the answer to that question is “NO”. Surrender your life to Him today. Don’t wait…today is the right time!
Application
I know that my Anchor will get us through these difficult days. Jesus is the lifter up of my head!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I pray that Jesus would be glorified through the funeral service today. I pray that those that don’t know Christ would be drawn closer to Him today.
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Micah 1; Micah 2; Micah 3; Micah 4; Hebrews 6
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Hebrews 6
…Therefore, we who have fled to him for refuge can have great confidence as we hold to the hope that lies before us. 19 This hope is a strong and trustworthy anchor for our souls. It leads us through the curtain into God’s inner sanctuary. 20 Jesus has already gone in there for us. He has become our eternal High Priest in the order of Melchizedek.
Observation
When the trouble of life comes at you do you have an anchor for your soul? This week with the death of Kathy’s Mom I have been reminded that life is short even when the person lives to be 94 years old it is still short! Our lives will come to an end and you and I need to be ready. Trouble, tragedy, and heartache will come our way and if we don’t have an anchor for our souls will be tossed and turned without hope.
My hope is in Christ. How about yours? He is my anchor. Is He your anchor? Does your soul have an anchor? If you don’t know Christ then the answer to that question is “NO”. Surrender your life to Him today. Don’t wait…today is the right time!
Application
I know that my Anchor will get us through these difficult days. Jesus is the lifter up of my head!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I pray that Jesus would be glorified through the funeral service today. I pray that those that don’t know Christ would be drawn closer to Him today.
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Wednesday, July 08, 2009
Give Thanks!
Hosea 13; Hosea 14; Psalm 100; Psalm 101; Psalm 102; Hebrews 5
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Scripture
Psalm 100
A psalm of thanksgiving.
1 Shout with joy to the LORD, all the earth!
2 Worship the LORD with gladness.
Come before him, singing with joy.
3 Acknowledge that the LORD is God!
He made us, and we are his.
We are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving;
go into his courts with praise.
Give thanks to him and praise his name.
5 For the LORD is good.
His unfailing love continues forever,
and his faithfulness continues to each generation.
Observation
No matter how bad things are we can always find reason to give thanks. Even though we have lost someone very close to us this week we know that she is better off now than she was here on this earth. We can give thanks for the assurance of knowing that she is in heaven right now!
Application
Thanks to God for His wonderful promises!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for all Your wonderful promises! Thank You for the assurance of knowing that heaven is our real home.
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Hosea 13; Hosea 14; Psalm 100; Psalm 101; Psalm 102; Hebrews 5
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Psalm 100
A psalm of thanksgiving.
1 Shout with joy to the LORD, all the earth!
2 Worship the LORD with gladness.
Come before him, singing with joy.
3 Acknowledge that the LORD is God!
He made us, and we are his.
We are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving;
go into his courts with praise.
Give thanks to him and praise his name.
5 For the LORD is good.
His unfailing love continues forever,
and his faithfulness continues to each generation.
Observation
No matter how bad things are we can always find reason to give thanks. Even though we have lost someone very close to us this week we know that she is better off now than she was here on this earth. We can give thanks for the assurance of knowing that she is in heaven right now!
Application
Thanks to God for His wonderful promises!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for all Your wonderful promises! Thank You for the assurance of knowing that heaven is our real home.
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Tuesday, July 07, 2009
My Health May Fail, But God Remains the Strength of My Heart!
Hosea 10; Hosea 11; Hosea 12; Psalm 73; Hebrews 4
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Scripture
Psalm 73
25 Whom have I in heaven but you?
I desire you more than anything on earth.
26 My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak,
but God remains the strength of my heart;
he is mine forever.
Observation
Kathy’s Mom passed away on Monday, July 6th. The stroke had left her where she could no longer speak, but she could sing. Verse 26 reminds me of my Mother-in-law during these last days, “My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart; he is mine forever.” She could not speak but she could sing and she sang “In the Garden”. Her health had failed but God remained the strength of her heart.
Application
I hope I can have that kind of faith during my last days on this earth!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I pray that the godly influence of my Mother-in-law’s (Hazel Bearden) life will continue to move her family closer to Jesus!
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Hosea 10; Hosea 11; Hosea 12; Psalm 73; Hebrews 4
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Scripture
Psalm 73
25 Whom have I in heaven but you?
I desire you more than anything on earth.
26 My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak,
but God remains the strength of my heart;
he is mine forever.
Observation
Kathy’s Mom passed away on Monday, July 6th. The stroke had left her where she could no longer speak, but she could sing. Verse 26 reminds me of my Mother-in-law during these last days, “My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart; he is mine forever.” She could not speak but she could sing and she sang “In the Garden”. Her health had failed but God remained the strength of her heart.
Application
I hope I can have that kind of faith during my last days on this earth!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I pray that the godly influence of my Mother-in-law’s (Hazel Bearden) life will continue to move her family closer to Jesus!
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Monday, July 06, 2009
Worship the Creator Not Creation!
Hosea 6; Hosea 7; Hosea 8; Hosea 9; Hebrews 3
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Scripture
Hebrews 3
3 But Jesus deserves far more glory than Moses, just as a person who builds a house deserves more praise than the house itself. 4 For every house has a builder, but the one who built everything is God.
Observation
We are staying out at the beach this week and are having the opportunity to enjoy all that God has created. I guess there is the temptation to worship His creation and make it like an idol rather than letting His creation bring Him glory. Last night was our family’s annual crab hunt on the beach and we did exceptionally well. In fact, we have never caught so many crabs so quickly.
Maybe it was also so successful because my granddaughters are growing up and they are a lot better now at spotting crabs! It was beautiful on the beach with the moon shining and the waves crashing down.
Application
I will worship the Creator not His creation!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me not to lose sight of the fact that all of Your creation is supposed to bring You glory. Help me to worship You this week as we enjoy everything that You have created. You are a Mighty and Powerful God.
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Hosea 6; Hosea 7; Hosea 8; Hosea 9; Hebrews 3
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Scripture
Hebrews 3
3 But Jesus deserves far more glory than Moses, just as a person who builds a house deserves more praise than the house itself. 4 For every house has a builder, but the one who built everything is God.
Observation
We are staying out at the beach this week and are having the opportunity to enjoy all that God has created. I guess there is the temptation to worship His creation and make it like an idol rather than letting His creation bring Him glory. Last night was our family’s annual crab hunt on the beach and we did exceptionally well. In fact, we have never caught so many crabs so quickly.
Maybe it was also so successful because my granddaughters are growing up and they are a lot better now at spotting crabs! It was beautiful on the beach with the moon shining and the waves crashing down.
Application
I will worship the Creator not His creation!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me not to lose sight of the fact that all of Your creation is supposed to bring You glory. Help me to worship You this week as we enjoy everything that You have created. You are a Mighty and Powerful God.
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Sunday, July 05, 2009
Because We Are Human Jesus also Became a Human Being!
Hosea 2; Hosea 3; Hosea 4; Hosea 5; Hebrews 2
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Scripture
Hebrews 2
14 Because God’s children are human beings—made of flesh and blood—the Son also became flesh and blood. For only as a human being could he die, and only by dying could he break the power of the devil, who had the power of death. 15 Only in this way could he set free all who have lived their lives as slaves to the fear of dying.
Observation
God’s children are human beings and that is why Jesus became a human being so that He could die. He died to break the power of the devil, who had the power of death…HAD!
Jesus has conquered death! We have been set free!
Application
I have been set free from the power of death and I have been set free from the power of sin.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, guide me during these days of vacation. Help me bring You glory because of the way I live, and by the choices I make
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Hosea 2; Hosea 3; Hosea 4; Hosea 5; Hebrews 2
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Scripture
Hebrews 2
14 Because God’s children are human beings—made of flesh and blood—the Son also became flesh and blood. For only as a human being could he die, and only by dying could he break the power of the devil, who had the power of death. 15 Only in this way could he set free all who have lived their lives as slaves to the fear of dying.
Observation
God’s children are human beings and that is why Jesus became a human being so that He could die. He died to break the power of the devil, who had the power of death…HAD!
Jesus has conquered death! We have been set free!
Application
I have been set free from the power of death and I have been set free from the power of sin.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, guide me during these days of vacation. Help me bring You glory because of the way I live, and by the choices I make
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Saturday, July 04, 2009
Angels, Angels, Angels!
2 Kings 15; 2 Kings 16; Hosea 1; Hebrews 1
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Scripture
5 For God never said to any angel what he said to Jesus:
“You are my Son.
Today I have become your Father.”
God also said,
“I will be his Father,
and he will be my Son.”
6 And when he brought his firstborn Son into the world, God said,
“Let all of God’s angels worship him.”
7 Regarding the angels, he says,
“He sends his angels like the winds,
his servants like flames of fire.”
14 Therefore, angels are only servants—spirits sent to care for people who will inherit salvation.
Observation
Some people today seem to worship angels just like they must have been doing when God had someone write the book of Hebrews. Angels have been sent to care for us. I believe that I have an angel watching over me. They have been sent to care for those that belong to Christ!
The writer of Hebrews begins his book by showing that Christ is so much more important than Angels. He created our universe. He is also the One that sustains everything by his Mighty Power! He does it so that all creation will bring glory to God the Father. Angels are created beings created to bring glory to God just like we are supposed to do.
Application
I will worship the Creator as I go to the beach this week. And I as enjoy His wonderful creation I will give Him Praise!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the Angel that watches over me. I know that I keep him busy. I pray that this week You help me to bring You glory and honor. I pray that You keep our entire family safe as we enjoy the beach. Thank You for creating such a beautiful place for us to enjoy. You are a Mighty Creator God! Amen.
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2 Kings 15; 2 Kings 16; Hosea 1; Hebrews 1
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Scripture
5 For God never said to any angel what he said to Jesus:
“You are my Son.
Today I have become your Father.”
God also said,
“I will be his Father,
and he will be my Son.”
6 And when he brought his firstborn Son into the world, God said,
“Let all of God’s angels worship him.”
7 Regarding the angels, he says,
“He sends his angels like the winds,
his servants like flames of fire.”
14 Therefore, angels are only servants—spirits sent to care for people who will inherit salvation.
Observation
Some people today seem to worship angels just like they must have been doing when God had someone write the book of Hebrews. Angels have been sent to care for us. I believe that I have an angel watching over me. They have been sent to care for those that belong to Christ!
The writer of Hebrews begins his book by showing that Christ is so much more important than Angels. He created our universe. He is also the One that sustains everything by his Mighty Power! He does it so that all creation will bring glory to God the Father. Angels are created beings created to bring glory to God just like we are supposed to do.
Application
I will worship the Creator as I go to the beach this week. And I as enjoy His wonderful creation I will give Him Praise!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the Angel that watches over me. I know that I keep him busy. I pray that this week You help me to bring You glory and honor. I pray that You keep our entire family safe as we enjoy the beach. Thank You for creating such a beautiful place for us to enjoy. You are a Mighty Creator God! Amen.
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Friday, July 03, 2009
Onesimus … is Now Useful!
Isaiah 6; Isaiah 7; 2 Chronicles 26; 2 Chronicles 27; Philemon 1
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Scripture
Philemon 1
8 That is why I am boldly asking a favor of you. I could demand it in the name of Christ because it is the right thing for you to do. 9 But because of our love, I prefer simply to ask you. Consider this as a request from me—Paul, an old man and now also a prisoner for the sake of Christ Jesus.
10 I appeal to you to show kindness to my child, Onesimus. I became his father in the faith while here in prison. 11 Onesimus hasn’t been of much use to you in the past, but now he is very useful to both of us. 12 I am sending him back to you, and with him comes my own heart.
13 I wanted to keep him here with me while I am in these chains for preaching the Good News, and he would have helped me on your behalf. 14 But I didn’t want to do anything without your consent. I wanted you to help because you were willing, not because you were forced.
15 It seems you lost Onesimus for a little while so that you could have him back forever. 16 He is no longer like a slave to you. He is more than a slave, for he is a beloved brother, especially to me. Now he will mean much more to you, both as a man and as a brother in the Lord.
17 So if you consider me your partner, welcome him as you would welcome me. 18 If he has wronged you in any way or owes you anything, charge it to me.
19 I, PAUL, WRITE THIS WITH MY OWN HAND: I WILL REPAY IT. AND I WON’T MENTION THAT YOU OWE ME YOUR VERY SOUL!
20 Yes, my brother, please do me this favor for the Lord’s sake. Give me this encouragement in Christ.
21 I am confident as I write this letter that you will do what I ask and even more!
Observation
Onesimus was a run away slave that happened to run straight into the life of the Apostle Paul. Paul led Onesimus to Christ and it is obvious that Onesimus had become very useful now in the faith.
Onesimus had a serious problem. He had run away from his master. Paul took care of the problem by writing a letter to Onesimus’ owner who just happened to be someone else that Paul had led to the Lord. It is a small world. It is always a small world for God when He wants to do something in someone’s life. Nothing is too hard for Him. He can make everything work out so that the person finds Christ!
Paul told Philemon that he would pay any expense that Onesimus had caused him. Paul stood up for Onesimus. You and I need to stand up for people. We have to take risks sometimes with people when no one else wants to support them.
Who needs your help today?
Application
Help me stand up for the Onesimus(s) that You bring into my life!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me stand up for people. Help me see their worth like Paul was able to see the value in the life of Onesimus.
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Isaiah 6; Isaiah 7; 2 Chronicles 26; 2 Chronicles 27; Philemon 1
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Scripture
Philemon 1
8 That is why I am boldly asking a favor of you. I could demand it in the name of Christ because it is the right thing for you to do. 9 But because of our love, I prefer simply to ask you. Consider this as a request from me—Paul, an old man and now also a prisoner for the sake of Christ Jesus.
10 I appeal to you to show kindness to my child, Onesimus. I became his father in the faith while here in prison. 11 Onesimus hasn’t been of much use to you in the past, but now he is very useful to both of us. 12 I am sending him back to you, and with him comes my own heart.
13 I wanted to keep him here with me while I am in these chains for preaching the Good News, and he would have helped me on your behalf. 14 But I didn’t want to do anything without your consent. I wanted you to help because you were willing, not because you were forced.
15 It seems you lost Onesimus for a little while so that you could have him back forever. 16 He is no longer like a slave to you. He is more than a slave, for he is a beloved brother, especially to me. Now he will mean much more to you, both as a man and as a brother in the Lord.
17 So if you consider me your partner, welcome him as you would welcome me. 18 If he has wronged you in any way or owes you anything, charge it to me.
19 I, PAUL, WRITE THIS WITH MY OWN HAND: I WILL REPAY IT. AND I WON’T MENTION THAT YOU OWE ME YOUR VERY SOUL!
20 Yes, my brother, please do me this favor for the Lord’s sake. Give me this encouragement in Christ.
21 I am confident as I write this letter that you will do what I ask and even more!
Observation
Onesimus was a run away slave that happened to run straight into the life of the Apostle Paul. Paul led Onesimus to Christ and it is obvious that Onesimus had become very useful now in the faith.
Onesimus had a serious problem. He had run away from his master. Paul took care of the problem by writing a letter to Onesimus’ owner who just happened to be someone else that Paul had led to the Lord. It is a small world. It is always a small world for God when He wants to do something in someone’s life. Nothing is too hard for Him. He can make everything work out so that the person finds Christ!
Paul told Philemon that he would pay any expense that Onesimus had caused him. Paul stood up for Onesimus. You and I need to stand up for people. We have to take risks sometimes with people when no one else wants to support them.
Who needs your help today?
Application
Help me stand up for the Onesimus(s) that You bring into my life!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me stand up for people. Help me see their worth like Paul was able to see the value in the life of Onesimus.
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Thursday, July 02, 2009
Hate the Sin, but Love the Sinner!
Isaiah 4; Isaiah 5; Psalm 115; Psalm 116; Jude 1
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Scripture
Jude 1
22 And you must show mercy to those whose faith is wavering. 23 Rescue others by snatching them from the flames of judgment. Show mercy to still others, but do so with great caution, hating the sins that contaminate their lives.
Observation
We are in the rescue business! I don’t know about you but it is hard to hate the sin, but love the sinner. I get so aggravated at the destruction that the person’s sin is causing that I have a hard time not feeling the same way about the person as I do about their sin. It is hard.
I have someone that is a secret alcoholic, or at least he thinks it is a secret. And this person has been very hard to help. He will not admit that he has a problem. He denies that he drinks at all. It is sad. He is losing so much by refusing to admit he has a problem. If he would only admit it then he could begin to walk in victory.
In the mean time we have to show mercy, but hating the sin that is contaminating his life. It is hard to do.
Application
I will continue to ask God to help me to love the sinner while I hate the sin.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, give me Your heart of love for unlovely people. I pray that this particular person would quit blaming other people for his problems and I pray that he would admit that he needs help so You can bless him and help him. Don’t let him continue to harm others while he lives in denial.
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Isaiah 4; Isaiah 5; Psalm 115; Psalm 116; Jude 1
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Scripture
Jude 1
22 And you must show mercy to those whose faith is wavering. 23 Rescue others by snatching them from the flames of judgment. Show mercy to still others, but do so with great caution, hating the sins that contaminate their lives.
Observation
We are in the rescue business! I don’t know about you but it is hard to hate the sin, but love the sinner. I get so aggravated at the destruction that the person’s sin is causing that I have a hard time not feeling the same way about the person as I do about their sin. It is hard.
I have someone that is a secret alcoholic, or at least he thinks it is a secret. And this person has been very hard to help. He will not admit that he has a problem. He denies that he drinks at all. It is sad. He is losing so much by refusing to admit he has a problem. If he would only admit it then he could begin to walk in victory.
In the mean time we have to show mercy, but hating the sin that is contaminating his life. It is hard to do.
Application
I will continue to ask God to help me to love the sinner while I hate the sin.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, give me Your heart of love for unlovely people. I pray that this particular person would quit blaming other people for his problems and I pray that he would admit that he needs help so You can bless him and help him. Don’t let him continue to harm others while he lives in denial.
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Wednesday, July 01, 2009
Don’t Trust Mere Humans!
Isaiah 1; Isaiah 2; Isaiah 3; Titus 3
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Scripture
Isaiah 2
22 Don’t put your trust in mere humans.
They are as frail as breath.
What good are they?
Observation
Who or what are you putting your trust in today? If you are putting your trust in mere humans you will be disappointed. They are as frail as breath! Wow…that is pretty frail.
Where should our trust be if it is not supposed to be in another human? Hmmm…how about putting our trust in the LORD of Heaven’s Armies! Great idea! I think that He can take care of us.
There is always a temptation to trust in the things around us, like money or possessions, or people, but they are always going to let us down. Our security needs to rest in the One who created us. The One who loves us. The One who died for us. He is the Lord of Heaven’s Armies. He has all the resources to take care of all of our needs. He does not want us trusting in something else or someone else. He wants to be our Lord and our Savior.
Application
I will trust in the Lord with all my heart and I will not lean on my own understanding. In all my ways I will acknowledge Him and I will let Him direct my path.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to trust in You and not in the things around me. Help me to depend and trust in you and not put my trust in people. You are the Lord of Heaven’s Armies and You are fully capable of taking care of every need that I have. I will put my trust in You.
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Isaiah 1; Isaiah 2; Isaiah 3; Titus 3
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Scripture
Isaiah 2
22 Don’t put your trust in mere humans.
They are as frail as breath.
What good are they?
Observation
Who or what are you putting your trust in today? If you are putting your trust in mere humans you will be disappointed. They are as frail as breath! Wow…that is pretty frail.
Where should our trust be if it is not supposed to be in another human? Hmmm…how about putting our trust in the LORD of Heaven’s Armies! Great idea! I think that He can take care of us.
There is always a temptation to trust in the things around us, like money or possessions, or people, but they are always going to let us down. Our security needs to rest in the One who created us. The One who loves us. The One who died for us. He is the Lord of Heaven’s Armies. He has all the resources to take care of all of our needs. He does not want us trusting in something else or someone else. He wants to be our Lord and our Savior.
Application
I will trust in the Lord with all my heart and I will not lean on my own understanding. In all my ways I will acknowledge Him and I will let Him direct my path.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to trust in You and not in the things around me. Help me to depend and trust in you and not put my trust in people. You are the Lord of Heaven’s Armies and You are fully capable of taking care of every need that I have. I will put my trust in You.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
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