The Bridge Of Life
John 5; John 6
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Scripture
John 5
24 "I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life.
Observation
Out of all the witnessing tools that I have ever used from CWT, EE, F.A.I.T.H. etc I still prefer the Bridge of Life presentation the best. Maybe it is because the bridge was what someone shared with me when I first started going to church as a 19 year old, I don’t know. What method do you use? I have also used the Roman Road presentation. No matter what method you use in sharing Christ this is a verse you might want to include.
Application
I will carry the Bridge of life tract with me this week and be ready to share it with someone that God brings into my path.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, your Word says that you must draw people to yourself and that unless you draw them then they will not be saved. I pray that you bring people into my life that you are drawing to salvation. Open my eyes so that I don’t miss them. Thank you for this time of the year when people open their hearts more to spiritual things. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Open Your Eyes and Look At The Fields
John 2; John 3; John 4
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
John 4
35 Do you not say, 'Four months more and then the harvest'? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest.
Observation
In chapter 3 Jesus witnesses to Nicodemus and tells him that unless you are born again you will not enter into the Kingdom of Heaven. A person is born again not by being good or being religious, a person is born again when they encounter Jesus Christ and they put their faith and trust in Him. They must repent, (turn from sin and self and turn to God) and surrender their life to Christ. Then in chapter 4 Jesus takes time to go through Samaria to talk to the woman at the well. She remains nameless to us, but once she becomes a believer she runs back to the city and brings many to place their faith in Jesus. Then to his astonished disciples he makes the quote, “Do you not say, 'Four months more and then the harvest'? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest.”
Can you imagine the shock on the disciples’ faces when they realized what Jesus was saying? Here we find Jesus surrounded by people that his disciples hated and Jesus told them to open their eyes and look at the harvest. I wonder if they understood what he was talking about. I doubt it because Peter had still not learned this lesson when God sent him to the house of Cornelius in Acts 10. He still thought that anyone but a Jew was unclean.
We want to witness to people that are like us, but Christ wants us to witness to everyone no matter what they look like or smell like or sound like. The harvest is ripe.
Application
My last witnessing experience happened last week on an airplane coming back from Denver. The lady in the seat next to me came over from Vietnam when she was 17 years old. She is now in her 40’s. She went to a Catholic school when she was a child, but she told me that she was still a Buddhist. She was open to my sharing Christ with her and she told me that she would go and visit Calvary (Baptist) Church in Clearwater. Her name is Ching (not sure of the spelling). I gave her a Gospel of John and Steps to Peace with God and she promised to read them. It was a “woman at the well” kind of experience. God placed her on that airplane in the row where I was sitting because the harvest is ripe. I will open my eyes and look today because the harvest is ripe.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, open my eyes so that I can see the people that you want me to witness to. Bring people across my path that need to hear about you and give me the boldness and give me a love for them so that I can share with them about you. You are wonderful. You are so worthy of Praise. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
John 2; John 3; John 4
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
John 4
35 Do you not say, 'Four months more and then the harvest'? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest.
Observation
In chapter 3 Jesus witnesses to Nicodemus and tells him that unless you are born again you will not enter into the Kingdom of Heaven. A person is born again not by being good or being religious, a person is born again when they encounter Jesus Christ and they put their faith and trust in Him. They must repent, (turn from sin and self and turn to God) and surrender their life to Christ. Then in chapter 4 Jesus takes time to go through Samaria to talk to the woman at the well. She remains nameless to us, but once she becomes a believer she runs back to the city and brings many to place their faith in Jesus. Then to his astonished disciples he makes the quote, “Do you not say, 'Four months more and then the harvest'? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest.”
Can you imagine the shock on the disciples’ faces when they realized what Jesus was saying? Here we find Jesus surrounded by people that his disciples hated and Jesus told them to open their eyes and look at the harvest. I wonder if they understood what he was talking about. I doubt it because Peter had still not learned this lesson when God sent him to the house of Cornelius in Acts 10. He still thought that anyone but a Jew was unclean.
We want to witness to people that are like us, but Christ wants us to witness to everyone no matter what they look like or smell like or sound like. The harvest is ripe.
Application
My last witnessing experience happened last week on an airplane coming back from Denver. The lady in the seat next to me came over from Vietnam when she was 17 years old. She is now in her 40’s. She went to a Catholic school when she was a child, but she told me that she was still a Buddhist. She was open to my sharing Christ with her and she told me that she would go and visit Calvary (Baptist) Church in Clearwater. Her name is Ching (not sure of the spelling). I gave her a Gospel of John and Steps to Peace with God and she promised to read them. It was a “woman at the well” kind of experience. God placed her on that airplane in the row where I was sitting because the harvest is ripe. I will open my eyes and look today because the harvest is ripe.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, open my eyes so that I can see the people that you want me to witness to. Bring people across my path that need to hear about you and give me the boldness and give me a love for them so that I can share with them about you. You are wonderful. You are so worthy of Praise. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Monday, December 17, 2007
Follow Me
2 Peter 1; 2 Peter 2; 2 Peter 3; John 1
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
John 1
43 The next day Jesus decided to leave for Galilee. Finding Philip, he said to him, "Follow me."
44 Philip, like Andrew and Peter, was from the town of Bethsaida. 45 Philip found Nathanael and told him, "We have found the one Moses wrote about in the Law, and about whom the prophets also wrote—Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph."
46 "Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?" Nathanael asked.
"Come and see," said Philip.
47 When Jesus saw Nathanael approaching, he said of him, "Here is a true Israelite, in whom there is nothing false."
48 "How do you know me?" Nathanael asked.
Jesus answered, "I saw you while you were still under the fig tree before Philip called you."
49 Then Nathanael declared, "Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel."
50 Jesus said, "You believe because I told you I saw you under the fig tree. You shall see greater things than that." 51 He then added, "I tell you the truth, you shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man."
Observation
I was 19 years old when I responded to Jesus call to follow Him. How old were you? Or maybe you haven’t responded yet to His call to follow Him? As I look back over the past 37+ years of knowing and following Christ I have never for one moment regretted saying, “yes” to Him.
I remember my life and where it was heading before I said, “yes” to Him. I was on the road to destruction. I don’t understand why I have the privilege of knowing Him and so many do not. I think that this will always baffle me. I don’t deserve it, but I am very glad that Jesus extended the call to me to follow him. Is He speaking to you right now about your relationship to Him? Let me encourage you to say “yes” to him right now and start following Him today.
Application
Jesus said, “Follow me and I will make you fishers of men.” I plan to be ready to fish today.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for calling me, for saving me, and for allowing me to be used for your service. I don’t deserve it, but I am so glad that you have allowed me the privilege of knowing you. Thank you for my salvation today. I pray that salvation will come to many people’s lives through my obedience to you. The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. (John 1:12) Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
2 Peter 1; 2 Peter 2; 2 Peter 3; John 1
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
John 1
43 The next day Jesus decided to leave for Galilee. Finding Philip, he said to him, "Follow me."
44 Philip, like Andrew and Peter, was from the town of Bethsaida. 45 Philip found Nathanael and told him, "We have found the one Moses wrote about in the Law, and about whom the prophets also wrote—Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph."
46 "Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?" Nathanael asked.
"Come and see," said Philip.
47 When Jesus saw Nathanael approaching, he said of him, "Here is a true Israelite, in whom there is nothing false."
48 "How do you know me?" Nathanael asked.
Jesus answered, "I saw you while you were still under the fig tree before Philip called you."
49 Then Nathanael declared, "Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel."
50 Jesus said, "You believe because I told you I saw you under the fig tree. You shall see greater things than that." 51 He then added, "I tell you the truth, you shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man."
Observation
I was 19 years old when I responded to Jesus call to follow Him. How old were you? Or maybe you haven’t responded yet to His call to follow Him? As I look back over the past 37+ years of knowing and following Christ I have never for one moment regretted saying, “yes” to Him.
I remember my life and where it was heading before I said, “yes” to Him. I was on the road to destruction. I don’t understand why I have the privilege of knowing Him and so many do not. I think that this will always baffle me. I don’t deserve it, but I am very glad that Jesus extended the call to me to follow him. Is He speaking to you right now about your relationship to Him? Let me encourage you to say “yes” to him right now and start following Him today.
Application
Jesus said, “Follow me and I will make you fishers of men.” I plan to be ready to fish today.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for calling me, for saving me, and for allowing me to be used for your service. I don’t deserve it, but I am so glad that you have allowed me the privilege of knowing you. Thank you for my salvation today. I pray that salvation will come to many people’s lives through my obedience to you. The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. (John 1:12) Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Sunday, December 16, 2007
Before You Take That Pill
1 Peter 1; 1 Peter 2; 1 Peter 3; 1 Peter 4; 1 Peter 5
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
1 Peter 5
7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
Observation
What pills will you take today? Are any of those pills to help with stress and/or anxiety? Why not give all of those anxious thoughts to Jesus and let Him give you His peace. I think that the key word in this verse is the small but powerful little word “all”. What are you anxious about today? Why not let Jesus handle “all” your problems because He cares for you. He wants me to come to Him with every anxious thought because He loves me and cares about me.
Application
Every time I have an anxious thought today I am going to quote this verse and turn that anxious thought over to Jesus.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, you said that in this world we would have trouble but to be of good cheer because you have overcome this world. Your Word is full of promises telling me that you are going to take care of me and that I don’t have to worry. Help me not to worry today. Help me have the faith to trust you with every one of my concerns. Increase my faith today and give me your peace. I pray that your peace will also be with my family today. May you strengthen them and help them to depend on you. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
1 Peter 1; 1 Peter 2; 1 Peter 3; 1 Peter 4; 1 Peter 5
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
1 Peter 5
7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
Observation
What pills will you take today? Are any of those pills to help with stress and/or anxiety? Why not give all of those anxious thoughts to Jesus and let Him give you His peace. I think that the key word in this verse is the small but powerful little word “all”. What are you anxious about today? Why not let Jesus handle “all” your problems because He cares for you. He wants me to come to Him with every anxious thought because He loves me and cares about me.
Application
Every time I have an anxious thought today I am going to quote this verse and turn that anxious thought over to Jesus.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, you said that in this world we would have trouble but to be of good cheer because you have overcome this world. Your Word is full of promises telling me that you are going to take care of me and that I don’t have to worry. Help me not to worry today. Help me have the faith to trust you with every one of my concerns. Increase my faith today and give me your peace. I pray that your peace will also be with my family today. May you strengthen them and help them to depend on you. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Saturday, December 15, 2007
Does He Hear Us?
James 1; James 2; James 3; James 4; James 5
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
The Prayer of Faith
James 5
13 Is any one of you in trouble? He should pray. Is anyone happy? Let him sing songs of praise. 14 Is any one of you sick? He should call the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord. 15 And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up. If he has sinned, he will be forgiven. 16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.
17 Elijah was a man just like us. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. 18 Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops. 19 My brothers, if one of you should wander from the truth and someone should bring him back, 20 remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of his way will save him from death and cover over a multitude of sins.
Observation
James 4:8 “Come near to God and he will come near to you.” If you don’t feel close to God guess who moved. James says that we need to “come near to God and he will come near to you”. There are two ways to stay close to God: one is to read his word everyday; and the second thing to do is to talk to him everyday. Someone has said that reading God’s word will keep you from sin and that sin will keep you from reading His word. When we are close to God we can call on him to heal those that are sick around us and he will hear us. I especially like the last part of verse 16 that says, “The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.”
Application
I plan to apply these verses in my life today: James 4:7 “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. 8 come near to God and he will come near to you.”
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you that I can come near to you this morning and you hear me. Lord show me any sin in my life that may keep me from being close to you. I submit my life to you today. I pray that my prayers to you could be like those of the man described in James 5:16 “powerful and effective”. I pray for my family today. I pray that they draw close to you and I pray that their prayers would be powerful and effective too. You are worthy to be praised. Be glorified today and I pray that you would show yourself powerful in the life of Jonathan today. You are the Great Physician. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
James 1; James 2; James 3; James 4; James 5
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
The Prayer of Faith
James 5
13 Is any one of you in trouble? He should pray. Is anyone happy? Let him sing songs of praise. 14 Is any one of you sick? He should call the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord. 15 And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up. If he has sinned, he will be forgiven. 16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.
17 Elijah was a man just like us. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. 18 Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops. 19 My brothers, if one of you should wander from the truth and someone should bring him back, 20 remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of his way will save him from death and cover over a multitude of sins.
Observation
James 4:8 “Come near to God and he will come near to you.” If you don’t feel close to God guess who moved. James says that we need to “come near to God and he will come near to you”. There are two ways to stay close to God: one is to read his word everyday; and the second thing to do is to talk to him everyday. Someone has said that reading God’s word will keep you from sin and that sin will keep you from reading His word. When we are close to God we can call on him to heal those that are sick around us and he will hear us. I especially like the last part of verse 16 that says, “The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.”
Application
I plan to apply these verses in my life today: James 4:7 “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. 8 come near to God and he will come near to you.”
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you that I can come near to you this morning and you hear me. Lord show me any sin in my life that may keep me from being close to you. I submit my life to you today. I pray that my prayers to you could be like those of the man described in James 5:16 “powerful and effective”. I pray for my family today. I pray that they draw close to you and I pray that their prayers would be powerful and effective too. You are worthy to be praised. Be glorified today and I pray that you would show yourself powerful in the life of Jonathan today. You are the Great Physician. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Friday, December 14, 2007
Fix Our Eyes On Jesus
Hebrews 12; Hebrews 13; Jude 1
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Hebrews 12
1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. 2 Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.
Jude 1:24 To him who is able to keep you from falling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy— 25 to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen.
Observation
I don’t know about you but it is so easy for me to fix my eyes on problems rather than on Jesus. It is so easy to fix our eyes on our circumstances or on people and not on Jesus. We are to walk by faith and not by sight. Faith is when we keep our eyes on Jesus, walking by sight is when we have our gaze/focus on our circumstances. Our circumstances will always look impossible, but with Jesus nothing absolutely nothing is impossible.
Application
Today I am going to fix my eyes on Jesus and not on my circumstances. How about you?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, now unto you that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that I ask or think, according to the power that works in me and to you who is able to keep me from falling and who will present me before your glorious presence without fault and you will do it with great joy, to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ my Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore. Amen (Ephesians 3:20; Jude 1:24-25)
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Hebrews 12; Hebrews 13; Jude 1
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Hebrews 12
1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. 2 Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.
Jude 1:24 To him who is able to keep you from falling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy— 25 to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen.
Observation
I don’t know about you but it is so easy for me to fix my eyes on problems rather than on Jesus. It is so easy to fix our eyes on our circumstances or on people and not on Jesus. We are to walk by faith and not by sight. Faith is when we keep our eyes on Jesus, walking by sight is when we have our gaze/focus on our circumstances. Our circumstances will always look impossible, but with Jesus nothing absolutely nothing is impossible.
Application
Today I am going to fix my eyes on Jesus and not on my circumstances. How about you?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, now unto you that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that I ask or think, according to the power that works in me and to you who is able to keep me from falling and who will present me before your glorious presence without fault and you will do it with great joy, to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ my Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore. Amen (Ephesians 3:20; Jude 1:24-25)
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Thursday, December 13, 2007
By Faith
Hebrews 9; Hebrews 10; Hebrews 11
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Hebrews 11
By Faith
1 Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.
Observation
Hebrews 11:6a “And without faith it is impossible to please God” God says that it is living by faith that pleases Him. Holding out for what we can’t see at the moment that is what faith is all about. The important stuff in my life all requires faith. I have faith and I know that God has prepared a place for me in Heaven. I can’t see it but I know that I have it. I know that He is going to take care of me and He is going to take care of Kathy no matter what happens in our lives. And I know that by faith. I know that He is going to heal Jonathan and I know it by faith.
Application
Tragedy and crisis remind us that our lives are lives of faith connected to the promises of our living and all powerful God.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I want to please you by being a person of faith. Your word says that we can please you only if we have faith and that it is impossible to please you without it. Father, increase my faith. Help me to see your hand at work in the lives of the people around me. I pray for Deanna that she will come to church and that she would place her trust and faith in you for her salvation. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Hebrews 9; Hebrews 10; Hebrews 11
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Hebrews 11
By Faith
1 Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.
Observation
Hebrews 11:6a “And without faith it is impossible to please God” God says that it is living by faith that pleases Him. Holding out for what we can’t see at the moment that is what faith is all about. The important stuff in my life all requires faith. I have faith and I know that God has prepared a place for me in Heaven. I can’t see it but I know that I have it. I know that He is going to take care of me and He is going to take care of Kathy no matter what happens in our lives. And I know that by faith. I know that He is going to heal Jonathan and I know it by faith.
Application
Tragedy and crisis remind us that our lives are lives of faith connected to the promises of our living and all powerful God.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I want to please you by being a person of faith. Your word says that we can please you only if we have faith and that it is impossible to please you without it. Father, increase my faith. Help me to see your hand at work in the lives of the people around me. I pray for Deanna that she will come to church and that she would place her trust and faith in you for her salvation. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
King’s Kids and What That Means
Hebrews 5; Hebrews 6; Hebrews 7; Hebrews 8
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Hebrews 8
1 The point of what we are saying is this: We do have such a high priest, who sat down at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven,
Observation
We are kids of the King of Kings, Lord of Lords and we have access to our Heavenly Father anytime day or night. His throne is a throne of Grace and He is a God of Mercy so we don’t have to fear when we go to Him with our needs. I haven’t quit thinking since yesterday’s Bible reading about God’s throne and how we have been invited to go to Him freely with each and every one of our needs. I read this morning in the book of Revelation about God’s throne in Heaven. We can’t even begin to imagine what it is going to be like when we get there.
Rev. 4:1 “After this I looked, and there before me was a door standing open in heaven. And the voice I had first heard speaking to me like a trumpet said, "Come up here, and I will show you what must take place after this." 2 At once I was in the Spirit, and there before me was a throne in heaven with someone sitting on it. 3 And the one who sat there had the appearance of jasper and carnelian. A rainbow, resembling an emerald, encircled the throne. 4 Surrounding the throne were twenty-four other thrones, and seated on them were twenty-four elders. They were dressed in white and had crowns of gold on their heads. 5 From the throne came flashes of lightning, rumblings and peals of thunder. Before the throne, seven lamps were blazing.”
Rev. 7:9 “After this I looked and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and in front of the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands.”
Application
Because I am a child of the King of Kings and Lord of Lords I am can boldly go to His throne of Grace and find help in my time of need.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for allowing me the privilege to come before your throne with my requests. I don’t have to fear you. One day I will be at your throne in Heaven with people from every nation and every tribe and we will be worshipping you together. I can’t imagine how neat that will be. Thank you for taking care of Jonathan and his family. I pray that you heal Jonathan and that through His life you would receive glory and honor. Protect his family from the evil one. You are able to do way more than we can even imagine or think. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Hebrews 5; Hebrews 6; Hebrews 7; Hebrews 8
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Hebrews 8
1 The point of what we are saying is this: We do have such a high priest, who sat down at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven,
Observation
We are kids of the King of Kings, Lord of Lords and we have access to our Heavenly Father anytime day or night. His throne is a throne of Grace and He is a God of Mercy so we don’t have to fear when we go to Him with our needs. I haven’t quit thinking since yesterday’s Bible reading about God’s throne and how we have been invited to go to Him freely with each and every one of our needs. I read this morning in the book of Revelation about God’s throne in Heaven. We can’t even begin to imagine what it is going to be like when we get there.
Rev. 4:1 “After this I looked, and there before me was a door standing open in heaven. And the voice I had first heard speaking to me like a trumpet said, "Come up here, and I will show you what must take place after this." 2 At once I was in the Spirit, and there before me was a throne in heaven with someone sitting on it. 3 And the one who sat there had the appearance of jasper and carnelian. A rainbow, resembling an emerald, encircled the throne. 4 Surrounding the throne were twenty-four other thrones, and seated on them were twenty-four elders. They were dressed in white and had crowns of gold on their heads. 5 From the throne came flashes of lightning, rumblings and peals of thunder. Before the throne, seven lamps were blazing.”
Rev. 7:9 “After this I looked and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and in front of the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands.”
Application
Because I am a child of the King of Kings and Lord of Lords I am can boldly go to His throne of Grace and find help in my time of need.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for allowing me the privilege to come before your throne with my requests. I don’t have to fear you. One day I will be at your throne in Heaven with people from every nation and every tribe and we will be worshipping you together. I can’t imagine how neat that will be. Thank you for taking care of Jonathan and his family. I pray that you heal Jonathan and that through His life you would receive glory and honor. Protect his family from the evil one. You are able to do way more than we can even imagine or think. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Approaching God in Our Time of Need
Philemon 1; Hebrews 1; Hebrews 2; Hebrews 3; Hebrews 4
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Hebrews 4
16 Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
Observation
These are some of the most difficult days that I can remember for my family. With my nephew Jonathan in a coma fighting for life and my sister and her children having to deal with this attack on their family. This verse encourages me this morning because I know that I have a Heavenly Father that understands what we are feeling and I can go to Him with confidence in this time of need. None of what has happened has taken Him by surprise I know that He was well aware of what was going to happen before it happened. So how do we respond to all of this, that is the crucial question?
Application
I choose to respond to this crisis by taking it to the throne of grace and I do so this morning with confidence.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, you are a God of Mercy and a God of Grace and we need both this morning. I come to your throne with confidence this morning because I know you and I know that you know me and that you want to help us in this time of need. God you are Sovereign and I know that Jonathan’s life is in your hands. I pray that you will intervene and heal this young man. Do it for your honor and for your glory and I promise to give you praise. Amen.
To check on updates for Jonathan's Richert just click here! Thanks for Praying!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Philemon 1; Hebrews 1; Hebrews 2; Hebrews 3; Hebrews 4
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Hebrews 4
16 Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
Observation
These are some of the most difficult days that I can remember for my family. With my nephew Jonathan in a coma fighting for life and my sister and her children having to deal with this attack on their family. This verse encourages me this morning because I know that I have a Heavenly Father that understands what we are feeling and I can go to Him with confidence in this time of need. None of what has happened has taken Him by surprise I know that He was well aware of what was going to happen before it happened. So how do we respond to all of this, that is the crucial question?
Application
I choose to respond to this crisis by taking it to the throne of grace and I do so this morning with confidence.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, you are a God of Mercy and a God of Grace and we need both this morning. I come to your throne with confidence this morning because I know you and I know that you know me and that you want to help us in this time of need. God you are Sovereign and I know that Jonathan’s life is in your hands. I pray that you will intervene and heal this young man. Do it for your honor and for your glory and I promise to give you praise. Amen.
To check on updates for Jonathan's Richert just click here! Thanks for Praying!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Thursday, December 06, 2007
Pray today for Jonathan Richert!
I am in the Tampa International Airport waiting to board a plane to Denver, Colorado to be with my sister Linda. Her son Jonathan was in a very bad car accident last night and received severe injury to the brain. He is in a coma and the outlook does not look good at the moment. Pray for a miracle. Jonathan is 15 years old. To keep up with Jonathan's condition just click here and you can read the web site set up for him.
Eddy
I am in the Tampa International Airport waiting to board a plane to Denver, Colorado to be with my sister Linda. Her son Jonathan was in a very bad car accident last night and received severe injury to the brain. He is in a coma and the outlook does not look good at the moment. Pray for a miracle. Jonathan is 15 years old. To keep up with Jonathan's condition just click here and you can read the web site set up for him.
Eddy
Wednesday, December 05, 2007
Importance of Scripture Memory
Ephesians 5; Ephesians 6; Psalm 119:1-80
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Psalm 119
9 How can a young man keep his way pure?
By living according to your word.
10 I seek you with all my heart;
do not let me stray from your commands.
11 I have hidden your word in my heart
that I might not sin against you.
Observation
I learned Psalm 119:9 &11 when I first became a Christian about 37 years ago and those verses have always been in my heart. God’s Word can keep us from sliding back into a life of sin. Someone very close to me has slide so far back in sin it doesn’t even seem that he ever knew the Savior at all.
I don’t understand it. He was a Sunday School teacher, a deacon in the church, but now he drinks and gets drunk almost every day and hangs out at sports bars. How did that happen? Why did that happen? Will he ever come back to the Lord and live a pure life? Did he not hide enough of God’s Word in his heart to keep him from this downward slide of destruction?
Application
I will continue to hide God’s Word in my heart so I don’t drift away to a life of sinfulness and destruction.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I pray that you bring every verse that I have ever memorized to my assistance to keep me from sinning. Use your Word in my life to discipline me and also to encourage me. Thank you for the power of you Word. Use it in my life to keep me from doing things that are wrong. Keep me pure Lord. Help me to obey your Word and continue to give me a hunger for your Word and a desire to follow you with my whole heart. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ephesians 5; Ephesians 6; Psalm 119:1-80
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Psalm 119
9 How can a young man keep his way pure?
By living according to your word.
10 I seek you with all my heart;
do not let me stray from your commands.
11 I have hidden your word in my heart
that I might not sin against you.
Observation
I learned Psalm 119:9 &11 when I first became a Christian about 37 years ago and those verses have always been in my heart. God’s Word can keep us from sliding back into a life of sin. Someone very close to me has slide so far back in sin it doesn’t even seem that he ever knew the Savior at all.
I don’t understand it. He was a Sunday School teacher, a deacon in the church, but now he drinks and gets drunk almost every day and hangs out at sports bars. How did that happen? Why did that happen? Will he ever come back to the Lord and live a pure life? Did he not hide enough of God’s Word in his heart to keep him from this downward slide of destruction?
Application
I will continue to hide God’s Word in my heart so I don’t drift away to a life of sinfulness and destruction.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I pray that you bring every verse that I have ever memorized to my assistance to keep me from sinning. Use your Word in my life to discipline me and also to encourage me. Thank you for the power of you Word. Use it in my life to keep me from doing things that are wrong. Keep me pure Lord. Help me to obey your Word and continue to give me a hunger for your Word and a desire to follow you with my whole heart. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Tuesday, December 04, 2007
We are Blessed
Ephesians 1; Ephesians 2; Ephesians 3; Ephesians 4
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Spiritual Blessings in Christ
Ephesians 1
3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. 4 For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love 5 he predestined us to be adopted as his sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will— 6 to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves. 7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace 8 that he lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding. 9 And he made known to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ, 10 to be put into effect when the times will have reached their fulfillment—to bring all things in heaven and on earth together under one head, even Christ.
Observation
Are you blessed? If you are a Christ Follower then you are very blessed; in fact you have been blessed with every spiritual blessing, that’s right every one of them. And so we don’t lack a thing, in Christ we have everything. He has even lavished on us all wisdom and understanding. In Christ we have the forgiveness of sins and we have been adopted into His Heavenly family as sons. As sons we get to enjoy everything that our Father has and He has it all. So, are you living like you are the child of the King today? Think about it, there is not one thing you lack today. We have it all. Did you notice these words in Ephesians 1:3-10, “blessed us”, “with every spiritual blessing”, “blameless in his sight”, “freely given to us”, “He lavished on us”, “His good pleasure”, “according with the riches of God’s grace”? We are blessed.
Application
I will live out this day meditating on the truth that God has blessed me with every spiritual blessing in Christ and I don’t lack one thing to accomplish His will today.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for adopting me as your son. Thank you for providing for me everything that I need. I am so blessed. Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. You are worthy to be praised. Thank you for what you are doing through our missionaries as they speak to our church during our conference. Continue to do a mighty work through them today. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Ephesians 1; Ephesians 2; Ephesians 3; Ephesians 4
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Spiritual Blessings in Christ
Ephesians 1
3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. 4 For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love 5 he predestined us to be adopted as his sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will— 6 to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves. 7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace 8 that he lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding. 9 And he made known to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ, 10 to be put into effect when the times will have reached their fulfillment—to bring all things in heaven and on earth together under one head, even Christ.
Observation
Are you blessed? If you are a Christ Follower then you are very blessed; in fact you have been blessed with every spiritual blessing, that’s right every one of them. And so we don’t lack a thing, in Christ we have everything. He has even lavished on us all wisdom and understanding. In Christ we have the forgiveness of sins and we have been adopted into His Heavenly family as sons. As sons we get to enjoy everything that our Father has and He has it all. So, are you living like you are the child of the King today? Think about it, there is not one thing you lack today. We have it all. Did you notice these words in Ephesians 1:3-10, “blessed us”, “with every spiritual blessing”, “blameless in his sight”, “freely given to us”, “He lavished on us”, “His good pleasure”, “according with the riches of God’s grace”? We are blessed.
Application
I will live out this day meditating on the truth that God has blessed me with every spiritual blessing in Christ and I don’t lack one thing to accomplish His will today.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for adopting me as your son. Thank you for providing for me everything that I need. I am so blessed. Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. You are worthy to be praised. Thank you for what you are doing through our missionaries as they speak to our church during our conference. Continue to do a mighty work through them today. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Monday, December 03, 2007
Warts and All
Romans 13; Romans 14; Romans 15; Romans 16
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Romans 15
5 May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, 6 so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
7 Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.
Observation
Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you. Let’s see, what was I like when I trusted Christ…a sinner…yet Christ accepted me just like I was. And He accepts me today not because I am a good person, but because He is a God of love. I am still a sinner, but one that has been forgiven and one that has been accepted.
Being rejected is a terrible feeling isn’t it? Have you ever been the last person to be picked when the neighborhood kids were getting up a game of baseball? Rejection is a terrible thing. But we do it all the time don’t we?
It seems that people reject us when our beliefs and theirs don’t line up exactly the same. They want you to believe their way and if you don’t then they don’t want to fellowship with you. How sad.
Application
Who do I need to accept warts and all that I have been rejecting? I am asking the Lord to reveal them to me so I can reach out to them.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, you accepted me just like I was and I didn’t deserve it. Help me to accept everyone especially those that are not easy to accept and that are not easy to love. Put people on my heart that I need to reach out to. Thank you for the missionaries that are speaking this week. Bless our Missions conference and may you place a desire in our people’s hearts to give sacrificially. Amen
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Romans 13; Romans 14; Romans 15; Romans 16
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Romans 15
5 May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, 6 so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
7 Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.
Observation
Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you. Let’s see, what was I like when I trusted Christ…a sinner…yet Christ accepted me just like I was. And He accepts me today not because I am a good person, but because He is a God of love. I am still a sinner, but one that has been forgiven and one that has been accepted.
Being rejected is a terrible feeling isn’t it? Have you ever been the last person to be picked when the neighborhood kids were getting up a game of baseball? Rejection is a terrible thing. But we do it all the time don’t we?
It seems that people reject us when our beliefs and theirs don’t line up exactly the same. They want you to believe their way and if you don’t then they don’t want to fellowship with you. How sad.
Application
Who do I need to accept warts and all that I have been rejecting? I am asking the Lord to reveal them to me so I can reach out to them.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, you accepted me just like I was and I didn’t deserve it. Help me to accept everyone especially those that are not easy to accept and that are not easy to love. Put people on my heart that I need to reach out to. Thank you for the missionaries that are speaking this week. Bless our Missions conference and may you place a desire in our people’s hearts to give sacrificially. Amen
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Saturday, December 01, 2007
More Than Conquerors
Romans 5; Romans 6; Romans 7; Romans 8
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
More Than Conquerors
Romans 8
28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. 29 For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. 30 And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.
31 What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32 He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? 33 Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. 34 Who is he that condemns? Christ Jesus, who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. 35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? 36 As it is written:
"For your sake we face death all day long;
we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered."37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39 neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Observation
I just finished reading the book; “Back to Jerusalem” if you haven’t yet read it I believe that it should be the very next book you read. Let me just say that those that the book is written about understand this passage way better than we do here in America. We don’t have a clue what it is like to suffer for our faith. But to those around the world that are dying for their faith in Christ this passage is especially for them. Will I die for my faith or will I just die of some sickness brought on by my easy lifestyle? I know that if I continue to live in the USA and unless something drastically changes in our country I will probably die of cancer or a heart problem or something like that but not from suffering because of my faith. We have all the freedom and resources in the world to share our faith right here but do we?
Application
I am going to make changes in my daily schedule to share my faith everyday.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I pray for your church in places where they are dying and where they are being persecuted for you. I pray that you will raise up thousands to take the Gospel to the world that still needs to hear about you. I pray for our World Missions Conference at our church that begins this weekend. Use these missionaries to call out more laborers to reach the harvest. Change me to make me more like the Christians that are sacrificing everything for the Gospel. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Romans 5; Romans 6; Romans 7; Romans 8
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
More Than Conquerors
Romans 8
28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. 29 For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. 30 And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.
31 What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32 He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? 33 Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. 34 Who is he that condemns? Christ Jesus, who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. 35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? 36 As it is written:
"For your sake we face death all day long;
we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered."37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39 neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Observation
I just finished reading the book; “Back to Jerusalem” if you haven’t yet read it I believe that it should be the very next book you read. Let me just say that those that the book is written about understand this passage way better than we do here in America. We don’t have a clue what it is like to suffer for our faith. But to those around the world that are dying for their faith in Christ this passage is especially for them. Will I die for my faith or will I just die of some sickness brought on by my easy lifestyle? I know that if I continue to live in the USA and unless something drastically changes in our country I will probably die of cancer or a heart problem or something like that but not from suffering because of my faith. We have all the freedom and resources in the world to share our faith right here but do we?
Application
I am going to make changes in my daily schedule to share my faith everyday.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I pray for your church in places where they are dying and where they are being persecuted for you. I pray that you will raise up thousands to take the Gospel to the world that still needs to hear about you. I pray for our World Missions Conference at our church that begins this weekend. Use these missionaries to call out more laborers to reach the harvest. Change me to make me more like the Christians that are sacrificing everything for the Gospel. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Friday, November 30, 2007
Against All Hope
Romans 1; Romans 2; Romans 3; Romans 4
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Romans 4
18 Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, "So shall your offspring be." 19 Without weakening in his faith, he faced the fact that his body was as good as dead—since he was about a hundred years old—and that Sarah's womb was also dead. 20 Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, 21 being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised. 22 This is why "it was credited to him as righteousness." 23 The words "it was credited to him" were written not for him alone, 24 but also for us, to whom God will credit righteousness—for us who believe in him who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead. 25 He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification.
Observation
The majority of people in this world still think that you can somehow get to Heaven by being good. They must have never read Romans 1-4! One word keeps coming up through this entire passage and that is the word “believe”. When we put our faith in what Jesus Christ did on the cross for us, when we believe in our hearts that He came, lived a sinless life, died on the cross to pay the penalty for my sins, and when we turn to God and turn away from sin and self then and only then do we have eternal life.
At that moment we are “declared righteous” meaning that it is a righteousness that has been given to us and it is not a righteousness that we have because of our goodness or our good works. Once we have been “declared righteous” we are born into the family of God. Salvation is completely a God thing. I really like and I really believe verse 21 “being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised.” God is a Promise Maker and He is a Promise Keeper. I also like verse 18 because when things are “against all hope” that is when and where God likes to work. Do you find yourself or someone else “against all hope” then you need to turn or help someone turn to the One that loves to do the impossible.
Application
The Gospel is Powerful. It is all people need. Lord, direct me to someone that needs to hear today.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, you are a Promise Maker and a Promise Keeper. I pray that you work powerfully in my life today. Show me how powerful you are. I pray that you turn many people to repentance today. I pray for the missionaries that will be coming to our church this weekend. Father, use their lives to challenge us to be more involved in reaching this world for you. Thank you for declaring me righteous. Thank you for saving me and appointing me to your service. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Romans 1; Romans 2; Romans 3; Romans 4
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Romans 4
18 Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, "So shall your offspring be." 19 Without weakening in his faith, he faced the fact that his body was as good as dead—since he was about a hundred years old—and that Sarah's womb was also dead. 20 Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, 21 being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised. 22 This is why "it was credited to him as righteousness." 23 The words "it was credited to him" were written not for him alone, 24 but also for us, to whom God will credit righteousness—for us who believe in him who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead. 25 He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification.
Observation
The majority of people in this world still think that you can somehow get to Heaven by being good. They must have never read Romans 1-4! One word keeps coming up through this entire passage and that is the word “believe”. When we put our faith in what Jesus Christ did on the cross for us, when we believe in our hearts that He came, lived a sinless life, died on the cross to pay the penalty for my sins, and when we turn to God and turn away from sin and self then and only then do we have eternal life.
At that moment we are “declared righteous” meaning that it is a righteousness that has been given to us and it is not a righteousness that we have because of our goodness or our good works. Once we have been “declared righteous” we are born into the family of God. Salvation is completely a God thing. I really like and I really believe verse 21 “being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised.” God is a Promise Maker and He is a Promise Keeper. I also like verse 18 because when things are “against all hope” that is when and where God likes to work. Do you find yourself or someone else “against all hope” then you need to turn or help someone turn to the One that loves to do the impossible.
Application
The Gospel is Powerful. It is all people need. Lord, direct me to someone that needs to hear today.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, you are a Promise Maker and a Promise Keeper. I pray that you work powerfully in my life today. Show me how powerful you are. I pray that you turn many people to repentance today. I pray for the missionaries that will be coming to our church this weekend. Father, use their lives to challenge us to be more involved in reaching this world for you. Thank you for declaring me righteous. Thank you for saving me and appointing me to your service. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Are You Weak Today?
1 Thessalonians 4; 1 Thessalonians 5; 2 Thessalonians 1; 2 Thessalonians 2; 2 Thessalonians 3
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Scripture
2 Thessalonians 3
3 But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen and protect you from the evil one.
1 Tim. 1:12
I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me faithful, appointing me to his service.
Observation
If you are feeling weak, I have the answer for you. His name is Jesus.
I think that it is interesting that in both of these verses the word strength and the word faithful are used. In 2 Thessalonians 3:3 Paul says that the Lord is faithful and he will strengthen and protect you, but in 1 Timothy 1:12 Paul says that he thanks Christ Jesus our Lord because Jesus has found Paul faithful. In both passages, his promise to believers is that he will strengthen us. His other promise is to protect us from the evil one. I also like this verse from today’s reading found in 1 Thessalonians 5:24 “The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it.” Aren’t we glad that we belong to a God that is Faithful.
Application
I need to rely on Jesus today for my strength and thank Him that he has found me faithful to appoint me to his service.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, You are my strength. You are my very present help in trouble. Thank you for considering me faithful and appointing me to serve you. Help me be found faithful every day. I pray for the men that I meet with every week that you give them wisdom and help them to make right decisions. Strengthen them and empower them to live victorious lives today. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
1 Thessalonians 4; 1 Thessalonians 5; 2 Thessalonians 1; 2 Thessalonians 2; 2 Thessalonians 3
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Scripture
2 Thessalonians 3
3 But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen and protect you from the evil one.
1 Tim. 1:12
I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me faithful, appointing me to his service.
Observation
If you are feeling weak, I have the answer for you. His name is Jesus.
I think that it is interesting that in both of these verses the word strength and the word faithful are used. In 2 Thessalonians 3:3 Paul says that the Lord is faithful and he will strengthen and protect you, but in 1 Timothy 1:12 Paul says that he thanks Christ Jesus our Lord because Jesus has found Paul faithful. In both passages, his promise to believers is that he will strengthen us. His other promise is to protect us from the evil one. I also like this verse from today’s reading found in 1 Thessalonians 5:24 “The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it.” Aren’t we glad that we belong to a God that is Faithful.
Application
I need to rely on Jesus today for my strength and thank Him that he has found me faithful to appoint me to his service.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, You are my strength. You are my very present help in trouble. Thank you for considering me faithful and appointing me to serve you. Help me be found faithful every day. I pray for the men that I meet with every week that you give them wisdom and help them to make right decisions. Strengthen them and empower them to live victorious lives today. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Therefore Go!
Matthew 28; 1 Thessalonians 1; 1 Thessalonians 2; 1 Thessalonians 3
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Matthew 28
18 Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."
Observation
I am reading a book called “Back to Jerusalem” and it is fascinating. The Gospel started in Jerusalem and spread out to the known world, but today there are countries in need of the Gospel and those countries are situated between China and Israel. The Chinese Christians are determined to take the Gospel through those unreached countries all the way back to Jerusalem. God is mightily at work in our world today. Jesus said, “that all power and authority had been given to him, therefore go…” I think that it is interesting that he didn’t say “stay and build big buildings for me”; he said, “go” and make disciples. Is it time for you and me to go?
Application
I will prepare my life to be able to go.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me be ready to go when you tell me. Give me wisdom in using all the resources that you have provided us so that I don’t miss the opportunity to be obedient to your call. Thank you for my Chinese Christian brothers that are suffering so much for you today. Bless them with success. Give them thousands of souls and give them strength to continue to withstand the persecution. Open wide the doors for them to preach the Gospel. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Matthew 28; 1 Thessalonians 1; 1 Thessalonians 2; 1 Thessalonians 3
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Matthew 28
18 Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."
Observation
I am reading a book called “Back to Jerusalem” and it is fascinating. The Gospel started in Jerusalem and spread out to the known world, but today there are countries in need of the Gospel and those countries are situated between China and Israel. The Chinese Christians are determined to take the Gospel through those unreached countries all the way back to Jerusalem. God is mightily at work in our world today. Jesus said, “that all power and authority had been given to him, therefore go…” I think that it is interesting that he didn’t say “stay and build big buildings for me”; he said, “go” and make disciples. Is it time for you and me to go?
Application
I will prepare my life to be able to go.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me be ready to go when you tell me. Give me wisdom in using all the resources that you have provided us so that I don’t miss the opportunity to be obedient to your call. Thank you for my Chinese Christian brothers that are suffering so much for you today. Bless them with success. Give them thousands of souls and give them strength to continue to withstand the persecution. Open wide the doors for them to preach the Gospel. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Monday, November 26, 2007
The Gospel of the Kingdom
Matthew 23; Matthew 24; Matthew 25
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Matthew 24
14 And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.
Observation
I have become very interested in the country of China. It is hard to imagine a country so huge. The challenge of taking the Gospel to every people group of that enormous country is an exciting challenge. I have purchased several books in the last couple of weeks about the evangelical work in China. One day the last people group will have the opportunity to hear about Jesus and that will be it. It will be all over. Jesus will return in the clouds surrounded by his angels and we that know Him will be caught up to be with him. On this Monday morning that sounds very exciting to me. Come Lord Jesus!
Application
I want to be doing everything that He has asked me to do so that I don’t disappoint Him when He returns.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me with the details of this week. Help me not to get bogged down in them and miss what you want me to see. I want to do what you want me to do. Speak to me; guide me so I don’t miss your will. I pray for the missionaries that will be speaking in our church next week. I pray that you use them in a mighty way to transform us to strengthen us and make us even more mission minded. Call out more people from within our fellowship to go to the mission field. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Matthew 23; Matthew 24; Matthew 25
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Matthew 24
14 And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.
Observation
I have become very interested in the country of China. It is hard to imagine a country so huge. The challenge of taking the Gospel to every people group of that enormous country is an exciting challenge. I have purchased several books in the last couple of weeks about the evangelical work in China. One day the last people group will have the opportunity to hear about Jesus and that will be it. It will be all over. Jesus will return in the clouds surrounded by his angels and we that know Him will be caught up to be with him. On this Monday morning that sounds very exciting to me. Come Lord Jesus!
Application
I want to be doing everything that He has asked me to do so that I don’t disappoint Him when He returns.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me with the details of this week. Help me not to get bogged down in them and miss what you want me to see. I want to do what you want me to do. Speak to me; guide me so I don’t miss your will. I pray for the missionaries that will be speaking in our church next week. I pray that you use them in a mighty way to transform us to strengthen us and make us even more mission minded. Call out more people from within our fellowship to go to the mission field. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Take The First Fish You Catch
Matthew 17; Matthew 18; Matthew 19
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
The Temple Tax
Matthew 17
24 After Jesus and his disciples arrived in Capernaum, the collectors of the two-drachma tax came to Peter and asked, "Doesn't your teacher pay the temple tax?"
25 "Yes, he does," he replied.
When Peter came into the house, Jesus was the first to speak. "What do you think, Simon?" he asked. "From whom do the kings of the earth collect duty and taxes—from their own sons or from others?"
26 "From others," Peter answered.
"Then the sons are exempt," Jesus said to him. 27 "But so that we may not offend them, go to the lake and throw out your line. Take the first fish you catch; open its mouth and you will find a four-drachma coin. Take it and give it to them for my tax and yours."
Observation
I love this story mainly I guess because it is about fishing. Peter went hook and line fishing for this fish. He didn’t use the nets that the fisherman used in the other passages that dealt with fishing.
I think it is interesting that Jesus tells Peter to look in the mouth of the very first fish that he catches. Jesus made it very easy for Peter. I wonder if Peter kept fishing after he caught the first fish. If he did I wonder if he looked in the mouth of the next fish to see if there was any money in its mouth. Like we did when we used to go by a phone booth or sometimes when you pass by a soda machine or snack machine and check to see if there is any change in it that someone has left.
Jesus can and will take care of our needs and he can do it in a million different ways. He can and usually will do it in a way that we didn’t plan. God is so good. We are sons of the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords.
Application
I will look to Jesus to meet every one of my needs because He is 100% faithful, 100% reliable and loves to provide for us.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for your word. You are the Great Provider. Nothing is too hard for you. There is not one thing in my life that is too big for you. You take such good care of my family and me. I pray that you will help me depend on you, give me the faith I need to trust you with every detail of my life. As I visited Earl Conner in the hospital this morning I marvel at how you care for your children. You would have never thought that 91-year-old Earl just had by-pass surgery this week. You are Amazing. You are Wonderful. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Matthew 17; Matthew 18; Matthew 19
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
The Temple Tax
Matthew 17
24 After Jesus and his disciples arrived in Capernaum, the collectors of the two-drachma tax came to Peter and asked, "Doesn't your teacher pay the temple tax?"
25 "Yes, he does," he replied.
When Peter came into the house, Jesus was the first to speak. "What do you think, Simon?" he asked. "From whom do the kings of the earth collect duty and taxes—from their own sons or from others?"
26 "From others," Peter answered.
"Then the sons are exempt," Jesus said to him. 27 "But so that we may not offend them, go to the lake and throw out your line. Take the first fish you catch; open its mouth and you will find a four-drachma coin. Take it and give it to them for my tax and yours."
Observation
I love this story mainly I guess because it is about fishing. Peter went hook and line fishing for this fish. He didn’t use the nets that the fisherman used in the other passages that dealt with fishing.
I think it is interesting that Jesus tells Peter to look in the mouth of the very first fish that he catches. Jesus made it very easy for Peter. I wonder if Peter kept fishing after he caught the first fish. If he did I wonder if he looked in the mouth of the next fish to see if there was any money in its mouth. Like we did when we used to go by a phone booth or sometimes when you pass by a soda machine or snack machine and check to see if there is any change in it that someone has left.
Jesus can and will take care of our needs and he can do it in a million different ways. He can and usually will do it in a way that we didn’t plan. God is so good. We are sons of the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords.
Application
I will look to Jesus to meet every one of my needs because He is 100% faithful, 100% reliable and loves to provide for us.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for your word. You are the Great Provider. Nothing is too hard for you. There is not one thing in my life that is too big for you. You take such good care of my family and me. I pray that you will help me depend on you, give me the faith I need to trust you with every detail of my life. As I visited Earl Conner in the hospital this morning I marvel at how you care for your children. You would have never thought that 91-year-old Earl just had by-pass surgery this week. You are Amazing. You are Wonderful. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Friday, November 23, 2007
And On This Rock I Will Build My Church
Matthew 14; Matthew 15; Matthew 16
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Matthew 16
15 "But what about you?" he asked. "Who do you say I am?" 16 Simon Peter answered, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God." 17 Jesus replied, "Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by man, but by my Father in heaven.
18 And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it. 19 I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven." 20 Then he warned his disciples not to tell anyone that he was the Christ.
Observation
God loves variety. Just look at this world and everything in it. God’s church is the same way. Churches are so different. Even within our denomination that has over 45,000 churches they are so different. You have the inner city church, the church out in the suburbs, and even the country church. And then there are the language churches, where the services are in the heart language of the people and are not in English.
I love going to church. I love visiting other churches. I have been to church in quite a few different countries. I have gone to church in a country where going to church is against the law. Jesus said, “I upon this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it”. He loves His church and so do I. How about you?
Application
This Sunday I am going to enjoy getting together with “His Church” that meets at 300 E. Sligh Ave.! I would encourage you to do the same.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for “church”. No matter where you go in this world “Your church” is on the march to get there. Nothing can stop it, nothing can destroy it, I love your church. Help your church that meets on Sligh Ave. to please you. Help us extend your kingdom. Help us reach new people. Bring people into our paths that need a relationship with you. Thank you for church! Thank you for your church that we call our church. You are so good to us. You are worthy to be praised. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Matthew 14; Matthew 15; Matthew 16
Click Here To Read Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Matthew 16
15 "But what about you?" he asked. "Who do you say I am?" 16 Simon Peter answered, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God." 17 Jesus replied, "Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by man, but by my Father in heaven.
18 And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it. 19 I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven." 20 Then he warned his disciples not to tell anyone that he was the Christ.
Observation
God loves variety. Just look at this world and everything in it. God’s church is the same way. Churches are so different. Even within our denomination that has over 45,000 churches they are so different. You have the inner city church, the church out in the suburbs, and even the country church. And then there are the language churches, where the services are in the heart language of the people and are not in English.
I love going to church. I love visiting other churches. I have been to church in quite a few different countries. I have gone to church in a country where going to church is against the law. Jesus said, “I upon this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it”. He loves His church and so do I. How about you?
Application
This Sunday I am going to enjoy getting together with “His Church” that meets at 300 E. Sligh Ave.! I would encourage you to do the same.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for “church”. No matter where you go in this world “Your church” is on the march to get there. Nothing can stop it, nothing can destroy it, I love your church. Help your church that meets on Sligh Ave. to please you. Help us extend your kingdom. Help us reach new people. Bring people into our paths that need a relationship with you. Thank you for church! Thank you for your church that we call our church. You are so good to us. You are worthy to be praised. Amen.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)