Today we read Zechariah 7-9 and Luke 13.
Luke 13.34- O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often would I havegathered your children together as a hen gathers her broodunder her wings, and you were not willing!
Dear Lord,
As I read about the burden that Jesus had for Jerusalem and the missed opportunities that had come and went, I cannot help but think that America must break your heart. Founded for the purpose of the proliferation of the Gospel and the freedom to stand for Christ, we have squandered too many opportunities. We must have aimed in the wrong direction. Could it be that our attempts at changing society's policies should have been more aimed at living consecrated lives before our friends and neighbors and trusting the power of the Gospel as we shared with all we came in contact with? Could it be that the blessing of the Lord's Hand of protection is lifting off America and moving on to other nations where the Spirit of God is in a more ignited people? Lord, I pray it is not too late. Let us not prop up the lazy and penalize the worker. Let the flag of democracy not waver in the stormy winds of government forced socialism. Let the church stand strong again in the midst of an upside down society where right is now wrong and wrong is now norm. May your Gospel shine through an imperfect people. May you empower them with your spirit, strengthen them in the battle, and steady their course for the day ahead. Oh, dear God, bless, strengthen, and straighten America...and let it begin with me. In Jesus Name, Amen
Monday, September 30, 2013
Sunday, September 29, 2013
Be Dressed and Ready
Today we read Zechariah 4-6 and Luke 12.
When I am riding with someone who is supposed to pick me up for an event, I always make sure that I am ready in plenty of time (in case, he is early) and, if it is evening, I turn on the porch light to show my readiness. I look out the window with anticipation because I don't like to make people wait.
Well, I have someone coming to get me and I don't know when He is coming. I think I will just be ready. That is what Jesus told me to do in Luke 12.35-36 - Stay dressed for action and keep your lamps burning, and be like men who are waiting for their master to come home from the wedding feast, so that they may open the door to him at once when he comes and knocks.
Are you ready for Him to return? We don't know when, so we better be dressed and ready and looking out the window in anticpation of the coming day.
When I am riding with someone who is supposed to pick me up for an event, I always make sure that I am ready in plenty of time (in case, he is early) and, if it is evening, I turn on the porch light to show my readiness. I look out the window with anticipation because I don't like to make people wait.
Well, I have someone coming to get me and I don't know when He is coming. I think I will just be ready. That is what Jesus told me to do in Luke 12.35-36 - Stay dressed for action and keep your lamps burning, and be like men who are waiting for their master to come home from the wedding feast, so that they may open the door to him at once when he comes and knocks.
Are you ready for Him to return? We don't know when, so we better be dressed and ready and looking out the window in anticpation of the coming day.
Saturday, September 28, 2013
In the Light
Today we read Zechariah 1-3 and Luke 11.
Luke 11.34-36 -Your eye is the lamp of your body. When your eye is healthy, your whole body is full of light, but when it is bad, your body is full of darkness. 35 Therefore be careful lest the light in you be darkness. 36 If then your whole body is full of light, having no part dark, it will be wholly bright, as when a lamp with its rays gives you light.”
Live in the light today. There is so much more in the Lord that you can see...in the light.
Have a great day!
Luke 11.34-36 -Your eye is the lamp of your body. When your eye is healthy, your whole body is full of light, but when it is bad, your body is full of darkness. 35 Therefore be careful lest the light in you be darkness. 36 If then your whole body is full of light, having no part dark, it will be wholly bright, as when a lamp with its rays gives you light.”
Live in the light today. There is so much more in the Lord that you can see...in the light.
Have a great day!
Friday, September 27, 2013
At His Feet
Today we read Haggai 1 & 2, Psalm 129, and Luke 10.
Jesus came to the house of Mary and Martha. Martha was busy-busy trying to cross all her T's and dot all her I's as a host. Mary sat at the feet of the Lord and listened to Him. The Lord responed in
Luke 10.41-42- But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things,42 but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.”
It is easy to get so busy that we miss the main thing. We need to start our day with the Lord and then reflect on Him throughout the day. Anything else that we have on our agenda is second to that and will be enhanced from us taking time with the Lord.
Sit at His Feet today...whether walking around or plopped down.
Jesus came to the house of Mary and Martha. Martha was busy-busy trying to cross all her T's and dot all her I's as a host. Mary sat at the feet of the Lord and listened to Him. The Lord responed in
Luke 10.41-42- But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things,42 but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.”
It is easy to get so busy that we miss the main thing. We need to start our day with the Lord and then reflect on Him throughout the day. Anything else that we have on our agenda is second to that and will be enhanced from us taking time with the Lord.
Sit at His Feet today...whether walking around or plopped down.
Thursday, September 26, 2013
Demands and Rest
Today we read Ezra 4, Psalms 113 & 127, and Luke 9.
When my mother was just a little younger than I am now, she was going through the agony of watching her father die. His heart was giving out after a couple of heart attacks. She was spending long hours at the hospital with the hopeless feelings that come when a loved one is slowly leaving this world. Beyond that, she was still trying to balance a job and a family with three boys. She has told me several times since, that one night as she came home after long hours at the hospital, that her 8 year old son (me) had left the following passage by her bedside for her:
Psalm 127.2- It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil;
for he gives to his beloved sleep.
When my mother was just a little younger than I am now, she was going through the agony of watching her father die. His heart was giving out after a couple of heart attacks. She was spending long hours at the hospital with the hopeless feelings that come when a loved one is slowly leaving this world. Beyond that, she was still trying to balance a job and a family with three boys. She has told me several times since, that one night as she came home after long hours at the hospital, that her 8 year old son (me) had left the following passage by her bedside for her:
Psalm 127.2- It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil;
for he gives to his beloved sleep.
I am thankful that I am not going through the agony that she did during those days. I am, however, the balancer of a ministry, a family, and all the stuff that comes with it. I am up early and sometimes it is late before I rest. Anxiety does creep in as well. As I read this passage this morning, I could not help but think about the daily need in my life to lean upon the Lord with all my demands and to find my rest in Him.
I hope you can as well. Have a great day!
Wednesday, September 25, 2013
Soul Soil
Today we read Ezra 2 & 3 and Luke 8.
We are to scatter seed by telling people about Jesus, speaking often of the truths of God's Word and living out the love of God's Word before others. We are also to be receptive of God's Word like fertile soil that absorbs a seed and then becomes fruitful. As Jesus tells the story of the sower and the seed in Luke 8, have you considered how you 'take in' His Word?
Luke 8.14-15- And as for what fell among the thorns, they are those who hear, butas they go on their way they are choked by the cares and riches and pleasures of life, and their fruit does not mature.15 As for that in the good soil, they are those who, hearing the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bear fruit with patience.
There is a lot in this world to throw us off from being everything that God would have us to be. Don't you dare get thrown off! Live for Jesus today and be fruitful!
We are to scatter seed by telling people about Jesus, speaking often of the truths of God's Word and living out the love of God's Word before others. We are also to be receptive of God's Word like fertile soil that absorbs a seed and then becomes fruitful. As Jesus tells the story of the sower and the seed in Luke 8, have you considered how you 'take in' His Word?
Luke 8.14-15- And as for what fell among the thorns, they are those who hear, butas they go on their way they are choked by the cares and riches and pleasures of life, and their fruit does not mature.15 As for that in the good soil, they are those who, hearing the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bear fruit with patience.
There is a lot in this world to throw us off from being everything that God would have us to be. Don't you dare get thrown off! Live for Jesus today and be fruitful!
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
Where It's At!
Today we read Ezra 1, Psalms 84 & 85, and Luke 7.
You will have options today and everyday about what you do with your time and where you go. Always remember what Psalm 84.10 says:
For a day in your courts is better than a thousand elsewhere.
I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of wickedness.
Never wonder what you may miss by dedicating your heart to the Lord and living for Him. The world and its options are filled with baseless promises and deceptive lies. Live in the courts of Jesus....hang out in his yard. Now that is where it's at!
You will have options today and everyday about what you do with your time and where you go. Always remember what Psalm 84.10 says:
For a day in your courts is better than a thousand elsewhere.
I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of wickedness.
Monday, September 23, 2013
Building To Last
Today we read Daniel 11-12 and Luke 6.
Years ago I wanted to get back in shape (an ongoing burden/attempt/effort). It was in the mid 1190's when Billy Blanks' TaeBo videos were out. It was some type of kung fu, boxing, aerobic workout that looked more manly than the Richard Simmons' Sweating to the Oldies. I bought the videos, got them home, and watched one of them. I guess I got up and cleaned out a spot on the floor on the first day, but I don't remember that. I just remember watching the video and thinking 'that would be easy for a few minutes but he just keeps on doing it.' I now have a nice set of VHS TaeBo videos fresh out of the wrapper at a very good price.
It does no good to know the stuff if you are not going to apply to your life. You have to 'work it out.'
In Luke 6 Jesus gives us good teaching on practical, spiritual living and how to allow what God is doing in your heart to effect your everyday. However, he warns of the need to live it out:
Luke 6.46-49 - “Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do what I tell you? 47 Everyone who comes to me and hears my words and does them, I will show you what he is like: 48 he is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock. And when a flood arose, the stream broke against that house and could not shake it, because it had been well built. 49 But the one who hears and does not do them is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. When the stream broke against it, immediately it fell, and the ruin of that house was great.”
I promise if you live your life on the words of Christ and build your life on the life change that Christ can bring, you will build something that will last. Storms are going to come. When they do, will you be ready? Boy, I hope so.
Let's work hard together on building lives that last in the Lord.
Years ago I wanted to get back in shape (an ongoing burden/attempt/effort). It was in the mid 1190's when Billy Blanks' TaeBo videos were out. It was some type of kung fu, boxing, aerobic workout that looked more manly than the Richard Simmons' Sweating to the Oldies. I bought the videos, got them home, and watched one of them. I guess I got up and cleaned out a spot on the floor on the first day, but I don't remember that. I just remember watching the video and thinking 'that would be easy for a few minutes but he just keeps on doing it.' I now have a nice set of VHS TaeBo videos fresh out of the wrapper at a very good price.
It does no good to know the stuff if you are not going to apply to your life. You have to 'work it out.'
In Luke 6 Jesus gives us good teaching on practical, spiritual living and how to allow what God is doing in your heart to effect your everyday. However, he warns of the need to live it out:
Luke 6.46-49 - “Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do what I tell you? 47 Everyone who comes to me and hears my words and does them, I will show you what he is like: 48 he is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock. And when a flood arose, the stream broke against that house and could not shake it, because it had been well built. 49 But the one who hears and does not do them is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. When the stream broke against it, immediately it fell, and the ruin of that house was great.”
I promise if you live your life on the words of Christ and build your life on the life change that Christ can bring, you will build something that will last. Storms are going to come. When they do, will you be ready? Boy, I hope so.
Let's work hard together on building lives that last in the Lord.
Sunday, September 22, 2013
'Eyes On' Learning
Today we read Daniel 9-10, Psalm 123, and Luke 5.
Psalm 123.1-2- To you I lift up my eyes, O you who are enthroned in the heavens!
2 Behold, as the eyes of servant look to the hand of their master,
as the eyes of a maidservant to the hand of her mistress,
so our eyes look to the Lord our God, till he has mercy upon us.
May our eyes be so steady on the work and movement of The Lord that we always follow His Lead and live for His Cause. Mark your day by keeping your eyes on Him!
Psalm 123.1-2- To you I lift up my eyes, O you who are enthroned in the heavens!
2 Behold, as the eyes of servant look to the hand of their master,
as the eyes of a maidservant to the hand of her mistress,
so our eyes look to the Lord our God, till he has mercy upon us.
Saturday, September 21, 2013
A Desolate Place
Today we read Daniel 7-8, Psalm 137, and Luke 4.
Luke 4.42- And when it was day, he departed and went into a desolate place.
If Jesus had to pull away from the demands that met Him everyday to be with the Father, what makes you think you can get by without it?
Take time to depart into a desolate place with the Father today...everyday.
And have a great Saturday.
Luke 4.42- And when it was day, he departed and went into a desolate place.
If Jesus had to pull away from the demands that met Him everyday to be with the Father, what makes you think you can get by without it?
Take time to depart into a desolate place with the Father today...everyday.
And have a great Saturday.
Friday, September 20, 2013
Just As He Had Done
Today we read Daniel 5-6, Psalm 130, and Luke 3.
In Daniel 6 a law was made that you could not worship anything besides the king.
Notice how Daniel responded in Daniel 6.10- When Daniel knew that the document had been signed, he went to his house where he had windows in his upper chamber open toward Jerusalem. He got down on his knees three times a day and prayed and gave thanks before his God, as he had done previously.
I like the last phrase in this verse. He did not change his personal devotion for the Lord. It is not that he wanted everyone to see him or that he did what he did for the sake of others. He had a personal devotion to the Lord that was an appointment in his life. He let nothing come in the way of it. I like a cup of coffee on the back porch or 'in the den' for my time with the Lord. Daniel liked his balcony. What he did, however, was not for show. It was for a love for the Lord. Did others pick up on it? Yes, they will, if your life reflects it. They may even catch a glimpse of you reading your copy of God's Word or lifting a prayer to the Lord...just don't do as a show for others to see. Love The Lord with your heart, not for a show....and do it today!
In Daniel 6 a law was made that you could not worship anything besides the king.
Notice how Daniel responded in Daniel 6.10- When Daniel knew that the document had been signed, he went to his house where he had windows in his upper chamber open toward Jerusalem. He got down on his knees three times a day and prayed and gave thanks before his God, as he had done previously.
I like the last phrase in this verse. He did not change his personal devotion for the Lord. It is not that he wanted everyone to see him or that he did what he did for the sake of others. He had a personal devotion to the Lord that was an appointment in his life. He let nothing come in the way of it. I like a cup of coffee on the back porch or 'in the den' for my time with the Lord. Daniel liked his balcony. What he did, however, was not for show. It was for a love for the Lord. Did others pick up on it? Yes, they will, if your life reflects it. They may even catch a glimpse of you reading your copy of God's Word or lifting a prayer to the Lord...just don't do as a show for others to see. Love The Lord with your heart, not for a show....and do it today!
Thursday, September 19, 2013
Fresh, Living Water
Today we read Ezekiel 47-48 and Luke 2.
A vision that Ezekiel sees in Eze. 47 is quite fascinating. There is a fresh water river flowing out of the Temple. Wherever the river flows, there is life. On the shores of the river there are bountiful trees on its banks. The waters are filled with fish. It is a beautiful scene. Notice Ezekiel 47.12- And on the banks, on both sides of the river, there will grow all kinds of trees for food. Their leaves will not wither, nor their fruit fail, but they will bear fresh fruit every month, because the water for them flows from the sanctuary. Their fruit will be for food, and their leaves for healing.
Notice the water flows from the sanctuary. The sanctuary speaks of the presence of God. Newness, life, and bountiful blessings come from being in the presence of God. It is what Jesus called living water. It reminds me of the blessings of the person that stays in God's Word as recorded in Psalm 1.
Don't forget where your blessing comes from and do not neglect your opportunity today.
Notice the water flows from the sanctuary. The sanctuary speaks of the presence of God. Newness, life, and bountiful blessings come from being in the presence of God. It is what Jesus called living water. It reminds me of the blessings of the person that stays in God's Word as recorded in Psalm 1.
Don't forget where your blessing comes from and do not neglect your opportunity today.
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
The First Words
Today we read Ezekiel 45-46 and Luke 1.
Zechariah, the father of John the Baptist, had a hard time believing that his senior adult wife was pregnant. When he questioned the angel, Gabriel told him that he would be silent
during the remainder of her pregnancy. It was God's way of putting him in the corner to give him some time to think....not a bad thing.
After the birth of John, friends and family wanted to know what his father wanted to name him. Zechariah wrote down (unable to speak) that his name should be John. Notice what happened next in Luke 1.64- And immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he spoke, blessing God.
I read, write, and study first thing in the morning when just me and the dogs are up. It is early and dark and pretty quiet (we do have a puppy). My dogs don't talk much and I don't say much to them. I just speak a few words of command as needed and give them a little love. However, in a few minutes, I will get the family up. After a time of God-given silence (while sleeping in the bed and studying in the den), I will begin speaking. May I...may you..open our mouths today and do the same thing Zechariah did after his period of silence. I hope we start out our conversational day blessing God, sharing the love of God, and enjoying what we have in Christ.
I need to be warned, as some of you do, that my family is not as cheery in the morning as I am. There will be challenging moments in a little while. May our hearts be set with such an excitement and drive for the Lord that nothing defeats us.
Have a blessed morning and an even better day!
Zechariah, the father of John the Baptist, had a hard time believing that his senior adult wife was pregnant. When he questioned the angel, Gabriel told him that he would be silent
during the remainder of her pregnancy. It was God's way of putting him in the corner to give him some time to think....not a bad thing.
After the birth of John, friends and family wanted to know what his father wanted to name him. Zechariah wrote down (unable to speak) that his name should be John. Notice what happened next in Luke 1.64- And immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he spoke, blessing God.
I read, write, and study first thing in the morning when just me and the dogs are up. It is early and dark and pretty quiet (we do have a puppy). My dogs don't talk much and I don't say much to them. I just speak a few words of command as needed and give them a little love. However, in a few minutes, I will get the family up. After a time of God-given silence (while sleeping in the bed and studying in the den), I will begin speaking. May I...may you..open our mouths today and do the same thing Zechariah did after his period of silence. I hope we start out our conversational day blessing God, sharing the love of God, and enjoying what we have in Christ.
I need to be warned, as some of you do, that my family is not as cheery in the morning as I am. There will be challenging moments in a little while. May our hearts be set with such an excitement and drive for the Lord that nothing defeats us.
Have a blessed morning and an even better day!
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
It Could Be Today
Today we read Ezekiel 42-44 and Revelation 22.
When it is all said and done, we need to keep it all in proper perspective. Jesus is coming again. It could even be today. Revelation 22.20 - He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!
Let us live as if today is our last opportunity and use it wisely. Let us remain faithful to the end, however long it may be. Let us look to His Face until we see Him face to face.
Even so, Lord Jesus, quickly come!
When it is all said and done, we need to keep it all in proper perspective. Jesus is coming again. It could even be today. Revelation 22.20 - He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!
Let us live as if today is our last opportunity and use it wisely. Let us remain faithful to the end, however long it may be. Let us look to His Face until we see Him face to face.
Even so, Lord Jesus, quickly come!
Monday, September 16, 2013
The Olive Shoots
Today we read Ezekiel 40-41, Psalm 128, and Revelation 21.
I struck a chord with a phrase in Psalm 128 this morning.
Psalm 128.1-4 - Blessed is everyone who fears the Lord, who walks in his ways!
You shall eat the fruit of the labor of your hands, you shall be blessed, and it shall be well with you. Your wife will be like a fruitful vine within your house; your children will be like olive shoots around your table. Behold, thus shall the man be blessed who fears the Lord.
I am at the point in my life that when I look around the supper table at my home, I pray that my children will be like 'olive shoots'. Olive shoots are promises of future growth. Sometimes it takes an olive tree forty years to produce, but if it has olive shoots, it will produce.
Don't ever forget: much of what we do spiritually today is for the fruit of tomorrow through the branches God blesses us to produce. May His Blessings for me, bless my children as well.
You are building a legacy today. Do it carefully!
I struck a chord with a phrase in Psalm 128 this morning.
Psalm 128.1-4 - Blessed is everyone who fears the Lord, who walks in his ways!
You shall eat the fruit of the labor of your hands, you shall be blessed, and it shall be well with you. Your wife will be like a fruitful vine within your house; your children will be like olive shoots around your table. Behold, thus shall the man be blessed who fears the Lord.
I am at the point in my life that when I look around the supper table at my home, I pray that my children will be like 'olive shoots'. Olive shoots are promises of future growth. Sometimes it takes an olive tree forty years to produce, but if it has olive shoots, it will produce.
Don't ever forget: much of what we do spiritually today is for the fruit of tomorrow through the branches God blesses us to produce. May His Blessings for me, bless my children as well.
You are building a legacy today. Do it carefully!
Sunday, September 15, 2013
Generation Next
Today we read Ezekiel 38-39, Psalm 145, and Revelation 20.
Psalm 145.4- One generation shall commend your works to another, and shall declare your mighty acts.
It is our responsibility to make sure the next generation knows the life-changing salvation that is offered to them in Christ. Let's be busy about sharing Him today.
Psalm 145.4- One generation shall commend your works to another, and shall declare your mighty acts.
It is our responsibility to make sure the next generation knows the life-changing salvation that is offered to them in Christ. Let's be busy about sharing Him today.
Saturday, September 14, 2013
The Wedding To Be In
Today we read Ezekiel 36-37, Psalm 110, and Revelation 19.
Revelation 19.4- And the angel said to me, “Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb.” And he said to me, “These are the true words of God.”
The great union of all God's people in heaven when this life is over is often described in Scripture as a wedding. Jesus is the groom and the church (all believers in Christ) is the bride. It will be the biggest party in all of eternal history. It is one not to miss.
I want you to be there. However, you must accept the invitation. I am not speaking of just an invitation to an event but to a life, life in Christ. Admit your need for Christ, confess your sin to Christ, commit your life to Christ, and you will be united with Christ by the empowerment of His Spirit and the salvation of your soul.
Seem to good to be true...it is...yet it is true. Come to Jesus today. I would love to help guide you in that.
And I will see you at the wedding if not before.
Revelation 19.4- And the angel said to me, “Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb.” And he said to me, “These are the true words of God.”
The great union of all God's people in heaven when this life is over is often described in Scripture as a wedding. Jesus is the groom and the church (all believers in Christ) is the bride. It will be the biggest party in all of eternal history. It is one not to miss.
I want you to be there. However, you must accept the invitation. I am not speaking of just an invitation to an event but to a life, life in Christ. Admit your need for Christ, confess your sin to Christ, commit your life to Christ, and you will be united with Christ by the empowerment of His Spirit and the salvation of your soul.
Seem to good to be true...it is...yet it is true. Come to Jesus today. I would love to help guide you in that.
And I will see you at the wedding if not before.
Friday, September 13, 2013
A Heap of Trouble
Today we read Ezekiel 33-35 and Revelation 18.
Revelation 18.4-5- Then I heard another voice from heaven saying,
“Come out of her, my people, lest you take part in her sins,
lest you share in her plagues;
for her sins are heaped high as heaven and God has remembered her iniquities.
I am thankful today that, although we live in a wicked and sinful world, we have been empowered to make the choice to come out of our sin and the worldly environments that weaken us and live for Jesus. Our yesterdays can be forgiven, our todays can be empowered and our tomorrows can be filled with a promised hope.
Thank you, Lord Jesus, for removing our heap of messups, mishaps, and mistakes.
Revelation 18.4-5- Then I heard another voice from heaven saying,
“Come out of her, my people, lest you take part in her sins,
lest you share in her plagues;
for her sins are heaped high as heaven and God has remembered her iniquities.
I am thankful today that, although we live in a wicked and sinful world, we have been empowered to make the choice to come out of our sin and the worldly environments that weaken us and live for Jesus. Our yesterdays can be forgiven, our todays can be empowered and our tomorrows can be filled with a promised hope.
Thank you, Lord Jesus, for removing our heap of messups, mishaps, and mistakes.
Thursday, September 12, 2013
When The Heat Rises
Today we read Daniel 3-4, Psalm 81, and Revelation 17.
King Nebby had the three Hebrews thrown into the fire. He looked in and saw four.
Daniel 3.24-25- Then King Nebuchadnezzar was astonished and rose up in haste. He declared to his counselors, “Did we not cast three men bound into the fire?” They answered and said to the king, “True, O king.” 25 He answered and said, “But I see four men unbound, walking in the midst of the fire, and they are not hurt; and the appearance of the fourth is like a son of the gods.”
The fourth one was not 'a' son of the 'gods', but 'the' Son of 'God' and He was in the furnace with them. Aren't you glad this morning that no matter what fire you may have to fight and no matter what fiery dart the evil one hurls at you, you are not alone? He walks right there with you.
Remember: If you cannot stand the heat, you are not alone in the kitchen. He walks with you today!
King Nebby had the three Hebrews thrown into the fire. He looked in and saw four.
Daniel 3.24-25- Then King Nebuchadnezzar was astonished and rose up in haste. He declared to his counselors, “Did we not cast three men bound into the fire?” They answered and said to the king, “True, O king.” 25 He answered and said, “But I see four men unbound, walking in the midst of the fire, and they are not hurt; and the appearance of the fourth is like a son of the gods.”
The fourth one was not 'a' son of the 'gods', but 'the' Son of 'God' and He was in the furnace with them. Aren't you glad this morning that no matter what fire you may have to fight and no matter what fiery dart the evil one hurls at you, you are not alone? He walks right there with you.
Remember: If you cannot stand the heat, you are not alone in the kitchen. He walks with you today!
Wednesday, September 11, 2013
Watching for the Traps
Today we read Daniel 1 & 2 and Revelation 16.
I have always been impressed with Daniel...I even like his name. The kingdom put them on a special diet, but Daniel felt that he would be defiled by eating and drinking what they gave him and he refused to. Daniel 1.8 states it this way: But Daniel resolved that he would not defile himself withthe king's food, or with the wine that he drank. Therefore he asked the chief of the eunuchs to allow him not to defile himself.
Oh, that the people of God would determine not to be defiled by the traps of this world. There are so many ways we can be defiled. I think about three this morning:
1) Physical defilement. I Cor. 6.19 reminds us that our body is a temple of the Holy Spirit and that we are not our own. We need to glorify God with our body. That includes the things we take in and the things that we participate in. The standards of this world is very low. The standards of our own culture and neighborhoods grow lower by the day. Status quo is ungodly, wrong, and never justified. It may not be so much 'what would Jesus do', as it is, 'what am I going to do now that Jesus is within me.' We need to try a little harder, folks.
2) Spiritual defilement. Romans 12.2- Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. What is your mind focused on? That is where your heart is. I believe you need to begin your day with the Word and prayer every day. The battle is that intense.
3) Testimony defilement. I have always been more impressed with those that walk steady for the Lord and speak freely for Jesus when given the opportunity, than those who bang a drum loudly for all to see their spiritual show. Remember something: If we are salt and light in our community, we are trying to live and speak in such a way to influence people to come to Christ as He speaks to them. We are not trying to color our society to look like everyone is Christian, when so many are leaving this world without Jesus. The faithful church has always beamed the brightest and stood the strongest when they were planted and growing in a society that did not agree with them. Historically, the church has been the weakest when it tried to color a community without God as if God was that community's priority.
Let's be real, folks. People very close to us and that we know well need Jesus desperately. Let's live our lives to stand strong without the traps of defilement in the world that God has planted us in.
I have always been impressed with Daniel...I even like his name. The kingdom put them on a special diet, but Daniel felt that he would be defiled by eating and drinking what they gave him and he refused to. Daniel 1.8 states it this way: But Daniel resolved that he would not defile himself withthe king's food, or with the wine that he drank. Therefore he asked the chief of the eunuchs to allow him not to defile himself.
Oh, that the people of God would determine not to be defiled by the traps of this world. There are so many ways we can be defiled. I think about three this morning:
1) Physical defilement. I Cor. 6.19 reminds us that our body is a temple of the Holy Spirit and that we are not our own. We need to glorify God with our body. That includes the things we take in and the things that we participate in. The standards of this world is very low. The standards of our own culture and neighborhoods grow lower by the day. Status quo is ungodly, wrong, and never justified. It may not be so much 'what would Jesus do', as it is, 'what am I going to do now that Jesus is within me.' We need to try a little harder, folks.
2) Spiritual defilement. Romans 12.2- Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. What is your mind focused on? That is where your heart is. I believe you need to begin your day with the Word and prayer every day. The battle is that intense.
3) Testimony defilement. I have always been more impressed with those that walk steady for the Lord and speak freely for Jesus when given the opportunity, than those who bang a drum loudly for all to see their spiritual show. Remember something: If we are salt and light in our community, we are trying to live and speak in such a way to influence people to come to Christ as He speaks to them. We are not trying to color our society to look like everyone is Christian, when so many are leaving this world without Jesus. The faithful church has always beamed the brightest and stood the strongest when they were planted and growing in a society that did not agree with them. Historically, the church has been the weakest when it tried to color a community without God as if God was that community's priority.
Let's be real, folks. People very close to us and that we know well need Jesus desperately. Let's live our lives to stand strong without the traps of defilement in the world that God has planted us in.
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
With Jesus and A Cup of Coffee
Today we read Lamentations 3-5 and Revelation 15.
Why do I get up at 5 AM every morning? Why do I get up an hour before the rest of my family?
I read the reason this morning in Lamentations 3.22-24-
The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases;
his mercies never come to an end;
23 they are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.
24 “The Lord is my portion,” says my soul,
“therefore I will hope in him.”
Why do I get up at 5 AM every morning? Why do I get up an hour before the rest of my family?
I read the reason this morning in Lamentations 3.22-24-
The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases;
his mercies never come to an end;
23 they are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.
24 “The Lord is my portion,” says my soul,
“therefore I will hope in him.”
He is better every morning than a cup of coffee....He is better every morning WITH a cup of coffee.
Enjoy His Mercies every morning.
Monday, September 9, 2013
Patiently Enduring
Today we read Lamentations 1-2, Obadiah, and Revelation 14.
Revelation 14.12 includes a recurring phrase and an encouragement that is a major thrust in the whole of book of Revelation: Here is a call for the endurance of the saints, those who keep the commandments of God and their faith in Jesus.
Over and over again in the book of Revelation, troubled, harassed, discouraged believers are encouraged that this is not all there is. God knows your circumstances. I have no doubt that such a message is a timeless truth that we can hang our hat on today.
Be faithful in your valley. Endure for your Savior. Keep looking to Him. This is not all there is!
Celebrate the hope that you have in your Savior today.
Revelation 14.12 includes a recurring phrase and an encouragement that is a major thrust in the whole of book of Revelation: Here is a call for the endurance of the saints, those who keep the commandments of God and their faith in Jesus.
Over and over again in the book of Revelation, troubled, harassed, discouraged believers are encouraged that this is not all there is. God knows your circumstances. I have no doubt that such a message is a timeless truth that we can hang our hat on today.
Be faithful in your valley. Endure for your Savior. Keep looking to Him. This is not all there is!
Celebrate the hope that you have in your Savior today.
Sunday, September 8, 2013
Mark It Up
Today we read Jeremiah 42-44, Psalm 48, and Revelation 13.
Oh, don't you love the imagery of the book of Revelation! Years ago I was watching local Christian television and they were having a fund raiser. If you ever watch the national Christian television while they are having their telethons, think about such an event happening on that homemade, local level and you will get the idea of what I am talking about. Their guest that night was an artist who had done several paintings of the scenes of Revelation. Although the artist was good and the renderings were a faithful attempt at the scenes as described, I could not help but think: You cannot paint or draw the scenes of Revelation. They are described the way they are (count the word "like" in Revelation) to try to put the infinite images of the spiritual world and of heaven into some finite description that we can somehow grasp. However, human words cannot fully describe such scenes. Not the half has been told.
Another thing to remember when reading Revelation (as well as miracles, parables, and narratives) is always ask the question: What is this written for? Of all the descriptions of Revelation 13 and the explanations and identities and time frames of these beasts, notice the stated point of this passage: Here is a call for the endurance and faith of the saints. (Rev. 13:10). We must stand firm. That was the message for the 1st century, 21st century, and every century in between and any future ones. The message is a timeless message. Revelation's message is not just for the last generation unless you include all since the ascension of Christ and until the return of Christ as the last generation. This message was for them and is for us. Endure! Stand Strong! Have faith!
One way to make sure you are standing strong is to check your allegiances. A very familiar passage that is brought up in Rev. 13 is the mark of the beast passage (v.16-17): Also it causes all, both small and great, both rich and poor, both free and slave,[e]to be marked on the right hand or the forehead, 17so that no one can buy or sell unless he has the mark, that is, the name of the beast or the number of its name. Have you ever heard anything like that before? Anywhere else in Scripture? I will tell you what it reminds me of. It reminds me of the Shema, one of the most popular passages of Scripture in the Old Testament for the Jews and one of the most popular in the 1st century among Christians. It is found in Deuteronomy 6: 4 and following: 4"Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one.[a] 5You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. 6And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart....8 You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes." I will always believe that the concern there is not the hand or the forehead, but the activity (symbolized by the hand) and the thought pattern (symbolized by the forehead- keeping it ever before you) of doing everything that you do, whether in word, deed, or thought to the glory of God. Many Jews made the mistake that this meant tying Scripture on your arm or head, however, if you don't digest and live by it, what difference does it make?
One way to make sure you are standing strong is to check your allegiances. A very familiar passage that is brought up in Rev. 13 is the mark of the beast passage (v.16-17): Also it causes all, both small and great, both rich and poor, both free and slave,[e]to be marked on the right hand or the forehead, 17so that no one can buy or sell unless he has the mark, that is, the name of the beast or the number of its name. Have you ever heard anything like that before? Anywhere else in Scripture? I will tell you what it reminds me of. It reminds me of the Shema, one of the most popular passages of Scripture in the Old Testament for the Jews and one of the most popular in the 1st century among Christians. It is found in Deuteronomy 6: 4 and following: 4"Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one.[a] 5You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. 6And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart....8 You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes." I will always believe that the concern there is not the hand or the forehead, but the activity (symbolized by the hand) and the thought pattern (symbolized by the forehead- keeping it ever before you) of doing everything that you do, whether in word, deed, or thought to the glory of God. Many Jews made the mistake that this meant tying Scripture on your arm or head, however, if you don't digest and live by it, what difference does it make?
Now once you realize that the first audience of the Revelation (those seven churches in Asia Minor under the influence, power, and persecution of the Roman Empire) knew this Shema passage "like the back of their hands" (excuse the pun, it was not intended), then you realize how they would interpret such a passage as that in Rev. 13:16-17. I have heard this described as a tattoo, a barcode, a computer chip, and I bet some are saying now, a scan code. Those that do, I believe are missing the point, just like the Jews did when they tied their boxes of Scripture on their hands and heads. The point is: where does your allegiance lie? Are you sold on the concepts, the plans, and the hopes of this wicked world or are you sold out in your thought and action on the things of God? Where does your allegiance lie? By what authority (the right hand is the one of authority) do you do what you do? Oh, let me once again remind you of the point of this passage as it is found in Rev. 13:10- Here is a call for the endurance and faith of the saints. Don't side with a lost and dying and manipulative and hellbent world! Align with Jesus! Endure! Stand Strong! Sell Out! Live it today! Be marked by Christ, not by the World!
Saturday, September 7, 2013
War With the Dragon
Today we read 2 Kings 25, 2 Chronicles 36, Jeremiah 40 & 41, and Revelation 12.
Revelation 12.17- Then the dragon became furious with the woman and went off to make war on the rest of her offspring, on those who keep the commandments of God and hold to the testimony of Jesus. And he stood on the sand of the sea.
We are in a spiritual war, friends. The good news is in Christ, we win! Fight like winners today! Stand strong in The Lord!....
And a great day!
Revelation 12.17- Then the dragon became furious with the woman and went off to make war on the rest of her offspring, on those who keep the commandments of God and hold to the testimony of Jesus. And he stood on the sand of the sea.
We are in a spiritual war, friends. The good news is in Christ, we win! Fight like winners today! Stand strong in The Lord!....
And a great day!
Friday, September 6, 2013
A 'Bonafide' Witness
Today we read Ezekiel 29-32 and Revelation 11.
In Revelation 11 God sends out his two witnesses. Two witnesses are better than one. They are 'bonafide.' Charges would not be seriously charged without two witnesses in the day Revelation was written. Therefore, you need two for it to be legitimate. Notice something else: they have power concerning the rain. Who does that sound like? Elijah had such authority, remember? Elijah has always been the 'chief' prophet. That witness represents the prophets.
Did you notice what else they can do? The plagues of blood...who does that sound like? Remember Moses and his struggle with Pharoah. God used Moses to bring the law to the people and he has always represented the law. In the day that Revelation was written God's Word was referred to as 'the law and the prophets.' Therefore, we understand that these olive tree lampstands proclaim the Word of God or shed light on the Word of God. Notice what happens when the world tries to snuff out the Word of God. You can see it in Revelation 11.11- But after the three and a half days a breath of life from God entered them, and they stood up on their feet, and great fear fell on those who saw them.
What is the message to all the ages? You cannot snuff out the Word of God. The testimony of the Lord may grow dormant in one region for a time or another region for another time, but God's Word will always stand and it can never be stopped.
You can let your life stand on It and share It as you go without any hesitation. Let's do that today!
In Revelation 11 God sends out his two witnesses. Two witnesses are better than one. They are 'bonafide.' Charges would not be seriously charged without two witnesses in the day Revelation was written. Therefore, you need two for it to be legitimate. Notice something else: they have power concerning the rain. Who does that sound like? Elijah had such authority, remember? Elijah has always been the 'chief' prophet. That witness represents the prophets.
Did you notice what else they can do? The plagues of blood...who does that sound like? Remember Moses and his struggle with Pharoah. God used Moses to bring the law to the people and he has always represented the law. In the day that Revelation was written God's Word was referred to as 'the law and the prophets.' Therefore, we understand that these olive tree lampstands proclaim the Word of God or shed light on the Word of God. Notice what happens when the world tries to snuff out the Word of God. You can see it in Revelation 11.11- But after the three and a half days a breath of life from God entered them, and they stood up on their feet, and great fear fell on those who saw them.
What is the message to all the ages? You cannot snuff out the Word of God. The testimony of the Lord may grow dormant in one region for a time or another region for another time, but God's Word will always stand and it can never be stopped.
You can let your life stand on It and share It as you go without any hesitation. Let's do that today!
Thursday, September 5, 2013
Take It In
Today we read Ezekiel 25-28 and Revelation 10.
We read some tough passages today. However, a few verses stand out and give us easy application. The key verse in my reading today is Revelation 10.10- And I took the little scroll from the hand of the angel and ate it. It was sweet as honey in my mouth, but when I had eaten it my stomach was made bitter.
This little scroll is a Word from God for John to take in and consume. He has shared from the larger seven sealed scroll but this is a smaller portion. There is an emphasis on him taking it in. It is sweet, just like the promises of Scripture. It is bitter, just like the judgment of God. You cannot...should not...preach one without the other.
Adrian Rogers, the classic, extraordinaire preacher, put it this way:
If you preach the love of God without the wrath of God, you are dishonest.
If you preach the wrath of God without the love of God, you are dishonest.
Remember, if you take part of the truth and make part of the truth all of the truth, that part of the truth becomes an untruth. We are to preach all the Word of God, the bitter and the sweet.
May God keep us from loveless truth or truthless love.
How do you put it better? The only thing that I would add would be that we not only preach it, we live it out and heed it. Digest His Word today and live off His Truth.
We read some tough passages today. However, a few verses stand out and give us easy application. The key verse in my reading today is Revelation 10.10- And I took the little scroll from the hand of the angel and ate it. It was sweet as honey in my mouth, but when I had eaten it my stomach was made bitter.
This little scroll is a Word from God for John to take in and consume. He has shared from the larger seven sealed scroll but this is a smaller portion. There is an emphasis on him taking it in. It is sweet, just like the promises of Scripture. It is bitter, just like the judgment of God. You cannot...should not...preach one without the other.
Adrian Rogers, the classic, extraordinaire preacher, put it this way:
If you preach the love of God without the wrath of God, you are dishonest.
If you preach the wrath of God without the love of God, you are dishonest.
Remember, if you take part of the truth and make part of the truth all of the truth, that part of the truth becomes an untruth. We are to preach all the Word of God, the bitter and the sweet.
May God keep us from loveless truth or truthless love.
How do you put it better? The only thing that I would add would be that we not only preach it, we live it out and heed it. Digest His Word today and live off His Truth.
Wednesday, September 4, 2013
Standing In The Breach
Today we read Ezekiel 22-24 and Revelation 9.
Ezekiel 22.30- And I sought for a man among them who should build up the wall and stand in the breach before me for the land, that I should not destroy it, but I found none.
When society becomes godless, God wants some people...some person....to stand in the gap, the breach, in the weak spot for the things of Him. Who will stand?
Many times Christians won't stand. Many times they spend their time and energy standing for or against things that are not Gospel centered concerns. Who will stand in his home....at her work...in his community...before her neighbor and make a difference for the Lord?
May God find such people in us.
Ezekiel 22.30- And I sought for a man among them who should build up the wall and stand in the breach before me for the land, that I should not destroy it, but I found none.
When society becomes godless, God wants some people...some person....to stand in the gap, the breach, in the weak spot for the things of Him. Who will stand?
Many times Christians won't stand. Many times they spend their time and energy standing for or against things that are not Gospel centered concerns. Who will stand in his home....at her work...in his community...before her neighbor and make a difference for the Lord?
May God find such people in us.
Tuesday, September 3, 2013
The Beginning of Education
Today we read Ezekiel 20 & 21, Psalm 111, and Revelation 8.
Education is so very important. I believe it ought to be a high priority. Every educational opportunity that you get should be heeded wisely and taken in and applied, when appropriate.
Where does education begin? What do you first teach a child? What do you continue to reinforce throughout your life? Psalm 111 shows us where the origin of education is:
Psalm 111.10 - The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom all those who practice it have a good understanding. His praise endures forever!
Education is so very important. I believe it ought to be a high priority. Every educational opportunity that you get should be heeded wisely and taken in and applied, when appropriate.
Where does education begin? What do you first teach a child? What do you continue to reinforce throughout your life? Psalm 111 shows us where the origin of education is:
Psalm 111.10 - The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom all those who practice it have a good understanding. His praise endures forever!
Start with the Lord and stay with the Lord. He is a wonderful base to build on and guide to be led by. Go with God! Grow Wise in Him!
Monday, September 2, 2013
Turn and Live!
Today we read Ezekiel 17-19 and Revelation 7.
They say it is better late than never....well, maybe....but I want to share tonight what The Lord showed me this morning.
It came from Ezekiel 18.31-32 - Cast away from you all the transgressions that you have committed, and make yourselves a new heart and a new spirit! Why will you die, O house of Israel? 32 For I have no pleasure in the death of anyone, declares the Lord God; so turn, and live.”
No one else is responsible for your sin. I am responsible for my sin. Our sins are on us. Thank God He forgives and makes us clean and new.
Let's give Him the credit. Let's live forgiven and clean lives! Turn and Live!
They say it is better late than never....well, maybe....but I want to share tonight what The Lord showed me this morning.
It came from Ezekiel 18.31-32 - Cast away from you all the transgressions that you have committed, and make yourselves a new heart and a new spirit! Why will you die, O house of Israel? 32 For I have no pleasure in the death of anyone, declares the Lord God; so turn, and live.”
No one else is responsible for your sin. I am responsible for my sin. Our sins are on us. Thank God He forgives and makes us clean and new.
Let's give Him the credit. Let's live forgiven and clean lives! Turn and Live!
Sunday, September 1, 2013
A Preamble to Worship
Today we read Ezekiel 15 & 16, Psalm 70, and Revelation 6.
I hope you are preparing your heart for worship this morning. Psalm 70.4 is a great preamble to our time together: May all who seek you rejoice and be glad in you! May those who love your salvation
say evermore, “God is great!”
I hope you are preparing your heart for worship this morning. Psalm 70.4 is a great preamble to our time together: May all who seek you rejoice and be glad in you! May those who love your salvation
say evermore, “God is great!”
Our reading today is filled with a lot of action. Between Ezekiel and Revelation, your mind may be reeling. However, couched in between, is a call for satisfactory worship.
Let's worship Him today.
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