Most of us are aware of the vulgar language used by Vice President Biden, caught on an open mic earlier this week, when introducing President Obama during the heath care reform signing. Unfortunately this is not the first time our VP has used this type of language in public. And, for the sake of bipartisanship, our previous VP, Dick Cheney, also was often heard using similar indefensible language. The fact that this is laughed off and regarded as a non-event by the media is a sad commentary on where we are today with our Country's leaders (role models of the highest order) in setting an example (character and integrity) for our children.
A few weeks ago I did notice where Biden, during a news conference, appeared to be very proud of his Christian (Catholic) faith by retaining the ashes on his forehead, received during Ash Wednesday's Mass, for an extended period of time. As a fellow Catholic, I would simply like to remind Biden of his responsibility as a mature adult, Christian parent, and as the second highest ranking leader of the most powerful nation on earth. He should be more spiritually disciplined and mature...and have much more self-awareness of the consequences of his careless speech!
High School student McKay Hatch has some great advice for Biden:
SOUTH PASADENA, Calif. -- The teenager who persuaded the California Assembly to approve a No Cussing resolution earlier this month has a message for Vice President Joe Biden: Watch your mouth.
South Pasadena High School student McKay Hatch held a news conference Friday in front of his city's post office where he asked the vice president to apologize for letting a profanity slip during a bill-signing ceremony earlier this week.
Hatch,17, said he also plans to mail Biden one of his No Cussing Club's penalty jars and an official club T-shirt.
We should applaud Hatch for his incredible witness and maturity.
Finally, this passage from Scripture (Catholic Bible) is not only for VP Biden, and former VP Cheney but for anyone who is consistently careless, thoughtless and unguarded with their language.
Sirach 23:9-10,13-15 "Let not your mouth form the habit of swearing, or becoming too familiar with the Holy Name. One who swears continually by the Holy Name will not remain free from sin. Let not your mouth become used to coarse talk, for in it lies sinful matter. Keep your father and mother in mind when you sit among the mighty, lest in their presence you commit a blunder and disgrace your upbringing. A man who has the habit of abusive language will never mature in character as long as he lives."
Note: The Book of Sirach is a work from the early second century BCE, originally written in Hebrew. Sirach is listed as one of the Deuterocanonical books, a term used since the sixteenth century to describe certain books and passages of the Christian Old testament that are not part of the Hebrew Bible. However, Sirach is accepted as part of the biblical canon by Catholics, Eastern Orthodox, and most Oriental Orthodox but not by most Protestants.
Monday, March 29, 2010
Holy Spirit Guide Us
From: Leading The Way Ministries - Michael Youssef
Psalm 143:10 "Teach me to do Your will, for you are my God; may Your good Spirit lead me on level ground."
Although all Christians have access to true spirituality through the Holy Spirit, many of them fail to understand who the Holy Spirit really is. The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity of God. He is the very Spirit of the mighty God Himself. He leads us into faithfulness and reveals God's truth and will. He equips us to do the work of God's kingdom. He guides, leads, and empowers us to live holy and righteous lives.
We must not make the mistake of trivializing or undervaluing the power and role of the Holy Spirit. He is the breath of the living God. He is the hurricane force that created the universe. He is the mighty wind that blew on the dust that formed Adam. He is the mighty wind that parted the Red Sea.
Do you feel that something is missing in your Christian walk? Are you going through the motions of attending church and worshiping God? If so, then what you are missing is the Holy Spirit. He is a gift and can breathe upon you to revive your soul and bring you active and genuine spirituality. Begin praying today, and continue every day, to invite the Holy Spirit to fill you with His presence and guide you in righteousness.
"When the Paraclete comes, the Spirit of truth Who comes from the Father and Whom I Myself will send from the Father, He will bear witness on My behalf." (John 15:26)
Psalm 143:10 "Teach me to do Your will, for you are my God; may Your good Spirit lead me on level ground."
Although all Christians have access to true spirituality through the Holy Spirit, many of them fail to understand who the Holy Spirit really is. The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity of God. He is the very Spirit of the mighty God Himself. He leads us into faithfulness and reveals God's truth and will. He equips us to do the work of God's kingdom. He guides, leads, and empowers us to live holy and righteous lives.
We must not make the mistake of trivializing or undervaluing the power and role of the Holy Spirit. He is the breath of the living God. He is the hurricane force that created the universe. He is the mighty wind that blew on the dust that formed Adam. He is the mighty wind that parted the Red Sea.
Do you feel that something is missing in your Christian walk? Are you going through the motions of attending church and worshiping God? If so, then what you are missing is the Holy Spirit. He is a gift and can breathe upon you to revive your soul and bring you active and genuine spirituality. Begin praying today, and continue every day, to invite the Holy Spirit to fill you with His presence and guide you in righteousness.
"When the Paraclete comes, the Spirit of truth Who comes from the Father and Whom I Myself will send from the Father, He will bear witness on My behalf." (John 15:26)
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Our Convictions Determine Our Conduct
From: The Purpose Driven Life Ministries
Hebrews 11:1 "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen."
Dictionaries usually define conviction as a fixed or strong belief. Conviction is really much more than that. Your convictions include your values, commitments, and motivations.
I like the definition of conviction I once heard from the great Bible teacher Howard Hendricks: "A belief is something you will argue about. A conviction is something you will die for!" Our convictions determine our conduct. They motivate us to act in certain ways.
Biblical convictions are essential for spiritual growth and maturity. What is ironic today is that people often have strong convictions about weak issues (football, fashions, etc.) while having weak convictions about major issues (what is right and what is wrong).
Think about your walk with Jesus and the convictions you now hold. Are your convictions weak on any major issues?
Hebrews 11:1 "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen."
Dictionaries usually define conviction as a fixed or strong belief. Conviction is really much more than that. Your convictions include your values, commitments, and motivations.
I like the definition of conviction I once heard from the great Bible teacher Howard Hendricks: "A belief is something you will argue about. A conviction is something you will die for!" Our convictions determine our conduct. They motivate us to act in certain ways.
Biblical convictions are essential for spiritual growth and maturity. What is ironic today is that people often have strong convictions about weak issues (football, fashions, etc.) while having weak convictions about major issues (what is right and what is wrong).
Think about your walk with Jesus and the convictions you now hold. Are your convictions weak on any major issues?
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Guard Your Inner Life
From: Ambassadors For Christ International - John North
Proverbs 4:23 "Watch over your heart with all diligence, for from it flow the springs of life."
What flows out of your life comes from inside you. This inner life—the whole non-physical part of you—is called your "heart" in the Bible.
God's clear message to us from this passage is that we must constantly work to take care of our inner lives. The pressures of deadlines and financial issues and temptation all work together to distract us from our inner lives and make us focus on our outer lives. But if you want your outer life to stay in balance and not overwhelm you, you must make your inner life your first priority.
Take time with God each day. Develop your walk with Him. Look at your priorities. Are the most important things in life coming first? Fix your gaze on them; don't be distracted.
Don't neglect your heart. Watch over it with all diligence.
If you want godliness to flow out of you, guard your inner life!
Proverbs 4:23 "Watch over your heart with all diligence, for from it flow the springs of life."
What flows out of your life comes from inside you. This inner life—the whole non-physical part of you—is called your "heart" in the Bible.
God's clear message to us from this passage is that we must constantly work to take care of our inner lives. The pressures of deadlines and financial issues and temptation all work together to distract us from our inner lives and make us focus on our outer lives. But if you want your outer life to stay in balance and not overwhelm you, you must make your inner life your first priority.
Take time with God each day. Develop your walk with Him. Look at your priorities. Are the most important things in life coming first? Fix your gaze on them; don't be distracted.
Don't neglect your heart. Watch over it with all diligence.
If you want godliness to flow out of you, guard your inner life!
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Patience Comes By Silence
From: The Word For Today - Bob Gass Ministries
Psalm 84:12 "No good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly."
Often the toughest times in life are those moments when all we know about God doesn't seem to help or get us the results we want. That's when we learn about His silence. Whenever God doesn't say a word, He's teaching, even in stillness. He's allowing us to grow by forcing us to think, study and arrive at conclusions while He stands by like the loving parent He is.
Faith comes by hearing, but patience comes by silence. Patience is what God gives you when bad things remain unchanged. It's His sedative for the troubled heart. It's the balm He rubs into your aching muscles when it feels like you're being stretched to the breaking point. These are the times when the pain lasts so long that only God can release the patience required - the sheer grace to get you through it.
There are great benefits to waiting. For example, if you learn to wait and observe, you'll make better choices. The thing you think you can't live without today, you may be glad to live without tomorrow. "No good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly." So when God says, "Wait," trust Him. Either it's not what you need at this time, or He has something better in mind for you.
You say, "But what am I going to do in the meantime?" The Bible says, "Wait on the Lord; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart… " (Psalm 27:14) Stop fussing, stop pushing, allow God to work and you'll come out of this stronger and with a better result.
Psalm 84:12 "No good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly."
Often the toughest times in life are those moments when all we know about God doesn't seem to help or get us the results we want. That's when we learn about His silence. Whenever God doesn't say a word, He's teaching, even in stillness. He's allowing us to grow by forcing us to think, study and arrive at conclusions while He stands by like the loving parent He is.
Faith comes by hearing, but patience comes by silence. Patience is what God gives you when bad things remain unchanged. It's His sedative for the troubled heart. It's the balm He rubs into your aching muscles when it feels like you're being stretched to the breaking point. These are the times when the pain lasts so long that only God can release the patience required - the sheer grace to get you through it.
There are great benefits to waiting. For example, if you learn to wait and observe, you'll make better choices. The thing you think you can't live without today, you may be glad to live without tomorrow. "No good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly." So when God says, "Wait," trust Him. Either it's not what you need at this time, or He has something better in mind for you.
You say, "But what am I going to do in the meantime?" The Bible says, "Wait on the Lord; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart… " (Psalm 27:14) Stop fussing, stop pushing, allow God to work and you'll come out of this stronger and with a better result.
Monday, March 22, 2010
No Loopholes In Love
From: Paul Wallace Ministries
Matthew 22:37-39 "Jesus replied: 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself.'"
It has been said that W.C. Fields on his deathbed was caught by a friend reading the Bible. Quite surprised he said, "I did not know you were a religious man W.C." Flipping through the pages of Scripture Fields replied, "Are you kidding? I'm just looking for loopholes."
The law, given to Moses in the Old Testament, may have had loopholes by which we could avoid a cost to self. The Spirit closes all those loopholes and directs us to a love like Jesus' love. How in tune with the Spirit's direction have you allowed your life to be? Those who are led by the Spirit are the children of God (Romans 8:14). The only way to fulfill these two great laws is to be led of the Spirit.
What does it mean to love the Lord our God with our all in a given situation. The Spirit of God, indwelling those who receive Christ, reveals that to us. He guides us into all truth. He directs us into an expression of the love that pleases the heart of God and brings the kingdom of God into our lives and those with whom we interact. Jesus shows how to express love toward our neighbor. He redefined the word 'neighbor' to include anyone we come in contact with.
Consider: What has the Spirit of God been directing me to do?
Matthew 22:37-39 "Jesus replied: 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself.'"
It has been said that W.C. Fields on his deathbed was caught by a friend reading the Bible. Quite surprised he said, "I did not know you were a religious man W.C." Flipping through the pages of Scripture Fields replied, "Are you kidding? I'm just looking for loopholes."
The law, given to Moses in the Old Testament, may have had loopholes by which we could avoid a cost to self. The Spirit closes all those loopholes and directs us to a love like Jesus' love. How in tune with the Spirit's direction have you allowed your life to be? Those who are led by the Spirit are the children of God (Romans 8:14). The only way to fulfill these two great laws is to be led of the Spirit.
What does it mean to love the Lord our God with our all in a given situation. The Spirit of God, indwelling those who receive Christ, reveals that to us. He guides us into all truth. He directs us into an expression of the love that pleases the heart of God and brings the kingdom of God into our lives and those with whom we interact. Jesus shows how to express love toward our neighbor. He redefined the word 'neighbor' to include anyone we come in contact with.
Consider: What has the Spirit of God been directing me to do?
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Absolute Trust In Christ
From: InTouch Ministries
Psalm 37:5 "Commit your way to the Lord; trust that He will act."
Throughout Scripture, we are encouraged to trust in the Lord. When times are good, this doesn't seem like a difficult task. However, when trials arise, it is much more difficult to rely fully upon Him.
Yet it is always important for us to place our trust in the living God, especially when everything around us seems to be falling apart. That may well have been the situation that inspired the writing of Psalm 37.
Distress over a situation is the opposite of trust, and fretting has ill effects. For one thing, it can take a toll on physical and emotional wellbeing. Another problem is that feeding worry can lead to evildoing: by attempting to manage the situation quickly in our human way, we may miss God's best solution. A third consequence is that others may not enjoy our company, so we could lose our effective witness for the kingdom.
What, then, is the antidote for worry and stress during a difficult time? Absolute trust in Christ. Psalm 55:22 says, "Cast your burden upon the Lord, and He will sustain you; He will never allow the righteous to be shaken." This means we are to lay all our burdens at His feet, believing that He is good, loving, and in control.
When trials arise, do you run toward the Lord? Or do you try to handle things yourself? He who created you can handle any difficulty and pain, even when it seems overwhelming. What He desires is your surrender and trust. It is in His arms that you will find rest for your soul.
Psalm 37:5 "Commit your way to the Lord; trust that He will act."
Throughout Scripture, we are encouraged to trust in the Lord. When times are good, this doesn't seem like a difficult task. However, when trials arise, it is much more difficult to rely fully upon Him.
Yet it is always important for us to place our trust in the living God, especially when everything around us seems to be falling apart. That may well have been the situation that inspired the writing of Psalm 37.
Distress over a situation is the opposite of trust, and fretting has ill effects. For one thing, it can take a toll on physical and emotional wellbeing. Another problem is that feeding worry can lead to evildoing: by attempting to manage the situation quickly in our human way, we may miss God's best solution. A third consequence is that others may not enjoy our company, so we could lose our effective witness for the kingdom.
What, then, is the antidote for worry and stress during a difficult time? Absolute trust in Christ. Psalm 55:22 says, "Cast your burden upon the Lord, and He will sustain you; He will never allow the righteous to be shaken." This means we are to lay all our burdens at His feet, believing that He is good, loving, and in control.
When trials arise, do you run toward the Lord? Or do you try to handle things yourself? He who created you can handle any difficulty and pain, even when it seems overwhelming. What He desires is your surrender and trust. It is in His arms that you will find rest for your soul.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Put God First In Everything
From: Ambassadors For Christ International - John North
Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not rely on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight."
"He will make your paths straight"—that is, the way forward will be obvious to you, and God will remove the obstacles that would keep you from following His will for you. It sounds wonderful, doesn't it? But why are we not experiencing it every day? Notice that there are three conditions to this promise.
Trust in the Lord. When you sense Him leading you and you don't know where you will end up or how you will get through, obey Him anyway. Act on the reality that God is there. If He leads you, you can trust Him. This is not just verbal trust, but the kind that is with all your heart!
Don't rely on your own understanding. Don't try to be the master of your own fate. Don't get the idea that you can plan your way through life. Recognize that you desperately need God's hand in your life, both guiding you and enabling you.
In all your ways acknowledge Him. Make sure that your life shows that God is the One you honor, love and obey.
Meet these three conditions and you can rest in the reality of God's guiding hand.
If you want God to lead you in life, put Him first in everything!
Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not rely on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight."
"He will make your paths straight"—that is, the way forward will be obvious to you, and God will remove the obstacles that would keep you from following His will for you. It sounds wonderful, doesn't it? But why are we not experiencing it every day? Notice that there are three conditions to this promise.
Trust in the Lord. When you sense Him leading you and you don't know where you will end up or how you will get through, obey Him anyway. Act on the reality that God is there. If He leads you, you can trust Him. This is not just verbal trust, but the kind that is with all your heart!
Don't rely on your own understanding. Don't try to be the master of your own fate. Don't get the idea that you can plan your way through life. Recognize that you desperately need God's hand in your life, both guiding you and enabling you.
In all your ways acknowledge Him. Make sure that your life shows that God is the One you honor, love and obey.
Meet these three conditions and you can rest in the reality of God's guiding hand.
If you want God to lead you in life, put Him first in everything!
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Our Primary Goal
From: My Utmost For His Highest Devotionals - Oswald Chambers
2 Corinthians 5:9 "We make it our aim . . . to be well pleasing to Him."
It requires a conscious decision and effort to keep our primary goal constantly in front of us. It means holding ourselves to the highest priority year in and year out, seeking only "to be well pleasing to Him." It is not a lack of spiritual experience that leads to failure, but a lack of working to keep our eyes focused and on the right goal. We should examine ourselves often, before God, to see if our life is measuring up to the standard He has for us.
Any goal we have that diverts us even to the slightest degree from the central goal of being "acceptable to God" (2 Timothy 2:15) may result in our rejection from further service for Him. When you discern where the goal leads, you will understand why it is so necessary to keep "looking unto Jesus." (Hebrews 12:2)
We must learn to relate everything to the primary goal, maintaining it without interruption. Our worth to God publicly is measured by what we really are in our private life. Is our primary goal in life to please Him and to be acceptable to Him, or is it something less, no matter how lofty it may sound?
"I continue my pursuit toward the goal, the prize of God's upward calling, in Christ Jesus. We must have this attitude. If you see it another way, God will clarify the difficulty for you." (Philippians 3:14-15)
2 Corinthians 5:9 "We make it our aim . . . to be well pleasing to Him."
It requires a conscious decision and effort to keep our primary goal constantly in front of us. It means holding ourselves to the highest priority year in and year out, seeking only "to be well pleasing to Him." It is not a lack of spiritual experience that leads to failure, but a lack of working to keep our eyes focused and on the right goal. We should examine ourselves often, before God, to see if our life is measuring up to the standard He has for us.
Any goal we have that diverts us even to the slightest degree from the central goal of being "acceptable to God" (2 Timothy 2:15) may result in our rejection from further service for Him. When you discern where the goal leads, you will understand why it is so necessary to keep "looking unto Jesus." (Hebrews 12:2)
We must learn to relate everything to the primary goal, maintaining it without interruption. Our worth to God publicly is measured by what we really are in our private life. Is our primary goal in life to please Him and to be acceptable to Him, or is it something less, no matter how lofty it may sound?
"I continue my pursuit toward the goal, the prize of God's upward calling, in Christ Jesus. We must have this attitude. If you see it another way, God will clarify the difficulty for you." (Philippians 3:14-15)
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Don't Let Worry Take Up Residence
From: The Word For Today - Bob Gass
Psalm 55:22 "Cast your care upon the Lord, Who will give you support."
When worry comes knocking on your door, stop it on the doorstep or it will move in and take up residence. "Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you." (1 Peter 5:7) God cares about the things that worry you and prey upon your thoughts. He cares about them more than you do. Not one nagging, aching, worrisome, gut-wrenching, blood-pressure-raising thought escapes His notice. Because "you are His personal concern", He watches over you day and night.
What qualifies as a worry? Anything that robs you of joy, anything you can't change, anything you're not responsible for, anything you're unable to control, anything that torments you, anything that keeps you awake when you should be asleep. All of that "stuff" needs to be transferred from your worry list to your prayer list.
The Bible says, "Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done. Then you will experience God's peace…" (Philippians 4:6-7) Give each worry, one by one, to God. The more you practice doing this, the more exciting your walk with Him will become. You'll be amazed at how easily He handles things that overwhelm you.
Remind yourself that He's able to handle it, willing to handle it, and waiting for you to give it to Him. "Cast your care upon the Lord, Who will give you support." Those who live worry free are those who keep casting their burdens on the Lord until it becomes as natural to them as breathing!
Psalm 55:22 "Cast your care upon the Lord, Who will give you support."
When worry comes knocking on your door, stop it on the doorstep or it will move in and take up residence. "Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you." (1 Peter 5:7) God cares about the things that worry you and prey upon your thoughts. He cares about them more than you do. Not one nagging, aching, worrisome, gut-wrenching, blood-pressure-raising thought escapes His notice. Because "you are His personal concern", He watches over you day and night.
What qualifies as a worry? Anything that robs you of joy, anything you can't change, anything you're not responsible for, anything you're unable to control, anything that torments you, anything that keeps you awake when you should be asleep. All of that "stuff" needs to be transferred from your worry list to your prayer list.
The Bible says, "Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done. Then you will experience God's peace…" (Philippians 4:6-7) Give each worry, one by one, to God. The more you practice doing this, the more exciting your walk with Him will become. You'll be amazed at how easily He handles things that overwhelm you.
Remind yourself that He's able to handle it, willing to handle it, and waiting for you to give it to Him. "Cast your care upon the Lord, Who will give you support." Those who live worry free are those who keep casting their burdens on the Lord until it becomes as natural to them as breathing!
Monday, March 15, 2010
An Amazing Gift
From: BBH Daily Devotionals
Psalm 32:8 "I will instruct you and show you the way you should walk, give you counsel and watch over you."
How good is your vision? Can you see accurately up to 20 feet? Maybe even 50 feet? Only about 35 percent of all adults have 20/20 vision without correction, but maybe you are among the fortunate, better-than-average group. Even so, can you see into the future? What about into the hearts of your friends? Are you able to see every possible outcome of any given choice?
When we consider the limitations of our vision, no matter who we are, we come to realize what an incredible privilege is offered to us, by God Himself. He promises to instruct and inform us of the correct paths to take in life, using—not our finite and limited vision—but His perfect, all-seeing, all-knowing eye as our guide. The One Who knows all ends offers to lead us to the perfect destination for each of us!
Knowing that each of us faces a myriad of hair-pulling, gut-wrenching decisions at different times in our lives—and recognizing that even the smallest decisions can have big ramifications for our lives—what an amazing gift this is! And, yet, so many of us prefer to stumble blindly through the deadly obstacle course of this world, setting our own course and choosing our own turns, just so that we can say, "I did it my way."
If you are wrestling today with difficult decisions, know that God's perfect wisdom and vision is available to you—it is only a prayer away. When we go to God, asking His help and looking into His Word for direction, He gives us this guarantee: "I will instruct you and show you the way you should walk, give you counsel and watch over you."
Psalm 32:8 "I will instruct you and show you the way you should walk, give you counsel and watch over you."
How good is your vision? Can you see accurately up to 20 feet? Maybe even 50 feet? Only about 35 percent of all adults have 20/20 vision without correction, but maybe you are among the fortunate, better-than-average group. Even so, can you see into the future? What about into the hearts of your friends? Are you able to see every possible outcome of any given choice?
When we consider the limitations of our vision, no matter who we are, we come to realize what an incredible privilege is offered to us, by God Himself. He promises to instruct and inform us of the correct paths to take in life, using—not our finite and limited vision—but His perfect, all-seeing, all-knowing eye as our guide. The One Who knows all ends offers to lead us to the perfect destination for each of us!
Knowing that each of us faces a myriad of hair-pulling, gut-wrenching decisions at different times in our lives—and recognizing that even the smallest decisions can have big ramifications for our lives—what an amazing gift this is! And, yet, so many of us prefer to stumble blindly through the deadly obstacle course of this world, setting our own course and choosing our own turns, just so that we can say, "I did it my way."
If you are wrestling today with difficult decisions, know that God's perfect wisdom and vision is available to you—it is only a prayer away. When we go to God, asking His help and looking into His Word for direction, He gives us this guarantee: "I will instruct you and show you the way you should walk, give you counsel and watch over you."
Sunday, March 14, 2010
God's Weapon For Spiritual Battle
From: Ambassadors For Christ International - John North
Ephesians 6:13,17 "Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. …take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God."
The reality is that every one of us is involved in a spiritual battle. The real struggle of your life is not relational conflict or financial difficulties—the real struggle is in your spiritual life. Have you learned to trust God with the issues of your life yet? Have you put Jesus Christ on the throne of your life? Have you made yourself available to Him? If you are trying to win the spiritual battle of your life without your weapon, what chance do you have of victory? None.
Have you been trying to fight the spiritual battle and do what is right and walk with God, but you find yourself losing the battle at every turn? Do you find conflict and anxiety dominating your life? Are you trying to fight your battles with your Bible closed?
God is challenging you today to use the Scriptures as a central part of your daily life. The Bible is a powerful spiritual weapon in your life in the hands of the Holy Spirit, but only if you open it!
The Bible is God's weapon for the spiritual battle in my life!
Ephesians 6:13,17 "Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. …take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God."
The reality is that every one of us is involved in a spiritual battle. The real struggle of your life is not relational conflict or financial difficulties—the real struggle is in your spiritual life. Have you learned to trust God with the issues of your life yet? Have you put Jesus Christ on the throne of your life? Have you made yourself available to Him? If you are trying to win the spiritual battle of your life without your weapon, what chance do you have of victory? None.
Have you been trying to fight the spiritual battle and do what is right and walk with God, but you find yourself losing the battle at every turn? Do you find conflict and anxiety dominating your life? Are you trying to fight your battles with your Bible closed?
God is challenging you today to use the Scriptures as a central part of your daily life. The Bible is a powerful spiritual weapon in your life in the hands of the Holy Spirit, but only if you open it!
The Bible is God's weapon for the spiritual battle in my life!
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
The Bible
From: Ambassadors For Christ International - John North
2 Timothy 3:16 "All Scripture is inspired by God and is profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness."
When you buy a new piece of equipment, the maker supplies an instruction manual with it, to help you get the most from it. If you don't follow the instructions in the manual it voids your warranty and can lead to disaster.
Someone has said that B-I-B-L-E stands for "Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth." When God placed us here on earth, He provided an instruction manual so that we could make the most of our lives. How foolish we would be not to study that manual!
The Bible is "profitable for teaching"—that is, it shows us how to live life. It guides us with God's life-principles. Life is good and right when we live life God's way. The Bible is also "for reproof"—when we go off God's path for our lives He uses the Bible to get our attention and show us where we went wrong.
And the Bible is also "for correction"—it shows us the way back to God. Very often God uses His Word to convict us about steps we need to take in our spiritual lives. And the Bible is "for training in righteousness"—when we have renewed our walk with God the Bible keeps us going that way.
Take a moment to speak with God about what His Word means to you.
2 Timothy 3:16 "All Scripture is inspired by God and is profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness."
When you buy a new piece of equipment, the maker supplies an instruction manual with it, to help you get the most from it. If you don't follow the instructions in the manual it voids your warranty and can lead to disaster.
Someone has said that B-I-B-L-E stands for "Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth." When God placed us here on earth, He provided an instruction manual so that we could make the most of our lives. How foolish we would be not to study that manual!
The Bible is "profitable for teaching"—that is, it shows us how to live life. It guides us with God's life-principles. Life is good and right when we live life God's way. The Bible is also "for reproof"—when we go off God's path for our lives He uses the Bible to get our attention and show us where we went wrong.
And the Bible is also "for correction"—it shows us the way back to God. Very often God uses His Word to convict us about steps we need to take in our spiritual lives. And the Bible is "for training in righteousness"—when we have renewed our walk with God the Bible keeps us going that way.
Take a moment to speak with God about what His Word means to you.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Stay Tuned In
From: The Purpose Driven Life Ministries
Job 33:14 "God does speak—sometimes one way and sometimes another—even though people may not understand it."
Did you know that the room you are in right now is filled with radio waves? You can't see them but if you had the right type of receiver - like a radio - to tune them in, you'd be able to hear them. God designed you to hear His voice. There is a receiver in you that allows you to get guidance from God. We don't understand when we're not tuned in.
What channels does God use? The primary way that God speaks is through the Bible. The Bible is God's guide book. It's like a road map to guide us along the way. It helps you negotiate the mazes you face in life, giving you the directions you need.
God also speaks through godly Bible teachers. Have you ever been in church or at a Bible study and you feel like the teacher is speaking directly to you? In that moment, God is speaking directly to you.
God not only speaks through teachers, he also speaks through every Christian. He even speaks through you. If you'll stay in tune to Him and learn His Word, sometimes God will use you to say things to people that He wants to say to them. It's not something special reserved only for pastors; God speaks through every believer at different times.
God also speaks through your circumstances and your pain. God whispers to us in our pleasure, but He shouts to us in our pain.
God is speaking all the time. But we must listen. Tune in to God and He will lead you on the right path. After we ask in faith for God's guidance, we need to listen for God's response!
Job 33:14 "God does speak—sometimes one way and sometimes another—even though people may not understand it."
Did you know that the room you are in right now is filled with radio waves? You can't see them but if you had the right type of receiver - like a radio - to tune them in, you'd be able to hear them. God designed you to hear His voice. There is a receiver in you that allows you to get guidance from God. We don't understand when we're not tuned in.
What channels does God use? The primary way that God speaks is through the Bible. The Bible is God's guide book. It's like a road map to guide us along the way. It helps you negotiate the mazes you face in life, giving you the directions you need.
God also speaks through godly Bible teachers. Have you ever been in church or at a Bible study and you feel like the teacher is speaking directly to you? In that moment, God is speaking directly to you.
God not only speaks through teachers, he also speaks through every Christian. He even speaks through you. If you'll stay in tune to Him and learn His Word, sometimes God will use you to say things to people that He wants to say to them. It's not something special reserved only for pastors; God speaks through every believer at different times.
God also speaks through your circumstances and your pain. God whispers to us in our pleasure, but He shouts to us in our pain.
God is speaking all the time. But we must listen. Tune in to God and He will lead you on the right path. After we ask in faith for God's guidance, we need to listen for God's response!
Monday, March 8, 2010
Ask God For Wisdom
From: The Word For Today - Bob Gass Ministries
Luke 21:15 "I will give you words and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to… contradict."
God doesn't issue rules and regulations for every moment; instead, He provides guidelines and principles and allows us to make decisions. That's because He's glorified when we choose to consult, trust and obey Him. James writes, "If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all…. " (James 1:5)
You haven't really begun to live until you've learned to tap into God's wisdom. When you do you'll be amazed how clearly things come into focus.
With God's wisdom comes a remarkable absence of fear. We're no longer intimidated by circumstances or the opinions of those around us. We can lose a job or get promoted, and neither will derail us. We can get into an unexpected valley or soar to the pinnacle of success, and cope equally well with both. That's because the wisdom of God gives us balance, insight and stability. None of these is a natural trait; each is a by-product of the wisdom that comes from God. We don't get them simply because we're Christians. No, we get them because we ask for them. Remember God's response to King Solomon when he was given the option to ask for anything and he asked simply for wisdom to rule God's people justly: "The Lord was pleased that Solomon made this request." (1 Kings 3:10)
God's wisdom provides us with the sixth sense needed in confusing situations, and the strength to press on confidently in spite of unanswered questions. Do you need wisdom today? Spend time with the One who said, "I will give you words and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to… contradict."
Luke 21:15 "I will give you words and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to… contradict."
God doesn't issue rules and regulations for every moment; instead, He provides guidelines and principles and allows us to make decisions. That's because He's glorified when we choose to consult, trust and obey Him. James writes, "If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all…. " (James 1:5)
You haven't really begun to live until you've learned to tap into God's wisdom. When you do you'll be amazed how clearly things come into focus.
With God's wisdom comes a remarkable absence of fear. We're no longer intimidated by circumstances or the opinions of those around us. We can lose a job or get promoted, and neither will derail us. We can get into an unexpected valley or soar to the pinnacle of success, and cope equally well with both. That's because the wisdom of God gives us balance, insight and stability. None of these is a natural trait; each is a by-product of the wisdom that comes from God. We don't get them simply because we're Christians. No, we get them because we ask for them. Remember God's response to King Solomon when he was given the option to ask for anything and he asked simply for wisdom to rule God's people justly: "The Lord was pleased that Solomon made this request." (1 Kings 3:10)
God's wisdom provides us with the sixth sense needed in confusing situations, and the strength to press on confidently in spite of unanswered questions. Do you need wisdom today? Spend time with the One who said, "I will give you words and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to… contradict."
Sunday, March 7, 2010
The Next shot
From: Powerpoint Ministries - Jack Graham
Romans 8:28 "We know that God makes all things work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose."
There's a debate among golfers as to which shot is most important. Some say that it's the tee shot, because you need to get the ball down the fairway. But others say that it's the putt, because ultimately, you have to put the ball in the cup.
Well, these are both important shots, but the most important shot in golf is the very next shot you're going to hit, whatever it is. You see, no one plays golf perfectly, not even the best players in the world. But if you don't take that next shot, then you're not playing the game.
And when it comes to doing the will of God, you and I won't always do it perfectly, either. Sometimes we get off track or make a bad choice. But God doesn't want you to give up on faith because you've made a mistake. Don't let a bad decision lead to a series of bad choices, or one bad day lead to a string of bad days.
If you let him, God will take your mistakes and missteps and put you back on a track that glorifies Him!
Romans 8:28 "We know that God makes all things work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose."
There's a debate among golfers as to which shot is most important. Some say that it's the tee shot, because you need to get the ball down the fairway. But others say that it's the putt, because ultimately, you have to put the ball in the cup.
Well, these are both important shots, but the most important shot in golf is the very next shot you're going to hit, whatever it is. You see, no one plays golf perfectly, not even the best players in the world. But if you don't take that next shot, then you're not playing the game.
And when it comes to doing the will of God, you and I won't always do it perfectly, either. Sometimes we get off track or make a bad choice. But God doesn't want you to give up on faith because you've made a mistake. Don't let a bad decision lead to a series of bad choices, or one bad day lead to a string of bad days.
If you let him, God will take your mistakes and missteps and put you back on a track that glorifies Him!
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Important Decisions
From: Powerpoint Daily Devotionals - Jack Graham
Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not rely on your own understanding. In all things be mindful of Him and He will direct your paths."
Do you have some important decisions to make? Maybe you need to make critical choices about a relationship, your career, or concerning your children.
Well, regardless of the choices that may be before you, God cares about the decisions you and I will make. And if we let Him, He will guide us to make choices that honor Him and that will bless us.
So let me share a few suggestions that can help you better understand the will of God:
• First, our choices must align with the moral will of God. The Spirit will never lead us to do anything contrary to the Scripture, His truths, or principles.
• Second, seek godly advice. Now, don't seek just anyone's opinion. Talk to people who know the Scripture, who are personally following God's will, and who care about your spiritual faithfulness and growth.
• Third, consider how your choice will impact your immediate relationships. We don't live in isolation, so we must consider how decisions will touch our immediate family and dearest friends.
• Fourth and finally, ask yourself, "What's my motive for making this decision?" Your motive should be honest, sincere, and ultimately, needs to glorify God.
Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not rely on your own understanding. In all things be mindful of Him and He will direct your paths."
Do you have some important decisions to make? Maybe you need to make critical choices about a relationship, your career, or concerning your children.
Well, regardless of the choices that may be before you, God cares about the decisions you and I will make. And if we let Him, He will guide us to make choices that honor Him and that will bless us.
So let me share a few suggestions that can help you better understand the will of God:
• First, our choices must align with the moral will of God. The Spirit will never lead us to do anything contrary to the Scripture, His truths, or principles.
• Second, seek godly advice. Now, don't seek just anyone's opinion. Talk to people who know the Scripture, who are personally following God's will, and who care about your spiritual faithfulness and growth.
• Third, consider how your choice will impact your immediate relationships. We don't live in isolation, so we must consider how decisions will touch our immediate family and dearest friends.
• Fourth and finally, ask yourself, "What's my motive for making this decision?" Your motive should be honest, sincere, and ultimately, needs to glorify God.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
A Still Small Voice
From: Powerpoint Daily Devotionals
Psalm 46:10 "Be still, and know that I am God."
Life isn't about fate or luck, and it's certainly not a formula. You see, God is personally and providentially working in your life and mine. He's providing guidance and direction. He's actively at work to perform His will in your life and mine. And God is speaking directly to us.
So let me ask you, do you recognize His voice? Are you taking time to listen to God?
When God spoke to Elijah (I Kings 19:12), it was in a "low whisper," or what another translation calls, "a still small voice." But listen, if you're in a rush from the moment you get out of bed, it's going to be hard to listen for God's voice. That's why the psalmist wrote, "Be still, and know that I am God."
You see, it's important to set aside time each day to be still in His presence, to ask for His help and direction, but even more importantly, to listen to what God is saying to you. He longs to spend time with you. Learn His voice and follow Him.
Psalm 46:10 "Be still, and know that I am God."
Life isn't about fate or luck, and it's certainly not a formula. You see, God is personally and providentially working in your life and mine. He's providing guidance and direction. He's actively at work to perform His will in your life and mine. And God is speaking directly to us.
So let me ask you, do you recognize His voice? Are you taking time to listen to God?
When God spoke to Elijah (I Kings 19:12), it was in a "low whisper," or what another translation calls, "a still small voice." But listen, if you're in a rush from the moment you get out of bed, it's going to be hard to listen for God's voice. That's why the psalmist wrote, "Be still, and know that I am God."
You see, it's important to set aside time each day to be still in His presence, to ask for His help and direction, but even more importantly, to listen to what God is saying to you. He longs to spend time with you. Learn His voice and follow Him.
Get Ready
From: Ambassadors For Christ International - John North
Ephesians 6:12-13 "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm."
You must prepare yourself spiritually to face hard times before they come! The reality is that when hard times come, they come with a vengeance. You have no time then to say, "I had better get ready for this." No, you are either ready, or not.
Here, God is saying to you that hard times will come to you sooner or later. There are forces of evil in this world and they are opposed to God's plan of making you more like Jesus Christ. They want to leave you in despair, depression and discouragement. And so they instigate suffering in your life.
God's reminding you today that these tough times aren't just something to be endured. Rather, they are attacks on your spiritual life. God wants to use them to build you up; Satan wants to use them to destroy your walk with God.
Get ready for these attacks by cultivating your daily spiritual walk with God, soaking up His Word, renewing your mind with Truth, and developing a ministry mindset toward those around you.
Ephesians 6:12-13 "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm."
You must prepare yourself spiritually to face hard times before they come! The reality is that when hard times come, they come with a vengeance. You have no time then to say, "I had better get ready for this." No, you are either ready, or not.
Here, God is saying to you that hard times will come to you sooner or later. There are forces of evil in this world and they are opposed to God's plan of making you more like Jesus Christ. They want to leave you in despair, depression and discouragement. And so they instigate suffering in your life.
God's reminding you today that these tough times aren't just something to be endured. Rather, they are attacks on your spiritual life. God wants to use them to build you up; Satan wants to use them to destroy your walk with God.
Get ready for these attacks by cultivating your daily spiritual walk with God, soaking up His Word, renewing your mind with Truth, and developing a ministry mindset toward those around you.
Monday, March 1, 2010
Filled With The Holy Spirit
From: Today God Is First - Os Hillman
John 14:26 "The Paraclete, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, will instruct you in everything, and remind you of all that I told you."
Billy Graham, the great evangelist, shared a personal story about the role of the Holy Spirit in his life-long ministry and how he came to see the importance of being filled with the Holy Spirit.
"In my life there have been times when I have had the sense of being filled with the Spirit, knowing that some special strength was added for some task I was being called to perform. In 1954 we sailed for England for a crusade that was to last for three months. While on the ship, I experienced a definite sense of oppression. Satan seemed to have assembled a formidable array of his artillery against me. Almost night and day I prayed. I knew in a new way what Paul was telling us when he spoke about 'praying without ceasing.' Then one day in a prayer meeting, as I wept before the Lord, I was filled with deep assurance that power belonged to God and He was faithful. From that moment on I was confident that God the Holy Spirit was in control for the tasks that lay ahead. That proved true."
As a believer, God has provided the Holy Spirit for you and I so that we can experience the power of the gospel that allows us to live the Christian life.
Today, if you have not done so, invite the Holy Spirit to fill your life to overflowing so that you can be a witness in your workplace, city and nation.
John 14:26 "The Paraclete, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, will instruct you in everything, and remind you of all that I told you."
Billy Graham, the great evangelist, shared a personal story about the role of the Holy Spirit in his life-long ministry and how he came to see the importance of being filled with the Holy Spirit.
"In my life there have been times when I have had the sense of being filled with the Spirit, knowing that some special strength was added for some task I was being called to perform. In 1954 we sailed for England for a crusade that was to last for three months. While on the ship, I experienced a definite sense of oppression. Satan seemed to have assembled a formidable array of his artillery against me. Almost night and day I prayed. I knew in a new way what Paul was telling us when he spoke about 'praying without ceasing.' Then one day in a prayer meeting, as I wept before the Lord, I was filled with deep assurance that power belonged to God and He was faithful. From that moment on I was confident that God the Holy Spirit was in control for the tasks that lay ahead. That proved true."
As a believer, God has provided the Holy Spirit for you and I so that we can experience the power of the gospel that allows us to live the Christian life.
Today, if you have not done so, invite the Holy Spirit to fill your life to overflowing so that you can be a witness in your workplace, city and nation.
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