Want to Get Away!
2 Samuel 19; 2 Samuel 20; Psalm 55; Matthew 28
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Scripture
Psalm 55
1 LISTEN TO my prayer, O God, and hide not Yourself from my supplication!
2 Attend to me and answer me; I am restless and distraught in my complaint and must moan
3 [And I am distracted] at the noise of the enemy, because of the oppression and threats of the wicked; for they would cast trouble upon me, and in wrath they persecute me.
4 My heart is grievously pained within me, and the terrors of death have fallen upon me.
5 Fear and trembling have come upon me; horror and fright have overwhelmed me.
6 And I say, Oh, that I had wings like a dove! I would fly away and be at rest.
7 Yes, I would wander far away, I would lodge in the wilderness. Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]!
8 I would hasten to escape and to find a shelter from the stormy wind and tempest.
Observation
Have you ever felt like just getting away?
Maybe you feel like that right now!
I think all of us do now and then. David was no different only he had a lot more to get away from. As I read about David in I and II Samuel and in the Psalms I realize that his life was extremely painful. Sometimes we only think about David the King who killed Goliath, or David the Psalm writer, but David spent most of his life on the run and the other part of his life killing enemies.
He spent more time in caves than in palaces, more time on the run than time spent running the kingdom! Most of his life was a sad, difficult existence, but he never quit coming back and getting things right with His God. Over and over again we see David crying out to God and God delivered him. David made some huge mistakes just like we do, but he realize that God was His fortress and his strength.
This is a wonderful verse that David writes after sharing that he had been betrayed by his closest friend, Psalms 55:22 “Cast your burden on the Lord and He will sustain you; He will never allow the righteous to be moved.”
Application
May I get away today and find my strength in God.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, today we are taking our granddaughters to the state park. Help me think about you as we enjoy our grandchildren and enjoy your creation. May you continue to be my rock. Thank you for taking care of my burdens and for sustaining me. Thank you for protecting my family me and from the evil one.
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Friday, May 11, 2007
Tuesday, May 08, 2007
Heaven/Hell… Sheep/Goats!
2 Samuel 15; 2 Samuel 16; Psalm 32; Matthew 25
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Scripture
The Sheep and the Goats
Matthew 25
31 "When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his throne in heavenly glory. 32 All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. 33 He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.
34 "Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. 35 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36 I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.'
37 "Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38 When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39 When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'
40 "The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'
41 "Then he will say to those on his left, 'Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. 42 For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, 43 I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.'
44 "They also will answer, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?'
45 "He will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.'
46 "Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life."
Observation
Are you a Goat, or are you a Sheep? It is going to make a huge difference when Jesus comes in His Glory and all of us appear before Him at His throne! The Bible says that He is going to separate the Sheep from the Goats and the Goats are going to eternal punishment, but the Sheep to eternal life. So are you a Goat, or are you a Sheep? A Sheep is someone that has placed their trust and faith in what Jesus did on the cross and has asked Jesus to save them. So here is the test; do you demonstrate a relationship with Christ by your good works or the lack of a relationship with Christ by your lack of good works.
Application
Do you look and/or smell more like a goat or a sheep? What am I doing for others in Jesus’ Name?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me act like an obedient sheep. You are my shepherd. I look forward to the day when I stand before your throne to worship you. You are worthy to be Praised!
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2 Samuel 15; 2 Samuel 16; Psalm 32; Matthew 25
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Scripture
The Sheep and the Goats
Matthew 25
31 "When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his throne in heavenly glory. 32 All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. 33 He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.
34 "Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. 35 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36 I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.'
37 "Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38 When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39 When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'
40 "The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'
41 "Then he will say to those on his left, 'Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. 42 For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, 43 I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.'
44 "They also will answer, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?'
45 "He will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.'
46 "Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life."
Observation
Are you a Goat, or are you a Sheep? It is going to make a huge difference when Jesus comes in His Glory and all of us appear before Him at His throne! The Bible says that He is going to separate the Sheep from the Goats and the Goats are going to eternal punishment, but the Sheep to eternal life. So are you a Goat, or are you a Sheep? A Sheep is someone that has placed their trust and faith in what Jesus did on the cross and has asked Jesus to save them. So here is the test; do you demonstrate a relationship with Christ by your good works or the lack of a relationship with Christ by your lack of good works.
Application
Do you look and/or smell more like a goat or a sheep? What am I doing for others in Jesus’ Name?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me act like an obedient sheep. You are my shepherd. I look forward to the day when I stand before your throne to worship you. You are worthy to be Praised!
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Sunday, May 06, 2007
The Danger of Beauty!
2 Samuel 11; 2 Samuel 12; Psalm 51; Matthew 23
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Scripture
2 Samuel 11
2 One evening David got up from his bed and walked around on the roof of the palace. From the roof he saw a woman bathing. The woman was very beautiful, 3 and David sent someone to find out about her. The man said, "Isn't this Bathsheba, the daughter of Eliam and the wife of Uriah the Hittite?" 4 Then David sent messengers to get her. She came to him, and he slept with her.
Psalm 51
1 Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions. 2 Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin. 3 For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me. 4 Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight, so that you are proved right when you speak and justified when you judge. 5 Surely I was sinful at birth, 6 Surely you desire truth in the inner parts; you teach me wisdom in the inmost place. 7 Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. 8 Let me hear joy and gladness; let the bones you have crushed rejoice. 9 Hide your face from my sins and blot out all my iniquity. 10 Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
Observation
David should have been out with his army, but instead he stayed home in his palace. When he looked and saw Bathsheba the look turned to lust. He was king and could have anything that he desired and at that moment he desired someone else’s wife. His focus was off of his God and he was driven by desire. It cost him dearly. After committing adultery he then murdered trying to cover up the sin. But God sent Nathan to confront David and David repented. Psalm 51 contains the words of a broken David, one who recognized his sin and finally confessed them. Even though David was forgiven of his sin the consequences that followed were terrible. I imagine that David often thought about how foolish it was to take Bathsheba that evening, but he had to live with the consequences of that sin the rest of his life.
Application
Guard your heart! Don’t let the glance become a stare and the stare become lust and lust become a David and Bathsheba moment!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, protect me from myself and help me to guard my heart. Keep me from sin that could destroy my family, my ministry, and me. Thank you for giving me this example of David with Bathsheba so I can learn from it.
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2 Samuel 11; 2 Samuel 12; Psalm 51; Matthew 23
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Scripture
2 Samuel 11
2 One evening David got up from his bed and walked around on the roof of the palace. From the roof he saw a woman bathing. The woman was very beautiful, 3 and David sent someone to find out about her. The man said, "Isn't this Bathsheba, the daughter of Eliam and the wife of Uriah the Hittite?" 4 Then David sent messengers to get her. She came to him, and he slept with her.
Psalm 51
1 Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions. 2 Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin. 3 For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me. 4 Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight, so that you are proved right when you speak and justified when you judge. 5 Surely I was sinful at birth, 6 Surely you desire truth in the inner parts; you teach me wisdom in the inmost place. 7 Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. 8 Let me hear joy and gladness; let the bones you have crushed rejoice. 9 Hide your face from my sins and blot out all my iniquity. 10 Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
Observation
David should have been out with his army, but instead he stayed home in his palace. When he looked and saw Bathsheba the look turned to lust. He was king and could have anything that he desired and at that moment he desired someone else’s wife. His focus was off of his God and he was driven by desire. It cost him dearly. After committing adultery he then murdered trying to cover up the sin. But God sent Nathan to confront David and David repented. Psalm 51 contains the words of a broken David, one who recognized his sin and finally confessed them. Even though David was forgiven of his sin the consequences that followed were terrible. I imagine that David often thought about how foolish it was to take Bathsheba that evening, but he had to live with the consequences of that sin the rest of his life.
Application
Guard your heart! Don’t let the glance become a stare and the stare become lust and lust become a David and Bathsheba moment!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, protect me from myself and help me to guard my heart. Keep me from sin that could destroy my family, my ministry, and me. Thank you for giving me this example of David with Bathsheba so I can learn from it.
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Friday, May 04, 2007
Who is Going to be in Heaven?
2 Samuel 8; 2 Samuel 9; 1 Chronicles 18; 1 Chronicles 19; Matthew 21
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Scripture
Parable of the Two Sons
Matthew 21
28 “But what do you think about this? A man with two sons told the older boy, ‘Son, go out and work in the vineyard today.’ 29 The son answered, ‘No, I won’t go,’ but later he changed his mind and went anyway. 30 Then the father told the other son, ‘You go,’ and he said, ‘Yes, sir, I will.’ But he didn’t go.
31 “Which of the two obeyed his father?”
They replied, “The first.”
Then Jesus explained his meaning: “I tell you the truth, corrupt tax collectors and prostitutes will get into the Kingdom of God before you do. 32 For John the Baptist came and showed you the right way to live, but you didn’t believe him, while tax collectors and prostitutes did. And even when you saw this happening, you refused to believe him and repent of your sins.
Observation
I am sure that we are going to be surprised when we get to Heaven at the people we see and the people we don’t see! It all has to do with that very important word used in the Bible, “REPENT”. The word means to turn, to change direction. In the Bible it means to turn from sin and self and turn to God. Unless you and I have done that we aren’t going to Heaven and all the corrupt politicians and all prostitutes that have repented will be in Heaven enjoying it while we pass eternity in Hell!
Application
I have turned from sin and self and I have turned to God. Now I need to help others understand that they need to do the same thing.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for changing my heart and giving me a new heart that is fixed on you. Thank you for working in my life and saving me. Help me lead others to understand the need to repent and follow you. Bring people into my life that need to hear the Good News.
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2 Samuel 8; 2 Samuel 9; 1 Chronicles 18; 1 Chronicles 19; Matthew 21
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Scripture
Parable of the Two Sons
Matthew 21
28 “But what do you think about this? A man with two sons told the older boy, ‘Son, go out and work in the vineyard today.’ 29 The son answered, ‘No, I won’t go,’ but later he changed his mind and went anyway. 30 Then the father told the other son, ‘You go,’ and he said, ‘Yes, sir, I will.’ But he didn’t go.
31 “Which of the two obeyed his father?”
They replied, “The first.”
Then Jesus explained his meaning: “I tell you the truth, corrupt tax collectors and prostitutes will get into the Kingdom of God before you do. 32 For John the Baptist came and showed you the right way to live, but you didn’t believe him, while tax collectors and prostitutes did. And even when you saw this happening, you refused to believe him and repent of your sins.
Observation
I am sure that we are going to be surprised when we get to Heaven at the people we see and the people we don’t see! It all has to do with that very important word used in the Bible, “REPENT”. The word means to turn, to change direction. In the Bible it means to turn from sin and self and turn to God. Unless you and I have done that we aren’t going to Heaven and all the corrupt politicians and all prostitutes that have repented will be in Heaven enjoying it while we pass eternity in Hell!
Application
I have turned from sin and self and I have turned to God. Now I need to help others understand that they need to do the same thing.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for changing my heart and giving me a new heart that is fixed on you. Thank you for working in my life and saving me. Help me lead others to understand the need to repent and follow you. Bring people into my life that need to hear the Good News.
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Wednesday, May 02, 2007
Make Me a Kid at Heart!
1 Chronicles 16; Psalm 106; Matthew 19
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Scripture
Jesus Blesses the Children
Matthew 19
13 One day some parents brought their children to Jesus so he could lay his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples scolded the parents for bothering him.
14 But Jesus said, “Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to those who are like these children.” 15 And he placed his hands on their heads and blessed them before he left.
Observation
Have you ever watched small children play? We were watching one of our granddaughters this past weekend while we were in Savannah for the funeral of Kathy’s sister. As we were watching her at the hotel’s pool she began to play with a little boy about her age (4). She made friends with the little boy immediately and when we decided to leave the pool she didn’t want to leave her new best friend. Jesus says that we need to have hearts like that of a child if we are going to be a part of the kingdom of Heaven. We need a heart that is trusting, sincere, pure, transparent, clean, open, and teachable; we need a heart like God’s.
Application
Psalm 51:10 Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a loyal spirit within me.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, give me a pure heart, cleanse me and renew a right spirit within me. Give me a heart like that of a small child, a heart that is pleasing to you. Guide me today in my thoughts and my actions so that I may bring you glory.
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1 Chronicles 16; Psalm 106; Matthew 19
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Scripture
Jesus Blesses the Children
Matthew 19
13 One day some parents brought their children to Jesus so he could lay his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples scolded the parents for bothering him.
14 But Jesus said, “Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to those who are like these children.” 15 And he placed his hands on their heads and blessed them before he left.
Observation
Have you ever watched small children play? We were watching one of our granddaughters this past weekend while we were in Savannah for the funeral of Kathy’s sister. As we were watching her at the hotel’s pool she began to play with a little boy about her age (4). She made friends with the little boy immediately and when we decided to leave the pool she didn’t want to leave her new best friend. Jesus says that we need to have hearts like that of a child if we are going to be a part of the kingdom of Heaven. We need a heart that is trusting, sincere, pure, transparent, clean, open, and teachable; we need a heart like God’s.
Application
Psalm 51:10 Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a loyal spirit within me.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, give me a pure heart, cleanse me and renew a right spirit within me. Give me a heart like that of a small child, a heart that is pleasing to you. Guide me today in my thoughts and my actions so that I may bring you glory.
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Tuesday, May 01, 2007
The Danger of Not Forgiving!
1 Chronicles 14; 1 Chronicles 15; Psalm 132; Matthew 18
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Scripture
Matthew 18:21-35
21 Then Peter came to him and asked, “Lord, how often should I forgive someone who sins against me? Seven times?”
22 “No, not seven times,” Jesus replied, “but seventy times seven!
23 “Therefore, the Kingdom of Heaven can be compared to a king who decided to bring his accounts up to date with servants who had borrowed money from him. 24 In the process, one of his debtors was brought in who owed him millions of dollars. 25 He couldn’t pay, so his master ordered that he be sold—along with his wife, his children, and everything he owned—to pay the debt.
26 “But the man fell down before his master and begged him, ‘Please, be patient with me, and I will pay it all.’ 27 Then his master was filled with pity for him, and he released him and forgave his debt.
28 “But when the man left the king, he went to a fellow servant who owed him a few thousand dollars. He grabbed him by the throat and demanded instant payment.
29 “His fellow servant fell down before him and begged for a little more time. ‘Be patient with me, and I will pay it,’ he pleaded. 30 But his creditor wouldn’t wait. He had the man arrested and put in prison until the debt could be paid in full.
31 “When some of the other servants saw this, they were very upset. They went to the king and told him everything that had happened. 32 Then the king called in the man he had forgiven and said, ‘You evil servant! I forgave you that tremendous debt because you pleaded with me. 33 Shouldn’t you have mercy on your fellow servant, just as I had mercy on you?’ 34 Then the angry king sent the man to prison to be tortured until he had paid his entire debt.
35 “That’s what my heavenly Father will do to you if you refuse to forgive your brothers and sisters from your heart.”
Observation
Matthew 18 is loaded with important stuff and I could have written about humility, or the steps to getting things right with an offended brother, but I chose instead to write about the danger of refusing to forgive. I have watched people who have made the choice to not forgive and it has ruined them.
God gives us this warning in verse 35 “That’s what my heavenly Father will do to you if you refuse to forgive your brothers and sisters from your heart.” Look out! You better forgive! God will deal with you severely if you don’t forgive. Because having a heart that will not forgive is just the opposite of having a heart like God’s! Forgiveness is what nailed God’s Son to the cross and yet we say that we are not going to forgive.
Is there someone that you are mad with today? God says to forgive them 70 times 7 if you need to. Forgive them everyday if you need to, but don’t let your heart be filled with junk. Guard your heart! Let it go! Forgive!
Application
Who do I need to go the second mile with today? Who needs my forgiveness?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for Matthew 18 and all that is in it. Help me to treat my brothers and sisters with love and respect. Thank you for what you are doing in the lives of people around me. Help me to model your love and your forgiveness today to those I come in contact with. Help me be an encouragement to someone today.
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1 Chronicles 14; 1 Chronicles 15; Psalm 132; Matthew 18
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Scripture
Matthew 18:21-35
21 Then Peter came to him and asked, “Lord, how often should I forgive someone who sins against me? Seven times?”
22 “No, not seven times,” Jesus replied, “but seventy times seven!
23 “Therefore, the Kingdom of Heaven can be compared to a king who decided to bring his accounts up to date with servants who had borrowed money from him. 24 In the process, one of his debtors was brought in who owed him millions of dollars. 25 He couldn’t pay, so his master ordered that he be sold—along with his wife, his children, and everything he owned—to pay the debt.
26 “But the man fell down before his master and begged him, ‘Please, be patient with me, and I will pay it all.’ 27 Then his master was filled with pity for him, and he released him and forgave his debt.
28 “But when the man left the king, he went to a fellow servant who owed him a few thousand dollars. He grabbed him by the throat and demanded instant payment.
29 “His fellow servant fell down before him and begged for a little more time. ‘Be patient with me, and I will pay it,’ he pleaded. 30 But his creditor wouldn’t wait. He had the man arrested and put in prison until the debt could be paid in full.
31 “When some of the other servants saw this, they were very upset. They went to the king and told him everything that had happened. 32 Then the king called in the man he had forgiven and said, ‘You evil servant! I forgave you that tremendous debt because you pleaded with me. 33 Shouldn’t you have mercy on your fellow servant, just as I had mercy on you?’ 34 Then the angry king sent the man to prison to be tortured until he had paid his entire debt.
35 “That’s what my heavenly Father will do to you if you refuse to forgive your brothers and sisters from your heart.”
Observation
Matthew 18 is loaded with important stuff and I could have written about humility, or the steps to getting things right with an offended brother, but I chose instead to write about the danger of refusing to forgive. I have watched people who have made the choice to not forgive and it has ruined them.
God gives us this warning in verse 35 “That’s what my heavenly Father will do to you if you refuse to forgive your brothers and sisters from your heart.” Look out! You better forgive! God will deal with you severely if you don’t forgive. Because having a heart that will not forgive is just the opposite of having a heart like God’s! Forgiveness is what nailed God’s Son to the cross and yet we say that we are not going to forgive.
Is there someone that you are mad with today? God says to forgive them 70 times 7 if you need to. Forgive them everyday if you need to, but don’t let your heart be filled with junk. Guard your heart! Let it go! Forgive!
Application
Who do I need to go the second mile with today? Who needs my forgiveness?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for Matthew 18 and all that is in it. Help me to treat my brothers and sisters with love and respect. Thank you for what you are doing in the lives of people around me. Help me to model your love and your forgiveness today to those I come in contact with. Help me be an encouragement to someone today.
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Monday, April 30, 2007
What’s Wrong With Dancing!
2 Samuel 6; 1 Chronicles 13; Psalm 68; Matthew 17
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Scripture
Michal’s Contempt for David
2 Samuel 6
16 But as the Ark of the LORD entered the City of David, Michal, the daughter of Saul, looked down from her window. When she saw King David leaping and dancing before the LORD, she was filled with contempt for him.
17 They brought the Ark of the LORD and set it in its place inside the special tent David had prepared for it. And David sacrificed burnt offerings and peace offerings to the LORD. 18 When he had finished his sacrifices, David blessed the people in the name of the LORD of Heaven’s Armies. 19 Then he gave to every Israelite man and woman in the crowd a loaf of bread, a cake of dates, and a cake of raisins. Then all the people returned to their homes.
20 When David returned home to bless his own family, Michal, the daughter of Saul, came out to meet him. She said in disgust, “How distinguished the king of Israel looked today, shamelessly exposing himself to the servant girls like any vulgar person might do!”
21 David retorted to Michal, “I was dancing before the LORD, who chose me above your father and all his family! He appointed me as the leader of Israel, the people of the LORD, so I celebrate before the LORD. 22 Yes, and I am willing to look even more foolish than this, even to be humiliated in my own eyes! But those servant girls you mentioned will indeed think I am distinguished!” 23 So Michal, the daughter of Saul, remained childless throughout her entire life.
Observation
Michal husband embarrassed her and she got mad! David was expressing his joy over the Ark of the Lord and burst out in wild dancing and Michal saw him and was filled with disgust. I don’t think that this was a David problem I think that she had a God problem. David had an intimate relationship with God that Michal must not have had. Of course, that is just my guess, but God severely punished her for her wrong attitude about David’s dancing and God’s anointed. Sometimes we can have some very wrong attitudes about the behavior of other people and how they worship the Lord. It is not our business how someone else is led to worship God; we need to focus on Him not on them.
Application
Have you danced before the Lord lately? How about lifting up your hands to Him? Have you gotten up early this week to meet Him for worship? Why not get in your car, crank up your favorite Christian radio station and sing out to Him with all your heart on your way to work!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, give me the heart of David and keep me from having the heart of Michal! Lord, I want this day to be a day of worship! Show me your mighty power today. You are an awesome God.
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2 Samuel 6; 1 Chronicles 13; Psalm 68; Matthew 17
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Scripture
Michal’s Contempt for David
2 Samuel 6
16 But as the Ark of the LORD entered the City of David, Michal, the daughter of Saul, looked down from her window. When she saw King David leaping and dancing before the LORD, she was filled with contempt for him.
17 They brought the Ark of the LORD and set it in its place inside the special tent David had prepared for it. And David sacrificed burnt offerings and peace offerings to the LORD. 18 When he had finished his sacrifices, David blessed the people in the name of the LORD of Heaven’s Armies. 19 Then he gave to every Israelite man and woman in the crowd a loaf of bread, a cake of dates, and a cake of raisins. Then all the people returned to their homes.
20 When David returned home to bless his own family, Michal, the daughter of Saul, came out to meet him. She said in disgust, “How distinguished the king of Israel looked today, shamelessly exposing himself to the servant girls like any vulgar person might do!”
21 David retorted to Michal, “I was dancing before the LORD, who chose me above your father and all his family! He appointed me as the leader of Israel, the people of the LORD, so I celebrate before the LORD. 22 Yes, and I am willing to look even more foolish than this, even to be humiliated in my own eyes! But those servant girls you mentioned will indeed think I am distinguished!” 23 So Michal, the daughter of Saul, remained childless throughout her entire life.
Observation
Michal husband embarrassed her and she got mad! David was expressing his joy over the Ark of the Lord and burst out in wild dancing and Michal saw him and was filled with disgust. I don’t think that this was a David problem I think that she had a God problem. David had an intimate relationship with God that Michal must not have had. Of course, that is just my guess, but God severely punished her for her wrong attitude about David’s dancing and God’s anointed. Sometimes we can have some very wrong attitudes about the behavior of other people and how they worship the Lord. It is not our business how someone else is led to worship God; we need to focus on Him not on them.
Application
Have you danced before the Lord lately? How about lifting up your hands to Him? Have you gotten up early this week to meet Him for worship? Why not get in your car, crank up your favorite Christian radio station and sing out to Him with all your heart on your way to work!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, give me the heart of David and keep me from having the heart of Michal! Lord, I want this day to be a day of worship! Show me your mighty power today. You are an awesome God.
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Wednesday, April 25, 2007
How You Finish The Race Is Most Important!
1 Samuel 30; 1 Samuel 31; 1 Chronicles 10; Matthew 12
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Scripture
1 Chronicles 10
13 So Saul died because he was unfaithful to the LORD. He failed to obey the LORD’s command, and he even consulted a medium 14 instead of asking the LORD for guidance. So the LORD killed him and turned the kingdom over to David son of Jesse.
Observation
How important is obedience? It is everything with God! Saul was unfaithful to the Lord and it cost him everything. He and his three sons died in battle; his family would no longer rule Israel. Disobedience cost him everything. Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not unto your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him and he will direct your path.”
Application
Are there strongholds of disobedience in your life? Is there something that you are doing and you know it is in direct disobedience to what God has told you? Remember! Finishing the race well is most important! Obey today!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to please you. Lord, show me any area of my life that is not yielded to you and your will. I want to have an obedient heart for you.
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1 Samuel 30; 1 Samuel 31; 1 Chronicles 10; Matthew 12
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Scripture
1 Chronicles 10
13 So Saul died because he was unfaithful to the LORD. He failed to obey the LORD’s command, and he even consulted a medium 14 instead of asking the LORD for guidance. So the LORD killed him and turned the kingdom over to David son of Jesse.
Observation
How important is obedience? It is everything with God! Saul was unfaithful to the Lord and it cost him everything. He and his three sons died in battle; his family would no longer rule Israel. Disobedience cost him everything. Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not unto your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him and he will direct your path.”
Application
Are there strongholds of disobedience in your life? Is there something that you are doing and you know it is in direct disobedience to what God has told you? Remember! Finishing the race well is most important! Obey today!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to please you. Lord, show me any area of my life that is not yielded to you and your will. I want to have an obedient heart for you.
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Tuesday, April 24, 2007
Gentle + Humble = A Great Leader!
1 Samuel 28; 1 Samuel 29; Psalm 109; Matthew 11
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Scripture
Matthew 11
28 “Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.”
Observation
Humility and gentleness are marks of a true leader. Jesus had just talked about what a tremendous prophet John the Baptist was and yet he was rejected just like Jesus was rejected. Those that rejected the message of John the Baptist and had rejected Jesus would suffer for eternity. But anyone that would just come to Jesus, anyone that was teachable, anyone that was weary and loaded down by heavy burdens could find rest.
Application
Does your soul need a rest…then come to Jesus!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for allowing me to know you in a personal way. Thank you that I can find rest in you. Teach me to be gentle and help me to be humble so that I can lead people the way that I should.
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1 Samuel 28; 1 Samuel 29; Psalm 109; Matthew 11
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Scripture
Matthew 11
28 “Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.”
Observation
Humility and gentleness are marks of a true leader. Jesus had just talked about what a tremendous prophet John the Baptist was and yet he was rejected just like Jesus was rejected. Those that rejected the message of John the Baptist and had rejected Jesus would suffer for eternity. But anyone that would just come to Jesus, anyone that was teachable, anyone that was weary and loaded down by heavy burdens could find rest.
Application
Does your soul need a rest…then come to Jesus!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for allowing me to know you in a personal way. Thank you that I can find rest in you. Teach me to be gentle and help me to be humble so that I can lead people the way that I should.
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Monday, April 23, 2007
Importance Of An Open House!
1 Samuel 27; Psalm 141; 1 Chronicles 9; Matthew 10
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Scripture
Matthew 10
11 “Whenever you enter a city or village, search for a worthy person and stay in his home until you leave town. 12 When you enter the home, give it your blessing. 13 If it turns out to be a worthy home, let your blessing stand; if it is not, take back the blessing. 14 If any household or town refuses to welcome you or listen to your message, shake its dust from your feet as you leave. 15 I tell you the truth, the wicked cities of Sodom and Gomorrah will be better off than such a town on the judgment day.
Observation
If one of the twelve disciples knocked on our door would we invite them in and would our homes be open for a small group of seekers. The disciples were sent out on a mission trip and they were to knock on doors until they found a “son of peace” who would invite them in. They were to stay in that home and use that home as a base of operation to reach others living near by.
How open are we to using our homes for small groups? There is no better place to evangelize than your open home. Do people feel welcome? I can’t wait to be able to use our home for small groups and guests. Right now we don’t have a home and it is extremely painful not to have small group at our house. The activities room at church is nice but it is no substitute for the warm atmosphere of someone’s home. Let me encourage you to open up your home and let a small group meet at your place!
Application
How can we be more “sons of peace” in the weeks ahead? Invite someone to your house this week.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, Kathy and I look forward to the day when we have a home again and have people in it as our guests. We realize that all of that is in your hands and we wait anxiously to one day having our own place again. Thank you for our small groups and I pray that others would open their homes to begin new ones. Thank you for all that you have blessed us with.
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1 Samuel 27; Psalm 141; 1 Chronicles 9; Matthew 10
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Scripture
Matthew 10
11 “Whenever you enter a city or village, search for a worthy person and stay in his home until you leave town. 12 When you enter the home, give it your blessing. 13 If it turns out to be a worthy home, let your blessing stand; if it is not, take back the blessing. 14 If any household or town refuses to welcome you or listen to your message, shake its dust from your feet as you leave. 15 I tell you the truth, the wicked cities of Sodom and Gomorrah will be better off than such a town on the judgment day.
Observation
If one of the twelve disciples knocked on our door would we invite them in and would our homes be open for a small group of seekers. The disciples were sent out on a mission trip and they were to knock on doors until they found a “son of peace” who would invite them in. They were to stay in that home and use that home as a base of operation to reach others living near by.
How open are we to using our homes for small groups? There is no better place to evangelize than your open home. Do people feel welcome? I can’t wait to be able to use our home for small groups and guests. Right now we don’t have a home and it is extremely painful not to have small group at our house. The activities room at church is nice but it is no substitute for the warm atmosphere of someone’s home. Let me encourage you to open up your home and let a small group meet at your place!
Application
How can we be more “sons of peace” in the weeks ahead? Invite someone to your house this week.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, Kathy and I look forward to the day when we have a home again and have people in it as our guests. We realize that all of that is in your hands and we wait anxiously to one day having our own place again. Thank you for our small groups and I pray that others would open their homes to begin new ones. Thank you for all that you have blessed us with.
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Friday, April 20, 2007
One of David’s Secret Weapons!
Dependence on the Lord!
1 Samuel 23; Psalm 31; Psalm 54; Matthew 7
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Scripture
1 Samuel 23
1 When David was told, "Look, the Philistines are fighting against Keilah and are looting the threshing floors," 2 he inquired of the LORD, saying, "Shall I go and attack these Philistines?"
The LORD answered him, "Go, attack the Philistines and save Keilah."
3 But David's men said to him, "Here in Judah we are afraid. How much more, then, if we go to Keilah against the Philistine forces!"
4 Once again David inquired of the LORD, and the LORD answered him, "Go down to Keilah, for I am going to give the Philistines into your hand." 5 So David and his men went to Keilah, fought the Philistines and carried off their livestock. He inflicted heavy losses on the Philistines and saved the people of Keilah. 6 (Now Abiathar son of Ahimelech had brought the ephod down with him when he fled to David at Keilah.)
Psalm 31:
14 But I trust in you, O LORD; I say, "You are my God." My times are in your hands; deliver me from my enemies and from those who pursue me. Let your face shine on your servant; save me in your unfailing love.
Psalm 54
2 Hear my prayer, O God; listen to the words of my mouth. Surely God is my help; the Lord is the one who sustains me. For he has delivered me from all my troubles, and my eyes have looked in triumph on my foes.
Observation
I don’t know how David developed the habit of total dependence on the Lord, but I know that it helped having to run for his life as Saul attempted to kill him. David was wise enough to talk to God and God delivered him time after time. There were a few times in his life where David did not depend on God and the consequences were severe, but most of his life he was a “man after God’s own heart”.
Application
God wants me to talk to Him about everything that is going on in my life. He wants me to depend on Him. And He desires that same relationship with you!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to seek your face and bring every issue I am facing to you. Help me today shine for you. Bless those that are going camping with the R.A.’s today. I pray that some of the “dads” will be touched today with your power and I pray that you bring them into your family!
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Dependence on the Lord!
1 Samuel 23; Psalm 31; Psalm 54; Matthew 7
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Scripture
1 Samuel 23
1 When David was told, "Look, the Philistines are fighting against Keilah and are looting the threshing floors," 2 he inquired of the LORD, saying, "Shall I go and attack these Philistines?"
The LORD answered him, "Go, attack the Philistines and save Keilah."
3 But David's men said to him, "Here in Judah we are afraid. How much more, then, if we go to Keilah against the Philistine forces!"
4 Once again David inquired of the LORD, and the LORD answered him, "Go down to Keilah, for I am going to give the Philistines into your hand." 5 So David and his men went to Keilah, fought the Philistines and carried off their livestock. He inflicted heavy losses on the Philistines and saved the people of Keilah. 6 (Now Abiathar son of Ahimelech had brought the ephod down with him when he fled to David at Keilah.)
Psalm 31:
14 But I trust in you, O LORD; I say, "You are my God." My times are in your hands; deliver me from my enemies and from those who pursue me. Let your face shine on your servant; save me in your unfailing love.
Psalm 54
2 Hear my prayer, O God; listen to the words of my mouth. Surely God is my help; the Lord is the one who sustains me. For he has delivered me from all my troubles, and my eyes have looked in triumph on my foes.
Observation
I don’t know how David developed the habit of total dependence on the Lord, but I know that it helped having to run for his life as Saul attempted to kill him. David was wise enough to talk to God and God delivered him time after time. There were a few times in his life where David did not depend on God and the consequences were severe, but most of his life he was a “man after God’s own heart”.
Application
God wants me to talk to Him about everything that is going on in my life. He wants me to depend on Him. And He desires that same relationship with you!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to seek your face and bring every issue I am facing to you. Help me today shine for you. Bless those that are going camping with the R.A.’s today. I pray that some of the “dads” will be touched today with your power and I pray that you bring them into your family!
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Tuesday, April 17, 2007
Fishing…For Men!
1 Samuel 19; 1 Chronicles 7; Psalm 59; Matthew 4
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Scripture
The Calling of the First Disciples
Matthew 4:18-22
"As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. 19 "Come, follow me," Jesus said, "and I will make you fishers of men." 20 At once they left their nets and followed him.
21 Going on from there, he saw two other brothers, James son of Zebedee and his brother John. They were in a boat with their father Zebedee, preparing their nets. Jesus called them, 22 and immediately they left the boat and their father and followed him."
Observation
I love to fish and I think that it is great that Jesus loves guys that love to fish! The first four guys to become his disciples loved to fish! I wonder why Jesus didn’t choose four shepherds first instead of four fishermen. His command to them was and still is today, “Come Follow Me” and I will make you fishers of men! How did you get caught? How are you at fishing for men/women? I like it because Jesus called simple fishermen instead of educated lawyers or doctors or theologians, just simple plain fishermen! I would have loved to be there. Can you imagine what their fathers’ thought? I wonder if they already knew Jesus or at least already knew about Him? I wonder if the fathers also became Christ-Followers, or I wonder if the Dads also became “Fishers of Men”? I love these stories don’t you!
Application
Bottom line…Jesus is calling us to be “Fishers of Men”! How’s the fishing? Catching anything?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I want to be a fisher of men. Father, help my focus be on this task. Help me put all the other stuff in its place and keep this commandment as the most important. Lord, bring me close to some fish (men) today that need to be caught!
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1 Samuel 19; 1 Chronicles 7; Psalm 59; Matthew 4
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Scripture
The Calling of the First Disciples
Matthew 4:18-22
"As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. 19 "Come, follow me," Jesus said, "and I will make you fishers of men." 20 At once they left their nets and followed him.
21 Going on from there, he saw two other brothers, James son of Zebedee and his brother John. They were in a boat with their father Zebedee, preparing their nets. Jesus called them, 22 and immediately they left the boat and their father and followed him."
Observation
I love to fish and I think that it is great that Jesus loves guys that love to fish! The first four guys to become his disciples loved to fish! I wonder why Jesus didn’t choose four shepherds first instead of four fishermen. His command to them was and still is today, “Come Follow Me” and I will make you fishers of men! How did you get caught? How are you at fishing for men/women? I like it because Jesus called simple fishermen instead of educated lawyers or doctors or theologians, just simple plain fishermen! I would have loved to be there. Can you imagine what their fathers’ thought? I wonder if they already knew Jesus or at least already knew about Him? I wonder if the fathers also became Christ-Followers, or I wonder if the Dads also became “Fishers of Men”? I love these stories don’t you!
Application
Bottom line…Jesus is calling us to be “Fishers of Men”! How’s the fishing? Catching anything?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I want to be a fisher of men. Father, help my focus be on this task. Help me put all the other stuff in its place and keep this commandment as the most important. Lord, bring me close to some fish (men) today that need to be caught!
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Monday, April 16, 2007
Jonathan and David!
1 Samuel 18; 1 Chronicles 6; Psalm 11; Matthew 3
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Scripture
Saul's Jealousy of David
1 Samuel 18:1-4
“After David had finished talking with Saul, Jonathan became one in spirit with David, and he loved him as himself. 2 From that day Saul kept David with him and did not let him return to his father's house. 3 And Jonathan made a covenant with David because he loved him as himself. 4 Jonathan took off the robe he was wearing and gave it to David, along with his tunic, and even his sword, his bow and his belt.”
Observation
Being best friends with the son of his worst enemy now isn’t that interesting! David and Jonathan loved each other deeply as best friends. They would risk their lives for each other and they did. This friendship shows us men the importance of building a strong relationship with another man. Some have tried to point to this friendship and say that it was a homosexual relationship, but nothing could be further from the truth. It was a deep love for each other in the same way Christ loved his 12 disciples.
Application
It is important to build strong relationships/friendships with men if you are a man and with women if you are a woman. Each of us needs the accountability of a close friend! Work on building those relationships!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for the guys in my life that hold me accountable and are my friends. Thank you for bringing them into my life. Help me to be a true friend to them.
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1 Samuel 18; 1 Chronicles 6; Psalm 11; Matthew 3
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Scripture
Saul's Jealousy of David
1 Samuel 18:1-4
“After David had finished talking with Saul, Jonathan became one in spirit with David, and he loved him as himself. 2 From that day Saul kept David with him and did not let him return to his father's house. 3 And Jonathan made a covenant with David because he loved him as himself. 4 Jonathan took off the robe he was wearing and gave it to David, along with his tunic, and even his sword, his bow and his belt.”
Observation
Being best friends with the son of his worst enemy now isn’t that interesting! David and Jonathan loved each other deeply as best friends. They would risk their lives for each other and they did. This friendship shows us men the importance of building a strong relationship with another man. Some have tried to point to this friendship and say that it was a homosexual relationship, but nothing could be further from the truth. It was a deep love for each other in the same way Christ loved his 12 disciples.
Application
It is important to build strong relationships/friendships with men if you are a man and with women if you are a woman. Each of us needs the accountability of a close friend! Work on building those relationships!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for the guys in my life that hold me accountable and are my friends. Thank you for bringing them into my life. Help me to be a true friend to them.
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Sunday, April 15, 2007
God Picks Folks Differently Than We Do!
1 Samuel 15; 1 Samuel 16; 1 Chronicles 5; Matthew 1
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Scripture
1 Samuel 16:6 “When they arrived, Samuel saw Eliab and thought, "Surely the LORD's anointed stands here before the LORD."
7 But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart."
8 Then Jesse called Abinadab and had him pass in front of Samuel. But Samuel said, "The LORD has not chosen this one either." 9 Jesse then had Shammah pass by, but Samuel said, "Nor has the LORD chosen this one." 10 Jesse had seven of his sons pass before Samuel, but Samuel said to him, "The LORD has not chosen these." 11 So he asked Jesse, "Are these all the sons you have?"
"There is still the youngest," Jesse answered, "but he is tending the sheep."
Samuel said, "Send for him; we will not sit down [a] until he arrives."
12 So he sent and had him brought in. He was ruddy, with a fine appearance and handsome features.
Then the LORD said, "Rise and anoint him; he is the one."
13 So Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and from that day on the Spirit of the LORD came upon David in power. Samuel then went to Ramah.”
Observation
I have been wrong so many times about people!
I look and I see someone and maybe spend some time with them and I think that the person will make a great leader or great servant for the Lord only to see them crash and not serve at all. Then to my amazement God picks someone that I didn’t see much in and God makes them a great leader/servant! God can see the heart and we judge by the outer appearance. I am amazed and very grateful that God uses me and allows me to serve Him. What a great experience it is to be a part of His Kingdom.
Samuel didn’t see the leader in David, but God did. David was the runt of a litter of eight, he was the baby in the family, but God chose him to be the next king of Israel, and through the lineage of David would come the Messiah!
Application
May I have better discernment as I try to help people develop into a better leaders and better servants.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, you ask us to pray to the Lord of the Harvest to send more laborers into His Harvest. Today I am asking that you send us more laborers to Tampa Baptist Church to help us with the harvest. Father, show me how to help our people become greater leaders and better servants. Help me to lead them better. Give me wisdom and discernment for today.
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1 Samuel 15; 1 Samuel 16; 1 Chronicles 5; Matthew 1
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Scripture
1 Samuel 16:6 “When they arrived, Samuel saw Eliab and thought, "Surely the LORD's anointed stands here before the LORD."
7 But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart."
8 Then Jesse called Abinadab and had him pass in front of Samuel. But Samuel said, "The LORD has not chosen this one either." 9 Jesse then had Shammah pass by, but Samuel said, "Nor has the LORD chosen this one." 10 Jesse had seven of his sons pass before Samuel, but Samuel said to him, "The LORD has not chosen these." 11 So he asked Jesse, "Are these all the sons you have?"
"There is still the youngest," Jesse answered, "but he is tending the sheep."
Samuel said, "Send for him; we will not sit down [a] until he arrives."
12 So he sent and had him brought in. He was ruddy, with a fine appearance and handsome features.
Then the LORD said, "Rise and anoint him; he is the one."
13 So Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and from that day on the Spirit of the LORD came upon David in power. Samuel then went to Ramah.”
Observation
I have been wrong so many times about people!
I look and I see someone and maybe spend some time with them and I think that the person will make a great leader or great servant for the Lord only to see them crash and not serve at all. Then to my amazement God picks someone that I didn’t see much in and God makes them a great leader/servant! God can see the heart and we judge by the outer appearance. I am amazed and very grateful that God uses me and allows me to serve Him. What a great experience it is to be a part of His Kingdom.
Samuel didn’t see the leader in David, but God did. David was the runt of a litter of eight, he was the baby in the family, but God chose him to be the next king of Israel, and through the lineage of David would come the Messiah!
Application
May I have better discernment as I try to help people develop into a better leaders and better servants.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, you ask us to pray to the Lord of the Harvest to send more laborers into His Harvest. Today I am asking that you send us more laborers to Tampa Baptist Church to help us with the harvest. Father, show me how to help our people become greater leaders and better servants. Help me to lead them better. Give me wisdom and discernment for today.
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Tuesday, April 10, 2007
OK…You Want to Fight!
1 Samuel 8; 1 Samuel 9; 1 Samuel 10; 2 Corinthians 10
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Scripture
Paul's Defense of His Ministry
2 Corinthians 10:1-11
“By the meekness and gentleness of Christ, I appeal to you—I, Paul, who am "timid" when face to face with you, but "bold" when away! 2 I beg you that when I come I may not have to be as bold as I expect to be toward some people who think that we live by the standards of this world. 3 For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. 4 The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. 5 We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. 6 And we will be ready to punish every act of disobedience, once your obedience is complete.
7 You are looking only on the surface of things. If anyone is confident that he belongs to Christ, he should consider again that we belong to Christ just as much as he. 8 For even if I boast somewhat freely about the authority the Lord gave us for building you up rather than pulling you down, I will not be ashamed of it. 9 I do not want to seem to be trying to frighten you with my letters. 10 For some say, "His letters are weighty and forceful, but in person he is unimpressive and his speaking amounts to nothing." 11 Such people should realize that what we are in our letters when we are absent, we will be in our actions when we are present.”
Observation
Paul is once again under attack by a group of Christians and he responds with power! He says that if you think that I am only strong in my letters just wait until I see you. Then he reminds them of the kind of power he has from God, a divine power that can demolish strongholds. He is not going to fight like the world does he is going to use weapons that are out of this world. Look out! We have that same divine arsenal and we can use it too! Don’t let anyone bully you around. Don’t let any sin take you captive!
Application
All of us come under attack it is normal as we live out the Christian life. How we fight back is what is important. Do we call on Divine power or do we fight just like the world does? The choice will be ours today. How will you choose to fight?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to rely on your power to meet today’s challenges. Help me to depend on all the resources you have for me to use. Thank you for guiding me today. I want to hear your voice today and be obedient to everything you desire. I pray for our people that they would draw from you today and that they would be strong and courageous as they encounter today’s battles.
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1 Samuel 8; 1 Samuel 9; 1 Samuel 10; 2 Corinthians 10
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Scripture
Paul's Defense of His Ministry
2 Corinthians 10:1-11
“By the meekness and gentleness of Christ, I appeal to you—I, Paul, who am "timid" when face to face with you, but "bold" when away! 2 I beg you that when I come I may not have to be as bold as I expect to be toward some people who think that we live by the standards of this world. 3 For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. 4 The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. 5 We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. 6 And we will be ready to punish every act of disobedience, once your obedience is complete.
7 You are looking only on the surface of things. If anyone is confident that he belongs to Christ, he should consider again that we belong to Christ just as much as he. 8 For even if I boast somewhat freely about the authority the Lord gave us for building you up rather than pulling you down, I will not be ashamed of it. 9 I do not want to seem to be trying to frighten you with my letters. 10 For some say, "His letters are weighty and forceful, but in person he is unimpressive and his speaking amounts to nothing." 11 Such people should realize that what we are in our letters when we are absent, we will be in our actions when we are present.”
Observation
Paul is once again under attack by a group of Christians and he responds with power! He says that if you think that I am only strong in my letters just wait until I see you. Then he reminds them of the kind of power he has from God, a divine power that can demolish strongholds. He is not going to fight like the world does he is going to use weapons that are out of this world. Look out! We have that same divine arsenal and we can use it too! Don’t let anyone bully you around. Don’t let any sin take you captive!
Application
All of us come under attack it is normal as we live out the Christian life. How we fight back is what is important. Do we call on Divine power or do we fight just like the world does? The choice will be ours today. How will you choose to fight?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to rely on your power to meet today’s challenges. Help me to depend on all the resources you have for me to use. Thank you for guiding me today. I want to hear your voice today and be obedient to everything you desire. I pray for our people that they would draw from you today and that they would be strong and courageous as they encounter today’s battles.
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Monday, April 09, 2007
Indescribable!
1 Samuel 6; 1 Samuel 7; Psalm 72; 2 Corinthians 9
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Scripture
2 Corinthians 9:15 “Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift”!
Observation
Easter! Indescribable! What Jesus did on the cross for us…Indescribable!
Paul is encouraging the Corinthians to give generously. He shares the law of the harvest, which is that when a person sows plentifully; then they will also reap plentifully! Paul says that God loves a generous giver and then he ends the chapter talking about God’s gift to us…salvation via His Son’s death on the cross which Paul describes as “Indescribable”!
Application
Thank God today for His “Indescribable Gift”!
Prayer
Father, thank you for giving me a gift that is truly “Indescribable”. Thank you for my salvation. Thank you for allowing me to serve You today. Help us today as we meet together for outreach. May you bless those that participate!
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1 Samuel 6; 1 Samuel 7; Psalm 72; 2 Corinthians 9
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Scripture
2 Corinthians 9:15 “Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift”!
Observation
Easter! Indescribable! What Jesus did on the cross for us…Indescribable!
Paul is encouraging the Corinthians to give generously. He shares the law of the harvest, which is that when a person sows plentifully; then they will also reap plentifully! Paul says that God loves a generous giver and then he ends the chapter talking about God’s gift to us…salvation via His Son’s death on the cross which Paul describes as “Indescribable”!
Application
Thank God today for His “Indescribable Gift”!
Prayer
Father, thank you for giving me a gift that is truly “Indescribable”. Thank you for my salvation. Thank you for allowing me to serve You today. Help us today as we meet together for outreach. May you bless those that participate!
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Thursday, April 05, 2007
It’s Just a Tent!
Ruth 1; Ruth 2; Psalm 53; Psalm 61; 2 Corinthians 5
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Scripture
2 Corinthians 5:1 “Now we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands.”
Observation
Paul says that this body that we live in is just a tent and it is getting ragged (Eddy paraphrase!). But we have something a whole lot better waiting for us in Heaven! In May we are planning an overnight camping trip with our granddaughters and we are looking forward to it. The thing about camping is that it is ok for a night or two but you don’t want to have to live in that tent forever! I am sure that we will look forward to getting back to our own beds no matter how good sleeping on the ground in the great outdoors will be! It doesn’t compare to the comforts of home! Heaven is going to be a million times better than that! I am reminded every morning when I wake up that this tent that I am living in is wearing out. It seems like everyday I wake up with a new ache or pain!
Application
Focus on what is eternal and not what is temporary! Invite someone to attend church with you this Easter!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for having a new body waiting for me in Heaven. I am sure going to need it. Help me take care of this body, but help me stay focused on the really important things in life which are the people around me. Help me to think more of them today than myself.
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Ruth 1; Ruth 2; Psalm 53; Psalm 61; 2 Corinthians 5
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Scripture
2 Corinthians 5:1 “Now we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands.”
Observation
Paul says that this body that we live in is just a tent and it is getting ragged (Eddy paraphrase!). But we have something a whole lot better waiting for us in Heaven! In May we are planning an overnight camping trip with our granddaughters and we are looking forward to it. The thing about camping is that it is ok for a night or two but you don’t want to have to live in that tent forever! I am sure that we will look forward to getting back to our own beds no matter how good sleeping on the ground in the great outdoors will be! It doesn’t compare to the comforts of home! Heaven is going to be a million times better than that! I am reminded every morning when I wake up that this tent that I am living in is wearing out. It seems like everyday I wake up with a new ache or pain!
Application
Focus on what is eternal and not what is temporary! Invite someone to attend church with you this Easter!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for having a new body waiting for me in Heaven. I am sure going to need it. Help me take care of this body, but help me stay focused on the really important things in life which are the people around me. Help me to think more of them today than myself.
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Tuesday, April 03, 2007
Who Do You Look Like?
Judges 17; Judges 18; Psalm 89; 2 Corinthians 3
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Scripture
2 Corinthians 3:17-18 “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. 18 And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.”
Observation
Have you ever been around some folks with a baby and everyone is saying, “The baby looks just like the mom, and some will usually say, “No, I think he/she looks like the dad”. We do reflect the appearance of our parents and in the same way we should reflect the image of the one who has given us spiritual rebirth! If you claim to have a personal relationship with Christ but act more like a lost person then maybe you better check and see if you have been born again! This scripture says that we that know Christ are being transformed everyday into His likeness!
Application
How am I reflecting Christ today?
Prayer
Father, help me to look and act like Jesus. I don’t want to act like someone that doesn’t know you. Guide me today and help me reflect you to the world around me.
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Judges 17; Judges 18; Psalm 89; 2 Corinthians 3
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Scripture
2 Corinthians 3:17-18 “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. 18 And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.”
Observation
Have you ever been around some folks with a baby and everyone is saying, “The baby looks just like the mom, and some will usually say, “No, I think he/she looks like the dad”. We do reflect the appearance of our parents and in the same way we should reflect the image of the one who has given us spiritual rebirth! If you claim to have a personal relationship with Christ but act more like a lost person then maybe you better check and see if you have been born again! This scripture says that we that know Christ are being transformed everyday into His likeness!
Application
How am I reflecting Christ today?
Prayer
Father, help me to look and act like Jesus. I don’t want to act like someone that doesn’t know you. Guide me today and help me reflect you to the world around me.
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Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Putting Away Childish Ways!
Judges 4; Judges 5; Psalm 39; Psalm 41; 1 Corinthians 13
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Scripture
1 Corinthians 13:11 “When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me.”
Observation
When you were a kid did you ever get mad when playing with your friends and just stomp off and go home taking your toys with you? Paul says that for kids it is the natural thing to do, but now as adults we need to stop those childish ways. We still have church members that get upset, pout up and go somewhere else to play taking their toys and family with them. They jump from one church to the other and as long as they get their way they are happy, but just let something happen that they don’t agree with and it is very easy for them to pick up their toys and go somewhere else to play.
How sad!
Plant your life in a fellowship and stick it out! You are going to have disagreements, you are going to get hurt by people, you will be disappointed sometimes, but if you hang in there you will build life long friends; and these friends will be your support through life’s most difficult times.
Application
I will re-read I Corinthians 13 one more time and think about the depth of my love for my brothers and sisters at Tampa Baptist.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for every person in our church even those people that don’t like me. In fact, Lord will you bless them extra today. Help me to hang in there with people that tend to be a pain. Help me to respond to people in a Christ-like way!
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Judges 4; Judges 5; Psalm 39; Psalm 41; 1 Corinthians 13
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Scripture
1 Corinthians 13:11 “When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me.”
Observation
When you were a kid did you ever get mad when playing with your friends and just stomp off and go home taking your toys with you? Paul says that for kids it is the natural thing to do, but now as adults we need to stop those childish ways. We still have church members that get upset, pout up and go somewhere else to play taking their toys and family with them. They jump from one church to the other and as long as they get their way they are happy, but just let something happen that they don’t agree with and it is very easy for them to pick up their toys and go somewhere else to play.
How sad!
Plant your life in a fellowship and stick it out! You are going to have disagreements, you are going to get hurt by people, you will be disappointed sometimes, but if you hang in there you will build life long friends; and these friends will be your support through life’s most difficult times.
Application
I will re-read I Corinthians 13 one more time and think about the depth of my love for my brothers and sisters at Tampa Baptist.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for every person in our church even those people that don’t like me. In fact, Lord will you bless them extra today. Help me to hang in there with people that tend to be a pain. Help me to respond to people in a Christ-like way!
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Monday, March 26, 2007
Are You Up to the Challenge!
Joshua 23; Joshua 24; Psalm 44; 1 Corinthians 11
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Scripture
1 Corinthians 11:1 “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.”
Observation
How many of us can tell people to follow our example?
Paul said, “Follow my example!” Can you say that? Can I say that? It should be the goal of our lives to live our lives in such a way that we would be examples for others to follow.
Application
What bad habits to you have that keep you from being a model for those around you? What do you need to stop doing and what do you need to start doing to be the right kind of example to the people closest to you?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me be able to say to everyone around me, “follow my example”. Reveal to me anything in my life that needs to be changed or that I need to stop doing and reveal to me habits that I need to build into my life that will help me be a better example to those around me.
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Joshua 23; Joshua 24; Psalm 44; 1 Corinthians 11
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Scripture
1 Corinthians 11:1 “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.”
Observation
How many of us can tell people to follow our example?
Paul said, “Follow my example!” Can you say that? Can I say that? It should be the goal of our lives to live our lives in such a way that we would be examples for others to follow.
Application
What bad habits to you have that keep you from being a model for those around you? What do you need to stop doing and what do you need to start doing to be the right kind of example to the people closest to you?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me be able to say to everyone around me, “follow my example”. Reveal to me anything in my life that needs to be changed or that I need to stop doing and reveal to me habits that I need to build into my life that will help me be a better example to those around me.
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Sunday, March 25, 2007
Does it Pass The “Glory” Test?
Joshua 21; Joshua 22; Psalm 47; 1 Corinthians 10
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Scripture
1 Corinthians 10:31 “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
Observation
Have you ever heard someone give this argument about drinking alcohol, well in the Bible the people drank wine? Drinking wine is not the real issue is it, but rather it is the motivation behind drinking the wine. Is it something that is going to bring God glory? Now if you are drinking wine as part of a Lord’s Supper celebration then yes, but if you are drinking wine for some kind of “physical high” then no! This goes for anything and everything that we do it needs to bring God glory! Does it pass the “Glory” test! Is what I am doing all about “me” or is what I am doing or about to do all about “Him”. It is an easy test for every area of our lives!
Application
What am I going to be involved in today that needs to be put to the “Glory” test!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me today make decisions based on you and what will bring you glory rather than what I like or what I want. Examine my heart today and reveal anything ugly in my heart so I can get it right with you. This is your day we will rejoice and be glad in it!
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Joshua 21; Joshua 22; Psalm 47; 1 Corinthians 10
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Scripture
1 Corinthians 10:31 “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
Observation
Have you ever heard someone give this argument about drinking alcohol, well in the Bible the people drank wine? Drinking wine is not the real issue is it, but rather it is the motivation behind drinking the wine. Is it something that is going to bring God glory? Now if you are drinking wine as part of a Lord’s Supper celebration then yes, but if you are drinking wine for some kind of “physical high” then no! This goes for anything and everything that we do it needs to bring God glory! Does it pass the “Glory” test! Is what I am doing all about “me” or is what I am doing or about to do all about “Him”. It is an easy test for every area of our lives!
Application
What am I going to be involved in today that needs to be put to the “Glory” test!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me today make decisions based on you and what will bring you glory rather than what I like or what I want. Examine my heart today and reveal anything ugly in my heart so I can get it right with you. This is your day we will rejoice and be glad in it!
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Friday, March 23, 2007
The Trouble With “Know It Alls”!
Joshua 15; Joshua 16; Joshua 17; 1 Corinthians 8
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Scripture
1 Corinthians 8:1-3
1 “Now about food sacrificed to idols: We know that we all possess knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up. 2 The man who thinks he knows something does not yet know as he ought to know. 3 But the man who loves God is known by God.
Observation
Have you ever encountered a “Know it All”, or maybe you are a “Know it All” they think they know everything and just want to put everyone else down. They are no fun to be around. We have people like that at work, even in our families, and yes even at church! They are arrogant and they believe that they are right and look down on anyone that disagrees with them! We will always have them and if we are not careful we could become one ourselves! The trouble with “know it alls” is that they are not teachable and you are wasting your time arguing with them. Love is different…it builds up! It edifies! It helps strengthen the body of Christ! Give me a person full of God’s love any day over the “know it all”! How about you?
Application
There was a fuss in the early church about eating food that had possibly been sacrificed to an idol. Paul lets the “know it alls” have it and teaches that we need to be considerate and loving with people that may be weaker than we are in the faith! Who needs your love today? Who can we call? Who can we encourage? Who can we help today? Today is my brother Rick’s birthday. Please pray that God will bless him today on his birthday!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me not be a “know it all” today. Help me learn from other people and show me today who I need to encourage. I want to please you today with my thoughts and with my actions.
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Joshua 15; Joshua 16; Joshua 17; 1 Corinthians 8
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Scripture
1 Corinthians 8:1-3
1 “Now about food sacrificed to idols: We know that we all possess knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up. 2 The man who thinks he knows something does not yet know as he ought to know. 3 But the man who loves God is known by God.
Observation
Have you ever encountered a “Know it All”, or maybe you are a “Know it All” they think they know everything and just want to put everyone else down. They are no fun to be around. We have people like that at work, even in our families, and yes even at church! They are arrogant and they believe that they are right and look down on anyone that disagrees with them! We will always have them and if we are not careful we could become one ourselves! The trouble with “know it alls” is that they are not teachable and you are wasting your time arguing with them. Love is different…it builds up! It edifies! It helps strengthen the body of Christ! Give me a person full of God’s love any day over the “know it all”! How about you?
Application
There was a fuss in the early church about eating food that had possibly been sacrificed to an idol. Paul lets the “know it alls” have it and teaches that we need to be considerate and loving with people that may be weaker than we are in the faith! Who needs your love today? Who can we call? Who can we encourage? Who can we help today? Today is my brother Rick’s birthday. Please pray that God will bless him today on his birthday!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me not be a “know it all” today. Help me learn from other people and show me today who I need to encourage. I want to please you today with my thoughts and with my actions.
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Thursday, March 22, 2007
The Time is Short!
Joshua 12; Joshua 13; Joshua 14; 1 Corinthians 7
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Scripture
1 Corinthians 7:29 …the time is short…!
Observation
Paul was talking about marriage and about whether folks should marry or not. He was discussing whether a believer married to an unbeliever should stay in the marriage and he was giving instructions based on the immorality of the times. Paul said that if you could stay single like he was that would be the best of all. Then he said that if you married it would cause more problems than if you remained single. You could serve the Lord with all your heart if you were single but if you married then you would have to also serve your spouse. Then he said, in verse 29…he said, “the time is short” and “this earth is fading away”! I wonder what Paul would say today if he was living in the United States! His statement is still true for us today, “time is short”, but I would add to his statement that we are fading away too! Our bodies are wearing out! Time is short!
Application
Time is short! What are you going to do today differently because of that fact?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me make good use of my time today. Guide my day today! Help me make it count for you!
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Joshua 12; Joshua 13; Joshua 14; 1 Corinthians 7
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Scripture
1 Corinthians 7:29 …the time is short…!
Observation
Paul was talking about marriage and about whether folks should marry or not. He was discussing whether a believer married to an unbeliever should stay in the marriage and he was giving instructions based on the immorality of the times. Paul said that if you could stay single like he was that would be the best of all. Then he said that if you married it would cause more problems than if you remained single. You could serve the Lord with all your heart if you were single but if you married then you would have to also serve your spouse. Then he said, in verse 29…he said, “the time is short” and “this earth is fading away”! I wonder what Paul would say today if he was living in the United States! His statement is still true for us today, “time is short”, but I would add to his statement that we are fading away too! Our bodies are wearing out! Time is short!
Application
Time is short! What are you going to do today differently because of that fact?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me make good use of my time today. Guide my day today! Help me make it count for you!
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Wednesday, March 21, 2007
A Prayer So Big That it Stopped The Sun and The Moon in Their Tracks!
Joshua 9; Joshua 10; Joshua 11; 1 Corinthians 6
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Scripture
Joshua 10
12 On the day the LORD gave the Amorites over to Israel, Joshua said to the LORD in the presence of Israel:
"O sun, stand still over Gibeon,
O moon, over the Valley of Aijalon."
13 So the sun stood still,
and the moon stopped,
till the nation avenged itself on its enemies,
as it is written in the Book of Jashar.
The sun stopped in the middle of the sky and delayed going down about a full day. 14 There has never been a day like it before or since, a day when the LORD listened to a man. Surely the LORD was fighting for Israel!
Observation
I believe that it was Elijah that prayed that it wouldn’t rain for 3 years and God answered his prayer, but how about a prayer for the sun and moon to stand still! What a huge prayer! Can you imagine what the enemy thought as the day kept going and going and going! I am sure that they began praying to their gods for darkness to come so they could hide, but our God answered Joshua’s prayer. The Lord was fighting for Israel and He gave them all the daylight that they needed to defeat the enemy.
Application
Are we praying any sun and moon stopping prayers today? What is something big that you are praying for?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, give me the faith to pray like Joshua. Help me to take everything to you in prayer. In chapter 9 of Joshua the Israelites were tricked by a small nation because they did not go to you in prayer and ask you what to do. Help me have the heart to take everything to you in prayer!
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Joshua 9; Joshua 10; Joshua 11; 1 Corinthians 6
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Scripture
Joshua 10
12 On the day the LORD gave the Amorites over to Israel, Joshua said to the LORD in the presence of Israel:
"O sun, stand still over Gibeon,
O moon, over the Valley of Aijalon."
13 So the sun stood still,
and the moon stopped,
till the nation avenged itself on its enemies,
as it is written in the Book of Jashar.
The sun stopped in the middle of the sky and delayed going down about a full day. 14 There has never been a day like it before or since, a day when the LORD listened to a man. Surely the LORD was fighting for Israel!
Observation
I believe that it was Elijah that prayed that it wouldn’t rain for 3 years and God answered his prayer, but how about a prayer for the sun and moon to stand still! What a huge prayer! Can you imagine what the enemy thought as the day kept going and going and going! I am sure that they began praying to their gods for darkness to come so they could hide, but our God answered Joshua’s prayer. The Lord was fighting for Israel and He gave them all the daylight that they needed to defeat the enemy.
Application
Are we praying any sun and moon stopping prayers today? What is something big that you are praying for?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, give me the faith to pray like Joshua. Help me to take everything to you in prayer. In chapter 9 of Joshua the Israelites were tricked by a small nation because they did not go to you in prayer and ask you what to do. Help me have the heart to take everything to you in prayer!
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Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Sin In The Camp!
Joshua 7; Joshua 8; Psalm 69; 1 Corinthians 5
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Scripture
Joshua 7
19 Then Joshua said to Achan, "My son, give glory to the LORD, the God of Israel, and give him the praise. Tell me what you have done; do not hide it from me."
20 Achan replied, "It is true! I have sinned against the LORD, the God of Israel. This is what I have done: 21 When I saw in the plunder a beautiful robe from Babylonia, two hundred shekels of silver and a wedge of gold weighing fifty shekels,] I coveted them and took them. They are hidden in the ground inside my tent, with the silver underneath."
22 So Joshua sent messengers, and they ran to the tent, and there it was, hidden in his tent, with the silver underneath. 23 They took the things from the tent, brought them to Joshua and all the Israelites and spread them out before the LORD.
24 Then Joshua, together with all Israel, took Achan son of Zerah, the silver, the robe, the gold wedge, his sons and daughters, his cattle, donkeys and sheep, his tent and all that he had, to the Valley of Achor. 25 Joshua said, "Why have you brought this trouble on us? The LORD will bring trouble on you today."
Then all Israel stoned him, and after they had stoned the rest, they burned them. 26 Over Achan they heaped up a large pile of rocks, which remains to this day. Then the LORD turned from his fierce anger. Therefore that place has been called the Valley of Achor ever since.
Observation
Sin does have consequences!
Secret sins though we think no one knows, He knows. There is no such thing as a secret sin! It is amazing the damage that our sin has on the people around us. Think about Achan and his buried treasure. He took things that were supposed to be given to the Lord and he kept them. The scripture said that he looked at them and coveted them; he took them home and buried them. Hmmm…I wonder how he was feeling with his treasure safely buried inside his tent! His sin cost the lives of his entire family, plus the deaths of all the soldiers that had died in the battle against the people of Ai.
Application
Nothing is hidden from God; we may hide things from our spouses and maybe even our families but be sure that our sin will be found out! It is best to confess our sins to the Lord right now and not let them remain unconfessed. I believe that Achan could have gotten right with the Lord before God brought judgment, but he chose not to do so. How foolish!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, examine my heart today and if there is anything that is not right I want you to reveal it to me so I can have a clean heart. Show me anything in my life that is not pleasing to you so I can change it. Thank you for your Holy Spirit that lives within me and He is constantly working in my life!
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Joshua 7; Joshua 8; Psalm 69; 1 Corinthians 5
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Scripture
Joshua 7
19 Then Joshua said to Achan, "My son, give glory to the LORD, the God of Israel, and give him the praise. Tell me what you have done; do not hide it from me."
20 Achan replied, "It is true! I have sinned against the LORD, the God of Israel. This is what I have done: 21 When I saw in the plunder a beautiful robe from Babylonia, two hundred shekels of silver and a wedge of gold weighing fifty shekels,] I coveted them and took them. They are hidden in the ground inside my tent, with the silver underneath."
22 So Joshua sent messengers, and they ran to the tent, and there it was, hidden in his tent, with the silver underneath. 23 They took the things from the tent, brought them to Joshua and all the Israelites and spread them out before the LORD.
24 Then Joshua, together with all Israel, took Achan son of Zerah, the silver, the robe, the gold wedge, his sons and daughters, his cattle, donkeys and sheep, his tent and all that he had, to the Valley of Achor. 25 Joshua said, "Why have you brought this trouble on us? The LORD will bring trouble on you today."
Then all Israel stoned him, and after they had stoned the rest, they burned them. 26 Over Achan they heaped up a large pile of rocks, which remains to this day. Then the LORD turned from his fierce anger. Therefore that place has been called the Valley of Achor ever since.
Observation
Sin does have consequences!
Secret sins though we think no one knows, He knows. There is no such thing as a secret sin! It is amazing the damage that our sin has on the people around us. Think about Achan and his buried treasure. He took things that were supposed to be given to the Lord and he kept them. The scripture said that he looked at them and coveted them; he took them home and buried them. Hmmm…I wonder how he was feeling with his treasure safely buried inside his tent! His sin cost the lives of his entire family, plus the deaths of all the soldiers that had died in the battle against the people of Ai.
Application
Nothing is hidden from God; we may hide things from our spouses and maybe even our families but be sure that our sin will be found out! It is best to confess our sins to the Lord right now and not let them remain unconfessed. I believe that Achan could have gotten right with the Lord before God brought judgment, but he chose not to do so. How foolish!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, examine my heart today and if there is anything that is not right I want you to reveal it to me so I can have a clean heart. Show me anything in my life that is not pleasing to you so I can change it. Thank you for your Holy Spirit that lives within me and He is constantly working in my life!
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Monday, March 19, 2007
The Lord will do Amazing Things Among You!
Joshua 3; Joshua 4; Joshua 5; Joshua 6; 1 Corinthians 4
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Scripture
Joshua 3:5-17
5 Joshua told the people, "Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the LORD will do amazing things among you."
6 Joshua said to the priests, "Take up the ark of the covenant and pass on ahead of the people." So they took it up and went ahead of them.
7 And the LORD said to Joshua, "Today I will begin to exalt you in the eyes of all Israel, so they may know that I am with you as I was with Moses. 8 Tell the priests who carry the ark of the covenant: 'When you reach the edge of the Jordan's waters, go and stand in the river.' "
9 Joshua said to the Israelites, "Come here and listen to the words of the LORD your God. 10 This is how you will know that the living God is among you and that he will certainly drive out before you the Canaanites, Hittites, Hivites, Perizzites, Girgashites, Amorites and Jebusites. 11 See, the ark of the covenant of the Lord of all the earth will go into the Jordan ahead of you. 12 Now then, choose twelve men from the tribes of Israel, one from each tribe. 13 And as soon as the priests who carry the ark of the LORD -the Lord of all the earth—set foot in the Jordan, its waters flowing downstream will be cut off and stand up in a heap."
14 So when the people broke camp to cross the Jordan, the priests carrying the ark of the covenant went ahead of them. 15 Now the Jordan is at flood stage all during harvest. Yet as soon as the priests who carried the ark reached the Jordan and their feet touched the water's edge, 16 the water from upstream stopped flowing. It piled up in a heap a great distance away, at a town called Adam in the vicinity of Zarethan, while the water flowing down to the Sea of the Arabah (the Salt Sea ) was completely cut off. So the people crossed over opposite Jericho. 17 The priests who carried the ark of the covenant of the LORD stood firm on dry ground in the middle of the Jordan, while all Israel passed by until the whole nation had completed the crossing on dry ground.
Observation
We serve an amazing God who wants to do amazing things in our lives. Yes, He can stop a river from flowing if He needs to, even a river at flood stage! What is your life flooded with today? God is the amazing God that cares! He is a God of Power, nothing is too hard for Him. Do you have some stuff blocking your way? Surrender your life to Him today and watch Him do amazing things in your life. He is not a God of idle words He is a God of amazing power!
Application
Pray! Consecrate yourself to the Lord today! And He will plant your feet on firm, dry ground in the midst of the flood around you.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, today I have some close friends that need to see and experience your amazing power. I pray for them and I ask you to intervene and help them. You are a God of power, amazing power and I thank you that you use that power for our good.
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Joshua 3; Joshua 4; Joshua 5; Joshua 6; 1 Corinthians 4
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Scripture
Joshua 3:5-17
5 Joshua told the people, "Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the LORD will do amazing things among you."
6 Joshua said to the priests, "Take up the ark of the covenant and pass on ahead of the people." So they took it up and went ahead of them.
7 And the LORD said to Joshua, "Today I will begin to exalt you in the eyes of all Israel, so they may know that I am with you as I was with Moses. 8 Tell the priests who carry the ark of the covenant: 'When you reach the edge of the Jordan's waters, go and stand in the river.' "
9 Joshua said to the Israelites, "Come here and listen to the words of the LORD your God. 10 This is how you will know that the living God is among you and that he will certainly drive out before you the Canaanites, Hittites, Hivites, Perizzites, Girgashites, Amorites and Jebusites. 11 See, the ark of the covenant of the Lord of all the earth will go into the Jordan ahead of you. 12 Now then, choose twelve men from the tribes of Israel, one from each tribe. 13 And as soon as the priests who carry the ark of the LORD -the Lord of all the earth—set foot in the Jordan, its waters flowing downstream will be cut off and stand up in a heap."
14 So when the people broke camp to cross the Jordan, the priests carrying the ark of the covenant went ahead of them. 15 Now the Jordan is at flood stage all during harvest. Yet as soon as the priests who carried the ark reached the Jordan and their feet touched the water's edge, 16 the water from upstream stopped flowing. It piled up in a heap a great distance away, at a town called Adam in the vicinity of Zarethan, while the water flowing down to the Sea of the Arabah (the Salt Sea ) was completely cut off. So the people crossed over opposite Jericho. 17 The priests who carried the ark of the covenant of the LORD stood firm on dry ground in the middle of the Jordan, while all Israel passed by until the whole nation had completed the crossing on dry ground.
Observation
We serve an amazing God who wants to do amazing things in our lives. Yes, He can stop a river from flowing if He needs to, even a river at flood stage! What is your life flooded with today? God is the amazing God that cares! He is a God of Power, nothing is too hard for Him. Do you have some stuff blocking your way? Surrender your life to Him today and watch Him do amazing things in your life. He is not a God of idle words He is a God of amazing power!
Application
Pray! Consecrate yourself to the Lord today! And He will plant your feet on firm, dry ground in the midst of the flood around you.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, today I have some close friends that need to see and experience your amazing power. I pray for them and I ask you to intervene and help them. You are a God of power, amazing power and I thank you that you use that power for our good.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Friday, March 16, 2007
What Were You Like Before You Were Saved?
Deuteronomy 30; Deuteronomy 31; Psalm 40; 1 Corinthians 1
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Scripture
1 Corinthians 1:26-31
“Brothers, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. 27 But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. 28 He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, 29 so that no one may boast before him. 30 It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. 31 Therefore, as it is written: "Let him who boasts boast in the Lord."
Observation
Do you remember what you were like before you met Christ? Paul is saying in this passage that God didn’t call influential people, he hasn’t called royalty, he hasn’t even called the smartest people, in fact, and verse 27 says that he has chosen the weak.
He has done that so we don’t try to think that it was because of our greatness that God chose us. No, He has chosen us because He wanted to do so and it had nothing to do with how intelligent, successful or good looking we were. If we are going to boast, we are going to have to boast in the Lord!
Application
God will save the people that I least expect and some that I think would be saved will not soften their hearts to the Gospel. My job is to share the Gospel with everyone.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for saving me. I pray for those in my family that they come to a personal relationship with you. Soften their hearts and help them understand the Good News.
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Deuteronomy 30; Deuteronomy 31; Psalm 40; 1 Corinthians 1
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
1 Corinthians 1:26-31
“Brothers, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. 27 But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. 28 He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, 29 so that no one may boast before him. 30 It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. 31 Therefore, as it is written: "Let him who boasts boast in the Lord."
Observation
Do you remember what you were like before you met Christ? Paul is saying in this passage that God didn’t call influential people, he hasn’t called royalty, he hasn’t even called the smartest people, in fact, and verse 27 says that he has chosen the weak.
He has done that so we don’t try to think that it was because of our greatness that God chose us. No, He has chosen us because He wanted to do so and it had nothing to do with how intelligent, successful or good looking we were. If we are going to boast, we are going to have to boast in the Lord!
Application
God will save the people that I least expect and some that I think would be saved will not soften their hearts to the Gospel. My job is to share the Gospel with everyone.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for saving me. I pray for those in my family that they come to a personal relationship with you. Soften their hearts and help them understand the Good News.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Law of The Harvest!
Deuteronomy 28; Deuteronomy 29; Galatians 6
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Scripture
Galatians 6:7 “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.”
Observation
When you plant a seed of corn, or some other crop you can count on several things happening. If you plant corn then you will reap corn not beans and if you plant a seed of corn you can count on (if it sprouts) receiving more than you plant. The one seed will produce a stalk of corn that will have several ears of corn each consisting of several hundred kernels. So you will reap in kind and you will reap more. There are other laws of the harvest but those two are enough for today. Here is the spiritual example: if you sow love you will reap more love than you sowed. If you sow hate or meanness you will reap back hate and meanness only you will reap a lot more than you sowed. Get the picture!
Application
Today let’s sow the right kind of things so we can have the right kind of harvest!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me apply this principle today with everyone I come in contact with. I want to reap the right kind of harvest.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Deuteronomy 28; Deuteronomy 29; Galatians 6
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Scripture
Galatians 6:7 “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.”
Observation
When you plant a seed of corn, or some other crop you can count on several things happening. If you plant corn then you will reap corn not beans and if you plant a seed of corn you can count on (if it sprouts) receiving more than you plant. The one seed will produce a stalk of corn that will have several ears of corn each consisting of several hundred kernels. So you will reap in kind and you will reap more. There are other laws of the harvest but those two are enough for today. Here is the spiritual example: if you sow love you will reap more love than you sowed. If you sow hate or meanness you will reap back hate and meanness only you will reap a lot more than you sowed. Get the picture!
Application
Today let’s sow the right kind of things so we can have the right kind of harvest!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me apply this principle today with everyone I come in contact with. I want to reap the right kind of harvest.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Crucified With Christ!
Deuteronomy 16; Deuteronomy 17; Deuteronomy 18; Psalm 38; Galatians 2
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Scripture
Galatians 2:20 “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”
Observation
Have you ever thought much about this verse? Paul is saying that just like Christ was crucified on the cross that his life was also nailed to the cross. He was dead. I believe that he was talking about being a living sacrifice. It is not about me; it is all about Him.
Application
Where do I need to die to self?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me be like Paul. Help me to die to self and live for Christ!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Deuteronomy 16; Deuteronomy 17; Deuteronomy 18; Psalm 38; Galatians 2
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Scripture
Galatians 2:20 “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”
Observation
Have you ever thought much about this verse? Paul is saying that just like Christ was crucified on the cross that his life was also nailed to the cross. He was dead. I believe that he was talking about being a living sacrifice. It is not about me; it is all about Him.
Application
Where do I need to die to self?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me be like Paul. Help me to die to self and live for Christ!
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Tuesday, March 13, 2007
You are Adopted; You are Adopted!
Deuteronomy 22; Deuteronomy 23; Deuteronomy 24; Galatians 4
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Scripture
Galatians 4:4-7 “But when the time arrived that was set by God the Father, God sent his Son, born among us of a woman, born under the conditions of the law so that he might redeem those of us who have been kidnapped by the law. Thus we have been set free to experience our rightful heritage. You can tell for sure that you are now fully adopted as his own children because God sent the Spirit of his Son into our lives crying out, "Papa! Father!" Doesn't that privilege of intimate conversation with God make it plain that you are not a slave, but a child? And if you are a child, you're also an heir, with complete access to the inheritance.”
Observation
When we were little my brother had very blond hair and my two sisters and myself were all brown haired. He really did look adopted. To pick at him we would chant, “you are adopted, you are adopted”! He would get furious and we would probably eventually make him cry. The idea we were conveying as we made fun of him was that he was not like us, and that he wasn’t really part of the family like we were. Now the truth of adoption is entirely different than that. Adoption gives the child or person full rights just like someone that is born into a family naturally. God loves us so much that He adopts us into his family and gives us full inheritance! In fact, unless you have been adopted into God’s family you are not going to Heaven! Heaven is only for us adopted kids! Not all the people on this earth are God’s children only those that have been adopted by Him. Have you been adopted yet?
Application
Have you been adopted? Are you enjoying all the spiritual blessings that God has provided us?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for allowing me to be one of your children. I don’t deserve it. Help me be all that you want me to be today. Thank you for giving me so much!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Deuteronomy 22; Deuteronomy 23; Deuteronomy 24; Galatians 4
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Scripture
Galatians 4:4-7 “But when the time arrived that was set by God the Father, God sent his Son, born among us of a woman, born under the conditions of the law so that he might redeem those of us who have been kidnapped by the law. Thus we have been set free to experience our rightful heritage. You can tell for sure that you are now fully adopted as his own children because God sent the Spirit of his Son into our lives crying out, "Papa! Father!" Doesn't that privilege of intimate conversation with God make it plain that you are not a slave, but a child? And if you are a child, you're also an heir, with complete access to the inheritance.”
Observation
When we were little my brother had very blond hair and my two sisters and myself were all brown haired. He really did look adopted. To pick at him we would chant, “you are adopted, you are adopted”! He would get furious and we would probably eventually make him cry. The idea we were conveying as we made fun of him was that he was not like us, and that he wasn’t really part of the family like we were. Now the truth of adoption is entirely different than that. Adoption gives the child or person full rights just like someone that is born into a family naturally. God loves us so much that He adopts us into his family and gives us full inheritance! In fact, unless you have been adopted into God’s family you are not going to Heaven! Heaven is only for us adopted kids! Not all the people on this earth are God’s children only those that have been adopted by Him. Have you been adopted yet?
Application
Have you been adopted? Are you enjoying all the spiritual blessings that God has provided us?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for allowing me to be one of your children. I don’t deserve it. Help me be all that you want me to be today. Thank you for giving me so much!
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Monday, March 12, 2007
Severe Cure for a Rebellious Child!
Deuteronomy 19; Deuteronomy 20; Deuteronomy 21; Galatians 3
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Scripture
A Rebellious Son
Deuteronomy 21:18 If a man has a stubborn and rebellious son who does not obey his father and mother and will not listen to them when they discipline him, 19 his father and mother shall take hold of him and bring him to the elders at the gate of his town. 20 They shall say to the elders, "This son of ours is stubborn and rebellious. He will not obey us. He is a profligate and a drunkard." 21 Then all the men of his town shall stone him to death. You must purge the evil from among you. All Israel will hear of it and be afraid.
Observation
I wonder how many parents actually took their rebellious child out and had the elders stone them to death. I can hear parents now using that threat and I believe that any child would have straightened up after just one warning. Straighten up or we are going to the elders. If you had a rock in your hands as you warned them I believe they would have got the message. It is so different today isn’t it.
Application
All of us tend to be rebellious against God and God warns us that there are severe consequences to our rebellion. Repent! Turn to God!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I pray for those that are dealing with rebellious children. It breaks my heart that those very close to me are not walking with you. I pray that I will live to see them in a right relationship with you. They will never know your joy unless they repent and put you first!
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Deuteronomy 19; Deuteronomy 20; Deuteronomy 21; Galatians 3
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Scripture
A Rebellious Son
Deuteronomy 21:18 If a man has a stubborn and rebellious son who does not obey his father and mother and will not listen to them when they discipline him, 19 his father and mother shall take hold of him and bring him to the elders at the gate of his town. 20 They shall say to the elders, "This son of ours is stubborn and rebellious. He will not obey us. He is a profligate and a drunkard." 21 Then all the men of his town shall stone him to death. You must purge the evil from among you. All Israel will hear of it and be afraid.
Observation
I wonder how many parents actually took their rebellious child out and had the elders stone them to death. I can hear parents now using that threat and I believe that any child would have straightened up after just one warning. Straighten up or we are going to the elders. If you had a rock in your hands as you warned them I believe they would have got the message. It is so different today isn’t it.
Application
All of us tend to be rebellious against God and God warns us that there are severe consequences to our rebellion. Repent! Turn to God!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I pray for those that are dealing with rebellious children. It breaks my heart that those very close to me are not walking with you. I pray that I will live to see them in a right relationship with you. They will never know your joy unless they repent and put you first!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Thursday, March 08, 2007
The Danger of Forgetfulness!
Deuteronomy 7; Deuteronomy 8; Deuteronomy 9; Mark 15
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Scripture
Do Not Forget the LORD
Deuteronomy 8: 1-5
1 Be careful to follow every command I am giving you today, so that you may live and increase and may enter and possess the land that the LORD promised on oath to your forefathers. 2 Remember how the LORD your God led you all the way in the desert these forty years, to humble you and to test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep his commands. 3 He humbled you, causing you to hunger and then feeding you with manna, which neither you nor your fathers had known, to teach you that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the LORD. 4 Your clothes did not wear out and your feet did not swell during these forty years. 5 Know then in your heart that as a man disciplines his son, so the LORD your God disciplines you.
Observation
Moses was reminding the children of Israel how God had protected them, and how God had provided for them for the past forty years. He humbled them by providing their food everyday. He made their clothes and sandals to last for forty years. He reminded them of their rebellious nature and warned them not to forget all the things that the Lord had done for them and that He would continue to do for them if they would just remember to keep Him their top priority.
Application
God wants to bless us today, but we need to be obedient. The moment we move into disobedience that is the very moment when we no longer receive the benefits of our relationship with him. If want His blessings then we have to keep Him number one in our lives.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to think more about you and more about your kingdom than anything else. Help me walk with you in obedience. I want to hear your voice and I want you to guide me in the direction that you want me to go. Help me not be like the children of Israel who could not learn the lesson of obedience.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Deuteronomy 7; Deuteronomy 8; Deuteronomy 9; Mark 15
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Scripture
Do Not Forget the LORD
Deuteronomy 8: 1-5
1 Be careful to follow every command I am giving you today, so that you may live and increase and may enter and possess the land that the LORD promised on oath to your forefathers. 2 Remember how the LORD your God led you all the way in the desert these forty years, to humble you and to test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep his commands. 3 He humbled you, causing you to hunger and then feeding you with manna, which neither you nor your fathers had known, to teach you that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the LORD. 4 Your clothes did not wear out and your feet did not swell during these forty years. 5 Know then in your heart that as a man disciplines his son, so the LORD your God disciplines you.
Observation
Moses was reminding the children of Israel how God had protected them, and how God had provided for them for the past forty years. He humbled them by providing their food everyday. He made their clothes and sandals to last for forty years. He reminded them of their rebellious nature and warned them not to forget all the things that the Lord had done for them and that He would continue to do for them if they would just remember to keep Him their top priority.
Application
God wants to bless us today, but we need to be obedient. The moment we move into disobedience that is the very moment when we no longer receive the benefits of our relationship with him. If want His blessings then we have to keep Him number one in our lives.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to think more about you and more about your kingdom than anything else. Help me walk with you in obedience. I want to hear your voice and I want you to guide me in the direction that you want me to go. Help me not be like the children of Israel who could not learn the lesson of obedience.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
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