From: New Life Daily Devotions - Steve Arterburn
Philippians 4:8 "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."
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 decide on them for yourself.
God has given you free will, including the ability to influence the direction and the tone of your thoughts. 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 complaining, resist that temptation 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. - John Maxwell
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Monday, May 30, 2011
The Best Decision
From: InTouch Ministries
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."
With so many voices clamoring for us to follow worldly paths, we sometimes struggle to hear and apply God’s wisdom. Godly wisdom is the capacity to view things as the Lord does and to respond according to biblical principles. This discernment isn’t automatic. We all have the choice (free will) whether or not to pursue the wise way.
If a person is going to walk wisely, he or she must commit to remaining on the right path—that is, to determine in the heart, "I will follow God no matter what." Pleasing the Lord and conforming to His likeness are always the right things to do.
Resolving to honor the Lord transforms the way that believers make decisions. Instead of following instincts or impulses, I choose to seek God’s viewpoint in a given situation by searching the Scriptures. As a result, the Holy Spirit’s quiet voice becomes easier to discern, and those worldly shouts fade.
You have a loving heavenly Father who honors the heartfelt commitment to walk according to His will. Following Him is always the best decision.
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."
With so many voices clamoring for us to follow worldly paths, we sometimes struggle to hear and apply God’s wisdom. Godly wisdom is the capacity to view things as the Lord does and to respond according to biblical principles. This discernment isn’t automatic. We all have the choice (free will) whether or not to pursue the wise way.
If a person is going to walk wisely, he or she must commit to remaining on the right path—that is, to determine in the heart, "I will follow God no matter what." Pleasing the Lord and conforming to His likeness are always the right things to do.
Resolving to honor the Lord transforms the way that believers make decisions. Instead of following instincts or impulses, I choose to seek God’s viewpoint in a given situation by searching the Scriptures. As a result, the Holy Spirit’s quiet voice becomes easier to discern, and those worldly shouts fade.
You have a loving heavenly Father who honors the heartfelt commitment to walk according to His will. Following Him is always the best decision.
Sunday, May 29, 2011
The Big Picture
From: InTouch Ministries
Isaiah 55:9 "As high as the Heavens are above the earth, so high are My ways above your ways and My thoughts above your thoughts."
When we are in the midst of a trial, it is hard to resist crying out, "God, Why is this happening?" Sometimes we get the answer and sometimes we don’t. What we can be sure of is that nothing happens by accident or coincidence. He has a purpose for even our most painful experiences. Moreover, we have His promise to "cause all things to work together for good to those who love God." (Romans 8:28)
Seeing in advance how the Lord will work evil or hurt for our benefit is very difficult, if not impossible. My limited human perspective doesn’t allow me to grasp His greater plan.
As believers, we must accept that God won’t always make sense to us. Isaiah teaches that His ways and thoughts are higher than our own. He sees the beautifully completed big picture. We can rely on the fact that God is in control, no matter how wildly off-kilter our world seems to spin.
Isaiah 55:9 "As high as the Heavens are above the earth, so high are My ways above your ways and My thoughts above your thoughts."
When we are in the midst of a trial, it is hard to resist crying out, "God, Why is this happening?" Sometimes we get the answer and sometimes we don’t. What we can be sure of is that nothing happens by accident or coincidence. He has a purpose for even our most painful experiences. Moreover, we have His promise to "cause all things to work together for good to those who love God." (Romans 8:28)
Seeing in advance how the Lord will work evil or hurt for our benefit is very difficult, if not impossible. My limited human perspective doesn’t allow me to grasp His greater plan.
As believers, we must accept that God won’t always make sense to us. Isaiah teaches that His ways and thoughts are higher than our own. He sees the beautifully completed big picture. We can rely on the fact that God is in control, no matter how wildly off-kilter our world seems to spin.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Faith Over Fear
From: Bryant Wright Ministries
Isaiah 41:10 "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
So often in the journey of faith, God leads us to what seems like a dead end, and we can be overcome with a sense of doom. Our human tendency is to take our eyes off of God, look at the problem before us and feel overwhelmed with fear and anxiety. And when fear floods in, faith floods out!
How can you handle these times that seem so hopeless? When your back is against the wall, choose faith over fear. Stand firm in the faith and put your trust in God.
Realize that these frightening moments are only a temporary dead end. God will lead us to the point where we can no longer help ourselves and must trust in God alone. Then God goes to work, and He is glorified in a way greater than ever before. We are called to choose faith over fear, and trust that in God's game plan, there are no permanent dead ends!
Isaiah 41:10 "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
So often in the journey of faith, God leads us to what seems like a dead end, and we can be overcome with a sense of doom. Our human tendency is to take our eyes off of God, look at the problem before us and feel overwhelmed with fear and anxiety. And when fear floods in, faith floods out!
How can you handle these times that seem so hopeless? When your back is against the wall, choose faith over fear. Stand firm in the faith and put your trust in God.
Realize that these frightening moments are only a temporary dead end. God will lead us to the point where we can no longer help ourselves and must trust in God alone. Then God goes to work, and He is glorified in a way greater than ever before. We are called to choose faith over fear, and trust that in God's game plan, there are no permanent dead ends!
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
God's Waiting Room
From: Today God Is First - Os Hillman
Psalm 46:10 "Be still and know that I am God."
There is a time and place in our walk with God in which He sets us in a place of isolation and waiting. It is as if God has placed a wall around us. No new opportunities - simply inactivity.
During these times, God is calling us aside to fashion something new in us. It is designed to call us to deeper roots of prayer and faith. It is not a comfortable place. Our nature cries out, "You must do something" while God is saying, "Be still and know that I am God." You know the signs that you have been brought into this place when He has removed many things from your life and you can't seem to change anything. Perhaps you are unemployed. Perhaps you are laid up with an illness.
Many people live a very planned and orchestrated life where they know almost everything that will happen. But for people in whom God is performing a deeper work, He brings them into a time of quietness that seems almost eerie. They cannot see what God is doing. They just know that He is doing a work that cannot be explained to themselves or to others.
"Has God brought you to a place of nothingness? Be still and know that He really is God. When this happens, your nothingness will be turned into something you will value for the rest of your life." - Mother Teresa
Psalm 46:10 "Be still and know that I am God."
There is a time and place in our walk with God in which He sets us in a place of isolation and waiting. It is as if God has placed a wall around us. No new opportunities - simply inactivity.
During these times, God is calling us aside to fashion something new in us. It is designed to call us to deeper roots of prayer and faith. It is not a comfortable place. Our nature cries out, "You must do something" while God is saying, "Be still and know that I am God." You know the signs that you have been brought into this place when He has removed many things from your life and you can't seem to change anything. Perhaps you are unemployed. Perhaps you are laid up with an illness.
Many people live a very planned and orchestrated life where they know almost everything that will happen. But for people in whom God is performing a deeper work, He brings them into a time of quietness that seems almost eerie. They cannot see what God is doing. They just know that He is doing a work that cannot be explained to themselves or to others.
"Has God brought you to a place of nothingness? Be still and know that He really is God. When this happens, your nothingness will be turned into something you will value for the rest of your life." - Mother Teresa
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
The Rock
From: Ambassadors For Christ International - John North
Matthew 7:24-25 "Therefore everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them, may be compared to a wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and slammed against that house; and yet it did not fall, for it had been founded on the rock."
A violent storm shakes and pulls apart whatever it finds. But a great rock in the earth is unmoved by whatever storm rages above it. God’s word is the rock in your life. It is the only foundation you can build your life on that is always sure.
God’s word never changes because God never changes. At some point in your life, the storm will hit. God wants you to know that if you build your life on God’s word, trusting Him, following His principles, obeying His leading, then you’ll be ready; if you ignore Him, the storm will destroy your inner life.
Stand on His word; it’s a rock you can trust. The life that is lived with God’s word at its center can withstand any storm!
Matthew 7:24-25 "Therefore everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them, may be compared to a wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and slammed against that house; and yet it did not fall, for it had been founded on the rock."
A violent storm shakes and pulls apart whatever it finds. But a great rock in the earth is unmoved by whatever storm rages above it. God’s word is the rock in your life. It is the only foundation you can build your life on that is always sure.
God’s word never changes because God never changes. At some point in your life, the storm will hit. God wants you to know that if you build your life on God’s word, trusting Him, following His principles, obeying His leading, then you’ll be ready; if you ignore Him, the storm will destroy your inner life.
Stand on His word; it’s a rock you can trust. The life that is lived with God’s word at its center can withstand any storm!
Monday, May 23, 2011
God's Word - Living And Active
From: Joel Osteen Ministries
Romans 10:17 "Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God."
Scripture tells us that every person has been given a measure of faith. That faith can grow and increase; or it can be diminished. Notice today’s scripture doesn’t say, "Faith comes by having heard the Word of God one time." It’s by hearing — present tense.
Sure, God’s Word can transform us in an instant, but most of the time, we need to hear God’s truth over and over again in order for it to become active in our lives. The more we hear the Word, the more His truth chisels away at the doubt and unbelief that’s been built up over the years. His truth sets us free and causes our faith to grow!
Just as a seed needs water daily to grow, our spirit needs the Word of God daily. Our faith needs to be watered by His Word. It can be as simple as selecting a few scriptures to meditate on daily. Write them down and carry them in your purse or wallet. Read them out loud over and over. Let His truth sink down into your heart and move you forward into the freedom and peace He desires for you!
Romans 10:17 "Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God."
Scripture tells us that every person has been given a measure of faith. That faith can grow and increase; or it can be diminished. Notice today’s scripture doesn’t say, "Faith comes by having heard the Word of God one time." It’s by hearing — present tense.
Sure, God’s Word can transform us in an instant, but most of the time, we need to hear God’s truth over and over again in order for it to become active in our lives. The more we hear the Word, the more His truth chisels away at the doubt and unbelief that’s been built up over the years. His truth sets us free and causes our faith to grow!
Just as a seed needs water daily to grow, our spirit needs the Word of God daily. Our faith needs to be watered by His Word. It can be as simple as selecting a few scriptures to meditate on daily. Write them down and carry them in your purse or wallet. Read them out loud over and over. Let His truth sink down into your heart and move you forward into the freedom and peace He desires for you!
Sunday, May 22, 2011
The One Thing
From: Boyd Bailey Ministries
Matthew 25:23 "Well done good and faithful servant. Since you were faithful in small matters, I will give you great responsibilities. Come, share your master's joy."
Our ability to work comes from God. Our ability to earn a degree and make money comes from God. Our ability to paint, sing, play a musical instrument and execute a deal, they all come from God. He calls us and He equips us to carry out His will for our lives. Where He calls; He equips. And yes, if you do not use the God-given abilities you have, you could lose them.
Just as muscle shrinks and becomes useless without use; so do the skills, abilities, gifts and knowledge given to us by God. His expectations are for you to continue to grow and improve. He wants you to focus on the things you do the very best.
Position your life to do the one thing that you have become a genius at doing by God’s grace. It may be teaching; then focus on teaching. It may be leading; then focus on leading. It may be coaching; then focus on coaching. It may be singing; then focus on singing. It may be parenting; then focus on parenting. It may be writing; then focus on writing.
This requires discipline and in some cases sacrifice, but trust God with who you are. Yes, there are economic considerations, but each stage of life has its own opportunities. Stay nimble and seize each opportunity in the context of what you do best, and never forget to give God the credit for your abilities.
Matthew 25:23 "Well done good and faithful servant. Since you were faithful in small matters, I will give you great responsibilities. Come, share your master's joy."
Our ability to work comes from God. Our ability to earn a degree and make money comes from God. Our ability to paint, sing, play a musical instrument and execute a deal, they all come from God. He calls us and He equips us to carry out His will for our lives. Where He calls; He equips. And yes, if you do not use the God-given abilities you have, you could lose them.
Just as muscle shrinks and becomes useless without use; so do the skills, abilities, gifts and knowledge given to us by God. His expectations are for you to continue to grow and improve. He wants you to focus on the things you do the very best.
Position your life to do the one thing that you have become a genius at doing by God’s grace. It may be teaching; then focus on teaching. It may be leading; then focus on leading. It may be coaching; then focus on coaching. It may be singing; then focus on singing. It may be parenting; then focus on parenting. It may be writing; then focus on writing.
This requires discipline and in some cases sacrifice, but trust God with who you are. Yes, there are economic considerations, but each stage of life has its own opportunities. Stay nimble and seize each opportunity in the context of what you do best, and never forget to give God the credit for your abilities.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Dining With Royalty
From: Bryant Wright Ministries
Revelation 3:20 "Here I stand knocking at the door. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in and dine with them and they with Me."
I don't know whether you've ever been invited to make an appearance at Buckingham Palace, but wouldn't it be amazing to have the Queen of England desire to visit your home? Even more amazing, there is a King who represents royalty and power, greater than anyone, who desires to do just that.
The Bible tells us that King is Jesus Christ, the King of kings. Jesus talks about our life like it's a home. He says He is standing outside the door of our lives. He's knocking and hoping we'll invite Him in. If you do open the door and invite Him in, He promises to enter. When He comes into your life, He brings meaning, companionship, strength and love to face the demands of life. He brings everything you need to live a complete and purposeful life.
How about it? Why not open the door today and you can have dinner with the King of kings...forever and ever.
Revelation 3:20 "Here I stand knocking at the door. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in and dine with them and they with Me."
I don't know whether you've ever been invited to make an appearance at Buckingham Palace, but wouldn't it be amazing to have the Queen of England desire to visit your home? Even more amazing, there is a King who represents royalty and power, greater than anyone, who desires to do just that.
The Bible tells us that King is Jesus Christ, the King of kings. Jesus talks about our life like it's a home. He says He is standing outside the door of our lives. He's knocking and hoping we'll invite Him in. If you do open the door and invite Him in, He promises to enter. When He comes into your life, He brings meaning, companionship, strength and love to face the demands of life. He brings everything you need to live a complete and purposeful life.
How about it? Why not open the door today and you can have dinner with the King of kings...forever and ever.
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Much Fruit
From: Joel Osteen Ministries
John 15:5 "I am the vine, you are the branches. Whoever remains in Me and I in him will bear much fruit; without Me you can do nothing."
Have you ever really thought about the relationship between a branch and the vine? We don’t use these kinds of word pictures very much anymore, but think about it — if the branch is not attached to the vine, it withers and dies. The very life of the branch depends on being attached to the vine.
The same thing happens if we try to operate in this life without Jesus. Without Him, we can do nothing. We are cut from our life source. But when you remain in Him by daily connecting with Him through prayer, worship and study of the Word, then your life will be fruitful. You’ll walk in joy and blessing as Christ's ambassador.
Notice that this verse says "much fruit." Choose to remain in Him today; choose to make Him your top priority, and you’ll clearly see His hand guiding you in every area of your life!
John 15:5 "I am the vine, you are the branches. Whoever remains in Me and I in him will bear much fruit; without Me you can do nothing."
Have you ever really thought about the relationship between a branch and the vine? We don’t use these kinds of word pictures very much anymore, but think about it — if the branch is not attached to the vine, it withers and dies. The very life of the branch depends on being attached to the vine.
The same thing happens if we try to operate in this life without Jesus. Without Him, we can do nothing. We are cut from our life source. But when you remain in Him by daily connecting with Him through prayer, worship and study of the Word, then your life will be fruitful. You’ll walk in joy and blessing as Christ's ambassador.
Notice that this verse says "much fruit." Choose to remain in Him today; choose to make Him your top priority, and you’ll clearly see His hand guiding you in every area of your life!
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Perfect Timing
From: Powerpoint Daily Devotionals - Jack Graham
Psalm 40:2 "I waited, waited for the Lord; Who bent down and heard my cry."
Do you know what one of the toughest aspects of the Christian life is? Waiting for God. If you and I are honest with ourselves, it’s not always easy to have the patience and trust to wait for God’s perfect timing. Yet, one of the highest callings of the Scriptures is often to wait on God.
God’s grace is often best experienced when you have to wait on Him. And that’s because when you wait on Him, you have nothing but Him in which to hope. It’s when you think you have your life all together and you don’t feel you need God that things begin to really fall apart because He is the only foundation that will never crumble.
So when a situation comes where you have to wait—whether it’s sickness, sorrow, financial problems, a broken home, or a broken marriage—remain faithful and wait patiently on God to work and you’ll be able to fully experience his abundant grace.
Psalm 40:2 "I waited, waited for the Lord; Who bent down and heard my cry."
Do you know what one of the toughest aspects of the Christian life is? Waiting for God. If you and I are honest with ourselves, it’s not always easy to have the patience and trust to wait for God’s perfect timing. Yet, one of the highest callings of the Scriptures is often to wait on God.
God’s grace is often best experienced when you have to wait on Him. And that’s because when you wait on Him, you have nothing but Him in which to hope. It’s when you think you have your life all together and you don’t feel you need God that things begin to really fall apart because He is the only foundation that will never crumble.
So when a situation comes where you have to wait—whether it’s sickness, sorrow, financial problems, a broken home, or a broken marriage—remain faithful and wait patiently on God to work and you’ll be able to fully experience his abundant grace.
Monday, May 16, 2011
Giant Opportunities
From: Boyd Bailey Ministries
Numbers 13:1a, 30-31 "The Lord said to Moses, 'Send some men to explore the land of Canaan, which I am giving to the Israelites.…' Then Caleb silenced the people before Moses and said, 'We should go up and take possession of the land, for we can certainly do it.' But the men who had gone up with him said, 'We can't attack those people; they are stronger than we are.'"
As we face life, we can be overwhelmed by its giant obstacles, or be inspired by its giant opportunities. Challenges and uncertainty tend to corrode our confidence. It is in the face of the unknown that we can move forward by faith, or backward in disbelief. How can your obstacles be converted into opportunities? Obstacles are stepping stones for obedient feet to follow.
Therefore, with aggressive patience, stay focused and you will eventually see some obstacles dissolve, and others transformed into treasures. Maybe a financial giant is looming large as an intimidating obstacle? If so, stay true to your integrity by not selectively suspending your core values for needed results. Instead, remain faithful to wise stewardship and honesty, and the right results will follow at the right time. Trust God to use scary giants for His glory.
God orchestrates giant opportunities for His greater good. He told Moses that He was giving His children the promise land; all they had to do was show up and receive His gift. Giant opportunities do require faith, planning, perseverance and hard work, as the reward of obedience and trust in the Lord is enough. Difficult days and economic challenges are greater opportunities for God to get the glory.
Numbers 13:1a, 30-31 "The Lord said to Moses, 'Send some men to explore the land of Canaan, which I am giving to the Israelites.…' Then Caleb silenced the people before Moses and said, 'We should go up and take possession of the land, for we can certainly do it.' But the men who had gone up with him said, 'We can't attack those people; they are stronger than we are.'"
As we face life, we can be overwhelmed by its giant obstacles, or be inspired by its giant opportunities. Challenges and uncertainty tend to corrode our confidence. It is in the face of the unknown that we can move forward by faith, or backward in disbelief. How can your obstacles be converted into opportunities? Obstacles are stepping stones for obedient feet to follow.
Therefore, with aggressive patience, stay focused and you will eventually see some obstacles dissolve, and others transformed into treasures. Maybe a financial giant is looming large as an intimidating obstacle? If so, stay true to your integrity by not selectively suspending your core values for needed results. Instead, remain faithful to wise stewardship and honesty, and the right results will follow at the right time. Trust God to use scary giants for His glory.
God orchestrates giant opportunities for His greater good. He told Moses that He was giving His children the promise land; all they had to do was show up and receive His gift. Giant opportunities do require faith, planning, perseverance and hard work, as the reward of obedience and trust in the Lord is enough. Difficult days and economic challenges are greater opportunities for God to get the glory.
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Spiritual Vitality
From: Oswald Chambers Devotionals
Ephesians 1:18 "May He enlighten your innermost vision that you may know the great hope to which He has called you..."
God is the Master Designer, and He allows adversities into your life to see if you can jump over them properly— "By my God I can leap over a wall" (Psalm 18:29). God will never shield you from the requirements of being His son or daughter.
First Peter 4:12 says, "Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you . . . ." Rise to the occasion—do what the trial demands of you.
May God not find complaints in us anymore, but spiritual vitality—a readiness to face anything He brings our way. The only proper goal of life is that we manifest the Son of God; and when this occurs, all of our dictating of our demands to God disappears. We are here to submit to His will so that He may work through us what He wants. Once we realize this, He will make us broken bread and poured-out wine with which to feed and nourish others.
Ephesians 1:18 "May He enlighten your innermost vision that you may know the great hope to which He has called you..."
God is the Master Designer, and He allows adversities into your life to see if you can jump over them properly— "By my God I can leap over a wall" (Psalm 18:29). God will never shield you from the requirements of being His son or daughter.
First Peter 4:12 says, "Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you . . . ." Rise to the occasion—do what the trial demands of you.
May God not find complaints in us anymore, but spiritual vitality—a readiness to face anything He brings our way. The only proper goal of life is that we manifest the Son of God; and when this occurs, all of our dictating of our demands to God disappears. We are here to submit to His will so that He may work through us what He wants. Once we realize this, He will make us broken bread and poured-out wine with which to feed and nourish others.
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Real Happiness
From: Powerpoint Daily Devotionals
Psalm 112:1 "Happy the man who honors the Lord, who greatly delights in His commands."
Happiness should never be the major goal of your life because real happiness can only be a byproduct of your real purpose, which must be something greater than yourself. Whatever it is that motivates your life must be something big enough to make living worthwhile.
So what is the prime purpose for which God made you? Your purpose is to bring glory to God. God has a plan for everything that happens to you. And that plan is for you to be used as an instrument of his glory.
Are you willing to let God be God even when you don’t understand what’s going on? Are you willing to trust God that He knows what He’s doing when the hard times of life hit? It’s in your dependence upon Him that He is most glorified in your life. So in the good times and the bad, trust fully that He’s doing something great with you and then you’ll experience real happiness.
Psalm 112:1 "Happy the man who honors the Lord, who greatly delights in His commands."
Happiness should never be the major goal of your life because real happiness can only be a byproduct of your real purpose, which must be something greater than yourself. Whatever it is that motivates your life must be something big enough to make living worthwhile.
So what is the prime purpose for which God made you? Your purpose is to bring glory to God. God has a plan for everything that happens to you. And that plan is for you to be used as an instrument of his glory.
Are you willing to let God be God even when you don’t understand what’s going on? Are you willing to trust God that He knows what He’s doing when the hard times of life hit? It’s in your dependence upon Him that He is most glorified in your life. So in the good times and the bad, trust fully that He’s doing something great with you and then you’ll experience real happiness.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Know Your Armor
From: Today God Is First - Os Hillman
1 Samuel 17:39 "David fastened on his sword over the tunic and tried walking around, because he was not used to them. 'I cannot go in these,' he said to Saul, 'because I am not used to them.' So he took them off."
God equips each of us in such a way that is unique to our strengths and abilities. David knew who he was and who he wasn't. David was trained as a shepherd to use another weapon. For David, it was a slingshot. David showed great maturity in realizing he could not be effective with Saul's armor.
What are the gifts and talents God has given to you? Have you ever tried to accomplish a task with tools you were not trained to use? God allows each of us to develop skills that are unique to our life. He will not call you to use someone else's tools.
Sometimes we admire the talents of others and seek to emulate them. The temptation arises to be someone we are not. This is a mistake. Let God live His life through the unique you. Then, mix your unique gifts with faith today; you will be surprised at the power of God that will be manifested.
1 Samuel 17:39 "David fastened on his sword over the tunic and tried walking around, because he was not used to them. 'I cannot go in these,' he said to Saul, 'because I am not used to them.' So he took them off."
God equips each of us in such a way that is unique to our strengths and abilities. David knew who he was and who he wasn't. David was trained as a shepherd to use another weapon. For David, it was a slingshot. David showed great maturity in realizing he could not be effective with Saul's armor.
What are the gifts and talents God has given to you? Have you ever tried to accomplish a task with tools you were not trained to use? God allows each of us to develop skills that are unique to our life. He will not call you to use someone else's tools.
Sometimes we admire the talents of others and seek to emulate them. The temptation arises to be someone we are not. This is a mistake. Let God live His life through the unique you. Then, mix your unique gifts with faith today; you will be surprised at the power of God that will be manifested.
Monday, May 9, 2011
The Bigger Picture
From: Today God Is First - Os Hillman
James 1:2-5 "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."
You can make the perfect golf swing and end up in a divot or sand bunker, or make a great baseball pitch and the batter will hit a homerun. The analogies are limitless.
So what do we do when the outcome is bad? We must accept that in sports, as in life, outcomes don't end the way we always hope.
Jesus came to be Savior of the world. He was a perfect human being without sin. He did all the right things. The result was death on the cross because a short term positive outcome was not God's plan for the situation. He had a bigger picture in mind.
You and I need to keep the big picture in mind when short term outcomes don't turn out well. The Bible calls this perseverance. "Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him."
Ask God for the grace to accept bad outcomes even when you have done all the right things.
James 1:2-5 "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."
You can make the perfect golf swing and end up in a divot or sand bunker, or make a great baseball pitch and the batter will hit a homerun. The analogies are limitless.
So what do we do when the outcome is bad? We must accept that in sports, as in life, outcomes don't end the way we always hope.
Jesus came to be Savior of the world. He was a perfect human being without sin. He did all the right things. The result was death on the cross because a short term positive outcome was not God's plan for the situation. He had a bigger picture in mind.
You and I need to keep the big picture in mind when short term outcomes don't turn out well. The Bible calls this perseverance. "Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him."
Ask God for the grace to accept bad outcomes even when you have done all the right things.
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Be An Encourager
From: The Word For Today - Bob Gass
Proverbs 16:24 "Pleasant words are...healing..."
Al had a hard time in school. He never seemed to be able to keep up. When his teacher called him 'Addled', his mother immediately withdrew him from school to teach him at home. The teacher thought he couldn't learn, but Al's mother had a different opinion- she was a nurturer; she believed in him. She schooled him at home, and each time he failed she gave him hope and encouraged him to keep trying.
Whatever happened to Al? Well, eventually he grew up and became an inventor holding more than 1000 patents, including the phonograph and the first electric light bulb. You guessed it-his name was Thomas Alva Edison. Wow! When people have love and hope, there's no telling how far they can go! Solomon writes: 'Pleasant words are...healing.'
With God every weed is a potential rose. His book, the Bible, is the ultimate book of hope. It tells us that Jonah got a second chance to go back to Nineveh and the whole city turned to God (Jonah 3:1-10); that the Prodigal Son came back from a wasted life and was restored to his family (Luke 15:11-24); and that Peter, the man who denied the Lord, became a leader in the New Testament church and died as a martyr for the cause of Christ. Do you want to become great in God's Kingdom? Become an encourager, a nurturer, and a restorer!
Proverbs 16:24 "Pleasant words are...healing..."
Al had a hard time in school. He never seemed to be able to keep up. When his teacher called him 'Addled', his mother immediately withdrew him from school to teach him at home. The teacher thought he couldn't learn, but Al's mother had a different opinion- she was a nurturer; she believed in him. She schooled him at home, and each time he failed she gave him hope and encouraged him to keep trying.
Whatever happened to Al? Well, eventually he grew up and became an inventor holding more than 1000 patents, including the phonograph and the first electric light bulb. You guessed it-his name was Thomas Alva Edison. Wow! When people have love and hope, there's no telling how far they can go! Solomon writes: 'Pleasant words are...healing.'
With God every weed is a potential rose. His book, the Bible, is the ultimate book of hope. It tells us that Jonah got a second chance to go back to Nineveh and the whole city turned to God (Jonah 3:1-10); that the Prodigal Son came back from a wasted life and was restored to his family (Luke 15:11-24); and that Peter, the man who denied the Lord, became a leader in the New Testament church and died as a martyr for the cause of Christ. Do you want to become great in God's Kingdom? Become an encourager, a nurturer, and a restorer!
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Perseverance
From: New Life Daily Devotionals
Romans 8:31 "What, then shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us?"
World War II ravaged through Europe for more than two years. The Axis forces looked invincible. England had suffered massive air raids by German forces in late 1940, and again in the spring of 1941.
On October 29, 1941, Great Britain’s Prime Minister, Winston Churchill, visited the Harrow School for boys—his alma mater—to speak to its students. What message did the times demand? What could Churchill say to these young men in the face of the Blitzkrieg that seized Europe, leveled London, and cast their lives and futures into a thick fog of uncertainty? His words were simple, moving, and unforgettable: "Never, ever, ever, ever, ever, ever, ever, give in. Never give in. Never give in. Never give in."
Perseverance. It’s born of faith. It’s nourished by hope. And it’s a sure sign of strength of character. What role does it play in your Christian life?
Romans 8:31 "What, then shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us?"
World War II ravaged through Europe for more than two years. The Axis forces looked invincible. England had suffered massive air raids by German forces in late 1940, and again in the spring of 1941.
On October 29, 1941, Great Britain’s Prime Minister, Winston Churchill, visited the Harrow School for boys—his alma mater—to speak to its students. What message did the times demand? What could Churchill say to these young men in the face of the Blitzkrieg that seized Europe, leveled London, and cast their lives and futures into a thick fog of uncertainty? His words were simple, moving, and unforgettable: "Never, ever, ever, ever, ever, ever, ever, give in. Never give in. Never give in. Never give in."
Perseverance. It’s born of faith. It’s nourished by hope. And it’s a sure sign of strength of character. What role does it play in your Christian life?
Sunday, May 1, 2011
For Your Sake
From: Neil Anderson Ministries
Ephesians 4:32 "Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ has also forgiven you."
Forgiveness is not forgetting. People who try to forget find that they cannot. God says He will "remember no more" our sins (Hebrews 10:17), but God, being omniscient, cannot forget. "Remember no more" means that God will never use the past against us (Psalm 103:12). Forgetting may be a result of forgiveness, but it is never the means of forgiveness. When we bring up the past and use it against others, we haven't forgiven them.
Forgiveness is a choice. We choose to face and acknowledge the hurt and the hate in order to forgive from the heart. Since God requires us to forgive, it is something we can do. (He would never require us to do something we cannot do.) "Why should I let them off the hook?" we protest. You let them off your hook, but they are never off God's hook. He will deal with them fairly--something we cannot do.
If you don't let offenders off your hook, you are hooked to them and the past, and that just means continued pain for you. Stop the pain; let it go. You don't forgive someone merely for their sake; you do it for your sake so you can be free. Your need to forgive isn't an issue between you and the offender; it's between you and God.
Ephesians 4:32 "Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ has also forgiven you."
Forgiveness is not forgetting. People who try to forget find that they cannot. God says He will "remember no more" our sins (Hebrews 10:17), but God, being omniscient, cannot forget. "Remember no more" means that God will never use the past against us (Psalm 103:12). Forgetting may be a result of forgiveness, but it is never the means of forgiveness. When we bring up the past and use it against others, we haven't forgiven them.
Forgiveness is a choice. We choose to face and acknowledge the hurt and the hate in order to forgive from the heart. Since God requires us to forgive, it is something we can do. (He would never require us to do something we cannot do.) "Why should I let them off the hook?" we protest. You let them off your hook, but they are never off God's hook. He will deal with them fairly--something we cannot do.
If you don't let offenders off your hook, you are hooked to them and the past, and that just means continued pain for you. Stop the pain; let it go. You don't forgive someone merely for their sake; you do it for your sake so you can be free. Your need to forgive isn't an issue between you and the offender; it's between you and God.
Salt And Light
From: Ambassadors For Christ International - John North
Matthew 5:13,14,16 "You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt has become tasteless, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled under foot by men. You are the light of the world. Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven."
Jesus says that the purpose of salt is to make things tastier. If we’re the salt of the earth, we should be making life on this earth taste better for the people around us.
A lamp gives light to everyone around it and lets them see things they couldn’t otherwise see. If we’re the light of the world, our lives should let people see the reality of God that they don’t see in their own lives and make them long to know Him.
Go into today with a ministry mindset that looks for ways to make life more flavorful for those around you, pointing to God as the difference-maker in your life. Our lives should reveal the beauty of life lived with God at the center of it!
Matthew 5:13,14,16 "You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt has become tasteless, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled under foot by men. You are the light of the world. Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven."
Jesus says that the purpose of salt is to make things tastier. If we’re the salt of the earth, we should be making life on this earth taste better for the people around us.
A lamp gives light to everyone around it and lets them see things they couldn’t otherwise see. If we’re the light of the world, our lives should let people see the reality of God that they don’t see in their own lives and make them long to know Him.
Go into today with a ministry mindset that looks for ways to make life more flavorful for those around you, pointing to God as the difference-maker in your life. Our lives should reveal the beauty of life lived with God at the center of it!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
