From: New Life Devotional - Steve Arterburn
Proverbs 4:6 "Don’t turn your back on wisdom, for she will protect you. Love her, and she will guard you."
Sometimes, amid the demands of daily life, we lose perspective. Life seems out of balance, and the pressures of everyday living seem overwhelming. What’s needed is a fresh perspective, a restored sense of balance . . . and God.
If a temporary loss of perspective has left you worried, exhausted, or both, it’s time to readjust your thought patterns. Negative thoughts are habit-forming; thankfully, so are positive ones. With practice, you can form the habit of focusing on God’s priorities and your possibilities. When you do, you’ll soon discover that you will spend less time fretting about your challenges and more time praising God for His gifts.
When you call upon the Lord and prayerfully seek His will, He will give you wisdom and perspective. When you make God’s priorities your priorities, He will direct your steps and calm your fears. So today and every day hereafter, pray for a sense of balance and perspective. And remember: your thoughts are intensely powerful things, so handle them with care.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Monday, June 29, 2009
Study, Prepare And Be Ready
From: The Word For You Today - Bob Gass Ministries
Acts 20:24 "I put no value on my life if only I can finish my race and complete the service to which I have been assigned by the Lord Jesus, bearing witness to the gospel of God's grace."
We don't hear much about Abraham Lincoln's defeats because his victories were so notable. But for much of his life the odds were against him. His mother died when he was nine. In 1832 he lost an election to the Illinois State Legislature. In 1849 he was rejected as Commissioner of the General Land Office. He lost Senate races in 1855 and 1858, and in between failed to win a vice-presidential nomination.
However, his most painful losses were the deaths of his four-year-old and twelve-year-old sons. Born in the backwoods of Kentucky, Lincoln had only a few months of 'blab school' - one without books where students repeated the teacher's words. He taught himself mathematics, read the classics and worked on his writing and speaking skills using the Bible as his model. His philosophy was, 'I'll study and prepare, and when the time comes I'll be ready.' He told a friend, 'Bear in mind, your own resolution to succeed is more important than any other one thing.'
His Gettysburg Address is one of the most notable speeches in history. During the darkest days of the Civil War he said, 'I do the very best I know how… and I mean to keep on doing it to the end.'
Paul refused to let life's problems derail him. He understood that what happens in you is more important than what happens to you. He also understood that when you look to Jesus as your role model and draw strength from Him each day, He'll give you all that's needed to overcome in life.
Acts 20:24 "I put no value on my life if only I can finish my race and complete the service to which I have been assigned by the Lord Jesus, bearing witness to the gospel of God's grace."
We don't hear much about Abraham Lincoln's defeats because his victories were so notable. But for much of his life the odds were against him. His mother died when he was nine. In 1832 he lost an election to the Illinois State Legislature. In 1849 he was rejected as Commissioner of the General Land Office. He lost Senate races in 1855 and 1858, and in between failed to win a vice-presidential nomination.
However, his most painful losses were the deaths of his four-year-old and twelve-year-old sons. Born in the backwoods of Kentucky, Lincoln had only a few months of 'blab school' - one without books where students repeated the teacher's words. He taught himself mathematics, read the classics and worked on his writing and speaking skills using the Bible as his model. His philosophy was, 'I'll study and prepare, and when the time comes I'll be ready.' He told a friend, 'Bear in mind, your own resolution to succeed is more important than any other one thing.'
His Gettysburg Address is one of the most notable speeches in history. During the darkest days of the Civil War he said, 'I do the very best I know how… and I mean to keep on doing it to the end.'
Paul refused to let life's problems derail him. He understood that what happens in you is more important than what happens to you. He also understood that when you look to Jesus as your role model and draw strength from Him each day, He'll give you all that's needed to overcome in life.
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Bounce Back!
From: Byrant Wright Ministries, and The Word For Today - Bob Gass Ministries
John 16:33 “In this world you will have problems. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
Corporate downsizing. Rebellious teenagers. An unfaithful spouse. A devastating illness. Life often brings trouble our way. Sometimes we are so overwhelmed we struggle to merely stay afloat. Difficulty during times of trouble should come as no surprise to students of the Bible.
Jesus Christ said, “In this world you will have problems.” That doesn’t sound like a very optimistic outlook. However, He goes on to say, “But take heart! I have overcome the world.” Now, that message is positive indeed!
Trouble. Difficulty. These things are a reality in this life. Jesus Christ promises us that He has provided victory over those things which cause us so much pain. Trusting in Him is the key to overcoming these problems.
Why not evaluate your present struggles from a Biblical perspective—from Christ’s perspective? You have nothing to lose and everything to gain!
When life knocks you down don't stay down, bounce back! Everybody stumbles or gets knocked off their feet from time to time; the winners are just the ones who keep getting back up!
That's what Paul meant when he said, "In all these things we are more than conquerors." (Romans 8:37). If you pray and look hard enough, you'll find the seed of good in every adversity "Even though you meant harm to me, God meant it for good, to achieve His present end, the survival of many people." (Genesis 50:20). The difference between winners and losers, is their ability to turn stumbling blocks into stepping stones.
John 16:33 “In this world you will have problems. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
Corporate downsizing. Rebellious teenagers. An unfaithful spouse. A devastating illness. Life often brings trouble our way. Sometimes we are so overwhelmed we struggle to merely stay afloat. Difficulty during times of trouble should come as no surprise to students of the Bible.
Jesus Christ said, “In this world you will have problems.” That doesn’t sound like a very optimistic outlook. However, He goes on to say, “But take heart! I have overcome the world.” Now, that message is positive indeed!
Trouble. Difficulty. These things are a reality in this life. Jesus Christ promises us that He has provided victory over those things which cause us so much pain. Trusting in Him is the key to overcoming these problems.
Why not evaluate your present struggles from a Biblical perspective—from Christ’s perspective? You have nothing to lose and everything to gain!
When life knocks you down don't stay down, bounce back! Everybody stumbles or gets knocked off their feet from time to time; the winners are just the ones who keep getting back up!
That's what Paul meant when he said, "In all these things we are more than conquerors." (Romans 8:37). If you pray and look hard enough, you'll find the seed of good in every adversity "Even though you meant harm to me, God meant it for good, to achieve His present end, the survival of many people." (Genesis 50:20). The difference between winners and losers, is their ability to turn stumbling blocks into stepping stones.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Aim High ... Aim At Heaven
From: New Life Daily Devotion - Steve Arterburn
Romans 12:2 "And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect."
We live in the world, but we should not worship it—yet at every turn, or so it seems, we are tempted to do otherwise. As Warren Wiersbe correctly observed, “Because the world is deceptive, it is dangerous.”
The 21st-century world we live in is a noisy, stress-filled, distracting place, a place that offers countless temptations and dangers. The world seems to cry, “Worship me with your time, your money, your energy, your thoughts, and your life!” But if we are wise, we won’t fall prey to that temptation.
C. S. Lewis said, “Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in; aim at earth and you will get neither.” That’s good advice. You’re likely to hit what you aim at, so aim high . . . aim at heaven.
Romans 12:2 "And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect."
We live in the world, but we should not worship it—yet at every turn, or so it seems, we are tempted to do otherwise. As Warren Wiersbe correctly observed, “Because the world is deceptive, it is dangerous.”
The 21st-century world we live in is a noisy, stress-filled, distracting place, a place that offers countless temptations and dangers. The world seems to cry, “Worship me with your time, your money, your energy, your thoughts, and your life!” But if we are wise, we won’t fall prey to that temptation.
C. S. Lewis said, “Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in; aim at earth and you will get neither.” That’s good advice. You’re likely to hit what you aim at, so aim high . . . aim at heaven.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
No One Is Exempt
From: Greg Laurie Ministries
Romans 8:28 "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose."
In the wrap-up to His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus told a story about two men who built two homes. They may have been at the same time and close to together. They might have even had the same floor plan.
One of the builders, however, erected his home on shifting sand, while the other built his home on a stable rock foundation. Then the storms came, with wind and driving rain hitting both of those houses—hard! The house that had been built on sand collapsed and fell in upon itself, while the one built on the rock stood firm.
The obvious moral of the story is to build your life on a foundation that will last, like the one we find in the pages of God’s Word. But here’s an application we sometimes miss. The storm came to both lives. The wind beat on both houses. The rain poured on both building sites. The man who was wise and carefully chose a stable foundation got hit with the same hurricane-force winds as the man who foolishly took shortcuts and didn’t bother to plan ahead.
No one is exempt!
We will all experience storms in life. Good things will happen to us, as well as tragic and inexplicable things. Every life will have its share of pain. As much as we would like to believe otherwise, none of us can take an extended vacation beyond the reach of human suffering and tragedy.
God will not make bad into good, because bad is bad. But it is to say that good can come out of bad. As Romans 8:28 affirms: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” A better translation would be, “He is causing all things to work and to continue working together for good.”
Life is a process and, as finite beings who live moment to moment, we can’t see around the bend. We can’t discern God’s ultimate purposes. But we can know this: He is watching and caring, in control and loving us with an everlasting love.
Romans 8:28 "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose."
In the wrap-up to His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus told a story about two men who built two homes. They may have been at the same time and close to together. They might have even had the same floor plan.
One of the builders, however, erected his home on shifting sand, while the other built his home on a stable rock foundation. Then the storms came, with wind and driving rain hitting both of those houses—hard! The house that had been built on sand collapsed and fell in upon itself, while the one built on the rock stood firm.
The obvious moral of the story is to build your life on a foundation that will last, like the one we find in the pages of God’s Word. But here’s an application we sometimes miss. The storm came to both lives. The wind beat on both houses. The rain poured on both building sites. The man who was wise and carefully chose a stable foundation got hit with the same hurricane-force winds as the man who foolishly took shortcuts and didn’t bother to plan ahead.
No one is exempt!
We will all experience storms in life. Good things will happen to us, as well as tragic and inexplicable things. Every life will have its share of pain. As much as we would like to believe otherwise, none of us can take an extended vacation beyond the reach of human suffering and tragedy.
God will not make bad into good, because bad is bad. But it is to say that good can come out of bad. As Romans 8:28 affirms: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” A better translation would be, “He is causing all things to work and to continue working together for good.”
Life is a process and, as finite beings who live moment to moment, we can’t see around the bend. We can’t discern God’s ultimate purposes. But we can know this: He is watching and caring, in control and loving us with an everlasting love.
What's The Point?
From: Powerpoint Daily Devotional - Jack Graham
Ecclesiastes 2:26 "For to the one who pleases Him God has given wisdom and knowledge and joy..."
We’ve all had days when we throw up our hands and ask, “What’s the point?”
Maybe you’ve struggled lately with questions about the purpose of your life. Or maybe you’ve wondered if it’s possible to find real joy and fulfillment in life. So did Solomon.
Solomon tried many things to gain fulfillment: laughter, learning, liquor, luxuries, lust, and labor. He had it all, but he was still empty inside and dissatisfied with his life.
He eventually even said, “Vanity of vanities; all is vanity!” And he was right. None of the things Solomon tried could satisfy him. Only God could! As our verse for today says, Solomon found that wisdom, joy, and knowledge comes from God. You can only have a life full of purpose and meaning when you live life sold out to the Lord Jesus.
WE’RE ON EARTH ONLY A SHORT TIME. MAKE TODAY COUNT BY LIVING IT THROUGH CHRIST!
Ecclesiastes 2:26 "For to the one who pleases Him God has given wisdom and knowledge and joy..."
We’ve all had days when we throw up our hands and ask, “What’s the point?”
Maybe you’ve struggled lately with questions about the purpose of your life. Or maybe you’ve wondered if it’s possible to find real joy and fulfillment in life. So did Solomon.
Solomon tried many things to gain fulfillment: laughter, learning, liquor, luxuries, lust, and labor. He had it all, but he was still empty inside and dissatisfied with his life.
He eventually even said, “Vanity of vanities; all is vanity!” And he was right. None of the things Solomon tried could satisfy him. Only God could! As our verse for today says, Solomon found that wisdom, joy, and knowledge comes from God. You can only have a life full of purpose and meaning when you live life sold out to the Lord Jesus.
WE’RE ON EARTH ONLY A SHORT TIME. MAKE TODAY COUNT BY LIVING IT THROUGH CHRIST!
Monday, June 22, 2009
Life Is A Battleground
From: Greg Laurie Ministries
2 Timothy 2:3 “Endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.”
Without question, the Christian life is the greatest life you could ever live. And why is that? I can’t even count all the ways!
God takes a life that was empty, aimless, and headed toward certain judgment, and turns it around and transforms it. He forgives us of all of our sin, and if that wasn’t enough, credits the very righteousness of Jesus Christ into our spiritual bank account.
He removes all of our guilt, and fills the void in our lives with Himself, as He literally takes up residence in the very center of who we are. Most importantly, He changes our eternal address from a place called hell to a place called heaven.
This all comes as a result of the power of the gospel proclaimed and believed. And when we do believe, we are gifted with a new desire to glorify God with our lives.
But we need to understand that there will be a whole new set of problems that will take the place of your old problems. That is because the day that you put your trust in Jesus Christ, you enter into a battle that will last for the rest of your life.
Why? Because not only is there a God who loves you and has a plan for your life, there is also a devil who hates you, and fiercely opposes God’s plan.
Some are surprised to find that the Christian life is not a playground, but a battleground. And that is why the apostle Paul said, “Endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.”
2 Timothy 2:3 “Endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.”
Without question, the Christian life is the greatest life you could ever live. And why is that? I can’t even count all the ways!
God takes a life that was empty, aimless, and headed toward certain judgment, and turns it around and transforms it. He forgives us of all of our sin, and if that wasn’t enough, credits the very righteousness of Jesus Christ into our spiritual bank account.
He removes all of our guilt, and fills the void in our lives with Himself, as He literally takes up residence in the very center of who we are. Most importantly, He changes our eternal address from a place called hell to a place called heaven.
This all comes as a result of the power of the gospel proclaimed and believed. And when we do believe, we are gifted with a new desire to glorify God with our lives.
But we need to understand that there will be a whole new set of problems that will take the place of your old problems. That is because the day that you put your trust in Jesus Christ, you enter into a battle that will last for the rest of your life.
Why? Because not only is there a God who loves you and has a plan for your life, there is also a devil who hates you, and fiercely opposes God’s plan.
Some are surprised to find that the Christian life is not a playground, but a battleground. And that is why the apostle Paul said, “Endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.”
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Situational Ethics
From: Selwyn Hughes Ministries
Proverbs 30:8 "Put falsehood and lying far from me."
In today's world integrity is in short supply. I asked a successful businessman: "What would you say is the greatest need in your field of business?" He thought for a moment, looked me straight in the eye and said, "Integrity." I asked him why, and he said, "Almost daily I am faced with dishonesty and duplicity and whenever I confront it people take the view that dishonesty is only a problem when it is found out."
It's interesting, however, that those who laugh at dishonesty get deeply upset when they are victims of it. I caught sight of this statement in one of my grandson's books: "There are two things essential if you are to succeed in business - integrity and sagacity. Integrity is keeping your word and sagacity is never giving your word."
Is it any wonder that our young people find situational ethics so appealing? It is only fair to say, though, that despite the present-day trend away from honesty and integrity, there are still millions of people who would not claim to be Christians but nevertheless see it as their task to be honest, upright and decent. May their tribe increase!
Christians who lack integrity hinder the progress of the gospel in this world and set the Christian message in a false light. Determine to be honest in thought and speech and act. Lay this down as a cornerstone of your life, especially you who are young, and begin building from there. Whatever you do, shun like a plague the teachings of the situational ethics people and admit no exceptions.
Proverbs 30:8 "Put falsehood and lying far from me."
In today's world integrity is in short supply. I asked a successful businessman: "What would you say is the greatest need in your field of business?" He thought for a moment, looked me straight in the eye and said, "Integrity." I asked him why, and he said, "Almost daily I am faced with dishonesty and duplicity and whenever I confront it people take the view that dishonesty is only a problem when it is found out."
It's interesting, however, that those who laugh at dishonesty get deeply upset when they are victims of it. I caught sight of this statement in one of my grandson's books: "There are two things essential if you are to succeed in business - integrity and sagacity. Integrity is keeping your word and sagacity is never giving your word."
Is it any wonder that our young people find situational ethics so appealing? It is only fair to say, though, that despite the present-day trend away from honesty and integrity, there are still millions of people who would not claim to be Christians but nevertheless see it as their task to be honest, upright and decent. May their tribe increase!
Christians who lack integrity hinder the progress of the gospel in this world and set the Christian message in a false light. Determine to be honest in thought and speech and act. Lay this down as a cornerstone of your life, especially you who are young, and begin building from there. Whatever you do, shun like a plague the teachings of the situational ethics people and admit no exceptions.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
The Mind vs. The Brain
From: Love Worth Finding Ministries
Philippians 4:8 “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”
Did you know that there is a difference between your mind and your brain? The brain is what the mind thinks with. The relationship of the mind and the brain is very similar to the relationship of a pianist and a piano. The piano is the brain and the pianist is the mind.
The most dangerous thing in the world is a man with a bad mind and a good brain. He is a clever devil.
When you get saved, you don’t get a new brain. You get a new mind. And the god of this world will do all he can to distort your mind. Why? Because Proverbs 23:7 says, “For as he thinks in his heart, so is he.”
Philippians 4:8 “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”
Did you know that there is a difference between your mind and your brain? The brain is what the mind thinks with. The relationship of the mind and the brain is very similar to the relationship of a pianist and a piano. The piano is the brain and the pianist is the mind.
The most dangerous thing in the world is a man with a bad mind and a good brain. He is a clever devil.
When you get saved, you don’t get a new brain. You get a new mind. And the god of this world will do all he can to distort your mind. Why? Because Proverbs 23:7 says, “For as he thinks in his heart, so is he.”
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Our Thought Life
From: In Touch Ministries
1 Corinthians 2:11 "Who, for example, knows a man's innermost self but the man's own spirit within him?"
God calls His children to live holy lives (1 Pet. 1:15-16). This requires both the Holy Spirit’s help and our cooperation. We should begin with our thought life because our actions are based upon what we believe.
The first step is to acknowledge that our thoughts need changing. Selfishness, jealousy, and other unrighteous behavior come from ungodly thinking. Examining ourselves will reveal impure thoughts. Our Father wants these replaced with thinking bent toward forgiveness and kindness. This will happen as we cooperate with the Holy Spirit in renewing our minds.
Next, we make a commitment to the Lord that we will pursue godliness. This promise is much more than a New Year’s resolution. It encompasses our entire being and is expressed as a desire to love God with our whole heart, soul, mind, and strength. It means dedicating ourselves to become like our Savior.
Daily time in the Word will keep our resolve strong. Through Scripture, the Holy Spirit will transform our mind and strengthen our inner being to bring about any needed changes. If we neglect Bible study, we leave ourselves open to the influence of the world and our “flesh,” neither of which cares about godliness.
1 Corinthians 2:11 "Who, for example, knows a man's innermost self but the man's own spirit within him?"
God calls His children to live holy lives (1 Pet. 1:15-16). This requires both the Holy Spirit’s help and our cooperation. We should begin with our thought life because our actions are based upon what we believe.
The first step is to acknowledge that our thoughts need changing. Selfishness, jealousy, and other unrighteous behavior come from ungodly thinking. Examining ourselves will reveal impure thoughts. Our Father wants these replaced with thinking bent toward forgiveness and kindness. This will happen as we cooperate with the Holy Spirit in renewing our minds.
Next, we make a commitment to the Lord that we will pursue godliness. This promise is much more than a New Year’s resolution. It encompasses our entire being and is expressed as a desire to love God with our whole heart, soul, mind, and strength. It means dedicating ourselves to become like our Savior.
Daily time in the Word will keep our resolve strong. Through Scripture, the Holy Spirit will transform our mind and strengthen our inner being to bring about any needed changes. If we neglect Bible study, we leave ourselves open to the influence of the world and our “flesh,” neither of which cares about godliness.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
God Always Comes First
From: New Life Daily Devotional - Steve Arterburn
Colossians 4:2 "Pray perseveringly, be attentive to prayer, and pray in a spirit of thanksgiving."
God’s Word makes it clear: we should offer our Creator the praise and worship He deserves—and we shouldn’t wait until Sunday morning to do so. Yet we live in a distraction-filled society that encourages us to make praise and worship a one-day-a-week activity.
If we allow the distractions of everyday living to interfere with the practice of regular worship and praise—or if we yield to the countless temptations of our world—we find ourselves engaged in a struggle between good and evil, a clash between God and Satan. Our responses to these struggles have implications that echo throughout our families and throughout our communities.
Do you take time each day to worship your Father in heaven, or do you wait until Sunday morning to praise Him for His blessings? The answer to this question will, in large part, determine the quality and direction of your spiritual life in good times and in turbulent times.
Every day provides opportunities to put God where He belongs: at the center of our lives. When we do so, we worship Him not only with our words, but also with our deeds, and that’s as it should be. For believers, God comes first. Always first.
Colossians 4:2 "Pray perseveringly, be attentive to prayer, and pray in a spirit of thanksgiving."
God’s Word makes it clear: we should offer our Creator the praise and worship He deserves—and we shouldn’t wait until Sunday morning to do so. Yet we live in a distraction-filled society that encourages us to make praise and worship a one-day-a-week activity.
If we allow the distractions of everyday living to interfere with the practice of regular worship and praise—or if we yield to the countless temptations of our world—we find ourselves engaged in a struggle between good and evil, a clash between God and Satan. Our responses to these struggles have implications that echo throughout our families and throughout our communities.
Do you take time each day to worship your Father in heaven, or do you wait until Sunday morning to praise Him for His blessings? The answer to this question will, in large part, determine the quality and direction of your spiritual life in good times and in turbulent times.
Every day provides opportunities to put God where He belongs: at the center of our lives. When we do so, we worship Him not only with our words, but also with our deeds, and that’s as it should be. For believers, God comes first. Always first.
Monday, June 15, 2009
This Too Will Pass
From: New Life Daily Devotion - Steve Arterburn
Micah 7:8 "Though I sit in darkness, the Lord will be my light."
Have you ever faced challenges that seemed too big to handle? Have you ever faced big problems that, despite your best efforts, simply could not be solved? If so, you know how uncomfortable it is to feel helpless in the face of difficult circumstances. Thankfully, even when there’s nowhere else to turn, you can turn your thoughts and prayers to God, and He will respond.
God’s hand uplifts those who turn their hearts and prayers to Him. Count yourself among that number. When you do, you can live courageously and joyfully, knowing that “this too will pass” — but that God’s love for you will not. And you can draw strength from the knowledge that you are a marvelous creation, loved, protected, and uplifted by the ever-present hand of God.
God will not permit any troubles to come upon us unless He has a specific plan by which great blessing can come out of the difficulty. Peter Marshall
Micah 7:8 "Though I sit in darkness, the Lord will be my light."
Have you ever faced challenges that seemed too big to handle? Have you ever faced big problems that, despite your best efforts, simply could not be solved? If so, you know how uncomfortable it is to feel helpless in the face of difficult circumstances. Thankfully, even when there’s nowhere else to turn, you can turn your thoughts and prayers to God, and He will respond.
God’s hand uplifts those who turn their hearts and prayers to Him. Count yourself among that number. When you do, you can live courageously and joyfully, knowing that “this too will pass” — but that God’s love for you will not. And you can draw strength from the knowledge that you are a marvelous creation, loved, protected, and uplifted by the ever-present hand of God.
God will not permit any troubles to come upon us unless He has a specific plan by which great blessing can come out of the difficulty. Peter Marshall
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Live Abundantly And Courageously
From: New Life Daily Devotional - Steve Arterburn
Psalm 112:7-8 "He will not fear bad news; his heart is confident, trusting in the Lord. His heart is assured; he will not fear."
Ephesians 5:20 "Give thanks to God the Father always and for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ."
Every person’s life is a tapestry of events: some wonderful, some not-so-wonderful, and some downright disastrous. When we visit the mountaintops of life, praising God isn’t hard—in fact, it’s easy. In our moments of triumph, we can bow our heads and thank God for our victories. But when we fail to reach the mountaintops, when we endure the inevitable losses that are a part of every person’s life, we find it much tougher to give God the praise He deserves. Yet wherever we find ourselves, whether on the mountaintops of life or in life’s darkest valleys, we must still offer thanks to God, giving thanks in all circumstances.
The next time you find yourself worried about the challenges of today or the uncertainties of tomorrow, ask yourself this question: are you really ready to place your concerns and your life in God’s all-powerful, all-knowing, all-loving hands? If the answer to that question is yes—as it should be—then you can draw courage today from the source of strength that never fails: your Father in heaven.
God is with you always, listening to your thoughts and prayers, watching over your every move. If the demands of everyday life weigh down upon you, you may be tempted to ignore God’s presence or—worse yet—to lose faith in His promises. But, when you quiet yourself and acknowledge His presence, God will touch your heart and restore your courage.
At this very moment—as you’re fulfilling your obligations and overcoming tough times—God is seeking to work in you and through you. He’s asking you to live abundantly and courageously . . . and He’s ready to help. So why not let Him do it . . . starting now?
Psalm 112:7-8 "He will not fear bad news; his heart is confident, trusting in the Lord. His heart is assured; he will not fear."
Ephesians 5:20 "Give thanks to God the Father always and for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ."
Every person’s life is a tapestry of events: some wonderful, some not-so-wonderful, and some downright disastrous. When we visit the mountaintops of life, praising God isn’t hard—in fact, it’s easy. In our moments of triumph, we can bow our heads and thank God for our victories. But when we fail to reach the mountaintops, when we endure the inevitable losses that are a part of every person’s life, we find it much tougher to give God the praise He deserves. Yet wherever we find ourselves, whether on the mountaintops of life or in life’s darkest valleys, we must still offer thanks to God, giving thanks in all circumstances.
The next time you find yourself worried about the challenges of today or the uncertainties of tomorrow, ask yourself this question: are you really ready to place your concerns and your life in God’s all-powerful, all-knowing, all-loving hands? If the answer to that question is yes—as it should be—then you can draw courage today from the source of strength that never fails: your Father in heaven.
God is with you always, listening to your thoughts and prayers, watching over your every move. If the demands of everyday life weigh down upon you, you may be tempted to ignore God’s presence or—worse yet—to lose faith in His promises. But, when you quiet yourself and acknowledge His presence, God will touch your heart and restore your courage.
At this very moment—as you’re fulfilling your obligations and overcoming tough times—God is seeking to work in you and through you. He’s asking you to live abundantly and courageously . . . and He’s ready to help. So why not let Him do it . . . starting now?
Thursday, June 11, 2009
One Nation Under God
Thanks John.
From: Paul Harvey's Radio Program
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."
Billy Graham's Prayer For Our Nation
THIS MAN SURE HAS A GOOD VIEW OF WHAT'S HAPPENING TO OUR COUNTRY!
"Heavenly Father, we come before you today to ask your forgiveness and to seek your direction and guidance. We know Your Word says, 'Woe to those who call evil good,' but that is exactly what we have done. We have lost our spiritual equilibrium and reversed our values. We have exploited the poor and called it the lottery. We have rewarded laziness and called it welfare.
We have killed our unborn and called it choice. We have shot abortionists and called it justifiable.. We have neglected to discipline our children and called it building self esteem.. We have abused power and called it politics... We have coveted our neighbor's possessions and called it ambition. We have polluted the air with profanity and pornography and called it freedom of expression. We have ridiculed the time-honored values of our forefathers and called it enlightenment. Search us, Oh God, and know our hearts today; cleanse us from every sin and Set us free. Amen!"
Commentator Paul Harvey aired this prayer on his radio program, 'The Rest of the Story,' before he died and received a larger response to this program than any other he has ever aired. With the Lord's help, may this prayer sweep over our nation and wholeheartedly become our desire so that we again can be called 'One nation under God..'
From: Paul Harvey's Radio Program
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."
Billy Graham's Prayer For Our Nation
THIS MAN SURE HAS A GOOD VIEW OF WHAT'S HAPPENING TO OUR COUNTRY!
"Heavenly Father, we come before you today to ask your forgiveness and to seek your direction and guidance. We know Your Word says, 'Woe to those who call evil good,' but that is exactly what we have done. We have lost our spiritual equilibrium and reversed our values. We have exploited the poor and called it the lottery. We have rewarded laziness and called it welfare.
We have killed our unborn and called it choice. We have shot abortionists and called it justifiable.. We have neglected to discipline our children and called it building self esteem.. We have abused power and called it politics... We have coveted our neighbor's possessions and called it ambition. We have polluted the air with profanity and pornography and called it freedom of expression. We have ridiculed the time-honored values of our forefathers and called it enlightenment. Search us, Oh God, and know our hearts today; cleanse us from every sin and Set us free. Amen!"
Commentator Paul Harvey aired this prayer on his radio program, 'The Rest of the Story,' before he died and received a larger response to this program than any other he has ever aired. With the Lord's help, may this prayer sweep over our nation and wholeheartedly become our desire so that we again can be called 'One nation under God..'
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Running The Race
From: The Upper Room Devotionals
Isaiah 40:31 "Those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint."
My friend, Art, often took part in Colorado's annual Pike's Peak run, which is 14 miles. One year Art's 13-year-old daughter, Ruth, decided to enter. But about a quarter-mile into the race, Ruth called, "Daddy, I'm dropping out. I can't do it." "Can you run if I run with you?" Art asked.
"Well, I can try," came Ruth's answer. So as the other runners raced up the mountain, Art and Ruth plodded along. At miles 5, 10, 12 and 13 they were still going. When they finally crossed the finish line, Ruth fell to the ground, exhausted but elated, and said, "Daddy, I think this is the closest I've ever felt to you."
Art died after a two-year battle with injuries sustained in a major fall. But I know that he did not run that last race alone. God ran with him as he struggled "up the hill," and I know that Art was truly close to his heavenly Father at the finish line.
At times when we are struggling with life and think we can't go on, we discover that God is "running the race" with us. God can give us the strength to do what we had believed was impossible.
Isaiah 40:31 "Those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint."
My friend, Art, often took part in Colorado's annual Pike's Peak run, which is 14 miles. One year Art's 13-year-old daughter, Ruth, decided to enter. But about a quarter-mile into the race, Ruth called, "Daddy, I'm dropping out. I can't do it." "Can you run if I run with you?" Art asked.
"Well, I can try," came Ruth's answer. So as the other runners raced up the mountain, Art and Ruth plodded along. At miles 5, 10, 12 and 13 they were still going. When they finally crossed the finish line, Ruth fell to the ground, exhausted but elated, and said, "Daddy, I think this is the closest I've ever felt to you."
Art died after a two-year battle with injuries sustained in a major fall. But I know that he did not run that last race alone. God ran with him as he struggled "up the hill," and I know that Art was truly close to his heavenly Father at the finish line.
At times when we are struggling with life and think we can't go on, we discover that God is "running the race" with us. God can give us the strength to do what we had believed was impossible.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Seek Wise Counsel
From: New Life Daily Devotional - Steve Arterburn
Proverbs 1:5 "A wise man will hear and increase learning, and a man of understanding will attain wise counsel."
If you find yourself caught up in the inevitable challenges of these turbulent times, it’s probably the right time to start searching for knowledgeable friends and mentors who can give you solid advice. Why do you need help evaluating the person in the mirror? Because you’re simply too close to that person, that’s why.
Sometimes, you’ll be tempted to give yourself straight A’s when you deserve considerably lower grades. On other occasions, you’ll become your own worst critic, giving yourself a string of failing marks when you deserve better. The truth, of course, is often somewhere in the middle.
Finding a wise mentor is only half the battle. It takes just as much wisdom—and sometimes more—to act upon good advice as it does to give it. So find people you can trust, listen to them carefully, and act accordingly.
It takes a wise person to give good advice, but an even wiser person to take it.
Marie T. Freeman
God guides through the counsel of good people.
E. Stanley Jones
Proverbs 1:5 "A wise man will hear and increase learning, and a man of understanding will attain wise counsel."
If you find yourself caught up in the inevitable challenges of these turbulent times, it’s probably the right time to start searching for knowledgeable friends and mentors who can give you solid advice. Why do you need help evaluating the person in the mirror? Because you’re simply too close to that person, that’s why.
Sometimes, you’ll be tempted to give yourself straight A’s when you deserve considerably lower grades. On other occasions, you’ll become your own worst critic, giving yourself a string of failing marks when you deserve better. The truth, of course, is often somewhere in the middle.
Finding a wise mentor is only half the battle. It takes just as much wisdom—and sometimes more—to act upon good advice as it does to give it. So find people you can trust, listen to them carefully, and act accordingly.
It takes a wise person to give good advice, but an even wiser person to take it.
Marie T. Freeman
God guides through the counsel of good people.
E. Stanley Jones
Monday, June 8, 2009
He Is Here
From: New Life Daily Devotion - Steve Arterburn
Deuteronomy 31:8 "The Lord is the One who will go before you. He will be with you; He will not leave you or forsake you. Do not be afraid or discouraged."
If God is everywhere, why does He sometimes seem so far away? The answer to that question, of course, has nothing to do with God and everything to do with us.
When we begin each day on our knees, in praise and worship to Him, God often seems very near indeed. But, if we ignore God’s presence or—worse yet—rebel against it altogether, the world in which we live becomes a spiritual wasteland.
Are you tired, discouraged, or fearful? Be comforted because God is with you. Are you confused? Listen to the quiet voice of your Heavenly Father. Are you bitter? Talk with God and seek His guidance. Are you celebrating a great victory? Thank God and praise Him. He is the Giver of all things good.
In whatever condition you find yourself, wherever you are, whether you are happy or sad, victorious or vanquished, troubled or triumphant, celebrate God’s presence. And be comforted. God is not just near. He is here.
Deuteronomy 31:8 "The Lord is the One who will go before you. He will be with you; He will not leave you or forsake you. Do not be afraid or discouraged."
If God is everywhere, why does He sometimes seem so far away? The answer to that question, of course, has nothing to do with God and everything to do with us.
When we begin each day on our knees, in praise and worship to Him, God often seems very near indeed. But, if we ignore God’s presence or—worse yet—rebel against it altogether, the world in which we live becomes a spiritual wasteland.
Are you tired, discouraged, or fearful? Be comforted because God is with you. Are you confused? Listen to the quiet voice of your Heavenly Father. Are you bitter? Talk with God and seek His guidance. Are you celebrating a great victory? Thank God and praise Him. He is the Giver of all things good.
In whatever condition you find yourself, wherever you are, whether you are happy or sad, victorious or vanquished, troubled or triumphant, celebrate God’s presence. And be comforted. God is not just near. He is here.
Sunday, June 7, 2009
His Answer Isn't Always Yes
From: New Life Daily Devotion - Steve Arterburn
1 Thessalonians 5:17 "Never cease praying."
God is trying to get His message through . . . to you! Are you listening?
Perhaps, if you’re experiencing tough times or uncertain times, you may find yourself overwhelmed by the press of everyday life. Perhaps you forget to slow yourself down long enough to talk with God. Instead of turning your thoughts and prayers to Him, you may rely upon your own resources. Instead of asking God for guidance, you may depend only upon your own limited wisdom. A far better course of action is this: simply stop what you’re doing long enough to open your heart to God; then listen carefully for His directions.
Do you spend time each day with God? You should. Are you in need? Ask God to sustain you. Are you troubled? Take your worries to Him in prayer. Are you weary? Seek God’s strength. In all things great and small, seek God’s wisdom and His grace. He hears your prayers, and He will answer. All you must do is ask.
God always answers the prayers of His children—but His answer isn’t always “Yes.” Billy Graham
1 Thessalonians 5:17 "Never cease praying."
God is trying to get His message through . . . to you! Are you listening?
Perhaps, if you’re experiencing tough times or uncertain times, you may find yourself overwhelmed by the press of everyday life. Perhaps you forget to slow yourself down long enough to talk with God. Instead of turning your thoughts and prayers to Him, you may rely upon your own resources. Instead of asking God for guidance, you may depend only upon your own limited wisdom. A far better course of action is this: simply stop what you’re doing long enough to open your heart to God; then listen carefully for His directions.
Do you spend time each day with God? You should. Are you in need? Ask God to sustain you. Are you troubled? Take your worries to Him in prayer. Are you weary? Seek God’s strength. In all things great and small, seek God’s wisdom and His grace. He hears your prayers, and He will answer. All you must do is ask.
God always answers the prayers of His children—but His answer isn’t always “Yes.” Billy Graham
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
The Right Kind Of Attitude
From: New Life Daily Devotion - Steve Arterburn
2 Timothy 1:7 "For God has not given us a spirit of fearfulness, but one of strength, love, and sound judgment."
If you want to defeat Old Man Trouble, you’ll need the right kind of attitude: the positive kind. So what’s your attitude today? Are you fearful, angry, bored, or worried? Are you pessimistic, perplexed, pained, and perturbed? Are you moping around with a frown on your face that’s almost as big as the one in your heart? If so, God wants to have a little talk with you.
God created you in His own image, and He wants you to experience joy, contentment, peace, and abundance. But, God will not force you to experience these things; you must choose to embrace them for yourself.
God has given you free will, including the ability to influence the direction and the tone of your thoughts. And, here’s how God wants you to direct those thoughts:
“Finally brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable—if there is any moral excellence and if there is any praise—dwell on these things” (Philippians 4:8).
So, the next time you find yourself dwelling upon the negative aspects of your life, refocus your attention on things positive. The next time you find yourself falling prey to the blight of pessimism, stop yourself and turn your thoughts around. The next time you’re tempted to waste valuable time gossiping or complaining, resist those temptations with all your might.
"We are either the masters or the victims of our attitudes. It is a matter of personal choice. Who we are today is the result of choices we made yesterday. Tomorrow, we will become what we choose today. To change means to choose to change." John Maxwell
2 Timothy 1:7 "For God has not given us a spirit of fearfulness, but one of strength, love, and sound judgment."
If you want to defeat Old Man Trouble, you’ll need the right kind of attitude: the positive kind. So what’s your attitude today? Are you fearful, angry, bored, or worried? Are you pessimistic, perplexed, pained, and perturbed? Are you moping around with a frown on your face that’s almost as big as the one in your heart? If so, God wants to have a little talk with you.
God created you in His own image, and He wants you to experience joy, contentment, peace, and abundance. But, God will not force you to experience these things; you must choose to embrace them for yourself.
God has given you free will, including the ability to influence the direction and the tone of your thoughts. And, here’s how God wants you to direct those thoughts:
“Finally brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable—if there is any moral excellence and if there is any praise—dwell on these things” (Philippians 4:8).
So, the next time you find yourself dwelling upon the negative aspects of your life, refocus your attention on things positive. The next time you find yourself falling prey to the blight of pessimism, stop yourself and turn your thoughts around. The next time you’re tempted to waste valuable time gossiping or complaining, resist those temptations with all your might.
"We are either the masters or the victims of our attitudes. It is a matter of personal choice. Who we are today is the result of choices we made yesterday. Tomorrow, we will become what we choose today. To change means to choose to change." John Maxwell
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Spiritual And Personal Growth
From: New Life Devotion - Steve Arterburn
Proverbs 10:9 "The one who lives with integrity lives securely, but whoever perverts his ways will be found out."
Charles Swindoll correctly observed, “Nothing speaks louder or more powerfully than a life of integrity.” Righteous men and women agree.
Character is built slowly over a lifetime. It is the sum of every right decision, every honest word, every noble thought, and every heartfelt prayer. It is forged on the anvil of honorable work and polished by the twin virtues of generosity and humility. Character is a precious thing—difficult to build but easy to tear down. As believers in Christ, we must seek to live each day with discipline, honesty, and faith. When we do, integrity becomes a habit.
Psalm 145 promises, “The Lord is near to all who call on Him, to all who call on Him in truth. He fulfills the desires of those who fear Him; He hears their cry and saves them. (18-20).
And the words of Jesus offer us comfort: “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).
The times that try your soul are also the times that build your character. During the darker days of life, you can learn lessons that are impossible to learn during sunny, happier days. Times of adversity can—and should—be times of intense spiritual and personal growth. But God will not force you to learn the lessons of adversity. You must learn them for yourself.
Proverbs 10:9 "The one who lives with integrity lives securely, but whoever perverts his ways will be found out."
Charles Swindoll correctly observed, “Nothing speaks louder or more powerfully than a life of integrity.” Righteous men and women agree.
Character is built slowly over a lifetime. It is the sum of every right decision, every honest word, every noble thought, and every heartfelt prayer. It is forged on the anvil of honorable work and polished by the twin virtues of generosity and humility. Character is a precious thing—difficult to build but easy to tear down. As believers in Christ, we must seek to live each day with discipline, honesty, and faith. When we do, integrity becomes a habit.
Psalm 145 promises, “The Lord is near to all who call on Him, to all who call on Him in truth. He fulfills the desires of those who fear Him; He hears their cry and saves them. (18-20).
And the words of Jesus offer us comfort: “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).
The times that try your soul are also the times that build your character. During the darker days of life, you can learn lessons that are impossible to learn during sunny, happier days. Times of adversity can—and should—be times of intense spiritual and personal growth. But God will not force you to learn the lessons of adversity. You must learn them for yourself.
Monday, June 1, 2009
God Is Waiting For You
From: Ambassadors For Christ International - John North
Deuteronomy 4:29 "But from there you will seek the Lord your God, and you will find Him if you search for Him with all your heart and all your soul."
Chase after God with everything you’ve got! God will never be your deepest desire and the meeter of your deepest needs and the giver of your life purpose if you treat your relationship with Him casually. A truly intimate relationship only occurs if both people are giving their all to it.
God has been chasing after you your whole life. He has been revealing Himself to you, letting you grow in your understanding of His true nature, exposing you to other people who really know and walk with Him, speaking to you through His word, convicting you of things in your life that hurt your relationship with Him, encouraging you to take steps of faith, inviting you into an awesome walk with Him.
And God wants you to know today that He is waiting for you to also chase hard after Him. He is waiting for your love, waiting for you to spend time with Him and respond to His loving initiatives in your life. He is waiting for you to trust Him, to spend time in His word getting to know Him.
God is waiting for you to want Him with everything you have in you. That is when you will find Him!
Deuteronomy 4:29 "But from there you will seek the Lord your God, and you will find Him if you search for Him with all your heart and all your soul."
Chase after God with everything you’ve got! God will never be your deepest desire and the meeter of your deepest needs and the giver of your life purpose if you treat your relationship with Him casually. A truly intimate relationship only occurs if both people are giving their all to it.
God has been chasing after you your whole life. He has been revealing Himself to you, letting you grow in your understanding of His true nature, exposing you to other people who really know and walk with Him, speaking to you through His word, convicting you of things in your life that hurt your relationship with Him, encouraging you to take steps of faith, inviting you into an awesome walk with Him.
And God wants you to know today that He is waiting for you to also chase hard after Him. He is waiting for your love, waiting for you to spend time with Him and respond to His loving initiatives in your life. He is waiting for you to trust Him, to spend time in His word getting to know Him.
God is waiting for you to want Him with everything you have in you. That is when you will find Him!
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