God Uses Creation, God Uses Visions and God Uses Angels To Point People to Him … But He Only Uses People To Tell Other People About Jesus!
Exodus 37; Exodus 38; Psalm 19; Acts 11
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Scripture
Psalm 19
1 The heavens proclaim the glory of God.
The skies display his craftsmanship.
2 Day after day they continue to speak;
night after night they make him known.
3 They speak without a sound or word;
their voice is never heard.
4 Yet their message has gone throughout the earth,
and their words to all the world.
God has made a home in the heavens for the sun.
5 It bursts forth like a radiant bridegroom after his wedding.
It rejoices like a great athlete eager to run the race.
6 The sun rises at one end of the heavens
and follows its course to the other end.
Nothing can hide from its heat.
Acts 11:13-14
13 He told us how an angel had appeared to him in his home and had told him, ‘Send messengers to Joppa, and summon a man named Simon Peter. 14 He will tell you how you and everyone in your household can be saved!’
Observation
The heavens proclaim that there is a Creator God, but the heavens can’t tell people about Jesus. God’s plan may include using His creation, it may include using visions, it may even include the sending of angels to visit you, but God’s plan for spreading the Good News about Jesus is one man or one woman telling another man or another woman about the Savior! Angels don’t get to do it. The Bible says that the angels rejoice when one person is saved but angels don’t get to personally experience the joy of leading someone to faith in Christ that wonderful privilege is reserved only for us.
In Acts 11 we discover that the angel was only able to tell Cornelius that someone named Simon Peter would be coming to tell them how to be saved. God could have used that angel right then and there to go ahead and tell them about Jesus, but He didn’t. We have the privilege and responsibility of winning people to Christ. Angels only get to watch and then they celebrate when we do our job!
Application
I will be His Witness today!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I know that the angel that spoke to Cornelius could have told Him about Jesus but he didn’t because You wanted Peter to have that experience. I want You to use me and I want You to use the people in our church to bring others to faith in Your Son Jesus. Give us that JOY!
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Wednesday, February 04, 2009
Tuesday, February 03, 2009
God’s Plan For Spreading The Gospel – Man to Man
Exodus 35; Exodus 36; Acts 10
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Scripture
Acts 10
Cornelius Calls for Peter
1 At Caesarea there was a man named Cornelius, a centurion in what was known as the Italian Regiment. 2 He and all his family were devout and God-fearing; he gave generously to those in need and prayed to God regularly. 3 One day at about three in the afternoon he had a vision. He distinctly saw an angel of God, who came to him and said, "Cornelius!"
4 Cornelius stared at him in fear. "What is it, Lord?" he asked.
The angel answered, "Your prayers and gifts to the poor have come up as a memorial offering before God. 5 Now send men to Joppa to bring back a man named Simon who is called Peter. 6 He is staying with Simon the tanner, whose house is by the sea."
7 When the angel who spoke to him had gone, Cornelius called two of his servants and a devout soldier who was one of his attendants. 8 He told them everything that had happened and sent them to Joppa.
Peter's Vision
9 About noon the following day as they were on their journey and approaching the city, Peter went up on the roof to pray. 10 He became hungry and wanted something to eat, and while the meal was being prepared, he fell into a trance. 11 He saw heaven opened and something like a large sheet being let down to earth by its four corners. 12 It contained all kinds of four-footed animals, as well as reptiles of the earth and birds of the air. 13 Then a voice told him, "Get up, Peter. Kill and eat."
14 "Surely not, Lord!" Peter replied. "I have never eaten anything impure or unclean."
15 The voice spoke to him a second time, "Do not call anything impure that God has made clean."
16 This happened three times, and immediately the sheet was taken back to heaven.
17 While Peter was wondering about the meaning of the vision, the men sent by Cornelius found out where Simon's house was and stopped at the gate. 18 They called out, asking if Simon who was known as Peter was staying there.
19 While Peter was still thinking about the vision, the Spirit said to him, "Simon, three men are looking for you. 20 So get up and go downstairs. Do not hesitate to go with them, for I have sent them."
21 Peter went down and said to the men, "I'm the one you're looking for. Why have you come?"
22 The men replied, "We have come from Cornelius the centurion. He is a righteous and God-fearing man, who is respected by all the Jewish people. A holy angel told him to have you come to his house so that he could hear what you have to say." 23 Then Peter invited the men into the house to be his guests.
Peter at Cornelius' House
The next day Peter started out with them, and some of the brothers from Joppa went along. 24 The following day he arrived in Caesarea. Cornelius was expecting them and had called together his relatives and close friends. 25 As Peter entered the house, Cornelius met him and fell at his feet in reverence. 26 But Peter made him get up. "Stand up," he said, "I am only a man myself."
27 Talking with him, Peter went inside and found a large gathering of people. 28 He said to them: "You are well aware that it is against our law for a Jew to associate with a Gentile or visit him. But God has shown me that I should not call any man impure or unclean. 29 So when I was sent for, I came without raising any objection. May I ask why you sent for me?"
30 Cornelius answered: "Four days ago I was in my house praying at this hour, at three in the afternoon. Suddenly a man in shining clothes stood before me 31 and said, 'Cornelius, God has heard your prayer and remembered your gifts to the poor. 32 Send to Joppa for Simon who is called Peter. He is a guest in the home of Simon the tanner, who lives by the sea.' 33 So I sent for you immediately, and it was good of you to come. Now we are all here in the presence of God to listen to everything the Lord has commanded you to tell us."
Observation
God spoke to Cornelius through a vision and he spoke to Peter through a vision. Cornelius was told exactly where to find Simon Peter. The angel in the vision told Cornelius to go get Simon Peter and he understood from the angel that Simon Peter would give him a message from God. God prepared Simon Peter to go with these Gentiles by also showing Peter in a vision that all men were the same in God’s eyes and that everybody needed Jesus.
So God prepared the one who would bring the Gospel and He prepared the ones who would receive the Good News about Jesus. The amazing thing about this entire story is that God didn’t need to have Peter come share the Good News about Jesus with Cornelius He could have used the angel. The angel in the vision could have explained the whole plan of salvation but he didn’t because that is not part of God’s plan.
God is going to use us to share the Good News. He is not going to use his angelic force. He could but He is not. He has chosen to use us to save the world. It is a big job, but we are called to do it. The angelic force, God’s Holy Spirit, and all the resources in spiritual realms are at our disposal. We are more than capable of fulfilling this mission.
Isn’t it exciting that God has allowed us the privilege of bringing people to Him!
Application
I will look for people that are prepared like Cornelius to hear the Gospel.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, this is such an exciting passage. Simon Peter was so prejudiced against anyone that was not a Jew and we are no different. Help me to look beyond the color of a person’s skin, help me to look at people through Your eyes. Help me see people the way that You see them. Help me please You with my thoughts and my actions as I go through this day.
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Exodus 35; Exodus 36; Acts 10
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Scripture
Acts 10
Cornelius Calls for Peter
1 At Caesarea there was a man named Cornelius, a centurion in what was known as the Italian Regiment. 2 He and all his family were devout and God-fearing; he gave generously to those in need and prayed to God regularly. 3 One day at about three in the afternoon he had a vision. He distinctly saw an angel of God, who came to him and said, "Cornelius!"
4 Cornelius stared at him in fear. "What is it, Lord?" he asked.
The angel answered, "Your prayers and gifts to the poor have come up as a memorial offering before God. 5 Now send men to Joppa to bring back a man named Simon who is called Peter. 6 He is staying with Simon the tanner, whose house is by the sea."
7 When the angel who spoke to him had gone, Cornelius called two of his servants and a devout soldier who was one of his attendants. 8 He told them everything that had happened and sent them to Joppa.
Peter's Vision
9 About noon the following day as they were on their journey and approaching the city, Peter went up on the roof to pray. 10 He became hungry and wanted something to eat, and while the meal was being prepared, he fell into a trance. 11 He saw heaven opened and something like a large sheet being let down to earth by its four corners. 12 It contained all kinds of four-footed animals, as well as reptiles of the earth and birds of the air. 13 Then a voice told him, "Get up, Peter. Kill and eat."
14 "Surely not, Lord!" Peter replied. "I have never eaten anything impure or unclean."
15 The voice spoke to him a second time, "Do not call anything impure that God has made clean."
16 This happened three times, and immediately the sheet was taken back to heaven.
17 While Peter was wondering about the meaning of the vision, the men sent by Cornelius found out where Simon's house was and stopped at the gate. 18 They called out, asking if Simon who was known as Peter was staying there.
19 While Peter was still thinking about the vision, the Spirit said to him, "Simon, three men are looking for you. 20 So get up and go downstairs. Do not hesitate to go with them, for I have sent them."
21 Peter went down and said to the men, "I'm the one you're looking for. Why have you come?"
22 The men replied, "We have come from Cornelius the centurion. He is a righteous and God-fearing man, who is respected by all the Jewish people. A holy angel told him to have you come to his house so that he could hear what you have to say." 23 Then Peter invited the men into the house to be his guests.
Peter at Cornelius' House
The next day Peter started out with them, and some of the brothers from Joppa went along. 24 The following day he arrived in Caesarea. Cornelius was expecting them and had called together his relatives and close friends. 25 As Peter entered the house, Cornelius met him and fell at his feet in reverence. 26 But Peter made him get up. "Stand up," he said, "I am only a man myself."
27 Talking with him, Peter went inside and found a large gathering of people. 28 He said to them: "You are well aware that it is against our law for a Jew to associate with a Gentile or visit him. But God has shown me that I should not call any man impure or unclean. 29 So when I was sent for, I came without raising any objection. May I ask why you sent for me?"
30 Cornelius answered: "Four days ago I was in my house praying at this hour, at three in the afternoon. Suddenly a man in shining clothes stood before me 31 and said, 'Cornelius, God has heard your prayer and remembered your gifts to the poor. 32 Send to Joppa for Simon who is called Peter. He is a guest in the home of Simon the tanner, who lives by the sea.' 33 So I sent for you immediately, and it was good of you to come. Now we are all here in the presence of God to listen to everything the Lord has commanded you to tell us."
Observation
God spoke to Cornelius through a vision and he spoke to Peter through a vision. Cornelius was told exactly where to find Simon Peter. The angel in the vision told Cornelius to go get Simon Peter and he understood from the angel that Simon Peter would give him a message from God. God prepared Simon Peter to go with these Gentiles by also showing Peter in a vision that all men were the same in God’s eyes and that everybody needed Jesus.
So God prepared the one who would bring the Gospel and He prepared the ones who would receive the Good News about Jesus. The amazing thing about this entire story is that God didn’t need to have Peter come share the Good News about Jesus with Cornelius He could have used the angel. The angel in the vision could have explained the whole plan of salvation but he didn’t because that is not part of God’s plan.
God is going to use us to share the Good News. He is not going to use his angelic force. He could but He is not. He has chosen to use us to save the world. It is a big job, but we are called to do it. The angelic force, God’s Holy Spirit, and all the resources in spiritual realms are at our disposal. We are more than capable of fulfilling this mission.
Isn’t it exciting that God has allowed us the privilege of bringing people to Him!
Application
I will look for people that are prepared like Cornelius to hear the Gospel.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, this is such an exciting passage. Simon Peter was so prejudiced against anyone that was not a Jew and we are no different. Help me to look beyond the color of a person’s skin, help me to look at people through Your eyes. Help me see people the way that You see them. Help me please You with my thoughts and my actions as I go through this day.
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Monday, February 02, 2009
Every Paul Needs A Barnabas
Exodus 33; Exodus 34; Psalm 16; Acts 9
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Scripture
Acts 9
Saul spent several days with the disciples in Damascus. 20 At once he began to preach in the synagogues that Jesus is the Son of God. 21 All those who heard him were astonished and asked, "Isn't he the man who raised havoc in Jerusalem among those who call on this name? And hasn't he come here to take them as prisoners to the chief priests?" 22 Yet Saul grew more and more powerful and baffled the Jews living in Damascus by proving that Jesus is the Christ.
23 After many days had gone by, the Jews conspired to kill him, 24 but Saul learned of their plan. Day and night they kept close watch on the city gates in order to kill him. 25 But his followers took him by night and lowered him in a basket through an opening in the wall.
26 When he came to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples, but they were all afraid of him, not believing that he really was a disciple. 27 But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. He told them how Saul on his journey had seen the Lord and that the Lord had spoken to him, and how in Damascus he had preached fearlessly in the name of Jesus.
Observation
God prepared Saul to become Paul but He also prepared Barnabas to stand up for Paul. There would have been no ministry of Paul without the support of Barnabas. I would have liked to have met Barnabas and one day I will get that opportunity. But for now I have to settle for what I can read about him and his ministry with Paul.
Barnabas’ name, which means “Son of Encouragement”, sure fits him perfectly. When the duo start out working together they are mentioned as Barnabas and Paul, but as their ministry grows suddenly there is a shift in prominence and Luke writes about Paul and Barnabas.
In fact, Barnabas is such an encourager that it ends up causing a real problem between he and Paul over taking John Mark on a second missionary journey with them. Barnabas saw the potential in John Mark while Paul saw only his past failure. Barnabas was going to help John Mark no matter what and that decision cost him a place on Paul’s mission team.
We will follow the ministry of Barnabas as we go through the book of Acts. He is one of my favorite characters in the Bible. I love to encourage people and see them serving successfully.
Application
I will look for an up and coming “Paul” that needs the encouragement of a “Barnabas”.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to be an encouragement to people today. Help me to encourage people to become all that you have meant for them to become. Thank you for our church family. It was a great day of worship yesterday. We are blessed.
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Exodus 33; Exodus 34; Psalm 16; Acts 9
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Scripture
Acts 9
Saul spent several days with the disciples in Damascus. 20 At once he began to preach in the synagogues that Jesus is the Son of God. 21 All those who heard him were astonished and asked, "Isn't he the man who raised havoc in Jerusalem among those who call on this name? And hasn't he come here to take them as prisoners to the chief priests?" 22 Yet Saul grew more and more powerful and baffled the Jews living in Damascus by proving that Jesus is the Christ.
23 After many days had gone by, the Jews conspired to kill him, 24 but Saul learned of their plan. Day and night they kept close watch on the city gates in order to kill him. 25 But his followers took him by night and lowered him in a basket through an opening in the wall.
26 When he came to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples, but they were all afraid of him, not believing that he really was a disciple. 27 But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. He told them how Saul on his journey had seen the Lord and that the Lord had spoken to him, and how in Damascus he had preached fearlessly in the name of Jesus.
Observation
God prepared Saul to become Paul but He also prepared Barnabas to stand up for Paul. There would have been no ministry of Paul without the support of Barnabas. I would have liked to have met Barnabas and one day I will get that opportunity. But for now I have to settle for what I can read about him and his ministry with Paul.
Barnabas’ name, which means “Son of Encouragement”, sure fits him perfectly. When the duo start out working together they are mentioned as Barnabas and Paul, but as their ministry grows suddenly there is a shift in prominence and Luke writes about Paul and Barnabas.
In fact, Barnabas is such an encourager that it ends up causing a real problem between he and Paul over taking John Mark on a second missionary journey with them. Barnabas saw the potential in John Mark while Paul saw only his past failure. Barnabas was going to help John Mark no matter what and that decision cost him a place on Paul’s mission team.
We will follow the ministry of Barnabas as we go through the book of Acts. He is one of my favorite characters in the Bible. I love to encourage people and see them serving successfully.
Application
I will look for an up and coming “Paul” that needs the encouragement of a “Barnabas”.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to be an encouragement to people today. Help me to encourage people to become all that you have meant for them to become. Thank you for our church family. It was a great day of worship yesterday. We are blessed.
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Sunday, February 01, 2009
Praying For Stiff-Necked People
Exodus 30; Exodus 31; Exodus 32; Acts 8
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Scripture
Exodus 32
7 Then the LORD said to Moses, "Go down, because your people, whom you brought up out of Egypt, have become corrupt. 8 They have been quick to turn away from what I commanded them and have made themselves an idol cast in the shape of a calf. They have bowed down to it and sacrificed to it and have said, 'These are your gods, O Israel, who brought you up out of Egypt.'
9 "I have seen these people," the LORD said to Moses, "and they are a stiff-necked people. 10 Now leave me alone so that my anger may burn against them and that I may destroy them. Then I will make you into a great nation."
11 But Moses sought the favor of the LORD his God. "O LORD," he said, "why should your anger burn against your people, whom you brought out of Egypt with great power and a mighty hand? 12 Why should the Egyptians say, 'It was with evil intent that he brought them out, to kill them in the mountains and to wipe them off the face of the earth'? Turn from your fierce anger; relent and do not bring disaster on your people.
13 Remember your servants Abraham, Isaac and Israel, to whom you swore by your own self: 'I will make your descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and I will give your descendants all this land I promised them, and it will be their inheritance forever.' " 14 Then the LORD relented and did not bring on his people the disaster he had threatened.
Observation
How important is it for us to pray for other people? How important is it for us to intercede on their behalf? God listens to our prayers. He wants us to pray so He can act. As I prayed during the night I was impressed to pray for a lot of people and I believe that interceding on their behalf is my biggest responsibility. I don’t do it enough.
Application
I will intercede more for those that are being pulled back into this evil and destructive world and for those that are actively serving the Lord.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me stand in the gap and pray for people like Moses did. I am amazed that he stood face to face with You and stood up for those rebellious people. They sure deserved to be destroyed and I realize that so do I. I don’t deserve Your favor but You give it to me anyway. You are a God of Grace and Mercy. None of us deserve the love and favor that you pour out on us. I am blessed. I pray today for our people. I pray that today would be a day of true worship. I pray that Your Holy Spirit would fall on us today and the worship services would be full of Your Presence and Your Power!
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Exodus 30; Exodus 31; Exodus 32; Acts 8
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Scripture
Exodus 32
7 Then the LORD said to Moses, "Go down, because your people, whom you brought up out of Egypt, have become corrupt. 8 They have been quick to turn away from what I commanded them and have made themselves an idol cast in the shape of a calf. They have bowed down to it and sacrificed to it and have said, 'These are your gods, O Israel, who brought you up out of Egypt.'
9 "I have seen these people," the LORD said to Moses, "and they are a stiff-necked people. 10 Now leave me alone so that my anger may burn against them and that I may destroy them. Then I will make you into a great nation."
11 But Moses sought the favor of the LORD his God. "O LORD," he said, "why should your anger burn against your people, whom you brought out of Egypt with great power and a mighty hand? 12 Why should the Egyptians say, 'It was with evil intent that he brought them out, to kill them in the mountains and to wipe them off the face of the earth'? Turn from your fierce anger; relent and do not bring disaster on your people.
13 Remember your servants Abraham, Isaac and Israel, to whom you swore by your own self: 'I will make your descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and I will give your descendants all this land I promised them, and it will be their inheritance forever.' " 14 Then the LORD relented and did not bring on his people the disaster he had threatened.
Observation
How important is it for us to pray for other people? How important is it for us to intercede on their behalf? God listens to our prayers. He wants us to pray so He can act. As I prayed during the night I was impressed to pray for a lot of people and I believe that interceding on their behalf is my biggest responsibility. I don’t do it enough.
Application
I will intercede more for those that are being pulled back into this evil and destructive world and for those that are actively serving the Lord.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me stand in the gap and pray for people like Moses did. I am amazed that he stood face to face with You and stood up for those rebellious people. They sure deserved to be destroyed and I realize that so do I. I don’t deserve Your favor but You give it to me anyway. You are a God of Grace and Mercy. None of us deserve the love and favor that you pour out on us. I am blessed. I pray today for our people. I pray that today would be a day of true worship. I pray that Your Holy Spirit would fall on us today and the worship services would be full of Your Presence and Your Power!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Do You Think Saul Remembered This Day?
Exodus 28; Exodus 29; Acts 7
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Scripture
The Stoning of Stephen
54 When they heard this, they were furious and gnashed their teeth at him. 55 But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. 56 "Look," he said, "I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God."
57 At this they covered their ears and, yelling at the top of their voices, they all rushed at him, 58 dragged him out of the city and began to stone him. Meanwhile, the witnesses laid their clothes at the feet of a young man named Saul.
59 While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." 60 Then he fell on his knees and cried out, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them." When he had said this, he fell asleep.
Observation
I believe that when the Lord called out to Saul on the road to Damascus and then blinded Saul I can’t help but think that Saul saw the stoning of Stephen over and over in his mind. I am sure that the words that Stephen prayed, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit" and "Lord, do not hold this sin against them" were being played over and over in Saul’s mind. And how about the words of Stephen when he cried out, "Look, I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God." I am sure that Saul remembered those words too when He heard God’s voice that day.
Paul was prepared for the Damascus road experience and was ready to be saved in part because of the way Stephen met his death. I don’t think a day went by where Paul did not relive the death of Stephen. When Paul was stoned almost to death I can’t help but think that he thought about Stephen as each stone struck him.
God uses all kinds of experiences both good and bad to bring people to salvation.
Application
I can’t save people from all their bad circumstances because it is in those bad circumstances they have the opportunity to look up and see Jesus.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I pray this morning for some people that are in crisis. Some of them are in financial trouble and others are in martial difficulties and I can’t fix their problems. I pray that You walk with them through these tough times. I pray that they would fully commit their lives to You so that You could strengthen them and help them. You alone are their salvation. Help them to trust in You.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Exodus 28; Exodus 29; Acts 7
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
The Stoning of Stephen
54 When they heard this, they were furious and gnashed their teeth at him. 55 But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. 56 "Look," he said, "I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God."
57 At this they covered their ears and, yelling at the top of their voices, they all rushed at him, 58 dragged him out of the city and began to stone him. Meanwhile, the witnesses laid their clothes at the feet of a young man named Saul.
59 While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." 60 Then he fell on his knees and cried out, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them." When he had said this, he fell asleep.
Observation
I believe that when the Lord called out to Saul on the road to Damascus and then blinded Saul I can’t help but think that Saul saw the stoning of Stephen over and over in his mind. I am sure that the words that Stephen prayed, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit" and "Lord, do not hold this sin against them" were being played over and over in Saul’s mind. And how about the words of Stephen when he cried out, "Look, I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God." I am sure that Saul remembered those words too when He heard God’s voice that day.
Paul was prepared for the Damascus road experience and was ready to be saved in part because of the way Stephen met his death. I don’t think a day went by where Paul did not relive the death of Stephen. When Paul was stoned almost to death I can’t help but think that he thought about Stephen as each stone struck him.
God uses all kinds of experiences both good and bad to bring people to salvation.
Application
I can’t save people from all their bad circumstances because it is in those bad circumstances they have the opportunity to look up and see Jesus.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I pray this morning for some people that are in crisis. Some of them are in financial trouble and others are in martial difficulties and I can’t fix their problems. I pray that You walk with them through these tough times. I pray that they would fully commit their lives to You so that You could strengthen them and help them. You alone are their salvation. Help them to trust in You.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Friday, January 30, 2009
Face of An Angel
Exodus 25; Exodus 26; Exodus 27; Acts 6
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Scripture
Acts 6
15 At this point everyone in the high council stared at Stephen, because his face became as bright as an angel’s.
Observation
You would think that as they all stared at Stephen as they saw that his face became as bright as an angels that with the fact of all the signs and wonders that he had done that maybe just maybe they would realize that what he was doing was from God but they didn’t care. This high council was not interested in the things of God.
The Sunday School teacher that was instrumental in my coming to faith is Christ had a face like Stephens. There was just something about him that was special. I didn’t realize it at the time, but it came from the fact that he spent so much time with Jesus … and it showed in his countenance. I can remember how that when he taught I didn’t want to miss the next Sunday. Kathy and I will be forever indebted to this teacher and his wife: Charles and Patsy Hartwig. Kathy had the same experience sitting under the teaching of Charles' wife Patsy.
Application
It is my desire to be so much like Jesus that it shows.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, Stephen didn’t get to serve you very long on this earth before he was stoned, but his life continues to touch lives through Your word. May Your face shine on me in a way that causes others to see Jesus in me. I pray today for Charles and Patsy Hartwig. I pray that you give them good health. I pray that you bless them and that You smile on them and I pray that Your face shines on them. Thank you for allowing Kathy and I the privilege of being in their Sunday School class. Continue to use them to further Your kingdom at First Baptist Church of Jacksonville.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Exodus 25; Exodus 26; Exodus 27; Acts 6
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Acts 6
15 At this point everyone in the high council stared at Stephen, because his face became as bright as an angel’s.
Observation
You would think that as they all stared at Stephen as they saw that his face became as bright as an angels that with the fact of all the signs and wonders that he had done that maybe just maybe they would realize that what he was doing was from God but they didn’t care. This high council was not interested in the things of God.
The Sunday School teacher that was instrumental in my coming to faith is Christ had a face like Stephens. There was just something about him that was special. I didn’t realize it at the time, but it came from the fact that he spent so much time with Jesus … and it showed in his countenance. I can remember how that when he taught I didn’t want to miss the next Sunday. Kathy and I will be forever indebted to this teacher and his wife: Charles and Patsy Hartwig. Kathy had the same experience sitting under the teaching of Charles' wife Patsy.
Application
It is my desire to be so much like Jesus that it shows.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, Stephen didn’t get to serve you very long on this earth before he was stoned, but his life continues to touch lives through Your word. May Your face shine on me in a way that causes others to see Jesus in me. I pray today for Charles and Patsy Hartwig. I pray that you give them good health. I pray that you bless them and that You smile on them and I pray that Your face shines on them. Thank you for allowing Kathy and I the privilege of being in their Sunday School class. Continue to use them to further Your kingdom at First Baptist Church of Jacksonville.
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Thursday, January 29, 2009
"We must obey God rather than men!”
Exodus 23; Exodus 24; Psalm 14; Acts 5
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Scripture
Acts 5
29 Peter and the other apostles replied: "We must obey God rather than men!
Observation
When our government does things that are completely contrary to the Word of God like encouraging women to kill their unborn children we must decide who we will obey God or men. I believe that Christians will be forced to decide whether to obey God or men on many more issues in the future.
If you and I decide to do what is right then we have this promise from the Lord found in 2 Chronicles 16:9, “For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him.”
Application
I will obey God rather than man.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we live in an evil world. I know that you are very aware of that fact. Help us protect the unborn and the elderly from those who do not value life. I pray for godly leadership that will stand up against the forces of evil and lead our country in the right direction. I pray that our President will have a change of heart about the abortion issue. Give him wisdom to lead our country according to Your Word.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Exodus 23; Exodus 24; Psalm 14; Acts 5
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Acts 5
29 Peter and the other apostles replied: "We must obey God rather than men!
Observation
When our government does things that are completely contrary to the Word of God like encouraging women to kill their unborn children we must decide who we will obey God or men. I believe that Christians will be forced to decide whether to obey God or men on many more issues in the future.
If you and I decide to do what is right then we have this promise from the Lord found in 2 Chronicles 16:9, “For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him.”
Application
I will obey God rather than man.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we live in an evil world. I know that you are very aware of that fact. Help us protect the unborn and the elderly from those who do not value life. I pray for godly leadership that will stand up against the forces of evil and lead our country in the right direction. I pray that our President will have a change of heart about the abortion issue. Give him wisdom to lead our country according to Your Word.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
People Need The Lord
Exodus 21; Exodus 22; Psalm 12; Acts 4
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Scripture
Acts 4
12 Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved."
Observation
Kathy just told me last night about a couple in California. This couple had lost their jobs and had become so desperate that murdered their five children and then both committed suicide. They were going to lose everything and were not going to be able to take care of their children (all under the age of 8 years old). They did not want someone else to have their children so they killed them and then killed themselves. We live in a crazy messed up world/country. They were hopeless.
“Salvation (and hope) is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.”
People need Jesus. People need the Lord.
Application
Godlessness breeds hopelessness. People need the Lord. We have the Hope that people need. His Name is Jesus!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, Jesus is the name that is above all other names. Salvation is found in Him and in Him alone. He is the only way to salvation. I pray that our church will continue to be a light for those living in darkness and in hopelessness. I pray that You would continue to use our people to touch the lives of those around them. Thank you that I don’t lack one single thing to be able to live the life that You have called me to live. Your Holy Spirit that lives in me is all I need!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Exodus 21; Exodus 22; Psalm 12; Acts 4
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Acts 4
12 Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved."
Observation
Kathy just told me last night about a couple in California. This couple had lost their jobs and had become so desperate that murdered their five children and then both committed suicide. They were going to lose everything and were not going to be able to take care of their children (all under the age of 8 years old). They did not want someone else to have their children so they killed them and then killed themselves. We live in a crazy messed up world/country. They were hopeless.
“Salvation (and hope) is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.”
People need Jesus. People need the Lord.
Application
Godlessness breeds hopelessness. People need the Lord. We have the Hope that people need. His Name is Jesus!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, Jesus is the name that is above all other names. Salvation is found in Him and in Him alone. He is the only way to salvation. I pray that our church will continue to be a light for those living in darkness and in hopelessness. I pray that You would continue to use our people to touch the lives of those around them. Thank you that I don’t lack one single thing to be able to live the life that You have called me to live. Your Holy Spirit that lives in me is all I need!
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Wipe Out!
Exodus 17; Exodus 18; Exodus 19; Exodus 20; Acts 3
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Scripture
Acts 3
19 Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord,
Observation
When we hear of mud slides happening in a certain place we sometimes hear that an entire village, or community has been wiped out. We understand the phrase “wiped out” when we hear of the terrible power of a tsunami, or a category five hurricane, or things wiped out that were in the path of a tornado. Or we understand the phrase “wiped out” in a positive way when we talk about wiping out a terrible disease like polio, or aids, or cholera.
Our sins can be wiped out too, but there is only One way to wipe them out, “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord”. There is salvation in no one else! There is no other name in all of heaven for people to call on to save them." (Acts 4:12 NLT) Only Jesus can wipe out our sins.
Application
I will use the word; “repent” with someone today to help them understand God’s love for them.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for wiping out my sins. Help me to help others grasp this truth. Peter and John met a crippled man that day and they helped him be set free from his sin. What happened in his heart was more important than his physical healing. Give me the boldness of Peter and John today. Completely fill me and control me with Your Holy Spirit.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Exodus 17; Exodus 18; Exodus 19; Exodus 20; Acts 3
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Acts 3
19 Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord,
Observation
When we hear of mud slides happening in a certain place we sometimes hear that an entire village, or community has been wiped out. We understand the phrase “wiped out” when we hear of the terrible power of a tsunami, or a category five hurricane, or things wiped out that were in the path of a tornado. Or we understand the phrase “wiped out” in a positive way when we talk about wiping out a terrible disease like polio, or aids, or cholera.
Our sins can be wiped out too, but there is only One way to wipe them out, “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord”. There is salvation in no one else! There is no other name in all of heaven for people to call on to save them." (Acts 4:12 NLT) Only Jesus can wipe out our sins.
Application
I will use the word; “repent” with someone today to help them understand God’s love for them.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for wiping out my sins. Help me to help others grasp this truth. Peter and John met a crippled man that day and they helped him be set free from his sin. What happened in his heart was more important than his physical healing. Give me the boldness of Peter and John today. Completely fill me and control me with Your Holy Spirit.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Monday, January 26, 2009
“Save yourselves from this corrupt generation."
Exodus 14; Exodus 16; Acts 2
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Scripture
Acts 2
36 "Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ."
37 When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, "Brothers, what shall we do?"
38 Peter replied, "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call."
40 With many other words he warned them; and he pleaded with them, "Save yourselves from this corrupt generation." 41 Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.
42 They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43 Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles.
44 All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need. 46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.
Observation
“Save yourselves from this corrupt generation." Peter’s words sure seem right for us today! Our government is on a self-destruct path of corruption. Our country’s leadership is a reflection of the moral condition of our country.
When the people heard Peter’s sermon they cried out, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter’s response to them is what our nation should do right now, "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call."
Three thousand people were saved that day! They took serious the words of Peter and their lives were forever changed. We need more voices crying out to our generation to repent. The word “repent” means to change direction and we definitely need to change the direction of where our country is heading! It is the most positive word in the dictionary!
When you get frustrated with corrupt political leadership you need to remember that they mirror who we are as a country. There is hope for our country and that hope is wrapped up in one word and in one Person: that one word is “Repent” and the one Person is “Jesus”.
Application
I will point people to Jesus.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, corruption always happens when people turn their backs on You. I pray for revival. I pray that our country would turn from sin and self and turn back to You. I pray that You raise up godly leaders to take our country through these rough times. I pray for our President that You would give Him wisdom and I pray that You help him make decisions based on Your moral values. I pray that You change his heart about abortion.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Exodus 14; Exodus 16; Acts 2
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Acts 2
36 "Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ."
37 When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, "Brothers, what shall we do?"
38 Peter replied, "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call."
40 With many other words he warned them; and he pleaded with them, "Save yourselves from this corrupt generation." 41 Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.
42 They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43 Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles.
44 All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need. 46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.
Observation
“Save yourselves from this corrupt generation." Peter’s words sure seem right for us today! Our government is on a self-destruct path of corruption. Our country’s leadership is a reflection of the moral condition of our country.
When the people heard Peter’s sermon they cried out, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter’s response to them is what our nation should do right now, "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call."
Three thousand people were saved that day! They took serious the words of Peter and their lives were forever changed. We need more voices crying out to our generation to repent. The word “repent” means to change direction and we definitely need to change the direction of where our country is heading! It is the most positive word in the dictionary!
When you get frustrated with corrupt political leadership you need to remember that they mirror who we are as a country. There is hope for our country and that hope is wrapped up in one word and in one Person: that one word is “Repent” and the one Person is “Jesus”.
Application
I will point people to Jesus.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, corruption always happens when people turn their backs on You. I pray for revival. I pray that our country would turn from sin and self and turn back to You. I pray that You raise up godly leaders to take our country through these rough times. I pray for our President that You would give Him wisdom and I pray that You help him make decisions based on Your moral values. I pray that You change his heart about abortion.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Our Passover Lamb
Exodus 12; Exodus 13; Psalm 21; Acts 1
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Scripture
Exodus 12
The Passover
1 The LORD said to Moses and Aaron in Egypt, 2 "This month is to be for you the first month, the first month of your year. 3 Tell the whole community of Israel that on the tenth day of this month each man is to take a lamb for his family, one for each household. 4 If any household is too small for a whole lamb, they must share one with their nearest neighbor, having taken into account the number of people there are. You are to determine the amount of lamb needed in accordance with what each person will eat. 5 The animals you choose must be year-old males without defect, and you may take them from the sheep or the goats. 6 Take care of them until the fourteenth day of the month, when all the people of the community of Israel must slaughter them at twilight.
7 Then they are to take some of the blood and put it on the sides and tops of the doorframes of the houses where they eat the lambs. 8 That same night they are to eat the meat roasted over the fire, along with bitter herbs, and bread made without yeast. 9 Do not eat the meat raw or cooked in water, but roast it over the fire—head, legs and inner parts. 10 Do not leave any of it till morning; if some is left till morning, you must burn it. 11 This is how you are to eat it: with your cloak tucked into your belt, your sandals on your feet and your staff in your hand. Eat it in haste; it is the LORD's Passover.
12 "On that same night I will pass through Egypt and strike down every firstborn—both men and animals—and I will bring judgment on all the gods of Egypt. I am the LORD. 13 The blood will be a sign for you on the houses where you are; and when I see the blood, I will pass over you. No destructive plague will touch you when I strike Egypt.
14 "This is a day you are to commemorate; for the generations to come you shall celebrate it as a festival to the LORD -a lasting ordinance. 15 For seven days you are to eat bread made without yeast. On the first day remove the yeast from your houses, for whoever eats anything with yeast in it from the first day through the seventh must be cut off from Israel. 16 On the first day hold a sacred assembly, and another one on the seventh day. Do no work at all on these days, except to prepare food for everyone to eat—that is all you may do.
17 "Celebrate the Feast of Unleavened Bread, because it was on this very day that I brought your divisions out of Egypt. Celebrate this day as a lasting ordinance for the generations to come. 18 In the first month you are to eat bread made without yeast, from the evening of the fourteenth day until the evening of the twenty-first day. 19 For seven days no yeast is to be found in your houses. And whoever eats anything with yeast in it must be cut off from the community of Israel, whether he is an alien or native-born. 20 Eat nothing made with yeast. Wherever you live, you must eat unleavened bread."
21 Then Moses summoned all the elders of Israel and said to them, "Go at once and select the animals for your families and slaughter the Passover lamb. 22 Take a bunch of hyssop, dip it into the blood in the basin and put some of the blood on the top and on both sides of the doorframe. Not one of you shall go out the door of his house until morning. 23 When the LORD goes through the land to strike down the Egyptians, he will see the blood on the top and sides of the doorframe and will pass over that doorway, and he will not permit the destroyer to enter your houses and strike you down.
Observation
Our Passover Lamb has been slain. His name is Jesus. His blood was shed for you and for me. The nation of Israel had to trust the Lord and they applied the blood of the Passover lamb to the doorframes of their homes in obedience. Jesus poured out His blood for us but we must apply it to our lives. We must say in our hearts, “Yes, Jesus died for me and I trust Him for my salvation. Forgive me of my sins. Come into my life as my Lord and my Savior.”
Is He your Passover Lamb? Have you been saved by the blood of the Lamb?
Application
I will celebrate the fact that I am saved by the Passover Lamb. His name is Jesus!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for allowing me the opportunity to trust in Jesus. Thank you that I don’t have to die in my sins. The blood of Jesus has paid the penalty for my sins. I don’t deserve heaven, but thank you for paying my way. I pray for Trevor Thomas and his wife Sawyer as they come to lead us in worship today. Bless them Father as they serve You.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Exodus 12; Exodus 13; Psalm 21; Acts 1
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Exodus 12
The Passover
1 The LORD said to Moses and Aaron in Egypt, 2 "This month is to be for you the first month, the first month of your year. 3 Tell the whole community of Israel that on the tenth day of this month each man is to take a lamb for his family, one for each household. 4 If any household is too small for a whole lamb, they must share one with their nearest neighbor, having taken into account the number of people there are. You are to determine the amount of lamb needed in accordance with what each person will eat. 5 The animals you choose must be year-old males without defect, and you may take them from the sheep or the goats. 6 Take care of them until the fourteenth day of the month, when all the people of the community of Israel must slaughter them at twilight.
7 Then they are to take some of the blood and put it on the sides and tops of the doorframes of the houses where they eat the lambs. 8 That same night they are to eat the meat roasted over the fire, along with bitter herbs, and bread made without yeast. 9 Do not eat the meat raw or cooked in water, but roast it over the fire—head, legs and inner parts. 10 Do not leave any of it till morning; if some is left till morning, you must burn it. 11 This is how you are to eat it: with your cloak tucked into your belt, your sandals on your feet and your staff in your hand. Eat it in haste; it is the LORD's Passover.
12 "On that same night I will pass through Egypt and strike down every firstborn—both men and animals—and I will bring judgment on all the gods of Egypt. I am the LORD. 13 The blood will be a sign for you on the houses where you are; and when I see the blood, I will pass over you. No destructive plague will touch you when I strike Egypt.
14 "This is a day you are to commemorate; for the generations to come you shall celebrate it as a festival to the LORD -a lasting ordinance. 15 For seven days you are to eat bread made without yeast. On the first day remove the yeast from your houses, for whoever eats anything with yeast in it from the first day through the seventh must be cut off from Israel. 16 On the first day hold a sacred assembly, and another one on the seventh day. Do no work at all on these days, except to prepare food for everyone to eat—that is all you may do.
17 "Celebrate the Feast of Unleavened Bread, because it was on this very day that I brought your divisions out of Egypt. Celebrate this day as a lasting ordinance for the generations to come. 18 In the first month you are to eat bread made without yeast, from the evening of the fourteenth day until the evening of the twenty-first day. 19 For seven days no yeast is to be found in your houses. And whoever eats anything with yeast in it must be cut off from the community of Israel, whether he is an alien or native-born. 20 Eat nothing made with yeast. Wherever you live, you must eat unleavened bread."
21 Then Moses summoned all the elders of Israel and said to them, "Go at once and select the animals for your families and slaughter the Passover lamb. 22 Take a bunch of hyssop, dip it into the blood in the basin and put some of the blood on the top and on both sides of the doorframe. Not one of you shall go out the door of his house until morning. 23 When the LORD goes through the land to strike down the Egyptians, he will see the blood on the top and sides of the doorframe and will pass over that doorway, and he will not permit the destroyer to enter your houses and strike you down.
Observation
Our Passover Lamb has been slain. His name is Jesus. His blood was shed for you and for me. The nation of Israel had to trust the Lord and they applied the blood of the Passover lamb to the doorframes of their homes in obedience. Jesus poured out His blood for us but we must apply it to our lives. We must say in our hearts, “Yes, Jesus died for me and I trust Him for my salvation. Forgive me of my sins. Come into my life as my Lord and my Savior.”
Is He your Passover Lamb? Have you been saved by the blood of the Lamb?
Application
I will celebrate the fact that I am saved by the Passover Lamb. His name is Jesus!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for allowing me the opportunity to trust in Jesus. Thank you that I don’t have to die in my sins. The blood of Jesus has paid the penalty for my sins. I don’t deserve heaven, but thank you for paying my way. I pray for Trevor Thomas and his wife Sawyer as they come to lead us in worship today. Bless them Father as they serve You.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Saturday, January 24, 2009
How to Pray For Those Around You
Exodus 9; Exodus 10; Exodus 11; Luke 24
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Scripture
Luke 24
36 While they were still talking about this, Jesus himself stood among them and said to them, "Peace be with you."
37 They were startled and frightened, thinking they saw a ghost. 38 He said to them, "Why are you troubled, and why do doubts rise in your minds? 39 Look at my hands and my feet. It is I myself! Touch me and see; a ghost does not have flesh and bones, as you see I have."
40 When he had said this, he showed them his hands and feet. 41 And while they still did not believe it because of joy and amazement, he asked them, "Do you have anything here to eat?" 42 They gave him a piece of broiled fish, 43 and he took it and ate it in their presence.
44 He said to them, "This is what I told you while I was still with you: Everything must be fulfilled that is written about me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms."
45 Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures. 46 He told them, "This is what is written: The Christ will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, 47 and repentance and forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. 48 You are witnesses of these things. 49 I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high."
Observation
How would you liked to have been the disciples that Jesus talked with walking down the road to Emmaus? Wow! Take time to read this entire chapter so you will know what I am talking about! In Exodus we are reading how God hardened Pharaoh’s heart and in Luke we are reading how Jesus opened the minds of the disciples.
Paul prays in Ephesians 1:15-21 that the believer’s hearts may be enlightened,
“For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers.
I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better.
I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe.
That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come.”
Application
I will pray for God to open the eyes of the hearts of my family and friends that still do not know Him or that may know Him but are walking in disobedience.
And for those that do know Him I will pray that the Lord gives them the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that they may know him better.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I pray and ask You to open the eyes of the hearts of my family and friends that still do not know You. And for those that do know You I ask that You give them the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that they may know You better.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Exodus 9; Exodus 10; Exodus 11; Luke 24
Click Here To Read Or Listen To Today’s Daily Bible Reading
Scripture
Luke 24
36 While they were still talking about this, Jesus himself stood among them and said to them, "Peace be with you."
37 They were startled and frightened, thinking they saw a ghost. 38 He said to them, "Why are you troubled, and why do doubts rise in your minds? 39 Look at my hands and my feet. It is I myself! Touch me and see; a ghost does not have flesh and bones, as you see I have."
40 When he had said this, he showed them his hands and feet. 41 And while they still did not believe it because of joy and amazement, he asked them, "Do you have anything here to eat?" 42 They gave him a piece of broiled fish, 43 and he took it and ate it in their presence.
44 He said to them, "This is what I told you while I was still with you: Everything must be fulfilled that is written about me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms."
45 Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures. 46 He told them, "This is what is written: The Christ will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, 47 and repentance and forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. 48 You are witnesses of these things. 49 I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high."
Observation
How would you liked to have been the disciples that Jesus talked with walking down the road to Emmaus? Wow! Take time to read this entire chapter so you will know what I am talking about! In Exodus we are reading how God hardened Pharaoh’s heart and in Luke we are reading how Jesus opened the minds of the disciples.
Paul prays in Ephesians 1:15-21 that the believer’s hearts may be enlightened,
“For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers.
I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better.
I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe.
That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come.”
Application
I will pray for God to open the eyes of the hearts of my family and friends that still do not know Him or that may know Him but are walking in disobedience.
And for those that do know Him I will pray that the Lord gives them the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that they may know him better.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I pray and ask You to open the eyes of the hearts of my family and friends that still do not know You. And for those that do know You I ask that You give them the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that they may know You better.
Today’s "Life Journal" Daily Bible Reading can be found on Line. Click Here!
Friday, January 23, 2009
Heart Condition … Who Can Change It?
Exodus 6; Exodus 7; Exodus 8; Luke 23
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Scripture
Exodus 7
1 Then the LORD said to Moses, “Pay close attention to this. I will make you seem like God to Pharaoh, and your brother, Aaron, will be your prophet. 2 Tell Aaron everything I command you, and Aaron must command Pharaoh to let the people of Israel leave his country. 3 But I will make Pharaoh’s heart stubborn so I can multiply my miraculous signs and wonders in the land of Egypt. 4 Even then Pharaoh will refuse to listen to you. So I will bring down my fist on Egypt. Then I will rescue my forces—my people, the Israelites—from the land of Egypt with great acts of judgment. 5 When I raise my powerful hand and bring out the Israelites, the Egyptians will know that I am the LORD.”
6 So Moses and Aaron did just as the LORD had commanded them. 7 Moses was eighty years old, and Aaron was eighty-three when they made their demands to Pharaoh.
8 Then the LORD said to Moses and Aaron, 9 “Pharaoh will demand, ‘Show me a miracle.’ When he does this, say to Aaron, ‘Take your staff and throw it down in front of Pharaoh, and it will become a serpent.”
10 So Moses and Aaron went to Pharaoh and did what the LORD had commanded them. Aaron threw down his staff before Pharaoh and his officials, and it became a serpent! 11 Then Pharaoh called in his own wise men and sorcerers, and these Egyptian magicians did the same thing with their magic. 12 They threw down their staffs, which also became serpents! But then Aaron’s staff swallowed up their staffs. 13 Pharaoh’s heart, however, remained hard. He still refused to listen, just as the LORD had predicted.
Observation
God can change the condition of someone’s heart I know because he changed mine. And since He softened and completely changed my heart and my life I know that He can do the same for those I pray for.
Who is on your list that you would like to see saved? Who needs a changed heart? I believe that someone prayed for me and that is why I am saved. I believe it was my grandmother’s prayers for me that caused God to soften my heart. I could be wrong but if it wasn’t her it was someone else. It could have been my R.A. counselor at the church I went to with my grandmother. He kept up with me through my entire childhood even though I had stopped going to R.A.’s when my grandmother became too sick to go to church. I remember him dropping by to say, “hi”. I know that I grew up in the thick of sin and my heart was hard, but at 19 years old I wanted a relationship with God, I wanted to turn from sin and I remember turning my life over to Jesus. He completely changed my heart; He completely changed my life!
God it did that for me He can do that for those close to me that at this moment have hard hearts and are fighting against God.
Application
I will pray for those I know who need spiritual heart surgery.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I love this story of Moses against Pharaoh and how You showed Your Mighty Power and Your Unfailing Love for Your people. I know that the story is in the Bible for me and for the rest of world that You created. I pray that You soften the hearts of those I love that seem to have their hearts so hardened against You. I know that for some reason You changed my heart and I pray that You do the same thing for them.
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Exodus 6; Exodus 7; Exodus 8; Luke 23
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Scripture
Exodus 7
1 Then the LORD said to Moses, “Pay close attention to this. I will make you seem like God to Pharaoh, and your brother, Aaron, will be your prophet. 2 Tell Aaron everything I command you, and Aaron must command Pharaoh to let the people of Israel leave his country. 3 But I will make Pharaoh’s heart stubborn so I can multiply my miraculous signs and wonders in the land of Egypt. 4 Even then Pharaoh will refuse to listen to you. So I will bring down my fist on Egypt. Then I will rescue my forces—my people, the Israelites—from the land of Egypt with great acts of judgment. 5 When I raise my powerful hand and bring out the Israelites, the Egyptians will know that I am the LORD.”
6 So Moses and Aaron did just as the LORD had commanded them. 7 Moses was eighty years old, and Aaron was eighty-three when they made their demands to Pharaoh.
8 Then the LORD said to Moses and Aaron, 9 “Pharaoh will demand, ‘Show me a miracle.’ When he does this, say to Aaron, ‘Take your staff and throw it down in front of Pharaoh, and it will become a serpent.”
10 So Moses and Aaron went to Pharaoh and did what the LORD had commanded them. Aaron threw down his staff before Pharaoh and his officials, and it became a serpent! 11 Then Pharaoh called in his own wise men and sorcerers, and these Egyptian magicians did the same thing with their magic. 12 They threw down their staffs, which also became serpents! But then Aaron’s staff swallowed up their staffs. 13 Pharaoh’s heart, however, remained hard. He still refused to listen, just as the LORD had predicted.
Observation
God can change the condition of someone’s heart I know because he changed mine. And since He softened and completely changed my heart and my life I know that He can do the same for those I pray for.
Who is on your list that you would like to see saved? Who needs a changed heart? I believe that someone prayed for me and that is why I am saved. I believe it was my grandmother’s prayers for me that caused God to soften my heart. I could be wrong but if it wasn’t her it was someone else. It could have been my R.A. counselor at the church I went to with my grandmother. He kept up with me through my entire childhood even though I had stopped going to R.A.’s when my grandmother became too sick to go to church. I remember him dropping by to say, “hi”. I know that I grew up in the thick of sin and my heart was hard, but at 19 years old I wanted a relationship with God, I wanted to turn from sin and I remember turning my life over to Jesus. He completely changed my heart; He completely changed my life!
God it did that for me He can do that for those close to me that at this moment have hard hearts and are fighting against God.
Application
I will pray for those I know who need spiritual heart surgery.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I love this story of Moses against Pharaoh and how You showed Your Mighty Power and Your Unfailing Love for Your people. I know that the story is in the Bible for me and for the rest of world that You created. I pray that You soften the hearts of those I love that seem to have their hearts so hardened against You. I know that for some reason You changed my heart and I pray that You do the same thing for them.
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Thursday, January 22, 2009
A Lesson Of Love
Exodus 3; Exodus 4; Exodus 5; Luke 22
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Scripture
Luke 22
31 “Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift each of you like wheat. 32 But I have pleaded in prayer for you, Simon, that your faith should not fail. So when you have repented and turned to me again, strengthen your brothers.”
33 Peter said, “Lord, I am ready to go to prison with you, and even to die with you.”
34 But Jesus said, “Peter, let me tell you something. Before the rooster crows tomorrow morning, you will deny three times that you even know me.”
54 So they arrested him and led him to the high priest’s home. And Peter followed at a distance. 55 The guards lit a fire in the middle of the courtyard and sat around it, and Peter joined them there. 56 A servant girl noticed him in the firelight and began staring at him. Finally she said, “This man was one of Jesus’ followers!”
57 But Peter denied it. “Woman,” he said, “I don’t even know him!”
58 After a while someone else looked at him and said, “You must be one of them!”
“No, man, I’m not!” Peter retorted.
59 About an hour later someone else insisted, “This must be one of them, because he is a Galilean, too.”
60 But Peter said, “Man, I don’t know what you are talking about.” And immediately, while he was still speaking, the rooster crowed.
61 At that moment the Lord turned and looked at Peter. Suddenly, the Lord’s words flashed through Peter’s mind: “Before the rooster crows tomorrow morning, you will deny three times that you even know me.” 62 And Peter left the courtyard, weeping bitterly.
Observation
Simon Peter is getting ready to learn a lesson about the Extreme Love of Christ. This is only a partial lesson that will be completed after the resurrection of Jesus. John chapter 21 is all about Jesus restoring Peter back to fellowship after his denial. This story is a lesson of Extreme Love demonstrated through Extreme Forgiveness.
It is a lesson for you and a lesson for me. Jesus loves us that much. In fact, nothing can change God’s love for us. No matter what I do Jesus is still going to love me just the same. No matter how much I disappoint Him and there are going to be times when I do His love for me will never change! I have experienced His Extreme Love and Forgiveness and I have been forgiven for all of my sins. How about you?
Application
I will thank the Lord for the relationship that I have with Him. I am one of His children. It can’t get any better than that.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you, thank you, thank you, for saving me. Thank you that today I am forgiven and I will never receive the punishment from you that I deserve. Thank you that Your love for me will never change.
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Exodus 3; Exodus 4; Exodus 5; Luke 22
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Scripture
Luke 22
31 “Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift each of you like wheat. 32 But I have pleaded in prayer for you, Simon, that your faith should not fail. So when you have repented and turned to me again, strengthen your brothers.”
33 Peter said, “Lord, I am ready to go to prison with you, and even to die with you.”
34 But Jesus said, “Peter, let me tell you something. Before the rooster crows tomorrow morning, you will deny three times that you even know me.”
54 So they arrested him and led him to the high priest’s home. And Peter followed at a distance. 55 The guards lit a fire in the middle of the courtyard and sat around it, and Peter joined them there. 56 A servant girl noticed him in the firelight and began staring at him. Finally she said, “This man was one of Jesus’ followers!”
57 But Peter denied it. “Woman,” he said, “I don’t even know him!”
58 After a while someone else looked at him and said, “You must be one of them!”
“No, man, I’m not!” Peter retorted.
59 About an hour later someone else insisted, “This must be one of them, because he is a Galilean, too.”
60 But Peter said, “Man, I don’t know what you are talking about.” And immediately, while he was still speaking, the rooster crowed.
61 At that moment the Lord turned and looked at Peter. Suddenly, the Lord’s words flashed through Peter’s mind: “Before the rooster crows tomorrow morning, you will deny three times that you even know me.” 62 And Peter left the courtyard, weeping bitterly.
Observation
Simon Peter is getting ready to learn a lesson about the Extreme Love of Christ. This is only a partial lesson that will be completed after the resurrection of Jesus. John chapter 21 is all about Jesus restoring Peter back to fellowship after his denial. This story is a lesson of Extreme Love demonstrated through Extreme Forgiveness.
It is a lesson for you and a lesson for me. Jesus loves us that much. In fact, nothing can change God’s love for us. No matter what I do Jesus is still going to love me just the same. No matter how much I disappoint Him and there are going to be times when I do His love for me will never change! I have experienced His Extreme Love and Forgiveness and I have been forgiven for all of my sins. How about you?
Application
I will thank the Lord for the relationship that I have with Him. I am one of His children. It can’t get any better than that.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you, thank you, thank you, for saving me. Thank you that today I am forgiven and I will never receive the punishment from you that I deserve. Thank you that Your love for me will never change.
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Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Mount of Olives … Not a Holiday Inn!
Exodus 1; Exodus 2; Psalm 88; Luke 21
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Scripture
Luke 21
37 Every day Jesus went to the Temple to teach, and each evening he returned to spend the night on the Mount of Olives. 38 The crowds gathered at the Temple early each morning to hear him.
Observation
The Bible says that Jesus did not have a home. It says that He had nowhere to lay his head. "Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head." Luke 9:58. Have you ever thought about that statement? Jesus Christ, the one that created this entire Universe came to this earth and did not even own His own home. His only possessions were the clothes that He had on each day. How would you have liked to have taught all day long and then go somewhere and sleep outside only to repeat the cycle again the next day? They didn’t carry with them each night their tents, their camp stoves, their army cots, or their sleeping bags. We don’t ever think about that do we?
When we complain about what we are missing in this life it must make Jesus chuckle and then when we continue to complain it must make Him a bit angry don’t you think. We are so blessed in this country.
Application
I thank the Lord for the roof over my head and I thank Him for every creature comfort that I get to enjoy.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we read the scriptures sometimes we fail to see the real picture. Thank you for coming to this earth and showing us how we should live. Help me not to complain today. I am so blessed. Thank you for providing me and my family with so much. I pray for our new president today and his family. Give him wisdom. Keep him from listening to ungodly counsel. Help him to make Godly decisions.
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Exodus 1; Exodus 2; Psalm 88; Luke 21
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Scripture
Luke 21
37 Every day Jesus went to the Temple to teach, and each evening he returned to spend the night on the Mount of Olives. 38 The crowds gathered at the Temple early each morning to hear him.
Observation
The Bible says that Jesus did not have a home. It says that He had nowhere to lay his head. "Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head." Luke 9:58. Have you ever thought about that statement? Jesus Christ, the one that created this entire Universe came to this earth and did not even own His own home. His only possessions were the clothes that He had on each day. How would you have liked to have taught all day long and then go somewhere and sleep outside only to repeat the cycle again the next day? They didn’t carry with them each night their tents, their camp stoves, their army cots, or their sleeping bags. We don’t ever think about that do we?
When we complain about what we are missing in this life it must make Jesus chuckle and then when we continue to complain it must make Him a bit angry don’t you think. We are so blessed in this country.
Application
I thank the Lord for the roof over my head and I thank Him for every creature comfort that I get to enjoy.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we read the scriptures sometimes we fail to see the real picture. Thank you for coming to this earth and showing us how we should live. Help me not to complain today. I am so blessed. Thank you for providing me and my family with so much. I pray for our new president today and his family. Give him wisdom. Keep him from listening to ungodly counsel. Help him to make Godly decisions.
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Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Grand, Magnificent, Impressive, Exalted, Grandiose!
Genesis 49; Genesis 50; Psalm 8; Luke 20
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Scripture
Psalm 8
1 O LORD, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth!
Your glory is higher than the heavens.
2 You have taught children and infants
to tell of your strength,
silencing your enemies
and all who oppose you.
3 When I look at the night sky and see the work of your fingers—
the moon and the stars you set in place—
4 what are mere mortals that you should think about them,
human beings that you should care for them?
5 Yet you made them only a little lower than God
and crowned them with glory and honor.
6 You gave them charge of everything you made,
putting all things under their authority—
7 the flocks and the herds
and all the wild animals,
8 the birds in the sky, the fish in the sea,
and everything that swims the ocean currents.
9 O LORD, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth!
Observation
Spend the day at the beach and watch the sun set, or watch a storm as it moves ashore, or stay until dark and look up and just try to count the stars, and just see if you don’t walk away in amazement that the Creator God that created everything still cares about you. It is all amazing! How majestic is His Name in All the earth!
Application
O LORD, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, O LORD, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth! Your glory is higher than the heavens!
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Genesis 49; Genesis 50; Psalm 8; Luke 20
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Scripture
Psalm 8
1 O LORD, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth!
Your glory is higher than the heavens.
2 You have taught children and infants
to tell of your strength,
silencing your enemies
and all who oppose you.
3 When I look at the night sky and see the work of your fingers—
the moon and the stars you set in place—
4 what are mere mortals that you should think about them,
human beings that you should care for them?
5 Yet you made them only a little lower than God
and crowned them with glory and honor.
6 You gave them charge of everything you made,
putting all things under their authority—
7 the flocks and the herds
and all the wild animals,
8 the birds in the sky, the fish in the sea,
and everything that swims the ocean currents.
9 O LORD, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth!
Observation
Spend the day at the beach and watch the sun set, or watch a storm as it moves ashore, or stay until dark and look up and just try to count the stars, and just see if you don’t walk away in amazement that the Creator God that created everything still cares about you. It is all amazing! How majestic is His Name in All the earth!
Application
O LORD, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, O LORD, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth! Your glory is higher than the heavens!
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Monday, January 19, 2009
Temple Maintenance
Genesis 47; Genesis 48; Psalm 10; Luke 19
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Scripture
Jesus Clears the Temple
45 Then Jesus entered the Temple and began to drive out the people selling animals for sacrifices. 46 He said to them, “The Scriptures declare, ‘My Temple will be a house of prayer,’ but you have turned it into a den of thieves.”
47 After that, he taught daily in the Temple, but the leading priests, the teachers of religious law, and the other leaders of the people began planning how to kill him. 48 But they could think of nothing, because all the people hung on every word he said.
Observation
Jesus was angry with those that had turned the Temple into a place of business and he chased all the merchants out. Have you ever thought about how He did that, Jesus was only One Person? Why did the people flee when it was just One Man chasing them out? Maybe they had watched Him perform miracles right in front of their eyes and so they knew that He was more than a prophet. God hates sin.
This passage reminds me that as Christians our human bodies are God’s temples and we are commanded to keep our bodies as a living sacrifice.
"Don't you know that you yourselves are God's temple and that God's Spirit lives in you?" 1 Cor. 3:16
"Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God--this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is--his good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12:1-2
Application
I will offer my body today as a living sacrifice and I will strive to keep myself free of sin.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I pray for our new President today. Give him wisdom. Bless he and his family and help them to walk in Your ways. Protect them through all the activities of the next several days. And help me to guard my heart and keep my body clean from sin. Give me strength to say no to temptations when they come. In Jesus Name Amen.
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Genesis 47; Genesis 48; Psalm 10; Luke 19
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Scripture
Jesus Clears the Temple
45 Then Jesus entered the Temple and began to drive out the people selling animals for sacrifices. 46 He said to them, “The Scriptures declare, ‘My Temple will be a house of prayer,’ but you have turned it into a den of thieves.”
47 After that, he taught daily in the Temple, but the leading priests, the teachers of religious law, and the other leaders of the people began planning how to kill him. 48 But they could think of nothing, because all the people hung on every word he said.
Observation
Jesus was angry with those that had turned the Temple into a place of business and he chased all the merchants out. Have you ever thought about how He did that, Jesus was only One Person? Why did the people flee when it was just One Man chasing them out? Maybe they had watched Him perform miracles right in front of their eyes and so they knew that He was more than a prophet. God hates sin.
This passage reminds me that as Christians our human bodies are God’s temples and we are commanded to keep our bodies as a living sacrifice.
"Don't you know that you yourselves are God's temple and that God's Spirit lives in you?" 1 Cor. 3:16
"Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God--this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is--his good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12:1-2
Application
I will offer my body today as a living sacrifice and I will strive to keep myself free of sin.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I pray for our new President today. Give him wisdom. Bless he and his family and help them to walk in Your ways. Protect them through all the activities of the next several days. And help me to guard my heart and keep my body clean from sin. Give me strength to say no to temptations when they come. In Jesus Name Amen.
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Sunday, January 18, 2009
And He Followed Jesus, Praising God!
Genesis 44; Genesis 45; Genesis 46; Luke 18
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Scripture
Jesus Heals a Blind Beggar
35 As Jesus approached Jericho, a blind beggar was sitting beside the road. 36 When he heard the noise of a crowd going past, he asked what was happening. 37 They told him that Jesus the Nazarene was going by. 38 So he began shouting, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!”
39 “Be quiet!” the people in front yelled at him.
But he only shouted louder, “Son of David, have mercy on me!”
40 When Jesus heard him, he stopped and ordered that the man be brought to him. As the man came near, Jesus asked him, 41 “What do you want me to do for you?”
“Lord,” he said, “I want to see!”
42 And Jesus said, “All right, receive your sight! Your faith has healed you.” 43 Instantly the man could see, and he followed Jesus, praising God. And all who saw it praised God, too.
Observation
I would have loved watching this blind man as he followed Jesus praising God! I can pick up the excitement of the moment. What an unbelievable moment for this blind man and those that experienced this miracle. The crowd was telling him to “shut up” but he wasn’t about to miss his chance of being healed. I think it is interesting that he cried out, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” He didn’t say, “Jesus, have mercy on me!” He recognized that Jesus was the Messiah and it was that faith Jesus said that healed the man.
Application
The spiritually blind still need Jesus and it is our job to share with them the Good News.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, open the eyes of the spiritual blind today. I pray that someone finds Jesus today as we meet for worship. I pray that people would put their faith in You today. I pray that people would make decisions today that would draw them closer to You. Thank you for surrounding me with Your Shield of Love.
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Genesis 44; Genesis 45; Genesis 46; Luke 18
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Scripture
Jesus Heals a Blind Beggar
35 As Jesus approached Jericho, a blind beggar was sitting beside the road. 36 When he heard the noise of a crowd going past, he asked what was happening. 37 They told him that Jesus the Nazarene was going by. 38 So he began shouting, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!”
39 “Be quiet!” the people in front yelled at him.
But he only shouted louder, “Son of David, have mercy on me!”
40 When Jesus heard him, he stopped and ordered that the man be brought to him. As the man came near, Jesus asked him, 41 “What do you want me to do for you?”
“Lord,” he said, “I want to see!”
42 And Jesus said, “All right, receive your sight! Your faith has healed you.” 43 Instantly the man could see, and he followed Jesus, praising God. And all who saw it praised God, too.
Observation
I would have loved watching this blind man as he followed Jesus praising God! I can pick up the excitement of the moment. What an unbelievable moment for this blind man and those that experienced this miracle. The crowd was telling him to “shut up” but he wasn’t about to miss his chance of being healed. I think it is interesting that he cried out, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” He didn’t say, “Jesus, have mercy on me!” He recognized that Jesus was the Messiah and it was that faith Jesus said that healed the man.
Application
The spiritually blind still need Jesus and it is our job to share with them the Good News.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, open the eyes of the spiritual blind today. I pray that someone finds Jesus today as we meet for worship. I pray that people would put their faith in You today. I pray that people would make decisions today that would draw them closer to You. Thank you for surrounding me with Your Shield of Love.
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Saturday, January 17, 2009
Shielded by His Love
Genesis 42; Genesis 43; Psalm 5; Luke 17
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Scripture
Psalm 5
12 For you bless the godly, O LORD;
you surround them with your shield of love.
Observation
For the past couple of weeks I have been memorizing verses that talk about God being a shield around us. Now I know what kind of shield it is it is a shield of love. Wow! I am shielded by God’s love that is very cool!
Application
I will memorize Psalm 5:12 this week!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I can think of no better protection than to be shielded by your love. Thank you for surrounding me with Your Love.
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Genesis 42; Genesis 43; Psalm 5; Luke 17
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Scripture
Psalm 5
12 For you bless the godly, O LORD;
you surround them with your shield of love.
Observation
For the past couple of weeks I have been memorizing verses that talk about God being a shield around us. Now I know what kind of shield it is it is a shield of love. Wow! I am shielded by God’s love that is very cool!
Application
I will memorize Psalm 5:12 this week!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I can think of no better protection than to be shielded by your love. Thank you for surrounding me with Your Love.
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Friday, January 16, 2009
Hard Lessons From Hell - Learned Too Late
Genesis 39; Genesis 40; Genesis 41; Luke 16
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Scripture
Luke 16
Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus
19 Jesus said, “There was a certain rich man who was splendidly clothed in purple and fine linen and who lived each day in luxury. 20 At his gate lay a poor man named Lazarus who was covered with sores. 21 As Lazarus lay there longing for scraps from the rich man’s table, the dogs would come and lick his open sores.
22 “Finally, the poor man died and was carried by the angels to be with Abraham. The rich man also died and was buried, 23 and his soul went to the place of the dead. There, in torment, he saw Abraham in the far distance with Lazarus at his side.
24 “The rich man shouted, ‘Father Abraham, have some pity! Send Lazarus over here to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue. I am in anguish in these flames.’
25 “But Abraham said to him, ‘Son, remember that during your lifetime you had everything you wanted, and Lazarus had nothing. So now he is here being comforted, and you are in anguish. 26 And besides, there is a great chasm separating us. No one can cross over to you from here, and no one can cross over to us from there.’
27 “Then the rich man said, ‘Please, Father Abraham, at least send him to my father’s home. 28 For I have five brothers, and I want him to warn them so they don’t end up in this place of torment.’
29 “But Abraham said, ‘Moses and the prophets have warned them. Your brothers can read what they wrote.’
30 “The rich man replied, ‘No, Father Abraham! But if someone is sent to them from the dead, then they will repent of their sins and turn to God.’
31 “But Abraham said, ‘If they won’t listen to Moses and the prophets, they won’t listen even if someone rises from the dead.’”
Observation
How many lessons did this man learn in Hell only to find out that he learned them too late? How many lessons can you find in this story? Let me point out some that are pretty obvious. He learned that hell is a real place and it was hot! He was in torment. He was able to remember back on how he lived ... now with deep regret. He suddenly had concern for the spiritual well being of his family but it was too late. Every lesson he learned in hell did him no good. It was too late!
He still even in hell wanted to order Lazarus around just like he must have done folks when he was on earth. Some things never change!
Application
Hell is real and that is what makes the Gospel - Good News! I will look for opportunities today to share the Gospel.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I don’t want to have regrets when I stand before You so help me share my faith. I pray for those in my family that don’t know you. I pray that you would lead me to people that need to hear the Good News. Thank you for saving me. I don’t deserve it. You are a God of Grace.
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Genesis 39; Genesis 40; Genesis 41; Luke 16
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Scripture
Luke 16
Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus
19 Jesus said, “There was a certain rich man who was splendidly clothed in purple and fine linen and who lived each day in luxury. 20 At his gate lay a poor man named Lazarus who was covered with sores. 21 As Lazarus lay there longing for scraps from the rich man’s table, the dogs would come and lick his open sores.
22 “Finally, the poor man died and was carried by the angels to be with Abraham. The rich man also died and was buried, 23 and his soul went to the place of the dead. There, in torment, he saw Abraham in the far distance with Lazarus at his side.
24 “The rich man shouted, ‘Father Abraham, have some pity! Send Lazarus over here to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue. I am in anguish in these flames.’
25 “But Abraham said to him, ‘Son, remember that during your lifetime you had everything you wanted, and Lazarus had nothing. So now he is here being comforted, and you are in anguish. 26 And besides, there is a great chasm separating us. No one can cross over to you from here, and no one can cross over to us from there.’
27 “Then the rich man said, ‘Please, Father Abraham, at least send him to my father’s home. 28 For I have five brothers, and I want him to warn them so they don’t end up in this place of torment.’
29 “But Abraham said, ‘Moses and the prophets have warned them. Your brothers can read what they wrote.’
30 “The rich man replied, ‘No, Father Abraham! But if someone is sent to them from the dead, then they will repent of their sins and turn to God.’
31 “But Abraham said, ‘If they won’t listen to Moses and the prophets, they won’t listen even if someone rises from the dead.’”
Observation
How many lessons did this man learn in Hell only to find out that he learned them too late? How many lessons can you find in this story? Let me point out some that are pretty obvious. He learned that hell is a real place and it was hot! He was in torment. He was able to remember back on how he lived ... now with deep regret. He suddenly had concern for the spiritual well being of his family but it was too late. Every lesson he learned in hell did him no good. It was too late!
He still even in hell wanted to order Lazarus around just like he must have done folks when he was on earth. Some things never change!
Application
Hell is real and that is what makes the Gospel - Good News! I will look for opportunities today to share the Gospel.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I don’t want to have regrets when I stand before You so help me share my faith. I pray for those in my family that don’t know you. I pray that you would lead me to people that need to hear the Good News. Thank you for saving me. I don’t deserve it. You are a God of Grace.
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