Today, as we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E), we read Luke 19, Acts 2, and continue to ponder and memorize Romans 12.1-2.
One of the most challenging and visionary charges that you see in all of the writings of the Bible is found in Romans 12.1-2. I encourage you to ponder on Romans 12.1 today- I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.
Before Christ it was required of all believers to sacrifice an animal without blemish to pay for their sins. Since Christ, our sacrifice is a living one, not one of death. We are to sacrificially live our lives to please and honor the Lord. Everyday we die a death to our own selfish ways, so that we can live for Christ and do our best to honor Him in the way we live.
We are to be holy. Holy simply means set apart for a special purpose. One who has surrendered his/her life to Christ is set apart for God's purposes. When I was in physical education in elementary school, we would chose up sides and play kickball, softball, or flag football. Once we were chosen to a team, we were to play with all we had for that team. Well, if you have surrendered your life to Christ, it is because you have been chosen and you are on TEAM JESUS. Every move you make ought to represent your team and be for the benefit of your team.
We are to be acceptable. What is acceptable to God? It is nothing more or less than wholehearted effort to live out His purposes for our lives. That is what true worship is about. True worship is not about an hour or two with a bunch of others once a week. Worship is about living a life that honors and focuses on Christ. Once we have lived like that all week long, when TEAM JESUS comes together on Sunday, it is going to be an awesome time of focusing on Him with others.
How do we do all this? We are enabled by the mercies of salvation, spiritual maturity, and endurance of The Lord. It is part of the TEAM JESUS package.
May this day be marked by the personal, private, as well as the public, well noticed worship of TEAM JESUS! Be blessed and be a blessing!
Thursday, February 28, 2013
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
A Quiet, Still, Sure Work
Today, as we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E), we read Luke 18 and Joshua 14.6-15.
The opening statement in Luke 18 is telling enough. V.1- And he told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart. He continues on by telling them about a couple of accounts that speak to the power of prayer and the attitude in prayer. However, the point of the stories is the 'drive home' matter--you ought to keep on praying and never give up, never give in, never forget the source of the power.
Does that mean that your prayers will always be answered in the way you want them to be? No, of course not. It does mean that every prayer moment, every prayer request, every burden that we take to God in prayer is yet another opportunity for us to grow in The Lord. It is in those times that we are quiet, apart, and still before the Lord that He works on us--no matter what or who we are praying for.
So keep on! If you don't lean on prayer, lean on it-- you don't know what you are missing. If you are dedicated to prayer but discouraged by an answer coming too slowly or getting the answer you did not want to hear, pray on. God hears it everytime and everytime you pray it, He is working on you.
Don't lose heart, trust His heart! Keep on praying.
The opening statement in Luke 18 is telling enough. V.1- And he told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart. He continues on by telling them about a couple of accounts that speak to the power of prayer and the attitude in prayer. However, the point of the stories is the 'drive home' matter--you ought to keep on praying and never give up, never give in, never forget the source of the power.
Does that mean that your prayers will always be answered in the way you want them to be? No, of course not. It does mean that every prayer moment, every prayer request, every burden that we take to God in prayer is yet another opportunity for us to grow in The Lord. It is in those times that we are quiet, apart, and still before the Lord that He works on us--no matter what or who we are praying for.
So keep on! If you don't lean on prayer, lean on it-- you don't know what you are missing. If you are dedicated to prayer but discouraged by an answer coming too slowly or getting the answer you did not want to hear, pray on. God hears it everytime and everytime you pray it, He is working on you.
Don't lose heart, trust His heart! Keep on praying.
Tuesday, February 26, 2013
Greatness
Today, as we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E), we read Matthew 20, I Kings 3.1-15, and James 1.5.
When the sons of Zebedee's mother came and asked for them to have a special place in the Kingdom, she represented a lot more people than just her two boys. At some time or another we all have wanted to be blessed with greatness of some sort: great wealth, great health, great blessing or great opportunity. Jesus gives us the way to true greatness though when He says in
Matthew 20.26b-28- But whoever would be great among you must be your servant,
27 and whoever would be first among you must be your slave,
28 even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."
Think about it. The greatest people in your life are the ones that have blessed you, given to you, and that you have mutually served with. I think of my wife, my parents, my grandparents, my kids, my dear church family. Those are the great ones. We all have an opportunity to be great today.
Be great today--serve someone. Be blessed and be a blessing!
When the sons of Zebedee's mother came and asked for them to have a special place in the Kingdom, she represented a lot more people than just her two boys. At some time or another we all have wanted to be blessed with greatness of some sort: great wealth, great health, great blessing or great opportunity. Jesus gives us the way to true greatness though when He says in
Matthew 20.26b-28- But whoever would be great among you must be your servant,
27 and whoever would be first among you must be your slave,
28 even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."
Think about it. The greatest people in your life are the ones that have blessed you, given to you, and that you have mutually served with. I think of my wife, my parents, my grandparents, my kids, my dear church family. Those are the great ones. We all have an opportunity to be great today.
Be great today--serve someone. Be blessed and be a blessing!
Monday, February 25, 2013
Guiding the Blind
Today, as we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter, we read Mark 10, Proverbs 19.2, and begin to daily meditate and memorize Romans 12.1-2.
As Jesus left Jericho a blind beggar approached him asking for healing.
Mark 10.47- And when he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to cry out and say, "Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!
He was healed instantly.
How did he know Jesus was coming? Somebody told him.
How did he know who Jesus was? Somebody told him.
Jesus is coming and people need to know who He is and that He is coming back.
How are they going to know?
Let's do our part....today and every day.
As Jesus left Jericho a blind beggar approached him asking for healing.
Mark 10.47- And when he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to cry out and say, "Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!
He was healed instantly.
How did he know Jesus was coming? Somebody told him.
How did he know who Jesus was? Somebody told him.
Jesus is coming and people need to know who He is and that He is coming back.
How are they going to know?
Let's do our part....today and every day.
Sunday, February 24, 2013
The Possibility of the Impossible
Today, as we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E), we read Matthew 19 and Philippians 4.2-3.
Sunday is a great day to go to your church for worship, reflect on the blessing of salvation, and renew your walk with God by giving it over to Him again....whatever may be weighing on you.
Let's reflect on our salvation for a moment with Matthew 19.25-26- When the disciples heard this, they were greatly astonished, saying, "Who then can be saved?"
26 But Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible."
Has God done the impossible in you? Let's thank Him today for making the impossible possible!
Sunday is a great day to go to your church for worship, reflect on the blessing of salvation, and renew your walk with God by giving it over to Him again....whatever may be weighing on you.
Let's reflect on our salvation for a moment with Matthew 19.25-26- When the disciples heard this, they were greatly astonished, saying, "Who then can be saved?"
26 But Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible."
Has God done the impossible in you? Let's thank Him today for making the impossible possible!
Saturday, February 23, 2013
A Turning Back Moment
Today, as we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E), we read Luke 17 and Acts 17.11-15.
In Luke 17 Jesus heals ten lepers and only one comes back to give Him praise and thanks. He says in Luke 17.17 -Then Jesus answered, "Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine?"
Most of us are quick to ask God to intervene in the troubles or difficulties we face, but how good are you at coming back and giving Him praise and thanks.
Take a moment today to give Him praise for Who He is and thanks for what He has done.
As a matter of fact, take a moment every day... starting today.
In Luke 17 Jesus heals ten lepers and only one comes back to give Him praise and thanks. He says in Luke 17.17 -Then Jesus answered, "Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine?"
Most of us are quick to ask God to intervene in the troubles or difficulties we face, but how good are you at coming back and giving Him praise and thanks.
Take a moment today to give Him praise for Who He is and thanks for what He has done.
As a matter of fact, take a moment every day... starting today.
Friday, February 22, 2013
What in the World?
Today, as we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E), we read Luke 16, Matthew 6.25-34, and Philippians 4.10-19.
What is on your mind today? What worries you? Consider these passages.
Matthew 6.30- But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?
And Philippians 4.19- And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.
What in this world are you worried about? Don't worry, be blessed.
What is on your mind today? What worries you? Consider these passages.
Matthew 6.30- But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?
And Philippians 4.19- And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.
What in this world are you worried about? Don't worry, be blessed.
Thursday, February 21, 2013
Resting In Results
Today, as we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E), we read Luke 15 and Acts 17.16-34.
Do you ever get discouraged about your reluctance to share Christ openly? Do you ever stay silent because of your fear of their response? Do you feel afraid about losing a friend or straining a relationship if you share your faith?
Well, rest assured, it will not always go like you planned. Faithfully share Christ and you will be surprised at some people's receptivity and disappointed with others' disregard. Paul found his audience divided. Look at Acts 17.32 -Now when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked. But others said, "We will hear you again about this."
Do you know what he did? He kept on sharing. Always remember: you are not responsible for someone else's response, but you are responsible for their opportunity. Share Christ openly, without reluctance, and joyfully. Watch what God does and leave the results up to Him.
Share the love of Jesus today and enjoy.
Do you ever get discouraged about your reluctance to share Christ openly? Do you ever stay silent because of your fear of their response? Do you feel afraid about losing a friend or straining a relationship if you share your faith?
Well, rest assured, it will not always go like you planned. Faithfully share Christ and you will be surprised at some people's receptivity and disappointed with others' disregard. Paul found his audience divided. Look at Acts 17.32 -Now when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked. But others said, "We will hear you again about this."
Do you know what he did? He kept on sharing. Always remember: you are not responsible for someone else's response, but you are responsible for their opportunity. Share Christ openly, without reluctance, and joyfully. Watch what God does and leave the results up to Him.
Share the love of Jesus today and enjoy.
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Completing This Project
Today, as we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E), we read Luke 14, Ecclesiastes 12.1, Psalm 71, and 2 Corinthians 5.21.
Unfinished projects can be a great source of frustration. 'Half-done' works are not very glorious. Let's finish what we started....especially the things that really matter. The greatest work that we have been able to be a part of is the work that God is doing in us. He began it and He will complete it. But what about us? Have we slowed the process?
Luke 14. 29-30 challenges us not to neglect this work in progress - Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, all who see it begin to mock him, saying, 'This man began to build and was not able to finish.'
Let's do our part today to let God do whatever He wants in our lives without resistance today.
Unfinished projects can be a great source of frustration. 'Half-done' works are not very glorious. Let's finish what we started....especially the things that really matter. The greatest work that we have been able to be a part of is the work that God is doing in us. He began it and He will complete it. But what about us? Have we slowed the process?
Luke 14. 29-30 challenges us not to neglect this work in progress - Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, all who see it begin to mock him, saying, 'This man began to build and was not able to finish.'
Let's do our part today to let God do whatever He wants in our lives without resistance today.
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
An Amazing Day
Today, as we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E),we read Luke 13 and Acts 16.6-10.
This morning I celebrate the healing power of the Lord. Luke 13. 11-13 gives a great example- And there was a woman who had had a disabling spirit for eighteen years. She was bent over and could not fully straighten herself.
12 When Jesus saw her, he called her over and said to her, "Woman, you are freed from your disability."
13 And he laid his hands on her, and immediately she was made straight, and she glorified God.
It is amazing to me that at His words, she was made well. It amazed the people of that day as well. God still has such power. I realize that He often does not work in that way, but we sure serve a God that can. Not only can He physically heal, but He can heal broken lives, wayward souls, and shattered dreams. He can change life courses, take the lead on life's path, and redirect one's eternity. He can make the hardened soft again, the fallow fertile, and the closed open. He can bring clarity to the foggy, renewal to the tired, and relief to the overwhelmed. He can see the heart, change the mind, and pierce the soul. He can see the person, observe the day, and work in both in a mighty way....and I pray He will in you today.
This morning I celebrate the healing power of the Lord. Luke 13. 11-13 gives a great example- And there was a woman who had had a disabling spirit for eighteen years. She was bent over and could not fully straighten herself.
12 When Jesus saw her, he called her over and said to her, "Woman, you are freed from your disability."
13 And he laid his hands on her, and immediately she was made straight, and she glorified God.
It is amazing to me that at His words, she was made well. It amazed the people of that day as well. God still has such power. I realize that He often does not work in that way, but we sure serve a God that can. Not only can He physically heal, but He can heal broken lives, wayward souls, and shattered dreams. He can change life courses, take the lead on life's path, and redirect one's eternity. He can make the hardened soft again, the fallow fertile, and the closed open. He can bring clarity to the foggy, renewal to the tired, and relief to the overwhelmed. He can see the heart, change the mind, and pierce the soul. He can see the person, observe the day, and work in both in a mighty way....and I pray He will in you today.
Monday, February 18, 2013
My Precious
Today, as we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E), we read Luke 12 and Philippians 3. 7-14.
Yesterday, I had a conversation that reminded me of a discussion that I have had with my daughter a few times about the good ol' days. I grew about a mile and a half from a K-mart. They sold football and baseball cards. When I was ages 9 to 12, my cards were a big deal to me. I remember the excitement that Iwould get when I had a dollar. The football cards would come in a dollar jumbo pack. The pack had three stacks in a clear wrapper. Therefore, I could see the three top cards and the three bottom cards before I bought them. I would walk up to K-mart, go through the whole bin of cards (looking for the best pack), pay the cashier, and tear into the pack before leaving the parking lot. I knew what I had before I got out of the parking lot and I, either celebrated or whimpered all the way home. My cards were a treasure to me.
What is precious to you? What will you go out of your way for? Make sure what is most precious to you will not fade away.
Jesus put it this way in Luke 12.33-34- Provide yourselves with moneybags that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys.
34 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
Yesterday, I had a conversation that reminded me of a discussion that I have had with my daughter a few times about the good ol' days. I grew about a mile and a half from a K-mart. They sold football and baseball cards. When I was ages 9 to 12, my cards were a big deal to me. I remember the excitement that Iwould get when I had a dollar. The football cards would come in a dollar jumbo pack. The pack had three stacks in a clear wrapper. Therefore, I could see the three top cards and the three bottom cards before I bought them. I would walk up to K-mart, go through the whole bin of cards (looking for the best pack), pay the cashier, and tear into the pack before leaving the parking lot. I knew what I had before I got out of the parking lot and I, either celebrated or whimpered all the way home. My cards were a treasure to me.
What is precious to you? What will you go out of your way for? Make sure what is most precious to you will not fade away.
Jesus put it this way in Luke 12.33-34- Provide yourselves with moneybags that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys.
34 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
Sunday, February 17, 2013
Today's Opportunity
Today, as we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E), we read Luke 11 and Ephsians 4.14-16.
Ephesians 4.15 speaks to our opportunity today. Paul says - Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ.
Let's worship together today and worship together.
Ephesians 4.15 speaks to our opportunity today. Paul says - Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ.
Let's worship together today and worship together.
Saturday, February 16, 2013
Today's Thought
Today, as we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E), we read Luke 10 and I Corinthians 12.
Luke 10 contains the account of the Good Samaritan. Luke 10.33 is a critical passage -But a Samaritan, as he journeyed, came to where he was, and when he saw him, he had compassion.
As opportunity crosses our path today, let's show compassion as well.
Luke 10 contains the account of the Good Samaritan. Luke 10.33 is a critical passage -But a Samaritan, as he journeyed, came to where he was, and when he saw him, he had compassion.
As opportunity crosses our path today, let's show compassion as well.
Friday, February 15, 2013
Every Day
Today, as we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E), we read John 10 and Lamentations 3.22-23.
Enjoy Lamentations 3.22-23- The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.
As fresh as the morning sunrise is, so are the merciful blessings of The Lord everyday. That is right...EVERYDAY!!!!!
Enjoy that celebration today.....and every day.
Enjoy Lamentations 3.22-23- The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.
As fresh as the morning sunrise is, so are the merciful blessings of The Lord everyday. That is right...EVERYDAY!!!!!
Enjoy that celebration today.....and every day.
Thursday, February 14, 2013
This I Know
Today, as we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E), we read John 9 and Romans 10.13-15.
In John 9 a blind man is healed by Jesus and the Pharisees are trying to somehow corner Jesus by investigating this life-changing miracle. They interrogate the man and ask questions he cannot answer. In his response he says in John 9.25- He answered, "Whether he is a sinner I do not know. One thing I do know, that though I was blind, now I see."
I love that because you share Christ from where you are. You should always be absorbing more Christ knowledge in your life, but don't wait to share Him with others. Share what you know. This man knew his life had changed, so that is what he shared.
If Christ has opened your eyes and now you 'see' like you never could before, share it with folks. Tell'em about it....and do it today!
In John 9 a blind man is healed by Jesus and the Pharisees are trying to somehow corner Jesus by investigating this life-changing miracle. They interrogate the man and ask questions he cannot answer. In his response he says in John 9.25- He answered, "Whether he is a sinner I do not know. One thing I do know, that though I was blind, now I see."
I love that because you share Christ from where you are. You should always be absorbing more Christ knowledge in your life, but don't wait to share Him with others. Share what you know. This man knew his life had changed, so that is what he shared.
If Christ has opened your eyes and now you 'see' like you never could before, share it with folks. Tell'em about it....and do it today!
Wednesday, February 13, 2013
Dropping Stones
Today, as we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E), we read John 8, Luke 18.15-17, and Matthew 10.45.
In John 8 Jesus is confronted with a woman who was caught in an adulterous act. The man was not dragged in but the woman sure was. Isn't that interesting? Those who brought her in wanted to see how Jesus would respond: would He let her go and condone sin or would he condemn the sin and let her execution go forth? He did neither. He said that the sinless one ought to throw the first stone. Every man held his rock. He then wrote in the sand. What did he write? Don't you wish you knew? Whatever it was caused the men to drop their stones and go home. He then said, as recorded in John 8.10-11- Jesus stood up and said to her, "Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?"
11 She said, "No one, Lord." And Jesus said, "Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on sin no more."
There are two common misconceptions about this passage that I want to address. The first one that I have heard often is: we have no right to judge. Normally when someone says that he means that we do not have a right to judge what sin is. We don't have to though. God already has. We don't have a right to condemn, but we need to know right from wrong. Just remember that we will be judged on the same standard.
The other misconception is that somehow this passage states that we are not to confront sin. We are just to leave those matters alone when we see it ravaging through someone's life. That is not true either. Jesus told the lady to go and sin no more. For true forgiveness to come, there has to be a change.
This passage also reminds us that we can be forgiven of whatever sin and that after we confess it and are forgiven, we are to walk away from it.
Walk away from sin today and drop your stones as you go.
In John 8 Jesus is confronted with a woman who was caught in an adulterous act. The man was not dragged in but the woman sure was. Isn't that interesting? Those who brought her in wanted to see how Jesus would respond: would He let her go and condone sin or would he condemn the sin and let her execution go forth? He did neither. He said that the sinless one ought to throw the first stone. Every man held his rock. He then wrote in the sand. What did he write? Don't you wish you knew? Whatever it was caused the men to drop their stones and go home. He then said, as recorded in John 8.10-11- Jesus stood up and said to her, "Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?"
11 She said, "No one, Lord." And Jesus said, "Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on sin no more."
There are two common misconceptions about this passage that I want to address. The first one that I have heard often is: we have no right to judge. Normally when someone says that he means that we do not have a right to judge what sin is. We don't have to though. God already has. We don't have a right to condemn, but we need to know right from wrong. Just remember that we will be judged on the same standard.
The other misconception is that somehow this passage states that we are not to confront sin. We are just to leave those matters alone when we see it ravaging through someone's life. That is not true either. Jesus told the lady to go and sin no more. For true forgiveness to come, there has to be a change.
This passage also reminds us that we can be forgiven of whatever sin and that after we confess it and are forgiven, we are to walk away from it.
Walk away from sin today and drop your stones as you go.
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
Authoritative Talk
Today, as we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E), we read John 7 and Proverbs 3.5-6.
In John 7 Jesus is teaching and the Jews are amazed at how He could teach with such authority and wisdom. In his reply He states in John 7.18- The one who speaks on his own authority seeks his own glory; but the one who seeks the glory of him who sent him is true, and in him there is no falsehood.
The simple question I ask you and me today is this: When we speak, is the conversation that comes from our mouths based on our authority or on the Lord's authority? The question is answered simply in the content that we share. Is it God's truth or just our thoughts? The more we focus on His Truth in thought and conversation, the better off we will be.
Focus your mind on Him and His today and have a great day.
In John 7 Jesus is teaching and the Jews are amazed at how He could teach with such authority and wisdom. In his reply He states in John 7.18- The one who speaks on his own authority seeks his own glory; but the one who seeks the glory of him who sent him is true, and in him there is no falsehood.
The simple question I ask you and me today is this: When we speak, is the conversation that comes from our mouths based on our authority or on the Lord's authority? The question is answered simply in the content that we share. Is it God's truth or just our thoughts? The more we focus on His Truth in thought and conversation, the better off we will be.
Focus your mind on Him and His today and have a great day.
Monday, February 11, 2013
Wholehearted Service
Today, as we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E), we read Matthew 18 and 2 Chronicles 25.
2 Chronicles 25.1-2- Amaziah was twenty-five years old when he began to reign, and he reigned twenty-nine years in Jerusalem. His mother's name was Jehoaddan of Jerusalem.
2 And he did what was right in the eyes of the LORD, yet not with a whole heart.
It was not that he did not do some things right, but his motives were mixed, therefore his life was hampered by a lack of dedication to the Lord. He went after idols that he did not need to entertain. He lost battles that he did not have to lose. He struggled and lost because his heart was not 100% sold on doing the Lord's Will, following a life plan that pleased the Lord.
How many 'idols' have you served along the way that got you off course? How many battles have you lost because you did not follow God's plan or strategy in a decisive time in your life?
Let's serve the Lord with all of our heart today and let nothing get in the way.
2 Chronicles 25.1-2- Amaziah was twenty-five years old when he began to reign, and he reigned twenty-nine years in Jerusalem. His mother's name was Jehoaddan of Jerusalem.
2 And he did what was right in the eyes of the LORD, yet not with a whole heart.
It was not that he did not do some things right, but his motives were mixed, therefore his life was hampered by a lack of dedication to the Lord. He went after idols that he did not need to entertain. He lost battles that he did not have to lose. He struggled and lost because his heart was not 100% sold on doing the Lord's Will, following a life plan that pleased the Lord.
How many 'idols' have you served along the way that got you off course? How many battles have you lost because you did not follow God's plan or strategy in a decisive time in your life?
Let's serve the Lord with all of our heart today and let nothing get in the way.
Sunday, February 10, 2013
Have You Got A Prayer?
Today, as we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E), we read Mark 9 and Ephesians 4.7-13.
In Mark 9 Jesus is helping a boy tormented by a demon. The disciples had tried to cast it out, but were unable. Jesus asked them two questions before He addressed the problem. Two questions that made me wonder how many times He has asked us the same questions. It is found in
Mark 9.19- And he answered them, "O faithless generation, how long am I to be with you? How long am I to bear with you? ....
The only time I see Christ limited in Scripture is when the people who believe in Him have doubts and faith struggles. Do you believe your lack of faith ever frustrates the Lord? How limited is God in your life? Has a lack of faith slowed the Lord from moving mightily in you? In your church?
Jesus heals the boy cleansing him from the demon and the disciples ask Him afterwards why they were not successful themselves in exorcising the demon. Jesus answered them in v. 29- And he said to them, "This kind cannot be driven out by anything but prayer."
Maybe our best investment is bowing our head before the One that can do anything in our lives and making sure nothing in us is slowing Him.
Do that today, be blessed, and be a blessing.
In Mark 9 Jesus is helping a boy tormented by a demon. The disciples had tried to cast it out, but were unable. Jesus asked them two questions before He addressed the problem. Two questions that made me wonder how many times He has asked us the same questions. It is found in
Mark 9.19- And he answered them, "O faithless generation, how long am I to be with you? How long am I to bear with you? ....
The only time I see Christ limited in Scripture is when the people who believe in Him have doubts and faith struggles. Do you believe your lack of faith ever frustrates the Lord? How limited is God in your life? Has a lack of faith slowed the Lord from moving mightily in you? In your church?
Jesus heals the boy cleansing him from the demon and the disciples ask Him afterwards why they were not successful themselves in exorcising the demon. Jesus answered them in v. 29- And he said to them, "This kind cannot be driven out by anything but prayer."
Maybe our best investment is bowing our head before the One that can do anything in our lives and making sure nothing in us is slowing Him.
Do that today, be blessed, and be a blessing.
Saturday, February 9, 2013
Little Is Much....
Today, as we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E), we read Matthew 17, 10.42, and Mark 9.41.
In Matthew 10.42 Jesus states -And whoever gives one of these little ones even a cup of cold water because he is a disciple, truly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward.
Sounds like it does not take much....just an openness to serve.....an observing eye.....and a reaching hand.
I can do that....you can do that...let's do that....today.
In Matthew 10.42 Jesus states -And whoever gives one of these little ones even a cup of cold water because he is a disciple, truly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward.
Sounds like it does not take much....just an openness to serve.....an observing eye.....and a reaching hand.
I can do that....you can do that...let's do that....today.
Friday, February 8, 2013
Today's Agenda
Today, as we Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E), we read Mark 8 and Psalm 118.
I want to encourage you today to be a follower of Christ. Live today to follow the Lord's path in all your decisions, conversations, thought patterns, and actions. How do you do that properly?
Mark 8.34 advises us- And calling the crowd to him with his disciples, he said to them, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me."
Think of these three as today's formula. God has given this to you for today:
Deny yourself- It is not about you. It is about serving God while serving others. Make it an agenda for today.
Take up your cross- Is your attitude going to make everything easy today? Is everyone going to be cordial? No. For the sake of Christ and your witness, bear the burden, take what thy dish out and shine right through it.
Follow me- When facing the big hill, the little engine said, I think I can! I think I can! In the same way, real quietly, under your breath, and in your heart say- Help me, Lord! I am following you today.
I pray that this day holds blessed surprises for you as you walk with Him.
I want to encourage you today to be a follower of Christ. Live today to follow the Lord's path in all your decisions, conversations, thought patterns, and actions. How do you do that properly?
Mark 8.34 advises us- And calling the crowd to him with his disciples, he said to them, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me."
Think of these three as today's formula. God has given this to you for today:
Deny yourself- It is not about you. It is about serving God while serving others. Make it an agenda for today.
Take up your cross- Is your attitude going to make everything easy today? Is everyone going to be cordial? No. For the sake of Christ and your witness, bear the burden, take what thy dish out and shine right through it.
Follow me- When facing the big hill, the little engine said, I think I can! I think I can! In the same way, real quietly, under your breath, and in your heart say- Help me, Lord! I am following you today.
I pray that this day holds blessed surprises for you as you walk with Him.
Thursday, February 7, 2013
What About Your Worries?
Today, as we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E), we read Matthew 16, Luke 16.19-31, and Philippians 4.6-7.
What are you worried about today?
What has you keyed up?
What is bugging you?
What are you going to do about it?
Can the apostle Paul and I make a suggestion?
Actually, it is not a suggestion. It is Biblical counsel, and it is not for me, but the Lord.
Philippians 4.6-do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.
Spend time taking it to Him today. He already knows about it and He will soothe your soul.
Have a blessed day!
What are you worried about today?
What has you keyed up?
What is bugging you?
What are you going to do about it?
Can the apostle Paul and I make a suggestion?
Actually, it is not a suggestion. It is Biblical counsel, and it is not for me, but the Lord.
Philippians 4.6-do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.
Spend time taking it to Him today. He already knows about it and He will soothe your soul.
Have a blessed day!
Wednesday, February 6, 2013
Building Up Words
Today, as we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E), we read Mark 7 and Ephesians 4.29-32.
Our second passage today gives us a great reminder to set our mind toward first thing this morning. Ephesians 4.29- Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.
Oh, how many fires will the tongue start today?! Let it be none for our tongues. Look for ways today to build up others and not tear them down. You will surely stand out in our day and time!
Shine for Jesus in the words you say today!
Our second passage today gives us a great reminder to set our mind toward first thing this morning. Ephesians 4.29- Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.
Oh, how many fires will the tongue start today?! Let it be none for our tongues. Look for ways today to build up others and not tear them down. You will surely stand out in our day and time!
Shine for Jesus in the words you say today!
Tuesday, February 5, 2013
How To Pray For Others
Do you ever wonder how to pray for others? We know when they are in poor health how to pray. We know when they may be in danger how to pray. We know when they may not know the Lord how to pray.
What about when nothing is wrong, one is healthy and saved by the grace of God?
How do you pray then?
Pray that they know what they have when they have Jesus and that they beam for Him.
As the apostle Paul put it in
Ephesians 3.14-19 -14 For this reason I bow my knees before the Father,
15 from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named,
16 that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being,
17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith-that you, being rooted and grounded in love,
18 may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth,
19 and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.
Pray a prayer like that for someone today....even yourself.
What about when nothing is wrong, one is healthy and saved by the grace of God?
How do you pray then?
Pray that they know what they have when they have Jesus and that they beam for Him.
As the apostle Paul put it in
Ephesians 3.14-19 -14 For this reason I bow my knees before the Father,
15 from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named,
16 that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being,
17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith-that you, being rooted and grounded in love,
18 may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth,
19 and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.
Pray a prayer like that for someone today....even yourself.
Monday, February 4, 2013
Heirs of Victory
Today, as we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E), we read John 6 and Galatains 4.4-7 and consider our salvation as adoption.
Last night we saw the Baltimore Ravens win the Super Bowl and gain a title, a ring, and the status of being world champs.
Have you thought about what you win when you get Christ? We are reminded in
Galatians 4.7- So you are no longer a slave, but a son, and if a son, then an heir through God.
If I tried to share all the things it means to be an heir of Christ, my description would be drastically inadequate. Instead, let's just ponder today on what we have in Christ and give Him praise all day long.
Last night we saw the Baltimore Ravens win the Super Bowl and gain a title, a ring, and the status of being world champs.
Have you thought about what you win when you get Christ? We are reminded in
Galatians 4.7- So you are no longer a slave, but a son, and if a son, then an heir through God.
If I tried to share all the things it means to be an heir of Christ, my description would be drastically inadequate. Instead, let's just ponder today on what we have in Christ and give Him praise all day long.
Sunday, February 3, 2013
A Souper Opportunity
Today, as we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E), we read Mark 6, I Corinthians 11.18, James 4.1, and continue reviewing Romans 1.16.
I am excited about today. Today is our Souper Bowl Winter Bible Study Sunday. We are led this morning by Steve Mooneyham, AMD of the Gulf Coast Baptist Association, and he is leading us through the Passion Week of Christ. After today I will be preaching on the seven last statements of Christ on the cross. That will usher us into a Resurrrection Celebratiomon Easter Sunday morning. It is all about the cross of Christ from here till Easter and the cross is all about the Gospel. As Paul put it in Romans 1.16- For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.
Today is super, but I can honestly say, even with my love for football, this morning's annual opportunity for a unique worship and fellowship experience is what makes it so great. Hope to see you there!
I am excited about today. Today is our Souper Bowl Winter Bible Study Sunday. We are led this morning by Steve Mooneyham, AMD of the Gulf Coast Baptist Association, and he is leading us through the Passion Week of Christ. After today I will be preaching on the seven last statements of Christ on the cross. That will usher us into a Resurrrection Celebratiomon Easter Sunday morning. It is all about the cross of Christ from here till Easter and the cross is all about the Gospel. As Paul put it in Romans 1.16- For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.
Today is super, but I can honestly say, even with my love for football, this morning's annual opportunity for a unique worship and fellowship experience is what makes it so great. Hope to see you there!
Saturday, February 2, 2013
Facing the Cross
Today, as we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E), we read Luke 9 and Philippians 2.25-30.
I found something years ago that I haven't got over and I was refreshed with it this morning. It is found in Luke 9.53- But the people did not receive him, because his face was set toward Jerusalem.
It can also be state that he 'set His face toward Jerusalem.'
What in Jerusalem caused Him to look ahead and prepare His course of action toward it? Well, it was the cross. I believe there three times when Christ became more and more narrowly focused on dying on the cross to give us redemption.
The first time was during the temptations in the desert. What the devil tried to do there, people tried to do until he went to the cross. People wanted. Him focused on something else besides the cross. Maybe it was feeding and providing social needs for people. Maybe it was amazing people with miraculous acts. Maybe it was being the conqueror of the world. Whatever they wanted, the devil had already tempted and He was never deterred by them. He had already dealt with such temptations in the desert.
The next time is this passage. From here on out, He is set toward Jerusalem.
Lastly, it was in the garden, when He prayed on the eve of His death.
Three significant times for Christ and each time zooming in closer on the cross.
How 'zoomed in' are you on the cross? This world will try to deter you...don't you let it.
Are you living in the 'light' of the cross, while also living in the 'shadow' of the cross?
Our hope, our focus, our message, our guiding light is found in the cross.
Live today with your face set upon it!
I found something years ago that I haven't got over and I was refreshed with it this morning. It is found in Luke 9.53- But the people did not receive him, because his face was set toward Jerusalem.
It can also be state that he 'set His face toward Jerusalem.'
What in Jerusalem caused Him to look ahead and prepare His course of action toward it? Well, it was the cross. I believe there three times when Christ became more and more narrowly focused on dying on the cross to give us redemption.
The first time was during the temptations in the desert. What the devil tried to do there, people tried to do until he went to the cross. People wanted. Him focused on something else besides the cross. Maybe it was feeding and providing social needs for people. Maybe it was amazing people with miraculous acts. Maybe it was being the conqueror of the world. Whatever they wanted, the devil had already tempted and He was never deterred by them. He had already dealt with such temptations in the desert.
The next time is this passage. From here on out, He is set toward Jerusalem.
Lastly, it was in the garden, when He prayed on the eve of His death.
Three significant times for Christ and each time zooming in closer on the cross.
How 'zoomed in' are you on the cross? This world will try to deter you...don't you let it.
Are you living in the 'light' of the cross, while also living in the 'shadow' of the cross?
Our hope, our focus, our message, our guiding light is found in the cross.
Live today with your face set upon it!
Friday, February 1, 2013
Pleasure Over Pride
Today, as we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E), we read Matthew 14 and 2 Corinthians 9.6-15 and are challenged to be cheerful, even hilarious, givers.
Pride can cause a mess. It did for Herod. In an effort to please his guests, live up to his big, prideful promises, and satisfy others, he had John the Baptist killed. He did not even want him to die!
Notice Matthew 14.9- And the king was sorry, but because of his oaths and his guests he commanded it to be given.
He was amazed by John, but convicted by his words. Pride got him in a mess.
Pride will get us in a mess as well. Let's worry about only pleasing one today- the Lord. You will be surprised by the contentment that it brings.
Pride can cause a mess. It did for Herod. In an effort to please his guests, live up to his big, prideful promises, and satisfy others, he had John the Baptist killed. He did not even want him to die!
Notice Matthew 14.9- And the king was sorry, but because of his oaths and his guests he commanded it to be given.
He was amazed by John, but convicted by his words. Pride got him in a mess.
Pride will get us in a mess as well. Let's worry about only pleasing one today- the Lord. You will be surprised by the contentment that it brings.
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