Isaiah 63; Isaiah 64; Psalm 107; John 2
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My Father’s House
Scripture
John 2
Jesus Clears the Temple
13 It was nearly time for the Jewish Passover celebration, so Jesus went to Jerusalem. 14 In the Temple area he saw merchants selling cattle, sheep, and doves for sacrifices; he also saw dealers at tables exchanging foreign money. 15 Jesus made a whip from some ropes and chased them all out of the Temple. He drove out the sheep and cattle, scattered the money changers’ coins over the floor, and turned over their tables. 16 Then, going over to the people who sold doves, he told them, “Get these things out of here. Stop turning my Father’s house into a marketplace!”
17 Then his disciples remembered this prophecy from the Scriptures: “Passion for God’s house will consume me.”
18 But the Jewish leaders demanded, “What are you doing? If God gave you authority to do this, show us a miraculous sign to prove it.”
19 “All right,” Jesus replied. “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.”
20 “What!” they exclaimed. “It has taken forty-six years to build this Temple, and you can rebuild it in three days?” 21 But when Jesus said “this temple,” he meant his own body. 22 After he was raised from the dead, his disciples remembered he had said this, and they believed both the Scriptures and what Jesus had said.
Observation
When we think of going to church we think of a specific place don’t we. Today we are the temple of God, but we still meet together in a place we call “church”. I know that the place where we meet sometimes takes on a sacredness that I don’t think God ever intended.
If you make changes in the place where you meet some people act like you have broken one of the Ten Commandments or something.
What we need to be more concerned about is keeping our bodies a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God. Our bodies need to be unpolluted, sin free, clean, spotless, and a place where God’s Holy Spirit has complete access.
It is easy to get upset about a building we call church when something is done to it that we don’t like, but what we need to be more concerned about is keeping God’s temple clean and that is “us” and our bodies.
Application
What needs to be cleaned out of my life today? I am going to do some soul searching today to make sure this “temple” is where God wants it to be!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, show me anything in my life that needs to go. Show me any sin that I have been holding on to that I need to confess. I want You r Holy Spirit to have free access to every part of my life. I want You to be able to smile as You look at me today. I want Your face to shine on me. I do not want to disappoint You. You are my Lord and my Savior. You are worthy to be praised.
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Saturday, July 31, 2010
Friday, July 30, 2010
At The Right Time!
Isaiah 60; Isaiah 61; Isaiah 62; John 1
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At The Right Time
Scripture
Isaiah 60
22 The smallest family will become a thousand people,
and the tiniest group will become a mighty nation.
At the right time, I, the LORD, will make it happen.”
Observation
I believe that our church is going to take off and really grow, but it is going to be at the right time and it is going to be the Lord that makes it happen!
I hope and pray that we are healthy enough spiritually right now for God to do just that! I would love to see it. I would love to be a part of it.
God’s heart is for the people that do not know Him. His heart is crying out for our city, but we have to be willing to sacrifice everything to be in a position where God can use us to reach our city. We have to die to self.
What holds you back from allowing God to bless our city through you and your family, through your spiritual family your church? What are you willing to sacrifice?
Application
I am willing to lay it all on the line for You today. Everything I have I commit to You. All that I am I commit to You.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I want You to use me and my family and our spiritual family our church to reach this city. Help us to make the necessary sacrifices. I pray that You bless our people and make them people of great faith.
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At The Right Time
Scripture
Isaiah 60
22 The smallest family will become a thousand people,
and the tiniest group will become a mighty nation.
At the right time, I, the LORD, will make it happen.”
Observation
I believe that our church is going to take off and really grow, but it is going to be at the right time and it is going to be the Lord that makes it happen!
I hope and pray that we are healthy enough spiritually right now for God to do just that! I would love to see it. I would love to be a part of it.
God’s heart is for the people that do not know Him. His heart is crying out for our city, but we have to be willing to sacrifice everything to be in a position where God can use us to reach our city. We have to die to self.
What holds you back from allowing God to bless our city through you and your family, through your spiritual family your church? What are you willing to sacrifice?
Application
I am willing to lay it all on the line for You today. Everything I have I commit to You. All that I am I commit to You.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I want You to use me and my family and our spiritual family our church to reach this city. Help us to make the necessary sacrifices. I pray that You bless our people and make them people of great faith.
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Thursday, July 29, 2010
Patience...with People!
Isaiah 57; Isaiah 58; Isaiah 59; Psalm 103; 2 Peter 3
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Patience With People
Scripture
2 Peter 3
15 And remember, the Lord’s patience gives people time to be saved…”
Observation
Have you ever wondered why God allows terrible evil leaders to govern in so many countries? The Lord’s patience gives people time to be saved. The Lord is concerned about the eternal salvation of the peoples’ of the earth more than He is concerned about their physical condition here and now.
Why does He allow so much evil? Why doesn’t He come in judgment? He allows evil to continue because of He is patiently waiting for people to be saved and if He destroys all that is evil He would destroy those that could be saved. So He waits. He is also constantly working in the lives of the ungodly to bring them to salvation and repentance. He never gives up. He is constantly at work.
Who do you know that is very ungodly? God has not given up on them. He is working in his or her life right now. He may use you and your life to bring them to a place where they commit their lives to Christ. So don’t give up on them. Now may be the time when they surrender their lives to Christ. Now may be the day of salvation for them.
Application
I will not give up on those that are living godless lives and only seem to be causing grief to everyone around them. I will not give up.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, give me Your patience for people. Give me Your heart so that I can love them the way You want me to love them. Don’t let me give up on people. Don’t let me cause anyone to stumble. You are coming soon. Come Lord Jesus!
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Patience With People
Scripture
2 Peter 3
15 And remember, the Lord’s patience gives people time to be saved…”
Observation
Have you ever wondered why God allows terrible evil leaders to govern in so many countries? The Lord’s patience gives people time to be saved. The Lord is concerned about the eternal salvation of the peoples’ of the earth more than He is concerned about their physical condition here and now.
Why does He allow so much evil? Why doesn’t He come in judgment? He allows evil to continue because of He is patiently waiting for people to be saved and if He destroys all that is evil He would destroy those that could be saved. So He waits. He is also constantly working in the lives of the ungodly to bring them to salvation and repentance. He never gives up. He is constantly at work.
Who do you know that is very ungodly? God has not given up on them. He is working in his or her life right now. He may use you and your life to bring them to a place where they commit their lives to Christ. So don’t give up on them. Now may be the time when they surrender their lives to Christ. Now may be the day of salvation for them.
Application
I will not give up on those that are living godless lives and only seem to be causing grief to everyone around them. I will not give up.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, give me Your patience for people. Give me Your heart so that I can love them the way You want me to love them. Don’t let me give up on people. Don’t let me cause anyone to stumble. You are coming soon. Come Lord Jesus!
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Wednesday, July 28, 2010
What is Controlling You?
Isaiah 53; Isaiah 54; Isaiah 55; Isaiah 56; 2 Peter 2
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What is Controlling You Today?
Scripture
2 Peter 2
“…For you are a slave to whatever controls you.”
Observation
You are a slave to something. Something is controlling your life. It could be alcohol, illegal drugs, prescription medicine, pornography, sexual immorality, food, gambling, or it could be Jesus that has control of your life.
You may have let a sin slowly take control of your life and now you are a slave to that particular sin or addiction.
Everyone is a slave to something or someone. Remember…You are a slave to whatever controls you!
So this morning you and I have a choice …what will it be? Are we going to let sin and self control us today or are we going to yield control of our lives over to Jesus. The choice is ours. What choice will you make?
Application
I will allow Jesus to control my life today. How about you?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I watch the destructive power of sin in the lives of those I love. Those in my family that are allowing sin to control them. They are slaves to sin. I pray that they would be set free from the grip of sin. Help me to love them in spite of what they are doing. They have become slaves to those addictions and only by Your power will they be set free. I want You to control my life. I want to be a slave of Christ. Help me serve You today in a way that makes You smile. Help me to please You.
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What is Controlling You Today?
Scripture
2 Peter 2
“…For you are a slave to whatever controls you.”
Observation
You are a slave to something. Something is controlling your life. It could be alcohol, illegal drugs, prescription medicine, pornography, sexual immorality, food, gambling, or it could be Jesus that has control of your life.
You may have let a sin slowly take control of your life and now you are a slave to that particular sin or addiction.
Everyone is a slave to something or someone. Remember…You are a slave to whatever controls you!
So this morning you and I have a choice …what will it be? Are we going to let sin and self control us today or are we going to yield control of our lives over to Jesus. The choice is ours. What choice will you make?
Application
I will allow Jesus to control my life today. How about you?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I watch the destructive power of sin in the lives of those I love. Those in my family that are allowing sin to control them. They are slaves to sin. I pray that they would be set free from the grip of sin. Help me to love them in spite of what they are doing. They have become slaves to those addictions and only by Your power will they be set free. I want You to control my life. I want to be a slave of Christ. Help me serve You today in a way that makes You smile. Help me to please You.
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Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Vital and Green
Isaiah 50; Isaiah 51; Isaiah 52; Psalm 92; 2 Peter 1
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Vital and Green!
Scripture
Psalm 92
12 But the godly will flourish like palm trees
and grow strong like the cedars of Lebanon.
13 For they are transplanted to the LORD’s own house.
They flourish in the courts of our God.
14 Even in old age they will still produce fruit;
they will remain vital and green.
15 They will declare, “The LORD is just!
He is my rock!
There is no evil in him!”
Observation
Even in old age they will produce fruit; they will remain vital and green! Ok! I am going to remember this verse and bring it up every time the enemy tries to make me feel old and worthless. I want to remain vital and green! How about you?
Application
I will hold on to this verse and as I go about today I will go in God’s power knowing that I am still vital and green!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I love Your word. I think You put these verses in the Bible just for me today. I don’t ever remember seeing this promise before in Your word. I know that I have read Psalm 92 many times but today verse 14 jumps off the page. I want to remain vital and green even though I am getting old. I don’t want to act like a typical old person. I want to continue to flourish like a palm tree and continue to grow strong like the cedars of Lebanon. I want to continue to please You. I want to continue to produce fruit! Thank You for allowing me to serve You today. You are my God. You are my strength.
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Vital and Green!
Scripture
Psalm 92
12 But the godly will flourish like palm trees
and grow strong like the cedars of Lebanon.
13 For they are transplanted to the LORD’s own house.
They flourish in the courts of our God.
14 Even in old age they will still produce fruit;
they will remain vital and green.
15 They will declare, “The LORD is just!
He is my rock!
There is no evil in him!”
Observation
Even in old age they will produce fruit; they will remain vital and green! Ok! I am going to remember this verse and bring it up every time the enemy tries to make me feel old and worthless. I want to remain vital and green! How about you?
Application
I will hold on to this verse and as I go about today I will go in God’s power knowing that I am still vital and green!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I love Your word. I think You put these verses in the Bible just for me today. I don’t ever remember seeing this promise before in Your word. I know that I have read Psalm 92 many times but today verse 14 jumps off the page. I want to remain vital and green even though I am getting old. I don’t want to act like a typical old person. I want to continue to flourish like a palm tree and continue to grow strong like the cedars of Lebanon. I want to continue to please You. I want to continue to produce fruit! Thank You for allowing me to serve You today. You are my God. You are my strength.
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Monday, July 26, 2010
Pray and Stay Alert!
Isaiah 46; Isaiah 47; Isaiah 48; Isaiah 49; 1 Peter 5
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Pray and Stay Alert!
Scripture
1 Peter 5
6 So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor. 7 Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.
8 Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. 9 Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith. Remember that your Christian brothers and sisters all over the world are going through the same kind of suffering you are.
Observation
Pray and give all your worries and concerns to God. Stay alert because our great enemy the devil is prowling around and wants to devour us. Stand firm against him by being strong in your faith.
So we need to be humble, we need to be people of prayer and we need to be on our toes because our enemy is on the prowl and wants to destroy us.
Application
I will take all my concerns to the Lord because He cares for me. How about you?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, over and over again You tell us in Your word that we should not worry about anything, but that we should pray about everything. How come it seems easier to worry about things than to bring them to You? Help me to bring every concern that comes to my mind straight to you today. Help me be a man of faith today. Help me to stay alert. You are my King. You are my Lord. You are all powerful. Nothing is too hard for You.
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Pray and Stay Alert!
Scripture
1 Peter 5
6 So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor. 7 Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.
8 Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. 9 Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith. Remember that your Christian brothers and sisters all over the world are going through the same kind of suffering you are.
Observation
Pray and give all your worries and concerns to God. Stay alert because our great enemy the devil is prowling around and wants to devour us. Stand firm against him by being strong in your faith.
So we need to be humble, we need to be people of prayer and we need to be on our toes because our enemy is on the prowl and wants to destroy us.
Application
I will take all my concerns to the Lord because He cares for me. How about you?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, over and over again You tell us in Your word that we should not worry about anything, but that we should pray about everything. How come it seems easier to worry about things than to bring them to You? Help me to bring every concern that comes to my mind straight to you today. Help me be a man of faith today. Help me to stay alert. You are my King. You are my Lord. You are all powerful. Nothing is too hard for You.
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Sunday, July 25, 2010
Idols …Have You Made Your Own god?
Isaiah 43; Isaiah 44; Isaiah 45; 1 Peter 4
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Idols …Have You Made Your Own god?
Scripture
Isaiah 44
9 How foolish are those who manufacture idols.
These prized objects are really worthless.
The people who worship idols don’t know this,
so they are all put to shame.
10 Who but a fool would make his own god—
an idol that cannot help him one bit?
11 All who worship idols will be disgraced
along with all these craftsmen—mere humans—
who claim they can make a god.
They may all stand together,
but they will stand in terror and shame.
12 The blacksmith stands at his forge to make a sharp tool,
pounding and shaping it with all his might.
His work makes him hungry and weak.
It makes him thirsty and faint.
13 Then the wood-carver measures a block of wood
and draws a pattern on it.
He works with chisel and plane
and carves it into a human figure.
He gives it human beauty
and puts it in a little shrine.
14 He cuts down cedars;
he selects the cypress and the oak;
he plants the pine in the forest
to be nourished by the rain.
15 Then he uses part of the wood to make a fire.
With it he warms himself and bakes his bread.
Then—yes, it’s true—he takes the rest of it
and makes himself a god to worship!
He makes an idol
and bows down in front of it!
16 He burns part of the tree to roast his meat
and to keep himself warm.
He says, “Ah, that fire feels good.”
17 Then he takes what’s left
and makes his god: a carved idol!
He falls down in front of it,
worshiping and praying to it.
“Rescue me!” he says.
“You are my god!”
18 Such stupidity and ignorance!
Their eyes are closed, and they cannot see.
Their minds are shut, and they cannot think.
19 The person who made the idol never stops to reflect,
“Why, it’s just a block of wood!
I burned half of it for heat
and used it to bake my bread and roast my meat.
How can the rest of it be a god?
Should I bow down to worship a piece of wood?”
20 The poor, deluded fool feeds on ashes.
He trusts something that can’t help him at all.
Yet he cannot bring himself to ask,
“Is this idol that I’m holding in my hand a lie?”
Observation
When you read Isaiah 44 you might think how foolish it would be for someone to make an idol out of a block of wood, but the idols people worship today are just as stupid.
Do you have idols in your life? How was your time spent last week? Did you commit time to the Lord everyday? Did you wake up with the Lord on your mind or did other things consume your thinking?
Whatever dominates your thinking has become your idol. It can be your job, a relationship, a boat, a car, a hobby, sports, money; it can be just about anything that takes God’s place as number one in your life.
Application
I will rejoice in the Lord today and I will let Him know that He is number one in my life.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me not to let something stupid come between You and me. I don’t want anything to take Your place in my life. There is nothing more important on this earth than You. Help me to please You today. May Your face shine on me and on my family today. I pray that my children and my grandchildren would wake up and think about You this morning. Be glorified through Your church today!
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Idols …Have You Made Your Own god?
Scripture
Isaiah 44
9 How foolish are those who manufacture idols.
These prized objects are really worthless.
The people who worship idols don’t know this,
so they are all put to shame.
10 Who but a fool would make his own god—
an idol that cannot help him one bit?
11 All who worship idols will be disgraced
along with all these craftsmen—mere humans—
who claim they can make a god.
They may all stand together,
but they will stand in terror and shame.
12 The blacksmith stands at his forge to make a sharp tool,
pounding and shaping it with all his might.
His work makes him hungry and weak.
It makes him thirsty and faint.
13 Then the wood-carver measures a block of wood
and draws a pattern on it.
He works with chisel and plane
and carves it into a human figure.
He gives it human beauty
and puts it in a little shrine.
14 He cuts down cedars;
he selects the cypress and the oak;
he plants the pine in the forest
to be nourished by the rain.
15 Then he uses part of the wood to make a fire.
With it he warms himself and bakes his bread.
Then—yes, it’s true—he takes the rest of it
and makes himself a god to worship!
He makes an idol
and bows down in front of it!
16 He burns part of the tree to roast his meat
and to keep himself warm.
He says, “Ah, that fire feels good.”
17 Then he takes what’s left
and makes his god: a carved idol!
He falls down in front of it,
worshiping and praying to it.
“Rescue me!” he says.
“You are my god!”
18 Such stupidity and ignorance!
Their eyes are closed, and they cannot see.
Their minds are shut, and they cannot think.
19 The person who made the idol never stops to reflect,
“Why, it’s just a block of wood!
I burned half of it for heat
and used it to bake my bread and roast my meat.
How can the rest of it be a god?
Should I bow down to worship a piece of wood?”
20 The poor, deluded fool feeds on ashes.
He trusts something that can’t help him at all.
Yet he cannot bring himself to ask,
“Is this idol that I’m holding in my hand a lie?”
Observation
When you read Isaiah 44 you might think how foolish it would be for someone to make an idol out of a block of wood, but the idols people worship today are just as stupid.
Do you have idols in your life? How was your time spent last week? Did you commit time to the Lord everyday? Did you wake up with the Lord on your mind or did other things consume your thinking?
Whatever dominates your thinking has become your idol. It can be your job, a relationship, a boat, a car, a hobby, sports, money; it can be just about anything that takes God’s place as number one in your life.
Application
I will rejoice in the Lord today and I will let Him know that He is number one in my life.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me not to let something stupid come between You and me. I don’t want anything to take Your place in my life. There is nothing more important on this earth than You. Help me to please You today. May Your face shine on me and on my family today. I pray that my children and my grandchildren would wake up and think about You this morning. Be glorified through Your church today!
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Saturday, July 24, 2010
Put Your Name in This Promise
Isaiah 40; Isaiah 41; Isaiah 42; 1 Peter 3
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Put Your Name in This Promise
Scripture
Isaiah 41
10 Don’t be afraid, for I am with you.
Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you.
I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.
Isaiah 40
26 Look up into the heavens.
Who created all the stars?
He brings them out like an army, one after another,
calling each by its name.
Because of his great power and incomparable strength,
not a single one is missing.
27 O Jacob, how can you say the LORD does not see your troubles?
O Israel, how can you say God ignores your rights?
28 Have you never heard?
Have you never understood?
The LORD is the everlasting God,
the Creator of all the earth.
He never grows weak or weary.
No one can measure the depths of his understanding.
29 He gives power to the weak
and strength to the powerless.
30 Even youths will become weak and tired,
and young men will fall in exhaustion.
31 But those who trust in the LORD will find new strength.
They will soar high on wings like eagles.
They will run and not grow weary.
They will walk and not faint.
Observation
Isaiah 41
10 Don’t be afraid, for I am with you.
Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you.
I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.
Isaiah 40
31 But those who trust in the LORD will find new strength.
They will soar high on wings like eagles.
They will run and not grow weary.
They will walk and not faint.
Take your name and put it in verse 31 of Isaiah 40
Application
I will place my name in this scripture and I will trust my God to carry it out!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I will not be afraid because You are with me. I will not be discouraged, because You are my God. You will help me. You will strengthen me with Your victorious right hand. I will trust in You and find new strength. I will soar high on wings like eagles. I will run and not grow weary. I will walk and I will not faint. You are Mighty to save.
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Put Your Name in This Promise
Scripture
Isaiah 41
10 Don’t be afraid, for I am with you.
Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you.
I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.
Isaiah 40
26 Look up into the heavens.
Who created all the stars?
He brings them out like an army, one after another,
calling each by its name.
Because of his great power and incomparable strength,
not a single one is missing.
27 O Jacob, how can you say the LORD does not see your troubles?
O Israel, how can you say God ignores your rights?
28 Have you never heard?
Have you never understood?
The LORD is the everlasting God,
the Creator of all the earth.
He never grows weak or weary.
No one can measure the depths of his understanding.
29 He gives power to the weak
and strength to the powerless.
30 Even youths will become weak and tired,
and young men will fall in exhaustion.
31 But those who trust in the LORD will find new strength.
They will soar high on wings like eagles.
They will run and not grow weary.
They will walk and not faint.
Observation
Isaiah 41
10 Don’t be afraid, for I am with you.
Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you.
I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.
Isaiah 40
31 But those who trust in the LORD will find new strength.
They will soar high on wings like eagles.
They will run and not grow weary.
They will walk and not faint.
Take your name and put it in verse 31 of Isaiah 40
Application
I will place my name in this scripture and I will trust my God to carry it out!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I will not be afraid because You are with me. I will not be discouraged, because You are my God. You will help me. You will strengthen me with Your victorious right hand. I will trust in You and find new strength. I will soar high on wings like eagles. I will run and not grow weary. I will walk and I will not faint. You are Mighty to save.
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Friday, July 23, 2010
Never Sinned!
2 Kings 20; Isaiah 38; Isaiah 39; Psalm 75; 1 Peter 2
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Never Sinned!
Scripture
1 Peter 2
21 For God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example, and you must follow in his steps.
22 He never sinned,
nor ever deceived anyone.
23 He did not retaliate when he was insulted,
nor threaten revenge when he suffered.
He left his case in the hands of God,
who always judges fairly.
24 He personally carried our sins
in his body on the cross
so that we can be dead to sin
and live for what is right.
By his wounds
you are healed.
25 Once you were like sheep
who wandered away.
But now you have turned to your Shepherd,
the Guardian of your souls.
Observation
Jesus never ever sinned … not one time! He had brothers and sisters and He never sinned. Growing up how many times did you and your brothers and sisters get into fights? How many times did a younger or older brother or sister get you to do something that was wrong? I am sure that if you grew up with brothers and sisters like I did it was an everyday occurrence but not with Jesus not even one time. He never disobeyed His parents to the point that it was sin (I say it like that because when He was 12 years old and got left behind in Jerusalem His parents were not too happy with Him).
He lived thirty – three years on this earth and never ever did one thing that displeased God, not one, not one time.
He did something that you and I cannot do. He lived a perfect life so that He could be a perfect sacrifice for your sins and my sins. The sacrifices of the animals that were a part of the Jewish tradition were not perfect. Those animals did not have the capacity to sin or not to sin. Jesus was tempted just like we are tempted yet He never yielded to the temptation and He was able to offer His sinless life for our sinful lives. He was able to work out an exchange …His sinless life in place of our sinful lives.
Application
We read in 1 Peter 2:24 “By His wounds we are healed” and now He has given us the ministry of reconciliation. I will be Jesus’ hand and feet today and I will strive “to do good” like He has called me to do.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, Thank You for Jesus. Thank You that He lived a sinless life and He has healed me by his wounds. Help me to do good just like You have called me to do. Help me follow the example that Christ has given me and help me to follow in His steps today.
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Never Sinned!
Scripture
1 Peter 2
21 For God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example, and you must follow in his steps.
22 He never sinned,
nor ever deceived anyone.
23 He did not retaliate when he was insulted,
nor threaten revenge when he suffered.
He left his case in the hands of God,
who always judges fairly.
24 He personally carried our sins
in his body on the cross
so that we can be dead to sin
and live for what is right.
By his wounds
you are healed.
25 Once you were like sheep
who wandered away.
But now you have turned to your Shepherd,
the Guardian of your souls.
Observation
Jesus never ever sinned … not one time! He had brothers and sisters and He never sinned. Growing up how many times did you and your brothers and sisters get into fights? How many times did a younger or older brother or sister get you to do something that was wrong? I am sure that if you grew up with brothers and sisters like I did it was an everyday occurrence but not with Jesus not even one time. He never disobeyed His parents to the point that it was sin (I say it like that because when He was 12 years old and got left behind in Jerusalem His parents were not too happy with Him).
He lived thirty – three years on this earth and never ever did one thing that displeased God, not one, not one time.
He did something that you and I cannot do. He lived a perfect life so that He could be a perfect sacrifice for your sins and my sins. The sacrifices of the animals that were a part of the Jewish tradition were not perfect. Those animals did not have the capacity to sin or not to sin. Jesus was tempted just like we are tempted yet He never yielded to the temptation and He was able to offer His sinless life for our sinful lives. He was able to work out an exchange …His sinless life in place of our sinful lives.
Application
We read in 1 Peter 2:24 “By His wounds we are healed” and now He has given us the ministry of reconciliation. I will be Jesus’ hand and feet today and I will strive “to do good” like He has called me to do.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, Thank You for Jesus. Thank You that He lived a sinless life and He has healed me by his wounds. Help me to do good just like You have called me to do. Help me follow the example that Christ has given me and help me to follow in His steps today.
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Thursday, July 22, 2010
The Importance of Repetition!
Isaiah 36; Isaiah 37; Psalm 76; 1 Peter 1
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The Importance of Repetition!
Scripture
1 Peter 1
21 Through Christ you have come to trust in God. And you have placed your faith and hope in God because he raised Christ from the dead and gave him great glory.
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.
Observation
How many times in scripture are we told to love each other? This time we are told by Peter to love each other with sincerity and to love each other deeply. Why do we have to be constantly reminded to love each other?
You know the answer … it is because in the flesh the normal thing to do is to hate each other or at least strongly dislike each other. And it is not enough just to say that you love others, in this passage we are told that we must show it.
How are you showing your love for someone today? Maybe it is someone that is not easy to love how can you show your love towards them?
Application
I will show my sincere love for a person who is very close to me (it is not Kathy) even though this person makes life difficult sometimes.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, give me the capacity to love people like You want me to love them. Help me to overlook their hurtful actions and words and help me not to respond to them in the same way they do me. Let people see Jesus in me today. I pray for those that are struggling with huge decisions, those that are dealing with health issues, and those that are trying to help their aging parents. Give them Your strength.
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The Importance of Repetition!
Scripture
1 Peter 1
21 Through Christ you have come to trust in God. And you have placed your faith and hope in God because he raised Christ from the dead and gave him great glory.
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.
Observation
How many times in scripture are we told to love each other? This time we are told by Peter to love each other with sincerity and to love each other deeply. Why do we have to be constantly reminded to love each other?
You know the answer … it is because in the flesh the normal thing to do is to hate each other or at least strongly dislike each other. And it is not enough just to say that you love others, in this passage we are told that we must show it.
How are you showing your love for someone today? Maybe it is someone that is not easy to love how can you show your love towards them?
Application
I will show my sincere love for a person who is very close to me (it is not Kathy) even though this person makes life difficult sometimes.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, give me the capacity to love people like You want me to love them. Help me to overlook their hurtful actions and words and help me not to respond to them in the same way they do me. Let people see Jesus in me today. I pray for those that are struggling with huge decisions, those that are dealing with health issues, and those that are trying to help their aging parents. Give them Your strength.
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Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Great Power in Prayer
2 Kings 18; 2 Kings 19; 2 Chronicles 32; James 5
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Great Power in Prayer!
Scripture
James 5
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
There is great power in prayer! The power resides in the Person we are praying to and not in our ability to pray! It is not our fancy words or pretty prayers, but it is a humble attitude on our part that pleases God. He delights in helping us if we will humble ourselves and seek His help.
We see this in our Old Testament passages this morning that deal with King Hezekiah and how he called on God in prayer.
15 “And Hezekiah prayed this prayer before the LORD: “O LORD, God of Israel, you are enthroned between the mighty cherubim! You alone are God of all the kingdoms of the earth. You alone created the heavens and the earth. 16 Bend down, O LORD, and listen! Open your eyes, O LORD, and see! Listen to Sennacherib’s words of defiance against the living God.
17 “It is true, LORD, that the kings of Assyria have destroyed all these nations. 18 And they have thrown the gods of these nations into the fire and burned them. But of course the Assyrians could destroy them! They were not gods at all—only idols of wood and stone shaped by human hands. 19 Now, O LORD our God, rescue us from his power; then all the kingdoms of the earth will know that you alone, O LORD, are God.” 2 Kings 19:15-19
And that night in response to Hezekiah’s prayer the angel of the Lord killed 185,000 Assyrian soldiers and God protected Jerusalem.
Application
I will pray today believing that God hears me and will answer my prayers.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, You are so powerful. There is nothing too hard for You. You have answered my prayers. You have showed Yourself so powerful in my life. I can totally trust in You. You hear me when I pray and You answer my prayers. Thank You for letting me pray to You. You are the Creator God and I am nothing. I am so small but You still love and care for me. There are so many things that are out of my control, but You never experience anything out of Your control. I trust You today. I call on You to do the impossible things that surround my life and seem to be piling up. They are the things that frustrate me, but must make You smile because You delight in helping those who call on You.
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Great Power in Prayer!
Scripture
James 5
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
There is great power in prayer! The power resides in the Person we are praying to and not in our ability to pray! It is not our fancy words or pretty prayers, but it is a humble attitude on our part that pleases God. He delights in helping us if we will humble ourselves and seek His help.
We see this in our Old Testament passages this morning that deal with King Hezekiah and how he called on God in prayer.
15 “And Hezekiah prayed this prayer before the LORD: “O LORD, God of Israel, you are enthroned between the mighty cherubim! You alone are God of all the kingdoms of the earth. You alone created the heavens and the earth. 16 Bend down, O LORD, and listen! Open your eyes, O LORD, and see! Listen to Sennacherib’s words of defiance against the living God.
17 “It is true, LORD, that the kings of Assyria have destroyed all these nations. 18 And they have thrown the gods of these nations into the fire and burned them. But of course the Assyrians could destroy them! They were not gods at all—only idols of wood and stone shaped by human hands. 19 Now, O LORD our God, rescue us from his power; then all the kingdoms of the earth will know that you alone, O LORD, are God.” 2 Kings 19:15-19
And that night in response to Hezekiah’s prayer the angel of the Lord killed 185,000 Assyrian soldiers and God protected Jerusalem.
Application
I will pray today believing that God hears me and will answer my prayers.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, You are so powerful. There is nothing too hard for You. You have answered my prayers. You have showed Yourself so powerful in my life. I can totally trust in You. You hear me when I pray and You answer my prayers. Thank You for letting me pray to You. You are the Creator God and I am nothing. I am so small but You still love and care for me. There are so many things that are out of my control, but You never experience anything out of Your control. I trust You today. I call on You to do the impossible things that surround my life and seem to be piling up. They are the things that frustrate me, but must make You smile because You delight in helping those who call on You.
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Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Humility is the Key to Leadership
2 Chronicles 29; 2 Chronicles 30; 2 Chronicles 31; James 4
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Humility is the Key to Leadership!
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
Hezekiah was twenty-five years old when he became the king of Judah, and he reigned in Jerusalem twenty-nine years. His mother was Abijah, the daughter of Zechariah. 2 He did what was pleasing in the LORD’s sight, just as his ancestor David had done. 2 Chronicles 29
If you have time to read 2 Chronicles 29 through 31 this morning you will see how God blesses someone that has humbled himself. Hezekiah becomes the king of Judah and immediately begins to restore God’s temple and temple worship, which the people had completely neglected. As you read these chapters you will feel the excitement build and you can sense how pleased God was with king Hezekiah and how pleased He was with the people.
There is a sad note in all of this because it says in scripture that as the runners went out to tell the people to come and worship God in His Holy Temple it is said that the majority of the people laughed and made fun of the runners:
“6 At the king’s command, runners were sent throughout Israel and Judah. They carried letters that said:
“O people of Israel, return to the LORD, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, so that he will return to the few of us who have survived the conquest of the Assyrian kings. 7 Do not be like your ancestors and relatives who abandoned the LORD, the God of their ancestors, and became an object of derision, as you yourselves can see. 8 Do not be stubborn, as they were, but submit yourselves to the LORD. Come to his Temple, which he has set apart as holy forever. Worship the LORD your God so that his fierce anger will turn away from you.
9 “For if you return to the LORD, your relatives and your children will be treated mercifully by their captors, and they will be able to return to this land. For the LORD your God is gracious and merciful. If you return to him, he will not continue to turn his face from you.”
Celebration of Passover
10 The runners went from town to town throughout Ephraim and Manasseh and as far as the territory of Zebulun. But most of the people just laughed at the runners and made fun of them. 11 However, some people from Asher, Manasseh, and Zebulun humbled themselves and went to Jerusalem.”
How sad that the majority of the people missed out on God’s blessing and missed out on the excitement that those that were obedient got to experience.
God is saying the same thing to us today through the writings of James, but we need to listen and obey. Let me encourage you to draw close to God.
Application
I will humble myself before God today. I will resist the devil. I will come close to God.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to humble myself before You today. Help me to resist the devil. It is my desire to draw close to You today. You are my Lord. You are my Strength. You are the most important thing in my life. Help me be a strong leader like Hezekiah was when he restored the temple. I want to be a blessing to those that You have placed in my care.
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Humility is the Key to Leadership!
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
Hezekiah was twenty-five years old when he became the king of Judah, and he reigned in Jerusalem twenty-nine years. His mother was Abijah, the daughter of Zechariah. 2 He did what was pleasing in the LORD’s sight, just as his ancestor David had done. 2 Chronicles 29
If you have time to read 2 Chronicles 29 through 31 this morning you will see how God blesses someone that has humbled himself. Hezekiah becomes the king of Judah and immediately begins to restore God’s temple and temple worship, which the people had completely neglected. As you read these chapters you will feel the excitement build and you can sense how pleased God was with king Hezekiah and how pleased He was with the people.
There is a sad note in all of this because it says in scripture that as the runners went out to tell the people to come and worship God in His Holy Temple it is said that the majority of the people laughed and made fun of the runners:
“6 At the king’s command, runners were sent throughout Israel and Judah. They carried letters that said:
“O people of Israel, return to the LORD, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, so that he will return to the few of us who have survived the conquest of the Assyrian kings. 7 Do not be like your ancestors and relatives who abandoned the LORD, the God of their ancestors, and became an object of derision, as you yourselves can see. 8 Do not be stubborn, as they were, but submit yourselves to the LORD. Come to his Temple, which he has set apart as holy forever. Worship the LORD your God so that his fierce anger will turn away from you.
9 “For if you return to the LORD, your relatives and your children will be treated mercifully by their captors, and they will be able to return to this land. For the LORD your God is gracious and merciful. If you return to him, he will not continue to turn his face from you.”
Celebration of Passover
10 The runners went from town to town throughout Ephraim and Manasseh and as far as the territory of Zebulun. But most of the people just laughed at the runners and made fun of them. 11 However, some people from Asher, Manasseh, and Zebulun humbled themselves and went to Jerusalem.”
How sad that the majority of the people missed out on God’s blessing and missed out on the excitement that those that were obedient got to experience.
God is saying the same thing to us today through the writings of James, but we need to listen and obey. Let me encourage you to draw close to God.
Application
I will humble myself before God today. I will resist the devil. I will come close to God.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to humble myself before You today. Help me to resist the devil. It is my desire to draw close to You today. You are my Lord. You are my Strength. You are the most important thing in my life. Help me be a strong leader like Hezekiah was when he restored the temple. I want to be a blessing to those that You have placed in my care.
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Monday, July 19, 2010
Peacemaker or Troublemaker
2 Kings 17; 2 Chronicles 28; Psalm 46; James 3
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Peacemaker & Troublemaker
Scripture
James 3
17 But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere. 18 And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of righteousness.
Observation
Do you believe in the demonic world? Do you believe that the demonic world is what we fight against? James mentions that some of our behavior is influenced by the demonic world when he writes in James 3:14 “But if you are bitterly jealous and there is selfish ambition in your heart, don’t cover up the truth with boasting and lying. 15 For jealousy and selfishness are not God’s kind of wisdom. Such things are earthly, unspiritual, and demonic.
There is a lot of stuff happening all around us and we are ignorant if we don’t believe that there is spiritual warfare going on. It is true that the Devil is not able to be everywhere at the same time, but he has plenty of help. Lets not forget that he has one third of all the angels working for him right now.
There is a lot of evil in this world and it doesn’t all come from human beings. Satan is not all-powerful but he is the second most powerful and we need to know how to defend ourselves from his attacks.
Application
I will strive to be a peacemaker and not a troublemaker this week.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me be a peacemaker this week. Help me to see the tricks of the Devil and keep me from falling into his traps. Help me to “Be still … so that I can know that you are God! You will be honored by every nation. You will be honored throughout the world.”
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Peacemaker & Troublemaker
Scripture
James 3
17 But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere. 18 And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of righteousness.
Observation
Do you believe in the demonic world? Do you believe that the demonic world is what we fight against? James mentions that some of our behavior is influenced by the demonic world when he writes in James 3:14 “But if you are bitterly jealous and there is selfish ambition in your heart, don’t cover up the truth with boasting and lying. 15 For jealousy and selfishness are not God’s kind of wisdom. Such things are earthly, unspiritual, and demonic.
There is a lot of stuff happening all around us and we are ignorant if we don’t believe that there is spiritual warfare going on. It is true that the Devil is not able to be everywhere at the same time, but he has plenty of help. Lets not forget that he has one third of all the angels working for him right now.
There is a lot of evil in this world and it doesn’t all come from human beings. Satan is not all-powerful but he is the second most powerful and we need to know how to defend ourselves from his attacks.
Application
I will strive to be a peacemaker and not a troublemaker this week.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me be a peacemaker this week. Help me to see the tricks of the Devil and keep me from falling into his traps. Help me to “Be still … so that I can know that you are God! You will be honored by every nation. You will be honored throughout the world.”
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Sunday, July 18, 2010
Good Works!
Isaiah 32; Isaiah 33; Isaiah 34; Isaiah 35; James 2
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Good Works!
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?
21 Don’t you remember that our ancestor Abraham was shown to be right with God by his actions when he offered his son Isaac on the altar? 22 You see, his faith and his actions worked together. His actions made his faith complete. 23 And so it happened just as the Scriptures say: “Abraham believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his faith.” He was even called the friend of God. 24 So you see, we are shown to be right with God by what we do, not by faith alone.
25 Rahab the prostitute is another example. She was shown to be right with God by her actions when she hid those messengers and sent them safely away by a different road. 26 Just as the body is dead without breath, so also faith is dead without good works.
Observation
Faith isn’t faith at all if there is not good works as a result of having faith! Faith and good works go hand in hand you don’t have one without the other.
Doing good works comes with biblical faith and it is not simply believing that there is a God because even the demons believe in God, but they aren’t Christ followers!
Application
Knowing that you should do something and then not doing it is a sin. It is a faith without good works. I will strive to be obedient this week when the Lord impresses me to do something for someone. So I don’t miss out on being a blessing to someone.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I confess that I fit right in with the group that James is talking about in this chapter. I knew yesterday of something that I should have done for someone and I didn’t do it. I have confessed it as sin. I know that You will forgive me, but it hurts me to know that I have done something that isn’t pleasing in your sight. Some people might think that it was a very small thing, but I believe that in Your eyes obedience is always a very big thing. Help me to be obedient, don’t let me let something go by that should have been a witness of my relationship with You. I missed out on a blessing yesterday, don’t let me miss out on more today. Guide and direct me today and clearly show me what I need to do and who I need to help.
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Good Works!
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?
21 Don’t you remember that our ancestor Abraham was shown to be right with God by his actions when he offered his son Isaac on the altar? 22 You see, his faith and his actions worked together. His actions made his faith complete. 23 And so it happened just as the Scriptures say: “Abraham believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his faith.” He was even called the friend of God. 24 So you see, we are shown to be right with God by what we do, not by faith alone.
25 Rahab the prostitute is another example. She was shown to be right with God by her actions when she hid those messengers and sent them safely away by a different road. 26 Just as the body is dead without breath, so also faith is dead without good works.
Observation
Faith isn’t faith at all if there is not good works as a result of having faith! Faith and good works go hand in hand you don’t have one without the other.
Doing good works comes with biblical faith and it is not simply believing that there is a God because even the demons believe in God, but they aren’t Christ followers!
Application
Knowing that you should do something and then not doing it is a sin. It is a faith without good works. I will strive to be obedient this week when the Lord impresses me to do something for someone. So I don’t miss out on being a blessing to someone.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I confess that I fit right in with the group that James is talking about in this chapter. I knew yesterday of something that I should have done for someone and I didn’t do it. I have confessed it as sin. I know that You will forgive me, but it hurts me to know that I have done something that isn’t pleasing in your sight. Some people might think that it was a very small thing, but I believe that in Your eyes obedience is always a very big thing. Help me to be obedient, don’t let me let something go by that should have been a witness of my relationship with You. I missed out on a blessing yesterday, don’t let me miss out on more today. Guide and direct me today and clearly show me what I need to do and who I need to help.
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Saturday, July 17, 2010
I Am Blessed!
Isaiah 29; Isaiah 30; Isaiah 31; James 1
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I Am Blessed!
Scripture
James 1
12 Blessed (happy, to be envied) is the man who is patient under trial and stands up under temptation, for when he has stood the test and been approved, he will receive [the victor's] crown of life which God has promised to those who love Him.
Observation
How are you doing? I am blessed. I love it when someone responds to my greeting with “I am blessed”.
Blessed is someone that doesn’t have any problems … not!
Blessed is the man who is patient under trial and stands up under temptation.
Are you going through trials? Are you dealing with temptation? Would you be considered “Blessed, happy, to be envied” by the way you are handling yourself?
There is a reward for all of those that are able to stand the test and that reward is a crown of life!
Application
I want to live my life today in a way that would qualify me for the victor’s crown of life. How about you?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I know that living a problem free life is not going to happen. It is my choice today how I handle problems and temptations. God, You use them to test my character, the real me. I want to pass the test. Lord, help me please You by being patient under trials and strong when I am tempted.
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I Am Blessed!
Scripture
James 1
12 Blessed (happy, to be envied) is the man who is patient under trial and stands up under temptation, for when he has stood the test and been approved, he will receive [the victor's] crown of life which God has promised to those who love Him.
Observation
How are you doing? I am blessed. I love it when someone responds to my greeting with “I am blessed”.
Blessed is someone that doesn’t have any problems … not!
Blessed is the man who is patient under trial and stands up under temptation.
Are you going through trials? Are you dealing with temptation? Would you be considered “Blessed, happy, to be envied” by the way you are handling yourself?
There is a reward for all of those that are able to stand the test and that reward is a crown of life!
Application
I want to live my life today in a way that would qualify me for the victor’s crown of life. How about you?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I know that living a problem free life is not going to happen. It is my choice today how I handle problems and temptations. God, You use them to test my character, the real me. I want to pass the test. Lord, help me please You by being patient under trials and strong when I am tempted.
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Friday, July 16, 2010
Accountablility
Isaiah 25; Isaiah 26; Isaiah 27; Isaiah 28; Hebrews 13
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Accountability
Scripture
Hebrews 13
17 Obey your spiritual leaders, and do what they say. Their work is to watch over your souls, and they are accountable to God. Give them reason to do this with joy and not with sorrow. That would certainly not be for your benefit.
Observation
Accountability: I am accountable to God for the people that He has placed in my life to pastor. I have the job of watching over their very souls. I take it seriously because I know that I will one day give an account to God.
I am glad that most of the folks in our congregation give me reason to rejoice and only a few bring me sorrow. It is my calling to love them all, even the unlovely.
Application
I will think about and pray for those that God has put under my responsibility.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to be the best pastor to our people. Raise up other pastors from within our congregation that have a concerned for the spiritual well being of those around them. Use them to help me shepherd our people. I need their help. Thank You for those that have said, “yes” to leadership and are faithfully serving You in our church. I am proud of them. Give them the desires of their hearts, make their plans successful and answer their prayers.
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Accountability
Scripture
Hebrews 13
17 Obey your spiritual leaders, and do what they say. Their work is to watch over your souls, and they are accountable to God. Give them reason to do this with joy and not with sorrow. That would certainly not be for your benefit.
Observation
Accountability: I am accountable to God for the people that He has placed in my life to pastor. I have the job of watching over their very souls. I take it seriously because I know that I will one day give an account to God.
I am glad that most of the folks in our congregation give me reason to rejoice and only a few bring me sorrow. It is my calling to love them all, even the unlovely.
Application
I will think about and pray for those that God has put under my responsibility.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to be the best pastor to our people. Raise up other pastors from within our congregation that have a concerned for the spiritual well being of those around them. Use them to help me shepherd our people. I need their help. Thank You for those that have said, “yes” to leadership and are faithfully serving You in our church. I am proud of them. Give them the desires of their hearts, make their plans successful and answer their prayers.
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Run Eddy Run!
Isaiah 22; Isaiah 23; Isaiah 24; Hebrews 12
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Run Eddy Run!
Scripture
Hebrews 12
God’s Discipline Proves His Love
1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. 2 We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne. 3 Think of all the hostility he endured from sinful people; then you won’t become weary and give up. 4 After all, you have not yet given your lives in your struggle against sin.
Observation
The Christian Life is a race so “Run Eddy Run! Strip off everything that is slowing you down and RUN! How do we run the race? We run the race with our eyes fixed on Jesus. He is the starting line and the finish line.
How are you doing in this Christian Marathon? It is not a wind sprint; you need to be in this race for the long haul. Are you ready? Have you realized you are in a race? Are you struggling today? If you are then get rid of all the stuff that is slowing you down. Get rid of it right now! Run the race with everything that you’ve got!
Application
I will run with all my heart today the race that God has put before me. How about you?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, give me energy to finish this race well. Don’t let me become disqualified by sin. Keep me from getting sidetracked by stuff that doesn’t really matter stuff that blinds me, that slows me down, stuff that the devil uses to try get me out of the race. Help me stay in the race until the very end. You are the Champion. You have already run this race and you have already won. Help me act like a champion too.
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Run Eddy Run!
Scripture
Hebrews 12
God’s Discipline Proves His Love
1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. 2 We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne. 3 Think of all the hostility he endured from sinful people; then you won’t become weary and give up. 4 After all, you have not yet given your lives in your struggle against sin.
Observation
The Christian Life is a race so “Run Eddy Run! Strip off everything that is slowing you down and RUN! How do we run the race? We run the race with our eyes fixed on Jesus. He is the starting line and the finish line.
How are you doing in this Christian Marathon? It is not a wind sprint; you need to be in this race for the long haul. Are you ready? Have you realized you are in a race? Are you struggling today? If you are then get rid of all the stuff that is slowing you down. Get rid of it right now! Run the race with everything that you’ve got!
Application
I will run with all my heart today the race that God has put before me. How about you?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, give me energy to finish this race well. Don’t let me become disqualified by sin. Keep me from getting sidetracked by stuff that doesn’t really matter stuff that blinds me, that slows me down, stuff that the devil uses to try get me out of the race. Help me stay in the race until the very end. You are the Champion. You have already run this race and you have already won. Help me act like a champion too.
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Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Pleasing God
Isaiah 19; Isaiah 20; Isaiah 21; Hebrews 11
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Pleasing God
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
Yes of course God loves us, but is He pleased with us … that is the question? Are you living your life in a way that would please Him, are you living your life in a way that would make Him smile? Are you living your life by faith?
Are you living a life of faith? What were your thoughts focused on this morning when you woke up? Were you talking to God about your plans for today first thing this morning or were your thoughts and concerns on stuff without even bringing God into the picture?
A life of faith includes God in every situation.
Application
I will think about everything I do today and see if I am doing it on my own or if I am including God in each situation.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me walk by faith today. Show me that I can trust You. It is my desire to live today in a way that will make You smile. I pray that every concern I have will be passed by You today. You are able to take care of my every need and You are more than able to take care of my every concern. Nothing is too hard for You.
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Pleasing God
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
Yes of course God loves us, but is He pleased with us … that is the question? Are you living your life in a way that would please Him, are you living your life in a way that would make Him smile? Are you living your life by faith?
Are you living a life of faith? What were your thoughts focused on this morning when you woke up? Were you talking to God about your plans for today first thing this morning or were your thoughts and concerns on stuff without even bringing God into the picture?
A life of faith includes God in every situation.
Application
I will think about everything I do today and see if I am doing it on my own or if I am including God in each situation.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me walk by faith today. Show me that I can trust You. It is my desire to live today in a way that will make You smile. I pray that every concern I have will be passed by You today. You are able to take care of my every need and You are more than able to take care of my every concern. Nothing is too hard for You.
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Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Let Us Go Right Into The Presence of God
Isaiah 15; Isaiah 16; Isaiah 17; Isaiah 18; Hebrews 10
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Let Us Go Right Into The Presence of God
Scripture
Hebrews 10
19 And so, dear brothers and sisters, we can boldly enter heaven’s Most Holy Place because of the blood of Jesus. 20 By his death, Jesus opened a new and life-giving way through the curtain into the Most Holy Place. 21 And since we have a great High Priest who rules over God’s house, 22 let us go right into the presence of God with sincere hearts fully trusting him. For our guilty consciences have been sprinkled with Christ’s blood to make us clean, and our bodies have been washed with pure water.
23 Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise. 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.
Observation
Because we have been given the privilege of going directly into the presence of God and we have been given all of His great promises lets think of ways to motivate others towards acts of love and good works. Lets encourage each other.
Lets encourage those that have started missing church and small group and let’s get them back in fellowship.
Application
I will encourage some that have been sporadic in attendance to get back into fellowship.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me think of those that I need to encourage today. Put on my heart those that need a phone call, a card or a visit. I pray for our church today. I pray that they will look to Your word today for strength and for guidance. Use them today in the lives of those that they come in contact with. Help our church be the church You want us to be.
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Let Us Go Right Into The Presence of God
Scripture
Hebrews 10
19 And so, dear brothers and sisters, we can boldly enter heaven’s Most Holy Place because of the blood of Jesus. 20 By his death, Jesus opened a new and life-giving way through the curtain into the Most Holy Place. 21 And since we have a great High Priest who rules over God’s house, 22 let us go right into the presence of God with sincere hearts fully trusting him. For our guilty consciences have been sprinkled with Christ’s blood to make us clean, and our bodies have been washed with pure water.
23 Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise. 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.
Observation
Because we have been given the privilege of going directly into the presence of God and we have been given all of His great promises lets think of ways to motivate others towards acts of love and good works. Lets encourage each other.
Lets encourage those that have started missing church and small group and let’s get them back in fellowship.
Application
I will encourage some that have been sporadic in attendance to get back into fellowship.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me think of those that I need to encourage today. Put on my heart those that need a phone call, a card or a visit. I pray for our church today. I pray that they will look to Your word today for strength and for guidance. Use them today in the lives of those that they come in contact with. Help our church be the church You want us to be.
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Monday, July 12, 2010
R U Ready?
Isaiah 11; Isaiah 12; Isaiah 13; Isaiah 14; Hebrews 9
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R U Ready?
Scripture
Hebrews 9
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
Each one of us will face death it is one of the certainties of this life. Are you ready to die? If you were to die today where would you spend eternity?
Judgment comes after our death what kind of judgment will you face?
Did you notice that when Christ comes again it will not be to judge believers for their sins, but it will be to bring salvation! You see when a person puts their trust and faith in what Jesus Christ did on the cross for them then his or her sins are forgiven. Jesus has paid for the penalty for the sins that they have committed.
Jesus died as a sacrifice to take away the sins of all of those that trust in Him. Have you trusted in Christ for your salvation? Have you asked Him to come into Your life as Lord and as Savior? Are your sins forgiven?
One day you and I are going to die? R U Ready?
Application
I will look for someone to share this Good News with this week. How about you?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for providing me forgiveness for my sins. Thank You for sending Jesus to die once in my place taking the punishment that I deserve. I am ready to meet You. I am not afraid to die. You are my Lord and my Savior. You are everything that I need. I desire You more than anything on this earth!
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R U Ready?
Scripture
Hebrews 9
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
Each one of us will face death it is one of the certainties of this life. Are you ready to die? If you were to die today where would you spend eternity?
Judgment comes after our death what kind of judgment will you face?
Did you notice that when Christ comes again it will not be to judge believers for their sins, but it will be to bring salvation! You see when a person puts their trust and faith in what Jesus Christ did on the cross for them then his or her sins are forgiven. Jesus has paid for the penalty for the sins that they have committed.
Jesus died as a sacrifice to take away the sins of all of those that trust in Him. Have you trusted in Christ for your salvation? Have you asked Him to come into Your life as Lord and as Savior? Are your sins forgiven?
One day you and I are going to die? R U Ready?
Application
I will look for someone to share this Good News with this week. How about you?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for providing me forgiveness for my sins. Thank You for sending Jesus to die once in my place taking the punishment that I deserve. I am ready to meet You. I am not afraid to die. You are my Lord and my Savior. You are everything that I need. I desire You more than anything on this earth!
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Sunday, July 11, 2010
Our High Priest and So Much More!
Isaiah 8; Isaiah 9; Isaiah 10; Hebrews 8
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Our High Priest and So Much More!
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.
Isaiah 9
6 For a child is born to us,
a son is given to us.
The government will rest on his shoulders.
And he will be called:
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
7 His government and its peace
will never end.
He will rule with fairness and justice from the throne of his ancestor David
for all eternity.
Observation
Jesus came as a Babe in a manger, but now He is at the right hand of God and is our High Priest. He will be called “Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace”. He is Ruler of this universe. He is King of kings and Lord of lords!
Application
I will take everything to Jesus Who hears me and Who answers my prayers.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, You are my Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace, and my High Priest. In You I have everything that I need. I am blessed. Help me today to lead our church in worshiping You! May Jesus be glorified and lifted up today. This is the day that You have made we will rejoice and be glad in it!
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Our High Priest and So Much More!
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.
Isaiah 9
6 For a child is born to us,
a son is given to us.
The government will rest on his shoulders.
And he will be called:
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
7 His government and its peace
will never end.
He will rule with fairness and justice from the throne of his ancestor David
for all eternity.
Observation
Jesus came as a Babe in a manger, but now He is at the right hand of God and is our High Priest. He will be called “Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace”. He is Ruler of this universe. He is King of kings and Lord of lords!
Application
I will take everything to Jesus Who hears me and Who answers my prayers.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, You are my Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace, and my High Priest. In You I have everything that I need. I am blessed. Help me today to lead our church in worshiping You! May Jesus be glorified and lifted up today. This is the day that You have made we will rejoice and be glad in it!
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Saturday, July 10, 2010
The Perfect High Priest That Lives Forever!
Micah 5; Micah 6; Micah 7; Hebrews 7
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The Perfect High Priest That Lives Forever!
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.
26 He is the kind of high priest we need because he is holy and blameless, unstained by sin. He has been set apart from sinners and has been given the highest place of honor in heaven. 27 Unlike those other high priests, he does not need to offer sacrifices every day. They did this for their own sins first and then for the sins of the people. But Jesus did this once for all when he offered himself as the sacrifice for the people’s sins.
28 The law appointed high priests who were limited by human weakness. But after the law was given, God appointed his Son with an oath, and his Son has been made the perfect High Priest forever.
Observation
We no longer need a priest to go between God and us because Jesus has become our high priest Who lives forever as our High Priest to intercede on our behalf.
For there is only one God and one Mediator who can reconcile God and people. He is the man Christ Jesus. [6] He gave his life to purchase freedom for everyone. This is the message that God gave to the world at the proper time. 1 Tim. 2:5-6
Application
I will thank the Lord that He is constantly interceding on my behalf. I have forgiveness through Him.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You that I don’t need a high priest or anyone else to go between You and me. I can go directly to You because Jesus has paid the ransom for me and He is now at Your right hand interceding for me and for all that calls Him their Lord and Savior. Thank You that I can approach Your throne with boldness because of what Jesus has done for me.
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The Perfect High Priest That Lives Forever!
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.
26 He is the kind of high priest we need because he is holy and blameless, unstained by sin. He has been set apart from sinners and has been given the highest place of honor in heaven. 27 Unlike those other high priests, he does not need to offer sacrifices every day. They did this for their own sins first and then for the sins of the people. But Jesus did this once for all when he offered himself as the sacrifice for the people’s sins.
28 The law appointed high priests who were limited by human weakness. But after the law was given, God appointed his Son with an oath, and his Son has been made the perfect High Priest forever.
Observation
We no longer need a priest to go between God and us because Jesus has become our high priest Who lives forever as our High Priest to intercede on our behalf.
For there is only one God and one Mediator who can reconcile God and people. He is the man Christ Jesus. [6] He gave his life to purchase freedom for everyone. This is the message that God gave to the world at the proper time. 1 Tim. 2:5-6
Application
I will thank the Lord that He is constantly interceding on my behalf. I have forgiveness through Him.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You that I don’t need a high priest or anyone else to go between You and me. I can go directly to You because Jesus has paid the ransom for me and He is now at Your right hand interceding for me and for all that calls Him their Lord and Savior. Thank You that I can approach Your throne with boldness because of what Jesus has done for me.
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Friday, July 09, 2010
Anchor For Our Souls!
Micah 1; Micah 2; Micah 3; Micah 4; Hebrews 6
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Anchor for Our Souls!
Scripture
Hebrews 6
18 So God has given both his promise and his oath. These two things are unchangeable because it is impossible for God to lie. 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
We can count on what God promises and it is an anchor for our souls. An anchor keeps you from getting off course. It also holds us when life is tossing us around. God’s promises provide the strong and trustworthy anchor for our souls.
Do you feel tossed about today? Why not dig into God’s promises in His word today and let them anchor your soul.
Application
As I read God’s word today I know that it is what keeps me going. His word is my strength and it gives me confidence.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, Your word have I hidden in my heart so I won’t sin against You. Your word gives me confidence. It is an anchor for my soul. It keeps me from being tossed about by every little problem that comes my way. Thank You for providing for my every need. You are worthy to be praised.
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Anchor for Our Souls!
Scripture
Hebrews 6
18 So God has given both his promise and his oath. These two things are unchangeable because it is impossible for God to lie. 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
We can count on what God promises and it is an anchor for our souls. An anchor keeps you from getting off course. It also holds us when life is tossing us around. God’s promises provide the strong and trustworthy anchor for our souls.
Do you feel tossed about today? Why not dig into God’s promises in His word today and let them anchor your soul.
Application
As I read God’s word today I know that it is what keeps me going. His word is my strength and it gives me confidence.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, Your word have I hidden in my heart so I won’t sin against You. Your word gives me confidence. It is an anchor for my soul. It keeps me from being tossed about by every little problem that comes my way. Thank You for providing for my every need. You are worthy to be praised.
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Thursday, July 08, 2010
Baby Christians
Hosea 13; Hosea 14; Psalm 100; Psalm 101; Psalm 102; Hebrews 5
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Baby Christians
Scripture
Hebrews 5
11 There is much more we would like to say about this, but it is difficult to explain, especially since you are spiritually dull and don’t seem to listen. 12 You have been believers so long now that you ought to be teaching others. Instead, you need someone to teach you again the basic things about God’s word. You are like babies who need milk and cannot eat solid food. 13 For someone who lives on milk is still an infant and doesn’t know how to do what is right. 14 Solid food is for those who are mature, who through training have the skill to recognize the difference between right and wrong.
Observation
Baby Christians are not babies because they have just been born again, no, you can be a baby Christian because you have not grown like you should. These Christians that the writer of Hebrews is talking to have been in the faith a long time but have not grown spiritually like they should have grown. Are you growing like you should be growing? Are you helping someone else grow in the faith? If your answer to those questions is no then my question to you is why not? Why don’t you help someone else grow in his or her faith? Why not? You can do it. You just need to be a little further along the road, a little ahead of them to be able to lead them. Why don’t you find someone today that needs some help and help him or her?
Application
I will look for someone that wants to grow and help them in their Christian walk.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me find someone that needs to be encouraged in their faith and show me how to help them.
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Baby Christians
Scripture
Hebrews 5
11 There is much more we would like to say about this, but it is difficult to explain, especially since you are spiritually dull and don’t seem to listen. 12 You have been believers so long now that you ought to be teaching others. Instead, you need someone to teach you again the basic things about God’s word. You are like babies who need milk and cannot eat solid food. 13 For someone who lives on milk is still an infant and doesn’t know how to do what is right. 14 Solid food is for those who are mature, who through training have the skill to recognize the difference between right and wrong.
Observation
Baby Christians are not babies because they have just been born again, no, you can be a baby Christian because you have not grown like you should. These Christians that the writer of Hebrews is talking to have been in the faith a long time but have not grown spiritually like they should have grown. Are you growing like you should be growing? Are you helping someone else grow in the faith? If your answer to those questions is no then my question to you is why not? Why don’t you help someone else grow in his or her faith? Why not? You can do it. You just need to be a little further along the road, a little ahead of them to be able to lead them. Why don’t you find someone today that needs some help and help him or her?
Application
I will look for someone that wants to grow and help them in their Christian walk.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me find someone that needs to be encouraged in their faith and show me how to help them.
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Wednesday, July 07, 2010
Hosea 10; Hosea 11; Hosea 12; Psalm 73; Hebrews 4
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God is the Strength of My Heart
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
The Psalmist is looking at all of the ungodly and how it seems like they have it all: good health, lots of money and lots of stuff without any problems or worries. He seems to ask himself for a moment why should he live a godly life if this is how the ungodly are rewarded for living so wickedly and in his life he struggles with problems and difficulties but then He goes to the temple and God reveals to him the fate of the wicked.
What seems to be such a good life that a wicked enjoys is really a life heading for certain disaster and destruction!
So the Psalmist returns to give praise to God and makes a powerful statement of his faith! “Whom have I in heaven but you? I desire you more than anything on earth. My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart; he is mine forever.”
Application
I agree with the Psalmist and I also desire God more than anything on earth!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, “Whom have I in heaven but you? I desire you more than anything on earth. My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart; he is mine forever.”
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God is the Strength of My Heart
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
The Psalmist is looking at all of the ungodly and how it seems like they have it all: good health, lots of money and lots of stuff without any problems or worries. He seems to ask himself for a moment why should he live a godly life if this is how the ungodly are rewarded for living so wickedly and in his life he struggles with problems and difficulties but then He goes to the temple and God reveals to him the fate of the wicked.
What seems to be such a good life that a wicked enjoys is really a life heading for certain disaster and destruction!
So the Psalmist returns to give praise to God and makes a powerful statement of his faith! “Whom have I in heaven but you? I desire you more than anything on earth. My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart; he is mine forever.”
Application
I agree with the Psalmist and I also desire God more than anything on earth!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, “Whom have I in heaven but you? I desire you more than anything on earth. My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart; he is mine forever.”
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Tuesday, July 06, 2010
Today!
Hosea 6; Hosea 7; Hosea 8; Hosea 9; Hebrews 3
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Today!
Scripture
Hebrews 3
7 That is why the Holy Spirit says,
“Today when you hear his voice,
Observation
Today…there are 24 hours that make up today and God says that we need to take advantage of today to live for Him. God is not a God that is so concerned with our past, but He is very concerned about how we live Today! How are you going to live this day? Will you please Him? Will you live it thinking about Him? Or will you live it just thinking about yourself? Most people will live it totally on themselves and will spend it without giving a thought about their Creator.
Application
I will think of this 24 hours that God has given me and I will think about Him during this day.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, it is so good to read Your word. I hungered for Your word this morning and looked forward to spending time with You. You are an awesome God. A Wonderful and Mighty Creator. I give You praise this morning.
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Today!
Scripture
Hebrews 3
7 That is why the Holy Spirit says,
“Today when you hear his voice,
Observation
Today…there are 24 hours that make up today and God says that we need to take advantage of today to live for Him. God is not a God that is so concerned with our past, but He is very concerned about how we live Today! How are you going to live this day? Will you please Him? Will you live it thinking about Him? Or will you live it just thinking about yourself? Most people will live it totally on themselves and will spend it without giving a thought about their Creator.
Application
I will think of this 24 hours that God has given me and I will think about Him during this day.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, it is so good to read Your word. I hungered for Your word this morning and looked forward to spending time with You. You are an awesome God. A Wonderful and Mighty Creator. I give You praise this morning.
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Monday, July 05, 2010
Satan Had Power Over Death...Had
Hosea 2; Hosea 3; Hosea 4; Hosea 5; Hebrews 2
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Satan Had Power Over Death…Had
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
Had … Satan had power over death, but no more! We do not have to fear death any longer because Jesus Christ has conquered death. The devil evidently used to have power over death, but no longer. The devil is still powerful, but not as powerful as the One Who lives in us!
Are you afraid of dying? If you are have you ever asked yourself why? Maybe it is a lack of faith or maybe it is just because you haven’t meditated on this passage. We have been set free from worrying about death because Jesus died and came back to life to show us that He has conquered death.
Application
I will walk in victory today because Jesus has set me free from the fear of death.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for dying in my place so that I can live with You forever.
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Satan Had Power Over Death…Had
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
Had … Satan had power over death, but no more! We do not have to fear death any longer because Jesus Christ has conquered death. The devil evidently used to have power over death, but no longer. The devil is still powerful, but not as powerful as the One Who lives in us!
Are you afraid of dying? If you are have you ever asked yourself why? Maybe it is a lack of faith or maybe it is just because you haven’t meditated on this passage. We have been set free from worrying about death because Jesus died and came back to life to show us that He has conquered death.
Application
I will walk in victory today because Jesus has set me free from the fear of death.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for dying in my place so that I can live with You forever.
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Sunday, July 04, 2010
Guardian Angels
2 Kings 15; 2 Kings 16; Hosea 1; Hebrews 1
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Guardian Angels
Scripture
Hebrews 1
14 Therefore, angels are only servants—spirits sent to care for people who will inherit salvation.
Observation
Do you believe in angels? Do you believe that God has an angel that takes care of you? I know that Hebrews 1:14 says that the purpose of angels is “to care for people who will inherit salvation” and that includes me…how about you?
Angels are nothing like Christ is the point the writer of Hebrews is making and I don’t know whether it was because they were worshiping angels or they were just putting too much emphasis on them. I know that it was necessary to correct their view of angels and it helps us better understand their purpose too.
Application
I believe that angels are around us to protect us. And the fallen angels are around us to harass us.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for providing angels to protect and care for us. I am sure that my guardian angel if I have one is working over time these days. Thank You for always watching out for us even when we do stuff that is stupid. Thank You for loving us and protecting us.
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Guardian Angels
Scripture
Hebrews 1
14 Therefore, angels are only servants—spirits sent to care for people who will inherit salvation.
Observation
Do you believe in angels? Do you believe that God has an angel that takes care of you? I know that Hebrews 1:14 says that the purpose of angels is “to care for people who will inherit salvation” and that includes me…how about you?
Angels are nothing like Christ is the point the writer of Hebrews is making and I don’t know whether it was because they were worshiping angels or they were just putting too much emphasis on them. I know that it was necessary to correct their view of angels and it helps us better understand their purpose too.
Application
I believe that angels are around us to protect us. And the fallen angels are around us to harass us.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for providing angels to protect and care for us. I am sure that my guardian angel if I have one is working over time these days. Thank You for always watching out for us even when we do stuff that is stupid. Thank You for loving us and protecting us.
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Saturday, July 03, 2010
Prepare a Guest Room
Isaiah 6; Isaiah 7; 2 Chronicles 26; 2 Chronicles 27; Philemon 1
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Prepare a Guest Room
Scripture
Philemon 1
21 I am confident as I write this letter that you will do what I ask and even more! 22 One more thing—please prepare a guest room for me, for I am hoping that God will answer your prayers and let me return to you soon.
Observation
What if someone in your church wrote you and told you to prepare a guest room for them what would be your response? Paul knew Philemon and was asking him to spare the life of his slave Onesimus and then he asked him to prepare a room for him so it would be ready when he came for a visit.
Paul had been in prison. In fact, Paul spent a lot of time in and out of prison, but his concern was for his new disciple Onesimus. Evidently Paul had led Philemon to the Lord also so Philemon was also a spiritual son just like Onesimus and he was writing Philemon so Philemon would accept Onesimus as a new brother in Christ rather than a runaway slave.
What a relationship Paul had with Philemon to be able to say to him, “can you please prepare a room for me because I plan to stay with you when I come your way”! Can we do the same thing or are there people that could do the same thing with us?
Application
I want people to be able to say to us, “we are coming your way and we plan on staying with you.” I need to show them that they are welcome and that our house is their house.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, Paul was hospitable and he was caring. He knew that Philemon owed him his very soul and he knew that he would take Onesimus back as a brother in Christ. Help me to be like Paul and help me to focus on people and their needs more than anything else.
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Prepare a Guest Room
Scripture
Philemon 1
21 I am confident as I write this letter that you will do what I ask and even more! 22 One more thing—please prepare a guest room for me, for I am hoping that God will answer your prayers and let me return to you soon.
Observation
What if someone in your church wrote you and told you to prepare a guest room for them what would be your response? Paul knew Philemon and was asking him to spare the life of his slave Onesimus and then he asked him to prepare a room for him so it would be ready when he came for a visit.
Paul had been in prison. In fact, Paul spent a lot of time in and out of prison, but his concern was for his new disciple Onesimus. Evidently Paul had led Philemon to the Lord also so Philemon was also a spiritual son just like Onesimus and he was writing Philemon so Philemon would accept Onesimus as a new brother in Christ rather than a runaway slave.
What a relationship Paul had with Philemon to be able to say to him, “can you please prepare a room for me because I plan to stay with you when I come your way”! Can we do the same thing or are there people that could do the same thing with us?
Application
I want people to be able to say to us, “we are coming your way and we plan on staying with you.” I need to show them that they are welcome and that our house is their house.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, Paul was hospitable and he was caring. He knew that Philemon owed him his very soul and he knew that he would take Onesimus back as a brother in Christ. Help me to be like Paul and help me to focus on people and their needs more than anything else.
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Friday, July 02, 2010
Childlike Faith
Isaiah 4; Isaiah 5; Psalm 115; Psalm 116; Jude 1
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Childlike Faith
Scripture
Psalm 116
6 “The LORD protects those of childlike faith…”
Observation
Jesus says the same thing to his disciples and He is saying the same thing to us today. Do you have childlike faith? Do you? Do I have childlike faith? Do I? Think about a small child and what faith they have in the adults that care for them. It is complete total trust and that is what God is saying that we must have in Him.
Listen to the verses that come before verse six: 1 I love the LORD because he hears my voice and my prayer for mercy. Because he bends down to listen, I will pray as long as I have breath! Death wrapped its ropes around me; the terrors of the grave overtook me. I saw only trouble and sorrow. Then I called on the name of the LORD: “Please, LORD, save me!” How kind the LORD is! How good he is! So merciful, this God of ours!
We can trust Him. We can trust him just like a small child can trust his Mom and Dad only our God never messes up that trust like we as parents sometimes do. He is always faithful.
Application
I will trust Him today with childlike faith. How about you?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to trust You with the faith of a small child. Help me to walk with You today. Help me to please You with the way I act. Thank You for taking care of me. Thank You for providing for my family and me. Thank You for blessing our church so much. You are a Mighty God Who is Worthy of our praise!
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Childlike Faith
Scripture
Psalm 116
6 “The LORD protects those of childlike faith…”
Observation
Jesus says the same thing to his disciples and He is saying the same thing to us today. Do you have childlike faith? Do you? Do I have childlike faith? Do I? Think about a small child and what faith they have in the adults that care for them. It is complete total trust and that is what God is saying that we must have in Him.
Listen to the verses that come before verse six: 1 I love the LORD because he hears my voice and my prayer for mercy. Because he bends down to listen, I will pray as long as I have breath! Death wrapped its ropes around me; the terrors of the grave overtook me. I saw only trouble and sorrow. Then I called on the name of the LORD: “Please, LORD, save me!” How kind the LORD is! How good he is! So merciful, this God of ours!
We can trust Him. We can trust him just like a small child can trust his Mom and Dad only our God never messes up that trust like we as parents sometimes do. He is always faithful.
Application
I will trust Him today with childlike faith. How about you?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to trust You with the faith of a small child. Help me to walk with You today. Help me to please You with the way I act. Thank You for taking care of me. Thank You for providing for my family and me. Thank You for blessing our church so much. You are a Mighty God Who is Worthy of our praise!
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Thursday, July 01, 2010
Learning to Do Good!
Isaiah 1; Isaiah 2; Isaiah 3; Titus 3
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Learning to Do Good!
Scripture
Titus 3
13 Do everything you can to help Zenas the lawyer and Apollos with their trip. See that they are given everything they need. 14 Our people must learn to do good by meeting the urgent needs of others; then they will not be unproductive.
Observation
Paul says that you learn to do good by helping fulfill the urgent needs of others. You learn to do good by doing good things for other people.
Application
I will look for some way to do something good for somebody today!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we learn by doing and so today show me who needs to be helped. I will be open to help you ever you put in my path. Don’t let me miss the opportunity. You are a Mighty God. You are my Provider. I have everything that I need. I am blessed. I pray that today that the police would find the man that killed the two police officers and I pray that he would not hurt anyone else.
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Learning to Do Good!
Scripture
Titus 3
13 Do everything you can to help Zenas the lawyer and Apollos with their trip. See that they are given everything they need. 14 Our people must learn to do good by meeting the urgent needs of others; then they will not be unproductive.
Observation
Paul says that you learn to do good by helping fulfill the urgent needs of others. You learn to do good by doing good things for other people.
Application
I will look for some way to do something good for somebody today!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we learn by doing and so today show me who needs to be helped. I will be open to help you ever you put in my path. Don’t let me miss the opportunity. You are a Mighty God. You are my Provider. I have everything that I need. I am blessed. I pray that today that the police would find the man that killed the two police officers and I pray that he would not hurt anyone else.
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