From: Our Daily Bread Ministries
Ephesians 6:11 "Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand firm against the tactics of the devil."
Paul the apostle, a spiritual warrior, testified as he came to the end of his embattled life: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Tim. 4:7).
Years earlier, that valiant soldier of Jesus Christ had pleaded with his fellow Christians to put on the armor of God that would enable them to stand firm in their conflict with the powers of darkness. He knew the vital importance of donning that armor every day. In his service for Christ, Paul had been whipped, beaten, stoned, and imprisoned, and was often hungry, thirsty, cold, and weary (2 Cor. 11:22-28).
Strapping on the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shoes of peace, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit (God’s Word) enabled Paul to “quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one” (Eph. 6:14-17). With God’s armor we too are fully covered and prepared for battle.
The prince of darkness with his hosts of demonic helpers is an incredibly crafty foe. That’s why we need to guard against his deceitful devices and put on the whole armor of God every day. When we do, like Paul when he was nearing the end of his days, we can be confident that we have “kept the faith.”
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Let Us Pray
From: Wisdom For Each Day - Billy Graham
2 Chronicles 7:14 "If My people, upon whom My name has been pronounced, humble themselves and pray, and seek My presence and turn from their evil ways, I will hear them from Heaven and pardon their sins and revive their land."
A great crisis in American history came at the Constitutional Convention called in Philadelphia to ratify a constitution for the new country that was being born. The delegates got angry with one another, and because they couldn't resolve their conflicts, they couldn't agree on a thing and picked up their hats and coats and started to leave. Suddenly Benjamin Franklin spoke up.
"Wait a minute gentleman," he is reported to have said. "This country was conceived in faith in God. Many of us here believe in prayer. Let us get upon our knees and pray to Almighty God and see whether God shall give to us the answer to our dilemma."
Upon their knees those men went, and out of that prayer meeting came the immortal Constitution of the United States of America.
What dilemma in your nation...or in your life...is compelling you to get down on your knees and seek God's answer?
2 Chronicles 7:14 "If My people, upon whom My name has been pronounced, humble themselves and pray, and seek My presence and turn from their evil ways, I will hear them from Heaven and pardon their sins and revive their land."
A great crisis in American history came at the Constitutional Convention called in Philadelphia to ratify a constitution for the new country that was being born. The delegates got angry with one another, and because they couldn't resolve their conflicts, they couldn't agree on a thing and picked up their hats and coats and started to leave. Suddenly Benjamin Franklin spoke up.
"Wait a minute gentleman," he is reported to have said. "This country was conceived in faith in God. Many of us here believe in prayer. Let us get upon our knees and pray to Almighty God and see whether God shall give to us the answer to our dilemma."
Upon their knees those men went, and out of that prayer meeting came the immortal Constitution of the United States of America.
What dilemma in your nation...or in your life...is compelling you to get down on your knees and seek God's answer?
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
"Why Me?"
From: New Life Daily Devotion
Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know well the plans I have in mind for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare, not for woe! plans to give you a future full of hope."
It’s an age-old riddle: Why does God allow us to endure times of uncertainty and pain? After all, since we trust that God is all-powerful, and since we trust that His hand shapes our lives, why doesn’t He simply rescue us—and our loved ones—from all hardship and pain?
God’s Word teaches us again and again that He loves us and wants the best for us. And the Bible also teaches us that God is ever-present and always watchful. So why, we wonder, if God is really so concerned with every detail of our lives, does He permit us to endure emotions like grief, sadness, shame, or fear? And why does He allow tragic circumstances to invade the lives of good people? These questions perplex us, especially when times are tough.
On occasion, all of us face adversity, and throughout life, we all must endure life-changing personal losses that leave us breathless. When we pass through the dark valleys of life, we often ask, “Why me?” Sometimes, of course, the answer is obvious—sometimes we make mistakes, and we must pay for them. But on other occasions, when we have done nothing wrong, we wonder why God allows us to suffer.
Even when we cannot understand God’s plans, we must trust them. And even when we are impatient for our situations to improve, we must trust God’s timing. If we seek to live in accordance with His plan for our lives, we must continue to study His Word (in good times and bad), and we must be watchful for His signs, knowing that in time, He will lead us through the valleys, onward to the mountaintop.
So if you’re enduring tough times, don’t give up and don’t give in. God still has glorious plans for you. So keep your eyes and ears open . . . as well as your heart.
Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know well the plans I have in mind for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare, not for woe! plans to give you a future full of hope."
It’s an age-old riddle: Why does God allow us to endure times of uncertainty and pain? After all, since we trust that God is all-powerful, and since we trust that His hand shapes our lives, why doesn’t He simply rescue us—and our loved ones—from all hardship and pain?
God’s Word teaches us again and again that He loves us and wants the best for us. And the Bible also teaches us that God is ever-present and always watchful. So why, we wonder, if God is really so concerned with every detail of our lives, does He permit us to endure emotions like grief, sadness, shame, or fear? And why does He allow tragic circumstances to invade the lives of good people? These questions perplex us, especially when times are tough.
On occasion, all of us face adversity, and throughout life, we all must endure life-changing personal losses that leave us breathless. When we pass through the dark valleys of life, we often ask, “Why me?” Sometimes, of course, the answer is obvious—sometimes we make mistakes, and we must pay for them. But on other occasions, when we have done nothing wrong, we wonder why God allows us to suffer.
Even when we cannot understand God’s plans, we must trust them. And even when we are impatient for our situations to improve, we must trust God’s timing. If we seek to live in accordance with His plan for our lives, we must continue to study His Word (in good times and bad), and we must be watchful for His signs, knowing that in time, He will lead us through the valleys, onward to the mountaintop.
So if you’re enduring tough times, don’t give up and don’t give in. God still has glorious plans for you. So keep your eyes and ears open . . . as well as your heart.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Life Objective
From: The Purpose Driven Life Ministries
Proverbs 29:18 "Where there is no vision, the people perish: but happy is he who keeps the law."
Many people set goals, but few people ever set a Life Objective. Goals relate to separate parts of your life: your career, finances, family, retirement, etc. But a Life Objective sets the direction of your whole life.
Your Life Objective is the big picture. There are four tremendous benefits of thinking through and writing down a Life Objective:
1. It reduces frustration by simplifying decision-making. Every day you’re faced with many, often complex, choices. Having a Life Objective gives you a standard by which to evaluate which alternative is best for you.
2. It increases motivation. Your Life Objective should inspire you to get up in the morning and persist when you feel like giving up: “If people can’t see what God is doing, they stumble all over themselves; but when they attend to what He reveals, they are most blessed.” (Proverbs 29:18 amplified)
3. It allows concentration. Success is largely the result of focusing on one thing and doing it well. A Life Objective helps you focus your time, energy, and resources.
4. It attracts cooperation. It is an observable fact that when you decide exactly where you want to go in life, many other people will want to go along with you. People follow those who’ve clearly figured out who they are and what they are here for.
Proverbs 29:18 "Where there is no vision, the people perish: but happy is he who keeps the law."
Many people set goals, but few people ever set a Life Objective. Goals relate to separate parts of your life: your career, finances, family, retirement, etc. But a Life Objective sets the direction of your whole life.
Your Life Objective is the big picture. There are four tremendous benefits of thinking through and writing down a Life Objective:
1. It reduces frustration by simplifying decision-making. Every day you’re faced with many, often complex, choices. Having a Life Objective gives you a standard by which to evaluate which alternative is best for you.
2. It increases motivation. Your Life Objective should inspire you to get up in the morning and persist when you feel like giving up: “If people can’t see what God is doing, they stumble all over themselves; but when they attend to what He reveals, they are most blessed.” (Proverbs 29:18 amplified)
3. It allows concentration. Success is largely the result of focusing on one thing and doing it well. A Life Objective helps you focus your time, energy, and resources.
4. It attracts cooperation. It is an observable fact that when you decide exactly where you want to go in life, many other people will want to go along with you. People follow those who’ve clearly figured out who they are and what they are here for.
Monday, May 25, 2009
No New Opportunities - Simply Inactivity
From: Today God Is First - Os Hillman Ministries
Psalm 46:10 "Be still and know that I am God."
Do you find yourself in a place of nothingness? There is a time and place in our walk with God in which He sets us in a place of isolation and waiting. It is a place in which all past experiences are of no value. It is a time of such stillness that it can disturb the most faithful if we do not understand that He is the one who has brought us to this place for only a season. It is as if God has placed a wall around us. No new opportunities - simply inactivity.
During these times, God is calling us aside to fashion something new in us. It is a place of nothingness designed to call us to deeper roots of prayer and faith. It is not a comfortable place, especially for a task-driven workplace believer. Our nature cries out, "You must do something" while God is saying, "Be still and know that I am God." You know the signs that you have been brought into this place when He has removed many things from your life and you can't seem to change anything. Perhaps you are unemployed. Perhaps you are laid up with an illness.
Many people live a very planned and orchestrated life where they know almost everything that will happen. But for people in whom God is performing a deeper work, He brings them into a time of quietness that seems almost eerie. They cannot see what God is doing. They just know that He is doing a work that cannot be explained to themselves or to others.
Has God brought you to a place of nothingness? Be still and know that He really is God. When this happens, your nothingness will be turned into something you will value for the rest of your life.
Psalm 46:10 "Be still and know that I am God."
Do you find yourself in a place of nothingness? There is a time and place in our walk with God in which He sets us in a place of isolation and waiting. It is a place in which all past experiences are of no value. It is a time of such stillness that it can disturb the most faithful if we do not understand that He is the one who has brought us to this place for only a season. It is as if God has placed a wall around us. No new opportunities - simply inactivity.
During these times, God is calling us aside to fashion something new in us. It is a place of nothingness designed to call us to deeper roots of prayer and faith. It is not a comfortable place, especially for a task-driven workplace believer. Our nature cries out, "You must do something" while God is saying, "Be still and know that I am God." You know the signs that you have been brought into this place when He has removed many things from your life and you can't seem to change anything. Perhaps you are unemployed. Perhaps you are laid up with an illness.
Many people live a very planned and orchestrated life where they know almost everything that will happen. But for people in whom God is performing a deeper work, He brings them into a time of quietness that seems almost eerie. They cannot see what God is doing. They just know that He is doing a work that cannot be explained to themselves or to others.
Has God brought you to a place of nothingness? Be still and know that He really is God. When this happens, your nothingness will be turned into something you will value for the rest of your life.
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Keep Moving In The Right Direction
From: The Upper Room Devotional
1 Peter 1:15 "As He who called you is holy, be holy yourselves in all your conduct."
The discussion during Bible study focused on how we can show Christ to unbelievers through our daily living. "I used to have a fish on my car," one man said. "Then I got to thinking about how I drive, and I took it off."
After the laughter died down, his candid confession provoked sobering thoughts - at least for me. I must ask myself, If people judged Christianity by me, would they want an experience like mine?
How does my life stack up in showing love to others? Do I extend my love to strangers and those who are different? Love for the unlovely is the kind of love that counts. Showing love for someone who frustrates us might prevent an angry response to an aggressive driver. Unconditional love might turn an enemy into a friend.
Maybe what we were actually talking about in Bible study was holiness. That word makes me nervous, but avoiding unnecessary exposure to evil will help me keep my thoughts, language, attitude, and actions more like God wants them to be. Although I will never reach perfection, I want to keep moving in that direction - becoming like Christ.
1 Peter 1:15 "As He who called you is holy, be holy yourselves in all your conduct."
The discussion during Bible study focused on how we can show Christ to unbelievers through our daily living. "I used to have a fish on my car," one man said. "Then I got to thinking about how I drive, and I took it off."
After the laughter died down, his candid confession provoked sobering thoughts - at least for me. I must ask myself, If people judged Christianity by me, would they want an experience like mine?
How does my life stack up in showing love to others? Do I extend my love to strangers and those who are different? Love for the unlovely is the kind of love that counts. Showing love for someone who frustrates us might prevent an angry response to an aggressive driver. Unconditional love might turn an enemy into a friend.
Maybe what we were actually talking about in Bible study was holiness. That word makes me nervous, but avoiding unnecessary exposure to evil will help me keep my thoughts, language, attitude, and actions more like God wants them to be. Although I will never reach perfection, I want to keep moving in that direction - becoming like Christ.
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Is There Sufficient Evidence To Convict You?
From: The Upper Room Devotional
Galatians 5:22-23 "The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, humility, and self-control."
Today was my day off, and I spent much of the day doing errands in a nearby town. The drive home was busy, with stop-and-go traffic and construction delays. However, one driver was undeterred by the congestion. He darted in and out of traffic without using turn signals, sped through small towns, and passed other vehicles in no-passing zones.
While I was disturbed by his driving, I was also saddened to see a popular Christian symbol, a fish, prominently displayed on the back of his car. I thought, What does that man's driving say to others about Christians and the impact of our faith on the way we live?
Then I thought the same about myself. I profess to be a Christian, but does my life show it? Can others tell I am a Christian by how I drive, by how I treat others at home and at work, or by how I patiently or impatiently wait in line at the grocery store?
James 2:26 says that faith without deeds is dead. I want my faith in Christ to come alive in my actions so that everyone will see. If you were arrested for being a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you?
Galatians 5:22-23 "The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, humility, and self-control."
Today was my day off, and I spent much of the day doing errands in a nearby town. The drive home was busy, with stop-and-go traffic and construction delays. However, one driver was undeterred by the congestion. He darted in and out of traffic without using turn signals, sped through small towns, and passed other vehicles in no-passing zones.
While I was disturbed by his driving, I was also saddened to see a popular Christian symbol, a fish, prominently displayed on the back of his car. I thought, What does that man's driving say to others about Christians and the impact of our faith on the way we live?
Then I thought the same about myself. I profess to be a Christian, but does my life show it? Can others tell I am a Christian by how I drive, by how I treat others at home and at work, or by how I patiently or impatiently wait in line at the grocery store?
James 2:26 says that faith without deeds is dead. I want my faith in Christ to come alive in my actions so that everyone will see. If you were arrested for being a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you?
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Learn To Recognize God's Voice
From: The Word For Today - Bob Gass Ministries
To be successful in anything God calls you to do, you must be sensitive to the Holy Spirit within you and learn to recognize when He speaks to you through the Scriptures.
When the pressure is on and you're tempted to move too quickly you'll hear His voice saying: "… You shall not go out with haste… for the Lord will go before you, and the God of Israel will be your rear guard" (Isaiah 52:12). God's got you covered; front and back. How good is that?
When you're about to make a wrong turn or a bad decision He will remind you, "In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps" (Proverbs 16:9). When you don't have the ways and means to get the job done His voice will whisper: "The Lord will guide you continually, and satisfy your soul in drought, and strengthen your bones; you will be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail" (Isaiah 58:11).
You have an unfailing supply. When you run out of answers and don't know what to do He will reassure you: "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you" (Psalm 32:8). When the load becomes too heavy to carry you'll hear His voice saying, "Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall" (Psalm 55:22).
Hearing God's voice may mean you have to sacrifice lesser things and tune out other voices, but you must do it. Nothing, absolutely nothing, is more important than learning to recognize God's voice when He speaks to you.
To be successful in anything God calls you to do, you must be sensitive to the Holy Spirit within you and learn to recognize when He speaks to you through the Scriptures.
When the pressure is on and you're tempted to move too quickly you'll hear His voice saying: "… You shall not go out with haste… for the Lord will go before you, and the God of Israel will be your rear guard" (Isaiah 52:12). God's got you covered; front and back. How good is that?
When you're about to make a wrong turn or a bad decision He will remind you, "In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps" (Proverbs 16:9). When you don't have the ways and means to get the job done His voice will whisper: "The Lord will guide you continually, and satisfy your soul in drought, and strengthen your bones; you will be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail" (Isaiah 58:11).
You have an unfailing supply. When you run out of answers and don't know what to do He will reassure you: "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you" (Psalm 32:8). When the load becomes too heavy to carry you'll hear His voice saying, "Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall" (Psalm 55:22).
Hearing God's voice may mean you have to sacrifice lesser things and tune out other voices, but you must do it. Nothing, absolutely nothing, is more important than learning to recognize God's voice when He speaks to you.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
If Necessary, Recalculate Your Route
From: Today God Is First - Os Hillman Ministries
Luke 3:5 "The crooked roads shall become straight, the rough ways smooth."
I love the Global Positioning Systems (GPS) in the new cars. A voice comes on and tells me how far I have to go and when to turn. However, sometimes I get off course and the voice says: "Recalculating route." The GPS is telling me I have gone off course and it is now recalculating the route based on my wrong turn.
Sometimes we can make wrong turns in our spiritual lives. We think we are going the right direction only to discover it was never God's will to enter that relationship, make that business deal, hire that person - the examples are limitless.
There is an amazing thing about God. He can make our crooked places straight. He has an ability to make whatever blunder you make turn out right. It may mean there might be some consequences to those decisions, but He will always allow your actions to work together for good for those called according to His purpose if we repent and seek Him fully to make things right. These lessons can even contribute to greater wisdom in our lives if we learn from our mistakes.
God's omnipotence is always one step ahead of our incompetence. Do you think He knew you would make that misstep? Absolutely.
Do you think your life was planned even with that misstep figured in? Absolutely.
Isn't it comforting to know you cannot plan God out of the equation no matter how bad you mess up? He will always turn crooked places into straight places for those who are humble and contrite.
Do you need a crooked place straightened out today? Ask Him to straighten the course so you can flow in His perfect will for your life.
Luke 3:5 "The crooked roads shall become straight, the rough ways smooth."
I love the Global Positioning Systems (GPS) in the new cars. A voice comes on and tells me how far I have to go and when to turn. However, sometimes I get off course and the voice says: "Recalculating route." The GPS is telling me I have gone off course and it is now recalculating the route based on my wrong turn.
Sometimes we can make wrong turns in our spiritual lives. We think we are going the right direction only to discover it was never God's will to enter that relationship, make that business deal, hire that person - the examples are limitless.
There is an amazing thing about God. He can make our crooked places straight. He has an ability to make whatever blunder you make turn out right. It may mean there might be some consequences to those decisions, but He will always allow your actions to work together for good for those called according to His purpose if we repent and seek Him fully to make things right. These lessons can even contribute to greater wisdom in our lives if we learn from our mistakes.
God's omnipotence is always one step ahead of our incompetence. Do you think He knew you would make that misstep? Absolutely.
Do you think your life was planned even with that misstep figured in? Absolutely.
Isn't it comforting to know you cannot plan God out of the equation no matter how bad you mess up? He will always turn crooked places into straight places for those who are humble and contrite.
Do you need a crooked place straightened out today? Ask Him to straighten the course so you can flow in His perfect will for your life.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Change Your Outlook
From: The Word For Today - Bob Gass Ministries
Isaiah 30:21 "A voice shall sound in your ears: 'This is the way; walk in it.'"
Any time you step out in faith and try something, a voice within you will whisper, "You must be out of your mind. You're not capable of this. Those little accomplishments you had before were pure luck; you just happened to be in the right place at the right time. Now you're in over your head."
That voice will waken you in the middle of the night, sick to your stomach. You can hear it in every boardroom, living room and pavement. It's the voice of fear, and it doesn't play fair. It pulls the file on your past failures and preys on your deepest insecurities.
But there's another voice; God's! It says: "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand" (Isaiah 41:10).
Attuning your ears to God's voice doesn't mean your problems are automatically solved or that the other voice just fades away. No, it's more like having an intimate conversation with a close friend in a noisy, crowded place. There may be other voices around you but you don't hear them because you're so focused on what your friend is saying.
That's how it is with God's voice. Whether He speaks to you through the Scriptures, through a friend, or through your life's circumstances, He's always communicating with the heart that seeks Him. His promise to you is, "A voice shall sound in your ears, 'This is the way; walk in it."' One word from God, just one, can change your entire outlook. So today, take time to listen to God's voice.
Isaiah 30:21 "A voice shall sound in your ears: 'This is the way; walk in it.'"
Any time you step out in faith and try something, a voice within you will whisper, "You must be out of your mind. You're not capable of this. Those little accomplishments you had before were pure luck; you just happened to be in the right place at the right time. Now you're in over your head."
That voice will waken you in the middle of the night, sick to your stomach. You can hear it in every boardroom, living room and pavement. It's the voice of fear, and it doesn't play fair. It pulls the file on your past failures and preys on your deepest insecurities.
But there's another voice; God's! It says: "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand" (Isaiah 41:10).
Attuning your ears to God's voice doesn't mean your problems are automatically solved or that the other voice just fades away. No, it's more like having an intimate conversation with a close friend in a noisy, crowded place. There may be other voices around you but you don't hear them because you're so focused on what your friend is saying.
That's how it is with God's voice. Whether He speaks to you through the Scriptures, through a friend, or through your life's circumstances, He's always communicating with the heart that seeks Him. His promise to you is, "A voice shall sound in your ears, 'This is the way; walk in it."' One word from God, just one, can change your entire outlook. So today, take time to listen to God's voice.
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Let It Go
From: The Upper Room Daily Devotional
Luke 12:22-23 "Jesus said to his disciples: '. . . I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear. Life is more than food, and the body more than clothes.'"
I was sitting in church one Sunday morning, thinking about all the work I had to do. Even though I was happy to be there, I couldn't get these troublesome thoughts out of my head. I had just met one crucial deadline and was dreading additional challenges that I faced in the coming weeks. For some reason, my mind was obsessed with these concerns, and I wasn't able to worship.
I tried to tell myself that my concerns weren't that important and that they could wait until Monday. I kept struggling to give them over to God and to find some sense of relief.
Finally, a verse of scripture came to me as I sat in the pew, "Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself" (Matt. 6:34). I realized that I had become obsessed with my sense of responsibility and self-importance.
I finally understood that I wasn't really in control and that God would help me handle my work in the proper time. By letting go of my concerns, I could let God take care of them so that I could worship wholeheartedly - "in spirit and in truth" (John 4:23). - Douglas Brown
Luke 12:22-23 "Jesus said to his disciples: '. . . I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear. Life is more than food, and the body more than clothes.'"
I was sitting in church one Sunday morning, thinking about all the work I had to do. Even though I was happy to be there, I couldn't get these troublesome thoughts out of my head. I had just met one crucial deadline and was dreading additional challenges that I faced in the coming weeks. For some reason, my mind was obsessed with these concerns, and I wasn't able to worship.
I tried to tell myself that my concerns weren't that important and that they could wait until Monday. I kept struggling to give them over to God and to find some sense of relief.
Finally, a verse of scripture came to me as I sat in the pew, "Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself" (Matt. 6:34). I realized that I had become obsessed with my sense of responsibility and self-importance.
I finally understood that I wasn't really in control and that God would help me handle my work in the proper time. By letting go of my concerns, I could let God take care of them so that I could worship wholeheartedly - "in spirit and in truth" (John 4:23). - Douglas Brown
Friday, May 15, 2009
Making The Cut
From: Our Daily Bread Ministries
Matthew 4:19 "Jesus said to them, 'Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.'"
Every year, high-school seniors apply to their favorite universities and then watch the mailbox for the letter announcing their acceptance.
It was different for teens in New Testament times. Jewish boys would often attend rabbinical schools until age 13. Then only the best and brightest would be chosen to “follow” the local rabbi. This small, select group of disciples would go where he went and eat what he ate—modeling their lives after the rabbi. Those who didn’t make the cut would pick up a trade like carpentry, sheep-herding, or fishing.
Guys like Simon, Andrew, James, and John hadn’t made the cut. So instead of following the local rabbi, they were down by the docks, knee-deep in the family business. It’s interesting that Jesus sought out the men the local rabbi had rejected. Instead of targeting the best and brightest, Jesus offered His invitation, “Follow Me,” to ordinary run-of-the-mill fishermen. What an honor! They would become followers of the ultimate Rabbi.
Jesus extends the same honor to you and me—not because we are the best or brightest, but because He needs ordinary people like us to model His life and to lovingly rescue people on His behalf. So, follow Him and let Him make something of your life! - Joe Stowell
Matthew 4:19 "Jesus said to them, 'Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.'"
Every year, high-school seniors apply to their favorite universities and then watch the mailbox for the letter announcing their acceptance.
It was different for teens in New Testament times. Jewish boys would often attend rabbinical schools until age 13. Then only the best and brightest would be chosen to “follow” the local rabbi. This small, select group of disciples would go where he went and eat what he ate—modeling their lives after the rabbi. Those who didn’t make the cut would pick up a trade like carpentry, sheep-herding, or fishing.
Guys like Simon, Andrew, James, and John hadn’t made the cut. So instead of following the local rabbi, they were down by the docks, knee-deep in the family business. It’s interesting that Jesus sought out the men the local rabbi had rejected. Instead of targeting the best and brightest, Jesus offered His invitation, “Follow Me,” to ordinary run-of-the-mill fishermen. What an honor! They would become followers of the ultimate Rabbi.
Jesus extends the same honor to you and me—not because we are the best or brightest, but because He needs ordinary people like us to model His life and to lovingly rescue people on His behalf. So, follow Him and let Him make something of your life! - Joe Stowell
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
The Wisdom Of Solomon
2 Chronicles 7:14 "If My people, upon whom My name has been pronounced, humble themselves and pray, and seek My presence and turn from their evil ways, I will hear them from Heaven and pardon their sins and revive their land."
A woman, with a baby on her arms, storms into the office of her OB/GYN and very frightened tells him: "Doc, please help me I'm in serious trouble, my baby is not even 1 year old and I'm already pregnant again, and I don't want to have 2 babies so close together; I would like to wait 2 to 3 years ..."
The Doctor asks, "What do you want me to do?" She replies, "I want to interrupt this pregnancy and I need you to help me!"
After a few thoughts the Doctor says to her, "I think I just have the solution to your problem." The woman smiled as she thought the Doctor was ready to "help" her.
The Doctor then says, "Ok, in order to not have the 2 kids so close together, lets kill this baby you are holding in your arms, this way you will have plenty of time to rest before the other baby is born; there's no difference...we can dispose of either one of them... and even better there's no hazard to you at all."
The woman even more frightened said: "No! Doctor, to kill a baby is a crime!" (the unspeakable crime)
"I think the same way" the Doctor replied, "but you seemed so confident on your decision that I thought you wouldn't mind the suggestion."
At the end the woman was convinced that in fact there was no difference between killing the baby she was holding and the baby she was carrying.
A woman, with a baby on her arms, storms into the office of her OB/GYN and very frightened tells him: "Doc, please help me I'm in serious trouble, my baby is not even 1 year old and I'm already pregnant again, and I don't want to have 2 babies so close together; I would like to wait 2 to 3 years ..."
The Doctor asks, "What do you want me to do?" She replies, "I want to interrupt this pregnancy and I need you to help me!"
After a few thoughts the Doctor says to her, "I think I just have the solution to your problem." The woman smiled as she thought the Doctor was ready to "help" her.
The Doctor then says, "Ok, in order to not have the 2 kids so close together, lets kill this baby you are holding in your arms, this way you will have plenty of time to rest before the other baby is born; there's no difference...we can dispose of either one of them... and even better there's no hazard to you at all."
The woman even more frightened said: "No! Doctor, to kill a baby is a crime!" (the unspeakable crime)
"I think the same way" the Doctor replied, "but you seemed so confident on your decision that I thought you wouldn't mind the suggestion."
At the end the woman was convinced that in fact there was no difference between killing the baby she was holding and the baby she was carrying.
Monday, May 11, 2009
The Day Draws Near
From: Today God Is First - Os Hillman Ministries
Rom 1:24-25 "Therefore God gave them over in the sinful desires of their hearts to sexual impurity for the degrading of their bodies with one another. They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator-who is forever praised. Amen"
There is a story told about a frog in a kettle. The frog is placed in a kettle of warm water. The frog does not notice that the water temperature is being turned up gradually until it is too late. He dies from the heat of the water not realizing the danger he was in.
Societies are suffering from the "frog in the kettle" analogy. They make decisions that seem innocent enough, only to realize later the impact these decisions bring to their society. Whether the issue is gay rights, abortion, euthanasia, or simply a lack of spiritual influence over society, the changes seem logical to the unregenerate mind but reveals the moral compass of the nation has been removed.
In 1945, a book was written about the spiritual condition of England. "We are convinced that England will never be converted until the laity use the opportunities daily afforded by their various professions, crafts and occupations."* During the time of this writing, 30% of England attended church. Today, less than 7% attend church in England. It has become a secularized nation.
During this same time more than 40% of America was attending church. Today, less than 30% attend church and it is rapidly declining. The reason is that more and more believers are seeing the local church as irrelevant to the world they live in.
"We should not absent ourselves from the assembly, as some do, but encourage one another; and this all the more because you see that the Day draws near." (Hebrews 10:25)
Rom 1:24-25 "Therefore God gave them over in the sinful desires of their hearts to sexual impurity for the degrading of their bodies with one another. They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator-who is forever praised. Amen"
There is a story told about a frog in a kettle. The frog is placed in a kettle of warm water. The frog does not notice that the water temperature is being turned up gradually until it is too late. He dies from the heat of the water not realizing the danger he was in.
Societies are suffering from the "frog in the kettle" analogy. They make decisions that seem innocent enough, only to realize later the impact these decisions bring to their society. Whether the issue is gay rights, abortion, euthanasia, or simply a lack of spiritual influence over society, the changes seem logical to the unregenerate mind but reveals the moral compass of the nation has been removed.
In 1945, a book was written about the spiritual condition of England. "We are convinced that England will never be converted until the laity use the opportunities daily afforded by their various professions, crafts and occupations."* During the time of this writing, 30% of England attended church. Today, less than 7% attend church in England. It has become a secularized nation.
During this same time more than 40% of America was attending church. Today, less than 30% attend church and it is rapidly declining. The reason is that more and more believers are seeing the local church as irrelevant to the world they live in.
"We should not absent ourselves from the assembly, as some do, but encourage one another; and this all the more because you see that the Day draws near." (Hebrews 10:25)
Sunday, May 10, 2009
The Law Of Cause And Effect
From: Neil Anderson's Devotionals
Galatians 6:7 "Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, this he will also reap."
We deceive ourselves when we think we will not reap what we sow. As Christians we sometimes think we are exempt from this principle, but we are not. Even though our sins are forgiven, we will have to live with the results and consequences of our thoughts, words and actions whether good or bad.
Since I was privileged to be raised on a farm, I witnessed every year the law of cause and effect. If we didn't sow good seed in the spring, we didn't reap a good crop in the fall. If we didn't feed the sheep, they died. Many people have difficulty grasping this simple sow-and-reap truth.
Your life may be measured by what you reap, but it is determined by what you sow. For example, if you want a friend, be a friend. What you get out of life is what you put into it.
Galatians 6:7 "Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, this he will also reap."
We deceive ourselves when we think we will not reap what we sow. As Christians we sometimes think we are exempt from this principle, but we are not. Even though our sins are forgiven, we will have to live with the results and consequences of our thoughts, words and actions whether good or bad.
Since I was privileged to be raised on a farm, I witnessed every year the law of cause and effect. If we didn't sow good seed in the spring, we didn't reap a good crop in the fall. If we didn't feed the sheep, they died. Many people have difficulty grasping this simple sow-and-reap truth.
Your life may be measured by what you reap, but it is determined by what you sow. For example, if you want a friend, be a friend. What you get out of life is what you put into it.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Today Was A Great Day
Psalm 25:4-5 "Your ways, O Lord make known to me; teach me Your paths. Guide me in Your truth and teach me, for You are God my Savior, and for You I wait all the day."
Today's National Day of Prayer was a great day for ecumenism. Today we laid aside all doctrinal differences and joined together across the Nation...in small groups and in large groups, at breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and prayed for our Country, our Leaders, and for each other...to receive wisdom and guidance from God with an open heart and obedient spirit.
History teaches that when our Country's leaders were up against the wall, in their darkest hour...they knew where to turn...to Almighty God. Very good idea!
"As American troops stormed the beaches of Normandy, President Franklin Roosevelt called for our nation to unite in prayer. He also offered a prayer to prepare each citizen for the road ahead. "Let our hearts be stout, to wait out the long travail, to bear sorrows that may come, to impart our courage unto our sons wheresoever they may be. And, O Lord, give us faith. Give us faith in You." The victory that followed on June 6, 1944-also known as D-Day-began the march to Berlin. Eighteen months later, WWII was over and one of the world's greatest evils had been defeated. The prayers of a nation had been a powerful force.
Prayer has always been used in this country for guidance, protection and strength-even before we were a nation or a handful of colonies. The Pilgrims at Plymouth relied on prayer during their first and darkest winter. Our founding fathers also called for prayer during the Constitutional Congress. In their eyes, our recently created nation and freedoms were a direct gift from God. And being a gift from God, there was only one way to insure protection-through prayer.
President Abraham Lincoln knew this well. It was his belief that, "it is the duty of nations as well as men, to owe their dependence upon the overruling power of God." When it came to the fate of the nation, he practiced what he preached. Before the battle of Gettysburg, he turned to God in prayer. "I went to my room one day and I locked the door and got down on my knees before Almighty God and prayed to him mightily for victory at Gettysburg." Won by the Union, Gettysburg was one of the turning points in the war that ended slavery and kept the States united. Today the need for prayer is as great as ever.
Our Nation again faces battlefields, along with an epidemic of broken homes, violence, sexual immorality and social strife. As the heroes of our Nation did in the past, we must again bow our heads in prayer. We must ask the Lord to bless our leaders with wisdom and protection, and that we will have the fortitude to overcome the challenges at hand. If Roosevelt, the Pilgrims and Lincoln never underestimated the power of prayer, neither should we."
Yes, today was a great day for uniting in prayer. But...each and every day is a great day for prayer. "At every opportunity pray in the Spirit, using prayers and petitions of every sort. Pray constantly and attentively for all in the holy company." (Ephesians 6:18)
Just a thought. Every day, members of the United States Senate and House of Representatives, before the day's session begins, listen to a prayer in their respective chambers from their full time Chaplains. What's wrong with students listening to an opening prayer in our schools?
Blessings,
Bobby
Today's National Day of Prayer was a great day for ecumenism. Today we laid aside all doctrinal differences and joined together across the Nation...in small groups and in large groups, at breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and prayed for our Country, our Leaders, and for each other...to receive wisdom and guidance from God with an open heart and obedient spirit.
History teaches that when our Country's leaders were up against the wall, in their darkest hour...they knew where to turn...to Almighty God. Very good idea!
"As American troops stormed the beaches of Normandy, President Franklin Roosevelt called for our nation to unite in prayer. He also offered a prayer to prepare each citizen for the road ahead. "Let our hearts be stout, to wait out the long travail, to bear sorrows that may come, to impart our courage unto our sons wheresoever they may be. And, O Lord, give us faith. Give us faith in You." The victory that followed on June 6, 1944-also known as D-Day-began the march to Berlin. Eighteen months later, WWII was over and one of the world's greatest evils had been defeated. The prayers of a nation had been a powerful force.
Prayer has always been used in this country for guidance, protection and strength-even before we were a nation or a handful of colonies. The Pilgrims at Plymouth relied on prayer during their first and darkest winter. Our founding fathers also called for prayer during the Constitutional Congress. In their eyes, our recently created nation and freedoms were a direct gift from God. And being a gift from God, there was only one way to insure protection-through prayer.
President Abraham Lincoln knew this well. It was his belief that, "it is the duty of nations as well as men, to owe their dependence upon the overruling power of God." When it came to the fate of the nation, he practiced what he preached. Before the battle of Gettysburg, he turned to God in prayer. "I went to my room one day and I locked the door and got down on my knees before Almighty God and prayed to him mightily for victory at Gettysburg." Won by the Union, Gettysburg was one of the turning points in the war that ended slavery and kept the States united. Today the need for prayer is as great as ever.
Our Nation again faces battlefields, along with an epidemic of broken homes, violence, sexual immorality and social strife. As the heroes of our Nation did in the past, we must again bow our heads in prayer. We must ask the Lord to bless our leaders with wisdom and protection, and that we will have the fortitude to overcome the challenges at hand. If Roosevelt, the Pilgrims and Lincoln never underestimated the power of prayer, neither should we."
Yes, today was a great day for uniting in prayer. But...each and every day is a great day for prayer. "At every opportunity pray in the Spirit, using prayers and petitions of every sort. Pray constantly and attentively for all in the holy company." (Ephesians 6:18)
Just a thought. Every day, members of the United States Senate and House of Representatives, before the day's session begins, listen to a prayer in their respective chambers from their full time Chaplains. What's wrong with students listening to an opening prayer in our schools?
Blessings,
Bobby
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
"In God We Trust"
"America trusts in the abiding power of prayer and asks for the wisdom to discern God's will in times of joy and of trial. As we observe this National Day of Prayer, we recognize our dependence on the Almighty, we thank Him for the many blessings He has bestowed upon us, and we put our country's future in His hands.
From our Nation's humble beginnings, prayer has guided our leaders and played a vital role in the life and history of the United States. Americans of many different faiths share the profound conviction that God listens to the voice of His children and pours His grace upon those who seek Him in prayer. By surrendering our lives to our loving Father, we learn to serve His eternal purposes, and we are strengthened, refreshed, and ready for all that may come."
PRAYER FOR THE NATION
Written by Beth Moore
2009 Honorary Chairman, National Day of Prayer Task Force
We lift our eyes toward Your Throne, where You reign in righteousness.
Your Word assures us that when Your people cry out in sincerity and humility, You will never turn a deaf ear to us.
We call upon You now, seeking Your forgiveness and favor.
Look over this fevered landscape and heal us, Lord.
Drop knees to the floor and raise eyes to the sky, for we know where our help comes from.
Unite these States again in devotion to You, and blur every dividing line.
Do not give us over to our sins. Give us, instead, over to passionate prayer that moves Your heart.
“May Your unfailing love rest upon us, O Lord, even as we put our hope in You.”
In the Name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ
Amen
From our Nation's humble beginnings, prayer has guided our leaders and played a vital role in the life and history of the United States. Americans of many different faiths share the profound conviction that God listens to the voice of His children and pours His grace upon those who seek Him in prayer. By surrendering our lives to our loving Father, we learn to serve His eternal purposes, and we are strengthened, refreshed, and ready for all that may come."
PRAYER FOR THE NATION
Written by Beth Moore
2009 Honorary Chairman, National Day of Prayer Task Force
We lift our eyes toward Your Throne, where You reign in righteousness.
Your Word assures us that when Your people cry out in sincerity and humility, You will never turn a deaf ear to us.
We call upon You now, seeking Your forgiveness and favor.
Look over this fevered landscape and heal us, Lord.
Drop knees to the floor and raise eyes to the sky, for we know where our help comes from.
Unite these States again in devotion to You, and blur every dividing line.
Do not give us over to our sins. Give us, instead, over to passionate prayer that moves Your heart.
“May Your unfailing love rest upon us, O Lord, even as we put our hope in You.”
In the Name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ
Amen
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Mr. President: We Are Praying For You
The 2009 National Day of Prayer takes on even greater significance this year. You would think with all the economic and political turmoil we have experienced over the last 12 months, that this year's National Day of Prayer would especially be embraced and encouraged by the current Administration.
While there will be tens of thousands of prayer gatherings throughout the nation, on May 7th, the Obama Administration announced there will not be a White House Observance for the National Day of Prayer this year, contrary to the administrations of President George W. Bush, President George H. W. Bush, and President Ronald Reagan. A White House Observance was not held during the administration of President Bill Clinton.
It has been announced the White House will release some kind of proclamation recognizing the National Day of Prayer, but apparently it will not be made available until Thursday, May 7, which makes it too late for organizations to distribute.
This should be a wake-up call for all Christians. Our Government is slowly but surely trying to move this Country in a direction away from our dependence on God (exploding debt and size of government), away from listening to and obeying His Word (abortion), and...away from the freedom to speak God's Truth publicly (media bias and manipulation, ACLU threats). "Thus says the Lord: 'Cursed is the man who trusts in human beings, who seeks his strength in flesh, whose heart turns away from the Lord.'" (Jeremiah 17:5)
Let's remember what The National Day of Prayer Task Force says about this special day: "It enables us to recall and to teach the way in which our founding fathers sought the wisdom of God when faced with critical decisions. It stands as a call to us to humbly come before God, seeking His guidance for our leaders and His grace upon us as a people."
Mr. President, do you seek wisdom from God? We are praying for you.
While there will be tens of thousands of prayer gatherings throughout the nation, on May 7th, the Obama Administration announced there will not be a White House Observance for the National Day of Prayer this year, contrary to the administrations of President George W. Bush, President George H. W. Bush, and President Ronald Reagan. A White House Observance was not held during the administration of President Bill Clinton.
It has been announced the White House will release some kind of proclamation recognizing the National Day of Prayer, but apparently it will not be made available until Thursday, May 7, which makes it too late for organizations to distribute.
This should be a wake-up call for all Christians. Our Government is slowly but surely trying to move this Country in a direction away from our dependence on God (exploding debt and size of government), away from listening to and obeying His Word (abortion), and...away from the freedom to speak God's Truth publicly (media bias and manipulation, ACLU threats). "Thus says the Lord: 'Cursed is the man who trusts in human beings, who seeks his strength in flesh, whose heart turns away from the Lord.'" (Jeremiah 17:5)
Let's remember what The National Day of Prayer Task Force says about this special day: "It enables us to recall and to teach the way in which our founding fathers sought the wisdom of God when faced with critical decisions. It stands as a call to us to humbly come before God, seeking His guidance for our leaders and His grace upon us as a people."
Mr. President, do you seek wisdom from God? We are praying for you.
Sunday, May 3, 2009
A Good Day For Ecumenism
2009 National Day of Prayer...Thursday May 7th
Romans 12:12-13 "The body is one and has many members, but all the members, many though they are, are one body; and so it is with Christ. It was in one Spirit that all of us were baptized into one body. All of us have been given to drink of the one Spirit."
The National Day of Prayer is a wonderful opportunity for members of all faiths to look past our doctrinal differences and join hands together across America, thanking God for this Country, and our ability to worship Him as we choose, unencumbered by any human or State pressure to the contrary. I will have the privilege of joining dozens of Catholic and Protestant Christians at a prayer breakfast where we will enjoy our Sheriff Department's color guard play the National Anthem and hear a great spiritual message from one of our lay community members. Later at lunch, in our town square, several local community leaders will lead us in prayer to commemorate this special day.
The National Day of Prayer is an annual observance held on the first Thursday of May, inviting people of all faiths to pray for the nation. It was created in 1952 by a joint resolution of the United States Congress, and signed into law by President Harry S. Truman. In 1988, the law was amended and signed by President Reagan, permanently setting the day as the first Thursday of every May. Each year, the president signs a proclamation, encouraging all Americans to pray on this day. Last year, all 50 state governors plus the governors of several U.S. territories signed similar proclamations.
The National Day of Prayer has great significance for us as a nation. It enables us to recall and to teach the way in which our founding fathers sought the wisdom of God when faced with critical decisions. It stands as a call to us to humbly come before God, seeking His guidance for our leaders and His grace upon us as a people. The unanimous passage of the bill establishing the National Day of Prayer as an annual event, signifies that prayer is as important to our nation today as it was in the beginning.
Last year, local, state and federal observances were held from sunrise in Maine to sunset in Hawaii, uniting Americans from all socio-economic, political and ethnic backgrounds in prayer for our nation. It is estimated that more than two million people attended more than 40,000 observances organized by approximately 40,000 volunteers. At state capitols, county court houses, on the steps of city halls, and in schools, businesses, churches and homes, people stopped their activities and gathered for prayer.
The National Day of Prayer belongs to all Americans. It is a day that transcends differences, bringing together citizens from all backgrounds.
Romans 12:12-13 "The body is one and has many members, but all the members, many though they are, are one body; and so it is with Christ. It was in one Spirit that all of us were baptized into one body. All of us have been given to drink of the one Spirit."
The National Day of Prayer is a wonderful opportunity for members of all faiths to look past our doctrinal differences and join hands together across America, thanking God for this Country, and our ability to worship Him as we choose, unencumbered by any human or State pressure to the contrary. I will have the privilege of joining dozens of Catholic and Protestant Christians at a prayer breakfast where we will enjoy our Sheriff Department's color guard play the National Anthem and hear a great spiritual message from one of our lay community members. Later at lunch, in our town square, several local community leaders will lead us in prayer to commemorate this special day.
The National Day of Prayer is an annual observance held on the first Thursday of May, inviting people of all faiths to pray for the nation. It was created in 1952 by a joint resolution of the United States Congress, and signed into law by President Harry S. Truman. In 1988, the law was amended and signed by President Reagan, permanently setting the day as the first Thursday of every May. Each year, the president signs a proclamation, encouraging all Americans to pray on this day. Last year, all 50 state governors plus the governors of several U.S. territories signed similar proclamations.
The National Day of Prayer has great significance for us as a nation. It enables us to recall and to teach the way in which our founding fathers sought the wisdom of God when faced with critical decisions. It stands as a call to us to humbly come before God, seeking His guidance for our leaders and His grace upon us as a people. The unanimous passage of the bill establishing the National Day of Prayer as an annual event, signifies that prayer is as important to our nation today as it was in the beginning.
Last year, local, state and federal observances were held from sunrise in Maine to sunset in Hawaii, uniting Americans from all socio-economic, political and ethnic backgrounds in prayer for our nation. It is estimated that more than two million people attended more than 40,000 observances organized by approximately 40,000 volunteers. At state capitols, county court houses, on the steps of city halls, and in schools, businesses, churches and homes, people stopped their activities and gathered for prayer.
The National Day of Prayer belongs to all Americans. It is a day that transcends differences, bringing together citizens from all backgrounds.
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