Today's reading: Jeremiah 10, 11, 12; Psalm 14, 44, 74, 104, 134; Proverbs 14
** Editor's Note - today will be the last time I will add to this blog. You will find my new blog at http://pastorstable.wordpress.com please stop by and add your e-mail address to the subscription list on the front page. I hope to see you there. You can also follow my blog from Facebook if you are a friend of mine on that site. I hope to see you there.
Jeremiah 10:5, "They are upright as the palm tree, but speak not: they must needs be borne, because they cannot go. Be not afraid of them; for they cannot do evil, neither also is it in them to do good."
I was caught by the first part of our verse today, "...but speak not: they must needs be borne, because they cannot go. ..." This reminds me of two things.
One it reminds me of those of the Bible that could not walk themselves. These are the ones that Jesus ministered to. He went to the lame who could not walk, the dumb who could not speak, the deaf who could not hear. Jesus met the most needy at their point of need. How glorious was their healing and how compassionate of Christ to help the helpless.
This also reminds me of those who are not very spiritually mature. You all know the main thrust of this blog is to exhort my readers to grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ. I hope as you go through these daily posts that you are challenged in your walk with Christ. Most importantly, if you have never put your faith and trust in Jesus Christ for your eternal salvation I hope this blog will cause you to do that immediately because of the importance of being born-again.
When a child is born we give them milk to fill their bellies and satisfy them. As they grow we begin to put cereal in the milk to give them more substance and to keep them full longer. Then one day we try giving them a smashed up green bean or a smashed up pea and they may or may not like it. If the child does not take steps forward in their diet they will become anemic and will be susceptible to any and all diseases.
It is the same for God's children. If we do not start with the "milk" truths of the Word of God and then go on to the "meat" truths of God's Word then we will become spiritually anemic and we will be susceptible to the attacks of our enemy. So my exhortation to you today is: Grow up!
So, how are you doing?
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
July 13, 2010
Today's reading: Jeremiah 7, 8, 9; Psalm 13, 43, 73, 103, 133; Proverbs 13
Jeremiah 7:3,"Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, Amend your ways and your doings, and I will cause you to dwell in this place."
There was a time in my life that I was going down the wrong path. I remember leaving a Christian school and starting a public junior high school (now called middle school today). The transition was not an easy one for me at all. I was in shock I think. It has been so long ago that I don't remember exactly how I felt. I am glad of that too.
I, unfortunately, have a real love for knives and I collect them. I got caught with a pretty good sized knife in school. I remember going to the principal's office and he took it away from me. My mom had to come to school and pick me up. Then we both had to set in the principal's office and endure his scolding. He would not believe that I had no ill intentions for this knife. I had gotten it from a classmate the evening before and I took it to school to show a friend.
This was just another step in the downward spiral that took me places that I did not want to go. There was a day when I heeded the counsel of our verse for today. There was a day when I ended up drawing a line in the sand and saying, "Enough is enough." Unfortunately, I was pretty low by then. Oh, I was still saved; but, I was not acting like it very often.
I am thankful for the counsel of this verse to, "Amend your ways". I think we all need to stop and do some soul searching and see if maybe we need to "Amend your ways" or not. I have a sneaking suspicion that we might all need to go just a little different direction.
So, how are you doing?
Jeremiah 7:3,"Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, Amend your ways and your doings, and I will cause you to dwell in this place."
There was a time in my life that I was going down the wrong path. I remember leaving a Christian school and starting a public junior high school (now called middle school today). The transition was not an easy one for me at all. I was in shock I think. It has been so long ago that I don't remember exactly how I felt. I am glad of that too.
I, unfortunately, have a real love for knives and I collect them. I got caught with a pretty good sized knife in school. I remember going to the principal's office and he took it away from me. My mom had to come to school and pick me up. Then we both had to set in the principal's office and endure his scolding. He would not believe that I had no ill intentions for this knife. I had gotten it from a classmate the evening before and I took it to school to show a friend.
This was just another step in the downward spiral that took me places that I did not want to go. There was a day when I heeded the counsel of our verse for today. There was a day when I ended up drawing a line in the sand and saying, "Enough is enough." Unfortunately, I was pretty low by then. Oh, I was still saved; but, I was not acting like it very often.
I am thankful for the counsel of this verse to, "Amend your ways". I think we all need to stop and do some soul searching and see if maybe we need to "Amend your ways" or not. I have a sneaking suspicion that we might all need to go just a little different direction.
So, how are you doing?
Monday, July 12, 2010
July 12, 2010
Today's reading; Jeremiah 4, 5, 6; Psalm 12, 42, 72, 102, 132; Proverbs 2
Jeremiah 4:3, "For thus saith the LORD to the men of Judah and Jerusalem, Break up your fallow ground, and sow not among thorns."
This passage of Scripture has become one of my favorite over the years. Growing up on a farm this is what I call a farming passage. While I was involved in farming I never new there was a government program that pays a farmer not to work a portion of ground. It is called set aside ground. The ground is set aside for a season and not worked. This is what fallow ground is. This ground is plowed in the fall and left the following year and not worked. This gives the ground a season of rest if you will.
God is telling the Israelites that it is now time to "work the ground" if you will. They have had a season of laying dormant and it is now time to wake up and get busy.
It is the same in the lives of you and I. We get to a place where we do not serve God like we used to or we let the fire dim in our lives. Maybe we are like the ones in Psalm 12:1, "Help, LORD; for the godly man ceaseth; for the faithful fail from among the children of men." His command to you and I is "Break up your fallow ground".
How do we do this? Look at Jeremiah 6:16, "Thus saith the LORD, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein." We need to get back to the old paths. I do not mean that we must rid our lives of all modern conveniences or go back to a lifestyle of the 1800's.
We need to get back to a Bible Christianity if you will. We need a return to the Scriptures and obedience toward God like we never have before. We need to be sold out to Jesus Christ no matter what.
We need to get back to a thirst for God. Look at Psalm 42:1-2, "As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God. My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God: when shall I come and appear before God?" This is another favorite passage of mine. The deer in this passage has a thirst like a deer that is being pursued by the hunter and he would love to just stop for a moment and take a drink of the cool running brook; but, he must keep running for his life.
We have a choice to make. We can keep running from God or ignoring Him or we can run to Him with a thirst or desire for Him like the driving thirst of a deer that is fleeing the hunter. What I am saying is we have some work to do in our lives. We need to "Break up the fallow ground" and we need to be as the writer in Psalm 42 and live the reality that "so panteth my soul after thee, O God."
So, how are you doing?
Jeremiah 4:3, "For thus saith the LORD to the men of Judah and Jerusalem, Break up your fallow ground, and sow not among thorns."
This passage of Scripture has become one of my favorite over the years. Growing up on a farm this is what I call a farming passage. While I was involved in farming I never new there was a government program that pays a farmer not to work a portion of ground. It is called set aside ground. The ground is set aside for a season and not worked. This is what fallow ground is. This ground is plowed in the fall and left the following year and not worked. This gives the ground a season of rest if you will.
God is telling the Israelites that it is now time to "work the ground" if you will. They have had a season of laying dormant and it is now time to wake up and get busy.
It is the same in the lives of you and I. We get to a place where we do not serve God like we used to or we let the fire dim in our lives. Maybe we are like the ones in Psalm 12:1, "Help, LORD; for the godly man ceaseth; for the faithful fail from among the children of men." His command to you and I is "Break up your fallow ground".
How do we do this? Look at Jeremiah 6:16, "Thus saith the LORD, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein." We need to get back to the old paths. I do not mean that we must rid our lives of all modern conveniences or go back to a lifestyle of the 1800's.
We need to get back to a Bible Christianity if you will. We need a return to the Scriptures and obedience toward God like we never have before. We need to be sold out to Jesus Christ no matter what.
We need to get back to a thirst for God. Look at Psalm 42:1-2, "As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God. My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God: when shall I come and appear before God?" This is another favorite passage of mine. The deer in this passage has a thirst like a deer that is being pursued by the hunter and he would love to just stop for a moment and take a drink of the cool running brook; but, he must keep running for his life.
We have a choice to make. We can keep running from God or ignoring Him or we can run to Him with a thirst or desire for Him like the driving thirst of a deer that is fleeing the hunter. What I am saying is we have some work to do in our lives. We need to "Break up the fallow ground" and we need to be as the writer in Psalm 42 and live the reality that "so panteth my soul after thee, O God."
So, how are you doing?
Sunday, July 11, 2010
July 11, 2010
Today's reading: Jeremiah 1, 2, 3; Psalm 11, 41, 71, 101, 131; Proverbs 11
Jeremiah 1:5-6, "Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations. Then said I, Ah, Lord GOD! behold, I cannot speak: for I am a child."
As I was reading this I could not help but think of my own life. It could be overwhelming if you really think about what God is telling Jeremiah here in our Scripture passage for today.
We who know Christ as our Saviour know that He has a plan for our lives. This is plainly set forth in the Scriptures. Think about the words of our text for today. "Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; ..." I take great courage in knowing that the Creator of the universe knows me and even cares about me and for me. This is humbling if you really dwell on it.
I think God is also making a pro life statement here. He is telling Jeremiah that before the foundation of the world that God knew Jeremiah. The same is true for you and I. He knew us before anything was created. The awesome part of this is that He still chose to save us in spite of our selves.
Notice He says, "Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations." God has set us apart ("sanctified"). You and I have been set apart by God for something that He has brought about for us to glorify Him.
Never forget that God loves you supremely and He has a wonderful plan for your life if you will yield yourself to that plan.
Remember, God knows you.
Jeremiah 1:5-6, "Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations. Then said I, Ah, Lord GOD! behold, I cannot speak: for I am a child."
As I was reading this I could not help but think of my own life. It could be overwhelming if you really think about what God is telling Jeremiah here in our Scripture passage for today.
We who know Christ as our Saviour know that He has a plan for our lives. This is plainly set forth in the Scriptures. Think about the words of our text for today. "Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; ..." I take great courage in knowing that the Creator of the universe knows me and even cares about me and for me. This is humbling if you really dwell on it.
I think God is also making a pro life statement here. He is telling Jeremiah that before the foundation of the world that God knew Jeremiah. The same is true for you and I. He knew us before anything was created. The awesome part of this is that He still chose to save us in spite of our selves.
Notice He says, "Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations." God has set us apart ("sanctified"). You and I have been set apart by God for something that He has brought about for us to glorify Him.
Never forget that God loves you supremely and He has a wonderful plan for your life if you will yield yourself to that plan.
Remember, God knows you.
Saturday, July 10, 2010
July 10, 2010
Today's reading: Isaiah 64, 65, 66; Psalm 10, 40, 70, 100, 130; Proverbs 10
Isaiah 66:20, "And they shall bring all your brethren for an offering unto the LORD out of all nations upon horses, and in chariots, and in litters, and upon mules, and upon swift beasts, to my holy mountain Jerusalem, saith the LORD, as the children of Israel bring an offering in a clean vessel into the house of the LORD."
At this writing tomorrow will be Sunday; the first day of the week. This is a busy day for us these days. I am thankful to be a member of a great Church with a Pastor who preaches God's Word as it is to anyone as they are with the goal of each one of us becoming more like Christ.
Tomorrow; after only one practice, our choir "The Voices of Calvary" will stand and open the services with the song, "Nothing is Impossible". Standing before them with knees knocking back and forth will be me directing. We have only had one practice and they all sounded great. We performed our first opener last Sunday morning for the Fourth of July and it went very well. I was thrilled and so proud of them all.
There is one detail that I hope you and I do not pass over here. Tomorrow those of us who will attend worship services will hopefully enter the presence of God. What I mean is that God will come down and be present in our services. When this happens I want to be in a right relationship with Him.
When I was reading the words "clean vessel" I immediately thought of preparation for tomorrow. Far too many of us just get up, clean up and go on to Church. We take no thought to preparing our mind and soul as we have the body all cleaned up and looking "Churchy" if you will.
I hope as you attend worship services tomorrow you will be clean inside and out. It is my prayer that you and I will all be righteous (in a right relationship with God). Then when Christ makes His presence known we will enjoy that fellowship that we so desperately desire. Get your bath it is almost time for Church.
So how are you doing?
Isaiah 66:20, "And they shall bring all your brethren for an offering unto the LORD out of all nations upon horses, and in chariots, and in litters, and upon mules, and upon swift beasts, to my holy mountain Jerusalem, saith the LORD, as the children of Israel bring an offering in a clean vessel into the house of the LORD."
At this writing tomorrow will be Sunday; the first day of the week. This is a busy day for us these days. I am thankful to be a member of a great Church with a Pastor who preaches God's Word as it is to anyone as they are with the goal of each one of us becoming more like Christ.
Tomorrow; after only one practice, our choir "The Voices of Calvary" will stand and open the services with the song, "Nothing is Impossible". Standing before them with knees knocking back and forth will be me directing. We have only had one practice and they all sounded great. We performed our first opener last Sunday morning for the Fourth of July and it went very well. I was thrilled and so proud of them all.
There is one detail that I hope you and I do not pass over here. Tomorrow those of us who will attend worship services will hopefully enter the presence of God. What I mean is that God will come down and be present in our services. When this happens I want to be in a right relationship with Him.
When I was reading the words "clean vessel" I immediately thought of preparation for tomorrow. Far too many of us just get up, clean up and go on to Church. We take no thought to preparing our mind and soul as we have the body all cleaned up and looking "Churchy" if you will.
I hope as you attend worship services tomorrow you will be clean inside and out. It is my prayer that you and I will all be righteous (in a right relationship with God). Then when Christ makes His presence known we will enjoy that fellowship that we so desperately desire. Get your bath it is almost time for Church.
So how are you doing?
Friday, July 9, 2010
July 9, 2010
Today's reading: Isaiah 61, 62, 63; Psalm 9, 39, 69, 99, 129; Proverbs 9
Isaiah 62:4, "Thou shalt no more be termed Forsaken; neither shall thy land any more be termed Desolate: but thou shalt be called Hephzibah, and thy land Beulah: for the LORD delighteth in thee, and thy land shall be married."
Today's reading was an emotional trip for me. Many in my family love the song Squire Parsons wrote and sings, "Beulah Land". It was Grandma Ruth's favorite song. My wife sang that song to her so many times. Grandma Ruth is and has been experiencing "Beulah Land" first hand for several years now. This time of year always brings back fond memories of Grandpa and Grandma. Their wedding anniversary is July 31st. My cousin and his wife honored them greatly by getting married on July 31st.
You see my grandparents were outstanding Christian people. The loved God with all of their hearts and it showed. I never seen them argue. Once in a very great while you might hear them disagree. This amounted to, "Howard." "Ruth." "Howard." "Ruth." That was it.
Now they are experiencing "Beulah Land" like our Scripture for today. The word "Beulah" means to marry and it is referring to our relationship to Christ. We who know Christ as our Saviour are the bride of Christ. When we arrive home there will be a wedding ceremony like no other and we (the bride of Christ) will be married to the one we have loved for so long.
Heaven gets sweeter every day as I remember those who have gone on before me. I hope that one day you and I will meet in heaven.
Are you going to "Beulah Land"?
Isaiah 62:4, "Thou shalt no more be termed Forsaken; neither shall thy land any more be termed Desolate: but thou shalt be called Hephzibah, and thy land Beulah: for the LORD delighteth in thee, and thy land shall be married."
Today's reading was an emotional trip for me. Many in my family love the song Squire Parsons wrote and sings, "Beulah Land". It was Grandma Ruth's favorite song. My wife sang that song to her so many times. Grandma Ruth is and has been experiencing "Beulah Land" first hand for several years now. This time of year always brings back fond memories of Grandpa and Grandma. Their wedding anniversary is July 31st. My cousin and his wife honored them greatly by getting married on July 31st.
You see my grandparents were outstanding Christian people. The loved God with all of their hearts and it showed. I never seen them argue. Once in a very great while you might hear them disagree. This amounted to, "Howard." "Ruth." "Howard." "Ruth." That was it.
Now they are experiencing "Beulah Land" like our Scripture for today. The word "Beulah" means to marry and it is referring to our relationship to Christ. We who know Christ as our Saviour are the bride of Christ. When we arrive home there will be a wedding ceremony like no other and we (the bride of Christ) will be married to the one we have loved for so long.
Heaven gets sweeter every day as I remember those who have gone on before me. I hope that one day you and I will meet in heaven.
Are you going to "Beulah Land"?
Thursday, July 8, 2010
July 8, 2010
Today's reading: Isaiah 58, 59, 60; Psalm 8, 38, 68, 98, 128; Proverbs 8
Isaiah 60:19-20, "The sun shall be no more thy light by day; neither for brightness shall the moon give light unto thee: but the LORD shall be unto thee an everlasting light, and thy God thy glory. Thy sun shall no more go down; neither shall thy moon withdraw itself: for the LORD shall be thine everlasting light, and the days of thy mourning shall be ended."
There is one thing in life that I enjoy a lot. I enjoy going to lighthouses and photographing them. If you know me then you know that about me. I love to photograph them in the early morning or late in the evening.
I remember one time my cousin related to me how sometimes when you look at the horizon as the sun is setting it looks like it is going down into the water. If the water is choppy it looks like the sun is setting into the water and making it boil. This just fascinated me for a long time. Then one day I took a picture of the setting sun at Michigan City, IN at the lighthouse and there it appeared. It look like the sun was setting into Lake Michigan and the waters appeared to be boiling. I was so excited.
My point of rambling today? Light is an interesting study. I enjoy light. It warms you on a cold day. Light will guide you in the darkness. Try living in total darkness for a while and see if you don't have a real affinity for light.
There is coming a day when the sun and moon will pass away and be no longer needed because Jesus Christ will be the Light of heaven. I cannot imagine it; but, I am looking forward to it. Even so come Lord Jesus!
Are you ready?
Isaiah 60:19-20, "The sun shall be no more thy light by day; neither for brightness shall the moon give light unto thee: but the LORD shall be unto thee an everlasting light, and thy God thy glory. Thy sun shall no more go down; neither shall thy moon withdraw itself: for the LORD shall be thine everlasting light, and the days of thy mourning shall be ended."
There is one thing in life that I enjoy a lot. I enjoy going to lighthouses and photographing them. If you know me then you know that about me. I love to photograph them in the early morning or late in the evening.
I remember one time my cousin related to me how sometimes when you look at the horizon as the sun is setting it looks like it is going down into the water. If the water is choppy it looks like the sun is setting into the water and making it boil. This just fascinated me for a long time. Then one day I took a picture of the setting sun at Michigan City, IN at the lighthouse and there it appeared. It look like the sun was setting into Lake Michigan and the waters appeared to be boiling. I was so excited.
My point of rambling today? Light is an interesting study. I enjoy light. It warms you on a cold day. Light will guide you in the darkness. Try living in total darkness for a while and see if you don't have a real affinity for light.
There is coming a day when the sun and moon will pass away and be no longer needed because Jesus Christ will be the Light of heaven. I cannot imagine it; but, I am looking forward to it. Even so come Lord Jesus!
Are you ready?
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
July 7, 2010
EDITOR'S NOTE: I will be stopping this blog very soon. I have decided to go with another blog site as I believe it will be more simple for you; my readers. I will put another message at the top of my post when all things are finalized. I deeply apologize for any and all inconvenience this may cause you. Thank you all for your kind thoughts and comments concerning my blog. I look forward to connecting wit you at: http://pastorstable.wordpress.com/ .
May God bless you,
David
Today's reading: Isaiah 55, 56, 57; Psalm 7, 37, 67, 97, 127; Proverbs 7
Isaiah 55:6-7, "Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near: Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon."
I remember growing up on my uncle and aunt's farm so many great memories. I remember one day being outside with my aunt working in the flowers. They had some flowerbeds that were lined with rocks. Some were what I would call medium in size and one bed was lined with three rocks because they were so large. I remember we were working in a flowerbed on the west side of the house and my aunt smashed my finger between two of the rocks by accident. She moved the rock to get to a weed to pull out or something. She tells that I looked her straight in the eye and asked, "Why did you mash my finger?" She still nearly cries today retelling that story. I don't remember it that well.
You know I could have held that over her head all of my life. I could have kept her in bondage because of an accident. I chose to forgive her because she did not do it on purpose.
So many of us walk around in life carrying such an unforgiving spirit. Oh, don't think that I am high and mighty and talking down to you. This is one of those areas that I struggle with as well.
I am thankful that God is not that way. I was caught today by the phrase, "for he will abundantly pardon". I have met so many people that think they cannot be saved because they have done _____. This could not be farther from the truth. God is full of mercy and He is ready, willing and able to pardon. All we have to do is ask Him.
Do you need a little pardon today?
May God bless you,
David
Today's reading: Isaiah 55, 56, 57; Psalm 7, 37, 67, 97, 127; Proverbs 7
Isaiah 55:6-7, "Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near: Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon."
I remember growing up on my uncle and aunt's farm so many great memories. I remember one day being outside with my aunt working in the flowers. They had some flowerbeds that were lined with rocks. Some were what I would call medium in size and one bed was lined with three rocks because they were so large. I remember we were working in a flowerbed on the west side of the house and my aunt smashed my finger between two of the rocks by accident. She moved the rock to get to a weed to pull out or something. She tells that I looked her straight in the eye and asked, "Why did you mash my finger?" She still nearly cries today retelling that story. I don't remember it that well.
You know I could have held that over her head all of my life. I could have kept her in bondage because of an accident. I chose to forgive her because she did not do it on purpose.
So many of us walk around in life carrying such an unforgiving spirit. Oh, don't think that I am high and mighty and talking down to you. This is one of those areas that I struggle with as well.
I am thankful that God is not that way. I was caught today by the phrase, "for he will abundantly pardon". I have met so many people that think they cannot be saved because they have done _____. This could not be farther from the truth. God is full of mercy and He is ready, willing and able to pardon. All we have to do is ask Him.
Do you need a little pardon today?
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
July 6, 2010
Today's reading: Isaiah 52, 53, 54; Psalm 6, 36, 66, 96, 126; Proverbs 6
Isaiah 52:7, "How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth!"
I don't know about you; but, I am not a "feet" person. I don't really like them, if you know what I mean. My dear wife thinks she has cute feet. I just nod and smile. She knows how I feel. I even remind her from time to time.
I remember growing up in Church singing with the other children on Sunday morning, "Oh be careful little feet where you go. Oh be careful little feet where you go. For the Father up above is looking down in love. So be careful little feet where you go." I think we need to sing this song today. Nobody asks my opinion though.
Our feet can take us places that we should not go. For instance we should not go to bars or nightclubs. On the other hand our feet can take us where we should go like Church. They can take us to places we like to go such as the beach or a favorite eating establishment.
One thing is for sure. Our feet should take us where we can share the good news of Jesus Christ to people that need to hear it. We are like the "watchmen" of the next verse in Isaiah 52:8, "Thy watchmen shall lift up the voice; with the voice together shall they sing: for they shall see eye to eye, when the LORD shall bring again Zion." It seems to me that we speak with our feet. People see where our feet take us and that says a lot about us.
What are your feet saying?
Isaiah 52:7, "How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth!"
I don't know about you; but, I am not a "feet" person. I don't really like them, if you know what I mean. My dear wife thinks she has cute feet. I just nod and smile. She knows how I feel. I even remind her from time to time.
I remember growing up in Church singing with the other children on Sunday morning, "Oh be careful little feet where you go. Oh be careful little feet where you go. For the Father up above is looking down in love. So be careful little feet where you go." I think we need to sing this song today. Nobody asks my opinion though.
Our feet can take us places that we should not go. For instance we should not go to bars or nightclubs. On the other hand our feet can take us where we should go like Church. They can take us to places we like to go such as the beach or a favorite eating establishment.
One thing is for sure. Our feet should take us where we can share the good news of Jesus Christ to people that need to hear it. We are like the "watchmen" of the next verse in Isaiah 52:8, "Thy watchmen shall lift up the voice; with the voice together shall they sing: for they shall see eye to eye, when the LORD shall bring again Zion." It seems to me that we speak with our feet. People see where our feet take us and that says a lot about us.
What are your feet saying?
Monday, July 5, 2010
July 5, 2010
Today's reading: Isaiah 49, 50, 51; Psalm 5, 35, 65, 95, 125; Proverbs 5
Isaiah 49:16, "Behold, I have graven thee upon the palms of my hands; thy walls are continually before me."
A long time ago I did something that was not very smart. I know, which event are we speaking about? Out of spite I went and got a tattoo. I am not very proud of that fact now later in life. I wish I had never done that at all. I do not have the outrageous amount of money to have it removed either.
Over a somewhat lengthy career in law enforcement communications I have seen men and women that were tattooed everywhere. Sometimes people get them all over their body. I remember seeing a show on TV one time where a person was tattooed like a tiger complete with metal implants under the skin of their head to be small mock ears. Not me! How sad, really.
This is not what our verse for today is talking about. When I was reading this verse I immediately thought of the scars in Jesus' hands from the nails being driven into them to secure Him to the cross. I wonder when He sees the nail prints in His hands does He think of everyone He died for. I am thankful that He endured the pain beyond human belief or comprehension to die in my place so that I might have eternal life. As the songwriter penned, "Oh, What a Saviour!"
Today I must ask you to reflect and evaluate your life. Have you placed your faith and trust in Jesus Christ for eternal salvation? It is my desire that if you have not that you do it now.
So, how are you doing?
Isaiah 49:16, "Behold, I have graven thee upon the palms of my hands; thy walls are continually before me."
A long time ago I did something that was not very smart. I know, which event are we speaking about? Out of spite I went and got a tattoo. I am not very proud of that fact now later in life. I wish I had never done that at all. I do not have the outrageous amount of money to have it removed either.
Over a somewhat lengthy career in law enforcement communications I have seen men and women that were tattooed everywhere. Sometimes people get them all over their body. I remember seeing a show on TV one time where a person was tattooed like a tiger complete with metal implants under the skin of their head to be small mock ears. Not me! How sad, really.
This is not what our verse for today is talking about. When I was reading this verse I immediately thought of the scars in Jesus' hands from the nails being driven into them to secure Him to the cross. I wonder when He sees the nail prints in His hands does He think of everyone He died for. I am thankful that He endured the pain beyond human belief or comprehension to die in my place so that I might have eternal life. As the songwriter penned, "Oh, What a Saviour!"
Today I must ask you to reflect and evaluate your life. Have you placed your faith and trust in Jesus Christ for eternal salvation? It is my desire that if you have not that you do it now.
So, how are you doing?
Sunday, July 4, 2010
July 4, 2010
Today's reading: Isaiah 46, 47, 48; Psalm 4, 34, 64, 94, 124; Proverbs 4
Proverbs 4:14-15, "Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil men. Avoid it, pass not by it, turn from it, and pass away."
I remember growing up I always wanted to be like the other kids. I wanted my hair to be long like the others. I wanted to wear the same clothes as the other kids. The funny thing is that I was always the fat kid with glasses and they did not make those kind of clothes for fat kids. My hair is so naturally curly that it will not grow out long and straight. God does have a sense of humor.
Now that I am older I do my best to heed the counsel of king Solomon. I do my best not to walk in the same path as evil men or to go in their way. I do all I can to avoid it. I have matured to the place that I know that their way is not the best way and it is surely not God's way.
I remember going to do the laundry growing up. My aunt and uncle would drive to another town and sometimes we would go out to eat prior to doing the laundry. This time was so boring for me some times. I remember one time I tried to climb a large hill behind the building. I could not make it to the top. It took me two years before I was strong enough to climb all the way to the top. When I reached the top I was so disappointed. There were only houses at the top of the hill. There was nothing for a boy to mess with or play with.
Take time and evaluate the path you are on today. What is at the end of your path? I hope it is the blessings of God for a life well lived. If not maybe you should change paths now before it is eternally too late?
How are you doing?
Proverbs 4:14-15, "Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil men. Avoid it, pass not by it, turn from it, and pass away."
I remember growing up I always wanted to be like the other kids. I wanted my hair to be long like the others. I wanted to wear the same clothes as the other kids. The funny thing is that I was always the fat kid with glasses and they did not make those kind of clothes for fat kids. My hair is so naturally curly that it will not grow out long and straight. God does have a sense of humor.
Now that I am older I do my best to heed the counsel of king Solomon. I do my best not to walk in the same path as evil men or to go in their way. I do all I can to avoid it. I have matured to the place that I know that their way is not the best way and it is surely not God's way.
I remember going to do the laundry growing up. My aunt and uncle would drive to another town and sometimes we would go out to eat prior to doing the laundry. This time was so boring for me some times. I remember one time I tried to climb a large hill behind the building. I could not make it to the top. It took me two years before I was strong enough to climb all the way to the top. When I reached the top I was so disappointed. There were only houses at the top of the hill. There was nothing for a boy to mess with or play with.
Take time and evaluate the path you are on today. What is at the end of your path? I hope it is the blessings of God for a life well lived. If not maybe you should change paths now before it is eternally too late?
How are you doing?
Saturday, July 3, 2010
July 3, 2010
Today's reading: Isaiah 43, 44, 45; Psalm 3, 33, 63, 93, 123; Proverbs 3
Isaiah 44:2-3, "Thus saith the LORD that made thee, and formed thee from the womb, which will help thee; Fear not, O Jacob, my servant; and thou, Jesurun, whom I have chosen. For I will pour water upon him that is thirsty, and floods upon the dry ground: I will pour my spirit upon thy seed, and my blessing upon thine offspring:"
I remember growing up on the farm so many things that stand out to me. I remember one year my uncle allowed me to receive the profit from one small field instead of being paid. I think he probably calculated what he had paid me in past years and figured this particular field would pay me nearly what I had been making with the possibility of having a great year and really making a good profit.
I remember how dry the field would get in the hot summer. Sometimes it would dry up and crack so badly that it looked like something from television. Unfortunately, I do not remember how I made out getting paid that year. I do know that I made a profit and not a loss. Praise God! That was a lot of money for a young boy. I remember a bumper sticker my uncle had on an old refrigerator that said, "If gambling is illegal then what about farming".
I remember how when the rains would come that ground would soak it up and look like good Indiana dirt again.
People are much like that old Indiana dirt. Not only were we formed from the dust of the ground (Genesis 2:7); but, we also get dried out from time to time. I don't mean we need to be baptized again and again. Some "religions" will tell you that. What I mean is that we get spiritually dry if we do not drink from the "water of the word" (Ephesians 5:26).
I remember my wife used to sing with two (2) of her friends at another Church we attended. They sang, "drinking from the springs of living water..." That song still sets me off on a Baptist fit.
Are you feeling spiritually dry today? Run to Jesus and drink from His springs of living water and you will never thirst again (John 4:14).
Isaiah 44:2-3, "Thus saith the LORD that made thee, and formed thee from the womb, which will help thee; Fear not, O Jacob, my servant; and thou, Jesurun, whom I have chosen. For I will pour water upon him that is thirsty, and floods upon the dry ground: I will pour my spirit upon thy seed, and my blessing upon thine offspring:"
I remember growing up on the farm so many things that stand out to me. I remember one year my uncle allowed me to receive the profit from one small field instead of being paid. I think he probably calculated what he had paid me in past years and figured this particular field would pay me nearly what I had been making with the possibility of having a great year and really making a good profit.
I remember how dry the field would get in the hot summer. Sometimes it would dry up and crack so badly that it looked like something from television. Unfortunately, I do not remember how I made out getting paid that year. I do know that I made a profit and not a loss. Praise God! That was a lot of money for a young boy. I remember a bumper sticker my uncle had on an old refrigerator that said, "If gambling is illegal then what about farming".
I remember how when the rains would come that ground would soak it up and look like good Indiana dirt again.
People are much like that old Indiana dirt. Not only were we formed from the dust of the ground (Genesis 2:7); but, we also get dried out from time to time. I don't mean we need to be baptized again and again. Some "religions" will tell you that. What I mean is that we get spiritually dry if we do not drink from the "water of the word" (Ephesians 5:26).
I remember my wife used to sing with two (2) of her friends at another Church we attended. They sang, "drinking from the springs of living water..." That song still sets me off on a Baptist fit.
Are you feeling spiritually dry today? Run to Jesus and drink from His springs of living water and you will never thirst again (John 4:14).
Friday, July 2, 2010
July 2, 2010
Today's reading: Isaiah 40, 41, 42; Psalm 2, 32, 62, 92, 122; Proverbs 2
Isaiah 40:28-31, "Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? there is no searching of his understanding. He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall: But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint."
I remember a time in my life where I nearly died from a bleeding ulcer. I passed out from blood loss. I ignored it for (14) fourteen years. I would not recommend this. By the time I ended up in the emergency room I had lost over half my blood through a hole in my stomach. I still remember most of the details. My memory is getting progressively worse as I get older and I wonder if some of it is due to loosing all of that blood over the course of all those years.
I remember being so weak that I could not hardly get into the bed in the emergency room. When I did I started to pass out again and the nurse lovingly shoved smelling salts up my nose (she was a bit over zealous).
It took me an entire year; but, I finally built my blood back up without the aid of any transfusions. My doctor and I argued over that one for a while; but, I finally prevailed. I was so weak that at times I could hardly move. God was absolutely faithful to my family and I during this time as always.
When I think back to those days I am reminded of the words of Isaiah 41:10, "Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness." Praise God!
I hope you are trusting in Jesus Christ today. If not there is no time like right now.
Isaiah 40:28-31, "Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? there is no searching of his understanding. He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall: But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint."
I remember a time in my life where I nearly died from a bleeding ulcer. I passed out from blood loss. I ignored it for (14) fourteen years. I would not recommend this. By the time I ended up in the emergency room I had lost over half my blood through a hole in my stomach. I still remember most of the details. My memory is getting progressively worse as I get older and I wonder if some of it is due to loosing all of that blood over the course of all those years.
I remember being so weak that I could not hardly get into the bed in the emergency room. When I did I started to pass out again and the nurse lovingly shoved smelling salts up my nose (she was a bit over zealous).
It took me an entire year; but, I finally built my blood back up without the aid of any transfusions. My doctor and I argued over that one for a while; but, I finally prevailed. I was so weak that at times I could hardly move. God was absolutely faithful to my family and I during this time as always.
When I think back to those days I am reminded of the words of Isaiah 41:10, "Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness." Praise God!
I hope you are trusting in Jesus Christ today. If not there is no time like right now.
Thursday, July 1, 2010
July 1, 2010
Today's reading: Isaiah 37, 38, 39; Psalm 1, 31, 61, 91, 121; Proverbs 1
Isaiah 37:1, "And it came to pass, when king Hezekiah heard it, that he rent his clothes, and covered himself with sackcloth, and went into the house of the LORD."
Isaiah 38:1-2, "In those days was Hezekiah sick unto death. And Isaiah the prophet the son of Amoz came unto him, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Set thine house in order: for thou shalt die, and not live. Then Hezekiah turned his face toward the wall, and prayed unto the LORD,"
We live in a dark day it is obvious. We do not have to be overwhelmed by trials and troubles. It has been nearly eleven (11) months since I have worked. So far we are only behind on our mortgage. I am hoping for some governmental cure-all to help with that.
I have watched people over the years that have been delivered bad news of all sorts. I have even been the one that has delivered that bad news. I don't like to do that. The reactions have been as numerous as the people. We all react differently to different situations. Think how boring life would be if we all acted the same way and liked the same stuff, etc... Plain vanilla life. How boring.
How would you react if the doctor said, "___________, you only have two (2) weeks to live." I don't want to know how I would react. We need to react like King Hezekiah. Grant it his life after God granted him 15 years was worse than it was prior to this event. He should have accepted it and not asked for more.
We need to react to things like King Hezekiah. We need to go immediately to the Father in prayer and seek His guidance and wisdom. Far too often we just go on like we can handle it; but, we can't. We must run to the Lord!
Isaiah 37:1, "And it came to pass, when king Hezekiah heard it, that he rent his clothes, and covered himself with sackcloth, and went into the house of the LORD."
Isaiah 38:1-2, "In those days was Hezekiah sick unto death. And Isaiah the prophet the son of Amoz came unto him, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Set thine house in order: for thou shalt die, and not live. Then Hezekiah turned his face toward the wall, and prayed unto the LORD,"
We live in a dark day it is obvious. We do not have to be overwhelmed by trials and troubles. It has been nearly eleven (11) months since I have worked. So far we are only behind on our mortgage. I am hoping for some governmental cure-all to help with that.
I have watched people over the years that have been delivered bad news of all sorts. I have even been the one that has delivered that bad news. I don't like to do that. The reactions have been as numerous as the people. We all react differently to different situations. Think how boring life would be if we all acted the same way and liked the same stuff, etc... Plain vanilla life. How boring.
How would you react if the doctor said, "___________, you only have two (2) weeks to live." I don't want to know how I would react. We need to react like King Hezekiah. Grant it his life after God granted him 15 years was worse than it was prior to this event. He should have accepted it and not asked for more.
We need to react to things like King Hezekiah. We need to go immediately to the Father in prayer and seek His guidance and wisdom. Far too often we just go on like we can handle it; but, we can't. We must run to the Lord!
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
June 30, 2010
Today's reading: Isaiah 34, 35, 36; Psalm 30, 60, 90, 120, 150; Proverbs 30
Isaiah 35:1, "The wilderness and the solitary place shall be glad for them; and the desert shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose."
As I get older and older I begin to think more and more about Heaven. I think a lot about my family members that have gone on before me. I wonder who made it and who did not even. I trust God to know and that is good enough for me.
Some times in my life it seems so dry. Have you ever had such an experience? You just feel all dried up inside and God seems so distant. I have had these experiences in my life. The good thing is that they do not last forever and ever.
When I feel like this I go to the Lord and receive encouragement. God knows exactly what we need. Sometimes He even allows us to have that dry feeling so to speak to draw us to Himself.
Let me challenge you to run to the Lord Jesus Christ if there is something in your life that seems to not be just right. He can make it right or He will show you how to make it right. He is an awesome God!
Let me encourage you to run to the Lord today. Do you have your track shoes on? I hope so.
Isaiah 35:1, "The wilderness and the solitary place shall be glad for them; and the desert shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose."
As I get older and older I begin to think more and more about Heaven. I think a lot about my family members that have gone on before me. I wonder who made it and who did not even. I trust God to know and that is good enough for me.
Some times in my life it seems so dry. Have you ever had such an experience? You just feel all dried up inside and God seems so distant. I have had these experiences in my life. The good thing is that they do not last forever and ever.
When I feel like this I go to the Lord and receive encouragement. God knows exactly what we need. Sometimes He even allows us to have that dry feeling so to speak to draw us to Himself.
Let me challenge you to run to the Lord Jesus Christ if there is something in your life that seems to not be just right. He can make it right or He will show you how to make it right. He is an awesome God!
Let me encourage you to run to the Lord today. Do you have your track shoes on? I hope so.
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
June 29, 2010
Today's reading: Isaiah 31, 32, 33; Psalm 29, 59, 89, 149; Proverbs 29
Isaiah 32:2, "And a man shall be as an hiding place from the wind, and a covert from the tempest; as rivers of water in a dry place, as the shadow of a great rock in a weary land."
This verse reminds me of the account of Moses when he was instructed by God to speak to the rock and water was to come out of it. Instead, Moses was angry with the people and he smote the rock with his rod and that was disobedience. For this he could not enter the promised land.
The rock is a type of Christ. He only is our Rock or He should be. You and I should take great comfort knowing that we have a God who is known as the "Rock" that we can run to for safety and stability.
There have been many times in my life that I needed that and the only place I could find it was in God my Rock.
Do you find yourself running to the Rock for your needs or do you find yourself trying to be a rock and just fake it until you make it? The choice is yours to make.
Isaiah 32:2, "And a man shall be as an hiding place from the wind, and a covert from the tempest; as rivers of water in a dry place, as the shadow of a great rock in a weary land."
This verse reminds me of the account of Moses when he was instructed by God to speak to the rock and water was to come out of it. Instead, Moses was angry with the people and he smote the rock with his rod and that was disobedience. For this he could not enter the promised land.
The rock is a type of Christ. He only is our Rock or He should be. You and I should take great comfort knowing that we have a God who is known as the "Rock" that we can run to for safety and stability.
There have been many times in my life that I needed that and the only place I could find it was in God my Rock.
Do you find yourself running to the Rock for your needs or do you find yourself trying to be a rock and just fake it until you make it? The choice is yours to make.
Monday, June 28, 2010
June 28, 2010
Today's reading: Isaiah 28, 29, 30; Psalm 28, 58, 88, 118, 148; Proverbs 28
Isaiah 30:21, "And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left."
I remember a number of years ago while dispatching I took a 911 call from a worried husband. His wife; who suffered with Alzheimer's had walked away from their home and he could not locate her. It was a very sad situation.
I remember the whole incident very well. I remember that we called for a search and rescue task force from Indianapolis to assist in looking for this lady. There was much concern for her as the temperatures were very low and you could see your breath.
They brought in a team of bloodhounds to track her. They started at her home and began searching. One of the dogs took his handler from the front door of the home to the neighbor's back door. The K9 handler pulled the dog off and went back and started over. This happened a total of three (3) times.
The neighbors were on vacation and would be out of town for quite some time so the house was locked up tight and nobody was home.
Several hours into the search the husband called 911 again to say that he had found his wife. She was fast asleep in the neighbor's bed. It was somewhat like the story of "Goldie Locks". We were all greatly relieved to know that this dear lady was safe. The husband was looking after the neighbor's home while they were away and he had not locked the door behind him earlier that day as he made his rounds checking the property.
I thought about this incident after reading our text for today. I thought how the search would have been over nearly before it had started if the K9 handler had listened to his K9 partner.
It is the same way with you and I. God speaks in His still small voice and we ignore Him and go and do things our own way. This ought not to be.
Listen closely. Is He talking to you?
Isaiah 30:21, "And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left."
I remember a number of years ago while dispatching I took a 911 call from a worried husband. His wife; who suffered with Alzheimer's had walked away from their home and he could not locate her. It was a very sad situation.
I remember the whole incident very well. I remember that we called for a search and rescue task force from Indianapolis to assist in looking for this lady. There was much concern for her as the temperatures were very low and you could see your breath.
They brought in a team of bloodhounds to track her. They started at her home and began searching. One of the dogs took his handler from the front door of the home to the neighbor's back door. The K9 handler pulled the dog off and went back and started over. This happened a total of three (3) times.
The neighbors were on vacation and would be out of town for quite some time so the house was locked up tight and nobody was home.
Several hours into the search the husband called 911 again to say that he had found his wife. She was fast asleep in the neighbor's bed. It was somewhat like the story of "Goldie Locks". We were all greatly relieved to know that this dear lady was safe. The husband was looking after the neighbor's home while they were away and he had not locked the door behind him earlier that day as he made his rounds checking the property.
I thought about this incident after reading our text for today. I thought how the search would have been over nearly before it had started if the K9 handler had listened to his K9 partner.
It is the same way with you and I. God speaks in His still small voice and we ignore Him and go and do things our own way. This ought not to be.
Listen closely. Is He talking to you?
Saturday, June 19, 2010
June 19, 2010
Today's reading: Isaiah 1, 2, 3; Psalm 19, 49, 79, 109, 139; Proverbs 19
Isaiah 1:13, "Bring no more vain oblations; incense is an abomination unto me; the new moons and sabbaths, the calling of assemblies, I cannot away with; it is iniquity, even the solemn meeting."
Sometimes as I sit I contemplate on things of the past. The other day I was thinking about my days growing up in Church. I remembered the building that no longer stands where I made my profession of faith public. I thought how sad it was that it was now gone.
I remembered some wonderful services in that building. I remember people being baptized after trusting Christ as their Saviour. I remember Pastor Sherman Essex singing with Marianne Ottinger. I can still see them standing behind the wooden pulpit and singing with all of their hearts. It brings me to tears just remembering it.
I remember sitting in some Regular Baptist Association meetings where preaching was hot and hard; but, the time went by so quickly as you listened intently. One time I remember Dr. E. Wayne Thompson leading us in the song "Amazing Grace" and he lined the song for us as they did in the old days. Precious memories!
My trip down memory lane today? I was thinking about the sad state of affairs the Church has come to and it makes me deeply sad. Christians wake up! Get back into your Bible and obey it. Pray like everything depends upon God. Work like everything depends upon you for the night cometh when man can work no more.
How are you doing?
Isaiah 1:13, "Bring no more vain oblations; incense is an abomination unto me; the new moons and sabbaths, the calling of assemblies, I cannot away with; it is iniquity, even the solemn meeting."
Sometimes as I sit I contemplate on things of the past. The other day I was thinking about my days growing up in Church. I remembered the building that no longer stands where I made my profession of faith public. I thought how sad it was that it was now gone.
I remembered some wonderful services in that building. I remember people being baptized after trusting Christ as their Saviour. I remember Pastor Sherman Essex singing with Marianne Ottinger. I can still see them standing behind the wooden pulpit and singing with all of their hearts. It brings me to tears just remembering it.
I remember sitting in some Regular Baptist Association meetings where preaching was hot and hard; but, the time went by so quickly as you listened intently. One time I remember Dr. E. Wayne Thompson leading us in the song "Amazing Grace" and he lined the song for us as they did in the old days. Precious memories!
My trip down memory lane today? I was thinking about the sad state of affairs the Church has come to and it makes me deeply sad. Christians wake up! Get back into your Bible and obey it. Pray like everything depends upon God. Work like everything depends upon you for the night cometh when man can work no more.
How are you doing?
Friday, June 18, 2010
June 18, 2010
Today's reading: Song of Solomon 6, 7, 8; Psalm 18, 48, 78, 108, 138; Proverbs 18
Psalm 18:30, "As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the LORD is tried: he is a buckler to all those that trust in him."
I remember some years ago at a Church we were attending we started a men's group. It was a group that would meet once a month and have some kind of cookout or go out to eat. The whole idea was so that men would meet together and learn from one another and hold one another accountable. The large group was broken up into smaller groups that would meet together once a week. In these smaller groups we would talk about things to keep us on track spiritually. I enjoyed this so much. I remember when I was asked to lead a small group I was so excited that I could hardly contain myself.
The reason for this little trip down memory lane? The above verse of Scripture was one of the memory verses that the small group learned. It has stuck with me for all these years and it still as applicable today as it was then.
So many of us question God about our situations or whatever it may be. The verse tells us that, "As for God, his way is perfect:" Just the first phrase of the verse provides us so much comfort. We need to yield ourselves to the will of God and see that His way is perfect and we need to trust and follow Him no matter what. Easily said, I know. Not so easily done. I know even more so.
So how are you doing?
Psalm 18:30, "As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the LORD is tried: he is a buckler to all those that trust in him."
I remember some years ago at a Church we were attending we started a men's group. It was a group that would meet once a month and have some kind of cookout or go out to eat. The whole idea was so that men would meet together and learn from one another and hold one another accountable. The large group was broken up into smaller groups that would meet together once a week. In these smaller groups we would talk about things to keep us on track spiritually. I enjoyed this so much. I remember when I was asked to lead a small group I was so excited that I could hardly contain myself.
The reason for this little trip down memory lane? The above verse of Scripture was one of the memory verses that the small group learned. It has stuck with me for all these years and it still as applicable today as it was then.
So many of us question God about our situations or whatever it may be. The verse tells us that, "As for God, his way is perfect:" Just the first phrase of the verse provides us so much comfort. We need to yield ourselves to the will of God and see that His way is perfect and we need to trust and follow Him no matter what. Easily said, I know. Not so easily done. I know even more so.
So how are you doing?
Thursday, June 17, 2010
June 17, 2010
Today's reading: Song of Solomon 3, 4, 5; Psalm 17, 47, 77, 107, 137; Proverbs 17
Song of Solomon 3:3, "The watchmen that go about the city found me: to whom I said, Saw ye him whom my soul loveth?"
I took my family to the beach in Michigan City, IN for the day. It was so nice. The sun was shining bright and the sky was a beautiful blue. There were not a lot of people on the beach. I talked with a man who was fishing and having good success. He had one that was about three (3) feet long. I was deeply jealous.
As we relaxed at the beach I noticed all kinds of people there. There were people that were practically naked and then there was me laying on a blanket in blue jeans and a short sleeved shirt with a t-shirt underneath it. My wife made fun of me for being the most "over dressed" person at the beach. Such is life.
I thought about this passage of Scripture in light of our visit to the beach. There were lifeguard there and they were keeping watch. The Department of Natural Resources was there keeping watch. I don't know if there was a "spiritual" watchman there or not. I was there and I should have been attempting to share the Gospel with those that I could. Unfortunately, I just laid there on my blanket content to pray. Prayer is fantastic and we should engage in it; but, we need to tell others about Christ and His love for them too. Who have you told lately? Watchman are you at your post?
Song of Solomon 3:3, "The watchmen that go about the city found me: to whom I said, Saw ye him whom my soul loveth?"
I took my family to the beach in Michigan City, IN for the day. It was so nice. The sun was shining bright and the sky was a beautiful blue. There were not a lot of people on the beach. I talked with a man who was fishing and having good success. He had one that was about three (3) feet long. I was deeply jealous.
As we relaxed at the beach I noticed all kinds of people there. There were people that were practically naked and then there was me laying on a blanket in blue jeans and a short sleeved shirt with a t-shirt underneath it. My wife made fun of me for being the most "over dressed" person at the beach. Such is life.
I thought about this passage of Scripture in light of our visit to the beach. There were lifeguard there and they were keeping watch. The Department of Natural Resources was there keeping watch. I don't know if there was a "spiritual" watchman there or not. I was there and I should have been attempting to share the Gospel with those that I could. Unfortunately, I just laid there on my blanket content to pray. Prayer is fantastic and we should engage in it; but, we need to tell others about Christ and His love for them too. Who have you told lately? Watchman are you at your post?
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
June 16, 2010
Today's reading: Ecclesiastes 12; Song of Solomon 1, 2; Psalm 16, 46, 76, 106, 136; Proverbs 16
Ecclesiastes 12:13-14, "Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil."
So many people today are wondering why are they here on earth. The answer is simple really. We have been placed here by God to bring Him pleasure, honor and glory. Simply stated; but, not so easily done.
So while we are here on earth there are some things we need to be doing also. So many people wander aimlessly around from one job to another or so on. This ought not to be. God has a plan for our lives and we need to avail ourselves to it.
Many things can get into our way. We need to heed the counsel of Song of Solomon 2:15, "Take us the foxes, the little foxes, that spoil the vines: for our vines have tender grapes." We need to stay focused and keep on track. If not we will not be as effective as we could be or once were.
So, how are you doing?
Ecclesiastes 12:13-14, "Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil."
So many people today are wondering why are they here on earth. The answer is simple really. We have been placed here by God to bring Him pleasure, honor and glory. Simply stated; but, not so easily done.
So while we are here on earth there are some things we need to be doing also. So many people wander aimlessly around from one job to another or so on. This ought not to be. God has a plan for our lives and we need to avail ourselves to it.
Many things can get into our way. We need to heed the counsel of Song of Solomon 2:15, "Take us the foxes, the little foxes, that spoil the vines: for our vines have tender grapes." We need to stay focused and keep on track. If not we will not be as effective as we could be or once were.
So, how are you doing?
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
June 15, 2010
Today's reading: Ecclesiastes 9, 10, 11; Psalm 15, 45, 75, 105, 135; Proverbs 15
Ecclesiastes 9:10, "Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest."
Having been out of work for just over 10 not-so-glorious months now, I have a new appreciation for having and holding a job. I remember a day as a young man saying that I would not work "fast food". This is a misnomer in and of itself. I am thankful for a local Pastor who called me to come and clean the gym of their Church. The money sure helped. Oh, it did not pay the back mortgage or big bills like that; but, it helped tremendously with the day to day necessities.
As I was cleaning the carpets there were places in the carpet where the children had spilled during lunch or snack times. I sprayed them with the spot cleaner and I even pulled the machine ever so slowly over those spots. The result? Dirty spots that were wet. I felt like the example of Ecclesiastes 10:10, "If the iron be blunt, and he do not whet the edge, then must he put to more strength: but wisdom is profitable to direct." The problem is that the stains have probably been there too long and are set into the carpet.
I did not quit though. I sure wanted to give up. I am a perfectionist and things like that do not set well with me. I did not give up though. I kept going and finished my task no matter how good or bad the carpet looked when I was finished. I did my best and the Pastor knows that. He was happy with it. I accepted it.
I thank God for providing this bit of hard work. I was exhausted when I arrived home that evening; but, it was that hard day of working tired. I hope this finds you doing those things that God has entrusted to you to get done.
So, how are you doing?
Ecclesiastes 9:10, "Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest."
Having been out of work for just over 10 not-so-glorious months now, I have a new appreciation for having and holding a job. I remember a day as a young man saying that I would not work "fast food". This is a misnomer in and of itself. I am thankful for a local Pastor who called me to come and clean the gym of their Church. The money sure helped. Oh, it did not pay the back mortgage or big bills like that; but, it helped tremendously with the day to day necessities.
As I was cleaning the carpets there were places in the carpet where the children had spilled during lunch or snack times. I sprayed them with the spot cleaner and I even pulled the machine ever so slowly over those spots. The result? Dirty spots that were wet. I felt like the example of Ecclesiastes 10:10, "If the iron be blunt, and he do not whet the edge, then must he put to more strength: but wisdom is profitable to direct." The problem is that the stains have probably been there too long and are set into the carpet.
I did not quit though. I sure wanted to give up. I am a perfectionist and things like that do not set well with me. I did not give up though. I kept going and finished my task no matter how good or bad the carpet looked when I was finished. I did my best and the Pastor knows that. He was happy with it. I accepted it.
I thank God for providing this bit of hard work. I was exhausted when I arrived home that evening; but, it was that hard day of working tired. I hope this finds you doing those things that God has entrusted to you to get done.
So, how are you doing?
Monday, June 14, 2010
June 14, 2010
Today's reading: Ecclesiastes 6, 7, 8; Psalm 14, 44, 74, 104, 134; Proverbs 14
Ecclesiastes 6:2, "A man to whom God hath given riches, wealth, and honour, so that he wanteth nothing for his soul of all that he desireth, yet God giveth him not power to eat thereof, but a stranger eateth it: this is vanity, and it is an evil disease."
I remember a time at a Church we attended for a few years we were wanting to build on to the building. A wealthy man called the Pastor of the Church and invited him to breakfast. At this breakfast meeting the man asked the Pastor what the balance was on the current mortgage of the Church building. The Pastor gave him a "ballpark" figure. The man pulled out a checkbook and began to write a check for the balance. The Pastor took the check and went back to the Church to find that he has overestimated a little. He called this man and told him and the Pastor was told to keep the extra. Praise God!
This man knew how to use what God had given him to meet the needs of the people. I have never been one to have much money or anything else for that matter. I have come to the conclusion that God knows that He cannot entrust much to me so He does just that. That is okay. Right now things are so slim that I wonder if He can trust me with anything at all.
Do you see money as a spiritual matter? I hope so; because, it is. If you are going to live your life successfully as one of God's children you will have to look at money this way.
Do you have riches or do riches have you? Think about it for a minute before you answer that.
Ecclesiastes 6:2, "A man to whom God hath given riches, wealth, and honour, so that he wanteth nothing for his soul of all that he desireth, yet God giveth him not power to eat thereof, but a stranger eateth it: this is vanity, and it is an evil disease."
I remember a time at a Church we attended for a few years we were wanting to build on to the building. A wealthy man called the Pastor of the Church and invited him to breakfast. At this breakfast meeting the man asked the Pastor what the balance was on the current mortgage of the Church building. The Pastor gave him a "ballpark" figure. The man pulled out a checkbook and began to write a check for the balance. The Pastor took the check and went back to the Church to find that he has overestimated a little. He called this man and told him and the Pastor was told to keep the extra. Praise God!
This man knew how to use what God had given him to meet the needs of the people. I have never been one to have much money or anything else for that matter. I have come to the conclusion that God knows that He cannot entrust much to me so He does just that. That is okay. Right now things are so slim that I wonder if He can trust me with anything at all.
Do you see money as a spiritual matter? I hope so; because, it is. If you are going to live your life successfully as one of God's children you will have to look at money this way.
Do you have riches or do riches have you? Think about it for a minute before you answer that.
Sunday, June 13, 2010
June 13, 2010
Today's reading: Ecclesiastes 3, 4, 5; Psalm 13, 43, 73, 103, 133; Proverbs 13
Ecclesiastes 5:2, "Be not rash with thy mouth, and let not thine heart be hasty to utter any thing before God: for God is in heaven, and thou upon earth: therefore let thy words be few."
Ecclesiastes 5:4-5, "When thou vowest a vow unto God, defer not to pay it; for he hath no pleasure in fools: pay that which thou hast vowed. Better is it that thou shouldest not vow, than that thou shouldest vow and not pay."
So many of us are so quick to say things that we regret. I know that I have a lot in my time walking this earth. I remember growing up it was my mouth that got me into more trouble than anything and sometimes it still does.
We live in a day that a person's word is not worth the breath that it takes to expel it. This is sad. I remember a day when I could go to the local store and get something and they would put it on a tab and it had to be paid weekly. If you did not pay your tab you lost the privilege.
I wish I was known as a man of my word. I don't think I am; but, I could be wrong. This should not be. My life is a reflection of Christ and He is a man of His Word. You will see this as you read His Word. If He says it you can mark it down that it is or will be.
So what about you? Are you considered a man or woman of your word? I sure hope so. If not it is never too late to begin to work on becoming a man or woman of your word.
Ecclesiastes 5:2, "Be not rash with thy mouth, and let not thine heart be hasty to utter any thing before God: for God is in heaven, and thou upon earth: therefore let thy words be few."
Ecclesiastes 5:4-5, "When thou vowest a vow unto God, defer not to pay it; for he hath no pleasure in fools: pay that which thou hast vowed. Better is it that thou shouldest not vow, than that thou shouldest vow and not pay."
So many of us are so quick to say things that we regret. I know that I have a lot in my time walking this earth. I remember growing up it was my mouth that got me into more trouble than anything and sometimes it still does.
We live in a day that a person's word is not worth the breath that it takes to expel it. This is sad. I remember a day when I could go to the local store and get something and they would put it on a tab and it had to be paid weekly. If you did not pay your tab you lost the privilege.
I wish I was known as a man of my word. I don't think I am; but, I could be wrong. This should not be. My life is a reflection of Christ and He is a man of His Word. You will see this as you read His Word. If He says it you can mark it down that it is or will be.
So what about you? Are you considered a man or woman of your word? I sure hope so. If not it is never too late to begin to work on becoming a man or woman of your word.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
June 12, 2010
Today's reading: Job 42; Ecclesiastes 1, 2; Psalm 12, 42, 72, 102, 132; Proverbs 12
Job 42:10, "And the LORD turned the captivity of Job, when he prayed for his friends: also the LORD gave Job twice as much as he had before."
The other night I was laying in bed and I could not sleep. Have you ever had that happen? Most of us have I am sure. I laid there and laid there and could not go back to sleep. I considered getting up; but, I was afraid that if I did I would wake up everyone else. As I laid there I began to think of people. Then I thought to myself that I did not think these people were coming to mind for no reason at all. So, I began to pray for all those who came to mind. Only God knows why this happened.
As I was reading our Scripture passage for today I thought about laying in bed and praying the other night. I was caught by the phrase "...when he prayed for his friends:". I wonder how often things would be different in my life if I would just spend more time in fervent prayer. Maybe I don't want to know. Maybe I do not spend any time in fervent prayer and would be deeply convicted about it. The truth is that we all could afford to spend more time in prayer. I am not talking about the child's bedtime prayer of, "Now I lay me down to sleep. I pray the Lord my soul to keep...". This is far from what I am talking about. However; this is the kind of prayer I am afraid we most often issue up in hopes of getting them answered. This ought not to be.
Prayer is spiritual work. I hope the next time you think of me you take the opportunity to pray for me and my family. I do my very best to pray for all who come to my mind because I desperately depend upon the prayers of God's people.
So, how are you doing?
Job 42:10, "And the LORD turned the captivity of Job, when he prayed for his friends: also the LORD gave Job twice as much as he had before."
The other night I was laying in bed and I could not sleep. Have you ever had that happen? Most of us have I am sure. I laid there and laid there and could not go back to sleep. I considered getting up; but, I was afraid that if I did I would wake up everyone else. As I laid there I began to think of people. Then I thought to myself that I did not think these people were coming to mind for no reason at all. So, I began to pray for all those who came to mind. Only God knows why this happened.
As I was reading our Scripture passage for today I thought about laying in bed and praying the other night. I was caught by the phrase "...when he prayed for his friends:". I wonder how often things would be different in my life if I would just spend more time in fervent prayer. Maybe I don't want to know. Maybe I do not spend any time in fervent prayer and would be deeply convicted about it. The truth is that we all could afford to spend more time in prayer. I am not talking about the child's bedtime prayer of, "Now I lay me down to sleep. I pray the Lord my soul to keep...". This is far from what I am talking about. However; this is the kind of prayer I am afraid we most often issue up in hopes of getting them answered. This ought not to be.
Prayer is spiritual work. I hope the next time you think of me you take the opportunity to pray for me and my family. I do my very best to pray for all who come to my mind because I desperately depend upon the prayers of God's people.
So, how are you doing?
Friday, June 11, 2010
June 11, 2010
Today's reading: Job 39, 40, 41; Psalm 11, 41, 71, 101, 131; Proverbs 11
Psalm 41:9-10, "Yea, mine own familiar friend, in whom I trusted, which did eat of my bread, hath lifted up his heel against me. But thou, O LORD, be merciful unto me, and raise me up, that I may requite them."
Today I had the opportunity to go to a local Church that has a daycare ministry and clean carpets. The Pastor approached me and asked me if I would be willing to clean the carpet in the Church's gym. I thought I could do this. He related to me as we walked through the building that in the past he had many men who were out of work ask for money or things to do around the Church and when they were to come and actually do the work they were a no call and no show.
In spite of being half an hour late I did make it and believe it or not I finished the job. It took me eight (8) hours with very little break time (big surprise I know). I did not see much difference in the carpet; but, the Pastor said he did and he was grateful to me for doing it. He asked me to come back and clean the chairs that have cloth coverings on them and I have agreed.
The Scripture today made me think of those who have said "yes" to the Pastor of that Church; but, never came to do the work. The Pastor had put his trust in these men and they just blew him off like it was nothing. If you cannot keep your word you are not much of a person let alone a Christian. Shame on us who cannot keep our word. We represent Christ and should be dependable and honest.
I am so thankful for the ability to do the work today. It was not me. I am so sore and hurting right now that I can barely move. It is a good stiff and sore though. It is that feeling you get after a hard day's work. Look at Psalm 71:16, "I will go in the strength of the Lord GOD: I will make mention of thy righteousness, even of thine only." It was not me that was doing the work. It was God who enabled me to complete the task at hand. That gym looked huge at the beginning. At the end when I only had a dozen or so passes across the thing it did not look so big. I finished the job and for that I am thankful. Thank God!
So how are you doing? Are you honest and finish the job?
Psalm 41:9-10, "Yea, mine own familiar friend, in whom I trusted, which did eat of my bread, hath lifted up his heel against me. But thou, O LORD, be merciful unto me, and raise me up, that I may requite them."
Today I had the opportunity to go to a local Church that has a daycare ministry and clean carpets. The Pastor approached me and asked me if I would be willing to clean the carpet in the Church's gym. I thought I could do this. He related to me as we walked through the building that in the past he had many men who were out of work ask for money or things to do around the Church and when they were to come and actually do the work they were a no call and no show.
In spite of being half an hour late I did make it and believe it or not I finished the job. It took me eight (8) hours with very little break time (big surprise I know). I did not see much difference in the carpet; but, the Pastor said he did and he was grateful to me for doing it. He asked me to come back and clean the chairs that have cloth coverings on them and I have agreed.
The Scripture today made me think of those who have said "yes" to the Pastor of that Church; but, never came to do the work. The Pastor had put his trust in these men and they just blew him off like it was nothing. If you cannot keep your word you are not much of a person let alone a Christian. Shame on us who cannot keep our word. We represent Christ and should be dependable and honest.
I am so thankful for the ability to do the work today. It was not me. I am so sore and hurting right now that I can barely move. It is a good stiff and sore though. It is that feeling you get after a hard day's work. Look at Psalm 71:16, "I will go in the strength of the Lord GOD: I will make mention of thy righteousness, even of thine only." It was not me that was doing the work. It was God who enabled me to complete the task at hand. That gym looked huge at the beginning. At the end when I only had a dozen or so passes across the thing it did not look so big. I finished the job and for that I am thankful. Thank God!
So how are you doing? Are you honest and finish the job?
Thursday, June 10, 2010
June 10, 2010
Today's reading: Job 36, 37, 38; Psalm 10, 40, 70, 100, 130; Proverbs 10
Job 38:29, "Out of whose womb came the ice? and the hoary frost of heaven, who hath gendered it?"
Many of you know that I enjoy the hobby of photography. I have often thought about posting photos I have taken along with this blog; however, I keep talking myself out of it. As a photographer I have had the opportunity to see a lot of beautiful things. Hoary frost is one of them. It creates some of the most beautiful scenes. I wish I had an eye popping shot to post here but I don't. Maybe some day.
I believe the Bible to be true and without any error at all. It was funny one day speaking with another photographer and the subject of fog came up. They were quite amazed when I told them that hoary frost was in the Bible. I am not sure why this was such a revelation; but, it was. This just goes to show you that God's Word has it all covered.
I know that I look at things differently now. I see them as a photographer and even more so as a Christian. We who know Christ as our Saviour should look at things through the eye of Scripture so to speak. The Bible has the answer for everything and it is up to us to dig it out. When I look at a beautiful landscape I think about Psalm 19:1, "The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork." Not everyone looks at it that way. Then I decide how I am going to compose the shot and take it.
I want to challenge you to see things the way that God sees them today. Look at even the little things through the lens of the Scripture.
Job 38:29, "Out of whose womb came the ice? and the hoary frost of heaven, who hath gendered it?"
Many of you know that I enjoy the hobby of photography. I have often thought about posting photos I have taken along with this blog; however, I keep talking myself out of it. As a photographer I have had the opportunity to see a lot of beautiful things. Hoary frost is one of them. It creates some of the most beautiful scenes. I wish I had an eye popping shot to post here but I don't. Maybe some day.
I believe the Bible to be true and without any error at all. It was funny one day speaking with another photographer and the subject of fog came up. They were quite amazed when I told them that hoary frost was in the Bible. I am not sure why this was such a revelation; but, it was. This just goes to show you that God's Word has it all covered.
I know that I look at things differently now. I see them as a photographer and even more so as a Christian. We who know Christ as our Saviour should look at things through the eye of Scripture so to speak. The Bible has the answer for everything and it is up to us to dig it out. When I look at a beautiful landscape I think about Psalm 19:1, "The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork." Not everyone looks at it that way. Then I decide how I am going to compose the shot and take it.
I want to challenge you to see things the way that God sees them today. Look at even the little things through the lens of the Scripture.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
June 9, 2010
Today's reading: Job 33, 34, 35; Psalm 9, 39, 69, 99, 129, Proverbs 9
Job 33:21, "His flesh is consumed away, that it cannot be seen; and his bones that were not seen stick out."
As I was reading this Scripture passage I thought of the commercials that advertise to help feed hungry children all over the world. I thought about how their bones stick out under their skin and how horrible they appear. Then I was thinking about how we who are God's children probably look the same way spiritually speaking.
We are spiritually anemic. We do not take the time; like the men and women of old, to daily get into God's Word and not just read it but study it. I mean we need to get into the Word of God and dig like we are mining diamonds. Why don't we do this? I believe it is the flesh that keeps us from the Word of God. What is even more tragic is that the Scriptures are exactly what we need the most and we just casually look over it from time to time.
We are so blessed here in America. We have plenty and most of us are grossly overweight because we eat junk that is not good for us. On the other hand we are Spiritually starving ourselves. This ought not to be. Wake up America and get back to the Word of God daily. Pray like everything depends upon God. Study the Bible and find those Spiritual diamonds. Work until Jesus comes because it will not be much longer.
So, how are you doing?
Job 33:21, "His flesh is consumed away, that it cannot be seen; and his bones that were not seen stick out."
As I was reading this Scripture passage I thought of the commercials that advertise to help feed hungry children all over the world. I thought about how their bones stick out under their skin and how horrible they appear. Then I was thinking about how we who are God's children probably look the same way spiritually speaking.
We are spiritually anemic. We do not take the time; like the men and women of old, to daily get into God's Word and not just read it but study it. I mean we need to get into the Word of God and dig like we are mining diamonds. Why don't we do this? I believe it is the flesh that keeps us from the Word of God. What is even more tragic is that the Scriptures are exactly what we need the most and we just casually look over it from time to time.
We are so blessed here in America. We have plenty and most of us are grossly overweight because we eat junk that is not good for us. On the other hand we are Spiritually starving ourselves. This ought not to be. Wake up America and get back to the Word of God daily. Pray like everything depends upon God. Study the Bible and find those Spiritual diamonds. Work until Jesus comes because it will not be much longer.
So, how are you doing?
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
June 8, 2010
Today's reading: Job 30, 31, 32; Psalm 8, 38, 68, 98, 128; Proverbs 8
Job 31:1, "I made a covenant with mine eyes; why then should I think upon a maid?"
I remember back in high school there was a girl that I had a crush on. Funny; but, I don't remember her name today. Ha,ha. I remember telling a friend of mine that I liked her. He told me that he had social studies with her and that if I wanted to write her a note that he would take it to her for me. It thought that was pretty nice of him. He was helping a friend out.
This practice went on for a while. One day someone told me that they thought that this girl had a boyfriend. I ignored it. This was not a smart thing to do. This girl came to me one day after hearing that she was now my girlfriend to inform me that her boyfriend did not appreciate that I was telling others that she was my girlfriend. Wow! I was crushed (and was about to be by her real boyfriend).
My trip down not-so-pleasant memory lane today was brought about by the Scripture reminding me to not focus on the outwardly of women; but, focus on the inwardly and the work of God. By inwardly I mean to be more concerned about a person's salvation than their outward appearance.
It seems far too easy for most of us to be distracted by the devil. We need to keep our focus on Christ and His work and not look at things that distract us. Easily said and not so easily done, I know. Remember I am still living in this fleshly body and I struggle just like everyone else struggles.
So, what are we focusing on today?
Job 31:1, "I made a covenant with mine eyes; why then should I think upon a maid?"
I remember back in high school there was a girl that I had a crush on. Funny; but, I don't remember her name today. Ha,ha. I remember telling a friend of mine that I liked her. He told me that he had social studies with her and that if I wanted to write her a note that he would take it to her for me. It thought that was pretty nice of him. He was helping a friend out.
This practice went on for a while. One day someone told me that they thought that this girl had a boyfriend. I ignored it. This was not a smart thing to do. This girl came to me one day after hearing that she was now my girlfriend to inform me that her boyfriend did not appreciate that I was telling others that she was my girlfriend. Wow! I was crushed (and was about to be by her real boyfriend).
My trip down not-so-pleasant memory lane today was brought about by the Scripture reminding me to not focus on the outwardly of women; but, focus on the inwardly and the work of God. By inwardly I mean to be more concerned about a person's salvation than their outward appearance.
It seems far too easy for most of us to be distracted by the devil. We need to keep our focus on Christ and His work and not look at things that distract us. Easily said and not so easily done, I know. Remember I am still living in this fleshly body and I struggle just like everyone else struggles.
So, what are we focusing on today?
Monday, June 7, 2010
June 7, 2010
Today's reading: Job 27, 28, 29; Psalm 7, 37, 67, 96, 127; Proverbs 7
Job 29:3, "When his candle shined upon my head, and when by his light I walked through darkness;"
I remember being very scared of the dark growing up. I am so glad that I did not grow up during the era when going to the bathroom at night included a candle and a path out back. I would not have done well in such a case. Now that I am older we have indoor plumbing and I don't have to worry too much about the candle or flashlight. Some of my family remember vividly those days of a house having two (2) rooms and a "path". Not me.
Today I was reminded of such thinking about the candle mentioned in the Scripture for today. You know darkness is an interesting character. Have you ever noticed that when you went into a dark room and turned on the light that the darkness immediately flees? I think that is so awesome.
I am reminded of the sweet shepherd of Israel who walked "...through the valley of the shadow of death..." in Psalm 23:4. He feared no evil because he knew that God walked with him. God is light and darkness will flee away in His presence. I am sticking with the Light, myself.
It is my prayer and hope for you today that you are a child of the Light and are filled with the light of God so that in those dark days His light will shine on your path.
So, how are you shining?
Job 29:3, "When his candle shined upon my head, and when by his light I walked through darkness;"
I remember being very scared of the dark growing up. I am so glad that I did not grow up during the era when going to the bathroom at night included a candle and a path out back. I would not have done well in such a case. Now that I am older we have indoor plumbing and I don't have to worry too much about the candle or flashlight. Some of my family remember vividly those days of a house having two (2) rooms and a "path". Not me.
Today I was reminded of such thinking about the candle mentioned in the Scripture for today. You know darkness is an interesting character. Have you ever noticed that when you went into a dark room and turned on the light that the darkness immediately flees? I think that is so awesome.
I am reminded of the sweet shepherd of Israel who walked "...through the valley of the shadow of death..." in Psalm 23:4. He feared no evil because he knew that God walked with him. God is light and darkness will flee away in His presence. I am sticking with the Light, myself.
It is my prayer and hope for you today that you are a child of the Light and are filled with the light of God so that in those dark days His light will shine on your path.
So, how are you shining?
Sunday, June 6, 2010
June 6, 2010
Today's reading: Job 24, 25, 26; Psalm 6, 36, 66, 96, 126; Proverbs 6
Job 25:4, "How then can man be justified with God? or how can he be clean that is born of a woman?"
This is a great question. So many people ask this question today; but, they seek to justify themselves by what they do. It is not what you do. It is what Jesus did. To be justified is as some Christians of old used to say, "Just as if I have never sinned." This is true but it is way more than that. To be justified is to be standing before the Judge and He examines all of the evidence and hears all of the testimony from both sides and slams the gavel down and says, "Not guilty!" You see the Judge looks at the blood of Jesus and sees full payment for our sin. It is by His blood that we are justified and many other things also.
When you come to the realization of the truth of Scripture that Jesus died for you it should motivate you and I to tell others about salvation by grace, through faith. The Scriptures tell us in Psalm 126:5-6, "They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him." What a promise of God. Sowing is telling others about Jesus and what He did for them. Reaping is actually showing them how to be saved. What an awesome privilege we have to share the Gospel with others or tell others how to be born-again. I hope you are telling others as you go. We are commanded to do so.
So, how are you doing?
Job 25:4, "How then can man be justified with God? or how can he be clean that is born of a woman?"
This is a great question. So many people ask this question today; but, they seek to justify themselves by what they do. It is not what you do. It is what Jesus did. To be justified is as some Christians of old used to say, "Just as if I have never sinned." This is true but it is way more than that. To be justified is to be standing before the Judge and He examines all of the evidence and hears all of the testimony from both sides and slams the gavel down and says, "Not guilty!" You see the Judge looks at the blood of Jesus and sees full payment for our sin. It is by His blood that we are justified and many other things also.
When you come to the realization of the truth of Scripture that Jesus died for you it should motivate you and I to tell others about salvation by grace, through faith. The Scriptures tell us in Psalm 126:5-6, "They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him." What a promise of God. Sowing is telling others about Jesus and what He did for them. Reaping is actually showing them how to be saved. What an awesome privilege we have to share the Gospel with others or tell others how to be born-again. I hope you are telling others as you go. We are commanded to do so.
So, how are you doing?
Saturday, June 5, 2010
June 5, 2010
Today's reading: Job 21, 22, 23; Psalm 5, 35, 65, 95, 125; Proverbs 5
Proverbs 5:19-20, "Let her be as the loving hind and pleasant roe; let her breasts satisfy thee at all times; and be thou ravished always with her love. And why wilt thou, my son, be ravished with a strange woman, and embrace the bosom of a stranger?"
I am increasingly disturbed with the number of marriages that break up. This should not be. The problem is that the statistics are just as bad in the Church as they are in the world. this really should not be. We know one couple that have been married for (40) forty years and are in the process of getting a divorce. I am heart broken over this.
I know in one case that the husband did not heed the counsel of our Scripture verse for today. He "lost that lovin' feelin'." Well, I don't agree with that truthfully. I don't believe that we just fall in love and then fall out of love. You see love is a choice. What the world calls love the Bible calls lust. Love is not a feeling. It is a choice! I choose to love my wife or I choose not to love my wife; whatever, the case may be.
I look forward every month to reading this passage. I like it because it is such good practical advice. It is a great reminder to me and other men out there too. If we do not heed the teaching and warning of the Scripture then we will be like the man in Proverbs 5:22, "His own iniquities shall take the wicked himself, and he shall be holden with the cords of his sins." If you want to be free then you have to live the life that Christ sets forth or you will not be truly free. You will be enslaved to sin like so many others.
Do you know Christ as your Saviour? I hope so.
Proverbs 5:19-20, "Let her be as the loving hind and pleasant roe; let her breasts satisfy thee at all times; and be thou ravished always with her love. And why wilt thou, my son, be ravished with a strange woman, and embrace the bosom of a stranger?"
I am increasingly disturbed with the number of marriages that break up. This should not be. The problem is that the statistics are just as bad in the Church as they are in the world. this really should not be. We know one couple that have been married for (40) forty years and are in the process of getting a divorce. I am heart broken over this.
I know in one case that the husband did not heed the counsel of our Scripture verse for today. He "lost that lovin' feelin'." Well, I don't agree with that truthfully. I don't believe that we just fall in love and then fall out of love. You see love is a choice. What the world calls love the Bible calls lust. Love is not a feeling. It is a choice! I choose to love my wife or I choose not to love my wife; whatever, the case may be.
I look forward every month to reading this passage. I like it because it is such good practical advice. It is a great reminder to me and other men out there too. If we do not heed the teaching and warning of the Scripture then we will be like the man in Proverbs 5:22, "His own iniquities shall take the wicked himself, and he shall be holden with the cords of his sins." If you want to be free then you have to live the life that Christ sets forth or you will not be truly free. You will be enslaved to sin like so many others.
Do you know Christ as your Saviour? I hope so.
Friday, June 4, 2010
June 4, 2010
Today's reading: Job 18, 19, 20; Psalm 4, 34, 64, 94, 124; Proverbs 4
Job 19:25, "For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth:"
Today as I am writing this the news stations are reporting that the legendary coach John Wooden is in the hospital and his condition is listed as grave. He is 99 years old. Wow! What a successful life this man has led in the eyes of the world. I do not know his spiritual condition; but, I do pray that he has been born-again.
You and I who know Christ as our Saviour do not need to fear death. Our eternal destiny is as sure as Christ arose from the dead. That is the beauty of the resurrection of Christ. It is because He arose and now lives that you and I can rest assured that if we are His child then we will do likewise. Amen!
We serve a risen Saviour. You can go all over the world and find the grave of different "religious" leaders and they will contain what is left of their remains. You will never find the grave of Jesus with any remains in it whatsoever. He used a borrowed tomb because He only needed it for three (3) days.
I hope today that you and I will live like we serve a risen, living Saviour. We should because there are millions who do not know Him that are depending upon us to point them to Christ. Does the resurrection enable you to live for Jesus? I hope so.
How are you doing?
Job 19:25, "For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth:"
Today as I am writing this the news stations are reporting that the legendary coach John Wooden is in the hospital and his condition is listed as grave. He is 99 years old. Wow! What a successful life this man has led in the eyes of the world. I do not know his spiritual condition; but, I do pray that he has been born-again.
You and I who know Christ as our Saviour do not need to fear death. Our eternal destiny is as sure as Christ arose from the dead. That is the beauty of the resurrection of Christ. It is because He arose and now lives that you and I can rest assured that if we are His child then we will do likewise. Amen!
We serve a risen Saviour. You can go all over the world and find the grave of different "religious" leaders and they will contain what is left of their remains. You will never find the grave of Jesus with any remains in it whatsoever. He used a borrowed tomb because He only needed it for three (3) days.
I hope today that you and I will live like we serve a risen, living Saviour. We should because there are millions who do not know Him that are depending upon us to point them to Christ. Does the resurrection enable you to live for Jesus? I hope so.
How are you doing?
Thursday, June 3, 2010
June 3, 2010
Today's reading: Job 15, 16, 17; Psalm 3, 33, 63, 93, 123; Proverbs 3
Psalm 33:18, "Behold, the eye of the LORD is upon them that fear him, upon them that hope in his mercy;"
I was reading "Larry Lilly's Journal" today. It came on time; but, sometimes I put off reading it as soon as it arrives in the mail. As I was reading today he related a story about a prisoner he was talking to recently. This man related that "Larry Lilly's Journal" saved his life. He had a gun pointed at his own head and was going to kill himself when he saw Dr. Lilly's faithful work for Jesus. He put the gun down and read the literary work. He repented of his sin and also went to the authorities and repented of some things. For this he is serving a sentence in prison. As he talked with Dr. Lilly he asked him, "So, what is your name?" You see this literary work was sent by God to this man's wife in order to preserve his life, I believe.
Today at lunch my mother, my son and I went to a local fast food establishment. The reason we went was because Zach works there. I was told that Zach wanted to see my son. You see, a few years ago Zach was a struggling boy. In hopes of giving him something to do to divert his attention somewhere other than where it was he was asked to be a peer in my son's class at school. Our son had been written off by school officials as a "bad kid" because of his inability to communicate. This makes him aggressive. Zach is the only person that has ever worked with our son who has never been hit by him. You see, they needed each other. In their own way they needed the other one and God worked it out in His timing to bring two boys across each other's path at just the right time. Zach is now almost 18 and walks several blocks to work and seems to be a responsible young man. Praise God!
My rant today? Simple really. Our Scripture today reminds us that God is not removed from you and I; but, He is ever watching us and meeting our needs. He is not watching us to pound us with His fist. He is watching over us and cares for us just like the Heavenly Father that He is and for that I am thankful. I don't know where our son would be today; nor, do I know where Zach would be either.
God is good! All of the time!
Psalm 33:18, "Behold, the eye of the LORD is upon them that fear him, upon them that hope in his mercy;"
I was reading "Larry Lilly's Journal" today. It came on time; but, sometimes I put off reading it as soon as it arrives in the mail. As I was reading today he related a story about a prisoner he was talking to recently. This man related that "Larry Lilly's Journal" saved his life. He had a gun pointed at his own head and was going to kill himself when he saw Dr. Lilly's faithful work for Jesus. He put the gun down and read the literary work. He repented of his sin and also went to the authorities and repented of some things. For this he is serving a sentence in prison. As he talked with Dr. Lilly he asked him, "So, what is your name?" You see this literary work was sent by God to this man's wife in order to preserve his life, I believe.
Today at lunch my mother, my son and I went to a local fast food establishment. The reason we went was because Zach works there. I was told that Zach wanted to see my son. You see, a few years ago Zach was a struggling boy. In hopes of giving him something to do to divert his attention somewhere other than where it was he was asked to be a peer in my son's class at school. Our son had been written off by school officials as a "bad kid" because of his inability to communicate. This makes him aggressive. Zach is the only person that has ever worked with our son who has never been hit by him. You see, they needed each other. In their own way they needed the other one and God worked it out in His timing to bring two boys across each other's path at just the right time. Zach is now almost 18 and walks several blocks to work and seems to be a responsible young man. Praise God!
My rant today? Simple really. Our Scripture today reminds us that God is not removed from you and I; but, He is ever watching us and meeting our needs. He is not watching us to pound us with His fist. He is watching over us and cares for us just like the Heavenly Father that He is and for that I am thankful. I don't know where our son would be today; nor, do I know where Zach would be either.
God is good! All of the time!
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
June 2, 2010
Today's reading: Job 12, 13, 14; Psalm 2, 32, 62, 92, 122; Proverbs 2
Job 7:12, "But ask now the beasts, and they shall teach thee; and the fowls of the air, and they shall tell thee:"
The other evening we were watching one of those shows on TV that have funny videos (some are not funny at all). On this episode there was a group whitewater rafting down a river. As they made their way down the river a kayak comes across the screen and is thrown into the boat with the group of kids. It was kind of funny. The next video was a large boat docking. A man jumped off the boat with rope in hand. When he landed he stumbled and fell down on the dock and rolled off the dock to the shore and then down the shore and under the dock as it paralleled the water's edge. I was laughing so hard I could almost not stop.
I am sure that you are wondering where I am going with this little trip down memory lane. I was thinking about that poor guy who fell and how he was not tied off to keep him from falling like that. This brought to my feeble mind that if you and I are not tied off to something stronger than us, we could fall at anytime.
Some of us do as Job 12:25, "They grope in the dark without light, and he maketh them to stagger like a drunken man. This makes me think of those who do not know Christ as their Saviour and how they do just what this passage says. They do not have the moorings to keep them stable.
Job is one of those guys in the Bible that you would say is tied off to the right place. Look at Job 13:15, "Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him: but I will maintain mine own ways before him." This guy is putting his full faith and trust in God. Job is tied off right where he needs to be. You and I need to be tied off there too just like Job of old.
The best place in the world to get this mooring is God's house. Look at Psalm 122:1, "I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the LORD." What is your attitude at Church time? Is it a drudgery to go or is it a true pleasure? As you go to Church and learn more about God you will become more grounded and it will take less and less to knock you off course.
So, how is your mooring? Rock solid I hope.
Job 7:12, "But ask now the beasts, and they shall teach thee; and the fowls of the air, and they shall tell thee:"
The other evening we were watching one of those shows on TV that have funny videos (some are not funny at all). On this episode there was a group whitewater rafting down a river. As they made their way down the river a kayak comes across the screen and is thrown into the boat with the group of kids. It was kind of funny. The next video was a large boat docking. A man jumped off the boat with rope in hand. When he landed he stumbled and fell down on the dock and rolled off the dock to the shore and then down the shore and under the dock as it paralleled the water's edge. I was laughing so hard I could almost not stop.
I am sure that you are wondering where I am going with this little trip down memory lane. I was thinking about that poor guy who fell and how he was not tied off to keep him from falling like that. This brought to my feeble mind that if you and I are not tied off to something stronger than us, we could fall at anytime.
Some of us do as Job 12:25, "They grope in the dark without light, and he maketh them to stagger like a drunken man. This makes me think of those who do not know Christ as their Saviour and how they do just what this passage says. They do not have the moorings to keep them stable.
Job is one of those guys in the Bible that you would say is tied off to the right place. Look at Job 13:15, "Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him: but I will maintain mine own ways before him." This guy is putting his full faith and trust in God. Job is tied off right where he needs to be. You and I need to be tied off there too just like Job of old.
The best place in the world to get this mooring is God's house. Look at Psalm 122:1, "I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the LORD." What is your attitude at Church time? Is it a drudgery to go or is it a true pleasure? As you go to Church and learn more about God you will become more grounded and it will take less and less to knock you off course.
So, how is your mooring? Rock solid I hope.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
June 1, 2010
Today's reading: Job 9, 10, 11; Psalm 1, 31, 61, 91, 121; Proverbs 1
Job 11:6, "And that he would shew thee the secrets of wisdom, that they are double to that which is! Know therefore that God exacteth of thee less than thine iniquity deserveth."
Several years ago we went to Church with a guy that when you would ask him how he was doing he would reply, "Better than I deserve." This truth is substantiated here in our passage for today. If the truth be known we all deserve nothing but hell. Wow! That is not politically correct. I realize that it is not politically correct to talk about hell; but, it is a reality and must be talked about.
Job is telling us the truth here. He is reminding us that we deserve hell; but, God in His mercy has provided us a way of escape. Our escape plan? Jesus Christ. This also answers the question in Job 9:2, "I know it is so of a truth: but how should man be just with God?" Again the answer is Jesus Christ.
Persons who are just or justified are people that will not go to hell. Thanks be unto God! To be justified is to have been before the Judge and He looks at the evidence and sees that Jesus Christ has paid your personal sin debt and then strikes the gavel down and says, "Paid in full. Not guilty." This ought to do something for you. I know that it sure hit home to me today.
Now how do we live this truth out? It is simple really. Live like you have been freed from prison (the prison of sin). Live justified. Live your life like Jesus Christ is your King. Easy said, I know. Some days it is not so easily done.
So, how are you doing?
Job 11:6, "And that he would shew thee the secrets of wisdom, that they are double to that which is! Know therefore that God exacteth of thee less than thine iniquity deserveth."
Several years ago we went to Church with a guy that when you would ask him how he was doing he would reply, "Better than I deserve." This truth is substantiated here in our passage for today. If the truth be known we all deserve nothing but hell. Wow! That is not politically correct. I realize that it is not politically correct to talk about hell; but, it is a reality and must be talked about.
Job is telling us the truth here. He is reminding us that we deserve hell; but, God in His mercy has provided us a way of escape. Our escape plan? Jesus Christ. This also answers the question in Job 9:2, "I know it is so of a truth: but how should man be just with God?" Again the answer is Jesus Christ.
Persons who are just or justified are people that will not go to hell. Thanks be unto God! To be justified is to have been before the Judge and He looks at the evidence and sees that Jesus Christ has paid your personal sin debt and then strikes the gavel down and says, "Paid in full. Not guilty." This ought to do something for you. I know that it sure hit home to me today.
Now how do we live this truth out? It is simple really. Live like you have been freed from prison (the prison of sin). Live justified. Live your life like Jesus Christ is your King. Easy said, I know. Some days it is not so easily done.
So, how are you doing?
Monday, May 31, 2010
May 31, 2010
Today's reading: Psalm 119; Proverbs 31
Proverbs 31:10, "Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies."
Today is Memorial Day 2010. I wanted to talk about the tremendous sacrifice of soldiers of all branches of service who have given their lives in service to our country. However; I have seemed to have a change of plans. As I was reading this passage I thought of the huge sacrifice that mothers and wives make and I thought I would memorialize them today.
I know that in my life my mother, grandmother and two (2) aunts have been a tremendous Christian influence not only to me; but, to many others also. Grandma Ruth is in heaven along with Grandpa and we miss them so much. We would not wish them back here to this vale of tears for nothing. My grandparents were some of the most godly people that you would ever meet. You just knew that by meeting them. They did not have to tell you like some people of our day would. They just were fantastic Christian people as are my mother and my aunts.
I thank God for such a godly heritage. I feel like Timothy as Paul recounts his godly heritage in II Timothy 1:5, "When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also." People who do not grow up in such an atmosphere really don't know what they have missed. It really is sad.
Today I will keep it very short; but, let me ask you something. If you died today what kind of legacy would you leave? What kind of memorial would you leave behind?
Proverbs 31:10, "Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies."
Today is Memorial Day 2010. I wanted to talk about the tremendous sacrifice of soldiers of all branches of service who have given their lives in service to our country. However; I have seemed to have a change of plans. As I was reading this passage I thought of the huge sacrifice that mothers and wives make and I thought I would memorialize them today.
I know that in my life my mother, grandmother and two (2) aunts have been a tremendous Christian influence not only to me; but, to many others also. Grandma Ruth is in heaven along with Grandpa and we miss them so much. We would not wish them back here to this vale of tears for nothing. My grandparents were some of the most godly people that you would ever meet. You just knew that by meeting them. They did not have to tell you like some people of our day would. They just were fantastic Christian people as are my mother and my aunts.
I thank God for such a godly heritage. I feel like Timothy as Paul recounts his godly heritage in II Timothy 1:5, "When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also." People who do not grow up in such an atmosphere really don't know what they have missed. It really is sad.
Today I will keep it very short; but, let me ask you something. If you died today what kind of legacy would you leave? What kind of memorial would you leave behind?
Sunday, May 30, 2010
May 30, 2010
Today's reading: Job 6, 7, 8; Psalm 30, 60, 90, 120, 150; Proverbs 30
Job 7:1, "Is there not an appointed time to man upon earth? are not his days also like the days of an hireling?"
I was caught by the question, "Is there not an appointed time to man upon the earth?" The answer to that question is yes. We all have a certain amount of time in life and that is all we have.
The writer of Hebrews said it this way in Hebrews 9:27, "And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:" Now, I could hound certain religious systems about their beliefs in purgatory and all; but, I am not here to do that. I am here to make each one of us think about our own appointment with death. This weekend we celebrate Memorial Day. This should make us all realize as we honor those who gave their lives for us that we too have an appointment. This is one appointment for which you and I will not be late. We will not be early either.
When we are young we think we are bulletproof. Wrong! Far too many young people step out into eternity unprepared for what is next. May God help us to get the message of salvation out to the world no matter if they want to hear it or not. It is our job to get the message out. The listening part is between them and God. We will give account for what we did and that alone. We will not give account for someone else.
So, when is your next appointment? Sure about that?
Job 7:1, "Is there not an appointed time to man upon earth? are not his days also like the days of an hireling?"
I was caught by the question, "Is there not an appointed time to man upon the earth?" The answer to that question is yes. We all have a certain amount of time in life and that is all we have.
The writer of Hebrews said it this way in Hebrews 9:27, "And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:" Now, I could hound certain religious systems about their beliefs in purgatory and all; but, I am not here to do that. I am here to make each one of us think about our own appointment with death. This weekend we celebrate Memorial Day. This should make us all realize as we honor those who gave their lives for us that we too have an appointment. This is one appointment for which you and I will not be late. We will not be early either.
When we are young we think we are bulletproof. Wrong! Far too many young people step out into eternity unprepared for what is next. May God help us to get the message of salvation out to the world no matter if they want to hear it or not. It is our job to get the message out. The listening part is between them and God. We will give account for what we did and that alone. We will not give account for someone else.
So, when is your next appointment? Sure about that?
Saturday, May 29, 2010
May 29, 2010
Today's reading: Job 3, 4, 5; Psalm 29, 59, 89, 149; Proverbs 29
Job 3:11, "Why died I not from the womb? why did I not give up the ghost when I came out of the belly?"
I sometimes shy away from the book of Job. Some people see it as confusing and the critics will tell you that there is error recorded in it. The Bible accurately records what each person said. It cannot help (so to speak) the flawed counsel of the one speaking. It is accurately the Word of God.
The older I get the more I seem to associate with Job. Believe you me, I do not in any way believe that I am as strong a believer nor have the faith that Job demonstrates. I can only wish that I were so strong. My problem is that I do not want to walk where Job has walked to bring him to the place of monumental faith.
There have been many emotional times in my life where I have sit with face implanted in my hands weeping and asking God, "Why did I have to live?" Why couldn't I have died?" He has not yet answered me and I believe that is the heart of a loving Heavenly Father. Look at Jeremiah 29:11, "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end." You see my friend, God has an awesome plan for your life and mine. We just need to yield ourselves to His will.
The sad part is that we are all born sinners and without Jesus Christ we have no hope of eternal life. Look at Job 5:7-9, "Yet man is born unto trouble, as the sparks fly upward. I would seek unto God, and unto God would I commit my cause: Which doeth great things and unsearchable; marvellous things without number:" We are born sinners and so we sin and this separates us from God. Thankfully we can be reconciled to God through Jesus Christ if we will accept Him as our Lord and Saviour.
Because of this we can say as Job in Job 5:16, "So the poor hath hope, and iniquity stoppeth her mouth." We have hope of eternal life if we trust Christ. It is my desire for you to do exactly that.
Will you?
Job 3:11, "Why died I not from the womb? why did I not give up the ghost when I came out of the belly?"
I sometimes shy away from the book of Job. Some people see it as confusing and the critics will tell you that there is error recorded in it. The Bible accurately records what each person said. It cannot help (so to speak) the flawed counsel of the one speaking. It is accurately the Word of God.
The older I get the more I seem to associate with Job. Believe you me, I do not in any way believe that I am as strong a believer nor have the faith that Job demonstrates. I can only wish that I were so strong. My problem is that I do not want to walk where Job has walked to bring him to the place of monumental faith.
There have been many emotional times in my life where I have sit with face implanted in my hands weeping and asking God, "Why did I have to live?" Why couldn't I have died?" He has not yet answered me and I believe that is the heart of a loving Heavenly Father. Look at Jeremiah 29:11, "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end." You see my friend, God has an awesome plan for your life and mine. We just need to yield ourselves to His will.
The sad part is that we are all born sinners and without Jesus Christ we have no hope of eternal life. Look at Job 5:7-9, "Yet man is born unto trouble, as the sparks fly upward. I would seek unto God, and unto God would I commit my cause: Which doeth great things and unsearchable; marvellous things without number:" We are born sinners and so we sin and this separates us from God. Thankfully we can be reconciled to God through Jesus Christ if we will accept Him as our Lord and Saviour.
Because of this we can say as Job in Job 5:16, "So the poor hath hope, and iniquity stoppeth her mouth." We have hope of eternal life if we trust Christ. It is my desire for you to do exactly that.
Will you?
Friday, May 28, 2010
May 28, 2010
Today's reading: Esther 10; Job 1, 2; Psalm 28, 58, 88, 118, 148; Proverbs 28
Job 1:8, "And the LORD said unto Satan, Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil?" (escheweth - to turn off)
I have been thinking about Memorial Day this week as I prepare to teach the teen Sunday School class again this week. I am very excited. It is not often that teens care about some old guy coming to teach their class. Last time the lesson I prepared was a dead as a door knob. I don't know what happened. I hope this week will be the direct opposite. I hope and pray that God will meet with us and everyone will be challenged through His Word.
In our Scripture for today I was reminded of how Job's life was a memorial to God. Notice the ownership God shows. He said, "Hast thou considered my servant Job". He goes on to say, "there is none like him in the earth...". What a testimony! When people look at my life do they see a memorial to God? I hope so.
Notice Job's reaction to having just lost everything including his children. Job 1:20-21, "Then Job arose, and rent his mantle, and shaved his head, and fell down upon the ground, and worshipped, And said, Naked came I out of my mother's womb, and naked shall I return thither: the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD." (worshipped - to prostrate)
What a testimony of Job to God. I don't know if I could say that or not. I hope I never find out. However; I fear differently. You never know what has been brought into your life so that others will see Christ in you and give them hope or even lead them to desire a personal relationship with Him.
Too many of us want to follow the instructions of Job's wife in Job 2:9, "Then said his wife unto him, Dost thou still retain thine integrity? curse God, and die."
What is your memorial to?
Job 1:8, "And the LORD said unto Satan, Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil?" (escheweth - to turn off)
I have been thinking about Memorial Day this week as I prepare to teach the teen Sunday School class again this week. I am very excited. It is not often that teens care about some old guy coming to teach their class. Last time the lesson I prepared was a dead as a door knob. I don't know what happened. I hope this week will be the direct opposite. I hope and pray that God will meet with us and everyone will be challenged through His Word.
In our Scripture for today I was reminded of how Job's life was a memorial to God. Notice the ownership God shows. He said, "Hast thou considered my servant Job". He goes on to say, "there is none like him in the earth...". What a testimony! When people look at my life do they see a memorial to God? I hope so.
Notice Job's reaction to having just lost everything including his children. Job 1:20-21, "Then Job arose, and rent his mantle, and shaved his head, and fell down upon the ground, and worshipped, And said, Naked came I out of my mother's womb, and naked shall I return thither: the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD." (worshipped - to prostrate)
What a testimony of Job to God. I don't know if I could say that or not. I hope I never find out. However; I fear differently. You never know what has been brought into your life so that others will see Christ in you and give them hope or even lead them to desire a personal relationship with Him.
Too many of us want to follow the instructions of Job's wife in Job 2:9, "Then said his wife unto him, Dost thou still retain thine integrity? curse God, and die."
What is your memorial to?
Thursday, May 27, 2010
May 27, 2010
Today's reading: Esther 7, 8, 9; Psalm 27, 57, 87, 117, 147; Proverbs 27
Esther 7:8-9, "Then the king returned out of the palace garden into the place of the banquet of wine; and Haman was fallen upon the bed whereon Esther was. Then said the king, Will he force the queen also before me in the house? As the word went out of the king's mouth, they covered Haman's face. And Harbonah, one of the chamberlains, said before the king, Behold also, the gallows fifty cubits high, which Haman had made for Mordecai, who had spoken good for the king, standeth in the house of Haman. Then the king said, Hang him thereon."
I remember as a teenager going hunting with a friend from school. We went to the farm where my aunt and uncle lived. There was a small patch of woods there and plenty of things to shoot at. If I remember correctly it was November and very cold. I do remember there was some snow on the ground and things were pretty well frozen over. For some stupid reason We decided to empty his semi-automatic shotgun into a large tree to see what it would do. Did I mention this was a stupid idea? The tree was quite frozen and all the buckshot from three shells came back and hit us both. I had small BB holes in my vest as I remember and I don't remember if my friend sustained any damage. By the grace of God neither one of us were injured.
I really don't know why we did that. One thing I do know is that we did not count the cost. We did not think about what might really happen. After it was all over we wished that we had not done such a stupid thing. "Kids!" you might say. We knew better; but, we did it anyway. Then came the repercussions. Nobody wants to deal with them.
It is the same in our spiritual life. If we as God's children sin there will be repercussions. Sin always brings with it a penalty. If we are not God's child the repercussions are even greater. If you step out into eternity, friend, without trusting Jesus Christ as your Saviour you will go straight to a real place called hell. It is a place of torment that was prepared for the devil and his angels. God never intended for us to go there. It is our sin that sentences us to hell if we do not trust Jesus Christ as our Saviour. Will you trust Him today? I hope so.
Esther 7:8-9, "Then the king returned out of the palace garden into the place of the banquet of wine; and Haman was fallen upon the bed whereon Esther was. Then said the king, Will he force the queen also before me in the house? As the word went out of the king's mouth, they covered Haman's face. And Harbonah, one of the chamberlains, said before the king, Behold also, the gallows fifty cubits high, which Haman had made for Mordecai, who had spoken good for the king, standeth in the house of Haman. Then the king said, Hang him thereon."
I remember as a teenager going hunting with a friend from school. We went to the farm where my aunt and uncle lived. There was a small patch of woods there and plenty of things to shoot at. If I remember correctly it was November and very cold. I do remember there was some snow on the ground and things were pretty well frozen over. For some stupid reason We decided to empty his semi-automatic shotgun into a large tree to see what it would do. Did I mention this was a stupid idea? The tree was quite frozen and all the buckshot from three shells came back and hit us both. I had small BB holes in my vest as I remember and I don't remember if my friend sustained any damage. By the grace of God neither one of us were injured.
I really don't know why we did that. One thing I do know is that we did not count the cost. We did not think about what might really happen. After it was all over we wished that we had not done such a stupid thing. "Kids!" you might say. We knew better; but, we did it anyway. Then came the repercussions. Nobody wants to deal with them.
It is the same in our spiritual life. If we as God's children sin there will be repercussions. Sin always brings with it a penalty. If we are not God's child the repercussions are even greater. If you step out into eternity, friend, without trusting Jesus Christ as your Saviour you will go straight to a real place called hell. It is a place of torment that was prepared for the devil and his angels. God never intended for us to go there. It is our sin that sentences us to hell if we do not trust Jesus Christ as our Saviour. Will you trust Him today? I hope so.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
May 26, 2010
Today's reading: Ezra 4, 5, 6; Psalm 26, 56, 86, 116, 146; Proverbs 26
Esther 4:1, "When Mordecai perceived all that was done, Mordecai rent his clothes, and put on sackcloth with ashes, and went out into the midst of the city, and cried with a loud and a bitter cry;"
I wish I understood why people react the way that they do to certain situations. Young children often laugh uncontrollably when they should cry. Some people have no reaction at all to pain. I am reminded of a story of a doctor who dealt with patients who had the dreaded disease of leprosy. The account I heard was of his patients who did not know they were burning themselves on the stove so there was no reaction to the pain because they felt no pain.
Some people run around life acting like they feel no pain. I do not believe this is totally true. I think they suppress their reactions. We could respond with the fight or flight reaction. If the pain is caused by someone else then we could flee or run from it. We could ignore it and let it fester and get worse and worse. This is not a good reaction.
On the other hand we could fight. In that fight we could enlist others to help us. The best place to start is to pray and seek God's will in your response. Notice the reaction of those who ministered to Esther in Esther 4:4, "So Esther's maids and her chamberlains came and told it her. Then was the queen exceedingly grieved; and she sent raiment to clothe Mordecai, and to take away his sackcloth from him: but he received it not." Esther was trying to minister to the need of Mordecai; but, he would not allow it. Sometimes accepting help is the most difficult step.
Look at Esther 4:16-17, "Go, gather together all the Jews that are present in Shushan, and fast ye for me, and neither eat nor drink three days, night or day: I also and my maidens will fast likewise; and so will I go in unto the king, which is not according to the law: and if I perish, I perish. So Mordecai went his way, and did according to all that Esther had commanded him." Now everyone is on board together fasting and praying and look at the result. Esther is willing to do what she needs to do. This is a proper reaction.
So, how are you doing?
Esther 4:1, "When Mordecai perceived all that was done, Mordecai rent his clothes, and put on sackcloth with ashes, and went out into the midst of the city, and cried with a loud and a bitter cry;"
I wish I understood why people react the way that they do to certain situations. Young children often laugh uncontrollably when they should cry. Some people have no reaction at all to pain. I am reminded of a story of a doctor who dealt with patients who had the dreaded disease of leprosy. The account I heard was of his patients who did not know they were burning themselves on the stove so there was no reaction to the pain because they felt no pain.
Some people run around life acting like they feel no pain. I do not believe this is totally true. I think they suppress their reactions. We could respond with the fight or flight reaction. If the pain is caused by someone else then we could flee or run from it. We could ignore it and let it fester and get worse and worse. This is not a good reaction.
On the other hand we could fight. In that fight we could enlist others to help us. The best place to start is to pray and seek God's will in your response. Notice the reaction of those who ministered to Esther in Esther 4:4, "So Esther's maids and her chamberlains came and told it her. Then was the queen exceedingly grieved; and she sent raiment to clothe Mordecai, and to take away his sackcloth from him: but he received it not." Esther was trying to minister to the need of Mordecai; but, he would not allow it. Sometimes accepting help is the most difficult step.
Look at Esther 4:16-17, "Go, gather together all the Jews that are present in Shushan, and fast ye for me, and neither eat nor drink three days, night or day: I also and my maidens will fast likewise; and so will I go in unto the king, which is not according to the law: and if I perish, I perish. So Mordecai went his way, and did according to all that Esther had commanded him." Now everyone is on board together fasting and praying and look at the result. Esther is willing to do what she needs to do. This is a proper reaction.
So, how are you doing?
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
May 25, 2010
Today's reading: Esther 1, 2, 3; Psalm 25, 55, 85, 115, 145; Proverbs 25
Esther 1:19-20, "If it please the king, let there go a royal commandment from him, and let it be written among the laws of the Persians and the Medes, that it be not altered, That Vashti come no more before king Ahasuerus; and let the king give her royal estate unto another that is better than she. And when the king's decree which he shall make shall be published throughout all his empire, (for it is great,) all the wives shall give to their husbands honour, both to great and small."
Today as I was reading our Scripture for today I was caught by the phrase, "That Vashti come no more before king Ahasuerus;". This account of the king and queen is familiar to most. The king is having a big party and calls for the queen and she refuses. This was her first mistake. Or was it? I often wonder if she refused because it was a drunken party. This could be. However; if she had not done this then God would have had different plans for the Jews concerning Haman trying to destroy them.
Sin separates. Did you know that? When we sin we become separated from God. This has to do with fellowship and does not deal with salvation. There is nothing that we can do to be "unsaved" if you will. We are eternally saved. The Scripture is very clear on that point and we do not have enough room in this electronic space to cover it all. It is our sin that separates us from God.
This is the picture that I saw as I was reading our Scripture for today. The queen rebelled against the commandment of the king and she paid a huge price for it. You and I can rest assured that if we sin against God that there is a huge price to pay. The good news? Jesus Christ paid the price on the cross. All you and I have to do is ask for forgiveness. In the Scripture for today the king made the declaration according to the law of the medes and persians. This meant that it could not be altered. The great thing is that if you and I sin against God all we have to do is ask for forgiveness and we are forgiven. Praise the Lord!
Have you been forgiven? I hope so.
Esther 1:19-20, "If it please the king, let there go a royal commandment from him, and let it be written among the laws of the Persians and the Medes, that it be not altered, That Vashti come no more before king Ahasuerus; and let the king give her royal estate unto another that is better than she. And when the king's decree which he shall make shall be published throughout all his empire, (for it is great,) all the wives shall give to their husbands honour, both to great and small."
Today as I was reading our Scripture for today I was caught by the phrase, "That Vashti come no more before king Ahasuerus;". This account of the king and queen is familiar to most. The king is having a big party and calls for the queen and she refuses. This was her first mistake. Or was it? I often wonder if she refused because it was a drunken party. This could be. However; if she had not done this then God would have had different plans for the Jews concerning Haman trying to destroy them.
Sin separates. Did you know that? When we sin we become separated from God. This has to do with fellowship and does not deal with salvation. There is nothing that we can do to be "unsaved" if you will. We are eternally saved. The Scripture is very clear on that point and we do not have enough room in this electronic space to cover it all. It is our sin that separates us from God.
This is the picture that I saw as I was reading our Scripture for today. The queen rebelled against the commandment of the king and she paid a huge price for it. You and I can rest assured that if we sin against God that there is a huge price to pay. The good news? Jesus Christ paid the price on the cross. All you and I have to do is ask for forgiveness. In the Scripture for today the king made the declaration according to the law of the medes and persians. This meant that it could not be altered. The great thing is that if you and I sin against God all we have to do is ask for forgiveness and we are forgiven. Praise the Lord!
Have you been forgiven? I hope so.
Monday, May 24, 2010
May 24, 2010
Today's reading: Nehemiah 11, 12, 13; Psalm 24, 54, 84, 114, 144; Proverbs 24
Nehemiah 13:1-3, "On that day they read in the book of Moses in the audience of the people; and therein was found written, that the Ammonite and the Moabite should not come into the congregation of God for ever; Because they met not the children of Israel with bread and with water, but hired Balaam against them, that he should curse them: howbeit our God turned the curse into a blessing. Now it came to pass, when they had heard the law, that they separated from Israel all the mixed multitude."
The other day I was sitting and thinking about how much better I felt when I was walking on the treadmill everyday. I thought i might go outside and walk around the neighborhood. I thought well I could walk to the door between the garage and the laundry room and begin to stretch before taking my walk. I soon decided against it with so many excuses. Sound familiar?
You see it was not taking a walk that I was against, really. I just did not want to do what I needed to prepare to go walk. Actually I just wanted to walk out into the garage and magically the exercise would be done for me. Lazy, I know.
I did not want to take the time to prepare for the task ahead of me. This brings about so many problems. Someone once said, "Prior planning prevents potentially poor performance." Say that three (3) times fast.
In our Scripture for today the people were listening to the Word of God being read. They were making preparation. That is always a good place to start. By reading God's word you get your marching orders for the day.
What if you found yourself in Nehemiah's place in Nehemiah 13:11, "Then contended I with the rulers, and said, Why is the house of God forsaken? And I gathered them together, and set them in their place." If you did not prepare you would struggle with the battle at hand. Preparation is vitally important. Now, on the other hand we have to rely upon God to work through us; but, He wants us to prepare. This way the Holy Spirit has something to work with. There is ammunition in the bunker that He can bring to your memory as needed.
The wisest man said in Proverbs 24:27, "Prepare thy work without, and make it fit for thyself in the field; and afterwards build thine house." Again, preparation is vital.
If we do not make preparation then we will find ourselves in a sorry state of being. Look at Proverbs 24:31-32, "And, lo, it was all grown over with thorns, and nettles had covered the face thereof, and the stone wall thereof was broken down. Then I saw, and considered it well: I looked upon it, and received instruction." Learn from the mistakes of others. We have to prepare for what is ahead to the best of our ability and then let God work through us as He wills.
Are you prepared? Sure about that?
Nehemiah 13:1-3, "On that day they read in the book of Moses in the audience of the people; and therein was found written, that the Ammonite and the Moabite should not come into the congregation of God for ever; Because they met not the children of Israel with bread and with water, but hired Balaam against them, that he should curse them: howbeit our God turned the curse into a blessing. Now it came to pass, when they had heard the law, that they separated from Israel all the mixed multitude."
The other day I was sitting and thinking about how much better I felt when I was walking on the treadmill everyday. I thought i might go outside and walk around the neighborhood. I thought well I could walk to the door between the garage and the laundry room and begin to stretch before taking my walk. I soon decided against it with so many excuses. Sound familiar?
You see it was not taking a walk that I was against, really. I just did not want to do what I needed to prepare to go walk. Actually I just wanted to walk out into the garage and magically the exercise would be done for me. Lazy, I know.
I did not want to take the time to prepare for the task ahead of me. This brings about so many problems. Someone once said, "Prior planning prevents potentially poor performance." Say that three (3) times fast.
In our Scripture for today the people were listening to the Word of God being read. They were making preparation. That is always a good place to start. By reading God's word you get your marching orders for the day.
What if you found yourself in Nehemiah's place in Nehemiah 13:11, "Then contended I with the rulers, and said, Why is the house of God forsaken? And I gathered them together, and set them in their place." If you did not prepare you would struggle with the battle at hand. Preparation is vitally important. Now, on the other hand we have to rely upon God to work through us; but, He wants us to prepare. This way the Holy Spirit has something to work with. There is ammunition in the bunker that He can bring to your memory as needed.
The wisest man said in Proverbs 24:27, "Prepare thy work without, and make it fit for thyself in the field; and afterwards build thine house." Again, preparation is vital.
If we do not make preparation then we will find ourselves in a sorry state of being. Look at Proverbs 24:31-32, "And, lo, it was all grown over with thorns, and nettles had covered the face thereof, and the stone wall thereof was broken down. Then I saw, and considered it well: I looked upon it, and received instruction." Learn from the mistakes of others. We have to prepare for what is ahead to the best of our ability and then let God work through us as He wills.
Are you prepared? Sure about that?
Sunday, May 23, 2010
May 23, 2010
Today's reading: Nehemiah 8, 9, 10; Psalm 23, 53, 83, 113, 143; Proverbs 23
Nehemiah 9:20, "Thou gavest also thy good spirit to instruct them, and withheldest not thy manna from their mouth, and gavest them water for their thirst."
To this day I am reminded of one of my least shining moments in life. I remember well how I was preaching at the Church we were attending at the time. I wanted to relate to the people how God had spoken to me and given me that message that I had prepared for that evening. I said, "Picture this. I was standing in the shower with shampoo running out of my hair." All of a sudden the entire Church erupted into laughter. I had no idea what I had just said. I had just told the entire Church to picture me naked, in the shower with shampoo running out of my hair. Oops! My wife asked me at dinner after the service if I realized what I said. I had no idea.
Now, I know that was not from the Holy Spirit. I am thankful for the times that I have stood to preach or teach God's word and He was manifested through it. It is such an awesome experience to be used by God and to know that He is in control. It is times like this that you see things happen that please God.
I remember one time early on in my ministry when someone trusted Christ as an indirect result of the message that God had given me. One of the teens from the Church was under conviction and another teenager talked with him after the service and he trust Christ as his Saviour. Praise God!
The Scripture today reminded me how that I do not do things on my own. I need to do them in the power of the Holy Spirit. In the book of Acts we are told that we will receive power after the Holy Spirit comes on us (Acts 1:8). The word power in that verse is the Greek word from which we get our English word dynamite. We can be empowered by someone that is all powerful.
If we yield ourselves to the Holy Spirit we can live a life that God will bless. Look at Nehemiah 10:28-29, "And the rest of the people, the priests, the Levites, the porters, the singers, the Nethinims, and all they that had separated themselves from the people of the lands unto the law of God, their wives, their sons, and their daughters, every one having knowledge, and having understanding; They clave to their brethren, their nobles, and entered into a curse, and into an oath, to walk in God's law, which was given by Moses the servant of God, and to observe and do all the commandments of the LORD our Lord, and his judgments and his statutes;" God will work through us if we will yield ourselves to the leading of the Holy Spirit.
Who is leading you?
Nehemiah 9:20, "Thou gavest also thy good spirit to instruct them, and withheldest not thy manna from their mouth, and gavest them water for their thirst."
To this day I am reminded of one of my least shining moments in life. I remember well how I was preaching at the Church we were attending at the time. I wanted to relate to the people how God had spoken to me and given me that message that I had prepared for that evening. I said, "Picture this. I was standing in the shower with shampoo running out of my hair." All of a sudden the entire Church erupted into laughter. I had no idea what I had just said. I had just told the entire Church to picture me naked, in the shower with shampoo running out of my hair. Oops! My wife asked me at dinner after the service if I realized what I said. I had no idea.
Now, I know that was not from the Holy Spirit. I am thankful for the times that I have stood to preach or teach God's word and He was manifested through it. It is such an awesome experience to be used by God and to know that He is in control. It is times like this that you see things happen that please God.
I remember one time early on in my ministry when someone trusted Christ as an indirect result of the message that God had given me. One of the teens from the Church was under conviction and another teenager talked with him after the service and he trust Christ as his Saviour. Praise God!
The Scripture today reminded me how that I do not do things on my own. I need to do them in the power of the Holy Spirit. In the book of Acts we are told that we will receive power after the Holy Spirit comes on us (Acts 1:8). The word power in that verse is the Greek word from which we get our English word dynamite. We can be empowered by someone that is all powerful.
If we yield ourselves to the Holy Spirit we can live a life that God will bless. Look at Nehemiah 10:28-29, "And the rest of the people, the priests, the Levites, the porters, the singers, the Nethinims, and all they that had separated themselves from the people of the lands unto the law of God, their wives, their sons, and their daughters, every one having knowledge, and having understanding; They clave to their brethren, their nobles, and entered into a curse, and into an oath, to walk in God's law, which was given by Moses the servant of God, and to observe and do all the commandments of the LORD our Lord, and his judgments and his statutes;" God will work through us if we will yield ourselves to the leading of the Holy Spirit.
Who is leading you?
Saturday, May 22, 2010
May 22, 2010
Today's reading: Nehemiah 5, 6, 7; Psalm 22, 52, 82, 112, 132; Proverbs 22
Nehemiah 6:2-3, "That Sanballat and Geshem sent unto me, saying, Come, let us meet together in some one of the villages in the plain of Ono. But they thought to do me mischief. And I sent messengers unto them, saying, I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down: why should the work cease, whilst I leave it, and come down to you?"
I was thinking about some of the men who I have called my Pastor over the years. I have had the privilege of having some of the greatest men in the Christian realm as my Pastor over the years. I still to this day have great respect for these men. There are some men that I don't not have any respect for at all. God knows. One thing I know is that all of these men have done their best to give me what they believed to be godly counsel from God's word. For this I am truly grateful.
There have been those in my life who have done their best to stop me or even slow me down. Sometimes it has worked and sometimes it has not. God forgive me for not being fervent in my service to You!
I remember hearing a sermon several years back titled something like, "What Will it Take to Stop You?" I don't want to think on this line. However; I need to build a defense against those things that the enemy of our soul throws out there to stop me and you.
Look at Nehemiah 6:10-12, "Afterward I came unto the house of Shemaiah the son of Delaiah the son of Mehetabeel, who was shut up; and he said, Let us meet together in the house of God, within the temple, and let us shut the doors of the temple: for they will come to slay thee; yea, in the night will they come to slay thee. And I said, Should such a man as I flee? and who is there, that, being as I am, would go into the temple to save his life? I will not go in. And, lo, I perceived that God had not sent him; but that he pronounced this prophecy against me: for Tobiah and Sanballat had hired him." This is the second time recorded in chapter six (6) alone that someone has tried to get Nehemiah off track or to stop the work.
So, friend, what will it take to stop you? Are you sure about that?
Nehemiah 6:2-3, "That Sanballat and Geshem sent unto me, saying, Come, let us meet together in some one of the villages in the plain of Ono. But they thought to do me mischief. And I sent messengers unto them, saying, I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down: why should the work cease, whilst I leave it, and come down to you?"
I was thinking about some of the men who I have called my Pastor over the years. I have had the privilege of having some of the greatest men in the Christian realm as my Pastor over the years. I still to this day have great respect for these men. There are some men that I don't not have any respect for at all. God knows. One thing I know is that all of these men have done their best to give me what they believed to be godly counsel from God's word. For this I am truly grateful.
There have been those in my life who have done their best to stop me or even slow me down. Sometimes it has worked and sometimes it has not. God forgive me for not being fervent in my service to You!
I remember hearing a sermon several years back titled something like, "What Will it Take to Stop You?" I don't want to think on this line. However; I need to build a defense against those things that the enemy of our soul throws out there to stop me and you.
Look at Nehemiah 6:10-12, "Afterward I came unto the house of Shemaiah the son of Delaiah the son of Mehetabeel, who was shut up; and he said, Let us meet together in the house of God, within the temple, and let us shut the doors of the temple: for they will come to slay thee; yea, in the night will they come to slay thee. And I said, Should such a man as I flee? and who is there, that, being as I am, would go into the temple to save his life? I will not go in. And, lo, I perceived that God had not sent him; but that he pronounced this prophecy against me: for Tobiah and Sanballat had hired him." This is the second time recorded in chapter six (6) alone that someone has tried to get Nehemiah off track or to stop the work.
So, friend, what will it take to stop you? Are you sure about that?
Friday, May 21, 2010
May 21, 2010
Today's reading: Nehemiah 2, 3, 4; Psalm 21, 51, 81, 111, 141; Proverbs 21
Psalm 51:18, "Do good in thy good pleasure unto Zion: build thou the walls of Jerusalem."
Today's verse jumped out at me while I was reading through the book of Nehemiah. I know, how did that happen? Well the Holy Spirit brought it to me feeble mind. I would like to concentrate today on the last part of the verse, 'build thou the walls of Jerusalem." I think we can learn some thing from Nehemiah. Let's take a look.
If we are going to rebuild we are going to have to make intercession. Look at Nehemiah 2:4, "Then the king said unto me, For what dost thou make request? So I prayed to the God of heaven." There are far too many people out there in the realm of Christianity that is trying to do their own thing their own way. We need to be people of prayer. We must seek God's will so that it can be done God's way. Prayer is one of the most important tools in the Christian's tool box.
If we are going to rebuild were have to make an inspection. Nehemiah 2:13, "And I went out by night by the gate of the valley, even before the dragon well, and to the dung port, and viewed the walls of Jerusalem, which were broken down, and the gates thereof were consumed with fire." Nehemiah was going around the city and getting a true vision of the work to be done. I don't mean we need to look and see if we can complete it or not. Leave that to God if He has called you to the work. Take a look around and see if you will need the help of others and seek it. By surveying the city we see that Nehemiah got a deeper burden for the work as he surveyed the city setting in ruins.
If we are going to rebuild we will have to make interest in rebuilding. People must see the need to rebuild. Nehemiah 2:17-18, "Then said I unto them, Ye see the distress that we are in, how Jerusalem lieth waste, and the gates thereof are burned with fire: come, and let us build up the wall of Jerusalem, that we be no more a reproach. Then I told them of the hand of my God which was good upon me; as also the king's words that he had spoken unto me. And they said, Let us rise up and build. So they strengthened their hands for this good work." I remember reading a book on leadership and the author said if you are in a position of leadership and you see this as a journey with others following you and you take a look back and nobody is following you then you are just out for a walk. (This was not even close to an exact quote.)
If we are going to rebuild we must have inspiration. Nehemiah 2:20, "Then answered I them, and said unto them, The God of heaven, he will prosper us; therefore we his servants will arise and build: but ye have no portion, nor right, nor memorial, in Jerusalem." Sometimes it is hard to motivate people. Notice the motivation here. If you don't help then you do not belong. Wow! That was real motivation. This will come as they see the burden for the work and let God speak to them about the work.
When all of this comes in line then you see what happens in Nehemiah 4:17, "They which builded on the wall, and they that bare burdens, with those that laded, every one with one of his hands wrought in the work, and with the other hand held a weapon." May God enable each one of us to do His work His way.
So how are you doing?
Psalm 51:18, "Do good in thy good pleasure unto Zion: build thou the walls of Jerusalem."
Today's verse jumped out at me while I was reading through the book of Nehemiah. I know, how did that happen? Well the Holy Spirit brought it to me feeble mind. I would like to concentrate today on the last part of the verse, 'build thou the walls of Jerusalem." I think we can learn some thing from Nehemiah. Let's take a look.
If we are going to rebuild we are going to have to make intercession. Look at Nehemiah 2:4, "Then the king said unto me, For what dost thou make request? So I prayed to the God of heaven." There are far too many people out there in the realm of Christianity that is trying to do their own thing their own way. We need to be people of prayer. We must seek God's will so that it can be done God's way. Prayer is one of the most important tools in the Christian's tool box.
If we are going to rebuild were have to make an inspection. Nehemiah 2:13, "And I went out by night by the gate of the valley, even before the dragon well, and to the dung port, and viewed the walls of Jerusalem, which were broken down, and the gates thereof were consumed with fire." Nehemiah was going around the city and getting a true vision of the work to be done. I don't mean we need to look and see if we can complete it or not. Leave that to God if He has called you to the work. Take a look around and see if you will need the help of others and seek it. By surveying the city we see that Nehemiah got a deeper burden for the work as he surveyed the city setting in ruins.
If we are going to rebuild we will have to make interest in rebuilding. People must see the need to rebuild. Nehemiah 2:17-18, "Then said I unto them, Ye see the distress that we are in, how Jerusalem lieth waste, and the gates thereof are burned with fire: come, and let us build up the wall of Jerusalem, that we be no more a reproach. Then I told them of the hand of my God which was good upon me; as also the king's words that he had spoken unto me. And they said, Let us rise up and build. So they strengthened their hands for this good work." I remember reading a book on leadership and the author said if you are in a position of leadership and you see this as a journey with others following you and you take a look back and nobody is following you then you are just out for a walk. (This was not even close to an exact quote.)
If we are going to rebuild we must have inspiration. Nehemiah 2:20, "Then answered I them, and said unto them, The God of heaven, he will prosper us; therefore we his servants will arise and build: but ye have no portion, nor right, nor memorial, in Jerusalem." Sometimes it is hard to motivate people. Notice the motivation here. If you don't help then you do not belong. Wow! That was real motivation. This will come as they see the burden for the work and let God speak to them about the work.
When all of this comes in line then you see what happens in Nehemiah 4:17, "They which builded on the wall, and they that bare burdens, with those that laded, every one with one of his hands wrought in the work, and with the other hand held a weapon." May God enable each one of us to do His work His way.
So how are you doing?
Thursday, May 20, 2010
May 20, 2010
Today's reading: Ezra 9, 10; Nehemiah 1; Psalm 20, 50, 80, 110, 140; Proverbs 20
Ezra 9:13, "And after all that is come upon us for our evil deeds, and for our great trespass, seeing that thou our God hast punished us less than our iniquities deserve, and hast given us such deliverance as this;"
Many years ago I received a new BB gun for my birthday. It was a Crossman 760. You had to pump it up to get it to shoot as there was no CO2 cartridge to propel the projectile.
I remember the day that I took my BB gun out into the backyard and set it on the fence of our side yard and put a neighbor boy in my sights. I had pumped and pumped that thing up. I pulled the trigger and heard the rush of air that sent the BB flying. I remember hearing Neal yell in pain. Most of all I remember hearing the knock at the front door when Mrs. Robinson came over. Still today my stomach sinks thinking about it.
My punishment was pretty severe. I lost my BB gun for an entire year and I had to apologize to Neal. Oh yes, there was the spanking also. Even though I felt the punishment fit the crime, I am sure that it did not really. Oh, Neal lived and has grown up to be an adult. If that had happened today I would probably be writing this from a prison cell at the very least. God is merciful!
The reason for the trip down not so pleasant memory lane is because I was caught by the phrase, "God hast punished us less than our iniquities deserve,". If we got what we deserve it would be hell; but, because of the love and mercy of God we can be spared that reality. The thing is that you must know Him personally. It is my wish that you do. If you do not please get to know Him very soon. We are running out of time.
Ezra 9:13, "And after all that is come upon us for our evil deeds, and for our great trespass, seeing that thou our God hast punished us less than our iniquities deserve, and hast given us such deliverance as this;"
Many years ago I received a new BB gun for my birthday. It was a Crossman 760. You had to pump it up to get it to shoot as there was no CO2 cartridge to propel the projectile.
I remember the day that I took my BB gun out into the backyard and set it on the fence of our side yard and put a neighbor boy in my sights. I had pumped and pumped that thing up. I pulled the trigger and heard the rush of air that sent the BB flying. I remember hearing Neal yell in pain. Most of all I remember hearing the knock at the front door when Mrs. Robinson came over. Still today my stomach sinks thinking about it.
My punishment was pretty severe. I lost my BB gun for an entire year and I had to apologize to Neal. Oh yes, there was the spanking also. Even though I felt the punishment fit the crime, I am sure that it did not really. Oh, Neal lived and has grown up to be an adult. If that had happened today I would probably be writing this from a prison cell at the very least. God is merciful!
The reason for the trip down not so pleasant memory lane is because I was caught by the phrase, "God hast punished us less than our iniquities deserve,". If we got what we deserve it would be hell; but, because of the love and mercy of God we can be spared that reality. The thing is that you must know Him personally. It is my wish that you do. If you do not please get to know Him very soon. We are running out of time.
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
May 19, 2010
Today's reading: Ezra 6, 7, 8; Psalm 19, 49, 79, 109, 139; Proverbs 9
Ezra 6:1-3, "Then Darius the king made a decree, and search was made in the house of the rolls, where the treasures were laid up in Babylon. And there was found at Achmetha, in the palace that is in the province of the Medes, a roll, and therein was a record thus written: In the first year of Cyrus the king the same Cyrus the king made a decree concerning the house of God at Jerusalem, Let the house be builded, the place where they offered sacrifices, and let the foundations thereof be strongly laid; the height thereof threescore cubits, and the breadth thereof threescore cubits;"
I went and visited a friend a couple weeks ago. I had not stopped in and visited him for a while. When I arrived at his house he was getting ready to go fishing the next day. We had a good visit. I enjoy talking about fishing. I don't know nearly as much about it as I would like to know. As we talked he would explain to me what he was doing and why he was doing it. He even explained why he did it in the way he did it. I learned a lot. All I need now is a boat. Ha!
I remember how he poured over every detail and made sure that he had tools in case the boat broke down in the middle of the lake. He put certain lures in certain boxes and then put them in certain compartments in the boat. There was a method to everything he did. It was a great amount of preparation.
However, it was all for naught. As my friend began to navigate the idle zone wanting to get to the end so he could open up the motor and let his boat skim across the water and tremendous speeds it sputtered and died. Yes, it died. All the work he had done the day before was for naught!
I am glad it is not this way with the Lord. If we prepare to meet Him and do it His way then we are assured that He will be there right on time. Every time!
Look at Ezra 7:10, "For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the law of the LORD, and to do it, and to teach in Israel statutes and judgments." Here is where we need to live. We need to constantly be preparing our heart to seek the Lord. Amen!
So, how is your preparation coming along?
Ezra 6:1-3, "Then Darius the king made a decree, and search was made in the house of the rolls, where the treasures were laid up in Babylon. And there was found at Achmetha, in the palace that is in the province of the Medes, a roll, and therein was a record thus written: In the first year of Cyrus the king the same Cyrus the king made a decree concerning the house of God at Jerusalem, Let the house be builded, the place where they offered sacrifices, and let the foundations thereof be strongly laid; the height thereof threescore cubits, and the breadth thereof threescore cubits;"
I went and visited a friend a couple weeks ago. I had not stopped in and visited him for a while. When I arrived at his house he was getting ready to go fishing the next day. We had a good visit. I enjoy talking about fishing. I don't know nearly as much about it as I would like to know. As we talked he would explain to me what he was doing and why he was doing it. He even explained why he did it in the way he did it. I learned a lot. All I need now is a boat. Ha!
I remember how he poured over every detail and made sure that he had tools in case the boat broke down in the middle of the lake. He put certain lures in certain boxes and then put them in certain compartments in the boat. There was a method to everything he did. It was a great amount of preparation.
However, it was all for naught. As my friend began to navigate the idle zone wanting to get to the end so he could open up the motor and let his boat skim across the water and tremendous speeds it sputtered and died. Yes, it died. All the work he had done the day before was for naught!
I am glad it is not this way with the Lord. If we prepare to meet Him and do it His way then we are assured that He will be there right on time. Every time!
Look at Ezra 7:10, "For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the law of the LORD, and to do it, and to teach in Israel statutes and judgments." Here is where we need to live. We need to constantly be preparing our heart to seek the Lord. Amen!
So, how is your preparation coming along?
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
May 18, 2010
Today's reading: Ezra 3, 4, 5; Psalm 18, 48, 78, 108, 138; Proverbs 18
Psalm 138:2, "I will worship toward thy holy temple, and praise thy name for thy lovingkindness and for thy truth: for thou hast magnified thy word above all thy name."
Today there is attack after attack on the Word of God. Man tries so hard to discredit the Scriptures by many different means. They have a wrong view of God's Word. This is so sad because It has all the answers to all of life's trials and tribulations.
God has put such a high price tag on the Scriptures that our text says, "for thou hast magnified thy word above all thy name." That is putting the Scriptures in a very high place. They are to be highly esteemed. What is your attitude toward the Scriptures? Is it just another book to you? I hope not. God intends you and I to hold His Word in high regard and to treat It for what It is; The Word of God.
The other day I was spending some time in prayer and God spoke to me and gave me two (2) new sermons. This always thrills my soul when this happens. I think He did that because I had filled my heart with His Word the night before in a revival meeting at another Church. Yes, we went to Church on Monday night too. Radical, I know. The words just flowed on to the paper I had in front of me. It came from the Holy Spirit ministering the Word of God to my heart and then on the paper. What an awesome thing to be used of God this way.
What is your attitude toward the Scriptures today?
Psalm 138:2, "I will worship toward thy holy temple, and praise thy name for thy lovingkindness and for thy truth: for thou hast magnified thy word above all thy name."
Today there is attack after attack on the Word of God. Man tries so hard to discredit the Scriptures by many different means. They have a wrong view of God's Word. This is so sad because It has all the answers to all of life's trials and tribulations.
God has put such a high price tag on the Scriptures that our text says, "for thou hast magnified thy word above all thy name." That is putting the Scriptures in a very high place. They are to be highly esteemed. What is your attitude toward the Scriptures? Is it just another book to you? I hope not. God intends you and I to hold His Word in high regard and to treat It for what It is; The Word of God.
The other day I was spending some time in prayer and God spoke to me and gave me two (2) new sermons. This always thrills my soul when this happens. I think He did that because I had filled my heart with His Word the night before in a revival meeting at another Church. Yes, we went to Church on Monday night too. Radical, I know. The words just flowed on to the paper I had in front of me. It came from the Holy Spirit ministering the Word of God to my heart and then on the paper. What an awesome thing to be used of God this way.
What is your attitude toward the Scriptures today?
Monday, May 17, 2010
May 17, 2010
Today's reading: II Chronicles 36; Ezra 1, 2; Psalm 17, 47, 77, 107, 137; Proverbs 17
Psalm 17:15, "As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness."
I remember growing up and my parents divorced. I remember attending the wedding of my father and his second wife. As I stood in a line (the receiving line I think) a man came by and shook my hand. When he did he told me he was glad to meet David's brother. I told him to keep trying that he still had not met his brother because I was his son. I get a big laugh out of this every time I think about it. When I grow a beard my dad and I look very much alike.
I remember over the years; especially as I am getting older, that I sometimes say or do things that others have said or done over the years. When you work side by side with someone for a long time you begin to pick up their little things. One time I worked at a job where I answered the phone. I was told that I sounded so much like the other guy that worked with me that people would say both of our first names so they would get it right. It was funny.
The most important Person in life that we need to emulate is Jesus Christ. We need to read our Bible and spend so much time in prayer that we begin to think like Jesus and we begin to act like Jesus. We should not be satisfied; as our Scripture says, until we "awake, with thy likeness".
So who do you look like?
Psalm 17:15, "As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness."
I remember growing up and my parents divorced. I remember attending the wedding of my father and his second wife. As I stood in a line (the receiving line I think) a man came by and shook my hand. When he did he told me he was glad to meet David's brother. I told him to keep trying that he still had not met his brother because I was his son. I get a big laugh out of this every time I think about it. When I grow a beard my dad and I look very much alike.
I remember over the years; especially as I am getting older, that I sometimes say or do things that others have said or done over the years. When you work side by side with someone for a long time you begin to pick up their little things. One time I worked at a job where I answered the phone. I was told that I sounded so much like the other guy that worked with me that people would say both of our first names so they would get it right. It was funny.
The most important Person in life that we need to emulate is Jesus Christ. We need to read our Bible and spend so much time in prayer that we begin to think like Jesus and we begin to act like Jesus. We should not be satisfied; as our Scripture says, until we "awake, with thy likeness".
So who do you look like?
Sunday, May 16, 2010
May 16, 2010
Today's reading: II Chronicles 33, 34, 35; Psalm 16, 46, 76, 106, 136; Proverbs 16
II Chronicles 33:12-13, "And when he was in affliction, he besought the LORD his God, and humbled himself greatly before the God of his fathers, And prayed unto him: and he was intreated of him, and heard his supplication, and brought him again to Jerusalem into his kingdom. Then Manasseh knew that the LORD he was God."
I received an e-mail earlier that told about the possibility of a muslim mosque being built at the site of ground zero in New York. This is a slap in the face to the (343) three hundred forty three firefighters, paramedics and police officers that gave their lives that day. Not to mention all the civilian casualties. That day is September 11, 2001. This is the day that muslim extremists took over two airliners and forced them to be flow into the world trade center towers in New York and another one was ran into the ground in Pennsylvania where passengers overtook the muslin extremist pilots. This is where Scott Beemer said, "Let's roll!" and made this a very popular saying.
The thought of having this abomination built on ground zero made me sick and it should you also. We need to wake up here in America because if we don't our freedoms are going to be gone and we will be bowing to Alli-BooBoo.
Maybe, this is what America needs to bring her back to a place that she will seek God. I don't want to think like that; but, let's just think for a minute. In the New Testament the Church flourished when she was persecuted. If we don't wake up and turn back to God we are in for a rude awakening and soon.
We need to be like king Josiah in II Chronicles 34:19, "And it came to pass, when the king had heard the words of the law, that he rent his clothes." King Josiah had the proper response here in this passage of Scripture. This should serve as a guide for you and I in how we need to get right with God. I pray that we all do before it is eternally too late.
So, how are you doing?
II Chronicles 33:12-13, "And when he was in affliction, he besought the LORD his God, and humbled himself greatly before the God of his fathers, And prayed unto him: and he was intreated of him, and heard his supplication, and brought him again to Jerusalem into his kingdom. Then Manasseh knew that the LORD he was God."
I received an e-mail earlier that told about the possibility of a muslim mosque being built at the site of ground zero in New York. This is a slap in the face to the (343) three hundred forty three firefighters, paramedics and police officers that gave their lives that day. Not to mention all the civilian casualties. That day is September 11, 2001. This is the day that muslim extremists took over two airliners and forced them to be flow into the world trade center towers in New York and another one was ran into the ground in Pennsylvania where passengers overtook the muslin extremist pilots. This is where Scott Beemer said, "Let's roll!" and made this a very popular saying.
The thought of having this abomination built on ground zero made me sick and it should you also. We need to wake up here in America because if we don't our freedoms are going to be gone and we will be bowing to Alli-BooBoo.
Maybe, this is what America needs to bring her back to a place that she will seek God. I don't want to think like that; but, let's just think for a minute. In the New Testament the Church flourished when she was persecuted. If we don't wake up and turn back to God we are in for a rude awakening and soon.
We need to be like king Josiah in II Chronicles 34:19, "And it came to pass, when the king had heard the words of the law, that he rent his clothes." King Josiah had the proper response here in this passage of Scripture. This should serve as a guide for you and I in how we need to get right with God. I pray that we all do before it is eternally too late.
So, how are you doing?
Saturday, May 15, 2010
May 15, 2010
Today's reading: II Chronicles 30, 31, 32; Psalm 15, 45, 75, 105, 135; Proverbs 15
II Chronicles 30:10, "So the posts passed from city to city through the country of Ephraim and Manasseh even unto Zebulun: but they laughed them to scorn, and mocked them."
I have been taking some photography classes here locally trying to boost my experience and skill level. We went to the county seat today to shoot pictures of the courthouse and the square. I thought it would be completely boring. Well, to my surprise there was a geranium festival going on today. This gave us a lot more subject matter.
It was a big step for me to go there and get my camera out. You would think after photographing for five (5) years or so that I would be over the "What will people say" stage and just go on and do it. It did ease things for me because there were others that went along. I did enjoy the time there and I think I took some nice pictures. I did not see any that I thought would be award winning. Such is life.
I thought about the "posts" of our text today. They went from city to city taking news. The Scriptures tell us, "but they laughed them to scorn, and mocked them." How sad. This was exactly the reason that I was a little nervous about the outing today. I did not want to be ridiculed for my hobby. Actually, people were very nice and explained about each of the wares they were peddling.
How does this apply to our Christian life today? Simple, really. We are just like the "posts" of that day. We have a message that we need to get out or tell. We must not be ashamed to publish that message to this world.
So, how are you doing?
II Chronicles 30:10, "So the posts passed from city to city through the country of Ephraim and Manasseh even unto Zebulun: but they laughed them to scorn, and mocked them."
I have been taking some photography classes here locally trying to boost my experience and skill level. We went to the county seat today to shoot pictures of the courthouse and the square. I thought it would be completely boring. Well, to my surprise there was a geranium festival going on today. This gave us a lot more subject matter.
It was a big step for me to go there and get my camera out. You would think after photographing for five (5) years or so that I would be over the "What will people say" stage and just go on and do it. It did ease things for me because there were others that went along. I did enjoy the time there and I think I took some nice pictures. I did not see any that I thought would be award winning. Such is life.
I thought about the "posts" of our text today. They went from city to city taking news. The Scriptures tell us, "but they laughed them to scorn, and mocked them." How sad. This was exactly the reason that I was a little nervous about the outing today. I did not want to be ridiculed for my hobby. Actually, people were very nice and explained about each of the wares they were peddling.
How does this apply to our Christian life today? Simple, really. We are just like the "posts" of that day. We have a message that we need to get out or tell. We must not be ashamed to publish that message to this world.
So, how are you doing?
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