Today we read Proverbs 16-18 and Romans 12.
Proverbs 17.22- A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.
The question today is: Are you going to be a healing balm to those that are uplifted by you or are you going to dry folks out by the things that you say to them, leaving them parched?
If you consider that in your every conversation today, you will change lives...hopefully for the better.
Let God use you in others' lives today.
Friday, May 31, 2013
Thursday, May 30, 2013
New York State of Mind
Today we read Proverbs 13-15 and Romans 11.
Our tour guide in New York City last weekend was Matt Koke. He was excellent and led us on a great tour. One comment that he made to us in preparation has made me stop and ponder many times. He said, "People say New Yorkers are rude. They are not. They are kind and welcoming. The people that are rude are the tourists because they believe that they ought to be rude in order to get by in New York because they think everyone else will be. When you meet rude people, it is the tourists, not the residents." Interestingly enough, I found what he said to be true. New Yorkers are in a hurry, but so am I usually. I like that kind of pace.
I thought about that false shield of tourist rudeness when I read Proverbs 15.1-
A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
Our tour guide in New York City last weekend was Matt Koke. He was excellent and led us on a great tour. One comment that he made to us in preparation has made me stop and ponder many times. He said, "People say New Yorkers are rude. They are not. They are kind and welcoming. The people that are rude are the tourists because they believe that they ought to be rude in order to get by in New York because they think everyone else will be. When you meet rude people, it is the tourists, not the residents." Interestingly enough, I found what he said to be true. New Yorkers are in a hurry, but so am I usually. I like that kind of pace.
I thought about that false shield of tourist rudeness when I read Proverbs 15.1-
A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
Along the same line, verse 4- A gentle tongue is a tree of life, but perverseness in it breaks the spirit.
They say- Speak lightly and carry a big stick. Let's, instead, speak lightly and leave our big sticks in the building out back.
Wednesday, May 29, 2013
A Fresh Splash
Today we read Proverbs 10-12 and Romans 10.
I love peace lilies, because it is hard to kill them. You can starve them out from water, but when you water it, it will quickly perk up and look better. Some people have been starved out, have not been appreciated, and become discouraged. Proverbs 11.25 told me this morning that a fresh splash of an encouraging word will do most folks a lot of good:
Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered.
Let's encourage each other today. We will be enriched and strengthened by it as well.
I love peace lilies, because it is hard to kill them. You can starve them out from water, but when you water it, it will quickly perk up and look better. Some people have been starved out, have not been appreciated, and become discouraged. Proverbs 11.25 told me this morning that a fresh splash of an encouraging word will do most folks a lot of good:
Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered.
Let's encourage each other today. We will be enriched and strengthened by it as well.
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
Just Giving Opportunities
Today we read Proverbs 7-9 and Romans 9.
Romans 9.33- “Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offense;
and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame.”
Romans 9.33- “Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offense;
and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame.”
I have often said that when you are presented the message of Christ, you have to do something with it. You either build your life upon it or you stumble over it. It is the job of the Christian to present the opportunity, which can also be called a belief crisis. It is through such a crisis, that one makes a life-determining decision. They may accept Christ as their Savior or they may reject Him. Never underestimate the power of the Holy Spirit, the work that God has done before you shared with someone or the work that He will do after you share with someone. It is not our job to understand everything about the depths of the ways of God. It is our job to believe what we do understand, live our lives in response of what we understand, and share the message that we understand. Lives will be changed when we do.
Remember: It is not our job to 'get one saved'. It is our job to give one the opportunity to come to Christ by offering to them the salvation plan which is free to all. What they do with such an opportunity is not your responsibility. Giving them such an opportunity is.
Let's do it today!
Sunday, May 26, 2013
Bone Refreshment
Today we read Proverbs 1-3 and Romans 7.
Waking up in Manhattan for the second day, I am thoroughly enjoying the Big Apple. Yesterday we went to what must be the largest church in the world- the Cathedral of St. John the Divine. You can fit the Statue of Liberty in it if you lay her own her side. It was remarkable architecture, but, as a pastor, I kept thinking about what kind of capital stewardship program you have to have to raise that kind of money! We then went to Rockefeller Plaza and Madison Avenue and spent the afternoon shopping in the some of the most elite stores in the world. We topped off the day by eating at Times Square and watching Annie on Broadway at the Palace Theatre. This is the kind of stuff that Dawn and Abby dream of. Today we see the Statue of Liberty.
This kind of visit is overwhelming, exciting, and somewhat exhausting. When I read Proverbs 3.7, it struck a chord in me. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord, and turn away from evil.
8 It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones.
Waking up in Manhattan for the second day, I am thoroughly enjoying the Big Apple. Yesterday we went to what must be the largest church in the world- the Cathedral of St. John the Divine. You can fit the Statue of Liberty in it if you lay her own her side. It was remarkable architecture, but, as a pastor, I kept thinking about what kind of capital stewardship program you have to have to raise that kind of money! We then went to Rockefeller Plaza and Madison Avenue and spent the afternoon shopping in the some of the most elite stores in the world. We topped off the day by eating at Times Square and watching Annie on Broadway at the Palace Theatre. This is the kind of stuff that Dawn and Abby dream of. Today we see the Statue of Liberty.
This kind of visit is overwhelming, exciting, and somewhat exhausting. When I read Proverbs 3.7, it struck a chord in me. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord, and turn away from evil.
8 It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones.
When you get spiritual exhausted, the best rest... the only rest... that you can find is found when you look to the Lord.
Looking to Jesus will bring you relief... He will refresh your bones! Be refreshed today!
Saturday, May 25, 2013
Dead To Me!
Today we read 1 Kings 10 & 11, 2 Chronicles 9, and Romans 6.
I have a show on television that I thoroughly enjoy watching, Shark Tank. Shark Tank is a reality show with a panel of five business moguls that are millionaires and billionaires looking to invest their money in an entrepreneural, good idea. Mark Cuban, the controversial Dallas Mavericks owner is usually there, along with the creator of the clothing line, FUBU, a software guy, a real estate developer, and Kevin O'Leary. Kevin was unemployed when he founded Reader Rabbit software in his basement and sold it for billions. He calls himself, Mr. Wonderful, but he is one of the rudest, most ruthless, but truthful critics, you will ever hear. Kevin is only concerned with one thing- making money. After someone has invested their life savings in gaining a patent on a good idea and now begs for an investor to allow production to begin or continue, Kevin will say, "Do your money a favor, let it go. You have held it in prison for too long." Admittedly, money means way to much to Kevin, but he usually gives some good advice. He normally then bows his money out, so they can invest with someone else on the panel. When it really gets bad, Kevin will say, "You are dead to me!" That is a rough way of saying that he will not invest his money in an idea. He will then ridicule other investors considering getting in.
As I read Romans 6.10-11 today, I thought of Kevin's favorite phrase- For the death he (Christ) died he died to sin, once for all, but the life he lives he lives to God. 11 So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus.
If we will speak to sinful habits of the heart, the mind, the tongue, and the body today and everyday and say, "Sin, you are dead to me!" Or, more importantly, call upon the Lord and ask Him to help us be stronger against our sinful habits, we will be much better off.
Don't fall for the devil's lies today. Be dead to sin and alive in Christ! Have a great day!
I have a show on television that I thoroughly enjoy watching, Shark Tank. Shark Tank is a reality show with a panel of five business moguls that are millionaires and billionaires looking to invest their money in an entrepreneural, good idea. Mark Cuban, the controversial Dallas Mavericks owner is usually there, along with the creator of the clothing line, FUBU, a software guy, a real estate developer, and Kevin O'Leary. Kevin was unemployed when he founded Reader Rabbit software in his basement and sold it for billions. He calls himself, Mr. Wonderful, but he is one of the rudest, most ruthless, but truthful critics, you will ever hear. Kevin is only concerned with one thing- making money. After someone has invested their life savings in gaining a patent on a good idea and now begs for an investor to allow production to begin or continue, Kevin will say, "Do your money a favor, let it go. You have held it in prison for too long." Admittedly, money means way to much to Kevin, but he usually gives some good advice. He normally then bows his money out, so they can invest with someone else on the panel. When it really gets bad, Kevin will say, "You are dead to me!" That is a rough way of saying that he will not invest his money in an idea. He will then ridicule other investors considering getting in.
As I read Romans 6.10-11 today, I thought of Kevin's favorite phrase- For the death he (Christ) died he died to sin, once for all, but the life he lives he lives to God. 11 So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus.
If we will speak to sinful habits of the heart, the mind, the tongue, and the body today and everyday and say, "Sin, you are dead to me!" Or, more importantly, call upon the Lord and ask Him to help us be stronger against our sinful habits, we will be much better off.
Don't fall for the devil's lies today. Be dead to sin and alive in Christ! Have a great day!
Friday, May 24, 2013
Paid Access
Today we read 1 Kings 9, 2 Chronicles 8, Psalm 136, and Romans 5.
In just a bit, I will print my boarding pass in order to be able to get on the plane. I have paid a fare and that will allow me to have access.
When I land, I will have the opportunity to enjoy many of the highlights of a great city in America and in the world, New York City. I have paid the fare and that has given me access.
This trip comes with a great cost and with much planning and we are excited! However, as I read this morning, my mind went to a much greater access that I could not buy for myself. I found it in
Romans 5.2- Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God.
I rejoice in the opporutnity to go today. I rejoice that much more in my opportunity to enjoy access to the Father.
What a sweet reflection this early morning! Have a great day!
In just a bit, I will print my boarding pass in order to be able to get on the plane. I have paid a fare and that will allow me to have access.
When I land, I will have the opportunity to enjoy many of the highlights of a great city in America and in the world, New York City. I have paid the fare and that has given me access.
This trip comes with a great cost and with much planning and we are excited! However, as I read this morning, my mind went to a much greater access that I could not buy for myself. I found it in
Romans 5.2- Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God.
I rejoice in the opporutnity to go today. I rejoice that much more in my opportunity to enjoy access to the Father.
What a sweet reflection this early morning! Have a great day!
Thursday, May 23, 2013
The Preceding Prayer
Today we read 2 Chronicles 6 & 7, Psalm 135, and Romans 4.
2 Chronicles 7.14 is one of the most popularly used verses in all of the Bible. When Christians become distressed about the state of their land, they often speak of this prayer. It is a powerful verse where God promises that if we will turn to Him, He will intervene. Have you ever noticed the preceding prayer in 2 Chronicles 6 where Solomon asked the Lord to make such a promise to His People? It was the prayers of Solomon turning to the Lord that gave him the clear message from God about the power of prayer. 2 Chronicles 7.12- Then the Lord appeared to Solomon in the night and said to him: “I have heard your prayer and have chosen this place for myself as a house of sacrifice.
Solomon's clear message came as a response to his earlier prayer. That is even more proof that God will do what He says He will do in 2 Chronicles 7.14.
It just excites me today to know that Solomon received such a clear, powerful message from God after he called on God to pray. It was in prayer that Solomon learned how to pray.
Let's take it all to Him today and learn as He speaks back into our hearts.
2 Chronicles 7.14 is one of the most popularly used verses in all of the Bible. When Christians become distressed about the state of their land, they often speak of this prayer. It is a powerful verse where God promises that if we will turn to Him, He will intervene. Have you ever noticed the preceding prayer in 2 Chronicles 6 where Solomon asked the Lord to make such a promise to His People? It was the prayers of Solomon turning to the Lord that gave him the clear message from God about the power of prayer. 2 Chronicles 7.12- Then the Lord appeared to Solomon in the night and said to him: “I have heard your prayer and have chosen this place for myself as a house of sacrifice.
Solomon's clear message came as a response to his earlier prayer. That is even more proof that God will do what He says He will do in 2 Chronicles 7.14.
It just excites me today to know that Solomon received such a clear, powerful message from God after he called on God to pray. It was in prayer that Solomon learned how to pray.
Let's take it all to Him today and learn as He speaks back into our hearts.
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
No Distinction
Today we read 1 Kings 8, 2 Chronicles 5, Psalm 99, and Romans 3.
As a kid I learned how to share the Gospel through what is often called the Roman Road. There are some varieties, but for me, it is Romans 3.23, 6.23, 5.8. 10.9-10, and 10.13. I marked my Bible for these verses and later memorized these verses and when you know them and can explain them, it is an easy way to lead someone to Christ. I have studied and learned other persuasive methods but I always go back to the Roman Road.
As I read this morning, I paid more attention to the end of v.22 than I did to v.23. When you put them together and see the hope of v.24, it is life changing. Notice what I speak of in Romans 3.22b-24-
For there is no distinction:23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,24 and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus
Our hope is in Christ. That is the only hope we have. There is no distinction. We are all in the same boat and we all have the same hope in Christ. For the prideful- you are no better than anyone else. Your hope is only in Christ. For the low-esteemed- You are just like everyone else. Your hope is only in Christ. We all are in the same boat and we all need to same Savior.
Never be reluctant to share the need of a Savior. It is guaranteed- Everyone needs Jesus. Do not delay.
As a kid I learned how to share the Gospel through what is often called the Roman Road. There are some varieties, but for me, it is Romans 3.23, 6.23, 5.8. 10.9-10, and 10.13. I marked my Bible for these verses and later memorized these verses and when you know them and can explain them, it is an easy way to lead someone to Christ. I have studied and learned other persuasive methods but I always go back to the Roman Road.
As I read this morning, I paid more attention to the end of v.22 than I did to v.23. When you put them together and see the hope of v.24, it is life changing. Notice what I speak of in Romans 3.22b-24-
For there is no distinction:23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,24 and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus
Our hope is in Christ. That is the only hope we have. There is no distinction. We are all in the same boat and we all have the same hope in Christ. For the prideful- you are no better than anyone else. Your hope is only in Christ. For the low-esteemed- You are just like everyone else. Your hope is only in Christ. We all are in the same boat and we all need to same Savior.
Never be reluctant to share the need of a Savior. It is guaranteed- Everyone needs Jesus. Do not delay.
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
Learning It and Living It Ourselves
Today we read 1 Kings 7, 2 Chronicles 4, Psalm 98, and Romans 2.
In Romans Paul is talking about how we are all in the same boat--the boat of sin and seperation from God. Some, the practicing Jews, knew God's law but still struggled to follow it. Some, the nonbelieving Gentiles, may not have known as much but were still responsible for the sin that seperated them from God. Paul speaks to the Jews and tells them that if they know the law and can teach the law, they must live by it as well.
Notice how it is written in Romans 2.17-21a- But if you call yourself a Jew and rely on the law and boast in God 18 and know his will and approve what is excellent, because you are instructed from the law; 19 and if you are sure that you yourself are a guide to the blind, a light to those who are in darkness, 20 an instructor of the foolish, a teacher of children, having in the law the embodiment of knowledge and truth— 21 you then who teach others, do you not teach yourself?
Now this truth speaks to the churchgoer who proclaims to be a Christian as well. A few things to think about it: If you know the will of God and say that one needs to follow it, do you follow it?
If you give people Biblical counsel and tell them to go to the Word, do you follow what the Word says for your life? If you teach, instruct, guide others in God's Word, do you practice what you preach?
One of my children asked me one time after church, Daddy, why does one of my teachers tell me not to talk in church and then I see her talking?
Huh....What do you say to such a question?
There are much bigger fish to fry in life than a whisper in the church, but the point was well made to me. Let's live out God's Word, apply it to our lives, share it with others, and thrive in it for our own sake, for other's sakes, and for the Kingdom sakes.
In Romans Paul is talking about how we are all in the same boat--the boat of sin and seperation from God. Some, the practicing Jews, knew God's law but still struggled to follow it. Some, the nonbelieving Gentiles, may not have known as much but were still responsible for the sin that seperated them from God. Paul speaks to the Jews and tells them that if they know the law and can teach the law, they must live by it as well.
Notice how it is written in Romans 2.17-21a- But if you call yourself a Jew and rely on the law and boast in God 18 and know his will and approve what is excellent, because you are instructed from the law; 19 and if you are sure that you yourself are a guide to the blind, a light to those who are in darkness, 20 an instructor of the foolish, a teacher of children, having in the law the embodiment of knowledge and truth— 21 you then who teach others, do you not teach yourself?
Now this truth speaks to the churchgoer who proclaims to be a Christian as well. A few things to think about it: If you know the will of God and say that one needs to follow it, do you follow it?
If you give people Biblical counsel and tell them to go to the Word, do you follow what the Word says for your life? If you teach, instruct, guide others in God's Word, do you practice what you preach?
One of my children asked me one time after church, Daddy, why does one of my teachers tell me not to talk in church and then I see her talking?
Huh....What do you say to such a question?
There are much bigger fish to fry in life than a whisper in the church, but the point was well made to me. Let's live out God's Word, apply it to our lives, share it with others, and thrive in it for our own sake, for other's sakes, and for the Kingdom sakes.
Monday, May 20, 2013
Mutual Encouragement
Today we read 1 Kings 6, 2 Chronicles 3, Psalm 97, and Romans 1. (www.lifejournal.cc)
We honored our graduates yesterday at FBC and it was a great day. I believe it was an encouragement
for all who was a part of it. I was reminded how sweet the fellowship of believers can really be. Paul talked about that this in Romans 1.12-13- For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to strengthen you—12 that is, that we may be mutually encouraged by each other's faith, both yours and mine.
Never underestimate how you can be encouraged in your walk of faith by your time with God's people. Never underestimate your influence on others each and every time we are together. Be an encouragement today and notice how it will come back to you. Have a great day with the Lord.
We honored our graduates yesterday at FBC and it was a great day. I believe it was an encouragement
for all who was a part of it. I was reminded how sweet the fellowship of believers can really be. Paul talked about that this in Romans 1.12-13- For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to strengthen you—12 that is, that we may be mutually encouraged by each other's faith, both yours and mine.
Never underestimate how you can be encouraged in your walk of faith by your time with God's people. Never underestimate your influence on others each and every time we are together. Be an encouragement today and notice how it will come back to you. Have a great day with the Lord.
Sunday, May 19, 2013
Walk of Honor
Today we read 1 Kings 4 & 5, 2 Chronicles 2, Psalm 101, and 2 Thessalonians 3.
Dawn and I attended the middle school award presentation and watched Abby get the royal treatment for her science fair success and Honor Roll achievement. For a girl that loves cheering and dancing a lot more than reading, she did very well.
My family and I rode to Ridgeland, MS on Friday afternoon to watch our Lady Toppers play in the state championship. We made that trip last year and it was an awesome experience. We had fun this year but the game was not very fun. I am so very proud of those girls. They keep it coming year after year. A lot of athletic success this year in Houston in football, baseball, softball, and tennis. Fun to be a part of it. Tomorrow we get to see Millie strut out of Kindergarten.
Today I get to do something I look forward to. I get to congratulate and challenge our graduates. I'm looking forward to a great day.
Something to keep in mind today. Just a short phrase that might make you think. I found it in
Psalm 101.2b- I will walk with integrity of heart within my house.
In the midst of making proclamations about his dedication to the Lord, the Psalmist speaks of who he will be at home. We often have the tendency to let our guard down at home...sometimes too much. If we are not careful, we will end up being the most blunt and the most insensitive to those that we love the very most in our own house. I say, 'Let's Be Careful!' The dear family that God has given us deserves our very best. Let's honor God today by honoring them in daily living.
Dawn and I attended the middle school award presentation and watched Abby get the royal treatment for her science fair success and Honor Roll achievement. For a girl that loves cheering and dancing a lot more than reading, she did very well.
My family and I rode to Ridgeland, MS on Friday afternoon to watch our Lady Toppers play in the state championship. We made that trip last year and it was an awesome experience. We had fun this year but the game was not very fun. I am so very proud of those girls. They keep it coming year after year. A lot of athletic success this year in Houston in football, baseball, softball, and tennis. Fun to be a part of it. Tomorrow we get to see Millie strut out of Kindergarten.
Today I get to do something I look forward to. I get to congratulate and challenge our graduates. I'm looking forward to a great day.
Something to keep in mind today. Just a short phrase that might make you think. I found it in
Psalm 101.2b- I will walk with integrity of heart within my house.
In the midst of making proclamations about his dedication to the Lord, the Psalmist speaks of who he will be at home. We often have the tendency to let our guard down at home...sometimes too much. If we are not careful, we will end up being the most blunt and the most insensitive to those that we love the very most in our own house. I say, 'Let's Be Careful!' The dear family that God has given us deserves our very best. Let's honor God today by honoring them in daily living.
Saturday, May 18, 2013
Grounded by Our Going
Today we read 1 Kings 3, 2 Chronicles 1, Psalm 78, and 2 Thessalonians 2.
After talk of rougher times ahead and glorious times as well, Paul gives us a prayer that ought to stick with you today.
2 Thessalonians 2.16-17- Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God our Father, who loved us and gave us eternal comfort and goodhope through grace, 17 comfort your hearts and establish them in every good work and word.
I pray that you are comforted today as needed and fortified, grounded, strengthened, and established in every good thing you do and every good word you say. May we be strengthened in our faith as we live out our own testimony. We get stronger when we live out what we already know and believe, if we know Jesus and believe His Will, Way, and Word is best for our lives.
Be blessed as you shine for Him today!
After talk of rougher times ahead and glorious times as well, Paul gives us a prayer that ought to stick with you today.
2 Thessalonians 2.16-17- Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God our Father, who loved us and gave us eternal comfort and goodhope through grace, 17 comfort your hearts and establish them in every good work and word.
I pray that you are comforted today as needed and fortified, grounded, strengthened, and established in every good thing you do and every good word you say. May we be strengthened in our faith as we live out our own testimony. We get stronger when we live out what we already know and believe, if we know Jesus and believe His Will, Way, and Word is best for our lives.
Be blessed as you shine for Him today!
Friday, May 17, 2013
Wisdom from a Dying Man
Today we read 1 Kings 2, 1 Chronicles 29, Psalm 95, and 2 Thessalonians 1.
What a way to Go! King David is on his death bed and tells his succeeding son how to rule and live. In 1 Kings 2.2-4- When David's time to die drew near, he commanded Solomon his son, saying, 2 “I am about to go the way of all the earth. Be strong, and show yourself a man, 3 and keep the charge of the Lord your God, walking in his ways and keeping his statutes, his commandments, his rules, and his testimonies, as it is written in the Law of Moses, that you may prosper in all that you do and wherever you turn, 4 that the Lord may establish his word that he spoke concerning me, saying, ‘If your sons pay close attention to their way, to walk before me in faithfulness with all their heart and with all their soul, you shall not lack a man on the throne of Israel.’
You can have worldly success without acknowledging the Lord in your life. I don't advise it and I don't agree with it, but I am not in charge. Don't ever confuse worldly success with the Hand of God's Favor, however. I would much rather be in the favor of God than in the wealth of the world. The Lord led David to tell Solomon that, if he lived for the Lord and if succeeding kings lived for the Lord, the throne of Israel would be protected. As it was, Solomon, who was blessed with worldly success, loved women more than he did the Lord for too many years in his life. Those women exposed him to the multiplicities of worldly, pagan cultures and he took his eyes off God and went after seeking all the world could offer. It was not until he was an old man that he called it all worthless (or vanities) in the book of Ecclesiastes. In his old age (Ecclesiastes 12.13) he tells us to walk in the ways of God and keep the statutes of God, which is the same thing his father told him at a similiar age. Solomon was wise, yet too foolish to listen to the wisdom of his father.
The end result was a split kingdom and a history of difficulties for that nation. Never underestimate the words of the wise that point you to the Lord. Never underestimate your influence on coming generations. Never underestimate the steps that you walk today and the ramifications of your actions on this VERY DAY!
With that in mind, have a great day walking with the Lord!
What a way to Go! King David is on his death bed and tells his succeeding son how to rule and live. In 1 Kings 2.2-4- When David's time to die drew near, he commanded Solomon his son, saying, 2 “I am about to go the way of all the earth. Be strong, and show yourself a man, 3 and keep the charge of the Lord your God, walking in his ways and keeping his statutes, his commandments, his rules, and his testimonies, as it is written in the Law of Moses, that you may prosper in all that you do and wherever you turn, 4 that the Lord may establish his word that he spoke concerning me, saying, ‘If your sons pay close attention to their way, to walk before me in faithfulness with all their heart and with all their soul, you shall not lack a man on the throne of Israel.’
You can have worldly success without acknowledging the Lord in your life. I don't advise it and I don't agree with it, but I am not in charge. Don't ever confuse worldly success with the Hand of God's Favor, however. I would much rather be in the favor of God than in the wealth of the world. The Lord led David to tell Solomon that, if he lived for the Lord and if succeeding kings lived for the Lord, the throne of Israel would be protected. As it was, Solomon, who was blessed with worldly success, loved women more than he did the Lord for too many years in his life. Those women exposed him to the multiplicities of worldly, pagan cultures and he took his eyes off God and went after seeking all the world could offer. It was not until he was an old man that he called it all worthless (or vanities) in the book of Ecclesiastes. In his old age (Ecclesiastes 12.13) he tells us to walk in the ways of God and keep the statutes of God, which is the same thing his father told him at a similiar age. Solomon was wise, yet too foolish to listen to the wisdom of his father.
The end result was a split kingdom and a history of difficulties for that nation. Never underestimate the words of the wise that point you to the Lord. Never underestimate your influence on coming generations. Never underestimate the steps that you walk today and the ramifications of your actions on this VERY DAY!
With that in mind, have a great day walking with the Lord!
Thursday, May 16, 2013
A Sober Thought
Today we read 1 Kings 1, 1 Chronicles 28, Psalm 91, and 1 Thessalonians 5. (www.lifejournal.cc)
We need to be careful not to be 'asleep at the wheel' during these changing days of our lives and of our world. We live in volatile days but we also live in days of opportunity. People need the Lord. The Holy Spirit still works in hearts. We still have little ones we need to train up. We still have neighbors we need to share with. We see have the freedom to worship, a commission to fulfill, and a hope to share. Let's not nod off during these days of difference.
Paul put it this way in 1 Thessalonians 5.6- So then let us not sleep, as others do, but let us keep awake and be sober.
We need to be careful not to be 'asleep at the wheel' during these changing days of our lives and of our world. We live in volatile days but we also live in days of opportunity. People need the Lord. The Holy Spirit still works in hearts. We still have little ones we need to train up. We still have neighbors we need to share with. We see have the freedom to worship, a commission to fulfill, and a hope to share. Let's not nod off during these days of difference.
Paul put it this way in 1 Thessalonians 5.6- So then let us not sleep, as others do, but let us keep awake and be sober.
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
Mindin' Your Own Bitness
Today we read 1 Chronicles 25-27 and 1 Thessalonians 4.
I love the writings of Paul...especially the short letters. I love the short letters because it gets right to the point. Usually Paul splits his letters--the first half is a theology lesson and the second half is living lessons. First orthodoxy (knowing what to believe) and then orthopraxy (living what you believe). In the short letters he gets to the practicing part a lot quicker. We get some good words today in 1 Thessalonians 4.1- Finally, then, brothers, we ask and urge you in the Lord Jesus, that as you received from us how you ought to walk and to please God, just as you are doing, that you do so more and more. And that thought continues in v.11- and to aspire to live quietly, and to mind your own affairs, and to work with your hands, as we instructed you.
I am not fascinated to know everyone else's affairs. To be a pastor and to be involved in the community, I know an amazing little about the various fits of drama that may strike the community. In other words, I don't try to keep up with the latest gossip. I am not really interested. I figure if people want me to get in the trenches of their various warfare acts, they will let me know. Of course, I am not perfect about any of that. A tad bit of info can sure be satisfying at times, but, honestly folks, we have bigger fish to fry in our lives than to dig in, analyze, and criticize others.
The Word tells us today to walk in a way to please the Lord and to mind our own affairs. That is a good Word for today, I believe.
I love the writings of Paul...especially the short letters. I love the short letters because it gets right to the point. Usually Paul splits his letters--the first half is a theology lesson and the second half is living lessons. First orthodoxy (knowing what to believe) and then orthopraxy (living what you believe). In the short letters he gets to the practicing part a lot quicker. We get some good words today in 1 Thessalonians 4.1- Finally, then, brothers, we ask and urge you in the Lord Jesus, that as you received from us how you ought to walk and to please God, just as you are doing, that you do so more and more. And that thought continues in v.11- and to aspire to live quietly, and to mind your own affairs, and to work with your hands, as we instructed you.
I am not fascinated to know everyone else's affairs. To be a pastor and to be involved in the community, I know an amazing little about the various fits of drama that may strike the community. In other words, I don't try to keep up with the latest gossip. I am not really interested. I figure if people want me to get in the trenches of their various warfare acts, they will let me know. Of course, I am not perfect about any of that. A tad bit of info can sure be satisfying at times, but, honestly folks, we have bigger fish to fry in our lives than to dig in, analyze, and criticize others.
The Word tells us today to walk in a way to please the Lord and to mind our own affairs. That is a good Word for today, I believe.
Tuesday, May 14, 2013
The Only Way
Today we read 1 Chronicles 22-24 and I Thessalonians 3.
Love is the only way. It may sound kind of hippie but it is actually very Godly and Biblical. What a good word from Paul in 1 Thessalonians 3.11-13- Now may our God and Father himself, and our Lord Jesus,direct our way to you, 12 and may the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, as we do for you, 13 so that he may establish your hearts blameless in holiness before our God and Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his saints.
As we increase our time with God, He establishes love in our hearts. That love overflows to others and our lives are made stronger by having those kind of relationships.
Now let's start our day with the Lord and let it overflow into all of our relationships.
Love is the only way. It may sound kind of hippie but it is actually very Godly and Biblical. What a good word from Paul in 1 Thessalonians 3.11-13- Now may our God and Father himself, and our Lord Jesus,direct our way to you, 12 and may the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, as we do for you, 13 so that he may establish your hearts blameless in holiness before our God and Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his saints.
As we increase our time with God, He establishes love in our hearts. That love overflows to others and our lives are made stronger by having those kind of relationships.
Now let's start our day with the Lord and let it overflow into all of our relationships.
Monday, May 13, 2013
What a Process!!
Today we read 2 Samuel 24, 1 Chronicles 21, Psalm 30, and 1 Thessalonians 2.
What a process!
May we first know the Gospel, not only in our mind but in our heart. May our lives be surrendered to the Lord and forever be saved. May we then share that message through the words of our mouth, the passions of our heart, and the actions of our will. May they see it, hear it, and be changed by it. May we then celebrate it by giving praise and thanks to God.
That is what Paul is talking about in 1 Thessalonians 2.13- And we also thank God constantly for this, that when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men but as what it really is, the word of God, which is at work in you believers.
We DO have a story to tell to the nations....and to the neighbors. Let's do it today!
What a process!
May we first know the Gospel, not only in our mind but in our heart. May our lives be surrendered to the Lord and forever be saved. May we then share that message through the words of our mouth, the passions of our heart, and the actions of our will. May they see it, hear it, and be changed by it. May we then celebrate it by giving praise and thanks to God.
That is what Paul is talking about in 1 Thessalonians 2.13- And we also thank God constantly for this, that when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men but as what it really is, the word of God, which is at work in you believers.
We DO have a story to tell to the nations....and to the neighbors. Let's do it today!
Sunday, May 12, 2013
Happy Mother's Day, Mom
Today we read 2 Samuel 21, 22,& 23 and 1 Thessalonians 1.
When I read... 1 Thessalonians 1.2-3- We give thanks to God always for all of you, constantly mentioning you in our prayers, 3 remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love andsteadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ... I cannot help but think of my mother.
I celebrate my mother today. She has always been a great, Godly example for me. She has always given me great, Godly, motherly advice (even in the days I did not want it). She has always been an encourager, a love laborer, and a faith worker. Before she was ever running a church food ministry, she was running a family food ministry. God blessed her with three knotheads- me and my two ol' sorry brothers ( I always take the time to call them 'sorry' or 'demented' due to the fact that I have never got them back for all those demeaning things they did to me when we were getting ready for school in the early 70's. I still have fears that I don't know where they came from...) and an Air Force husband and she did the same thing with her family that she did every evening in the kitchen--She wooped all that up and made it turn out pretty good. No matter what she went through, we went through, or one of us went through, Momma has always went to the Lord about the matter and come out with a Godly, eternal perspective.
I give thanks to God today, as I do everyday when I pray for her, for a Godly mother. I love you, mother. Happy Mother's Day, Mom!
When I read... 1 Thessalonians 1.2-3- We give thanks to God always for all of you, constantly mentioning you in our prayers, 3 remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love andsteadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ... I cannot help but think of my mother.
I celebrate my mother today. She has always been a great, Godly example for me. She has always given me great, Godly, motherly advice (even in the days I did not want it). She has always been an encourager, a love laborer, and a faith worker. Before she was ever running a church food ministry, she was running a family food ministry. God blessed her with three knotheads- me and my two ol' sorry brothers ( I always take the time to call them 'sorry' or 'demented' due to the fact that I have never got them back for all those demeaning things they did to me when we were getting ready for school in the early 70's. I still have fears that I don't know where they came from...) and an Air Force husband and she did the same thing with her family that she did every evening in the kitchen--She wooped all that up and made it turn out pretty good. No matter what she went through, we went through, or one of us went through, Momma has always went to the Lord about the matter and come out with a Godly, eternal perspective.
I give thanks to God today, as I do everyday when I pray for her, for a Godly mother. I love you, mother. Happy Mother's Day, Mom!
Saturday, May 11, 2013
A Hat Hanger
Today we read 2 Samuel 19 & 20, Psalm 55, and Matthew 28.
Each morning before I read I ask the Lord to show me the first that I am to lean on, apply, and rest in for that day. Each and every morning it is as if God highlights a verse as I read it.
The verse that God seemed to highlight right before me in my Bible is the one that I am going to hang my hat on today.
Psalm 55.22- Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you;
he will never permit the righteous to be moved.
Each morning before I read I ask the Lord to show me the first that I am to lean on, apply, and rest in for that day. Each and every morning it is as if God highlights a verse as I read it.
The verse that God seemed to highlight right before me in my Bible is the one that I am going to hang my hat on today.
Psalm 55.22- Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you;
he will never permit the righteous to be moved.
I encourage you to hang your hat on it as well and have a great Saturday.
Friday, May 10, 2013
A Real Washing
Today we read 2 Samuel 18, Psalm 56, and Matthew 27.
Matthew 27.24- So when Pilate saw that he was gaining nothing, but rather that a riot was beginning, he took water and washed his hands before the crowd, saying, “I am innocent of this man's blood; see to it yourselves.”
You cannot wash your hands of your part in the Lord's death. He died for your sins. He died so that you could be free. Your sin and your decision toward Him is not anybody else's fault. The blood is on your own hands.
The good news is that you can be washed clean by surrendering your life to the Lord Jesus and allowing Him to cleanse you completely.
Don't wash your hands of it. Let Him wash you clean!
Matthew 27.24- So when Pilate saw that he was gaining nothing, but rather that a riot was beginning, he took water and washed his hands before the crowd, saying, “I am innocent of this man's blood; see to it yourselves.”
You cannot wash your hands of your part in the Lord's death. He died for your sins. He died so that you could be free. Your sin and your decision toward Him is not anybody else's fault. The blood is on your own hands.
The good news is that you can be washed clean by surrendering your life to the Lord Jesus and allowing Him to cleanse you completely.
Don't wash your hands of it. Let Him wash you clean!
Thursday, May 9, 2013
Gettin' People Talkin'
Today we read 2 Samuel 17, Psalm 71, and Matthew 26.
The woman made a sacrifice for her Lord. She gave Him the best she had and served Him in a lavish way. People did not know what to think of it. Jesus replied in Matthew 26.13- Truly, I say to you, wherever this gospel is proclaimed in the whole world, what she has done will also be told in memory of her.”
Do you know what? We are still talking about her today. May we not be reluctant to serve the Lord so lavishly that we make an impact on lives that far exceeds what we thought (or think) we have the capacity to do. Let's at least try it...for His Glory!
Have a Great Day of Lavishly Serving the Lord!
The woman made a sacrifice for her Lord. She gave Him the best she had and served Him in a lavish way. People did not know what to think of it. Jesus replied in Matthew 26.13- Truly, I say to you, wherever this gospel is proclaimed in the whole world, what she has done will also be told in memory of her.”
Do you know what? We are still talking about her today. May we not be reluctant to serve the Lord so lavishly that we make an impact on lives that far exceeds what we thought (or think) we have the capacity to do. Let's at least try it...for His Glory!
Have a Great Day of Lavishly Serving the Lord!
Wednesday, May 8, 2013
Christian Ministry To Get Involved In
Today we read 2 Samuel 15 & 16, Psalm 32, and Matthew 25.
The Parable of the Sheep and the Goats is primarily a story to tell us that if we are saved children of God that we will know the voice of God and be an active part in the works of God until He comes. Salvation is not based on works, but if there is salvation, there will be a Kingdom Work Ethic. I do not believe that the jobs or ministries that Christ lists are a comprehensive list of what we are to do in ministry. Having said that, I want to make sure that I am a part of all of them.
For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, - FBC has an active food ministry through which we give a bag of groceries, including a fresh loaf of bread, to any family in need on the 3rd Tuesday night of each month. We also pray with them and give them the opportunity to receive Christ as their personal Lord and Savior. God has richly blessed this ministry as we serve hundreds of families a year.
I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me- Years ago a man came to the ER at our local hospital suffering from low blood sugar and hardly able to talk. He asked for a minister and I went to talk to him. I had a hard time communicating with him. Finally, I understood the problem...he had the worst speech impediment that I had ever heard. He stuttered horribly. Having suffered from speech problems as a child, I am sensitive to any difficulty one has in communicating, so we worked through it together. He was traveling through (a transient) and needed a good night's rest. He was a Christian but wanted to have his own copy of the Bible. We put him in the local hotel for the night, gave him some money to eat, and promised a Bible. Later that afternoon, I went back to the hotel to give Him the Bible and he was hand washing his clothes in the sink and hanging them on lamps or anywhere else he could to dry them. When he opened the door, he was freshly showered and with clean clothes on, he looked so refreshed. God just burned it in my heart. Later that week the church got a washer and dryer and we bought a change of clothes for various sizes. Now when such a guy comes through, we will wash his clothes and give him a new set as well.
I was sick and you visited me- FBC has a wonderful Free Medical Clinic that is opened monthly and we provide spiritual counsel, prayers of support, and much needed medical care and prescriptions that would otherwise not be available to them. I also spend much of the average week visiting hospitals or sick folk. It is a great door of ministry to walk through.
I was in prison and you came to me.- Some of the greatest times I have had in ministry have been preaching in prisons or visiting those in jail.
Keep this in mind. Matthew 25.40- And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’
What we do, we do for The Lord. We don't get into who needs it or not, or who deserves it. We simply give it. Let God iron out the details.
Find a way to serve today. Hey, contact us! We could use you.
The Parable of the Sheep and the Goats is primarily a story to tell us that if we are saved children of God that we will know the voice of God and be an active part in the works of God until He comes. Salvation is not based on works, but if there is salvation, there will be a Kingdom Work Ethic. I do not believe that the jobs or ministries that Christ lists are a comprehensive list of what we are to do in ministry. Having said that, I want to make sure that I am a part of all of them.
For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, - FBC has an active food ministry through which we give a bag of groceries, including a fresh loaf of bread, to any family in need on the 3rd Tuesday night of each month. We also pray with them and give them the opportunity to receive Christ as their personal Lord and Savior. God has richly blessed this ministry as we serve hundreds of families a year.
I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me- Years ago a man came to the ER at our local hospital suffering from low blood sugar and hardly able to talk. He asked for a minister and I went to talk to him. I had a hard time communicating with him. Finally, I understood the problem...he had the worst speech impediment that I had ever heard. He stuttered horribly. Having suffered from speech problems as a child, I am sensitive to any difficulty one has in communicating, so we worked through it together. He was traveling through (a transient) and needed a good night's rest. He was a Christian but wanted to have his own copy of the Bible. We put him in the local hotel for the night, gave him some money to eat, and promised a Bible. Later that afternoon, I went back to the hotel to give Him the Bible and he was hand washing his clothes in the sink and hanging them on lamps or anywhere else he could to dry them. When he opened the door, he was freshly showered and with clean clothes on, he looked so refreshed. God just burned it in my heart. Later that week the church got a washer and dryer and we bought a change of clothes for various sizes. Now when such a guy comes through, we will wash his clothes and give him a new set as well.
I was sick and you visited me- FBC has a wonderful Free Medical Clinic that is opened monthly and we provide spiritual counsel, prayers of support, and much needed medical care and prescriptions that would otherwise not be available to them. I also spend much of the average week visiting hospitals or sick folk. It is a great door of ministry to walk through.
I was in prison and you came to me.- Some of the greatest times I have had in ministry have been preaching in prisons or visiting those in jail.
Keep this in mind. Matthew 25.40- And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’
What we do, we do for The Lord. We don't get into who needs it or not, or who deserves it. We simply give it. Let God iron out the details.
Find a way to serve today. Hey, contact us! We could use you.
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
When He Returns
Today we read 2 Samuel 13 & 14 and Matthew 24.
Matthew 24 speaks of a lot of future events. There are sseveral different understandings of these passages and many people infer particular endtime events in these words. I believe I understand a lot of what is going on in these passages, but I do not understand it all. I don't think anyone does. Those who pretend to have a corner on the market on what is exactly is going to happen in our tomorrows are shooting a little too high. Jesus gives us several clues that we are not going to figure it all out. Those clues often seem to be ignored. Let me tell you what the thrust of this passage is and how to apply it:
1) The Day is Coming. Have no doubt, the Lord is coming back. Don't live like He is not. Don't act like He is not. He is.
2) You Need to Be Ready. It will one day be too late to follow the Lord Jesus and to allow Him to change your life. Be ready before that day comes. We serve a God that allows second chances, however one day, there will not be that luxury.
3) You Need to Be Busy for Him Until He Comes. Matthew 24.46- Blessed is that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes. Let us live and work today as if it were our last, because it just might be. Let us work for Him as long as He lets us.
Matthew 24 speaks of a lot of future events. There are sseveral different understandings of these passages and many people infer particular endtime events in these words. I believe I understand a lot of what is going on in these passages, but I do not understand it all. I don't think anyone does. Those who pretend to have a corner on the market on what is exactly is going to happen in our tomorrows are shooting a little too high. Jesus gives us several clues that we are not going to figure it all out. Those clues often seem to be ignored. Let me tell you what the thrust of this passage is and how to apply it:
1) The Day is Coming. Have no doubt, the Lord is coming back. Don't live like He is not. Don't act like He is not. He is.
2) You Need to Be Ready. It will one day be too late to follow the Lord Jesus and to allow Him to change your life. Be ready before that day comes. We serve a God that allows second chances, however one day, there will not be that luxury.
3) You Need to Be Busy for Him Until He Comes. Matthew 24.46- Blessed is that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes. Let us live and work today as if it were our last, because it just might be. Let us work for Him as long as He lets us.
Monday, May 6, 2013
The Inside Overflow
Today we read 2 Samuel 11 & 12, Psalm 51, and Matthew 23.
We read today about David and Bathsheba and the psalm is David's prayer of confession and repentance before the Lord after being confronted. In our Matthew reading we read the seven woes that the Lord pronounced on the hypocritical, religious leaders. They had their polity and behavior figured out. The problem was not what they looked like. The problem was who they really were inside. Christ illustrates this in Matthew 23.26- You blind Pharisee! First clean the inside of the cup and the plate, that the outside also may be clean.
We often worry about what other people think of us or what they see us doing or not doing. Christ makes the point that if we will deal with our hearts and minds and get them right, the outside behavior and impressions will take care of themselves. That is not to say that we should not strive to act decently. It is to say that if our hearts and minds are right, it will not be so hard.
Let's let God wash the inside of our cup today. The overflow will cover the outside.
We read today about David and Bathsheba and the psalm is David's prayer of confession and repentance before the Lord after being confronted. In our Matthew reading we read the seven woes that the Lord pronounced on the hypocritical, religious leaders. They had their polity and behavior figured out. The problem was not what they looked like. The problem was who they really were inside. Christ illustrates this in Matthew 23.26- You blind Pharisee! First clean the inside of the cup and the plate, that the outside also may be clean.
We often worry about what other people think of us or what they see us doing or not doing. Christ makes the point that if we will deal with our hearts and minds and get them right, the outside behavior and impressions will take care of themselves. That is not to say that we should not strive to act decently. It is to say that if our hearts and minds are right, it will not be so hard.
Let's let God wash the inside of our cup today. The overflow will cover the outside.
Sunday, May 5, 2013
With All Your Heart
Today we read 2 Samuel 10, 1 Chronicles 20, Psalm 20, & Matthew 22.
The Psalmist mentions a wonderful prayer that is a great one to remember when praying for others.
Psalm 20.4- May he grant you your heart's desire and fulfill all your plans!
Many people become frustrated because they feel as if God does not answer such a prayer for their lives. They have a heart's desire and God does not allow it to be fulfilled. Let me give you a key point to keep in mind. Seek the Lord with all your heart. Psalm 37.4 says- Take delight in the Lord...
When your heart is seeking the Lord's Will and His Way in your life, He will cultivate the plans that you strive for, and He will give you the desire to do His Will. You can then watch Him fulfill His Plans (which will then line up with your plans) in an amazing way before your very eyes.
That is a part of the transforming our minds and hearts and not conforming to this world. It is a beautiful process. It is a learning process, yet one you look back on and be strengthened by.
My hope for you today is to desire the Lord with all your heart and watch Him fulfill His/your plans in your life.
Saturday, May 4, 2013
Marvelous
Today we read 2 Samuel 8 &9, 1 Chronicles 18 & 19, and Matthew 21.
Matthew 21.42- Jesus said to them, “Have you never read in the Scriptures:
“‘The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone;
this was the Lord's doing, and it is marvelous in our eyes’?
Don't wait on the rest of the world to accept Christ for you to live out your faith before them. Don't be surprised when the world rejects the opportunity of Christ, even though He is so compelling to you. We are to build our lives upon the promise and provision of Christ, however, many will reject such an opportunity. In the midst of such a world, we give Him praise and share Him more.
Let it mark your day...and your life.
Matthew 21.42- Jesus said to them, “Have you never read in the Scriptures:
“‘The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone;
this was the Lord's doing, and it is marvelous in our eyes’?
Don't wait on the rest of the world to accept Christ for you to live out your faith before them. Don't be surprised when the world rejects the opportunity of Christ, even though He is so compelling to you. We are to build our lives upon the promise and provision of Christ, however, many will reject such an opportunity. In the midst of such a world, we give Him praise and share Him more.
Let it mark your day...and your life.
Friday, May 3, 2013
None Other
Today we read 2 Samuel 7, 1 Chronicles 17, Psalm 2, and Matthew 20.
As David heard from The Lord concerning the legacy that the king would leave, David gave God praise. In 1 Chronicles 17.20 he prays, "There is none like you, O Lord, and there is no God besides you, according to all that we have heard with our ears."
To hear the promises of God and to know how God will use you had to be an awesome moment. However, notice that at the same time, that what David wanted to do for God was not to be fulfilled by him. David would not build the Temple. That was not the focus of the work of God in David. David was both excited about the legacy that God would allow him to leave, but probably a little disappointed that he could not do what he wanted to do for God. God's plan was different for Him. Even with that, David gives Him praise.
Praise The Lord today! He has set your footsteps and He will guide your path. Follow HIs direction and give Him praise.
As David heard from The Lord concerning the legacy that the king would leave, David gave God praise. In 1 Chronicles 17.20 he prays, "There is none like you, O Lord, and there is no God besides you, according to all that we have heard with our ears."
To hear the promises of God and to know how God will use you had to be an awesome moment. However, notice that at the same time, that what David wanted to do for God was not to be fulfilled by him. David would not build the Temple. That was not the focus of the work of God in David. David was both excited about the legacy that God would allow him to leave, but probably a little disappointed that he could not do what he wanted to do for God. God's plan was different for Him. Even with that, David gives Him praise.
Praise The Lord today! He has set your footsteps and He will guide your path. Follow HIs direction and give Him praise.
Thursday, May 2, 2013
A Day of Praise
Today we read 1 Chronicles 16, Psalm 106, and Matthew 19.
Psalm 106.8- Oh give thanks to the Lord; call upon his name;
make known his deeds among the peoples!
9 Sing to him, sing praises to him;
tell of all his wondrous works!
I praise the Lord for a contemporary, Christian song that I heard in the early 80's sung by a young ensemble called Truth. Their song taught me the power of a passage that I have been meditating on through this day.
Psalm 106.8- Oh give thanks to the Lord; call upon his name;
make known his deeds among the peoples!
9 Sing to him, sing praises to him;
tell of all his wondrous works!
I praise the Lord today. I praise the Lord for the opportunity to experience a very unique yesterday. It is not often that you are able to be a part of an inauguration of a seminary president. It was a gala event but it was also a very anointed, Spirit-filled time...powerful to be a part of it. I praise the Lord for it.
I praise the Lord today for my return home last night. After a couple of very busy months, I breathe some relief today and cherish a good night at home.
I praise the Lord for the opportunity to preach His Word. I spent this afternoon hammering through a passage that God has opened my eyes to over the last year. It is a joy to have the opportunity to preach God's Word to a wonderful church family like First Baptist.
I praise the Lord for the wind on the bluff of a Kansas City hill. I praise the Lord for the beautiful sunset last night that I witnessed while flying home. I praise the Lord for the crispness of morning.
I praise the Lord for His Word that I can cherish daily: reading in the morning and chew on all day.
I give praise to you, Lord..may all know!
Wednesday, May 1, 2013
A Hand to Hold On To
Today we read 1 Chronicles 14 & 15, Psalm 132, and Matthew 18.
Jesus reminds us today to be like a child. In Matthew 18.2-4- And calling to him a child, he put him in the midst of them 3 and said, “Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. 4 Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
That does not mean that we are to be childish. He is not telling us to whine when we do not get our way, to be impatient when we do not understand, or to wander through life carelessly until we get completely seperated from the one that is to guide us.
There are, however, many traits of a child that we ought to keep throughout our life in relationship with the Lord or regress back into if needed.
Like a child we ought to be dependent. When the storms come, my children still come to me and say- Are we alright?
Like a child we ought to be willing to be led. My 6 year old knows that when the traffic is thick, she needs to hold my hand. It is natural for her. It is automatic.
Like a child we need to be humble enough to admit our needs. The false sense of self-sufficiency is damaging to a child-- to my children or to the children of God.
Lean in to the Lord today. Admit your need, hold His Hand, hear His voice. The Kingdom of Heaven is yours to enjoy!
And Have a Great Day!
Jesus reminds us today to be like a child. In Matthew 18.2-4- And calling to him a child, he put him in the midst of them 3 and said, “Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. 4 Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
That does not mean that we are to be childish. He is not telling us to whine when we do not get our way, to be impatient when we do not understand, or to wander through life carelessly until we get completely seperated from the one that is to guide us.
There are, however, many traits of a child that we ought to keep throughout our life in relationship with the Lord or regress back into if needed.
Like a child we ought to be dependent. When the storms come, my children still come to me and say- Are we alright?
Like a child we ought to be willing to be led. My 6 year old knows that when the traffic is thick, she needs to hold my hand. It is natural for her. It is automatic.
Like a child we need to be humble enough to admit our needs. The false sense of self-sufficiency is damaging to a child-- to my children or to the children of God.
Lean in to the Lord today. Admit your need, hold His Hand, hear His voice. The Kingdom of Heaven is yours to enjoy!
And Have a Great Day!
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