The Right Foundation

From: Our Daily Bread Ministries

Matthew 7:24-25 "Therefore everyone who hears these words of Mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. 

“I’ve got bad news for you,” said the builder, who was renovating an old house I had inherited. “When we started to convert the back half of the garage for your office, we found that the walls had almost no foundation. We will have to demolish them, dig proper foundations, and start again.”

“Do you have to do that?” I pleaded, silently calculating the extra cost. “Can’t you just patch it up?” But the builder was adamant. “Unless we go down to the proper depth, the building inspector won’t approve it. The right foundation is vital.”

The right foundation makes the difference between something that lasts and something temporary. Other foundations may be quicker, easier and cheaper. Building our lives on the right foundation is hard work, but God’s truth is the only bedrock worth building on. When the storms of life hit, houses built on and held together by Him stand firm.

God's Gift Of Time

From: InTouch Ministries

James 4:14 "...You are a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes."

Our lives are governed by time. That's why we're surrounded by clocks and calendars that dictate our activities. As the minutes tick by, we wonder where the day went. When responsibilities and pressures mount, we complain, "I just don't have time to get it all done!" But the reality is that God has given us enough time to do exactly what He's planned for our lives. 

Perhaps the bigger issue is whether we are using our time to do our will or the Lord's. Each day is an opportunity to choose. Time is a gift from God, and He has allotted each of us a measure in which to live and accomplish His purposes. 

We have only two options—to spend it temporally on our own interests or invest it eternally. Since time can never be retrieved or reversed, it's critical that we make the most of every opportunity the Lord provides. Scripture compares earthly life to "a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes", but eternal life never ends. 

A Humble Heart

From: Boyd Bailey Ministries

Numbers 12:3 "Now Moses was a very humble man, more humble than anyone else on the face of the earth." 

Humility finds favor with God and man. Because of their trustworthy temperament, the spirit of the humble solicits trust and blessing. Like honey attracts a bee, so the Lord’s heart is drawn to the humble. 

Our humble hearts are the hinges that swing open the door of God’s grace. Greater grace requires greater humility—especially in face of unfair criticism. The Holy Spirit is our defense attorney retained on our behalf by our heavenly Father. He will bring to light the truth and discredit the dishonest. 

The Lord lays bare a person’s motives. Our humility is a prescription of choice to combat pride. It cleans our spiritual veins of vanity’s vestiges. So, never forget where He’s brought you from and where He wants to take you. Your humble heart prepares you for His blessings.

"Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it's thinking of yourself less." - C.S Lewis

Weekend Meditation

Matthew 6:10, 26:42 "...Your will be done!"

"Our Father" knows best! It's not complicated.

Spiritual Discipline

From: Ambassadors For Christ International - John North

Psalm 46:10 "Be still and know that I am God."

Give God some still time! If this is going to happen, you are going to have to allocate time for it. You will not naturally just find yourself giving time to meditation on the things of God. But once you begin, you will find it to be one of the most important activities in your life.

Most people in almost any sphere of activity take time out just for thinking deeply about their lives and work. The Lord is calling us to apply this same discipline to our spiritual lives. It is sometimes difficult to take time to simply be quiet with God and His word. Not necessarily praying so much as listening and thinking about God and what He is putting on our hearts and minds.

When you first try this discipline you might struggle a bit. But keep at it and remember what the Psalmist said, "Behind and before You encircle me and rest Your hand upon me." (Psalm 139:5)

Gratitude To Jesus

From: BBH Ministries

Colossians 3:17 "Whatever you do, whether in speech or in action, do it in the name of the Lord Jesus."

Jesus gave up the infinite wealth of heaven and became poor for us, so that we who are poor could find the infinite wealth of heaven. Nothing that He could then ask of us would be too much or too demanding. Whatever you say, whatever you do, Paul says, let it be under the authority—and for the glory—of Jesus Christ.

Let your life, let your words be your expression of gratitude to Jesus. Show the heart-deep appreciation and measureless love that you have for your Savior in the decisions you make, the topics you talk about, and the schedule you keep.

You show how much you really believe the gospel and truly trust in Christ’s sacrifice, Paul says, by the way you respond to Him in your daily life. What does your life say? 

Spiritual Pruning

From: Boyd Bailey Ministries

John 15:1-2  "I am the true vine, and My Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in Me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit He prunes so that it will be even more fruitful." 

Our heavenly Father is the gardener Who gives life by pruning a life. He sees the bigger picture, so His lofty goal is our oneness with His heart. In His loving, gentle and merciful manner He removes distractions so we can refocus on His faithfulness.

Are you in the middle of a painful pruning process? Trust Him to give you strength and perseverance to remain faithful during this purging process. Let the comfort of the Holy Spirit take you into the depths of God’s grace.

Most of all remain in vibrant connection with the true vine, Jesus. We allow Him to rejuvenate our faith by His life giving grace. The spiritual sustenance we need to sustain us comes only from Jesus. The more our self is pruned back, the more abundant our spiritual fruit will bloom...for God's glory.

God Looks At The Heart

From: InTouch Ministries

Romans 8:28 "All things work together for good, for those who love God and are called according to His purpose."

The Lord knows what we really desire - and more importantly, what we need, even when cloudy judgment leads us astray. And He understands honest mistakes. When a believer misinterprets the Spirit's guidance or receives bad advice from a friend, God looks at the heart.

He may allow the consequences of a poor choice to play out, but He won't shame His children for an honest mistake. He can turn a bad situation into something good.

God can save us from worldly desires, but we must be willing to commit ourselves to Him and trust that His response is the best thing for us. When we put our lives entirely in the Father's hands, we can claim the wonderful promises He has for us and then rest in His grace.

God's Peacekeeper

From: Boyd Bailey Ministries

Colossians 3:15 "Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful."

God’s peacekeeper is His son Jesus Christ. His gift is rest in His grace. Faith receives peace. Outward control offers a false sense of serenity, but only Jesus gives inner peace.

When we behold our Prince of Peace in uninterrupted worship, we receive His radical peace loving assurance. Our peacekeeper Jesus makes ourselves an ally. Our flesh mopes around afraid, but we have no need to fear, since Jesus is near. He is our peace!

Your love and respect toward others is a peace offering God uses to extend His grace. The calm Christ puts within you is a testimony for those in turmoil. Stay surrendered to your Savior and your peaceful presence will draw others to Jesus. Yes, let His peace guard your heart and mind.

Weekend Meditation

Romans 11:34-36 "Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How inscrutable are His judgments, how unsearchable His ways! 

'For who has known the mind of the Lord or who has been His counselor? Or who has given Him anything that He may be repaid?'

For from Him and through Him and for Him are all things. To Him be glory forever. Amen."

Great meditation passage for any circumstance. 

Christian Joy

From: Selwyn Hughes Ministries

Psalm 30:6 "... Weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning." 

The word "joy" (Greek: chara) is a strong and robust word. It is not resignation wearing a wan smile. It means a joy that is exuberant and overflowing. 

The New Testament is a book of joy. Dr. William Barclay says that joy is the distinguishing atmosphere of the Christian life. He wrote: "We may put it this way -- whatever the ingredients of Christian experience and in whatever proportions they are mixed together, joy is one of them."

Joy is always present in the heart of a Christian. It may not always be felt or recognized -- but it is always there. And eventually it will break the surface, no matter what our situation or our circumstances. I have always maintained that joy is an inevitable part of the Christian life. Now I am sure.

Humble Learners

From: Boyd Bailey Ministries

John 16:13 "But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you to all truth..." 

In what area of life do you need to learn and grow? Where does the Holy Spirit need to educate you? Look to Him to "enlighten the eyes of your heart" that you may discern God's plan and purpose for your life. Take the time to stay true to a prayerful educational process and you will learn God’s best ideas.

Furthermore, learn from teachers who submit to the Holy Spirit as their primary teacher. Warm insightful teachers feed our heart’s humility. Men and women who are honest about their own struggles never run out of educational opportunities to share with others. 

The Spirit’s insights germinate in a soul in search of truth and its application. Thus, we are wise to learn directly and indirectly from the Spirit’s teachings. As long as we remain humble learners, we will understand more the fullness of Christ.

Oneness With God

From: Oswald Chambers Ministries

Ephesians 5:10 "Try to learn what is pleasing to the Lord." 

The true test of a person’s spiritual life and character is not what he does in the extraordinary moments of life, but what he does during the ordinary times when there is nothing tremendous or exciting happening. A person’s worth is revealed in his attitude toward the ordinary things of life when he or she is not under the spotlight.

In learning to walk with God, there is always the difficulty of getting into His stride, but once we have done so, the only characteristic that exhibits itself is the very life of God Himself. The individual person is merged into a personal oneness with God, and God’s stride and His power alone are exhibited.

Getting into God’s stride means nothing less than oneness with Him. It takes a long time to get there, but keep at it. Don’t give up because the pain is intense right now— get on with it, and before long you will find that you have a new vision and a new purpose.

The Love Of Christ

From: Selwyn Hughes Ministries

1 Corinthians 13:8 "Love never fails..."

The love which flows in our hearts when we are indwelt by the Holy Spirit is not a general love but a specific one -- the love of Christ. This love dulls the edge of disappointment and enables us to be invulnerable to many things. 

The nine ingredients of the fruit of the Spirit were all exemplified in Jesus' life on earth. It is the present purpose of the Holy Spirit to engraft them into us as we abide in Christ and maintain a close, day-by-day relationship with Him. 

Christians who dwell deeply in God find that they are changed from people who just love occasionally, when it is convenient, to people whose controlling purpose is love. Love becomes the organizing motive and power in their lives. Such love "never fails," for it always finds a way of expressing itself in a way pleasing to God.

Holy Spirit Guidance

From: Boyd Bailey Ministries

John 16:12 "I have much more to say to you, more than you can now bear."
 
The Holy Spirit holds back understanding until a disciple’s maturity can handle its ramifications. Too much information can confuse. Thus, through a tender process of gradual illumination, the Spirit of God shows sincere Jesus followers what they need to know, when they need to know. 

Infant faith does not have the capacity to comprehend like seasoned faith. The Lord gives discernment to those He can trust. For example, a 10-year-old is not prepared to drive a car. Physically and emotionally they are not ready, nor have they practiced and applied their motor skills behind two tons of steel. It is deadly for them and others to give a child a car.

Preparation precedes illumination. Understanding comes to those who remain faithful to the learning process.

"I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not yet ready for it. Indeed, you are still not ready." (1 Corinthians 3:2)

Weekend Meditation

James 4:14 “What is your life? It is a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away.”

Reminded that I am simply a steward of the gift of life God has given me. Try to make every day count for something good...and most of all pleasing to God. 

The Comforter

From: Boyd Bailey Ministries

John 14:17 "The world cannot accept Him (The Spirit of truth), because it neither sees Him nor knows Him. But you know Him, for He lives with you and will be in you." 

We all need the support of the Holy Spirit in our lives. He satisfies our thirsty spirit, heals our broken hearts, comforts us in our concerns, leads us through uncertainty and empowers us to engage the enemy with God’s word and prayer. The Spirit supports us when we lack the support of another. He lives within us to be with us.

The path to receiving the Spirit’s support is belief, love and obedience. We believe in the cross and resurrection of Christ. We love Christ and we obey Christ. This trilogy of attitude and action on our part sets us apart to experience the fullness of the Spirit. 

Whatever you need right now, the Holy Spirit has. If someone or something has stolen your joy, ask the Spirit to fill you with joy. If you need comfort, the Spirit will console you like a concerned care giver. If you need understanding on an issue He will teach you as you study holy Scripture. He helps you with whatever you need. He comforts, convicts and leads!

Honoring God

From: New Life Daily Devotions - Steve Arterburn

Matthew 22:37 "He said to him, 'You shall love the Lord your God, with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind and with all your strength.'"

At times, your life is probably hectic, demanding, and complicated. When the demands of life leave you rushing from place to place with scarcely a moment to spare, you may fail to pause and thank your Creator for the blessings He has bestowed upon you. 

But that’s a big mistake. If you honor God and place Him at the center of your life, every day is a cause for celebration. But if you fail to honor your Heavenly Father, you’re asking for trouble, and lots of it. 

So honor God for who He is and for what He has done for you. And don’t just honor Him on Sunday morning. Praise Him all day long, every day, for as long as you live . . . and then for all eternity.

A Life Well Lived

From: Boyd Bailey Ministries

John 14:15 "If you love Me, you will keep My commandments." 

A life motivated by love is foundational to the Christian faith. We serve, because we love. We worship, because we love. We care, because we love. We pray, because we love. We give, because we love. We work, because we love. We share the gospel, because we love. A life motivated by love for Jesus is a life well lived!

Moreover, love is foundational to obedience and obedience is the outcome of love. Love for God results in obeying God. As our heart is harnessed together with His--we are yoked together in His love.

Loving obedience to Jesus is the love of Jesus flowing through our life. Love is the driver behind works with eternal significance. Christ empowers us to love on His behalf. Love motivates us to obey Him!

The Appointed Time

From: Dr. Ed Young

Habakkuk 2:3 "For the vision is yet for the appointed time; it hastens toward the goal and it will not fail. Though it tarries, wait for it; for it will certainly come, it will not delay." 

God’s plan unfolds like a Chinese fan. An artist paints a delicate scene of a waterfall, full of color. But the whole fan must be opened before the picture is revealed, and it’s opened one panel at a time. 

Sometimes a section is blank, or nothing but squiggly lines. Periods in our lives make no sense or seem dull. But no panel can be opened until the one before it. And it takes all the sections to make up the picture. 

God is slowly opening His vision for your life and the world. He has an appointed time for the parts as well as the whole.

It's Just Part Of Life

From: Bryant Wright Ministries

Psalm 107:29 "He stilled the storm to a whisper; the waves of the sea were hushed."

Whenever you face a storm, your first urge may be to scream, “Why?” Certain storms come into our lives because of our own doing, but many challenges occur when we’re right in the middle of God’s will. We’re not doing anything wrong.  

Certainly, that was the case for the disciples. Jesus told them to get into the boat and row across the Sea of Galilee. They were obeying Jesus when they suddenly found themselves in a horrific storm. It was so bad, they didn’t even know if they would survive. But here is the important message from that event – they did survive. With the help of Jesus, they survived.

Accept the fact that your life will not be a perfectly smooth ride. The road will sometimes have bumps and potholes and sharp turns. All roads do. Look upon these tragedies and difficulties as part of life. Turn to Jesus for guidance, and He will be beside you as you ride out your storms.

Weekend Meditation

Romans 1:11-12 "For I long to see you, that I may share with you some spiritual gift so that you may be strengthened, that is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by one another's faith, yours and mine."

Reminded that the key to spiritual fellowship is mutual encouragement. "Give (encouragement) and it shall be given to you, and more."

Divine Appointments

From Boyd Bailey Ministries

Isaiah 6:8 "Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, 'Whom shall I send? Who will go for Us?' Here I am, I said, send me."  

Spirit filled followers of Christ are always on the look out for those who will listen to the good news about Jesus. They believe the Lord is at work all around them in the hearts of men and women, young and old. Daily encounters with people are not accidents, but divine appointments. 

The Christian life is an adventure of blessing others with the knowledge of the hope, love and forgiveness found in Jesus. We can be confident that God is on the hunt for His own.

Is your spiritual antennae up throughout the day for those who need the good news about Jesus? Prayerfully ask the Holy Spirit to prepare the way for you to be a blessing to others.

Godly Wisdom

From: Boyd Bailey Ministries

Ephesians 3:17-19 "May Christ dwell in your hearts through faith, and may charity and love be the root and foundation of your life. Thus you will be able to grasp fully, with all the holy ones, the length, breadth, depth, and height of Christ's love and experience this love which surpasses all knowledge, so that you may attain to the fullness of God Himself."

To know Christ is to know and understand Godly wisdom. Because wisdom starts with Jesus, it is necessary to first enter into a personal relationship with Him.   

Since we have access to wisdom through faith in Jesus, then it is wise to lean into understanding His ways. We can anticipate—like a starved man or woman coming off of a ten-day hunger strike—a smorgasbord of truth at our disposal. His wisdom is rich in relational nutrients, spiritual nourishment and emotional energy. 

As the personification of wisdom we look and see a Man who unconditionally loved people. He loved the rich and the poor—He loved all races—He loved male and female alike—He loved city folks and country dwellers—the educated and uneducated felt His fierce love—Kings and commoners did not escape His all-consuming compassion.

Spiritual Growth

From: New Life Daily Devotions - Steve Arterburn

Isaiah 55:8 "'For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways,' declares the Lord."

 
People today are striving for personal improvement, self-empowerment, and inner strength. Yet, Christianity has a completely opposite way of thinking; it’s full of paradoxes. We die to live; we lose to find; and we surrender to gain strength.

When Jesus overcame death, He defeated the worst enemy of all. Today we’re left to battle with far lesser foes, knowing that He’s already won the war. When we stop trying to control the outcome of every situation and stop demanding that God resolve our problems according to our dictates, we unlock the door for God to show us His redemptive purpose.

Praying, “Your will be done” gets us out of God’s way and removes our ideas as to how things are supposed to work out in our lives, and allows God’s ideas to take control. Spiritual growth results from trusting Jesus. A life of faith will enable you to trust God increasingly without knowing what’s around the corner. 

The Truth About Happiness

From: Greg Laurie Ministries

Habakkuk 3:18 "Yet I will rejoice in the Lord! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation!"

God wants us to experience joy as believers—not a fickle happiness that depends on circumstances or changes with the wind direction, but a joy that remains in spite of what may be taking place around you. 

Anyone can be relatively happy when things are going well. But when you face adversity or sickness or hardship and then rejoice, you show that something supernatural has occurred in your life. In fact, you show yourself to be a faithful Christian. This is a unique trait of believers—that we can rejoice when things go wrong.

God is still on the throne. You're still going to heaven. You're still forgiven. God still has a plan for your life; He has not abandoned you. Recognize that in spite of what you may be going through right now, His plans for you are still good. And He will never leave or forsake you. And that's why when things are looking really bad for us, we can say, "Yet I will rejoice in the Lord! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation!"

Weekend Meditation

Matthew 14:31 "Immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and caught him, and said to him, 'O you of little faith, why did you doubt?'"

Good reminder to always stay focused on Jesus, in good times and in troubled waters!

God's Plan For Your Life

From: The Purpose Driven Life Ministries

Ephesians 5:17 "Do not continue in ignorance, but try to discern the will of the Lord."

It’s wise to figure out why you were put on earth. It’s unwise to go through life without a clue.

Fortunately, God doesn’t play games with us. He wants us to understand His will for our lives. When we look toward the wrong things, we create barriers to discovering God’s will.

First and foremost, God wants you to get to know Him, like He already knows you. Once this relationship is established, everything else—career, family, goals, recreation, ambitions, finances, health and friendships—will begin to fall into their proper place.

Regardless of the circumstances of your birth, you are not an accident. God does have a plan for your life and He wants you to not only know it, but to succeed at it!

The Secret Of Contentment

From: Boyd Bailey Ministries

Philippians 4:11-12 "I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty."  

Contentment is the ability to endure hardships or handle prosperity. Contentment has a way of cleansing our motives. It moves us closer to Christ’s heart. Contentment grows our trust in Jesus.

Paul understood the fruit of contentment. He was a work in progress, but by God’s grace he had progressed. He used hard times to better understand the heart of God. From the beginning of His walk with Jesus he submitted to whatever He wanted. 

Like wisdom and humility, we are always learning and growing in the discipline of contentment. The secret is surrender to Jesus Christ and by faith allowing Him to live His life through us. His strength sustains us. His Spirit empowers us. His wisdom enlightens us. His humility humbles us. His love embraces us. 

Reverence For God

From: Ambassadors For Christ International - John North

Psalm 111:10 "The fear (reverence) of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; a good understanding have all those who do His commandments; His praise endures forever."

The most important thing about your life is your perception of who God is. If you truly understand the nature of God in all His glory and omnipotence and infinity and eternity, and His holiness and goodness and mercy and love, then you will realize that God doesn’t exist for you, but you exist for Him. In fact, all things exist for Him.

That reverence for God will change your perspective on life and enable you to see clearly the way forward from where you are. What would He want for your life? What would He want you to do? How would He want you to respond to your circumstances? 

By considering what He wants, you’ll gain wisdom and overflow with praise. Give God first place in your life if you want the wisdom to put Godly goals into place and live them out!

The Necessity Of Prayer

From: Bryant Wright Ministries

Luke 18:1 "Then He told them a parable about the necessity for them to pray always without becoming weary."

After Christ’s resurrection, He spent 40 days with His disciples explaining what the mission of the church should be. Before He ascended to heaven, Jesus told them to go to Jerusalem and wait in the upper room. They were in the upper room for ten days—in a ten-day prayer meeting asking for God’s guidance and waiting for God to lead them. 

God responded powerfully with the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. The church actually originated from a prayer meeting of waiting on God.

Throughout scripture, we see that Jesus was quite clear that His house was to be a house of prayer. Throughout His mission on earth, Jesus regularly immersed Himself with prayer, setting the example for His followers. Jesus taught us how to pray. And His church was founded on prayer.

God Is Tracking You

From: Joe Gibbs Ministries

Psalm 139:4 "Even before a word is on my tongue, Lord, You know it all."

God knows your every thought. He knows the number of hairs on your head; knows the hopes and dreams that pulsate in your heart. He's able to "write in the register of the peoples: ‘This one was born in Zion.'" (Psalm 87:6)—in Charlotte, in Denver, in Atlanta, in Houston. Everywhere you've been, everywhere you go, He's tracking you.

But not to hurt you. God uses His knowledge to direct your steps, to bring you growth opportunities, to meet very specific needs, to send you help when you're hurting. 

The more He knows, the better. The more you trust Him, the safer you'll be.

Weekend Meditation

John 14:1 "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in Me."

Comforting...if you are a believer!

Opportunities

From: Bob Gass Ministries

Job 1:20 "Job... fell to the ground and worshipped."

Every day God sends us opportunities for Spiritual growth - disguised as problems. Nowhere is this more evident than in the life of Job the patriarch. After losing his house, his children, his livestock, and his health, the Bible says, "Job… fell to the ground and worshiped." That's not the normal human response to tragedy. 

In the midst of his troubles, Job saw the God who promised to direct each step we take. More importantly, he trusted God's heart of love and recognized His sovereign right to decide all things. He reminded himself that in the final analysis God will make everything right for us. He knew that God was teaching him something valuable through this experience: "When He has tried me, I shall come forth as gold." (Job 23:10) 

The trials, tribulations and adversity that lie around the bend make us want to cut and run. But if you do you'll short-circuit God's plan for your life. So what should you do? "Trust in the Lord with all your heart..." (Proverbs 3:5) because trust always leads to deliverance.

Know Your Purpose

From: Bayless Conley Ministries

1 Corinthians 9:26 "So I run straight to the goal with purpose in every step."

People will sometimes innocently divert you from doing what God has called you to do. It is only when you know your purpose that you will not be sidetracked, and you will not be distracted from what you are supposed to do.

The apostle Paul knew his purpose. In fact, he said this, "So I run straight to the goal with purpose in every step." He was not about to get distracted from God's purpose for his life.

Our lives are not to be aimless, but they are to have purpose and direction, and we are to stay focused on that purpose, running straight at that goal. Keep focused on the purpose for which God has created you.

Timeless Life

From: Bryant Wright Ministries

2 Peter 3:8 "...with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day."

It’s no real surprise to most of us that God’s time table is completely different than ours. The Bible tells us that to God, one day is as 1000 years and 1000 years are as one day. He sees the past, present, and future all at once, for He is over time. That blows my mind. 

We are so finite. We begin, we end. God is infinite. He always was, is, and will always be.

When we get to heaven, there will be no clocks, no calendars – just unlimited time. We’ll never be tired, and that will be great! Even though God is over time, at the perfect time He became one of us – as a baby boy. He invaded history right on time – BC/AD – it was the zero hour – to show us Himself and save us from sin and offer us eternal life with Him – timeless life.

Working For God

From: Today God Is First - Os Hillman

1 Corinthians 10:31 "Whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all for the glory of God."

Our Lord never saw the mundane activities as ordinary. Whether He healed the sick or sat around the fire with the disciples, He did not see one activity as spiritual and the other non-spiritual. Life was lived as a holy service to His Heavenly Father.

Many times we fall prey to a spiritual hierarchy mentality. We believe certain activity is more blessed by God because it is done under a spiritual guise. We conduct our Christian meetings and conclude one is blessed by God based on attendance. We work to give money to ministry when we fail to recognize the very work we do is ministry.

God's glory can be expressed in the most common task. Whether washing the dishes, or changing diapers or driving to the grocery store...it doesn't matter. "Whatever you do, do from the heart, as for the Lord and not for others..." (Colossians 3:23) 

Relationships

From: InTouch Ministries

1 Thessalonians 1:2 "We keep thanking God for all of you and we remember you in our prayers..."


Paul gave relationships a high priority. The apostle surrounded himself with people who could help him achieve two things: fulfillment of his God-given mission and conformity to Christlikeness. While Paul was pouring himself into the lives of others, he was being built up and strengthened by his fellow believers.

It does matter whom we allow to influence our lives. The Father equips your brothers and sisters to invest in you—to encourage you and to pray for you. Good relationships with people who build each other up can help believers fulfill God’s plan for their lives.

The finest relationships are between people who want to see each other succeed in faith. In other words, our best friends are those who love us as we are and never cease to encourage us on our spiritual journey.

Weekend Meditation

Deuteronomy 10:14 “Think! The Heavens, even the highest Heavens, belong to the Lord, your God, as well as the earth and everything on it.”    

Reminded that I am simply a temporary guest here on earth...just passing through on my way to Heaven.

True Friend

From: Today God Is First - Os Hillman

Revelation 3:20 "Here I stand, knocking at the door. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with Me."


I am constantly amazed that the Creator of the universe wants to have an intimate relationship with us. While we are frantically searching for that certain something to make us happy, God is standing there the entire time saying "Here I am!"

The scripture in Revelation says that He is standing at our door and knocking. If only we would take the time to listen and invite Him in! 

Jesus says, "... I call you friends because I have told you everything I have heard from My Father." (John 15:15) Jesus, our Savior, wants to be our friend. Amazing! 

Unlimited Strength And Resources

From: In Touch Ministries

Psalm 46:10 "Be still and know that I am God."

God wants us to look at every obstacle through the lens of His unlimited strength and resources. Anything that appears to block His plans is an opportunity for Him to demonstrate His sovereign power. Just because we don't see anything happening, that doesn't mean He's inactive.

Always remember that God is at work on the other side of our obstacles, arranging the details and bringing His plans to fruition. God is not limited with regard to whom or what He can use to accomplish His will. 

For Christians, great obstacles need not be reasons for discouragement. Although much of the Lord's activity is silent and invisible, we can be sure He is dynamically working out His will for our lives. 

Inner Peace

From: Bryant Wright Ministries

John 16:33 "These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but take heart, I have overcome the world."

People today live such high pressure-filled lives, and it’s taking its toll. The American Academy of Family Physicians says that two-thirds of all visits to doctors are stress related, and that stress is now known as the major contributor to heart disease, cancer, accidental injuries, and suicide.

People attend stress seminars and devour books on stress. Stress and pressure are a part of life. Even Christ promised us that we’ll all face it. He said, "In the world you will have tribulation." Tribulation also means pressure. He goes on to say, "but take heart, I have overcome the world." 

Jesus does not promise us freedom from pressure, but He does promise us peace amidst the stress. Inner peace is a by-product of knowing Christ as Savior and Lord. The good news is, it’s available to all who trust in Him.

Holy, Holy, Holy

From: Michael Youssef Ministries

Isaiah 6:3 "And they were calling to one another: ‘Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty; the whole earth is full of His glory.'"

In the 6th Chapter of Isaiah we get a glimpse of God's glory in heaven that we cannot see on earth. His glory is hidden from view in our political system, in our schools, in our culture—yet right now in heaven, angels are awestruck by God and are worshiping Him. 

Angels stand in holy fear and reverence of the holiness of God. What an incredible picture! This vision was so moving for Isaiah he said, "‘Woe is me!' I cried. ‘I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the Lord Almighty.'" (Isaiah 6:5)

Every time we enter God's presence in praise and prayer, we should feel as humbled as the prophet Isaiah. We should stand in awe of His holiness. We should feel overwhelmed with gratitude and thankfulness. Spend time in prayer today praising Him for His holiness. 

Love Letter From God

From: Boyd Bailey Ministries

1 Peter 1:25 "...The word of the Lord endures forever..."  

The Bible is an individualized love letter delivered to each disciple of Jesus for his or her unique situation. A word from the Lord gives hope in the face of discouragement, wisdom for understanding, and courage to confront injustice. Scriptures planted in the human heart are seeds of faith for the soul.


We are blessed when we seek counsel from the wise, but when we receive direction from almighty God in His Word, we can rest secure. The Bible is the baseline for our beliefs and behavior. It is the first and the final say for faith-based living. 

God’s Word nourishes our soul, is a trailblazer for truth, and leads us into His very best for our life. His Holy Spirit brings to life the pages of His Word in prayer. Study to know the truth, then listen to apply the truth. 

Weekend Meditation

John 8:31-32 "…If you remain in My Word, you are truly My disciples; then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."

Reminded of the best way to stay connected to Christ, in the words of Christ Himself...read and study the Bible often. 

Wisdom

From: Boyd Bailey Ministries

Proverbs 23:19 "Be wise, and guide your heart in the right way."

The wise are pure in motive and peace loving in relationships. They defer to the needs of others, submit to authority, initiate empathy, bear the fruit of the Spirit, gather all the facts before making a decision and are genuine in their concerns. Wisdom and character are prayer partners in their faith journey.

Godly wisdom is keenly aware of the need to be consistent in its character. Our persuasive speech falls on deaf ears when it does not have the backing of being a person of honesty and honor.

Wisdom gives you the platform to influence others into a relationship with Jesus. Thus, keep your character submitted to the character of Christ and you will remain wise.

Finishing Well

From: New Life Daily Devotionals - Steve Arterburn

2 Timothy 4:7 "I have fought a good fight; I have finished the race; I have kept the faith."
 
Our culture has become enamored with instant results and quick fixes. E-mail, text messaging, on-line banking, fast food, instant mashed potatoes, and countless options like them have eroded our capacity for patience and perseverance.

So when it comes to spiritual growth, we tend to expect instant transformation rather than viewing our growth in Christ as a long-term—and potentially costly—endeavor. Yet I’ve learned an important truth that’s been verified time and again by the testimony of Scripture: It’s not how you start that’s important; it’s how you finish.

Finishing well in the Christian life requires purposeful planning and a clear view of reality on your part. It won’t happen by accident. 

An Audience Of One

From: Our Daily Bread Ministries

Colossians 3:17 "Whatever you do, whether in speech or in action, do it in the name of the Lord Jesus."

When I worked as a young journalist for Campus Life magazine, my assistant kept a plaque on her desk with this two-line poem: "Only one life, twill soon be past / Only what’s done for Christ will last." According to Jesus, it’s what God thinks of us that matters, not what others think. 

Jesus instructed us to pray in a closed room, where no one could see us, rather than in a public place where we might get credit for being spiritual. (Matthew 6:6) In other words, live for God and not others.

How would our lives differ if we truly played to an audience of One? Certainly we would no longer need to worry about proving ourselves to others. We could concentrate instead on pleasing God by living in a way that would attract people to Jesus.

Reliable Guide

From: Our Daily Bread Ministries

Psalm 119:105 "Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path."

As we navigate the seas of life, we have a reliable source of spiritual direction—the Bible. The psalmist wrote, “Oh, how I love Your law! It is my meditation all the day.” (Psalm 119:97)

Rather than occasionally glancing at God’s Word, he spoke of pondering the Lord’s directions throughout each day: “Your testimonies are my meditation.” (Psalm 119:99) This was coupled with a commitment to obey the Author: “I have sworn and confirmed that I will keep Your righteous judgments.” (Psalm 119:106)

Like the mariners of old, we need a constant guide to help us find our way and stay on course. That’s what happens when we seek the Lord day by day with an open heart and a willing spirit that says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”

Divine Order

From: Bryant Wright Ministries

Romans 1:20 "For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made. As a result they are without excuse." 

About this time of year, we’re getting a bit weary of the heat and find ourselves looking forward to the fall. The crisp coolness of the morning air, the beauty of the changing leaves. (And, of course, the excitement of FOOTBALL season.) This time of year really invigorates me! It’s easy to be enthusiastic about life when the world around us is so colorful.

The changing of the seasons reminds us that God created a universe where there is order. Fall follows summer every year. The seasons come like clockwork. So dependable are the season changes that we often take them for granted. The Bible tells us that even if we had no other way of knowing that there is a God, nature alone is enough proof of His existence. Creation shows us God’s power, and so much of His divine nature.

As you enjoy the change of seasons each year, I hope you’ll acknowledge the Creator of such beauty and majesty. He’s a God of order in creation and, best of all, His greatest desire is to have a personal relationship with you.

Weekend Meditation

James 4:8 "Draw close to God and He will draw close to you."

Reminded that God is always ready to put His arms around us. He's just waiting for the invitation.

Sufficient Grace

From: Through The Bible Daily Devotionals 

2 Corinthians 12:7-9 "To keep me from becoming conceited because of these surpassingly great revelations, there was given me a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me."

When a speaker comes and insists on sharing a long litany of his accomplishments, publications, and degrees, you can be fairly certain they are not relying on the Holy Spirit. When Paul compared himself to the false teachers that were trying to draw the Corinthians away from the truths Paul taught, Paul said it was his weaknesses that were worth boasting about, not strengths.

He had seen revelations that could not be repeated, so to keep him from thinking to highly about himself, God gave him an affliction of some kind. We don't know what it was, but here it is called a thorn in the flesh and a messenger of Satan. He said that it tormented him. Praying three different times for deliverance from it did not help. Eventually he heard from God, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness."


Sometimes God does not deliver us from our suffering but gives us the grace to endure it. That can be a more powerful testimony of God at work in us than if we were to be healed. You probably know someone that lives with hardship and yet does so graciously, even helping others in the process. That says more about the power of God in their life than if they were to be healed. 

The Secret Place Of Your Heart

From: Oswald Chambers Ministries

Matthew 6:6 "When you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly."

Having a secret stillness before God means deliberately shutting the door on our emotions and remembering Him. God is in secret, and He sees us from “the secret place”— He does not see us as other people do, or as we see ourselves. 

When we truly live in “the secret place,” it becomes impossible for us to doubt God. We become more sure of Him than of anyone or anything else. Enter into “the secret place,” and you will find that God was right in the middle of your everyday circumstances all the time. Get into the habit of dealing with God about everything. 

Unless you learn to open the door of your life completely and let God in from your first waking moment of each new day, you will be working on the wrong level throughout the day. But if you will swing the door of your life fully open and “pray to your Father who is in the secret place,” every public thing in your life will be marked with the lasting imprint of the presence of God.

Patience

From: Michael Youssef Ministries

Colossians 3:12 "Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience."

The source of true patience is the Spirit of God. His patience toward us allows us the opportunity to grow and to become more like Him. He does not give up on us. When we are stubborn and fail to learn what God wants to teach us, He continues to demonstrate His patience.

Many times, we grow impatient with a colleague, friend, child, or spouse and forget that God is patient with us and requires us to do the same with others. One of the causes of impatience is spiritual shortsightedness. Our view is limited. Therefore, many times we only see what has a direct impact on our lives. We become impatient because we can't see life from God's perspective!

God has a greater plan. While He does not always show us the details, we can know the big picture—we are in His loving hands.

A Joyful Guide

From: Boyd Bailey Ministries

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 "Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."
 
When we became followers of Jesus we were born into His spiritual ecosystem. The air of His environment is pure and cleansing. So, as faithful disciples we learn to use our spiritual lungs to breathe in the oxygen of God’s ongoing awareness. 

Prayer is the will of God, that reveals the will of God. We know without a doubt we traffic in the middle of the Lord’s will as we engage in prayer. Constant prayer is a joyful guide.

Not praying is like holding our breath; we deny spiritual oxygen to our thoughts. When we pray without ceasing, or put another way, staying connected to Christ throughout the day, we are alert to the Spirit’s promptings, and our spiritual antennae are tuned in, clear and receptive.  

The Dash

From: Greg Laurie Ministries

John 15:8 "By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples."

What are you supposed to do with your life? According to Scripture, we are all placed here on this earth to glorify and honor God and produce spiritual fruit in our lives.

We don’t determine how long we will live on this earth. We may try. It is God who decided when we were to be born. And it is God who decides when we will die. We have nothing to say about those dates. But we have everything to say about the dash in between them.

So how do we live out the dash? We are here to glorify God. We don’t all have the same talents, but we have all been given our lives. Let’s invest our lives in the pursuit of God's will...bearing much fruit!

Weekend Meditation

Deuteronomy 31:6 "Be brave and steadfast; have no fear for it is the Lord, your God, Who marches with you. He will never fail you or forsake you."

Comforting!

God's Love For Us

From: Through The Bible Daily Devotions

Romans 8:38-39 "For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."


Can anything separate you from God's love? Paul was convinced that nothing could, and he should know. He went through shipwreck, beatings, scourgings, lack of food, abandonment, and much more. Look what he lists here: death, life, angels, demons, present, future, any powers, height, depth, or anything else in all creation. That about covers it. 

If God is the Creator and is determined to love you, why would anything He made be able to separate you from His love? What a sense of security the believer should have! 

We should be as convinced as the Apostle Paul. When you are convinced of so great a love, you find personal worth in it, peace, comfort, and joy unspeakable and full of glory. There is nothing that love will not see you through!

It's Not Complicated

From: Ambassadors For Christ International - John North

Psalm 16:11 "You will make known to me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; in Your right hand there are pleasures forever."

God wants us to know that He has made us to find meaning in Him. Feelings of emptiness should be a signal to us that we need to focus more on our walk with Him. Anything else that we look to as a way to fill up our emptiness is an idol to us. We are allowing that thing or activity to take the place that only God should have in our lives.

God will oppose that misplaced allegiance. You’ll never find the peace, meaning and wholeness that you seek until you find it in God. But when you truly build your life around God, He’ll meet every need. 

God made us to live lives of meaning and purpose. Meaning in life is found in your relationship with God!

The Essence Of Life

From: Jack Graham Ministries

James 3:17 "But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere."


It’s amazing to think about all the advances in human thought that have been brought about over the years. Isaac Newton was sitting under a tree one day when an apple fell on his head, inspiring him to coin the Universal Law of Gravitation. And when Gutenberg saw a scribe diligently copying a scroll, he thought there must be a better way and invented the printing press.

It was Einstein who conceived the Theory of General Relativity and turned the science world on its head. And the great writer William Shakespeare penned some of the most prolific theatrical plays in the history of the world.

Yes, mankind has had some amazing thoughts that have changed the world. But I believe none of them compare to the profoundly simple words of the shepherd-king named David, who wrote, “The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want.” (Psalm 23:1) In that phrase, He summed up the essence of life: to acknowledge God and find our satisfaction in Him.

The Word Of God

From: Billy Graham Ministries

2 Timothy 3:16 "All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, reproof, correction and training in holiness..."


Although one can derive inspiration from any portion of the Scripture, it is better to have an understanding of the general structure of the Bible to get the most out of it. The Old Testament is an account of a nation, Israel. Out of that nation came Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world. 

The New Testament is an account of a Man, the Son of man, the Savior. God Himself became a man, so that we might know what He is like. His appearance on the earth was the central, most important event of history. 

The Old Testament gives the background for this event; the New Testament tells the story of its fulfillment. You will find a unity of thought and purpose which indicates that one mind inspired the writing of the whole.

Prayer for the day: Inspire me, Lord God, as I read the Bible so that I may be able to understand more clearly Your divine teachings.

Faith And Perspective

From: Bob Gass Ministries

Philippians 1:6 "For I am confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will complete it until the day of Christ Jesus."


Acclaimed leadership author John Maxwell wrote in his book, Failing Forward: How to Make the Most of Your Mistakes, this inspirational thought: "If you know who you are, make the changes you must in order to learn and grow, and then give everything you've got to your dreams, you can achieve anything your heart desires." 

As Maxwell says: "If you tend to focus on the particular events in your life, try to put things into perspective. When you do, you'll be able to share the philosophy of someone such as the apostle Paul, who was able to say, 'I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content.'" (Philippians 4:11) And that was saying a lot, considering that Paul had been shipwrecked, whipped, beaten, stoned, and imprisoned. Throughout everything, his faith enabled him to maintain perspective. 

God gave you these unique abilities because He has plans for you: "'I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper and not harm you, plans to give you a future full of hope.'" (Jeremiah 29:11)

Weekend Meditation

1 Corinthians 13:7 "Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance."

Reminded that love trumps everything!

Prayer

From: Oswald Chambers Ministries

1 Thessalonians 5:20 "Pray without ceasing."

“Your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him.”(Matthew 6:8) Then why should we ask? The point of prayer is not to get answers from God, but to have perfect and complete oneness with Him. 

If we pray only because we want answers, we will become irritated and angry with God. We receive an answer every time we pray, but it does not always come in the way we expect, and our spiritual irritation shows our refusal to identify ourselves truly with our Lord in prayer. 

When prayer seems to be unanswered, beware of trying to place the blame on someone else. That is always a trap of Satan. When you seem to have no answer, there is always a reason— God uses these times to give you deep personal instruction, and it is not for anyone else but you.

God's Good Plan

From: Ambassadors For Christ International - John North

Psalm 139:16 "Your eyes foresaw my actions; in Your book all are written down; my days were shaped before one came to be." 


The secular world would like you to believe that your life has no meaning of its own, no higher purpose, that your life is the random outcome of a chance series of events emerging out of hundreds of millions of years of chaos. But in this Psalm, God is saying to you, “I was intimately involved in making you. I have plans for you. You fit into what I am doing in this world.”

If you have not yet discovered God’s plan for your life, I encourage you to begin focusing on your spiritual life. Spend time with God in prayer. Read His word, the Bible. Listen to what He is saying to you about your life.

As you get yourself in a place where you are spiritually sensitive to God, you will find that He is leading you forward daily in His will for you. From God’s perspective you have been uniquely shaped to fit His good plan for you.

Empowered By The Holy Spirit

From: Ambassadors For Christ International - John North

Acts 1:8 "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth.

God has placed His Holy Spirit in your life to empower your life to be lived for His glory. The world we have grown up in teaches us to rely on our own abilities in life; it teaches us to believe in ourselves and be confident in ourselves. But God wants us to believe in Him and be confident in Him.

If you choose to live life in your own power, you will only accomplish normal things. But if you choose to live life in God’s power, following His leading, then your life will be marked by the activity of God which cannot be explained by your own abilities.

God doesn’t just want you to rely on Him for the huge issues of life, but for your everyday life and interactions with others. Learn to put God first in your choices and depend on His power in everything you do. 

True Peace

From: Michael Youssef Ministries

Philippians 4:7 "The peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

True peace only comes as a result of living a life filled with the Spirit of God. It is eternal and has only one source—Jesus Christ. Charles Spurgeon writes, "The God of peace gives perfect peace to those whose hearts are fixed upon Him."

In order to experience the peace of God, we first must have peace with God—which comes as the result of a complete surrender to Christ as our Lord and Savior. Once we are saved, God's peace is available to us. Sadly, many people are in a position to have everything they could possibly want in this world, but they still do not have a sense of peace.

Before His death, Jesus comforted His disciples with these words: "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." (John 14:27) We, too, can find the peace and comfort we need within His eternal care.

Total Trust

From: Boyd Bailey 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."
   
Total trust in God is available to every follower of Jesus Christ. It means you give up total control, and the Lord’s assurance replaces your fear with peace. You cannot figure it all out but you do have the capacity to trust Him totally.

If you can trust Him with the big things, you can trust Him with the small things. If He led you to the right spouse, He will give you the opportunities to provide. If He led you to a new career, He will give you the wisdom, finances, and relationships to be successful. If He led you to have children, He will provide for the needed resources to be successful parents.
 
Wherever God leads He provides. What God initiates He completes. His part is provision and our part is trust. Don’t fall into the trap of trusting Him with some things and not trusting Him with others. Trust in God means you patiently walk with Him in your decisions and choices. Slow down, look up, trust Him, and watch for extraordinary results. 

Weekend Meditation

Matthew 6:9-13 “This is how you are to pray: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name, Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.” 

Since this is not a suggestion or recommendation, but rather a clear directive from Christ, I'll make this daily prayer my first communication in the morning and last communication at night to my Lord.   

God's Plan

From: Boyd Bailey Ministries

Proverbs 16:9 "A man’s mind plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps."

God places His plan in the heart and mind of man. Indeed, His divine desires are meant to manage the motivations of believers. We can be confident as we walk with Christ that He will fill our conscience with His course of action. 

Like a meandering river, we normally make our way through life not knowing for certain what’s around the next bend, but we keep believing in the goodness of God to guide us. We plan and trust God’s hand to point us in the right direction.

Furthermore, our heavenly Father will direct our steps after we take the first step of faith. Like a child learning to walk we will stumble and fall, but our loving Father will pick us up and encourage us to continue on in His strength. The Holy Spirit can better direct a life actively moving forward by faith, than one passively stuck in fear or apathy. 

The Bible

From: Bryant Wright Ministries

2 Timothy 3:16-17 "All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, reproof, correction and training in holiness so that one who belongs to God may be fully competent and equipped for every good work."

You can find at least one copy of the Bible in most homes, but often just sitting on the shelf collecting dust. Yet, no book is richer or more timeless than the Bible. It is filled with story after story that are not only amazing to read, but once you get involved in it, you’ll find how God uses it to teach and guide us and how most of all, God uses it to help us know His mind and heart.

Listen to what it says: "All Scripture is inspired by God." Amazing! Over forty authors, who wrote over a period of 1,600 years, were all inspired by the same God to give a clear and coherent message.

Scripture shows us how we can face every challenge with wisdom and strength. The Bible is a great read. I hope you’ll read it with the faith that God wants to speak to you through His Word. You just may find the answers to your life. "Your word is a lamp for my feet, and a light for my path." (Psalm 119:105)

The Greatest Commandment

From: Ambassadors For Christ International - John North

Matthew 22:35-38 "One of them, a lawyer, asked Jesus a question, testing Him, 'Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?' And He said to him, 'You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the greatest and the first commandment.'"


Jesus is telling us what is the most important concern God has about our lives. God wants your love for Him to be the core of your life. Your love for God should be the bottom line of all decision making in your life.

When reacting to someone who has treated you badly, remember your love for God. When given the opportunity to share Christ with someone, remember your love for God. When your alarm goes off for your quiet time with God and you are tired, remember your love for God.

Think about relationships. What things make any relationship grow deeper and stronger? Now apply those things to your relationship with God. How can you take your relationship with God deeper? Commit to Him with all your heart, soul and mind.

Trust In God

From: Boyd Bailey Ministries

2 Corinthians 4:18 “So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”

Trust in God is like being an instrument rated pilot who flies through the night. The flickering lights that illumine the ground can be misleading. It is the accuracy of the pilot’s instrument panel that can be trusted.

So are the instruments of prayer, God’s word and wise counsel. God uses these tools to provide you the coordinates on how to direct your life. Do not be in a hurry. Good things happen to those who wait on God. He gives you His coordinates for your life as you are ready to receive them. Whether they come one at a time or all at once, remain patient.

Trust in God. He is trustworthy. You cannot see Him, but you can see His evidences all around you. Trust means you moment-by-moment give to God everything, especially those things out of your control. 

The Process Itself

From: Oswald Chambers Ministries

Psalm 94:12 "Happy those whom You guide Lord, whom You teach by Your instruction."

What is my vision of God’s purpose for me? Whatever it may be, His purpose is for me to depend on Him and on His power now. If I can stay calm, faithful, and unconfused while in the middle of the turmoil of life, the goal of the purpose of God is being accomplished in me. 

God is not working toward a particular finish— His purpose is the process itself. It is the process, not the outcome, that is glorifying to God.

God’s training is for now, not later. His purpose is for this very minute, not for sometime in the future. What people call preparation, God sees as the goal itself. If we have a further goal in mind, we are not paying enough attention to the present time. 

Weekend Meditation

Micah 6:8 "You have been told what is good and what God requires of you. It is only this: that you live justly, love tenderly and walk humbly with your God."

Reminded that if I just pay attention, it's not complicated.

Defining Moment

From: Today God Is First - Os Hillman

2 Timothy 4:7 "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."

History often remembers people because of a defining moment that took place in their life. There are good defining moments and bad defining moments. History is filled with them! From Adam and Eve to the famous and infamous events of today!

How would you like to be remembered? Is there a defining moment in your life with which others will associate your name?

For most of us we can still define our moments for the future. God may yet have a defining moment when you will discover something new or see the work of God in your life in a unique way. I think God likes defining moments. He wants you to have an experience with Him that is memorable.

Holy Spirit Guide Us

From: Boyd Bailey Ministries

John 16:13 "When He comes, the Spirit of Truth, He will guide you to all truth..."

God reveals wisdom to those who love Him. The Holy Spirit gives us discernment to know the difference between authentic wisdom from the Almighty and the wisdom of the world.

The Holy Spirit validates your belief in Jesus and confirms your commitment to Christ, by giving assurance to your soul. As you pray the Spirit ushers you into the presence of your heavenly Father, and with peaceful delight communes and communicates on your behalf.

The Holy Spirit’s work is not meant to be mystical and weird, but practical and real. He provides comfort when you hurt, conviction when you stray and direction when you are unsure. Therefore, daily, enter into the fullness of the Spirit — be aware of what God has already given you by faith.

Hope Begins With God

From: New Life Daily Devotions - Steve Arterburn

John 16:33 "These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world."


The hope that the world offers is fleeting and imperfect. The hope that God offers is unchanging, unshakable, and unending. It is no wonder, then, that when we seek security from worldly sources, our hopes are often dashed and our stresses are often increased. Thankfully, God has no such record of failure.

Where will you place your hopes today? Will you entrust your future to man or to God? Will you seek solace exclusively from fallible human beings, or will you place your hopes, first and foremost, in the trusting hands of your Creator? The decision is yours.

For thoughtful believers, hope begins with God. Period. So today, as you embark upon the next stage of your life’s journey, consider the words of the Psalmist: "You are my hope; O Lord God, You are my confidence." (71:5) Then, place your trust in the One who cannot be shaken.

Marinate Your Mind In Truth

From: Boyd Bailey Ministries

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."

The Holy Spirit brings to mind what we need to remember. He has a plan for us to follow. His plans are for our good and what’s best for our entire circle of influence. Miraculously, the Spirit can cut through all the clutter of our concerns and remind us of a simple thought. What may seem an ‘out of the blue’ idea to us, is squarely on the heart of Christ. Thus, we keep an open mind so our heavenly Father can bring to mind His thought.

Furthermore, not only does the Holy Spirit remind us of thoughts already embedded in our brain, He also brings new thoughts to mind. God’s thoughts are radically different, hence easily recognized, if we are paying attention.


Above all, we are wise to keep our mind’s eye on our master Jesus. Thus, we marinate our minds in truth, so the Spirit has a deep reservoir of wisdom to draw from. Scripture reading with a humble heart renews our mind. The Holy Spirit transforms our behavior when we listen to biblical teaching with a teachable spirit. Indeed, the Spirit brings to mind what we need in the moment!

Not By Impressive Speech

From: Oswald Chambers Ministries

1 Corinthians 2:4-5 "My speech and my preaching were not with persuasive words of wisdom, but with a demonstration of spirit and power, so that your faith might rest not on human wisdom but on the power of God."

Paul was a scholar and an orator of the highest degree but was saying that when he preached the gospel, he would veil the power of God if he impressed people with the excellency of his speech. Belief in Jesus is a miracle produced only by the effectiveness of redemption, not by impressive speech, nor by wooing and persuading, but only by the sheer unaided power of God. 

The creative power of redemption comes through the preaching of the gospel, but never because of the personality of the preacher. Real and effective fasting by a preacher is not fasting from food, but fasting from eloquence, from impressive diction, and from everything else that might hinder the gospel of God being presented. 

The preacher is there as the representative of God. He is there to present the gospel of God. If it is only because of his preaching that people desire to be better, they will never get close to Jesus Christ. 

Weekend Meditation

Amos 9:15 "I will plant them upon their own ground; never again shall they be plucked from the land I have given them, say I, the Lord, your God."

Thinking about our friends in Israel as events unfold.

The Most Important Thing

From: Ambassadors For Christ International - John North

Psalm 16:8 "I keep the Lord always before me; with the Lord at my right, I shall never be shaken."

When you are deciding how to balance your time, don’t forget that spending time with God is the most important thing you can do! Do you see this value at work in Jesus’ life? Ministry opportunities and needs were going through the roof as news about Jesus was rapidly spreading. It would seem like the crucial time to work overtime to capitalize on the spiritual hunger and responsiveness of the people. But Jesus “would often slip away to the wilderness and pray.”

It must have driven the disciples crazy when Jesus would just disappear and they would have to come up with something to do with the crowds. But nothing was going to keep Jesus from His first priority in life—His relationship with His Father.

When you learn from Jesus to put your relationship with God first in your life, you will be amazed at how well the rest of your schedule and responsibilities come together and fall into place. You’ll see His hand guiding your steps. 

Our Closest Friend

From: Through The Bible Daily Devotionals

John 15:15-17 "... Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from My Father I have made known to you. You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit–fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in My name. This is My command: Love each other."

There are a number of parallels between God's friendship with Abraham and Jesus' friendship with us. He calls us before we have done anything deserving of His call. He enters into a blood covenant with us. He speaks intimately with us. He does not hide from us what He is about to do. He allows us to intercede for others. He calls for an expression of faith. He makes our life fruitful. 

In the life of Abraham, the friend of God, we can see the covenant relationship with God. We need to get a handle on the superabundant grace expressed in the fact that God would call us friends. Do we honor Him as our closest friend?

God is after fruit that will last in our lives. Our friendship should cause us to act on His instruction. His instruction is to love each other. If we will obey, we will see lasting results from our relationship in Him. 

Let God Be Your Guide

From: New Life Daily Devotions - Steve Arterburn

Psalm 32:8 "I will instruct you and show you the way you should walk. I will counsel you, keeping My eye on you."

The Bible promises that God will guide you if you let Him. Your job, of course, is to let Him. But sometimes, you will be tempted to do otherwise. Sometimes, you’ll be tempted to go along with the crowd; other times, you’ll be tempted to do things your way, not God’s way. When you feel those temptations, resist them.

When you entrust your life to Him completely and without reservation, God will give you the strength to meet any challenge, the courage to face any trial, and the wisdom to live in His righteousness. So, let God be your guide.

Trust God today and seek His guidance. When you do, your next step will be the right one.

Joy Wins

From: Boyd Bailey Ministries

John 16:22 "Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy."

Joy wins when our life aligns around Almighty God’s game plan. Sorrow may reign in the short-term, but long-term joy is victorious. Once joy lodges in the heart of a believer no one can steal it away.

Satan tries to talk us into forgetting God’s faithfulness. Indeed in Christ, we have an infinite supply of joy to share, but in our flesh we can quickly lose our joy. Trust the Lord and be joyful in Jesus...and share it with others.

If external conditions (people, places and things) are necessary to bring us joy, when they are removed our joy goes with them. However, if our joy comes from the internal rest of our soul in our Savior Jesus then our joy is secure, not at any real risk. A heart captured by Christ enjoys deep abiding joy!

Gratitude

From: Boyd Bailey Ministries

Ephesians 5:20 "Give thanks to God always and for everything."

Gratitude to God is one of the secrets to living the Christian life. Glorious gratitude means we never get over what He has done for us, what He is doing for us, and what He will do for us. It is remembering His past, present, and future faithfulness. Glorious gratitude is transformational because it is God-focused. The cares of this world melt like wax under the heat of heavenly appreciation.

Godly gratitude understands what could have happened to you were it not for the grace of God. But, by the Lord’s intervention, He delivered you from attacks by the enemy, hopelessness, and fatal self-destruction. 

He is worthy of praise, gratitude, and adoration. What a great and mighty God we serve. So take a bath with the soap of gratitude every day. Your attitude and actions will become clean and fresh. Gratitude is a magnet for God and people. It makes you pleasant rather than distasteful. Wear it well, and wear it regularly. It is one fashion statement that never goes out of style.