From: Ambassadors For Christ International - John North
Proverbs 17:3 "The refining pot is for silver and the furnace for gold, but the Lord tests hearts."
The Lord tests your heart to show how strong your relationship with Him is! But God already knows the state of your heart, so why does He test it? He already knows the measure of your faith, so why test it?
God tests your relationship with Him because He wants YOU to know how strong it is, and because He wants others to know how much you trust and love Him. Nobody likes to go through these tests, but notice the result if you stay close to Him through the test—praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.
If you are going through some struggles and some times of testing this week, God wants you to remember that it is not just your endurance that is being tested, it is your relationship with Him. Trust and love Him even when life is not easy?
Wednesday, April 24, 2013
Sunday, April 21, 2013
Be Ready
From: Oswald Chambers Ministries
Exodus 3:4 "God called to him . . . . And he said, 'Here I am.'"
When God speaks, many of us are like people in a fog, and we give no answer. Moses’ reply to God revealed that he knew where he was and that he was ready. Readiness means having a right relationship to God and having the knowledge of where we are. We are so busy telling God where we would like to go. Yet the man or woman who is ready for God and His work is the one who receives the prize when the summons comes.
Be ready for the sudden surprise visits of God. A ready person never needs to get ready— he is ready.
Exodus 3:4 "God called to him . . . . And he said, 'Here I am.'"
When God speaks, many of us are like people in a fog, and we give no answer. Moses’ reply to God revealed that he knew where he was and that he was ready. Readiness means having a right relationship to God and having the knowledge of where we are. We are so busy telling God where we would like to go. Yet the man or woman who is ready for God and His work is the one who receives the prize when the summons comes.
Readiness for God means that we are prepared to do the smallest thing or the largest thing— it makes no difference. It means we have no choice in what we want to do, but that whatever God’s plans may be, we are there and ready.
Be ready for the sudden surprise visits of God. A ready person never needs to get ready— he is ready.
The Holy Spirit
From: Billy Graham Ministries
John 16:13 "When he comes, however, being the Spirit of truth, He will guide you to all truth..."
The moment you are born again, He takes up residence in your heart. You may not emotionally feel Him there, but you must exercise faith. Believe it! Accept it as a fact of faith! He is in your heart to help you.
We are told that He sheds the love of God abroad in our hearts. He produces the fruit of the Spirit: "love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faith, humility, self-control.” We cannot possibly manufacture this fruit in our own strength. It is supernaturally manufactured by the Holy Spirit who lives in our hearts!
Thursday, April 18, 2013
Raising The Spiritual Bar
From: Today God Is First - Os Hillman
1 Corinthians 12:7-9 "Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. To one there is given through the Spirit the message of wisdom, to another the message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit."
Whenever something unusual happens in daily life, these are often signs that God is up to something. Jesus often spoke supernaturally into the lives of others based on the circumstance of the moment. We must have a heightened sense of awareness of what God may want to do in these situations.
God is raising the spiritual bar for Christians who want to impact the world for Christ today. He wants to break through into people's lives supernaturally by giving them insights into the needs of people in order to bring them to Christ.
As you go about your day, there are situations that we can find ourselves in that are open doors for bringing Christ into the circumstance. In fact, He is the One orchestrating the circumstance! Next time an unusual situation develops, be aware that God may be creating such a circumstance to bring His glory into the situation.
1 Corinthians 12:7-9 "Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. To one there is given through the Spirit the message of wisdom, to another the message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit."
Whenever something unusual happens in daily life, these are often signs that God is up to something. Jesus often spoke supernaturally into the lives of others based on the circumstance of the moment. We must have a heightened sense of awareness of what God may want to do in these situations.
God is raising the spiritual bar for Christians who want to impact the world for Christ today. He wants to break through into people's lives supernaturally by giving them insights into the needs of people in order to bring them to Christ.
As you go about your day, there are situations that we can find ourselves in that are open doors for bringing Christ into the circumstance. In fact, He is the One orchestrating the circumstance! Next time an unusual situation develops, be aware that God may be creating such a circumstance to bring His glory into the situation.
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
The Landscape Of Life
From: Our Daily Bread Ministries
Job 42:2 "I know that You can do all things, and that no purpose of Yours can be hindered."
In Scripture, we read about some apparently hopeless situations. One example is that of a wealthy man named Job whom God described as having integrity (Job 2:3). Disaster struck and Job lost everything important to him. In misery, he said, "My days are . . . spent without hope" (Job 7:6). What appeared to Job and his friends as evidence that God had turned against him was just the opposite. God was so confident of Job’s integrity that He trusted him in this battle with Satan. Later, Job’s hope and life were renewed.
The faithful arrival of spring every year comforts me when I’m in a situation that seems hopeless. With God, there is no such thing. No matter how bleak the landscape of life may look, God can transform it into a glorious garden of color and fragrance.
Tuesday, April 16, 2013
Seeking The Lord
From: In Touch Ministries
Deuteronomy 4:29 "Yet there too you shall seek the Lord, your God; and you shall indeed find Him when you search after Him with your whole heart and your whole soul."
We all have ambitions and desires. And while these are not necessarily wrong, we should analyze our priorities: Where do I invest my time and energy? What or who occupies my thoughts? As important as our earthly pursuits, responsibilities, and relationships may be, they cannot compare to the value of a life spent seeking the Lord.
Seeking the Lord is not a quick and occasional encounter, but a wholehearted effort to know Him more intimately and follow Him more closely. Those who unreservedly pursue this kind of fellowship with God are determined to spend time with Him; they also want to forsake anything that could hinder growth in their relationship with the Lord.
The Christian life is meant to be a pursuit of God. Those who seek Him soon discover that knowing Him intimately is the greatest reward of all.
We all have ambitions and desires. And while these are not necessarily wrong, we should analyze our priorities: Where do I invest my time and energy? What or who occupies my thoughts? As important as our earthly pursuits, responsibilities, and relationships may be, they cannot compare to the value of a life spent seeking the Lord.
Seeking the Lord is not a quick and occasional encounter, but a wholehearted effort to know Him more intimately and follow Him more closely. Those who unreservedly pursue this kind of fellowship with God are determined to spend time with Him; they also want to forsake anything that could hinder growth in their relationship with the Lord.
The Christian life is meant to be a pursuit of God. Those who seek Him soon discover that knowing Him intimately is the greatest reward of all.
Sunday, April 14, 2013
Every Day Is A Gift
From: New Life Daily Devotionals - Steve Arterburn
Ephesians 5:20 "Give thanks to God always and for everything."
On March 9, 1996 comedian and actor George Burns passed away at the age of 100. He was still performing live comedy, until just a few years before his death. At his 98th birthday celebration, he addressed his guest in true "George Burns style", saying "It’s nice to be here... at 98, it’s nice to be anywhere."
At 98 years-old, George Burns considered every day a gift and he was right! Whether you’re twenty-two years old or ninety-two, life is precious and should never be taken for granted. None of us are born with a guaranteed number of days on this earth. We have no promise that we will be here tomorrow and should realize that each moment is priceless. In acknowledging each day as an irreplaceable gift, we will be more likely to make the most of the time that we are given.
Start each morning by thanking the Lord for the day He has given you. Then spend that day, as if you meant what you said.
Ephesians 5:20 "Give thanks to God always and for everything."
On March 9, 1996 comedian and actor George Burns passed away at the age of 100. He was still performing live comedy, until just a few years before his death. At his 98th birthday celebration, he addressed his guest in true "George Burns style", saying "It’s nice to be here... at 98, it’s nice to be anywhere."
At 98 years-old, George Burns considered every day a gift and he was right! Whether you’re twenty-two years old or ninety-two, life is precious and should never be taken for granted. None of us are born with a guaranteed number of days on this earth. We have no promise that we will be here tomorrow and should realize that each moment is priceless. In acknowledging each day as an irreplaceable gift, we will be more likely to make the most of the time that we are given.
Start each morning by thanking the Lord for the day He has given you. Then spend that day, as if you meant what you said.
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
Give Him Your Heart
From: Daily Disciples Devotionals
1 Samuel 16:7 "But the Lord said to Samuel, 'Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at things as man does. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.'"
Now Samuel was to anoint someone after God’s own heart, unlike Saul whom God, "regretted having made him king." It would be natural to think that the outward appearance mattered because of Saul’s appearance. However, God exhorts Samuel to not judge by appearances.
As we know, David was anointed that day. He was the youngest son, out tending the sheep. He was described as “ruddy with beautiful eyes and a handsome appearance,” but God was choosing David for his heart.
To do God’s work, we have to be sensitive to His leading. We can’t read or judge someone’s heart. But if God has our heart, we can discern His ways. Pray before you make any decisions. He will make known His will if you are willing to give him your heart.
1 Samuel 16:7 "But the Lord said to Samuel, 'Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at things as man does. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.'"
Now Samuel was to anoint someone after God’s own heart, unlike Saul whom God, "regretted having made him king." It would be natural to think that the outward appearance mattered because of Saul’s appearance. However, God exhorts Samuel to not judge by appearances.
As we know, David was anointed that day. He was the youngest son, out tending the sheep. He was described as “ruddy with beautiful eyes and a handsome appearance,” but God was choosing David for his heart.
To do God’s work, we have to be sensitive to His leading. We can’t read or judge someone’s heart. But if God has our heart, we can discern His ways. Pray before you make any decisions. He will make known His will if you are willing to give him your heart.
Tuesday, April 9, 2013
Heavenly Investment
From: Joe Gibbs Ministries
Matthew 6:20 "But store up for yourselves treasures in Heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal."
"Treasures in Heaven." What are those? And how do they become part of our life's purpose?
Every person you know or meet is an eternal being. Each of us has an eternal soul and one way to store up "treasures in Heaven" is by investing your life in other people—in your wife, your children, your work associates and employees, your neighbors, your friends, even people who cross your path in seemingly random fashion. We're to see them as a teller window for depositing our time, our attention, our concern, even just a kind "hello" made with deliberate eye contact.
Not every heavenly investment is transacted at church or in some other so-called spiritual setting. Just about anywhere you go, there's a branch near you.
Matthew 6:20 "But store up for yourselves treasures in Heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal."
"Treasures in Heaven." What are those? And how do they become part of our life's purpose?
Every person you know or meet is an eternal being. Each of us has an eternal soul and one way to store up "treasures in Heaven" is by investing your life in other people—in your wife, your children, your work associates and employees, your neighbors, your friends, even people who cross your path in seemingly random fashion. We're to see them as a teller window for depositing our time, our attention, our concern, even just a kind "hello" made with deliberate eye contact.
Not every heavenly investment is transacted at church or in some other so-called spiritual setting. Just about anywhere you go, there's a branch near you.
Monday, April 8, 2013
The Bible
From: Billy Graham Ministries
2 Timothy 3:16 "All Scripture is inspired by God..."
A knowledge of the Bible is essential to a rich and meaningful life. For the words of this Book have a way of filling in the missing pieces, of bridging the gaps, of turning the tarnished colors of our life to jewel-like brilliance.
2 Timothy 3:16 "All Scripture is inspired by God..."
A knowledge of the Bible is essential to a rich and meaningful life. For the words of this Book have a way of filling in the missing pieces, of bridging the gaps, of turning the tarnished colors of our life to jewel-like brilliance.
Learn to take your every problem to the Bible. Within its pages you will find the correct answer. But most of all, the Bible is a revelation of the nature of God. The philosophers of the centuries have struggled with the problem of a Supreme Being. Who is He? What is He? Where is He? If there is such a Person, is He interested in me? If so, how can I know Him?
These and a thousand other questions about God are answered in this Holy Book we call the Bible. "Your Word is a lamp for my feet and a light for my path." (Psalm 119:105)
Sunday, April 7, 2013
Well Built Life
From: Boyd Bailey Ministries
Luke 6:47-48 "As for everyone who comes to Me and hears My words and puts them into practice, I will show you what they are like. They are like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When a flood came, the torrent struck that house but could not shake it, because it was well built."
The foundation of a well built life is the Lord Jesus Christ. All other starting points are only shifting sands of security, but Jesus is a secure rock of salvation. So, wise life builders begin with faith in Jesus, the son of God and their Savior. Once this foundation of faith is laid, then the structure of wisdom can be erected. Yes, Almighty God is the architect of a life submitted to Him. His design is elegant and eternal. What the Lord builds no one or nothing can shake!
Obedience to God is a lifetime process of growing in grace, humility and love. Tests of faith will come and go, but the loving care of Jesus stands with us in everything we experience, good or bad . He is dependable in keeping us from becoming desperate in economic downturns. In success our Spirit filled life gives Him the glory.
Keep Christ as your Master Building Contractor, with the construction materials provided by Him. Talk over with Him in prayer the very real punch list of your concerns. He will never disappoint you. Your life is beautiful with its floors of forgiveness, walls of gratitude, windows of love and roof of grace. Your well built life will withstand any shaky circumstances!
Luke 6:47-48 "As for everyone who comes to Me and hears My words and puts them into practice, I will show you what they are like. They are like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When a flood came, the torrent struck that house but could not shake it, because it was well built."
The foundation of a well built life is the Lord Jesus Christ. All other starting points are only shifting sands of security, but Jesus is a secure rock of salvation. So, wise life builders begin with faith in Jesus, the son of God and their Savior. Once this foundation of faith is laid, then the structure of wisdom can be erected. Yes, Almighty God is the architect of a life submitted to Him. His design is elegant and eternal. What the Lord builds no one or nothing can shake!
Obedience to God is a lifetime process of growing in grace, humility and love. Tests of faith will come and go, but the loving care of Jesus stands with us in everything we experience, good or bad . He is dependable in keeping us from becoming desperate in economic downturns. In success our Spirit filled life gives Him the glory.
Keep Christ as your Master Building Contractor, with the construction materials provided by Him. Talk over with Him in prayer the very real punch list of your concerns. He will never disappoint you. Your life is beautiful with its floors of forgiveness, walls of gratitude, windows of love and roof of grace. Your well built life will withstand any shaky circumstances!
Thursday, April 4, 2013
Take Heart!
From: Bryant Wright Ministries
All of us want things to go our way all the time, but we have to admit that life doesn't work like that. Hard times come. Relationships are damaged. Financial worries plague us. There are even times of war. Yes, the clouds and the storms really do come.
Jesus said, "In this world, you will have trouble." But the good news is, He didn't stop there. He also said, "Take heart! I have overcome the world." Yes, trouble is a fact of life. But Jesus has given us a means of finding victory - the real victory - even in hard times.
Won't you allow Him to provide all you need to face the good times and the bad? He's willing and able to provide triumph, even when things look the darkest. Put your trust in Jesus Christ and you'll find the ability, not only to endure your trials, but to be stronger because of them.
Tuesday, April 2, 2013
Friendship
From: Our Daily Bread Ministries
Proverbs 17:17 "A friend loves at all times..."
Friendship is one of life’s greatest gifts. True friends seek a special kind of good for their friends: the highest good, which is that they might know God and love Him with all of their heart, soul, mind and strength.
Proverbs 17:17 "A friend loves at all times..."
Friendship is one of life’s greatest gifts. True friends seek a special kind of good for their friends: the highest good, which is that they might know God and love Him with all of their heart, soul, mind and strength.
Christian friendship is beyond common interests, beyond affection, beyond wit and laughter. The ultimate aim is to sow in others the words of eternal life, refreshing their spirit with words of God's love.
German pastor and martyr Dietrich Bonhoeffer said, "The aim of friendship is exclusively determined by what God’s will is for the other person." Pray for your friends and ask God to guide you to be a Christian friend according to His will.
Monday, April 1, 2013
Wisdom
From: Joe Gibbs Ministries
Psalm 90:12 "Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom."
In Game Plan for Life, Os Guinness mentions this quote from a 90-year-old Winston Churchill: "Life has been a grand journey—well worth making once."
Once. That's all we get. No dry runs. No do-overs. This day you're living now is not a dress rehearsal or a practice lap. You're on the stage. You're in the game. Start playing.
What this kind of thinking does is rip the disguise off today, revealing it to be every bit as momentous as the first morning on a new job or the night before major surgery. There are things to be said. Today. There are people to take notice of. Today. There are ordinary decisions to take seriously. Today. As the Bible says, "Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom."
Psalm 90:12 "Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom."
In Game Plan for Life, Os Guinness mentions this quote from a 90-year-old Winston Churchill: "Life has been a grand journey—well worth making once."
Once. That's all we get. No dry runs. No do-overs. This day you're living now is not a dress rehearsal or a practice lap. You're on the stage. You're in the game. Start playing.
What this kind of thinking does is rip the disguise off today, revealing it to be every bit as momentous as the first morning on a new job or the night before major surgery. There are things to be said. Today. There are people to take notice of. Today. There are ordinary decisions to take seriously. Today. As the Bible says, "Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom."
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