Daily Devotions

9915 West Argent Street, Pasco WA 99301

March 15, 2010

Really Good News!

The daily news is bleak and I need not remind you about the dire straits of our world. God has good news for us! He promises of better days ahead. Read on and be hopeful!

Isaiah 65:17-21

Thus says the LORD: Lo, I am about to create new heavens and a new earth; the things of the past shall not be remembered or come to mind. Instead, there shall always be rejoicing and happiness in what I create; for I create Jerusalem to be a joy and its people to be a delight; I will rejoice in Jerusalem and exult in my people. No longer shall the sound of weeping be heard there, or the sound of crying; No longer shall there be in it an infant who lives but a few days, or an old man who does not round out his full lifetime; He dies a mere youth who reaches but a hundred years, and he who fails of a hundred shall be thought accursed.  They shall live in the houses they build, and eat the fruit of the vineyards they plant.

Consider

1.There are at least seven promises of better days ahead in the above passage. How many can you find?

2.Of the above promises which ones bless you the most? Why?

3.Read Revelation chapter 22-23 about the fulfillment of the above promised good news.

Prayer

God, I rejoice in the Good News you bring to this broken world. Thank you for a taste of a better life to come right now because of Jesus’ great love. Help me to live in hope! Amen.

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March 12, 2010

Texting and God

I am joining the “post-modern generation” and have learned to text. I still do not understand why people text because for this old guy it is seems so much easier to talk on the phone. But one thing I am learning about texting is that you need to keep the text messages short and use lots of abbreviations. For example TTYL means “talk to you later”; TMI= “too much information”; 2GTBT= “too good to be true”; OJ = “only joking”; PUKS=“pick up kids”; QQ = “quick question”; SC= “stay cool”… there are hundreds more I need to learn to make texting an efficient means of communication.

Jesus was in a sense texting the scribes when he gave a much abbreviated answer to what does the whole Bible mean? Read Jesus’ text message below:

Mark 12:28-31

One of the scribes came to Jesus and asked him, “Which is the first of all the commandments?”

Jesus replied, “The first is this: Hear, O Israel! The Lord our God is Lord alone!

You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart,

with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.

The second is this: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.

There is no other commandment greater than these.”

Consider

1.Do you understand Jesus’ text message?

2.Why not text someone today with this msg (message).

Prayer

Jesus, thank you for texting us about what is important in life—namely loving you and loving others. TTYL Lord.

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March 11, 2010

Hard of Hearing

A new TV ad says, “Often people do not know they need hearing aids—even baby boomers. Now, that is too close to home—ouch!  To lure me to try out the hearing aid the company offers “free hearing tests.” 

I will not admit that I have people repeat their words to me and that I also read lips.  In our reading today, God predicts that his people will become hard of hearing with disastrous spiritual results.

Jeremiah 7: 23-28

Thus says the LORD: This is what I commanded my people:

Listen to my voice; then I will be your God and you shall be my people.

Walk in all the ways that I command you, so that you may prosper.

But they obeyed not, nor did they pay heed. They walked in the hardness of their evil hearts and turned their backs, not their faces, to me. From the day that your fathers left the land of Egypt even to this day, I have sent you untiringly all my servants the prophets. Yet they have not obeyed me nor paid heed; they have stiffened their necks and done worse than their fathers. When you speak all these words to them, they will not listen to you either; when you call to them, they will not answer you. Say to them: This is the nation that does not listen to the voice of the LORD, its God, or take correction. Faithfulness has disappeared; the word itself is banished from their speech.

Consider

1.How is your spiritual hearing?

2.Are you listening to God’s voice?

3.His word?

4.His commands?

Prayer

God, help me to hear you when you speak to me.  Amen.

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March 10, 2010

Truly Wise and Intelligent People

Truly wise and intelligent people follow God’s decrees—plain and simple! In our reading today see how may reasons you can find that it is indeed wise to follow God in loving obedience.

Deuteronomy 4:1, 5-9

Moses spoke to the people and said: “Now, Israel, hear the statutes and decrees which I am teaching you to observe, that you may live, and may enter in and take possession of the land  which the LORD, the God of your fathers, is giving you. Therefore, I teach you the statutes and decrees as the LORD, my God, has commanded me, that you may observe them in the land you are entering to occupy. Observe them carefully, for thus will you give evidence of your wisdom and intelligence to the nations, who will hear of all these statutes and say,  This great nation is truly a wise and intelligent people.’ For what great nation is there that has gods so close to it as the LORD, our God, is to us whenever we call upon him?  Or what great nation has statutes and decrees that are as just as this whole law which I am setting before you today? “However, take care and be earnestly on your guard not to forget the things which your own eyes have seen, nor let them slip from your memory as long as you live, but teach them to your children and to your children’s children.”

Consider

1.Of all the reasons to follow God’s statutes and decrees—what one catches your attention the most? Why?

2.What are the rewards for following God? Again how many can you find in the above text?

3.How is our God different than the ‘gods’  in the above text?

4.How can you “guard against forgetting God’s ways”? 

5.How does Desert Springs fit into that guarding?

Prayer

God, you are the most intelligent entity in the universe. It makes sense to me to follow you and your ways. Thank you for the Bible that gives us a new and smart way to live. Help me to pass on your ways to my children and influence others to follow you too. Amen.

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March 9, 2010

“The Stickiness of Unforgiving”

I love to eat pork spareribs slathered with barbeque sauce.  I load the table with napkins and a bib to protect my shirt and dig in. Table etiquette rules must be put aside because these morsels of culinary delight are best eaten by bare hands. During the feast I wipe my hands often and after the dinner wash my hands of the red stickiness. Try as I may there always seem so be a residue of a red moustache and chin and food stains on my shirt (so much for the bib).

I find that un-forgiveness is a residue that stains my soul. Try as I may…I miss a spot here and there and need a fresh towelette! I think this is the reason Jesus instructs us to forgive often—seventy-times!  Forgiveness begins by allowing God to expose our need and then we may have to go back often to forgive the offense and yes, ourselves, too.

Matthew 18:21

Peter approached Jesus and asked him, “Lord, if my brother sins against me, how often must I forgive him? As many as seven times?”

Jesus answered, “I say to you, not seven times but seventy-seven times.

Consider

1.What do you make of Jesus’ instruction to forgive seventy-seven times?

2.Do you find it difficult to forgive others? Yourself? If so try forgiving repeatedly!

Prayer

Jesus, you instructed us to forgive so that we may be forgiven (recall the Lord’s Prayer). Help us to forgive as often as the stains of un-forgiveness crop up in our memories.  Yes, Lord—up to seventy-seven times!  Amen.

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March 8, 2010

Passionate Soul Yearning

Have you ever been in a place (spiritually speaking) where you yearned for God? I have!  Life’s demands and testing often bring into question whether or not God cares. In these times I often have feelings of helplessness and long for “normal” times and recall evidence of God’s warm presence. Know this; God cares and you can still praise him as David does in the following Psalm.

Psalm 63 (A psalm of David. When he was in the Desert of Judah.)

1 O God, you are my God,

      earnestly I seek you;

      my soul thirsts for you,

      my body longs for you,

      in a dry and weary land

      where there is no water.

2 I have seen you in the sanctuary

      and beheld your power and your glory.

3 Because your love is better than life,

      my lips will glorify you.

4 I will praise you as long as I live,

      and in your name I will lift up my hands.

Consider

1.Note: David is honest with his feelings in the above Psalm. How does he address his feelings?

2.Have you praised ever God when you have not felt like doing so? What happened as a result of your worship?

3.Why not lift up your hands now as your sacrifice of praise to God giving thanks to him whether you “feel” like it or are facing tough situations.

Prayer

God, I praise you with hands outstretched and words of praise on my tongue for your boundless love for me. Help me to trust you rather than my feelings. Amen.

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March 5, 2010

Remember When?

An e-mail I received was about the “Good Ole Days”--- the remember when stories-- that warm the heart and jolt the memories. Here are a few: “Remember when it was OK to go outside and play in the neighborhood as a child and your parents did not worry about your safety?  Remember when we rode bicycles without helmets, shoulder, and knee pads and we all survived? Remember when gasoline was 23 cents a gallon?"   The list goes on and on.

In today’s reading we are encouraged to remember the days when God has blessed us and praise him for his goodness.

Psalm105:1-5

1 Give thanks to the LORD, call on his name;

      make known among the nations what he has done.

2 Sing to him, sing praise to him;

      tell of all his wonderful acts.

3 Glory in his holy name;

      let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice.

4 Look to the LORD and his strength;

      seek his face always.

5 Remember the wonders he has done,

      his miracles, and the judgments he pronounced,

Consider

1.         What memories do you have of God’s rich blessings? 

2.       Why not tell someone today about how God has touched your life?

3.         Sing a song (hymn) now as your thankful worship to God!

Prayer (perhaps you may want to sing the following words)

“Thank you God for saving my soul.  Thank you God, for making me whole.  Thank you God for giving to me, thy great salvation so rich and free! “

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March 4, 2010

A Study in Contrasts

A good teaching technique is to teach by contrast. My dad used this method with me. He said, “Son, if you do not get a good education, you will end up like a bum on the street and if you do well in school you can be well-employed and successful in all of your life.” No way did I want to be a bum so I stayed in school—the rest is history.  In today’s reading Jeremiah uses contrasts to teach us how to love life the God’s way.  Read on and see what you learn.

Jeremiah 17:5-10

Thus says the LORD:

Cursed is the man who trusts in human beings,

who seeks his strength in flesh,

whose heart turns away from the LORD.

He is like a barren bush in the desert

that enjoys no change of season,

But stands in a lava waste,

a salt and empty earth.

Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD,

whose hope is the LORD.

He is like a tree planted beside the waters

that stretches out its roots to the stream:

It fears not the heat when it comes,

its leaves stay green;

In the year of drought it shows no distress,

but still bears fruit.

More tortuous than all else is the human heart,

beyond remedy; who can understand it?

I, the LORD, alone probe the mind

and test the heart,

To reward everyone according to his ways,

according to the merit of his deeds.

Consider

1.     “Blessings and curses” are contrasted in the above page. What is the principle behind being “blessed.”?

2.      Do you really trust the Lord or your own strength and wisdom?

3.     When the “heat” comes into your life do you stress out or trust the Lord?

4.      other observations…

Prayer

God, today you are giving me choices between being blessed in you or going it on my own. Help me to trust in you and find ways to serve you and others. Amen.

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March 3, 2010

Disappointing News

Jesus tells dashes the hopes and expectations of his disciples for he shares with them how he will be put to death—not good news at all. Instead of a crown as “King of kings and Lord of lords” Jesus will receive a cross. The news must have crushed the disciples! Yet as the bad news come to pass; Christians throughout the centuries have relished the cross as our only hope. The cross becomes Good News for Jesus died to save us from our sin. Hallelujah! 

Matthew 20: 17-19

As Jesus was going up to Jerusalem, he took the Twelve disciples aside by themselves, and said to them on the way,  “Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be handed over to the chief priests

and the scribes, and they will condemn him to death, and hand him over to the Gentiles to be mocked and scourged and crucified, and he will be raised on the third day.”

Consider

1.     How do you handle disappointing news?

2.     What does the cross of Jesus mean to you?

Prayer

God of mercy, justice and truth reveal your love for me today so that I can see Good News in the disappointing new of the cross. In my struggles Lord, help me to find courage and strength to know that you have been there before me. Thank you for the cross you bore on my behalf. Amen.

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March 2, 2010

Whiter than Snow

When I was a kid my mother washed all our clothes in Tide soap—for mom Tide was the best for brighter whites and brighter colors. (Aside: I do not have stock in Tide). The point is all soap companies promote their products as superior to their competition. How many commercialS have you seen with side-by-side comparisons? Yet not one soap product promised to clean “whiter than snow.”

Yet God has soap for your soul and mine. Do you want a “whiter than snow “ cleanser for your soul?  Then come to Jesus! He removes the ugly spots of shame, guilt and remorse—for all your sins of omissions and commissions.  He died to remove the awful stains of your sin and mine.

Reading:    Isaiah 1:18

Come now, let us set things right,

says the LORD:

Though your sins be like scarlet,

they may become white as snow;

Though they be crimson red,

they may become white as wool.

Consider:

1.   Do you know the joy of sin forgiven?

2.   Do you have the assurance of sin forgiven? Read 1 John 1:8-2:2

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, thank you for dying for my sin on the cross. Forgive me my sin and keep my soul pure - “whiter than snow.”  I know I can come to you for forgiveness and restoration when I falter. You are so good. I love you. Amen.

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March 1, 2010

Monday’s Check List

Perhaps (like me) you are one who has a weekly routine that is based upon work and home responsibilities. Monday you go to work, Tuesday grocery shopping after work, Wednesday is filled with business meetings, Thursday kids to soccer practice after work, Friday family night, Saturday chores around the home and more shopping, Sunday church. O yeah! And add a date night with your spouse.  The above list is typical and your list may be busier and leaves you at the end to the week tired only to repeat the routine again and again…

Why not think differently. Why not have a theme for each day of the week: Mercy Monday; Tolerant Tuesday; Worshipful Wednesday; Thankful Thursday; Faith in God Friday….

So your weekly schedule now is based upon godly attitudes…which I think will help turn your week of routine to one of joy.

Luke 6:36-38

Jesus said to his disciples:

“Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.

“Stop judging and you will not be judged.

Stop condemning and you will not be condemned.

Forgive and you will be forgiven.

Give and gifts will be given to you;

a good measure, packed together, shaken down, and overflowing,

will be poured into your lap.

For the measure with which you measure

will in return be measured out to you.”

Consider

1.       How many inner attitudes can you find in the above reading?

2.       Which ones do you need to work on?

3.       What are the rewards of a godly disposition and practice?

Prayer

God, as I face of week of obligations and responsibilities please help me not get bound up with a “Ground Hog Day” life.

Infuse my life with the Holy Spirit and instill in me godly attitudes so that life is a joy. Amen.

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February 26, 2010

Religion Gone Sour

Jesus was not a friend of the contemporary religion of his day because it did not produce righteousness—right relationship with God and reconciliation with others. The religion of Jesus’ day was a legalistic system (rules and regulations) that produced a shallow self-righteousness. The biggest reason Jesus confronted the religious system is that it rejected him.

Read on and see what Jesus expects from our lives:

Matthew 5:20-26

Jesus said to his disciples:  “I tell you, unless your righteousness surpasses that

of the scribes and Pharisees, you will not enter into the Kingdom of heaven.

“You have heard that it was said to your ancestors, You shall not kill; and whoever kills will be liable to judgment.  But I say to you, whoever is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment,

and whoever says to his brother, Raqa,  will be answerable to the Sanhedrin, and whoever says, ‘You fool,’ will be liable to fiery Gehenna. Therefore, if you bring your gift to the altar, and there recall that your brother has anything against you, leave your gift there at the altar, go first and be reconciled with your brother, and then come and offer your gift. Settle with your opponent quickly while on the way to court. Otherwise your opponent will hand you over to the judge,

and the judge will hand you over to the guard, and you will be thrown into prison.

Amen, I say to you, you will not be released until you have paid the last penny.”

Consider

1.       Our Lord’s focus was on heart-change not mere external rule keeping. Is your heart changed toward people whom you may be in conflict?

2.       Read Matthew 18:15-20 for the process Jesus recommends for reconciliation.

3.       Is your heart right with others?

Prayer

God, I desire to be right with you and others. Help me to live in your peace and forgiveness so that I may be a peacemaker with those who oppose me.  Allow me to see my own shortcoming and be tender with all people. Amen.

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February 25, 2010

God is Good, All the Time God is Good!

Jesus shared a vital message with his disciples—God is good! Goodness means God is love and this love is expansive. God has your well-being in mind. Since God is good,  Jesus encourages his followers to seek to know God, his tender care and provision.

Matthew 7:7-11

Jesus said to his disciples: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives; and the one who seeks, finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.

Which one of you would hand his son a stone when he asked for a loaf of bread, or a snake when he asked for a fish?

If you then, who are wicked, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give good things to those who ask him.

Consider

1.     Have you discovered God’s goodness?

2.     Do you thank God often for his kindnesses to you?

3.     Do you seek to know God more fully?

Prayer

God, your goodness amazes me! You are not an impersonal uncaring God... (why not complete this prayer in a spirit of thanksgiving)……

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February 24, 2010

Living in Your Own Skin -- A Plea for Forgiveness

Are you comfortable living in your own skin? I deeply regret some of the things I have done in my life as well as the things I have left undone—sins of commission and sins of omission.

In our reading today, David is extremely uncomfortable living in his own skin because of his sin of adultery and murder (adultery with Bathsheba and murder of her husband Uriah).  David writes the following Psalm that underscores his heart felt repentance and earnestly pleas to God for forgiveness.  Being forgiven by God is the only way you and I can live comfortably in our own skin.

Psalm 51: 1-2, 9, 10, 11-12

1 Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love;

      according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions.

2 Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin.

3 For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me.

9 Hide your face from my sins and blot out all my iniquity.

10 Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.

11 Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me.

12 Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.

Consider

1.       Do you know the forgiveness of God? Read 1 John 1:9

2.       Do you know that paid the penalty for your sin by dying for our sins?

3.       Do you know the joy of sin forgiven?

Prayer

God, I come to you now asking you to forgive my sin (known and unknown). I am deeply sorry for the things I have done and left undone that offend you. Cleanse me according to your promise (1 John 1:9).

Sustain me with your love. Amen.

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February 23, 2010

And you thought….

And you thought that reading today’s devotional would be ordinary. Never! Let me let you on to a little secret. If you simply read the word every day with even the teeniest bit of faith your life will change radically.  Over time you will discover a passion for knowing and serving God because the Word you read every day is in fact God’s Word and it always brings new spiritual life—always!

Isaiah 55:1-10

Thus says the LORD: Just as from the heavens

the rain and snow come down And do not return there

till they have watered the earth, making it fertile and fruitful,

Giving seed to the one who sows and bread to the one who eats,

So shall my word be that goes forth from my mouth;

It shall not return to me void, but shall do my will,

achieving the end for which I sent it.

Consider

1.    What did you eat today for breakfast? What did you eat in the above passage?

2.      How has God been speaking to you lately?

3.      If someone were to ask you are you doing God’s will, what would you say?

4.     Notice the time gap in the seasons of sowing and harvest. So be patient.

Prayer

God, I thank you for the Bible. I want to feast on your Word so that I may grow thereby and serve you and others well. Amen

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February 22, 2010

“I Would Like a Box for My Food”

You know the restaurant routine, “please may I have a box for my food.” In short order the food server returns with a Styrofoam box for the food you were not able to eat. In today’s reading there is extra food left on your plate—for it is impossible to digest all of Jesus’ words. Read on for fine dining.

Matthew 16:13-19

When Jesus went into the region of Caesarea Philippi he asked his disciples,

“Who do people say that the Son of Man is?”

They replied, “Some say John the Baptist, others Elijah,

still others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.”

He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?”

Simon Peter said in reply,

“You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”

Jesus said to him in reply, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah.

For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my heavenly Father.

And so I say to you, you are Peter,

and upon this rock I will build my Church,

and the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it.

I will give you the keys to the Kingdom of heaven.

Whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.”

Consider

1.    Peter finally recognizes Jesus as the promised Messiah. Is he your Messiah too?

2.     Jesus promises to build the church on the confession of Peter.

3.     How is Jesus building the church you worship at?

4.    In the second part of the reading, Jesus speaks of “loosing and binding”—what does that mean in terms of doing God’s will?

Prayer

Lord, you have given me too much food on my plate today. Help me to digest what is needful and return often to your Word for my daily bread. Please reveal yourself to me as Messiah, Lord, Savior, and Friend. Help me to follow you always. Amen.

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February 19, 2010

“Slow Down Fast”

Fasting is a religious practice of going without food or water for a period of time. The purpose of fasting is not some sort of “hunger strike” to gain God’s attention; rather fasting is a time whereby God gets our undivided attention. Read Isaiah 58:1-9a to view a proper fast.

Matthew 9:14-15

The disciples of John approached Jesus and said,

“Why do we and the Pharisees fast much,

but your disciples do not fast?”

Jesus answered them, “Can the wedding guests mourn

as long as the bridegroom is with them?

The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them,

and then they will fast.”

Consider

How does God get your undivided attention?

Are you too busy to listen to God?

Read Isaiah 58: 1-9a and glean practical advice of what God expects from his people.

Prayer

God I know the pace of life often siphons away my quiet time with you. Help me to slow down fast. Amen.

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February 18, 2010

Good Choices

The choices we make in life have consequences. As parents we advise our children to make good choices. We guide them carefully with love and compassion because we know that poor choices result in all sorts of negative results. Likewise, God counsels us to make choices that produce blessings and successes. Read on.

Deuteronomy 30:15-20

Moses said to the people: “Today I have set before you life and prosperity, death and doom.

If you obey the commandments of the LORD, your God, which I enjoin on you today,

loving him, and walking in his ways, and keeping his commandments, statutes and decrees,

you will live and grow numerous, and the LORD, your God, will bless you in the land you are entering to occupy. If, however, you turn away your hearts and will not listen, but are led astray and adore and serve other gods, I tell you now that you will certainly perish; you will not have a long life on the land that you are crossing the Jordan to enter and occupy. I call heaven and earth today to witness against you: I have set before you life and death, the blessing and the curse. Choose life, then, that you and your descendants may live, by loving the LORD, your God,

heeding his voice, and holding fast to him. For that will mean life for you, a long life for you to live on the land that the LORD swore he would give to your fathers Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.”

Consider

What kinds of blessings/successes does God offer his people in the above passage for making good choices?

What are the conditions to receive God’s blessings?

Are you making good choices in your life?

Prayer

God, help me to follow your commands (to make good choices). Amen

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February 17, 2010 - Ash Wednesday

Getting Right with God

Today, the Apostle Paul makes an appeal for us to be “reconciled to God.”

I find it the human condition that even church people (including this pastor) need to be reconciled to God. We tend to drift from our faith and easily lose our luster, joy, and obedience. Faith too easily morphs into a routine like going to the grocery store. Let us return to God!

2 Cor 5:20—22

Brothers and sisters:

We are ambassadors for Christ,

as if God were appealing through us.

We implore you on behalf of Christ,

be reconciled to God.

For our sake he made him to be sin who did not know sin,

so that we might become the righteousness of God in him.

Consider

How goes your walk with God?

Are there things in your life that you need to change?

Why not thank God for his grace and mercy in Jesus?

Prayer

God, you know everything about my life and still love me enough to pursue me by going to the cross in my behalf. Thank you! I bless your holy Name. Amen.

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February 16, 2010

“Taking Responsibility”

Pogo, the cartoon possum most famous saying is, “We have met the enemy and he is us." Our reading today supports this idea that we must take responsibility for our actions. We cannot blame God, the devil, circumstances or others for the choices we make. To make right choices we need right moral options which God gives us in his Holy Word. We aslo need the power of the Holy Spirit to follow through. Good News ---there is forgiveness when we err. We can make a fresh start with God’s grace.

James 1:12-15

Blessed is he who perseveres in temptation,

for when he has been proven he will receive the crown of life

that he promised to those who love him.

No one experiencing temptation should say,

“I am being tempted by God”;

for God is not subject to temptation to evil,

and he himself tempts no one.

Rather, each person is tempted when lured and enticed by his desire.

Then desire conceives and brings forth sin,

and when sin reaches maturity it gives birth to death.

Consider

I know it is painful, but have you taken a good moral inventory of your life? What was the process of your moral failure?

Have you experienced the forgiveness of Jesus?  (see 1 John 1:10-2:2 below)

Prayer

Jesus, according to your promise, I ask you to forgive me my sin and to cleanse me. Help me to lives a fife that please and honors you. Fill me with the Spirit so that I can experience a new life in you. Amen.

1 John 1:8-2:2 reads 8If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. 9If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 10If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word has no place in our lives. 1My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have one who speaks to the Father in our defense—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. 2He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for[a] the sins of the whole world.

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February 15, 2010

“Lord, Give Me a Sign”

People tell me that if they had a sign from God they would begin to believe.

Jesus does not give much credence to such a notion. Read on.

Mark 8:11-13

The Pharisees came forward and began to argue with Jesus, seeking from him a sign from heaven to test him. He sighed from the depth of his spirit and said,  “Why does this generation seek a sign? Amen, I say to you, no sign will be given to this generation.” Then he left them, got into the boat again, and went off to the other shore.

Consider

1.       What helped you to come to faith?

2.       Why do you think Jesus is exasperated with people who seek “signs”?

Prayer

Jesus, you desire for me to simply trust you without the “proof of signs.”

Yet, I see the evidence (signs) of your love all around me every day. I also heed your words recorded in pages of Scripture. 

You sustain the universe and my world with your love. This is enough evidence for me. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

February 12, 2010

“He has done All Things Well”

When is the last time you were desperate?  I mean when is the last time in your life when you could not make life work well—when you were at the end of your rope? Welcome to the human condition!  I do not mean to sound cruel – life sometimes does not work out well.  We need to take our issues/problems/grief to the One who can make life work well.

Mark 7:31-37

Jesus left the district of Tyre

and went by way of Sidon to the Sea of Galilee,

into the district of the Decapolis.

And people brought to him a deaf man who had a speech impediment

and begged him to lay his hand on him.

He took him off by himself away from the crowd.

He put his finger into the man’s ears

and, spitting, touched his tongue;

then he looked up to heaven and groaned, and said to him,

“Ephphatha!” (that is, “Be opened!”)

And immediately the man’s ears were opened,

his speech impediment was removed,

and he spoke plainly.

He ordered them not to tell anyone.

But the more he ordered them not to,

the more they proclaimed it.

They were exceedingly astonished and they said,

“He has done all things well.

He makes the deaf hear and the mute speak.”

Consider

1.       What part did the friends of the deaf mute play in his healing?

2.       Jesus does not “grandstand”; Why?

3.       How does Jesus give dignity to the deaf mute?

4.       other observations…..

Prayer

Jesus, I come to you with people who need your special touch. Like the death mutes friends,

I too care for others. I now lift up to you in prayer the following people (pray now for these people)…….    Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

February 10, 2010

Faith in Unusual Places

In our reading today a Gentile mother earnestly seeks out Jesus in behalf of her demonized daughter. We are not told how all this came about for speculation does no good in real life. We need to not rehearse the past but pay attention to the now! Jesus tests her faith and rewards this mother with a healing for the daughter.

Mark 7:24-30

Jesus went to the district of Tyre.

He entered a house and wanted no one to know about it,

but he could not escape notice.

Soon a woman whose daughter had an unclean spirit heard about him.

She came and fell at his feet.

The woman was a Greek, a Syrophoenician by birth,

and she begged him to drive the demon out of her daughter.

He said to her, “Let the children be fed first.

For it is not right to take the food of the children

and throw it to the dogs.”

She replied and said to him,

“Lord, even the dogs under the table eat the children’s scraps.”

Then he said to her, “For saying this, you may go.

The demon has gone out of your daughter.”

When the woman went home, she found the child lying in bed

and the demon gone.

Consider

1.       What are some of the qualities you see in the Gentile mother?

2.       Why do you think Jesus seemed so tough on her?

3.       Do you see Jesus as your advocate in the real trials of your life?

Prayer

Jesus, just as you had mercy on the mother by hearing her story and healing her daughter, I trust you will always hear me out and move miraculously in my behalf because of your great love for me. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

February 9, 2010

Anatomy 101

High School human anatomy class was fascinating to me. Did you know the largest organ in your body is your skin?

We studied the circulatory system and the digestive system too. Jesus teaches about the later two also. 

Mark 7: 14-23

Jesus summoned the crowd again and said to them,

“Hear me, all of you, and understand.

Nothing that enters one from outside can defile that person;

but the things that come out from within are what defile.”

When he got home away from the crowd

his disciples questioned him about the parable.

He said to them,

“Are even you likewise without understanding?

Do you not realize that everything

that goes into a person from outside cannot defile,

since it enters not the heart but the stomach

and passes out into the latrine?”

(Thus he declared all foods clean.)

“But what comes out of the man, that is what defiles him.

From within the man, from his heart,

come evil thoughts, unchastity, theft, murder,

adultery, greed, malice, deceit,

licentiousness, envy, blasphemy, arrogance, folly.

All these evils come from within and they defile.”

Consider

According to Jesus what defiles us?

Jesus teaching was radical. Why?

Have you dealt with the “yucky” stuff that comes from within your heart? Why not give your sin to Jesus for cleansing!

Prayer

God, I know that my heart can be wicked. It is difficult for me to admit that to myself and to you.

Thank you for dying on a cross for my sin. Cleanse me from my sin and help me by your power to

live a life that pleases you. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

February 8, 2010

Jesus Teaches Multiplication Tables

I grew up learning math by rote from flip charts in elementary school. I think it was in the fifth grade that we

learned our “times tables” one times one—through-- twelve times twelve from memorization.

Later in life while going to college I worked in a bakery whereby the times tables served me well.

A pallet of bread held twelve loaves. And a rack of bread that went on a semi truck held 45 pallets which equal 540 loaves.

And the semi truck held over 20 racks---you get the idea. Math is an important part of life and also in our lesson today Jesus teaches math to his disciples.

Matthew 18:21-22

Peter approached Jesus and asked him,

“Lord, if my brother sins against me,

how often must I forgive him?

As many as seven times?”

Jesus answered, “I say to you, not seven times but seventy-seven times.

Consider

Do you find it difficult to forgive others? Why?

Do you find it difficult to forgive your self? Why?

Is it reasonable to forgive seventy-seven times? Why would Jesus say this?

Are there people you need to forgive? How about yourself?

Prayer

Jesus, as you teach me new multiplication tables about forgiveness, I find it difficult to apply what you are teaching me. 

I really need your help to forgive myself and others. Fill me with your Spirit and give me a teachable mind, heart, and will to practice forgiveness everyday. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

February 7, 2010

Jesus, the Healer

In today’s reading Jesus heals many people. As the sick made contact with him they were miraculously made whole.

Read the account below and be amazed!

Mark 6:53-56

After making the crossing to the other side of the sea,

Jesus and his disciples came to land at Gennesaret

and tied up there.

As they were leaving the boat, people immediately recognized him.

They scurried about the surrounding country

and began to bring in the sick on mats

to wherever they heard he was.

Whatever villages or towns or countryside he entered,

they laid the sick in the marketplaces

and begged him that they might touch only the tassel on his cloak;

and as many as touched it were healed.

Consider

1.       Do you marvel and Jesus’ compassion for the sick

2.       Have you ever experienced a healing from Jesus?

3.       Do you know salvation is a healing of your soul?

Prayer

Lord Jesus, I come to you today so that I might know your love in a personal way.

Touch my life—mind, body, spirit and make me whole. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

February 4, 2010

Parenting Revisited

A while back not (see February 1, 2010 devotional) we talked about parenting in terms of how our children “turn out.” I wrote that children can make choices that steer their lives in directions that are not godly that break their parents’ hearts.  King David had many children and two sons stand out; Solomon and Absalom. In today’s reading Solomon makes choices guided by his father David that honors God and as heir to the throne, Solomon succeeds. Sadly, Absalom did not.

1 Kings 2:1-4, 10-12

When the time of David’s death drew near,

he gave these instructions to his son Solomon:

“I am going the way of all flesh.

Take courage and be a man.

Keep the mandate of the Lord, your God, following his ways

and observing his statutes, commands, ordinances, and decrees

as they are written in the law of Moses,

that you may succeed in whatever you do,

wherever you turn, and the Lord may fulfill

the promise he made on my behalf when he said,

‘If your sons so conduct themselves

that they remain faithful to me with their whole heart

and with their whole soul,

you shall always have someone of your line

on the throne of Israel.’”

David rested with his ancestors and was buried in the City of David.

The length of David’s reign over Israel was forty years:

he reigned seven years in Hebron

and thirty-three years in Jerusalem.

Solomon was seated on the throne of his father David,

with his sovereignty firmly established.

Consider

Did your parents attempt to guide your life in godly ways?

What are some of the influences that helped you to follow Jesus?

Do you need help in parenting your children? Call me/(e-mail me) and perhaps we can begin a parenting discussion group.

Prayer

God, help me to be a godly parent that models the Christian faith. I pray for the children you have entrusted unto me will be devoted and passionate believers in Jesus. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

February 3, 2010

The Sin of Pride

King David was a godly and highly successful king of Israel who lived one thousand years before Jesus.  God had given him military successes and a prosperous united nation. One day David desires to take a census of the nation. You can read the details in 2 Sam 24:2, 9-17. Seems harmless enough—yet God calls David on the carpet for this because if was out of prideful arrogance that David called for the census. David repents and writes Psalm 32.

Psalm 32:1-5

1 Blessed is he whose transgressions are forgiven,

      whose sins are covered.

2 Blessed is the man whose sin the LORD does not count against him

      and in whose spirit is no deceit.

3 When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long.

4 For day and night your hand was heavy upon me;

      my strength was sapped as in the heat of summer.

5 Then I acknowledged my sin to you

      and did not cover up my iniquity.

      I said, "I will confess my transgressions to the LORD "—

      and you forgave the guilt of my sin.

Consider

1.      You can sense in Psalm 32 (you may want to read all of it) the anguish of David for his sin of pride. Pride is taking personal credit for what God has done. Does this Psalm reflect an experience in your life?

2.       If the answer is “yes” then ask God for forgiveness now and claim the wonderful promise of verse five.

Prayer

Merciful God, I come this day to you to acknowledge my sin and thank you for your mercy given to me in Jesus who bore my sin on the cross. Forgive my sin–known and unknown--and wash me whiter than snow so that I may serve you with joy now and forever. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

February 2, 2010

There is Clean and then there is Deep Clean

You have seen soap commercials on television that compare “clean and deep clean.” It is obvious which brand wins in side-by-side comparison. The consumer than decides to purchase the superior soap and lives happily forever after.

In our reading today we find the prophet Malachi declaring, “He (God) will sit refining and purifying silver, and he will purify the sons of Levi, Refining them like gold or like silver. Yes, cleaner than clean. Messiah will come and cleanse us form our sin!

Malachi 3:1-4

Thus says the Lord God:

Lo, I am sending my messenger

to prepare the way before me;

And suddenly there will come to the temple

the Lord whom you seek,

And the messenger of the covenant whom you desire.

Yes, he is coming, says the Lord of hosts.

But who will endure the day of his coming?

And who can stand when he appears?

For he is like the refiner’s fire,

or like the fuller’s lye.

He will sit refining and purifying silver,

and he will purify the sons of Levi,

Refining them like gold or like silver

that they may offer due sacrifice to the Lord.

Then the sacrifice of Judah and Jerusalem

will please the Lord,

as in the days of old, as in years gone by.

Consider

Have you experienced the cleansing of your sin? How did it make you feel/think?

God continues to cleanse us in life; this is called “sanctification.” How is God working in your life today to change you for the better?

Prayer

God, forgive me my sin and make me “whiter than snow” –cleaner than clean. Use me for your purposes. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

February 1, 2010

The Myth of Parenting

There is a myth on Christian circles that goes like this—godly parents produce godly children.

King David of old was a godly man and his son Absalom rebelled against his own father.

Do not get me wrong. More often than not godliness in parents encourages righteousness in children.  Our children still make choices—to follow Jesus or their own ways.

2 Sam 15:13-14

An informant came to David with the report,

“The children of Israel have transferred their loyalty to Absalom.”

At this, David said to all his servants

who were with him in Jerusalem:

“Up!  Let us take flight, or none of us will escape from Absalom.

Leave quickly, lest he hurry and overtake us,

then visit disaster upon us and put the city to the sword.”

As David went up the Mount of Olives, he wept without ceasing.

His head was covered, and he was walking barefoot.

All those who were with him also had their heads covered

and were weeping as they went.

Consider

How did your parents nurture you to follow Jesus?

Have you had a time of adolescent rebellion? How did you leave the rebellion?

David’s tears revealed the tenderness of his heart toward his son Absalom. Do you have a tender heart toward your children even in their rebellion?

Prayer

God, I pray for parents reading this painful episode in David’s life. You call us to nurture our children in the fear and admonition of the Lord. Help us to do that well. And grant our children mercy when they rebel. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

January 29, 2010

"Two Kingdoms"

Jesus taught us to pray, “Thy kingdom Come, thy will be done.” Before going to the cross our Lord said, “My kingdom is not of this world.” In today’s reading Jesus describes his kingdom to the crowds that followed him in parables but to his own disciples, “he explained everything in private.”

Mark 4:26-34

Jesus said to the crowds:

“This is how it is with the Kingdom of God;

it is as if a man were to scatter seed on the land

and would sleep and rise night and day and the seed would sprout and grow,

he knows not how. Of its own accord the land yields fruit,

first the blade, then the ear, then the full grain in the ear.

And when the grain is ripe, he wields the sickle at once,

for the harvest has come.”

He said, “To what shall we compare the Kingdom of God,

or what parable can we use for it?

It is like a mustard seed that, when it is sown in the ground,

is the smallest of all the seeds on the earth.

But once it is sown, it springs up and becomes the largest of plants

and puts forth large branches, so that the birds of the sky can dwell in its shade.”

With many such parables he spoke the word to them as they were able to understand it.

Without parables he did not speak to them, but to his own disciples he explained everything in private.

Consider:

1.       How does Jesus describe the Kingdom of God?

2.       What strikes you about the images he uses? Why?

3.       Why do you think Jesus treated the crowds differently than his own disciples?

4.       To which kingdom are your loyalties? The kingdom of God or the kingdom of this world?

Prayer:

Jesus, teach me about your kingdom so I can not only understand it but become a part of it today. Let my prayer always be, “Thy kingdom come, thy will be done in my life” so that you may be honored by my life. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

January 28, 2010

"Faith Comes From..."

There is a old adage attributed to Francis of Assisi that says, "Preach the Gospel (Good News about Jesus) on all occasions and use words if nesessary." While the sentiment of this quote is good it is in error! Yes, Christians should do good all the time; however, your witness still NEEDS WORDS.

Romans 10:17

"Faith comes from hearing and hearing by the Word of God" 

Consider:

1.  How did you come to faith? What attracted you to Jesus?

2.  When did you first hear WORDS about Jesus?

3.  When is the last time you shared WORD with another person about salvation in Chirst?

Prayer:

God, thank you for saving me by hearing the GOOD NEWS that Jesus loves me and died so I could know God and have a reason to live and die. Grant me opportunity to verbally share my faith today. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

January 27, 2010

"The Wrath and Love of God"

Many of our readers today may not read this devotion because of the title. You do not want a God of wrath and for the most part you have heard of the love of God.  Yes, God is love! This is Good News. The Good News implies that there is also bad news. The bad news is “all have sinned”-- we that have rebelled against God. God is holy and just and has righteous indignation against all sin.  God in his mercy sent Jesus to die for our sins! Good News. Read the prayer and rejoice in the Good News!

Psalm 85:1-4

You showed favor to your land, O LORD;

      you restored the fortunes of Jacob.

2 You forgave the iniquity of your people

      and covered all their sins.

3 You set aside all your wrath

      and turned from your fierce anger.

4 Restore us again, O God our Savior,

      and put away your displeasure toward us.

Consider

1.       Does your heart echo the above Psalm?

2.       Do you recognize your need of a Savior?

3.       Do you pray that others may know the Good News too?

Prayer

God, without your mercy I would be undone. Forgive me my sin. I pray that you may use me to proclaim the Good News of your love. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

January 26, 2010

"Big Boys Do Cry"

Growing up, I had a few spectacular bicycle accidents.  Skinned knees, elbows and bloody lips were common. One message I received is “big boys don’t cry.”  In our reading today, the Apostle Paul says to Timothy (his son in the faith) “I yearn to see you again recalling your tears.” So in the Bible, big boys do cry! Tears come easily for godly men and women who have a passion for God’s family and care for the suffering of others and the lost souls.

2 Timothy 1:4-5

I yearn to see you again, recalling your tears,

so that I may be filled with joy,

as I recall your sincere faith

that first lived in your grandmother Lois

and in your mother Eunice

and that I am confident lives also in you.

Consider

1.       When is the last time you were led to tears? What was the reason? How did God sustain you?

2.       You will notice in our reading that our faith in Jesus involves relationship with others. Do you share your tears and concerns with God family? Why? Why not?

3.       Are you filled with joy even when tears flow? If not lean on Jesus and other believers.

Prayer

God, Sometimes I have trouble being honest with my emotions thinking tears are a sign of weakness rather than an expression of deep concern.  Help me to really care for God’s people and to connect with others so that we can bear one another’s burdens. Help me to have a passion for others who do not know you. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

January 25, 2010

“GO”

Two-thirds of God’s name is ‘Go.’ “Go into all the world and proclaim the Gospel”(Good News) Jesus says.

The question I pose to you today is, “are you going?” Well, you may protest, “I will leave that mandate to the missionaries.”

Did you know God mandates you to become a missionary in your neighborhood, work place, wherever you are?

Also notice that as you go God gives you power over evil opposition and power to positively to bless and heal others.

This is indeed Good New!

Mark 16: 15-18

Jesus appeared to the Eleven and said to them:

“Go into the whole world

and proclaim the Gospel to every creature.

Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved;

whoever does not believe will be condemned.

These signs will accompany those who believe:

in my name they will drive out demons,

they will speak new languages.

They will pick up serpents with their hands,

and if they drink any deadly thing, it will not harm them.

They will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.”

Consider

In what ways are you proclaiming/sharing your faith with others?

How do you handle resistance?

Have you seen positive results of your sharing the Good News?

Prayer: 

God, as a recipient of the Good News of Jesus, I desire to share my faith with others.

Give me opportunities to speak in your behalf. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

January 22, 2010

What’s in a Name?

Jesus wants to give you a new name! Yes, this may or may not be good news to you, especially if you like your present name. In today’s reading Simon receive a new name, “Peter” which translated means “Rock.” Jesus saw potential in Simon. Simon would grow “Rock solid” in his faith.

The reason Jesus desires to rename you is words—names—have meaning.  Jesus gives you new meaning too!

Our new name given by Jesus gives us a new identity, value and purpose.

Mark 3:13-16

Jesus went up the mountain and summoned those whom he wanted

and they came to him.

He appointed Twelve, whom he also named Apostles,

that they might be with him

and he might send them forth to preach

and to have authority to drive out demons:

He appointed the Twelve: Simon, whom he named Peter;

Consider

Your earthly parents spent considerable time naming you before you left the hospital, so too God cares for you. In the above passage what might God desire for you?

              a.)    to be with Jesus so you might loved by him?

              b.)    to teach you the meaning of life?

              c.)    for you to teach others about God?

              d.)    to have power over evil?

              e.)    Other?

Prayer

God, you created the heavens and the earth by your spoken word, so too you gave Peter a new meaning by renaming him. Give me too a newness of life by you calling my name too. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

January 21, 2010

“Jesus and the Crowds”

Our modern media alerts us to events that draw huge crowds whether it is a rock concert or a political gathering. In our reading today Jesus “withdraws” from the crowds with his disciples but the crowds will not leave him alone. They have needs and they desire healing and assurance that God loves them. Jesus supplied both. Jesus loves you and is not too busy to meet your need.

Mark 3:7-10

Jesus withdrew toward the sea with his disciples.

A large number of people followed from Galilee and from Judea.

Hearing what he was doing,

a large number of people came to him also from Jerusalem,

from Idumea, from beyond the Jordan,

and from the neighborhood of Tyre and Sidon.

He told his disciples to have a boat ready for him because of the crowd,

so that they would not crush him.

Consider

How did you meet Jesus? Did you have a deep need which motivated you to seek him?

Jesus gets into a boat so that crowds would not crush him. Jesus speaks to the crowds form the boat. We are not told what he said. You have read the words of Jesus, what are some of the words of Jesus that inspire you? Why?

Prayer

Lord Jesus, I come to you today in awe and wonder. You are not too busy to hear me out. You love me enough to meet my deepest needs. Thank you. I desire to follow you today so that I may speak hope to others you need you too. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

January 20, 2010

"People before Program"

You know that churches organize to do many things. In the process of organizing, churches often forget the real needs of people. In today’s reading Jesus breaks the “religious program rules” and really helps a man in need. Read on.

Mark 3:1-6

Jesus entered the synagogue.

There was a man there who had a withered hand.

They watched Jesus closely

to see if he would cure him on the Sabbath

so that they might accuse him.

He said to the man with the withered hand,

“Come up here before us.”

Then he said to the Pharisees,

“Is it lawful to do good on the Sabbath rather than to do evil,

to save life rather than to destroy it?”

But they remained silent.

Looking around at them with anger

and grieved at their hardness of heart,

Jesus said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.”

He stretched it out and his hand was restored.

The Pharisees went out and immediately took counsel

with the Herodians against him to put him to death.

Consider:

Are you aware of human need around you?

How do you address the need?

How can your church meet the needs in the congregation and community?

Prayer 

Lord, I thank you for the mercy of Jesus who put people before religious rules. Jesus, keep my heart tender toward others so I can hear your voice and address needs around me with your love.  Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

January 19, 2010

"For Freedom, Christ Has Set Us Free"

Have you noticed how many people think religion “cramps their life-style?” They want nothing to do with church or the God of the Bible because of the new rules that may inhibit their “freedom.” Yes, there needs to be a change in our moral and ethical behavior and values when we come to faith in Jesus. This is called repentance. Jesus gives us a new life and freedom to enjoy God because of the forgiveness Jesus offers. However, Jesus came to set us free—free enough to not add unnecessary rules and regulations to our lives that have noting to do ultimately with morals and ethics.

In today’s reading I am amazed that Jesus’ followers feel free enough to eat grain and eat on the Sabbath, to the religious Jews this was “big time” breaking the rules for picking grain was considered work and the Sabbath was a day of rest.

Are you free? Read on.

Mark 2:23-28

As Jesus was passing through a field of grain on the Sabbath,

his disciples began to make a path while picking the heads of grain.

At this the Pharisees said to him,

“Look, why are they doing what is unlawful on the Sabbath?”

He said to them,

“Have you never read what David did

when he was in need and he and his companions were hungry?

How he went into the house of God when Abiathar was high priest

and ate the bread of offering that only the priests could lawfully eat,

and shared it with his companions?”

Then he said to them,

“The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.

That is why the Son of Man is lord even of the Sabbath.”

Consider

Are you free, free in Christ? 

Read Romans 8:21 and Galatians 5:1-13 

Prayer

Jesus, liberate me to enjoy a clean, joyous and free relationship with you. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

January 18, 2010

"Mending Old Clothes"

I recall my mother patching my school Levis when I was in elementary school when ever I wore a hole in the knees. She would dutifully sew on a patch and comment, “This will hold for awhile.” Mother knew the patch would soon tear away from the pants. Then the day would come that a new pair of pants would have to be purchased and the old Levis were made into short pants.

Jesus instructs his disciples about the need for newness in our lives. Read on.

Matthew 2:18-22

The disciples of John and of the Pharisees were accustomed to fast.

People came to Jesus and objected,

“Why do the disciples of John and the disciples of the Pharisees fast,

but your disciples do not fast?”

Jesus answered them,

“Can the wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them?

As long as they have the bridegroom with them they cannot fast.

But the days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them,

and then they will fast on that day.

No one sews a piece of unshrunken cloth on an old cloak.

If he does, its fullness pulls away,

the new from the old, and the tear gets worse.

Likewise, no one pours new wine into old wineskins.

Otherwise, the wine will burst the skins,

and both the wine and the skins are ruined. Rather, new wine is poured into fresh wineskins.”

Consider

1.       Have you discovered the joy of knowing Jesus?

2.       Do you rejoice in your faith?

3.       Is change difficult for you to accept even when change is for the better? Why? Why not?

Prayer

Lord Jesus, sometimes I take your for granted in get comfortable in old ways of thinking and doing. Help me to have a fresh and renewed relationship with you. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

January 14, 2010

“Come Clean”

Jesus heals a leper in today’s reading.  Leprosy carried a huge toll to the possessor. Lepers were outcast by society for the disease was considered a punishment for sin. The leper was condemned to self-loathing and begging for food. I cannot imagine a day in a life of a leper. Today Jesus touches the “untouchable” Leper.

Mark 1:40-45

A leper came to him and kneeling down begged him and said, “If you wish, you can make me clean.” Moved with pity, he stretched out his hand, touched the leper, and said to him, “I do will it. Be made clean.” The leprosy left him immediately, and he was made clean. Then, warning him sternly, he dismissed him at once. Then he said to him, “See that you tell no one anything, but go, show yourself to the priest and offer for your cleansing what Moses prescribed; that will be proof for them.” The man went away and began to publicize the whole matter. He spread the report abroad so that it was impossible for Jesus to enter a town openly. He remained outside in deserted places, and people kept coming to him from everywhere.

Consider:

1.      What part of today’s reading moves you? Why?

2.      Theologians have compared sin to leprosy in that there is no human cure except the miraculous touch of Jesus. Has Jesus touched your life and cleansed you from sin?

Prayer:

Lord Jesus touch my life and cleanse me from my sin so that in joy I might share the Good News of how you have touched my life. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

January 13, 2010

What is the Point of Healing?

All of us desire physical health. We want to be of sound body and mind so that we can function well with the life God has given us. And this is the point! Yes, physical health is a gift so that we can serve others and not pursue our selfish ambitions. Read on.

Mark 1:29-32:

On leaving the synagogue Jesus entered the house of

Simon and Andrew with James and John.

Simon’s mother-in-law lay sick with a fever.

They immediately told him about her.

He approached, grasped her hand, and helped her up.

Then the fever left her and she waited on them.

Consider:

Simon’s mother-in-law was healed by Jesus. What is the first thing she did after receiving her healing?

What kind of service do you think Jesus has for you? Are you serving others?

Prayer:

The point of life God is to know your Son and serve him by serving others. Help me to serve you well today. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

January 12, 2010

“Irony of Irony”

Jesus is recognized by demons in our reading today. How ironic for Jesus came to his own people

and they for the most part did not recognize him as Messiah and Savior of the world.

Mark 1:21-28:

Jesus came to Capernaum with his followers,

and on the Sabbath he entered the synagogue and taught.

The people were astonished at his teaching,

for he taught them as one having authority and not as the scribes.

In their synagogue was a man with an unclean spirit;

he cried out, “What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth?

Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are–the Holy One of God!”

Jesus rebuked him and said, “Quiet!  Come out of him!”

The unclean spirit convulsed him and with a loud cry came out of him.

All were amazed and asked one another, “What is this? A new teaching with authority.

He commands even the unclean spirits and they obey him.”

His fame spread everywhere throughout the whole region of Galilee.

Consider:

1.  How do you view Jesus? 

         a.) a wise teacher  

         b.) a worker of miracles

         c.)  the Savior

2.  Do you spread his fame?

Prayer:

God give me spiritual eyes to recognize Jesus as your Son. Help me to spread his fame among the people you place in my life. Amen

* * * * * * * * * *

January 11, 2010

“Debt-Reduction”

If you listen to commercial media you will hear or see ads promising you debt relief if

you call on their services. However, if you investigate closely, most of these agencies siphon

more money from you rendering you still in financial arrears for many years.

God on the other hand specializes in sin-debt-reduction with no gimmicks or sketchy contracts

mingled by fine print fees. Jesus is the one who died for us to eradicate our debt of sin. This is cause for celebration!

Reading:     Psalm 116:12-13

How can I repay the Lord for all his goodness to me?  13 I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the Lord.

Consider:

Have you taken inventory of God’s care for you? Why not make a “thanksgiving list” of all the ways  God has blessed and sustained you. The list will grow as you take stock of the myriads of ways God has been gracious to you.

Why not thank God in prayer after you take inventory and then share some of the list with a friend.

Prayer:

God, as I consider your loving kindnesses to me I am amazed at your gracious offer of forgiveness.

Help me to live in gratitude today and forever. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

November 09, 2009

Intro:“Spiritual Desalinization”

There is a huge need for pure clean water around our world. The cause of much disease is contaminated water. One solution is to build sea water desalinization plants. Our vast oceans are a treasure trove of potential water to bless the world. The good news is that our oceans are a limitless source for pure water. The bad news is that these plants are extremely expensive to build and maintain; so our world suffers!

In our reading today, we see a spiritual desalinization plant ready and installed to bless the entire world.

Text:  Ezekiel 47:1-2, 8-9,12

The angel brought me back to the entrance of the temple, and I saw water flowing out from beneath the threshold of the temple toward the east, for the façade of the temple was toward the east; the water flowed down from the southern side of the temple, south of the altar. He led me outside by the north gate, and around to the outer gate facing the east, where I saw water trickling from the southern side. He said to me, “This water flows into the eastern district down upon the Arabah, and empties into the sea, the salt waters, which it makes fresh. Wherever the river flows, every sort of living creature that can multiply shall live, and there shall be abundant fish, for wherever this water comes the sea shall be made fresh. Along both banks of the river, fruit trees of every kind shall grow; their leaves shall not fade, nor their fruit fail. Every month they shall bear fresh fruit, for they shall be watered by the flow from the sanctuary. Their fruit shall serve for food, and their leaves for medicine.”

Consider:

1.How many ways does the “spiritual desalinization” plant bless the people? Be specific.

2.The temple is the source of the new life! Have you experienced this new life?

Prayer:

Father, I want to experience your new living water that is fresh and pure each day. Quench my thirst for you as I worship you this day and forever! Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

November 06, 2009

Intro:Full of Goodness

The Apostle Paul is convinced believers are able to encourage one another. I am pleased to serve a church where so many people are in the habit of edifying each other with listening ears, prayers, and words that edify.

When we allow Jesus to live in us his goodness flows thru us as channels of blessing.  

Be blessed to day!

Text:  Romans 15:14

I myself am convinced about you, my brothers and sisters,

that you yourselves are full of goodness,

filled with all knowledge, and able to admonish one another.

Consider:

Why not call a person who has encouraged you in the past and thank them once again for being there for you.

Prayer:

God, I want to thank you for giving me people in my life that have been faithful to you by being there for me. I also am open today to be a vessel of encouragement to those around me. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

November 05, 2009

Intro:“Living for Jesus”

The hymn, Living for Jesus echoes today’s text. Verse one of the hymn begins, “Living for Jesus a life that is true, striving to please him in all that I do.”

In an age when everyone seems to be looking out for their own self-interests, it is refreshing to know that we do not have to live that way.  We discover real life  -  full and free  -  when we live for Jesus!

Text:  Romans 14:7-9

Brothers and sisters:

None of us lives for oneself, and no one dies for oneself.

For if we live, we live for the Lord,

and if we die, we die for the Lord;

so then, whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s.

For this is why Christ died and came to life,

that he might be Lord of both the dead and the living.

Consider:

1.Have you discovered the love of Jesus in your life?  Do you know that he demonstrated this love by dying for your sins?

2. Have you given your life back to him in loving gratitude?

Prayer:

Jesus, I want to grow in my faith. Help me to begin to realize how much you love me so I can reflect your love to others. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

November 04, 2009

Intro:The Reason for the Ten Commandments

Listed below are a portion of the 10 Commandments (you might want to check them all out by looking up Deuteronomy 5:6-21).

In our text below, Paul gives us the reason for them. The commandments show us what real love requires in regards to how we treat others.  And Jesus makes it tougher in that he says if we hate we have commit murder and if we lust we commit adultery. See Matthew chapter 5 in his famous Sermon on the Mount. If we do a serious moral inventory we find that we all fail miserably.

What do we do? Lower the standards? Give up? No. We bank on the mercy of Jesus who died for your sins and mine. See Romans 3:23 and 6:23.

Text:  Romans 3:8-10

Brothers and sisters:

Owe nothing to anyone, except to love one another;

for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law.

The commandments, You shall not commit adultery;

you shall not kill;

you shall not steal;

you shall not covet,

and whatever other commandment there may be,

are summed up in this saying, namely,

You shall love your neighbor as yourself.

Love does no evil to the neighbor;

hence, love is the fulfillment of the law.

Consider:

1.How goes your relationship with others? Are you living in peace with them?

2.Do you keep your heart free from lust and hatred and greed?

3.Do you see the need for a Savior?

Prayer:

Jesus, I thank you for dying on the cross for me. Your forgiveness gives me a living hope. Live in me so that I desire to obey you out of a willing heart. Send your Spirit to me to empower me to serve you with joy now and forever. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

November 03, 2009

Intro:Christmas Every Day

Children’s faces light up when opening gifts on Christmas Day.

You can light up the faces of both young and young at heart everyday by using the gifts God has given you to bless others.

We often do this in natural ways. One person said it well, “We are to be naturally supernatural and supernaturally natural.” One “natural way” is to simply be the person God has made you—with your unique temperament, personality, life-experiences. Others can be blessed by simply being around you.  Be a blessing to someone today!

Reading:  Romans 12:5-8

Brothers and sisters:

We, though many, are one Body in Christ

and individually parts of one another.

Since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us,

let us exercise them:

if prophecy, in proportion to the faith;

if ministry, in ministering;

if one is a teacher, in teaching;

if one exhorts, in exhortation;

if one contributes, in generosity;

if one is over others, with diligence;

if one does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.

Consider:

1.Did you know that you are spiritually connected with other Christians?

2.Gifts are not merit badges, but “graces” God give us to serve others.

3.How can you use what God has given you this week?

Prayer:

God, I want to be a blessing to someone today. Help me to see how you use me in natural ways. I thank you for designing me for the purpose of loving you and others. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

November 02, 2009

Intro:Don’t Eat with Your Mouth Too Full

My mother use to scold us twins (yes, there are 2 of us), “Do not eat with your mouth too full … take smaller bites.”

This morning I take her advice for in our reading today there is too much to eat in one bite and forgive the pun --  in one sound byte too!

So today, I pass on my mom’s wisdom and ask you to take small bites as you read one of the most packed and glorious passages of Scriptures in the New Testament.

Reading:  Romans 5:5-11

Brothers and sisters: Hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us.

For Christ, while we were still helpless, died at the appointed time for the ungodly.   Indeed, only with difficulty does one die for a just person,

though perhaps for a good person one might even find courage to die.

But God proves his love for us in that while we were still sinners Christ died for us.

How much more then, since we are now justified by his Blood, will we be saved through him from the wrath.   Indeed, if, while we were enemies, we were reconciled to God through the death of his Son,  how much more, once reconciled, will we be saved by his life.  Not only that, but we also boast of God through our Lord Jesus Christ,  through whom we have now received reconciliation.

Discuss:

1.Did you take small bites?

2.What did you learn about Jesus’ love?

Prayer:

God, you are so good to have demonstrated you love to us by sending your Son to die on a cross for us. Your thoughts toward us are good, numerous, and marvelous to consider.  Thank you. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

October 30, 2009

Intro:“Anguish and Sorrow”

Yesterday we looked at loss that causes emotional pain. Today we are considering another set of painful emotions—the pain of knowing that other people are not saved. Today, the Apostle Paul speaks of his own anguish. Read on and see if you share his pain too.  

Text:  Romans 9:1-5

Brothers and sisters: I speak the truth in Christ, I do not lie; my conscience joins with the Holy Spirit in bearing me witness that I have great sorrow and constant anguish in my heart. For I could wish that I myself were accursed and cut off from Christ for the sake of my own people, my kindred according to the flesh. They are children of Israel; theirs the adoption, the glory, the covenants, the giving of the law, the worship, and the promises; theirs the patriarchs, and from them, according to the flesh, is the Christ, who is over all, God blessed forever. Amen.

Consider:

1.Do you share Paul’s experience for the people around you that do not know Christ?

2.Are you willing to let Jesus give you a heart that deeply cares for others; especially for their salvation?

3.Do you share your hope with others?

Prayer:

Father, I confess that I often care about my own needs that are temporal and not about the eternal concern for the souls of others that do not know you. Forgive me and give me a heart that cares for people your Son died for. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

October 29, 2009

Intro:“No Separation”

In human relationships we know the pain of separation when relationships sour, when friends and family move away, or death strikes a loved one. The loss is real and the pain is immense because of the separation.

The Bible teaches that we are separated from God by sin. Yet God in his infinite love comes to us in Jesus who lives a holy life to the extent of dying on a cross to reconnect us to His heart again and reconnect us to each other.

The Good News is that nothing can now separate us from God’s love—no life circumstance or evil power. Read the following Good News, take courage and rejoice.

Text:  Romans 8:31b-39

Brothers and sisters: If God is for us, who can be against us?   He did not spare his own Son but handed him over for us all,  how will he not also give us everything else along with him?

Who will bring a charge against God’s chosen ones?  It is God who acquits us. Who will condemn?  It is Christ Jesus who died, rather, was raised, who also is at the right hand of God, who indeed intercedes for us. What will separate us from the love of Christ?  Will anguish, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or the sword?

As it is written:

For your sake we are being slain all the day;

we are looked upon as sheep to be slaughtered.

No, in all these things we conquer overwhelmingly through him who loved us.  For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor present things, nor future things, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Consider:

1.The above passage is considered one of the most dramatic passages in the Bible. Do you agree? Why?

2.Jesus died for you so that you would no longer be separated from him. Have you accepted the Good News with trust in Jesus?

3.Have you experienced his love when times are tough?

4.Read Second Corinthians 1:3-11 and encourage someone today.

Prayer:

God my heart soars to think that you love me with such undying love. I want to live my in total gratitude to you today and forever. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

October 28, 2009

Intro:“Mixed-metaphors”

The following are a few recent samples of mixed-metaphors spoken by famous people:

“A leopard can't change his stripes.” Al Gore

“As we consider the road that unfolds before us . . .” President Obama

“Button your seat belts.”  Rush Limbaugh

“There's a silver lining in all that red ink.”  NBC5 news anchor Mike Snyder

In our reading today, the Apostle uses metaphors to convey the privilege of being a Christian.  The metaphors of family, travelers, citizen, foundations, and temple are not mixed. They are strung together to give us a wonderful image of God’s plan. Read the following text slowly and view each image and then see if you put the images together and better appreciate God’s plan for you.

Reading:  Ephesians 2:19-22

Brothers and sisters:

You are no longer strangers and sojourners, but you are fellow citizens with the holy ones and members of the household of God, built upon the foundation of the Apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the capstone.

Through him the whole structure is held together and grows into a temple sacred in the Lord; in him you also are being built together into a dwelling place of God in the Spirit.

Discuss:

1.See how many images you can find in our text today?

2.What image strikes you the most? Why?

Prayer:

God, you have spoken of your love to us today in vivid imagery.  How wonderful you are! Our human language languishes in inadequacy in describing you and your loving plan for us. Today, I want to find words to express my thanks for all that you have done for me and words to express my gratitude for your plan for the ages.

* * * * * * * * * *

October 27, 2009

Intro:“Broken and Fixed--Suffering and Hope”

In our reading today, The Apostle Paul, gives a broad sweep of a world view that describes the world as it is—broken- and paints a picture of what it can become—fixed.

In the broken world we have suffering and futility in our human experience.

In the fixed world to come we have a full revelation of our inheritance in heaven whereby we will enjoy God forever without sin, suffering and futility.

In the meantime (the in-between time) we have hope!

Reading:  Romans 8:18-25

Brothers and sisters:

I consider that the sufferings of this present time are as nothing compared with the glory to be revealed for us.  For creation awaits with eager expectation the revelation of the children of God;  for creation was made subject to futility,  not of its own accord but because of the one who subjected it,  in hope that creation itself would be set free from slavery to corruption and share in the glorious freedom of the children of God.

We know that all creation is groaning in labor pains even until now; and not only that, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, we also groan within ourselves as we wait for adoption, the redemption of our bodies.  For in hope we were saved.  Now hope that sees for itself is not hope.  For who hopes for what one sees?  But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait with endurance.

Discuss:

1.Do you have a living hope?

2.How does your faith provide you with endurance?

Prayer:

Jesus, live m me today in such a way that I know you love me. Fill me with your Spirit so that I may endure this adventure called life. Give me a living hope to know things will be fixed in a place called heaven where I will enjoy you forever. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

October 26, 2009

Intro:“Daddy”

I recall a seminary professor asking our theology class what is the confession of faith according to the New Testament book of Romans. As we scratched our collective heads not wanting to give the wrong answer, there seemed to be a painfully prolonged pause. We students were silent and finally the professor gave us the answer. See if you can find the answer in the text below?

Reading:  Romans 8:15-16

“For those who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God.

For you did not receive a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear,

but you received a spirit of adoption,

through which we cry, “Abba, Father!”

Discuss:

1.Did you find the answer? E-mail it back to me.

2.How does your answer inform you about your faith?

3.How does it feel to be an adopted wanted child of “Daddy” (Abba)

Prayer:

Abba, I come to you today with a grateful heart that you love me. Help me, as your little child, to stay in your loving arms today. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

October 23, 2009

Intro:“Good Intentions Pave the Pathway to ….”

You have heard the adage, “Good intentions pave the pathway to hell.”  The Bible, oddly enough, teaches this too. “The willing (good intentions to do good) is ready at hand, but doing the good is not. For I do not do the good I want, but I do the evil I do not want.”

The problem is not good intentions but our inability to do well. Why? The bible teaches us that we are missing two things: One. The power to carry out our good intentions.--much like New Year resolutions. And two:  We have spiritual brokenness that taints what we do. This brokenness is called sin.

Do not despair!  Jesus gives us a new beginning—a new birth and the power to live out our good intentions

Reading:  Romans 7:18-25

Brothers and sisters:

I know that good does not dwell in me, that is, in my flesh.

The willing is ready at hand, but doing the good is not.

For I do not do the good I want,

but I do the evil I do not want.

Now if I do what I do not want, it is no longer I who do it,

but sin that dwells in me.

So, then, I discover the principle

that when I want to do right, evil is at hand.

For I take delight in the law of God, in my inner self,

but I see in my members another principle

at war with the law of my mind,

taking me captive to the law of sin that dwells in my members.

Miserable one that I am!

Who will deliver me from this mortal body?

Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Discuss:

1.Are you tired of the struggle of trying to keep good intentions? Do you know you fall short of your expectations? God’s?

2.Have you discovered the liberty of the new life that Jesus offers?  He did for you what you could not do for yourself. He lived a life of full good intentions and died on a cross for all of your sin.

3.Why not give your life to him now? Yes, your failures too! He will give you such joy!

Prayer:

1.Are you tired of the struggle of trying to keep good intentions? Do you know you fall short of your expectations? God’s?

2.Have you discovered the liberty of the new life that Jesus offers?  He did for you what you could not do for your self. He lived a life of full good intentions and died on a cross for all of your sin.

3.Why not give your life to him now? Yes, your failures too! He will give you such joy!

* * * * * * * * * *

October 22, 2009

Intro:“Modern Day Slaves”

As a nation we should be ashamed of the way we treated people of color, especially of people of African roots. We have come a long way as a nation to rid ourselves of our terrible past and admittedly we have a ways to go to eradicate this injustice.

Today, I am concerned too about a slavery that is rarely mentioned at all in the media; namely our addiction to the “slavery to sin.” Sin is essentially rebellion against God and God’s holy ways as revealed in the Bible. Sin manifests itself in all manner of selfishness. We are trapped in an endless cycle to sin. We love things and use people. My how we have fallen and only the church voices the alarm to eradicate “modern day slaves.”

Reading:  Romans 6:19-23

Brothers and sisters:

I am speaking in human terms because of the weakness of your nature.

For just as you presented the parts of your bodies as slaves to impurity

and to lawlessness for lawlessness,

so now present them as slaves to righteousness for sanctification.

For when you were slaves of sin, you were free from righteousness.

But what profit did you get then

from the things of which you are now ashamed?

For the end of those things is death.

But now that you have been freed from sin and have become slaves of God,

the benefit that you have leads to sanctification,

and its end is eternal life.

For the wages of sin is death,

but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Consider:

1.Are you free from the bondage of sin?  (See Romans 3:23 and 6:23 and chapters 7-8)

2.“Sanctification” means that you are growing in obedience to Jesus and his ways. Are you?

3.Are you now a “slave of righteousness”? What benefits are there in your freedom as a slave of Jesus?

4.Can others see that you are a changed person for the better because of your faith in Jesus?

Prayer:

Lord, I am tired of my slavery to myself. Free me from self-centeredness to become a servant of yours. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

October 21, 2009

Intro:“Body Building”

Today, Paul speaks a lot about our physical bodies. The reason he does so it that there was a tendency in the ancient world to make light of the body and merely consider it not as important as the intellect or soul. Paul however was a Jew and the body in Jewish thought was inseparable from the soul and mind. For a Jew, the body was holy too—hence the entire moral codes about sexual purity. What shape is your body in?

Reading:  Romans 6:12-14

Brothers and sisters:

Sin must not reign over your mortal bodies

so that you obey their desires.

And do not present the parts of your bodies to sin

as weapons for wickedness,

but present yourselves to God as raised from the dead to life

and the parts of your bodies to God

as weapons for righteousness.

For sin is not to have any power over you,

since you are not under the law but under grace.

Discuss:

1.Are you in control of your body? 

2.Are you giving God your all? Your entire body, mind, spirit?

3.Do you know that God grace can keep you pure? It is your choice!

Prayer:

God, I am tired of giving you bits and pieces of my life. This morning I offer you all of me! Use me according to your purposes. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

October 20, 2009

Intro:“Jewish Logic”

The Apostle Paul gives us impeccable logic as follows:

BAD NEWS

Sin entered the world via one man (Adam). We all inherited the sin-gene so to speak.

Sin brought death to the human race.  The human gene pool was tainted by physical death.

GOOD NEWS

The second Adam (Jesus—full deity and humanity) did not sin.

The second Adam blesses us beyond what we would expect –amazing grace!

Reading:  Romans 5:12, 15b

Brothers and sisters: Through one man sin entered the world, and through sin, death, and thus death came to all men, inasmuch as all sinned.

If by that one person’s transgression the many died, how much more did the grace of God

and the gracious gift of the one man Jesus Christ overflow for the many.

For if, by the transgression of the one, death came to reign through that one,

how much more will those who receive the abundance of grace and the gift of justification come to reign in life through the one Jesus Christ.

Discuss:

1.How does Paul’s argument explain the broken world in which we live?

2.See how many ways you can find in the above passage Jesus blesses us with Good New?

Prayer:

God, I thank you that you have left to us your written word so that we might have hope in this life and the life to come. Help me to bear the Good News to everyone I meet. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

October 19, 2009

Intro:“Doctrine Revisited”

Last week we looked briefly at the life of Abraham. Abe (for short) believed (trusted) in God to do several things: One to make him the Father of many nations; Two: to give him a son when he and his wife Sarah were elderly. And Finally: To give him a new home away from his present home. In our reading today Abe trusted God, and therefore God credited to him as righteousness.  In other word Abraham was OK with God on the basis of trust, not of works--thus the great DOCTRINE of the Bible.

JUSTIFCATION BY FAITH.

Reading:  Romans 4:20-25

Brothers and sisters:

Abraham did not doubt God’s promise in unbelief;

rather, he was empowered by faith and gave glory to God

and was fully convinced that what God had promised

he was also able to do.

That is why it was credited to him as righteousness.

But it was not for him alone that it was written

that it was credited to him;

it was also for us, to whom it will be credited,

who believe in the one who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead,

who was handed over for our transgressions

and was raised for our justification.

Discuss:

1.Do you believe Jesus is able to save you from your sin and grant you eternal life? If your answer is “yes”; welcome to God’s family! You see the Good News is that Jesus is your righteousness (“right standing”) with God.

2.Who can you share this good news with this week?

Prayer:

Father, I thank you for granting me salvation by faith in Jesus alone. Help me to share the Good News of Jesus’ love this week with others. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

October 16, 2009

Intro:“Doctrine,  Anyone?”

Tennis,  anyone? Do I have any takers? Call me and we can get in a late game this week.

Doctrine,  anyone?   Below is a doctrine—a basic element of the Christian belief system. 

Reading:  Romans 4:1-3

Indeed, if Abraham was justified on the basis of his works,

he has reason to boast; but this was not so in the sight of God.

For what does the Scripture say? Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.

Discuss:

1.What are the basics for your beliefs?

2.If you trust (same meaning of belief) God you are right with God (the meaning of righteousness).

3.Do you trust Jesus for your salvation?

Prayer:

Father, I thank you so much that Jesus is the basis of my right standing with you. He led a perfect holy life for me and the world. I pray that I may trust in Jesus alone and let others know too about his awesome love. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

October 15, 2009

Intro:“I Fought the Law and the Law Won!”

Do you remember the song, “I Fought the Law and the Law Won”? There have been several versions of it over the years. I recall the 1965 version by Bobby Fuller Four and a newer version  by the Clash in 1976. The song is a ballad about a person who fought the law and lost the battle. The law wins out eventually and the outlaws get nabbed by the authorities.

When the Bible speaks of the Law it means the commandments of God in the Old Testament. God commands what is good, just and true. The problem is that we cannot keep the law (See Romans chapter 7). The Law merely exposes our inability to be good. The law exposes our need for a Savior (read Romans 8:1-17).

Do you want to be right with God? Then you must trust Jesus for salvation not the law!

Reading:  Romans 3:20

“No one will be declared righteous in his (God’s) sight by observing the law; rather through the law we become conscious of sin.”

Discuss:

1.What is the basis for your standing with God? Is it your self-effort? If it is you will fail miserably.

2.Have you found forgiveness for your sin in Jesus?

Prayer:

Jesus, I confess to you that I cannot keep the commandments of the Bible by my effort. I need you and your unconditional love. The Law put me into prison. Thank you for paying the price for my freedom on the cross. Allow me now to live in freedom by the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

October 14, 2009

Intro:“Religion Gone Bad”

Jesus makes scathing remarks concerning the practice of Pharisaical religion.  See how many issues Jesus illuminates and then take the self-examine after the reading.

Reading:  Luke 11:42-46

The Lord said: “Woe to you Pharisees! You pay tithes of mint and of rue and of every garden herb, but you pay no attention to judgment and to love for God. These you should have done, without overlooking the others. Woe to you Pharisees! You love the seat of honor in synagogues and greetings in marketplaces.  Woe to you! You are like unseen graves over which people unknowingly walk.”

Then one of the scholars of the law said to him in reply, “Teacher, by saying this you are insulting us too.” And he said, “Woe also to you scholars of the law! You impose on people burdens hard to carry, but you yourselves do not lift one finger to touch them.”

Self-Examination:

1.Do you tithe? That means you give 10 percent of your money to the church?

2.Are you a student of the Scriptures?

If you answered “yes” to the above…very good: however the Pharisees did that too!

3.Do you love people? I mean to you really help lift the burdens of others by your involvement into their lives?

If you answered “yes” then you have separated yourself from the Pharisees.

4.Do you like to be noticed for you piety or religiosity?

5.Do you expect others to meet your imposed criteria of religious practice?

Oh oh!   If  you said “yes” to 4 and 5.

Prayer:

Jesus, I want to practice my faith so that I practice it from the inside out. Live in me! I need your cleansing or I too become a critical person who merely goes through the motions of external religiosity without any compassion. Have mercy on my soul. Amen.  

* * * * * * * * * *

October 13, 2009

Intro:Table Manners

“Eat all the foods on your plate for there are hungry people in China who have no food to eat. Do not feed the dog at the table. Use your napkin and not the back of your hand to wipe your mouth. Keep your elbows off the table. Chew your food with your mouth closed. Did you wash your hands? Let me see your hands!” The above words were a mantra that mom gave us when we grew up.

Jesus was invited to the home of a Pharisee and Jesus it seems violated proper table etiquette. Read on.

Reading:  Luke 11:37-40

37When Jesus had finished speaking, a Pharisee invited him to eat with him; so he went in and reclined at the table. 38But the Pharisee, noticing that Jesus did not first wash before the meal, was surprised.

39Then the Lord said to him, "Now then, you Pharisees clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside you are full of greed and wickedness. 40You foolish people! Did not the one who made the outside make the inside also?

Discuss:

1.If Jesus were to be your dinner guest, what would be the center of your conversation?

2.How clean are your insides? (your soul)

3. Do you go to church and simply go thru the motions of being “religious”?

4.Do you have a passion to know Jesus and be cleansed by him?

Prayer:

Jesus, help me not to be a phony. I ask you to be my guest at dinner guest. I hope I can get to know you beyond external shallow ritual and religion. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

October 12, 2009

Intro:“Well, the nerve!”

Jesus has a way of making me uneasy. Jesus says forthright things that sting my sensibilities. For instance in our reading today, Jesus said, “This generation is an evil generation…” Well, the nerve of him!

Now if I was the Messiah, I would tone it down a bit. I might try to soften the words and choose a more diplomatic approach to reach people. Jesus might hire someone to spin his sermons so as to not offend.  I need to ask the question: Do I want truth no matter how much I may at first be offended or do I need words to make me think and turn to God?

Read on.

Reading:  Luke 11:29-32

While still more people gathered in the crowd, Jesus said to them, “This generation is an evil generation; it seeks a sign, but no sign will be given it, except the sign of Jonah. Just as Jonah became a sign to the Ninevites, so will the Son of Man be to this generation. At the judgment the queen of the south will rise with the men of this generation and she will condemn them, because she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and there is something greater than Solomon here. At the judgment the men of Nineveh will arise with this generation and condemn it, because at the preaching of Jonah they repented, and there is something greater than Jonah here.”

Discuss:

1.Have you read the New Testament? Do the words of Jesus offend you or help you to see God more clearly?

2.Have you accepted Jesus’ words regarding your need to repent?

Prayer:

Jesus, your life is recorded in the Gospels so that I may be a listener to your words. Thank you for loving me so much that you are willing to tell me the truth so that I might be awakened out of my lethargy and phony sophistication and turn to you.  Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

October 8, 2009

Intro:Does it Pay to Serve God?

The prophet Malachi (the last prophet in the Old Testament) listens to the complaints of fellow believers “It is vain to serve God, and what do we profit by keeping his command, and going about in penitential dress in awe of the Lord of hosts?”  The people of God were trying to be faithful to God but were in misery. They were dominated by pagans politically and were suffering economically. How could this be since they were God’s chosen people? To add insult to injury , the wicked pagan oppressors lived in luxury and ease. 

Perhaps you feel that way. Read on and discover what God says about this enigma.

Reading:  Malachi 3:13-20b

You have defied me in word, says the Lord, yet you ask, “What have we spoken against you?” You have said, “It is vain to serve God, and what do we profit by keeping his command, and going about in penitential dress in awe of the Lord of hosts?

Rather must we call the proud blessed; for indeed evildoers prosper, and even tempt God with impunity?” Then they who fear the Lord spoke with one another, and the Lord listened attentively; and a record book was written before him of those who fear the Lord and trust in his name. And they shall be mine, says the Lord of hosts, my own special possession, on the day I take action. And I will have compassion on them, as a man has compassion on his son who serves him. Then you will again see the distinction

between the just and the wicked; between the one who serves God, and the one who does not serve him. For lo, the day is coming, blazing like an oven, when all the proud and all evildoers will be stubble,  And the day that is coming will set them on fire leaving them neither root nor branch, says the Lord of hosts. But for you who fear my name, there will arise the sun of justice with its healing rays.

Discuss:

1.What does God say about the injustice of believers suffering? Does that bring you comfort? Will you still serve God?

2.God says he will make it all right one day, how does Jesus fulfill this promise?

3.other observations…

Prayer:

God I fear (holy reverence) your name. You are good; however there are times when I am impatient for justice to come my way.  You are faithful, so help me to trust you in this life so that I may be prepared for the life to come. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

October 7, 2009

Intro:“You’re invited to a Pity Party”

The other day I was not having a good day. I will not spare you the details. And then it occurred to me that if I threw a lavish pity party still no one would show up!

Jonah was throwing a huge pity party and God showed up and rightfully scolded him. Jonah was upset that God spared the people he preached repentance to. Jonah was stuck in his self-righteousness and holier than thou attitude. You see God loved the Ninevites and he loves you too. Read on.

Reading:  Jonah 4:1-11

Jonah was greatly displeased and became angry that God did not carry out the evil he threatened against Nineveh. He prayed, “I beseech you, LORD, is not this what I said while I was still in my own country? This is why I fled at first to Tarshish. I knew that you are a gracious and merciful God, slow to anger, rich in clemency, loathe to punish. And now, LORD, please take my life from me; for it is better for me to die than to live.” But the LORD asked, “Have you reason to be angry?” 

Jonah then left the city for a place to the east of it, where he built himself a hut and waited under it in the shade, to see what would happen to the city. And when the LORD God provided a gourd plant that grew up over Jonah’s head, giving shade that relieved him of any discomfort,

Jonah was very happy over the plant. But the next morning at dawn God sent a worm that attacked the plant, so that it withered. And when the sun arose, God sent a burning east wind;

and the sun beat upon Jonah’s head till he became faint. Then Jonah asked for death, saying,

“I would be better off dead than alive.”

But God said to Jonah, “Have you reason to be angry over the plant?” “I have reason to be angry,” Jonah answered, “angry enough to die.” Then the LORD said, “You are concerned over the plant which cost you no labor and which you did not raise; it came up in one night and in one night it perished. And should I not be concerned over Nineveh, the great city, in which there are more than a hundred and twenty thousand persons who cannot distinguish their right hand from their left, not to mention the many cattle?”

Discuss:

1.Jonah said to God “I knew that you are a gracious and merciful God, slow to anger, rich in clemency, loathe to punish.” Yet, why do you think Jonah still would not soften his heart to the Ninevites?

2.In spite of Jonah’s poor attitude God used him to turn the Ninevites to holiness. How does this speak about the power of God’s word?

3.God gives Jonah an object lesson using a “plant.”  What object lessons has God been using in your life lately? Are you getting the message?

4.other observations…

Prayer:

God use me to rescue others and give me a willing heart to do so. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

October 6, 2009

Intro:“God Repents”

Huh? God Repents!?!  I thought God was perfect and pure and only people needed to repent? Why then do we find these words in the book of Jonah, “When God saw by their actions how they (the Ninevites) turned from their evil way, he repented of the evil that he had threatened to do to them; he did not carry it out.”?

To answer this question let’s first review:

God sends Jonah to Nineveh to tell the pagan people there that God was to destroy their city for the evil and wickedness in it. Jonah is disobedient to God and instead takes a boat ride to avoid talking to the Ninevites.  Jonah is then swallowed by a large fish and on the third day is vomited on the shore near Nineveh.

Now back to the issue before us: God repents (changes his mind) because God loves the Ninevites and people who repent! God will not abide with evil and so loved the world that he sent his Son to Calvary’s cross for you and me. See John 3:16 and Mark 10:45.

Reading:  Jonah 3:1-10

The word of the LORD came to Jonah a second time: “Set out for the great city of Nineveh, and announce to it the message that I will tell you.” So Jonah made ready and went to Nineveh, according to the Lord’s bidding. Now Nineveh was an enormously large city; it took three days to go through it. Jonah began his journey through the city, and had gone but a single day’s walk announcing, “Forty days more and Nineveh shall be destroyed,” when the people of Nineveh believed God; they proclaimed a fast and all of them, great and small,  put on sackcloth.

When the news reached the king of Nineveh, he rose from his throne, laid aside his robe, covered himself with sackcloth, and sat in the ashes. Then he had this proclaimed throughout Nineveh, by decree of the king and his nobles: “Neither man nor beast, neither cattle nor sheep, shall taste anything; they shall not eat, nor shall they drink water.  Man and beast shall be covered with sackcloth and call loudly to God; every man shall turn from his evil way and from the violence he has in hand. Who knows, God may relent and forgive, and withhold his blazing wrath, so that we shall not perish.” When God saw by their actions how they turned from their evil way, he repented of the evil that he had threatened to do to them; he did not carry it out.

Discuss:

1.Have you repented (turned away—changed your mind and course of action) from your evil ways?

2.If not, why not?

Prayer:

God, just as you spared the Ninevites, so I ask you to spare my life too. Have mercy on my soul and help me to follow you in obedience all the days you allot for me. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

October 5, 2009

Intro:“Jonah and the Big Fish”

Most people associate Jonah with a large fish that swallowed him.  You know the story, how Jonah did not want to do God’s will to preach repentance to a pagan people of Nineveh so he turned and set sail where he met a large fish.

We tend to obsess about the kind of fish that housed Jonah rather than the message Jonah was to give.  God instructed Jonah to tell the Ninevites to repent which they eventually did! What a miracle--the miracle of repentance---the miracle of people turning from sin and serving God with new purity!

Reading:  Jonah 1:1-2:,11

This is the word of the LORD that came to Jonah, son of Amittai: “Set out for the great city of Nineveh, and preach against it; their wickedness has come up before me.” But Jonah made ready to flee to Tarshish away from the LORD. He went down to Joppa, found a ship going to Tarshish, paid the fare, and went aboard to journey with them to Tarshish, away from the LORD.

(You may want to read more of the text at the bottom of today's devotion)

Discuss:

1.Do you know that God loves all nations—even Muslim nations.

2.Are there people in your life that you need to lovingly confront so that they might change their ways and follow God?

Prayer:

God, you love all people and desire them to repent so that they can a relationship with you. Give me courage to lovingly challenge people to follow you.  Amen.

MORE OF THE TEXT OF JONAH

The LORD, however, hurled a violent wind upon the sea, and in the furious tempest that arose the ship was on the point of breaking up. Then the mariners became frightened and each one cried to his god. To lighten the ship for themselves, they threw its cargo into the sea. Meanwhile, Jonah had gone down into the hold of the ship, and lay there fast asleep. The captain came to him and said, “What are you doing asleep? Rise up, call upon your God! Perhaps God will be mindful of us so that we may not perish.”

Then they said to one another, “Come, let us cast lots to find out on whose account we have met with this misfortune.” So they cast lots, and thus singled out Jonah. “Tell us,” they said, “what is your business? Where do you come from? What is your country, and to what people do you belong?” Jonah answered them, “I am a Hebrew, I worship the LORD, the God of heaven, who made the sea and the dry land.”

* * * * * * * * * *

October 2, 2009

Intro:“I am the Greatest”

Mohammad Ali, the famous heavy weight boxer, received world attention when he predicted a boxing victory over Sonny Liston and boldly exclaimed, “I am the greatest.”  Ali was a great boxer and he added “I'll be floating like a butterfly and stinging like a bee.”  The rest is history, Ali became the champion.

Jesus said “unless you turn and become like children, you will not enter the Kingdom of heaven.”  In our world many people scratch and claw to make it to the top only to find shallow victory.  The rich, talented, and, powerful receive recognition only to later die and be forgotten. Jesus gives us another way. His way is childlike relationship with the Father.  Read on.

Reading:  Matthew 18:1-5, 10

The disciples approached Jesus and said, “Who is the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven?”

He called a child over, placed it in their midst, and said, “Amen, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will not enter the Kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven. And whoever receives one child such as this in my name receives me.  “See that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I say to you that their angels in heaven always look upon the face of my heavenly Father.”

Discuss:

1.Do you have a living relationship with God the Father?

2.Do you treat all people fairly?

3.As you think about today’s reading, how can you become more childlike? Note: not “childish.”

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, I am so glad you called me to be your son/daughter and I delight in your Son, Jesus my Lord. Today, help me to trust you and learn your ways. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

October 1, 2009

Intro:“Backpacking for Jesus”

I recently bragged about going out into the wilderness for 2 nights and 3 days with all my gear weighing in at less than 20 pounds. The list: backpack, tent, sleeping bag, stove, food, clothing, first aid kit and a Bible. Am I still bragging? Bear with me.

Jesus gives us an even lighter weigh in! We are to pack lightly in this life so that we can be single minded to the purpose of loving people and winning their heart to Jesus. Read on.

Reading:  Luke 10: 1-12

Jesus appointed seventy-two other disciples whom he sent ahead of him in pairs to every town and place he intended to visit. He said to them, “The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few; so ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest. Go on your way; behold, I am sending you like lambs among wolves. Carry no money bag, no sack, and no sandals; and greet no one along the way. Into whatever house you enter, first say, ‘Peace to this household.’ If a peaceful person lives there, your peace will rest on him; but if not, it will return to you. Stay in the same house and eat and drink what is offered to you, for the laborer deserves his payment. Do not move about from one house to another. Whatever town you enter and they welcome you, eat what is set before you, cure the sick in it and say to them, ‘The Kingdom of God is at hand for you.’ Whatever town you enter and they do not receive you, go out into the streets and say, ‘The dust of your town that clings to our feet, even that we shake off against you.’ Yet know this: the Kingdom of God is at hand. I tell you, it will be more tolerable for Sodom on that day than for that town.”

Discuss:

1.Is your backpack too heavy? Are you carrying concerns that overload your effectiveness for winning others to Christ?

2.Are you obedient to Jesus’ instructions about caring for others?

3.What mission has Jesus given you?

Prayer:

Holy Father, I want to travel lightly in this life so that I can carry out your purposes for my life. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

September 29, 2009

Intro:“Martyrs”

Today’s news focuses on Iranian missile tests that threaten the mid east and possibly the entire world. Diplomacy between major world leaders is going on at a fevered pitch to prevent Iran from furthering its nuclear ambitions. We live in dangerous times.

Our reading today is about war too; a cosmic war whereby Christians are suffering for their faith in Jesus. The symbolism is vivid and believers win the war against evil by their faith in Jesus often at the cost of their own blood. They were faithful witnesses of Jesus. Did you know that the Greek word we translate “witness” has the root word martyr?

Reading:  Revelation 12:7-12b

War broke out in heaven; Michael and his angels battled against the dragon.

The dragon and its angels fought back, but they did not prevail and there was no longer any place for them in heaven. The huge dragon, the ancient serpent, who is called the Devil and Satan, who deceived the whole world, was thrown down to earth, and its angels were thrown down with it.

Then I heard a loud voice in heaven say: “Now have salvation and power come, and the Kingdom of our God and the authority of his Anointed. For the accuser of our brothers is cast out, who accuses them before our God day and night. They conquered him by the Blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; love for life did not deter them from death. Therefore, rejoice you heavens, and you who dwell in them.”

Discuss:

1.Did you know that you are engaged in a cosmic battle? Read Ephesians 6:10-20.

2.Are you willing to spill your blood for Jesus?

3.Are you faithful in telling others about our Lord and His victory over sin and death by his spilling of blood on Calvary’s cross?

Prayer:

God, I want to be found faithful to you. Since your Son died for me I want to say thank you and please grant me courage to overcome the enemy by living for Jesus. Give me your Spirit to conquer evil. It is to your glory I pray. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

September 28, 2009

Intro:“Nothing is Impossible with God—really?"

You might expect a pastor to say “nothing is impossible with God” and yet I really have my seasons of doubt that God will come through for me or for the people I serve. It is not as if I do not know the “correct” answer---I know God is faithful. My problem is that I am not!

God’s people (in our reading today) were not faithful to God. They had abandoned his ways and found themselves in captivity under pagan rule and domination. Not in their wildest dreams did they think God would favor them again. They deserved judgment in their rejection of God. 

You may be such a person who says “God, I have blown it big time! I cannot expect you to favor me again with your peace and joy and blessing. I will accept my lot as a second class citizen of yours. Pay attention to those who are honoring you.”  God has other ideas about you. Read on.

Reading:  Zechariah 8:1-8

The word of the Lord of hosts came: Thus says the Lord of hosts: I am intensely jealous for Zion, stirred to jealous wrath for her. Thus says the Lord: I will return to Zion, and I will dwell within Jerusalem; Jerusalem shall be called the faithful city, and the mountain of the Lord of hosts, the holy mountain. Thus says the Lord of hosts:  Old men and old women, each with staff in hand because of old age, shall again sit in the streets of Jerusalem. The city shall be filled with boys and girls playing in its streets. Thus says the Lord of hosts: Even if this should seem impossible in the eyes of the remnant of this people, shall it in those days be impossible in my eyes also, says the Lord of hosts? Thus says the Lord of hosts: Lo, I will rescue my people from the land of the rising sun, and from the land of the setting sun. I will bring them back to dwell within Jerusalem. They shall be my people, and I will be their God, with faithfulness and justice

Discuss:

1.In the reading above, what images impress you?

2.Have you experienced God’s undeserved forgiveness in your life?

3.Is God personal to you?

Prayer:

God, I want to know you even in my failures. I desire to experience you love in fresh ways. Renew my spirit and put a new spirit in my so that I again may praise and serve you forever. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

September 25, 2009

Intro:“Rebuilding Lives”

We are in the book of Haggai. The prophet promises God’s people that they will again be blessed by God as they work on rebuilding a place of worship. There previous place had been destroyed by their enemies because of disobedience to God. Yet, God does not give up on his people and once again encourages them to rebuild not only the place of worship but their lives as well.  

I find that when I rebuild my life around worship of God my failures and fears disappear.

Reading:  taken from Haggai 2:1-9

Who is left among you that saw this house in its former glory? And how do you see it now? Does it not seem like nothing in your eyes? But now take courage, Zerubbabel, says the Lord, and take courage, Joshua, high priest, son of Jehozadak, and take courage, all you people of the land, says the Lord, and work! For I am with you, says the Lord of hosts. This is the pact that I made with you when you came out of Egypt, and my spirit continues in your midst; do not fear!

Discuss:

1.Do you know that God is at work in you by his Spirit when you take up his agenda?

2.Which do you worship--self or God?

3.Who has encouraged you lately? Have you encouraged others lately?  

4.Have you turned over your fears to God?

Prayer:

God, today I trust in your goodness and not my performance. I thank you for not giving up on me. Help me Lord to rebuild my life around worshipping you.  Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

September 24, 2009

Intro:“Money Bags with Holes”

Did you know the phrase “money bag with holes” most likely came from the Bible? In our passage today, the prophet says that when we live for ourselves first rather than God we find ourselves devalued so to speak. All our efforts get out of sync and we find disappointment and remorse.

However, if we actually put God first then life finds depth and purpose. Read on.

Reading:  Haggai 1:1-8

On the first day of the sixth month in the second year of King Darius, The word of the Lord came through the prophet Haggai to the governor of Judah, Zerubbabel, son of Shealtiel,

and to the high priest Joshua, son of Jehozadak: Thus says the Lord of hosts:  This people says:

“The time has not yet come to rebuild the house of the Lord.” (Then this word of the Lord came through Haggai, the prophet :) Is it time for you to dwell in your own paneled houses,

while this house lies in ruins?

Now thus says the LORD of hosts: Consider your ways! You have sown much, but have brought in little; you have eaten, but have not been satisfied; You have drunk, but have not been exhilarated;  have clothed yourselves, but not been warmed; And whoever earned wages

earned them for a bag with holes in it.   Thus says the Lord of hosts:  Consider your ways!

Go up into the hill country; bring timber, and build the house That I may take pleasure in it and receive my glory, says the Lord.

Discuss:

1.Does church life come first for you?

2.Do you tithe?

3.Are you a servant of self?

Prayer:

God, I want to be in sync with you and your ways. Show me your ways that I might place you first in my life and in turn find true value. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

September 23, 2009

Intro:Training for Success

Jesus prepared his disciples to carry on his ministry. He knew that he would die on a cross for the sins of the world and that after his ascension to heaven his followers would need to be equipped to continue his ministry. Jesus passes the baton so to speak by two steps.  One: He taught God’s word and modeled God’s ways. Two: He sent out his disciples to do what he did.

Reading:  Luke 9:1-6

Jesus summoned the Twelve and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, and he sent them to proclaim the Kingdom of God and to heal the sick. He said to them, “Take nothing for the journey, neither walking stick, nor sack, nor food, nor money,

and let no one take a second tunic. Whatever house you enter, stay there and leave from there.

And as for those who do not welcome you, when you leave that town, shake the dust from your feet in testimony against them.” Then they set out and went from village to village proclaiming the good news and curing diseases everywhere.

Discuss:

1.Who models/mentors you in your faith walk?

2.Do you mentor other new believers?

Prayer:

God, show me your ways and help me to be an apprentice to carry on the ministry of my Lord. Connect me with other mature believers so I may learn from them. In turn may I mentor and coach new believers to serve you as well. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

September 22, 2009

Intro:It’s Fun to Go to Church

“It’s fun to go to church, it’s fun to go to church, with all the other girls and boys; it’s fun to go to church.” Perhaps you know these words as a youngster when your Sunday school teacher taught you this ditty. Now, as an adult you may be more sophisticated and use another word other than “fun.”

What word would you use?

Reading:  Ps 122:1-2, 3-4ab, 4cd-5

I rejoiced because they said to me,

“We will go up to the house of the LORD.”

And now we have set foot

within your gates, O Jerusalem.

Let us go rejoicing to the house of the Lord.

Jerusalem, built as a city with compact unity.

To it the tribes go up, the tribes of the LORD.

According to the decree for Israel,

to give thanks to the name of the LORD.

In it are set up judgment seats,

seats for the house of David.

Discuss:

1.Are you expectant with faith when you go to church?

2.Do you go to church to worship God with joy?

Prayer:

Forgive me God when I make excuses not to go to church. Forgive me when I consider worship a religious chore and duty rather than a sacred privilege. Help me to worship you in Spirit and truth. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * *

September 21, 2009

Intro:A Day in Jail

Last Monday, I challenged you not to complain. How are you doing in this regard? Is it really possible to live a life free of complaints? Yes!

Paul the Apostle writes to believers from prison and there is no hint of self-pity or any kind of negativity. Rather, he encourages us to “live in a manner worthy of the call” as a Christian. Then in typical fashion Paul lists character traits we are to exhibit; “all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another through love, striving to preserve the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.

Also, Paul reminds us that we are to demonstrate unity. This is not surprising for Jesus prayed in John 17:20-21, that future believers would prove the reality of faith by our love and unity.

Reading:  Ephesians 4:1-3

Brothers and sisters:  I, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to live in a manner worthy of the call you have received, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another through love, striving to preserve the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”

Discuss:

1.Do other people note you positive outlook on life?

2.Do circumstances rule your life? Do you overcome adversity with poise?

Prayer:

Holy Father, I pray that you would live in me in such a way by the power of the Holy Spirit that I might overcome adversity with your grace. May others see Jesus in me.  Amen.

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September 18, 2009

Intro:The Root of All Evils

You most likely know that money is not the root of all evils; rather it is the love of money that is!  It is interesting to note how much financial matters dominate our lives. If we allow materialism to bite us then we are on a slippery slope to spiritual ruin. Paul calls it a “trap.”

Challenge: Are you content with what you have materially?  Read the following and decide.

Reading:  1 Timothy 6:2c-12

Beloved: Teach and urge these things. Whoever teaches something different and does not agree with the sound words of our Lord Jesus Christ and the religious teaching is conceited,  understanding nothing, and has a morbid disposition for arguments and verbal disputes.

From these come envy, rivalry, insults, evil suspicions, and mutual friction among people with corrupted minds, who are deprived of the truth, supposing religion to be a means of gain.

Indeed, religion with contentment is a great gain. For we brought nothing into the world,

just as we shall not be able to take anything out of it. If we have food and clothing, we shall be content with that. Those who want to be rich are falling into temptation and into a trap

and into many foolish and harmful desires, which plunge them into ruin and destruction.

For the love of money is the root of all evils, and some people in their desire for it have strayed from the faith and have pierced themselves with many pains.

But you, man of God, avoid all this. Instead, pursue righteousness, devotion, faith, love, patience, and gentleness. Compete well for the faith. Lay hold of eternal life, to which you were called when you made the noble confession in the presence of many witnesses.

Discuss:

1.How has money affected your life for good or ill?

2.Are you generous with your financial resources that God has given to you?

3.In the reading above, what is the common denominator of false teachers (most televangelists)?

4.Are you pursuing righteousness, devotion, faith, love, patience, and gentleness?

Prayer:

God, help me to know that my soul is more valuable than my pursuit of money. Teach me contentment as I trust in your provision. Draw me to yourself that I may grow in godly attributes. Help me to lay hold of eternal life that s in your Son. Amen.

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September 17, 2009

Intro:How Goes Your Walk?

How do you stay in physical shape? Do you say “no” to fast food and lay down the TV remote control and take a walk or go to the gym to work out? If not, I want to encourage you to stay in physical shape so that you will be healthier to serve others more years on this planet.

I also want to encourage you to be in good spiritual shape as well.  How goes your walk with Jesus? Is it alive and vibrant? Are you spiritually healthy? Do you know and demonstrate his love? Can others see your progress?

Reading:  1 Timothy 4:12-16

Beloved: Let no one have contempt for your youth, but set an example for those who believe,

in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity. Until I arrive, attend to the reading, exhortation, and teaching. Do not neglect the gift you have, which was conferred on you through the prophetic word with the imposition of hands by the church leaders. Be diligent in these matters; be absorbed in them, so that your progress may be evident to everyone. Attend to yourself and to your teaching; persevere in both tasks, for by doing so you will save both yourself and those who listen to you.

Discuss:

1.Who has been influential in getting you in spiritual shape?

2.What are some of the gifts God has given you to serve others?

3.Are you willing to be a marathon believer—to run the long race of faith?

4.Are you are person of godly character?

Prayer:

Lord, help me to live as an example to others. I thank you for the gifts you have given me and the help of church leaders to assist me in my growth in you. Grant me grace and power to live for you so I can serve others well. Motivate me to be spiritually fit. Amen.

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September 16, 2009

Intro:“Solving a Mystery”

I love thriller mysteries—especially “who done it” movies?  In our reading today, Paul continues to mentor his son in the faith, Timothy. Paul says, “…great is the mystery.” Paul solves God’s mystery—namely that Jesus has been “manifested in the flesh.”  Why?  “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son so that whosoever believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16) 

Reading:  1 Tim 3:14-16

Beloved: I am writing you, although I hope to visit you soon. But if I should be delayed, you should know how to behave in the household of God, which is the Church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of truth. Undeniably great is the mystery of our devotion, who was manifested in the flesh, vindicated in the spirit, seen by angels,

proclaimed to the Gentiles,  believed in throughout the world, taken up in glory.

Discuss:

1.Have you solved the “great mystery?” Do you know Jesus as your Lord and Savior? Are you devoted to Jesus?

2.Have you thanked God for helping you solve the “mystery”?

3.Are you letting others know about God’s thriller?

Prayer:

God, please continue to reveal Jesus to me. I want to know him more so that I can love you and serve others better. Amen.

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September 15, 2009

Intro: “Character Matters”

Do you recall the recent (and yes repeating) political scandal:  “Character does not matter; just as long as you do your job?” Or stated another way: “What you do in the privacy of your home or oval office does not matter—just so long as you get your work done!” A lot of people bought into this argument. Read the following and see what the Bible says.

Reading:  1 Timothy 3: 1:-13

Beloved, this saying is trustworthy: whoever aspires to the office of bishop desires a noble task. Therefore, a bishop must be irreproachable, married only once, temperate, self-controlled, decent, hospitable, able to teach, not a drunkard, not aggressive, but gentle, not contentious, not a lover of money. He must manage his own household well, keeping his children under control with perfect dignity; for if a man does not know how to manage his own household, how can he take care of the Church of God?

He should not be a recent convert, so that he may not become conceited and thus incur the Devil’s punishment. He must also have a good reputation among outsiders, so that he may not fall into disgrace, the Devil’s trap. Similarly, deacons must be dignified, not deceitful, not addicted to drink, not greedy for sordid gain, holding fast to the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. Moreover, they should be tested first; then, if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons. Women, similarly, should be dignified, not slanderers, but temperate and faithful in everything. Deacons may be married only once and must manage their children and their households well.

Thus those who serve well as deacons gain good standing and much confidence in their faith in Christ Jesus.

Discuss:

1.Leadership (bishop/elder/pastor) in the church is a sacred honor. Do you aspire to leadership in the church?

2.Who are your role models in your life? In your church?

3.In the reading above, what character traits do you need to work on?

Prayer:

God, I aspire to walk the talk. I desire to honor your Son. I need the power of the Holy Spirit to transform my life so that my character will matter. Amen.

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September 14, 2009

Intro:“Complaints Department”

Challenge: Today is Monday and let me challenge you today not to complain! Here are things that immediately come to mind:  congested traffic, long lines at the market, rising costs of living, other motorists, your boss, government leaders, your husband, your wife, your pastor, your job, your finances, your looks, your weight, your work associates, your parents…I think you get the idea. Let me know how you do.

Reading:  Numbers 4b-9

With their patience worn out by the journey, the people complained against God and Moses, “Why have you brought us up from Egypt to die in this desert, where there is no food or water? We are disgusted with this wretched food!”

In punishment the LORD sent among the people serpents, which bit the people so that many of them died. Then the people came to Moses and said, “We have sinned in complaining against the LORD and you. Pray the LORD to take the serpents from us.” So Moses prayed for the people, and the LORD said to Moses, “Make a serpent and mount it on a pole, and if any who have been bitten look at it, they will live. ”Moses accordingly made a bronze serpent and mounted it on a pole, and whenever anyone who had been bitten by a serpent looked at the bronze serpent, he lived.

Discuss:

1.Are you a positive person? Ask a trusted friend to give you honest feedback.

2.How does impatience hurt you? Others around you? Your Christian witness?

3.Do you see complaining as your right? Or do you see it as sin? (read the scripture above).

4.The serpent in today’s reading is a type of cross. If we will stop complaining and turn to the cross, we then will find forgiveness and a reason to give words of thanks rather than complaint.

Prayer:

God, forgive my complaining that so easily entraps me in negativity. Replace my negativity with praise and thanksgiving. Amen.

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September 11, 2009

Intro:“Life-Change Biography”

Can you summarize your life in 75 words or less? Use the space below:     

Reading:  1Timothy 1:12-14

I am grateful to him who has strengthened me, Christ Jesus our Lord, because he considered me trustworthy in appointing me to the ministry. I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and an arrogant man, but I have been mercifully treated because I acted out of ignorance in my unbelief. Indeed, the grace of our Lord has been abundant, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.

Discuss:

1.Does your summary include Christ?

2.Have you experienced a positive life-change because of Jesus?

Prayer:

God, I want my life to be transformed by Jesus. I pray that I might experience the grace of God via my faith in your Son. Thank you Father. Amen.

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September 10, 2009

Intro:"When Same-ness is Good"

We humans tend to get bored easily. If you have a teenager you may have heard, "I am bored, there is nothing to do around here." My parents never let me get away with that.         I could expect an instate response meted out in a chore to do--like mowing the lawn.

No matter our age, we desire to have life be stimulating. It just so happens that the routines of our existence often bore us. We look for the new! You were designed to have purpose in your life that would make it wonderful to arise in the morning and say, "I wonder what God has in store for me today?"

You can have this "non-boring" life when you have Jesus as your constant companion. If you take a look at his life you will notice that his life was an adventure everyday as he followed the Father's will and loved upon people.

Reading:  Hebrews 13:8

"Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, today and forever."

Discuss:

1.Is Jesus a part of your daily routine?

2.Do you practice his presence?

3.Are you aware of how he can brighten your day?

Prayer:

Jesus, today I invite you to be my constant companion as I go about your life in me. Thank you for the Holy Spirit that makes you real to me and for this day when even in the sameness of a routine, you are there making it ever new. Amen.

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September 9, 2009

Intro:Ladder of Success

Someone recently used the story of a man whose life was a struggle to climb the ladder of success and he managed to climb to the top of the ladder only to find that his ladder was leaning upon the wrong wall.

In today’s brief reading Paul admonishes us to “seek what is above.” I know this sounds really mystical and not “practical.” How can we lean our ladders on a wall we cannot see…in a place “above”?

Let me suggest that we lean our ladders on the solid person of Jesus.

Reading:  Colossians 3:1-3

Brothers and sisters: If you were raised with Christ, seek what is above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Think of what is above, not of what is on earth; for you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ your life appears, then you too will appear with him in glory.

Discuss:

1.What are you leaning your ladder upon? Material success? Status? Kodak moments? People’s approval? Hedonism? Other?

2.If God was number one in your life, what would you have to change?

Prayer:

God, I do not want to miss out on the purpose for my existence. Help me to seek and reorient my life to what you desire. Help me to think in new ways according to your will. Amen.

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September 8, 2009

Intro:All Things Work for Good

Today, I am speechless (a miracle for preachers and appreciated by parishioners).

Why? I cannot get my mind around today’s reading even though I have read it a thousand times and thought about our passage at length numerous times before.

Words are insufficient to explain what Paul affirms to us.  Read it and then write me back with your thoughts. Together, we may better understand the following scripture.

Reading:  Romans 8:26-28

Brothers and sisters: We know that all things work for good for those who love God,

who are called according to his purpose.  For those he foreknew he also predestined

to be conformed to the image of his Son, so that he might be the firstborn

among many brothers. And those he predestined he also called; and those he called he also justified; and those he justified he also glorified.

Discuss:

1.Share your thoughts and impressions with me.

2.Has this passage spoken to you before? Be specific.

3.How have negative experiences/suffering/ benefited you in your faith journey?

4.Again, please write me at dtourangea@aol.com

Prayer:

Brothers and sisters, may we grow in our faith. May we find peace in God’s wonderful promises.  Amen.

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September 7, 2009

Intro:“Christ in You”

Do you remember the recent cultural mantra “you are what you eat?” While granola and raisins may be healthy for your body, I always wondered how I was like a raisin. Paul suggests in our reading today that God in us—specifically-Jesus in us is what we are. In essence the only thing that matters in life is if we have Christ in us. Do you know Jesus? Does he live in you?

Reading:  Colossians 1:24-2:3

Brothers and sisters: I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am filling up what is lacking in the afflictions of Christ on behalf of his Body, which is the Church, of which I am a minister in accordance with God’s stewardship given to me to bring to completion for you the word of God, the mystery hidden from ages and from generations past. But now it has been manifested to his holy ones, to whom God chose to make known the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; it is Christ in you, the hope for glory. It is he whom we proclaim, admonishing everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone perfect in Christ. For this I labor and struggle, in accord with the exercise of his power working within me. For I want you to know how great a struggle I am having for you and for those in Laodicea and all who have not seen me face to face, that their hearts may be encouraged as they are brought together in love, to have all the richness of assured understanding, for the knowledge of the mystery of God, Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.

Discuss:

1.Paul speaks about his suffering for his brothers and sisters. Why is he suffering?

2.What is the mystery Paul is “making known”

3.Do you have Godly wisdom? Where does one find it?

4.Do you encourage others in their faith walk with Jesus?

Prayer:

God, on this Labor Day, may I find in your all I need. I want to discover all the “hidden treasures” in Jesus. Help me too to encourage others. Amen.

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September 4, 2009

Intro:“A Mouthful”

Yesterday, I advised you to read the passage slowly—today I offer you the same counsel. The Apostle Paul has much to say and he crams a lot of information (theology) in six verses. Paul gives us a “whole mouthful” of wonderful news about who Jesus is. So, read each sentences and think about what it says and means to you. Enjoy your food!

Reading:  Colossians 1:15-20

Brothers and sisters: Christ Jesus is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For in him were created all things in heaven and on earth, the visible and the invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers; all things were created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. He is the head of the Body, the Church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things he himself might be preeminent. For in him all the fullness was pleased to dwell, and through him to reconcile all things for him, making peace by the Blood of his cross through him, whether those on earth or those in heaven.

Discuss:

1.How many attributes can you find about Jesus?

2.How does Jesus have preeminence?

3.Note the ways Jesus is equal with God. 

4.How did Jesus “re