THE GOD WHO SEES ME - A Devotional Prayer Journal

MADE IN HIS IMAGE

2012-01-29T17:53:00.000-08:00

[2]
ADAM AND EVE

Read Genesis 1:26–3:24

Then God said, "Let us make man in our image, in our likeness,”… male and female he created them. Genesis 1:26a, 27b NIV

* * *

God created the heavens and the earth and all the living things that inhabited its boundaries. Then He created the first man in the likeness of Himself and He called him Adam. Adam named all the animals and found none among them that could cure his loneliness.
So God made from Adam's side a woman, and Adam named his wife Eve, because she would become the mother of all the living. (Genesis 3:20) Both husband and wife were fashioned in the image of the triune God – Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

* * *

Dear Father, that little word "us" is our first glimpse of the Trinity, all present when You created the first married couple in Your image – body, soul and spirit. Sadly, those first wonderful days together were overshadowed by sin. Thank You Lord, that You made a way to restore the family resemblance we once had to You. Continue to work in my heart, through Your Holy Spirit, and may that transformation be visibly reflected in my attitude and countenance – that others will see Jesus in me.

* * *

"Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is – his good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12:2 NIV

IN THE BEGINNING

2012-01-19T16:42:00.000-08:00

[1]

Read Genesis 1:1–2:2, John 1:1–4

And God said, "Let there be light," and there was light. Genesis 1:3 NIV

***

      "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made." (John 1:1–3 NKJV)
     We worship a God who brought forth an entire universe just by speaking. He is so powerful, and yet Jesus said, “The very hairs of your head are all numbered.”(Matthew 10:30)
      There is nothing that concerns me that He misses or ignores. This same Lord of the universe ─ Father, Son and Holy Spirit ─ will be with me throughout eternity.

***

Thank You, Lord, that nothing in my life goes unnoticed by You. As I marvel in the matchless beauty of the moon and stars on a cloudless night, how comforting it is to know that You see me.
No matter how hectic life is, as I hurry about from day to day, You are always there to listen and guide my steps – And You will be there when my life on earth is completed and my faith becomes sight. For then I will see the “God who sees me.” Genesis 16:13

***

"You know when I sit and when I rise; You perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; You are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue, You know it completely, O LORD." Psalm 139:2–4 NIV

THE LUKEWARM CHURCH

2012-01-13T13:29:00.000-08:00

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Laodicea

[63]
Read Revelation 3:14-22

"I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth. Revelation 3:15-16 NKJV

* * *

The church at Laodicea was proud and prosperous. Many see a comparison to the churches of today, with fine buildings and multiple programs. Jesus points out their pride saying,
“Because you say, 'I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing' -- and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked -- I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see.” (3:17-18)

The interesting thing in this warning is that it seems to be a true church going in the wrong direction. Jesus said, “As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent.” (3:19)

* * *

Lord, it is so easy for us as believers to become apathetic and satisfied with the status quo. Forgive me of my lukewarm devotion to the ministry of our church. Light a fire in my soul that will not go out no matter what the circumstances – rich or poor. Help me to see others as You see them.

* * *

“Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.” Revelation 3:20 NKJV

AN OPEN DOOR

2012-01-08T07:33:00.000-08:00

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Philadelphia

[62]

Read Revelation 3:7-13

"I know your works. See, I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it; for you have a little strength, have kept My word, and have not denied My name.” Revelation 3:8 NKJV

* * *

These letters to the seven churches describe the actual events at the time of this writing but because of their placement in a prophetic vision, some have viewed them as typical of the church in various stages of history.

If this is a valid secondary interpretation, then the Philadelphia church most likely represents the churches of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries of missionary outreach. God truly has given and still gives an open door for missionary endeavor. How long this will be, we do not know, but the opportunity is there today.

Others also see a composite picture of the church at any time in history. In this view the promise of deliverance is comforting: “Because you have kept My command to persevere, I also will keep you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth. Behold, I am coming quickly!” (3:10-11a)

* * *

Lord, I look forward to Your coming, perhaps in our lifetime. Help us to take advantage of the open door we have today for spreading the good news of salvation. Give me the opportunity to share my faith in You.

* * *

These things says He who is holy, He who is true, "He who has the key of David, He who opens and no one shuts, and shuts and no one opens" Revelation 3:7b NKJV

NEW YEAR'S DAY THOUGHTS

2012-01-01T14:17:00.000-08:00

As we transition from 2011 into January 2012 it seems appropriate that we are coming to the last three of the letters to the churches in the book of Revelation. These seven letters contain both commendation and warnings to the churches past, present and future by our Lord Jesus Christ.

For instance, the church at Ephesus was commended for their discernment of false teaching, but still Jesus said, “I have this against you that you have left your first love.”

The believers at Pergamum were standing up for their faith even unto martyrdom, and yet they were tolerating those among them who were a “stumbling block to Israel” by eating meat sacrificed to idols and committing sexual immorality.

* * *

I am entering this New Year asking God to point out areas where there is more to be done in my spiritual life. I want Him to point out any blind spots that would be a stumbling block to others.

In times of stress, I want a renewal of that first love for Jesus and His children. I am also asking for His blessing on my blogs as they go out to people I will never see on this earth, but who I certainly hope to see in Heaven someday.

* * *

Next month I will begin a journey through the Old Testament looking at the lives of real people who lived long ago and a God who is the same yesterday, today and forever. I will only scratch the surface in each book with this brief and personal focus, so I want to encourage my readers to begin a reading program that will take you much deeper into the teachings of Scripture.

I will continue to post once a week on selected readings from each book with brief commentary, Bible quotes and a prayer of personal application. Readings will be linked to BlueLetterBible.com online for your convenience.

* * *

I especially want to wish a Happy New Year to those of you who have been with me on this journey through the Bible since the beginning of 2008. Once again we will begin at the beginning hoping to glean new insights and encouragement from the Holy Word of God.

Love in Christ,
Charlotte Mathis
January 1, 2012

THE DEAD CHURCH

2011-12-30T14:10:00.000-08:00

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Sardis

[61]

Read Revelation 3:1-6

"I know your works, that you have a name that you are alive, but you are dead. Revelation 3:1b NKJV

* * *

The church in Sardis may have been an active busy church, but spiritually Jesus pronounces them dead – or at least ready to die. He says, “Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die, for I have not found your works perfect before God." (3:2)

This church was not looking for the return of Jesus and though there was a spark of life, it was ready to go out. He warns them, “Therefore if you will not watch, I will come upon you as a thief, and you will not know what hour I will come upon you.” Revelation 3:3b

Like many cold churches today, Sardis had some who were still trusting in Christ. He says of them, “You have a few names even in Sardis who have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with Me in white, for they are worthy.” (3:4)

This reminds me of the parable of the wedding feast where a man tried to enter without the proper wedding garment. This garment is the righteousness which true believers receive when they trust in Christ – sins washed away as white as snow.

* * *

Father, I am anticipating Jesus’ return, hoping that perhaps our generation will be the one that sees the return of Your Son. Thank you that He is the One who makes us worthy to walk with You in white.

* * *

"Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming." Matthew 25:13 NKJV

DISCERNMENT

2011-12-12T08:21:00.000-08:00

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Thyatira
[60]

Read Revelation 2:18-29

"I know your works, love, service, faith, and your patience; and as for your works, the last are more than the first. Nevertheless I have a few things against you... Revelation 2:19-20A NKJV

* * *

The church at Thyatira, much like Pergamum, was influenced by pagan religion and immorality. Like many today, they mixed their Christianity with occult practices. Jesus refers to these practices as the "depths of Satan." (2:24).

Teachers of this corrupt form of Christianity were followers of demons and will be judged along with Satan in the future. When judgment comes He says, “...all the churches shall know that I am He who searches the minds and hearts. And I will give to each one of you according to your works.” (2:23)

There was still a remnant of faithful believers at Thyatira and to them He says, "Now to you I say, and to the rest in Thyatira, as many as do not have this doctrine, who have not known the depths of Satan, as they say, I will put on you no other burden. But hold fast what you have till I come” (2:24-25)

* * *

Lord, these verses remind me how careful we must be about what is taught in our churches. False teaching seems to creep in so easily and true believers need discernment. Keep us in Your Word so that we can recognize counterfeit Christianity by knowing the Truth.

* * *

"And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment, that you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ," Philippians 1:9-10 NKJV

A NEW NAME

2011-12-05T10:54:00.000-08:00

THE COMPROMISING CHURCH
[59]

Read Revelation 2:12-17

“...you hold fast to My name, and did not deny My faith even in the days in which Antipas was My faithful martyr, who was killed among you, where Satan dwells.” Revelation 2:13b NKJV

* * *

These faithful believers in Pergamum were standing up for the faith even unto martyrdom. “But” Jesus said, “I have a few things against you, because you have there those who hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balak to put a stumbling block before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed to idols, and to commit sexual immorality. (Revelation 2:14)

The idolatrous culture around them, including temple prostitution, was a snare to the church. This was such an important matter that Jesus said “Repent, or else I will come to you quickly and will fight against them with the sword of My mouth.” (Revelation 2:16)

What a horrible thought that the Lord Jesus himself would fight against a church. We must not take lightly the instructions for purity in the Christian’s life. It is possible to be right in the main, and yet compromise our values in our personal lives and the teaching of the church.

* * *

Lord, protect our church against the infiltration of false doctrine and immorality. Give us the ‘hidden manna” of Your Word and help us to live consistent lives that are worthy of our “new names” written in Heaven.

* * *

He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. “To him who overcomes I will give some of the hidden manna to eat. And I will give him a white stone, and on the stone a new name written which no one knows except him who receives it.” Revelation 2:17 NKJV

THE PERSECUTED CHURCH

2011-11-26T08:22:00.000-08:00

FAITHFUL UNTO DEATH

[58]

Read Revelation 2:8-11

"And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write, 'these things says the First and the Last, who was dead, and came to life: "I know your works, tribulation, and poverty (but you are rich)..." Revelation 2:8-9a

* * *

The believers in the church at Smyrna were suffering persecution and all their material goods had been confiscated. Jesus tells them that He sees everything that is happening to them and though they are poor, they are actually spiritually rich in hope for the future. (This stands in contrast to the church at Laodicea who were rich in material goods, but spiritually they were poor.)

The worst is yet to come for those in Smyrna, as some of them will be cast into prison even unto death. They will suffer for their faith, but for a limited time. Jesus said, “Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison - that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days... (2:10a)

Though some may have to suffer persecution for following Jesus in this life, God’s Holy Spirit will give us the ability to endure. We have all of eternity to enjoy the rewards of a godly life. Jesus said, “Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.” (2:10b)

* * *

Lord, at this point in our culture we have not experienced real persecution, but there are many throughout the world who are in prison and have even died for their faith in the past few years. Should we ever have to endure this Lord, help us to depend on You. Even in a time of material blessing, keep us faithful unto death.

* * *

"He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. He who overcomes shall not be hurt by the second death." Revelation 2:11 NKJV

YOUR FIRST LOVE

2011-11-20T11:41:00.000-08:00

[57]

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Revelation

Revelation 2:1-2

"To the angel of the church of Ephesus write ..."I know your works, your labor, your patience, and that you cannot bear those who are evil....” Revelation 2:1a, 2a NKJV

* * *

The Ephesian believers were diligent in guarding the true gospel which had been given to them. Jesus commends them, “...You have persevered and have patience, and have labored for My name's sake and have not become weary...” Then John writes the convicting words dictated by Jesus Himself: “Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love.” Revelation 2:4

In their sincere desire to root out false teaching, a sad thing happened - they lost their love for the very people they were ministering to. After awhile perhaps they viewed everyone with suspicion rather than depending on the grace and love of God to be their guide. Jesus sternly warns,

“Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lamp stand from its place -- unless you repent.” (2:5) There would be nothing worse than a once vibrant loving church to lose its light in the place where they lived.

* * *

I can see from this passage that serving without love is futile. We can be oh so busy and oh so right and yet without love we are nothing. Restore to us a right spirit O Lord. Amen.

* * *

"Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal." 1 Corinthians 13:1 NKJV

BEHOLD HE IS COMING

2011-11-13T19:07:00.000-08:00

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Revelation
[56]

Read Revelation 1

To Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood... to Him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. Revelation 1:5b, 6b

* * *

Reading through the book of Revelation, we get a glimpse of the almighty power and glory of God in Jesus Christ. But at the same time we are reminded that this all powerful God loved us and gave His Son to die for our sins. The contrast of Jesus on the cross with Jesus in Heaven is breathtaking.
Though His own people rejected Him at His first coming, they will realize what they did in that final hour. John writes, "Behold, He is coming with clouds, and every eye will see Him, even they who pierced Him. And all the tribes of the earth will mourn because of Him... " (1:7)

Our Savior as portrayed in the gospels, is now seen by John in Heaven as one "like the Son of Man, clothed with a garment down to the feet and girded about the chest with a golden band. His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow, and His eyes like a flame of fire; His feet were like fine brass, as if refined in a furnace, and His voice as the sound of many waters..." (Revelation 1:13-15)

* * *

Lord, I can only imagine what it will be like to stand in your presence. Perhaps I will fall at your feet like John, but then hear your words of comfort: "Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last. I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore.” (1:17b-18a)

* * *

"I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End," says the Lord, "who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty." Revelation 1:8 NKJV

CONTEND FOR THE FAITH

2011-11-06T14:42:00.000-08:00

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Jude

[55]

Read Jude

Beloved... I found it necessary to write to you exhorting you to contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints. Jude 3b NKJV

* * *

Jude, the brother of James and of our Lord Jesus Christ writes a very serious letter to Jewish Christians of his day. He reminds them and us, “But you, beloved, remember the words which were spoken before by the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ: how they told you that there would be mockers in the last time who would walk according to their own ungodly lusts. These are sensual persons, who cause divisions, not having the Spirit." (Jude 17-19)

Jude describes these Mockers in highly descriptive terms as "ungodly men, who turn the grace of our God into lewdness and deny the only Lord God and our Lord Jesus Christ." (Jude 4b) He warns that grave judgment is reserved for those who corrupt the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ for their own gain. “These are grumblers, complainers, walking according to their own lusts; and they mouth great swelling words, flattering people to gain advantage.” (Jude 16)

* * *

Lord I pray that You will protect our churches from the inevitable rise of apostate men and women. Give us discernment to recognize those who would cause divisions and confusion by their false teaching. Help us to become more familiar with the Truth of God's Word so that we can discern error in our midst.

* * *

“But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God..." Jude 20-21a NKJV

LOVE ONE ANOTHER

2011-10-31T08:30:00.000-07:00

[54]

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - I John

Read 1 John 3-4

Beloved, now we are children of God; and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is. 1 John 3:2 NKJV

* * *

As Christians struggle to live for God in a world that is opposed to Jesus Christ, John reminds us that when we see Christ we will be like him. But even now we can see glimpses of hope as the Spirit works in our hearts. He says, “We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love the brethren” (1 John 3:14a)

Along with faith in the name of Jesus should come a unique love for others who are in the family of God. “And this is His commandment: that we should believe on the name of His Son Jesus Christ and love one another, as He gave us commandment.” (1 John 3:23)

* * *

Father, the most amazing thing is that You loved me and gave your Son to die in my place. As John writes, “In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” (1 John 4:10-11) Lord grant me this supernatural love for my fellow believers.

* * *

If someone says, "I love God," and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen. 1 John 4:20 NKJV

WALK IN THE LIGHT

2011-10-24T09:33:00.000-07:00

[53]

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - 1 John

Read 1 John 1 -2

But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin. 1 John 1:7 NKJV

* * *

John the apostle who walked and talked with Jesus Christ encourages Christians to walk in love toward each other, confessing their sins and abiding in Christ. Even though these are believers, they must realize the reality of sin and spiritual warfare in their lives.

John explains, “If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:8-9)

Where does this temptation to sin come from? It does not come from God, but from within ourselves “For all that is in the world -- the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life -- is not of the Father but is of the world. And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever.” (1 John 2:16-17)

* * *

Lord, I am so grateful that you made a way for us to deal with sin in our lives. Thank you for your faithfulness to cleanse me from all unrighteousness and present me before the Father completely forgiven because of the cross. Thank you that ...this is the promise that He has promised us -- eternal life. (1 John 2:25)

* * *

"And now, little children, abide in Him, that when He appears, we may have confidence and not be ashamed before Him at His coming." 1 John 2:28 NKJV

SCOFFERS WILL COME

2011-10-17T14:13:00.000-07:00

[52]

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Peter

Read 2 Peter 2-3

"But there were also false prophets among the people, even as there will be false teachers among you..." 2 Peter 2:1a NKJV

* * *

Peter writes, “Beloved, I now write to you this second epistle...that you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets,...knowing this first: that scoffers will come in the last days, walking according to their own lusts, (2 Peter 3:1a,2a,3)
These false teachers will question everything from the Genesis account of creation to the promised Second Coming of Christ. They will refute the gospel “even denying the Lord who bought them...And many will follow their destructive ways... “(2:1b-2a)

Furthermore, they will ridicule believers saying, "Where is the promise of His coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of creation." (3:4)

* * *

Lord, I thank you for the wonderful promise that “The Lord is not slack concerning His promise ... but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.” (3:9) May we be found faithful until the day You take us home..

* * *

“You therefore, beloved, since you know this beforehand, beware lest you also fall from your own steadfastness, being led away with the error of the wicked; but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” 2 Peter 3:17-18 NKJV

ADD TO YOUR FAITH . . . .

2011-10-10T09:57:00.000-07:00

[51]

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Peter

Read 2 Peter 1

His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us ... 2 Peter 1:3 NKJV

* * *

Peter writes this second letter to remind believers of all they have received in Christ. They have been saved by faith in Him and have been given “...exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature...” (1:4)

Now it is time, he says, to build on that faith in their relationships. He instructs them to “add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love. " (1:5b-7)

This growth in grace and knowledge is not optional for the believer. “For he who lacks these things is shortsighted, even to blindness, and has forgotten that he was cleansed from his old sins.” 2 Peter 1:9 NKJV

* * *

Lord, I thank you that as believers we can expect to see growth in our lives through the power of the Holy Spirit. Help us to be diligent in examining these areas of self control and brotherly kindness. When things are difficult in our homes, communities or churches, give us perseverance and the ability to endure. Most of all give us kindness and love.

* * *

Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure, for if you do these things you will never stumble; 2 Peter 1:10 NKJV

FERVENT LOVE

2011-09-28T13:10:00.000-07:00

[50]

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Peter

Read 1 Peter 4 - 5

... Be serious and watchful in your prayers, and above all things have fervent love for one another, for "love will cover a multitude of sins." 1 Peter 4:7b-8 NKJV

* * *

Peter continues to encourage Christians to grow in love for the brethren. He urges us to pay close attention to relationships as husbands and wives and believers in the church. He writes, “As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God...If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies...” (4:10, 11b)

He calls for humility in the sight of God and men, trusting that He will supply our needs. He exhorts us to “humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:6-7

* * *

Lord, I want to cast my cares upon you today. Help me to realize that I am not alone but can minister to others with the “ability which God supplies.” Help me to reflect Your love in all I do, especially in my own family. Help me to respond to attacks by the enemy with steadfast faith.

* * *

Be sober; be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world. 1 Peter 5:8-9 NKJV

CALLED TO BLESSING

2011-09-23T19:48:00.000-07:00

[49]

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Peter

Read 1 Peter 2 - 3

"Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking, as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby." 1 Peter 2:1-2 NKJV

* * *

To the scattered and persecuted churches, Peter narrows his message down to the simplicity of faith: Set aside the issues that divide you and focus on the “pure milk” of the Word, growing in your faith and your Christian relationships. In regard to those outside the church, “...always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear.” (1 Peter 3:15b)

Our love for one another in the churches will be the greatest witness of the sincerity of our faith. Peter urges, “Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous; not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing." 1 Peter 3:8-9

* * *

Lord, I pray that I will be a blessing to my fellow believers, focusing on our common faith rather than the issues that would divide us. Help me to be ready to give an answer for the hope that is in Jesus Christ to anyone who asks.

* * *

"He who would love life and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips from speaking deceit. Let him turn away from evil and do good; Let him seek peace and pursue it.”

1 Peter 3:10-11 NKJV (quote from Psalm 34:12-14)

PATIENCE IN DIFFICULT TIMES

2011-09-15T10:55:00.000-07:00

[48]

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - James

Read James 5

Come now, you rich, weep and howl for your miseries that are coming upon you! Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are moth-eaten. Your gold and silver are corroded . . . You have heaped up treasure in the last days. You have lived on the earth in pleasure and luxury . . . James 5:1-3,5a NKJV

* * *

James, in writing to the believers of his day, was also speaking of the final days preceding the Lord’s return. These passages are becoming more relevant every day as we watch the dismantling of financial institutions and hear of the fraud and greed which has caused millions of people to lose their homes and businesses.

When the pressures of life come along for us, we also are tempted to grumble against each other. We need encouragement to be patient and look up, because our Lord is returning. James reminds us, “Do not grumble against one another, brethren, lest you be condemned. Behold, the Judge is standing at the door!” (James 5:9)

* * *

Lord, these are frightening times. Help us to trust in You no matter what difficulties lay ahead. Give us the patience to fellowship in unity with other believers as James said, “Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another. . . The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.” (James 5:16)

* * *

Therefore be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, waiting patiently for it until it receives the early and latter rain. James 5:7 NKJV

PRIDE VS HUMILITY

2011-09-08T06:48:00.000-07:00

[47]

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - James

Read James 4

"God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble." Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. James 4:6b-8a NKJV

* * *

James continues to address the conflicts among Christians and the temptation to live in a materialistic worldly manner. He says, “Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Whoever therefore wants to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God.” (4:4)

The source of the infighting according to James, was covetousness and arrogance. “Yet you do not have because you do not ask. You ask and do not receive, because you ask amiss, that you may spend it on your pleasures.”(4:2b-3)

In regard to arrogance he says, “Come now, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, spend a year there, buy and sell, and make a profit"; whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away. ( 4:13-14)

* * *

Lord, this passage speaks to my heart. We spend so much mental energy just worrying about what tomorrow will bring. Help us to keep our eyes on You and not forget to ask for the provision of our needs - and for wisdom to use your gifts rightly.

* * *

...Instead you ought to say,"If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that." But now you boast in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil. Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin. James 4:15-17 NKJV

TAMING THE TONGUE

2011-08-30T10:26:00.000-07:00

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - James

Read James 3

But no man can tame the tongue. It is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison. With it we bless our God and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in the similitude of God James 3:8-9 NKJV

* * *

James had heard reports that these Christians were arguing among themselves. While some were living in poverty, others were flaunting their wealth. James calls for humility because all are rich in Jesus Christ. He speaks to the sin of envy saying,
“Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom. But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth. This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, (and) demonic.” (James 3:13-15)

* * *

Lord, I know how easy it is to lose control of our tongues. Whether it be in anger or in gossip, the damage our words can do is unspeakable. Help me to think before I speak and especially to refrain from gossip about someone who isn’t present. Forgive me for the times I have done this.

* * *

Where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there. But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy. James 3:16-17 NKJV

THE SOURCE OF WISDOM

2011-08-24T09:51:00.000-07:00

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - James

Read James 1

If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But let him ask in faith, nothing doubting... James 1:5-6a NKJV

* * *

James is writing to persecuted Hebrew Christians scattered into neighboring gentile cities. They faced both financial hardship and temptation as they struggled to live the Christian life in an immoral culture. James tells them to ask of God, who is willing to grant wisdom along with all good and perfect spiritual gifts.

Neither persecution nor temptation originates with God. Persecution comes from without, but temptation comes from the heart. James writes, “Let no one say when he is tempted, "I am tempted by God"; for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone. But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. James 1:13-14

While Paul had to deal with Jewish leaders who insisted that Christians keep the Old Testament law, James was dealing with the permissiveness which assumes that it doesn’t matter how we live. The book of James is very timely for the issues that Christians face today.

* * *

Lord, I pray that you will grant the stamina and wisdom we need to glorify You in an ungodly culture. Purify our hearts with the washing of Your precious Word, for we know that every good and perfect gift comes from You.

* * *

“My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing." James 1:2-4

THE SACRIFICE OF PRAISE

2011-08-17T04:54:00.000-07:00

Read Hebrews 13

Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, "I will never leave you nor forsake you." Hebrews 13:5 NKJV

* * *

Although I had memorized this verse years ago, I did not understand the context until I studied the entire letter to the Hebrews. Earlier he writes, “... for you had compassion on me in my chains, and joyfully accepted the plundering of your goods, knowing that you have a better and an enduring possession for yourselves in heaven.” (10:34-36)
The cost of declaring faith in Christ was loss of employment and confiscation of property. Many accepted it joyfully but some were tempted to fall away. He encourages them to endure, “For here we have no continuing city, but we seek the one to come. Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name." (Hebrews 13:14-15)

* * *

Lord, the apostles sang praises in prison; Your people endured persecution and even martyrdom for declaring faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. Help us to live joyfully even when circumstances are difficult, offering the sacrifice of praise to Your name as we live out Your plan for our lives.

* * *

Now may the God of peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead ,...make you complete in every good work to do His will, working in you what is well pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen. Hebrews 13:20a-21 NKJV

THE EVIDENCE OF FAITH

2011-08-10T11:34:00.000-07:00

[42]

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Hebrews

Read Hebrews 11-12

"Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen...By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible." Hebrews 11:1, 3 NKJV

* * *

This is the inspiration section of Hebrews. Some call it the “Hall of Faith.” These Old Testament believers didn’t have the clear picture of redemption that we have in the completed Scriptures. They saw it by faith from afar off, believing in God’s promise of a Messiah. They obeyed what God told them to do, even when they didn’t fully understand. For them, and for us, the requirement for pleasing God was believing Him. For "...without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him." (11:6)

* * *

Lord, reading about these heroes of the faith, we are put to shame. Help us to "lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith..." Amen. Hebrews 12:1b-2a

* * *

"These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off were assured of them, embraced them and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth....But now they desire a better, that is, a heavenly country. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for He has prepared a city for them." Hebrews 11:13, 16 NKJV

KEEP THE FAITH

2011-08-03T09:46:00.000-07:00

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Hebrews

[41]

Read Hebrews 10: 1-25

Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. Hebrews 10:22 NKJV

* * *

In the midst of persecution and trials the Hebrew believers were struggling to keep the faith. This encouraging letter reminds them that the holiest place of the temple has been opened by the blood of Jesus Christ. Now they can draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith to fellowship with God Himself. Don’t give up, but rather, “let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.” (10:22-23)

* * *

Perhaps these Christians found themselves irritated with their fellow believers in the presence of all the outside pressure. Maybe they were tempted just like we are, to just drop out for awhile and blend in with the culture. Why put ourselves with a group of people who sometimes don’t even get along?

* * *

Help us Lord, to remain faithful to you and to our fellow believers. Give us the motivation to follow this admonition in Hebrews:

* * *

And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching. Hebrews 10:24-25

A PERFECT MEDIATOR

2011-07-28T07:14:00.000-07:00

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Hebrews
[40]

Read Hebrews 7 – 8
...He is also able to save to the uttermost those who come to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them. Hebrews 7:25 NKJV

* * *

      These Hebrew Christians were familiar with the sacrificial system and the priesthood. They were also aware that their priests were sinful human servants who had to offer a sacrifice for their own sins before they could approach God for the sins of the people. They were appointed as imperfect mediators between God and men.
      Jesus in contrast, is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and has become higher than the heavens; who does not need daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifices, first for His own sins and then for the people's, for this He did once for all when He offered up Himself. (7:26a-27)
      As the ultimate, sinless sacrifice, Jesus became the perfect mediator for all who would believe in Him. On the basis of the cross of Jesus Christ, our sin debt is settled “once for all.” We are sealed with the Holy Spirit unto everlasting life, and when we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9)

* * *

Lord, how can I express my thankfulness to You for being available every day to intercede for me. Help me to live for You, for I am no longer my own, I have been bought at a price. Help me to glorify You in everything I do.

* * *

For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's. 1 Corinthians 6:20 NKJV

FAITH AND PATIENCE

2011-07-20T08:27:00.000-07:00

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Hebrews

[39]

Read Hebrews 5 - 6

For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of God; and you have come to need milk and not solid food. Hebrews 5:12 NKJV

* * *

In the midst of persecution both physical and spiritual, these Hebrew believers needed encouragement. Some doubted their salvation, perhaps because of the areas where they felt so weak. This letter is to assure them that they have a high priest in Jesus Christ who already paid the price for their sins.
Those who continually go back to the beginning to renew their salvation “crucify again for themselves the Son of God, and put Him to an open shame.” Hebrews 6:6 NKJV

Instead, they (and we) must press on in patience toward spiritual maturity. “But, beloved, we are confident of better things concerning you, yes, things that accompany salvation, though we speak in this manner.”(6:9) We should not be discouraged because “God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name, in that you have ministered to the saints, and do minister.” (6:10)

* * *

Lord, I pray that you will help me and the members of my family and church as we grow toward maturity in the things that matter. Help our spirit of apathy when things become difficult and keep us true to Your Word. Thank you for the gift of salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

* * *

And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end, that you do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises. Hebrews 6:11-12

DISCERNER OF THE HEART

2011-07-13T08:10:00.000-07:00

[38]

Read Hebrews 3 - 4
...exhort one another daily, while it is called "Today," lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. Hebrews 3:13 NKJV

Writing to Jewish Christians, the author of Hebrews reminds them of the penalty of unbelief. The children of Israel wandered in the wilderness for 40 years because they did not believe God. “For indeed the gospel was preached to us as well as to them; but the word which they heard did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in those who heard it. For we who have believed do enter that rest. (4:2-3a)
The rest that comes to the children of God in our day is through faith in the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ. In our struggle against sin, He is the one who gives us rest. For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:15-16

* * *

Lord, I come to you today bowing before your throne to find grace to help in my time of need. I pray for discernment that comes through your indwelling Holy Spirit. Examine my heart and thoughts and show me the way you have prepared for me and my family. Thank you that I can enter your presence with boldness because of the intercession of Your Son.

* * *

For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a Discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Hebrews 4:12 NKJV

HE BECAME A MAN

2011-07-08T12:55:00.001-07:00

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Hebrews

[37]

Read Hebrews 1 -2

In the past God spoke to our forefathers through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom he made the universe. Hebrews 1:1-2 NIV

* * *

The book of Hebrews begins by introducing Jesus, the Son of God, and Creator of the universe - the One who actually knows what happened because He was there when it all began. But Jesus was not only there at the beginning, He remains as the power who holds it all together. “God’s Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. "(1:3a)

There is no other power in the Heavens or on earth superior to Him. The author of Hebrews writes, “But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels, now crowned with glory and honor..." (2:9a)

Jesus voluntarily gave up His exalted position to identify with us and pay the ultimate price for our sin. so that by his death he might destroy him who holds the power of death - that is, the devil - and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death. (2:14b-15)

* * *

Thank you Lord that you paid the ultimate price for our sin and that we can trust You as the One who sustains all things. Because of your sacrifice on the cross, the end of life here is just the beginning and death has lost its sting. Amen.

* * *

Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted. Hebrews 2:18 NIV

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Titus

2011-07-02T11:49:00.000-07:00

[35]
READY FOR EVERY GOOD WORK

Read Titus 2 and 3
Those who have believed in God should be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable to men. Titus 3:8b NKJV

* * *

Paul’s letter to Titus instructs him to appoint godly men as elders of the church. These men will have a difficult job ahead of them because there are already disputes among the people. “Remind them,” he writes, “to be subject to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing all humility to all men. (Titus 3:1-2)

The quest for a gentle peaceable life should begin at home, so he tells Titus to gently instruct the older believers to live consistent Christian lives as examples for the young people. For instance, the older women were to “admonish the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, to be discreet, chaste, homemakers, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be blasphemed.” (Titus 2:4-5)

* * *

Lord, help us to make every effort to be at peace with those in the church and without. May our behavior reflect the graciousness of your mercy toward us. When our hearts are troubled, give us peace and wisdom to know how to respond.

* * *

For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age. Titus 2:11-12 NKJV

DIFFICULT TIMES

2011-06-25T18:25:00.000-07:00

[34]
LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Timothy

Read 2 Timothy 3-4

But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come 2 Timothy 3:1 NKJV

* * *

Paul tells Timothy that his own ministry is about to come to a close. Inspired by the Holy Spirit, he gives us some insight into what will happen prior to our Lord’s return: “For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good..., lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. " (3:2-5)
In other words, the world will become an increasingly perilous place in the last days. In the face of this, what is Paul’s challenge? "Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching." (2 Timothy 4:2) Even though people will not want to hear the truth, Timothy is to preach it anyway.

* * *

Lord, forgive me when I have been hesitant to answer those who deny the truth of Your Word. Give me courage to speak rather than remain silent when the name of Jesus is blasphemed. Grant me also the wisdom to know when I should remain silent and simply live the message.

* * *

All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 NKJV

GENTLE PATIENT TEACHING

2011-06-19T13:20:00.000-07:00

[33]
LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Timothy

Read 2 Timothy 1-2

For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7 NKJV

* * *

When Timothy took on the pastorate of the church at Ephesus there were already false teachers at work. Paul speaks of two men in particular “who have strayed concerning the truth, saying that the resurrection is already past; and they overthrow the faith of some.” (2:18) But he encourages Timothy to stand fast to what he has been taught, in spite of the fact that some have followed these men. Paul continues, “Nevertheless the solid foundation of God stands, having this seal: "The Lord knows those who are His...” (2:19)

Paul urges Timothy to join him in willingness to suffer for the cause of Christ and to “Flee also youthful lusts; and pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.” (2:22)
Citing his own example he says, “For this reason I also suffer these things; nevertheless I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day."(1:12)

* * *

Lord, it is such a comfort that You know those who are yours. Sometimes it is necessary to stand alone in regard to the truth of Scripture. Help me to be gentle in presenting the gospel and the truth of the resurrection.

* * *

And a servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient, in humility correcting those who are in opposition, if God perhaps will grant them repentance, so that they may know the truth. 2 Timothy 2:24-25 NKJV

RICH IN GOOD WORKS

2011-06-13T07:22:00.000-07:00

[32]

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Timothy
Read 1 Timothy 4-6

For to this end we both labor and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of those who believe. 1 Timothy 4:10-11 NKJV

* * *

Timothy had a very difficult job ahead of him. He was charged with the task of correcting false teaching. He had to do this in a way that would be accepted by those who were older than he in age, though perhaps not in the faith. He had been trained by his godly mother and grandmother and also by Paul himself to “be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished in the words of faith...” (4:6a)

Paul writes, “Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity.” (4:12)

Concerning Timothy’s preparation, the apostle urges, “Meditate on these things; give yourself entirely to them, that your progress may be evident to all. Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine”, (4:13-15) thus making it clear that he is not only to teach right doctrine but also to show his faith by his works.

Paul warns about greed saying, “The love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.” (6:10-11)

* * *

Lord, like Timothy, I want my life to be an example of what I believe. Today I pray for the enabling power of Your Holy Spirit in my life.

* * *

But you, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness. 1 Timothy 6:11 NKJV

A QUIET AND PEACEFUL LIFE

2011-06-06T20:23:00.000-07:00

[31]

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Timothy

Read 1 Timothy 1-2

This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief. 1 Timothy 1:15

* * *

     Timothy had been a disciple and traveling partner of the apostle Paul. Now he is the pastor of the church at Ephesus. Paul begins this letter to him by expressing his thankfulness for God’s mercy in his own life.
     He refers to himself as the “chief of sinners” whom Jesus came to save, because he was at one time a persecutor of Christians. “However,” he writes, “for this reason I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might show all longsuffering, as a pattern to those who are going to believe on Him for everlasting life.” (1 Timothy 1:16)
     In relationship to unbelievers, Paul writes, “I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.”   (1 Timothy 2:1-2)

* * *

Lord, I pray for our President and for all in his administration that they will acknowledge your authority and that we may lead godly and reverent lives among our neighbors. Thank you for showing mercy to me, a sinner.

* * *

“For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself a ransom for all...” 1 Timothy 2:3-6 NKJV

STAND FAST

2011-05-31T16:15:00.000-07:00

[30]

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Thessalonians

Read 2 Thessalonians 1-3

Therefore, brethren, stand fast and hold the traditions which you were taught, whether by word or our epistle. 2 Thessalonians 2:15 NKJV

* * *

Paul writes this letter to correct false teaching about the Lord’s return. “Now, brethren,” he writes, “concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering together to Him, we ask you, not to be soon shaken in mind or troubled, either by spirit or by word or by letter, as if from us, as though the day of Christ had come. (2 Thessalonians 2:1-2)

Paul goes on to explain the events that will happen prior to the Lord’s return to earth. He tells them of the coming evil world leader who will oppose and exalt himself above all that is called God or that is worshiped, so that he sits as God in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God.” (2 Thessalonians 2:4)

Even though this man of sin will not be revealed until after the “gathering together” of believers, (2:7-8) the spirit of antichrist was and is already working in the world. Paul reminds them and us that “the Lord is faithful, who will establish you and guard you from the evil one.” (3:3)

* * *

Lord, it is so evident in our day that the spirit of antichrist is at work. Help us to keep our eyes on You and not be discouraged as Your coming draws closer. Above all, help us not to grow weary in serving you and others in Christian love.

* * *

"...But as for you, brethren, do not grow weary in doing good. " 2 Thessalonians 3:13 NKJV

IN VIEW OF HIS COMING

2011-05-19T07:03:00.000-07:00

[29]

Read 1 Thessalonians 4-5

God did not call us to be impure, but to live a holy life. Therefore, he who rejects this instruction does not reject man but God, who gives you his Holy Spirit. 1 Thessalonians 4:7-8 NIV

* * *

     Paul includes some very practical instructions in this letter on how to live the Christian life. Very clearly he says, "it is God's will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality." (4:3) He says that when someone wrongs his brother in this way, he is really sinning against God and God will hold him accountable.
     In regard to those who would tend to be lazy or obnoxious toward outsiders he says, “Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands,...so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody.” (4:11-12)
     Paul reminds them and us that we are in a spiritual battle and will be until the Lord returns. The time of Christ’s return is not as important as being ever ready and expectant. He writes, “For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him." (5:9-10)

* * *

Lord, I pray that I will live my life in a way to win the respect of my friends and neighbors. I know we are surrounded by principalities and powers that would like to see us fail. But Lord, Your Holy Spirit within me is enough and today I am asking for Your guidance and strength.

* * *

"May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it." 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 NIV

OUR GLORY AND JOY

2011-05-11T09:15:00.000-07:00

[28]

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Thessalonians

Read 1 Thessalonians 1 - 3

And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is at work in you who believe. 1 Thessalonians 2:13 NIV

* * *

Paul began his letter to the church at Thessalonica by saying, “You became imitators of us and of the Lord. In spite of severe suffering, you welcomed the message with the joy given by the Holy Spirit. And so you became a model to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia.” (1:6-7)

Paul was a model for them and they became a model for other churches. He commended the testimony of these faithful believers by saying, “For what is our hope, our joy, or the crown in which we will glory in the presence of our Lord Jesus when he comes? Is it not you? Indeed, you are our glory and joy. (2:19-20)

The Bible tells us that we will receive rewards when we get to Heaven and stand in the presence of our Lord. What will those rewards be? I do not know for sure, but I know that it will include the joy of seeing people there – those we have influenced for eternity.

* * *

Lord, I pray that my life will be a light to those around me. Give me a joyful, thankful heart for all of the blessings you have given me and my family. Let us be a model to other believers in faith and obedience, so that they will be our glory and joy in Heaven.

* * *

May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else, just as ours does for you. 1 Thessalonians 3:12 NIV

THE NEW SELF

2011-05-04T18:57:00.000-07:00

[27]
LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - COLOSSIANS

Read Colossians 3

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

* * *

After writing that the Colossians should avoid meaningless religious activities and rules, Paul goes on to show how the life hidden in Christ will look. The spiritual changes that take place in a believer’s behavior will be real and practical.

He writes, “You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived. But now you must rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips."
"Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator." (3:7-10)

It is human nature to either err in the making of endless rules or to continue to live in a worldly life with no change in behavior. Abiding in the Spirit of Christ will inevitably bring forth fruit, especially in our relationships with other people.

* * *

Lord, whenever I begin to move away toward worldly or legalistic attitudes, renew my heart to reflect my new self which is hidden in You.

* * *

And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Colossians 3:17 NIV

MAN MADE RELIGION

2011-04-29T09:10:00.000-07:00

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - COLOSSIANS

Read Colossians 2

Now this I say lest anyone should deceive you with persuasive words. For though I am absent in the flesh, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good order and the steadfastness of your faith in Christ. Colossians 2:4-5 NKJV

* * *

This newly formed church worshiped in a city with a mixed culture of pagan religion and strict Judaism. The Jews insisted on keeping the traditions of the law while pagan philosophers called for extreme neglect of the body through self imposed religion and worship of angels.
Paul warns the Colossian church, “Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ. For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily; and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power.” (2:8-10)

* * *

Lord, I praise You that we are complete in You. I pray that as I have "received Christ Jesus the Lord, so (I will) walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as (I) have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving." (2:6-7) Thank You Lord, for the free gift of Your salvation.

* * *

"And you, being dead in your trespasses...He has made alive together with Him...having wiped out the handwriting of requirements that was against us, which was contrary to us. And He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross." Colossians 2:13-14 NKJV

OUR BLESSED HOPE

2011-04-24T16:28:00.000-07:00

“Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with Him, knowing that Christ, having been raised from the dead, dies no more. Death no longer has dominion over Him. For the death that He died, He died to sin once for all; but the life that He lives, He lives to God. Likewise you also, reckon yourselves to be dead indeed to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 6:8-11 NKJV

* * *

This year Passover came late, giving us more time to anticipate Easter Sunday. Everything about this time of year speaks of resurrection, as the leaves appear on trees and flowers begin to bloom. Likewise, those of us who follow Jesus in true belief look forward to new life when we leave this earth to be with Him. This is the hope of the resurrection. Paul assures us as believers,

“I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus.” 1Thess. 4:13-14 NKJV

* * *

Sometimes in the winter everything looks dead and brown. Some plants only last for a season, but for those with life in their roots, growth springs forth again. That life in us was made possible through the resurrection.

Dear Lord, we praise You for the eternal hope we have because Jesus conquered death. Perhaps we will be among those who do not see death, but instead are caught up in the air to ever be with our Lord. Even so, come Lord Jesus. Amen.

* * *

“For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will by no means precede those who are asleep. For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord. Therefore comfort one another with these words.” 1Thess. 4:15-17 NKJV

WHEN YOU SEE ALL THESE THINGS. . .

2011-03-19T14:48:00.000-07:00

Matt 24:3-8, 14, 32-35 NKJV

     Now as He sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to Him privately, saying,"Tell us, when will these things be? And what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?"

     And Jesus answered and said to them: "Take heed that no one deceives you. For many will come in My name, saying, 'I am the Christ,' and will deceive many. And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars.
     See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of sorrows….”

     “….And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come.”

     "Now learn this parable from the fig tree: When its branch has already become tender and puts forth leaves, you know that summer is near. So you also, when you see all these things, know that it is near -- at the doors!
     Assuredly, I say to you, this generation will by no means pass away till all these things take place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.”

SPIRITUAL UNDERSTANDING

2011-03-17T10:09:00.000-07:00

[25]

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Colossians

Read Colossians 1

“We give thanks to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you, since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of your love for all the saints;” Colossians 1:3-4 NKJV

* * *

The apostle Paul is writing to the Colossian church expressing his thankfulness for the love they are showing to other believers. This church, Paul declares, “is bringing forth fruit, as it is also among you since the day you heard and knew the grace of God in truth.” (1:6)
Now he urges them to go on to even greater spiritual growth in the things of Christ: “ For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding... (1:9)

* * *

There is nothing more exciting than to watch the enthusiasm of new believers and their desire to grow in love and acts of service. They must also grow in the knowledge of God’s Word so that they will understand His will for their lives.

* * *

Lord, I pray that my love for you and other Christians will not grow cold. I accept Paul’s prayer as my own; that I would “walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering with joy.” (1:10-11)

* * *

Christ in you, the hope of glory. Him we preach, warning every man and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus. Colossians 1:27b-28 NKJV

CURE FOR ANXIETY

2011-03-11T07:21:00.000-08:00

[24]
LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Philippians

Read Philippians 4

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Philippians 4:6 NIV

* * *

In this chapter, Paul is encouraging two women of the church to “agree with each other in the Lord.” He asks the rest of the church to help them, because they have been helpful co-workers in the past. This church, more than any others, was faithful to support Paul when he was in Thessalonica. He writes, “You sent me aid again and again when I was in need.” Philippians 4:16 NIV

Paul encourages the Philippians and us to face life and all of its stresses with a spirit of rejoicing and thanksgiving. If we do this he says, “... the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (4:7) It is natural to become disgruntled and easily offended when we face difficulties. Anger and frustration can turn into fear and anxiety if we don’t take it to the Lord in prayer.

* * *

Lord, help me to be willing to stop and pray when I am anxious or fearful. I know that You are always aware of what is happening and you have a purpose in it all. Help me to be an encouragement to others who may be experiencing a difficult time, especially fellow believers.

* * *

Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy -- meditate on these things. Philippians 4:8 NKJV

THE GOAL OF LIFE

2011-03-05T08:45:00.000-08:00

[23]

LETTERS TO THE CHRCHES - Philippians

Read Philippians 3 "Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me." Philippians 3:12 NIV

* * *

In this portion of the letter, Paul speaks of the credentials he had as a Pharisee before he was converted. He was a zealous persecutor of Christians in the name of Judaism. His self righteousness and diligence about keeping the law made him proud. But when Paul discovered who Jesus was, his self righteousness became his shame.

Now he describes himself as “not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ-the righteousness that comes from God and is by faith.” (3:9)
The goal is now to become more and more like Jesus. He writes, “Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." (3:13-14)

* * *

Lord, I praise you that You accept me through the righteousness of Your Son. Like Paul, I need to forget what is behind and press forward for the goal of pleasing You today, tomorrow, and for the rest of my life.

* * *

"But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ." Philippians 3:7-8 NIV

ATTITUDE

2011-02-27T13:04:00.000-08:00

[22]

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Philippians

Read Philippians 2

Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Philippians 2:5 NIV

* * *

Paul continues his words of exhortation for unity in the church at Philippi. These new believers have trusted in Christ for their salvation and are growing in faith. He reminds them that they don’t have to do it in their own strength: “for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose. Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life.” (13-16)

* * *

Lord, I praise You for the gift of Your Spirit to help me to will and act according to Your purpose. Forgive me when I complain or argue, and give me the encouraging, uplifting words of life that will shine like stars in the darkness.

* * *

" If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose." Philippians 2:1-2 NIV

TO LIVE IS CHRIST

2011-02-21T07:31:00.000-08:00

[21]
LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Philippians

Read Philippians 1

I always pray with joy… being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. Philippians 1:4b, 6 NIV

* * *

Paul begins his letter to the church at Philippi with a word of confidence in their growing maturity. He knows that they will face persecution and struggles from without and within. He warns, “Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then...I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel.”(1:27)

He tells them that the hardships he has suffered, including his imprisonment, have served to further the spreading of the gospel. Though his very life has been threatened he says, “I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. (1:20-21)

* * *

Lord, You are the One who will accomplish Your purpose in our lives. We are simply vessels in Your hands, being molded for the master’s use. Help me to be confident and willing to place my future in Your hands, not worrying, but trusting in You to use me for Your glory.

* * *

“And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more, ... that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ-to the glory and praise of God. Philippians 1:9-11 NIV

BE STRONG IN THE LORD

2011-02-13T15:17:00.000-08:00

[20]

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Ephesians

Read Ephesians 6

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. Ephesians 6:10-11 NIV

* * *

Paul concludes his letter by reminding them that it is no small adversary that they face. Satan then as now, wages war against Christ and His Church. He tells them and us to be prepared “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” (6:12)

Our preparation will be in knowing God’s Word and putting it into practice in our lives. "Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace." (6:14-15)

* * *

Lord, I know that we are no match for our enemy, the Devil. But I also know that You are greater than anything He can throw at us in this life. Help me to be diligent in preparing my soul through the reading of Your Word. Give me the gift of faith, as You have promised, to always trust and obey.

* * *

"In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God." Ephesians 6:16-17 NIV

WALK IN LOVE

2011-02-07T10:10:00.000-08:00

[19]

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Ephesians

Read Ephesians 5

Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. Ephesians 5:1-2 NIV

* * *

In this letter, Paul encourages the members of the Ephesian church to “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” (4:32)
He goes on to warn of the false teachers who were saying that it doesn’t matter how we live now that we are Christians. He urges them, “for you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light, (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord. Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.” (5:8-11)

“Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs,” he writes, “Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (5:19-20)

* * *

Lord, I am so thankful for Your kindness and compassion towards us. Help me to forgive others just as I have been forgiven. Help us to be faithful today to carry the light of your gospel to those who do not know you and encouragement in God's Word to those who do.

* * *

Be very careful, then, how you live-not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Ephesians 5:15-16 NIV

GROW UP INTO HIM

2011-01-31T19:18:00.000-08:00

[18]

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Ephesians

Read Ephesians 4

"...Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching... Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ." Ephesians 4:14-15 NIV

* * *

In this passage, Paul is reminding the Ephesian Christians of the primary purpose of the local church. Each member of the body of Christ has been given spiritual gifts or talents to be used for a specific reason – the edifying and building up of believers.

This was and is an ongoing process where we grow in our faith "and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ" (4:13b) and it is not something we do by ourselves, but in fellowship with other believers. Each person has something unique to contribute "to the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament," (which) "grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work." (4:1)

* * *

Lord, I pray that you will show each one of us what part we are to play in your plan for our church. Help me to use the talents you have given me for the purpose of building up other believers in their faith. I pray also for the unity of our local church so that we can work together to send forth the gospel and disciple new believers onto maturity.

* * *

"Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." Ephesians 4:2-3 NIV

CHOSEN IN HIM

2011-01-24T08:40:00.000-08:00

[17]

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Ephesians

Read Ephesians 1–3

…He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love… to the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved. Ephesians 1:4, 6 NKJV

* * *

     Paul in writing to the believers in Ephesus reminds them of the wonderful gift of the gospel. “But now in Christ Jesus,” he says, “you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ” (2:13)
     In the fullness of time, God carried out His plan that the Gentiles would be included in His church. For both Jews and Gentiles salvation came by the grace of God as a free gift.
    " For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them." (2:8-10)

* * *

Lord, I will be eternally thankful that You offered salvation to all who would believe. I am grateful that I did not have to earn it by good works. I am also thankful that you had good works planned for me before I even knew You. Help me as I share the good news of Christ’s love with all who will be willing to receive it.

* * *

“...that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height -- to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Eph 3:17b-19 NKJV

THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT

2011-01-18T11:38:00.000-08:00

[16]

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Galations

Read Galatians 5─6

For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. Galatians 5:13 NKJV

* * *

There were those in the Galatian church who insisted that Gentile believers must become Jews and keep the ceremonial laws. Paul writes, “I marvel that you are turning away so soon from Him who called you in the grace of Christ, to a different gospel, which is not another; but there are some who trouble you and want to pervert the gospel of Christ.” (Galatians 1:6-7)
He then goes on to explain the role of the law in the lives of New Testament believers: “...the law was our tutor to bring us to Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But after faith has come, we are no longer under a tutor.” (Galatians 3:24-25) They were to defend the true gospel in a spirit of love; For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Galatians 5:14

* * *

Lord, when I run into Christians who are influenced by false teaching, help me to be patient and kind, exhibiting the fruit of the Spirit in my life and attitude. Give me the wisdom to stand fast and defend the gospel in a way that will glorify You.

* * *

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Galatians 5:22-23a NKJV

JARS OF CLAY

2011-01-12T14:50:00.000-08:00

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Corinthians

Read 2 Corinthians 4-5

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! 2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV

* * *

In this letter Paul encourages the Corinthian church to endure in their trials. He said of himself and his companions, “We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired even of life. Indeed, in our hearts we felt the sentence of death.” (2 Corinthians 1:8b-9a)

Though they themselves were “jars of clay”, he said, they endured because of the all surpassing power of God. “Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day...” (4:16)

In view of eternity and what Christ accomplished for us on the cross, Paul reminds them and us, “...he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again” (5:15)

* * *

Lord, I will probably never face the kind of opposition that Paul and the early church had to face, but I know that there are Christians throughout the world who are being persecuted. Lord, show your all-surpassing power to them, and help me to remember that I too have access to this power in my life through your Holy Spirit.

* * *

"But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us..." 2 Corinthians 4:7 NIV

NO MORE DEATH

2011-01-07T10:18:00.000-08:00

[14]

Read 1 Corinthians 15

For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive. The last enemy to be destroyed is death. 1 Corinthians 15:22, 26 NIV

* * *

One thing we all have to face is the reality of death. No matter how healthy we are, eventually it will catch up with us. By receiving the free gift Christ has purchased, we have the promise of eternal life, but we will see physical death in this body – unless of course, He returns in our lifetime.

Paul writes, "Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed- in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed." (15:51-52)

He assures us as believers, that when we die, we will immediately enter God's presence clothed with immortality, never to see death again. For when the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: "Death has been swallowed up in victory."(15:54)

* * *

Lord, thank you for the promise that death is not the end. I can look forward to seeing my loved ones who are already in Heaven and will spend eternity praising You for all You have done for us in this life and the one to come.

* * *

Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain. 1 Corinthians 15:58 NIV

THOUGHTS FOR THE NEW YEAR

2011-01-02T15:35:00.000-08:00

Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God. 1 Corinthians 2:12

* * *

So here we are, well on our way into 2011. I can’t believe that I wrote the first installment to THE GOD WHO SEES ME – A Devotional Prayer Journal in August of 2007. Along the way to this blogging outreach, I have enjoyed various ministries, but never have I felt a stronger leading from the Lord than with this online journal.

The urge to write came during a particularly dry period when I was praying for the filling of the Holy Spirit in my life, especially in regard to ministry. Only 5 days after praying that specific prayer, I wrote in my personal journal that I thought I might start a Through-the-Bible series of devotions. This was initially for my own spiritual growth, but soon I wanted to share it with others. I began with a small e-mail list of friends and family which grew larger as time went by. Eventually, by March of 2008 I was posting online, beginning with Genesis 1:1, “In the Beginning God…”

Now after posting readings appropriate for Christmas, I will be continuing with the letters to the church at Corinth where we left off in November. My plan this year is to link the Bible references to the BlueLetterBible.org online Bible. This will make it easier to read the entire context of the Scriptures that I quote in the post. I hope this will be helpful for those who don’t have a Bible handy to look up the reference.

* * *

Dear Lord, I pray that my readers will be encouraged to spend time in Your Word this year. I pray that my brief devotional thoughts will help others to apply these Scripture readings to their own life situations. For those who are still seeking to know the truth, draw them by your Holy Spirit to an understanding of who You are and what You have done for them. In Jesus name, Amen

* * *

“Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him.” 1 Corinthians 2:9

FLIGHT TO EGYPT

2010-12-26T17:52:00.000-08:00

Read Matthew 2:1-15

Now when they had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, saying, “Arise, take the young Child and His mother, flee to Egypt, and stay there until I bring you word; for Herod will seek the young Child to destroy Him.” Matthew 2:13 NKJV

* * *

Centuries before this, God instructed the family of Jacob (Israel) to settle in Egypt because of a great famine in the land. Now the family of Messiah, descendants of Jacob are forced to flee to Egypt once again. This time just until the death of Herod, but still a significant event in the light of prophesy.

What was to both generations a time of sorrow and testing was actually the moving of the providence of God in bringing about the salvation that is so freely offered to us today. Jesus, the Son of God, was also a descendant of Jacob through his mother Mary, and the fulfillment of a promise made to Jacob. God's perfect plan was being worked out in spite of the acts of wicked sinful men.

* * *

Lord, help us to trust you and your plan for our lives, in spite of the circumstances we face. You are the God of history and You have our future in Your hands. Help us to never forget that as we look with dismay at threatening world events shaping up around us.

* * *

When he arose, he took the young Child and His mother by night and departed for Egypt, and was there until the death of Herod, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying, “Out of Egypt I called My Son.” Matthew 2:14-15 NKJV

PROPHESY FULLFILLED

2010-12-24T08:59:00.000-08:00

RACHAEL WEEPING FOR HER CHILDREN

Read Matthew 2:1-23; Genesis 35:9-19; Jeremiah 31:15

* * *

When Herod realized that he had been outwitted by the Magi, he was furious, and he gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and under– Then what was said through the prophet Jeremiah was fulfilled: Matthew 2:16–17 NIV

* * *

More than 1400 years before Christ was born, the patriarch Jacob buried his beloved wife, Rachel who died in childbirth. We read, "So Rachel died and was buried on the way to Ephrath (that is, Bethlehem). Over her tomb Jacob set up a pillar, and to this day that pillar marks Rachel's tomb." (Genesis 35:19–20)
The prophet Jeremiah predicted a future day when children would be slaughtered near Rachel's grave. (Jeremiah 31:15) This was fulfilled when Herod killed all of the male babies under two, trying to destroy the Jewish Messiah.

* * *

We live in a day where it could be said "A voice was heard in America of weeping and mourning for children, because they are no more." The travesty of millions of babies aborted over the past thirty plus years must grieve your heart, Lord. Don't let us become apathetic to the cries of unborn babies, or the grief caused to women in our day.

* * *

"A voice is heard in Ramah, weeping and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children and refusing to be comforted, because they are no more." Matthew 2:18 NIV

WISE MEN STILL SEEK HIM

2010-12-20T10:23:00.000-08:00

THE WISE MEN AND HEROD

Read Matthew 2:1–12 & Micah 5:2

When he had called together all the people's chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Christ was to be born. "In Bethlehem in Judea," they replied, "for this is what the prophet has written: Matthew 2:4–5 NIV

* * *

Long before Jesus was born, the prophets predicted His coming. The priests and rabbis knew that the Messiah was to be born in Bethlehem – a prophesy they explained to Herod and to the Kings from the East. We know that even the common people were taught this prophesy because later, after Jesus began His ministry, they said, "How can the Christ come from Galilee? Does not the Scripture say that the Christ will come from David's family and from Bethlehem, the town where David lived?" (John 7:41b-42)

The people must not have realized that Christ was born in Bethlehem during the time of the census though his home was in Nazareth. They really had no excuse for not recognizing their Messiah. Had they truly been looking for Him, they would have known who He was–just as the Wise Men and even Herod did. The wise kings sought to worship Him, but Herod caused the murders of thousands of children in his attempt to destroy Him.

* * *

Lord, I praise You for the reliability of Your Word. Help me to be willing to share the message of Your coming with my children, my friends and all who might be seeking for truth. As the Christmas cards say, "Wise men still seek Him."

* * *

"Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him." Matthew 2:2 NIV

REVEALER OF HEARTS

2010-12-16T12:44:00.000-08:00

SIMEON
Read Luke 2:21-40
Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: "This child is destined… to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too." Luke 2:34–35 NIV

* * *

Holding the newborn baby in his arms, Simeon spoke prophetic words: Mary's life would be filled with both joy and sorrow, her baby would be at the center of controversy, her Son would be the revealer of hearts – even her own.

Mary would have to learn to step back, be silent, and continue to ponder things in her heart. Shepherds could praise Him, Pharisees would curse Him and children would adore Him – but Mary could only quietly pray for Him. He was her son, but he was also her Savior. God's plan would proceed as she stood by and watched.

* * *

Lord, I know You have a plan for each of our children. Mary had some very human sons and daughters in addition to her perfect Son, Jesus. Would they ever accept Him as Messiah? No doubt, Mary prayed that her other children would receive Him as their personal Savior. It wasn't until after the resurrection that they truly believed – but in God's perfect time – Mary's prayers were answered.

* * *

And Joseph and His (Jesus) mother marveled at those things which were spoken of Him. Luke 2:33 NKJV

GOD WITH US

2010-12-12T16:11:00.000-08:00

IMMANUEL

Read Isaiah 7:10-14, 9:1-7; Matthew 1:18-2:6

All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: "The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel"-which means, "God with us." Matthew 1:22–23 NIV

* * *

The book of Isaiah was written about 700 years before Christ was born and is filled with prophesies about the coming Messiah. When the angel Gabriel appeared to Joseph, he quoted Isaiah 7:14: “Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.” Jesus would be called, "Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." (Isaiah 9:6b)

* * *

Isaiah prophesied that this Holy Child would live "In Galilee of the Gentiles.” saying, “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in the land of the shadow of death, upon them a light has shined." (Isaiah 9:1b-2 NKJV)

* * *

Dear Lord, You truly are my Wonderful Counselor and I am so thankful that the light of the gospel has shined on me. Just as Isaiah foretold the coming of Jesus, help me to tell the good news wherever I go, especially to members of my family. Keep me faithful in reading Your Word so that I will have something fresh to share with my family and friends.

* * *

"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6 NIV

TIDINGS OF JOY

2010-12-06T09:30:00.000-08:00

THE SHEPHERDS

Read Luke 2:8–20
"Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord." Luke 2:10–11 NKJV

* * *

Exhausted but happy, Joseph wraps his newborn babe in swaddling clothes and lays him at Mary's side. They are alone, in the city of their birth, but not their home. Only the sounds of nearby animals disturb their quiet conversation. What will life be like with this child of God? Soon they will be able to consummate their marriage and build a family together.

Meanwhile, out in the nearby fields, a lowly group of shepherds are in for a big surprise. Suddenly an angel appears in the night sky surrounded by the glory of the Lord. He announces, “There is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord." (2:11) Lonely quiet places - this stable - those fields - where all of history would be changed. Even today we date our lives from this event.

* * *

Lord, help me to value the lonely, quiet moments of my life. They are so few and yet so valuable. Speak to my heart this morning with words of peace. Like Mary, I truly desire to understand Your ways and ponder them in my heart.

* * *

"All those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart." Luke 2:18-19 NKJV

BETHLEHEM

2010-11-29T08:12:00.000-08:00

Read Luke 2:1–7; Micah 5:2

Joseph also went up… to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. Luke 2:4–5 NKJV

* * *

Mary was in the last stages of her pregnancy when something very distressing happened. The ruler of Rome declared that a census be taken, forcing everyone to go to the city of their birth to register. Hardship or not, they had to comply with this order.

Joseph must have been deeply concerned about his wife during the trip to Bethlehem. He probably did not consider at the time that prophesy was being fulfilled. Over 700 years before, the prophet Micah predicted that the promised Messiah would be born in Bethlehem.

* * *

Life is not always convenient or comfortable - sometimes circumstances may be overwhelming. Lord, give us peace in those times, knowing that You are a God who cares and watches over us. Help us to remember that all things work together for good to those who love You and are called according to Your purpose. (Romans 8:28)

* * *

"But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are little among the thousands of Judah, Yet out of you shall come forth to me the one to be Ruler in Israel, Whose goings forth are from of old, from everlasting." Micah 5:2 NKJV

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Corinthians

2010-11-22T07:40:00.000-08:00

[13]

THE GREATEST IS LOVE

Read 1 Corinthians 13
If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. 1 Corinthians 13:1 NIV

* * *

After a discussion in chapter 12 about the various spiritual gifts, and a call for unity in exercising those gifts in the church, Paul says, “…But eagerly desire the greater gifts. (those that edify and build up the body) And now I will show you the most excellent way...” (12:31)

No matter what the gift or talent God has bestowed upon you, it is worth nothing if not exercised in love ─ and this, writes Paul, is what love looks like: "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres." (13:4-7)

* * *

Lord, this is a tall order for anyone, but absolutely necessary in our relationships with other believers. Obviously, those early churches had to struggle with their issues just as we do today. Love certainly requires forgiveness and humility. Help me to "keep no record of wrongs."

* * *

And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love. 1 Corinthians 13:13 NIV

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Corinthians

2010-11-15T10:09:00.000-08:00

[12]
FOLLOW THE LEADER

Read 1 Corinthians Chapters 1 – 3

Now I say this, that each of you says, "I am of Paul," or "I am of Apollos," or "I am of Cephas," or "I am of Christ." Is Christ divided? 1 Corinthians 1:12-13a NKJV

* * *

The church at Corinth had several gifted teachers, each with his own style of ministry. The new converts were lining up contentiously behind their favorite leaders, causing division in the church.

Paul writes, “Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers through whom you believed, as the Lord gave to each one? I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase.” (3:5-6)

He urges them to come together in unity and benefit from all God has given saying, “Now he who plants and he who waters are one, and each one will receive his own reward according to his own labor. (3:8)

It is human nature to get our eyes on men instead of God. Many a ministry has been hindered because of this wrong focus. Paul reminds them and us, "Therefore let no one boast in men. For all things are yours… And you are Christ's, and Christ is God's." (3:21, 23)

* * *

Lord, keep us from being critical of leaders who are doing Your work, but not in the way we would choose. Help us to be gracious and thankful that we have so many resources available to us. Above all, help us to build faithfully on the foundation of Your Word.

* * *

For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 3:11 NKJV

A FAITHFUL WIFE AND MOTHER

2010-11-12T10:32:00.000-08:00

I recently read the book “Searching for Mrs. Oswald Chambers” by Martha Christian. I was interested in reading about this faithful woman who drew no attention to herself, but published her husband’s words for all of us to cherish long after they were both in Heaven.

The author of this biography interviewed Biddy Chamber’s daughter in England for insights into her mother’s life. I was blessed and challenged by a personal poem that Biddy’s daughter wrote about her:

Not merely in the words you say

Not only in the deeds confessed

But in the most unconscious way

It is expressed.

Is it a beautific smile, a holy light upon the brow?

Oh no, I felt His presence while you laughed just now!

For me was not the truth you taught,

For you so clear, to me still dim

But when you came to me you brought

a sense of Him.

And from your eyes He beckoned me and

From your heart His love is shed

‘til I lose sight of you and see

The Christ instead.

ONE HEART

2010-11-09T16:10:00.001-08:00

[11]
A SPIRIT OF UNITY

Read Romans 14–15

For none of us lives to himself alone and none of us dies to himself alone. If we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.

Romans 14:7-8 NIV

* * *

As a mixed congregation of Jews and Gentiles, with different backgrounds, the Roman believers also had differences of opinion on what was acceptable behavior. Some wanted to celebrate certain holy days and others did not. Some had convictions about buying meat that had been sacrificed to idols, and others did not. Paul says, “… let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother's way. " (14:13)

The principle is that we are responsible to edify and encourage our Christian brothers and sisters. Instead of insisting on our own point of view on questionable matters, we should “accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God” (15:7)

* * *

Lord, I pray that nothing I do will be a stumbling block to another Christian. I ask for a spirit of love and unity, even when I may have strong opinions about a matter. I pray that what comes out of my mouth will glorify You, and build up the fellowship of believers.

* * *

" May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. " Romans 15:5-6 NIV

A LIVING SACRIFICE

2010-11-01T11:15:00.000-07:00

DO NOT BE CONCEITED

Read Romans 11–12

As far as the gospel is concerned, they are enemies on your account; but as far as election is concerned, they are loved… for God's gifts and his call are irrevocable. Romans 11:28a-29 NIV

* * *

In this section Paul addresses the believers who were saved as a result of his ministry to Gentiles. Paul’s own people have for the most part, rejected the gospel, but one day there will be an awakening in Israel. He writes,
“I do not want you to be ignorant of this mystery, brothers, so that you may not be conceited: Israel has experienced a hardening in part until the full number of the Gentiles has come in. And so all Israel will be saved… (11:25-26a NIV)

Paul reminds the Gentile Christians that God still has plans for the Jews who are now opposing them: He says, “Just as you who were at one time disobedient to God have now received mercy as a result of their disobedience, so they too have now become disobedient in order that they too may now receive mercy as a result of God's mercy to you. (11:30-31 NIV) In view of this great mercy to them and to us, what are we to do?

"I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service." Romans 12:1 NKJV

* * *

I am so thankful that the gospel was presented to me along with your merciful gift of faith to believe it. I am praying for those precious people who seem unable to come to faith and receive your gift of salvation.

Lord grant me wisdom as I share Your Word in a way they can understand. Draw them by the influence of Your Holy Spirit to become part of the family of Christ.

* * *

For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you. Romans 12:3 NIV

BEAUTIFUL FEET

2010-10-24T15:13:00.000-07:00

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Romans

HOW SHALL THEY HEAR?

Read Romans Chapters 9 –10

That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. Romans 10:9 NIV

* * *

Although the church at Rome was started by Jewish believers, the larger growth was among the Gentiles. Paul’s heart was that his own Jewish brethren would be saved, but God had called him to spread the Word to all who would believe.
He now makes his case for the importance of evangelism. He asks them, “How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard?” (10:14)

The Jews, he said, had heard the message by way of the prophets, though most had not accepted their Messiah when He came. But the way of salvation was the same for both Jews and Gentiles.
"For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile-the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him, for, 'Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.' " (10:12-13)

* * *

Lord, I pray for the day when Israel will recognize their Messiah. I am so thankful that the gospel was preached to people groups who passed it down to us. May we be faithful to tell others that As the Scripture says, "Anyone who trusts in him will never be put to shame." (10:11)

* * *

...And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!" Romans 10:14b-15 NIV

GOD IS FOR US

2010-10-19T13:50:00.000-07:00

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Romans

WHO CAN BE AGAINST US?

Read Romans 8:28–39

"And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose." Romans 8:28 NKJV

* * *

In the early days of the church, believers faced opposition among their own people, sometimes in their own families. Rome certainly had no great love for the Truth and the Jews saw it as a threat to their long established traditions.

Paul is writing letters from afar, giving encouragement that was sorely needed in the lives of these new believers. He first reassures them that God knows and sees everything they are going through. He also has a future plan for them which was in place before they were even born. He says, “For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers.”(8:29)

He tells them that just as they are now justified, they will one day be glorified in His presence. “What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all-how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?” (8:31-32)

Lord, never let me take for granted that You have a plan for my life, You knew me before I was born and All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. (Psalms 139:16 NIV) Nothing can separate me from Your love.

* * *

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."" Romans 8:38-39 NIV

THE SPIRIT WITHIN

2010-10-14T10:18:00.000-07:00

[7]

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Romans

Read Romans 8:1-27

You, however, are controlled not by the sinful nature but by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Christ. Romans 8:9 NIV

* * *

     Paul has presented the dilemma of our struggle with sin – and its solution through the sacrifice of Jesus. We still, however, must live with the presence of sin and in a physical sense we will one day face death, unless Jesus returns in our lifetime.
     So Paul goes on to say, “...if Christ is in you, your body is dead because of sin, yet your spirit is alive because of righteousness." (8:10) –so what is our ultimate hope?
     “...And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit, who lives in you.” (8:11)

We not only stand as righteous before God because of the death of Jesus, we also have the hope of eternal life because of His resurrection. This life begins today with the Spirit who dwells within us.
“For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, "Abba, Father." The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children ." (8:15–16)

* * *

Thank you, Father that I am your child and I do not need to fear death. I thank you also for the abundant life you have promised us through your indwelling Holy Spirit. No matter what my circumstances are from day to day, I can be secure in your love for me.

* * *

And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will. Romans 8:27 NIV

THE INWARD STRUGGLE

2010-10-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Romans

Read Romans 7:1–8:2

I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature, for I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. Romans 7:18 NIV

* * *

All of their lives the Jewish believers had been taught the laws given by God to Moses. Did this new teaching mean that Moses was wrong? “What shall we say, then? Paul exclaims, Is the law sin? Certainly not! Indeed I would not have known what sin was except through the law. For I would not have known what coveting really was if the law had not said, ‘Do not covet.’” (7:7)

The problem, he explains, is not with the law; the problem is with us ─“We know that the law is spiritual; but I am unspiritual, sold as a slave to sin. I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree that the law is good.” (7:14-16)
The righteousness we could not attain because of our constant struggle with sin – God purchased for us through His Son. “…Who will rescue me from this body of death? Thanks be to God–through Jesus Christ our Lord…!” (7:24-25)

* * *

Lord, I see myself in this passage, striving to have the perfect attitude and to do the right thing, but so often getting off the path into self pity, resentment and just plain carnal thinking. How thankful I am that You are the perfect one and Your Spirit dwells in me, enabling me to be forgiven and start anew whenever I fall short of Your Word.

* * *

"Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death." Romans 8:1-2 NIV

NO LONGER SLAVES

2010-09-29T10:34:00.000-07:00

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Romans

Read Romans 6

What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means! We died to sin; how can we live in it any longer? Romans 6:1-2 NIV

* * *

We as believers were once slaves to the sinful nature we inherited from the first man, Adam. The penalty for sin is death, and the price was paid by the one perfect man Jesus, the Son of God. Paul explains that "If we have been united with him like this in his death, we will certainly also be united with him in his resurrection." (6:5)

One day we will stand before him rescued from our old sin nature. We have already been rescued from the penalty of sin, and because of this, we should give ourselves to the service of the one who bought us with His blood. "For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin." (6:6)

Though we will often struggle in this earthly body to resist our sinful nature and submit to God, Paul reminds believers that “since Christ was raised from the dead, he cannot die again; death no longer has mastery over him…In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus." (6:9, 11)

* * *

Lord, I praise you for the mercy and grace that sent Your Son to the cross for my sin. I thank you also that through your Spirit I have the resources to live a life of victory over my sinful nature.

* * *

"Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires.” (6:12)

JUST THE RIGHT TIME

2010-09-14T07:50:00.000-07:00

LIFE IN CHRIST

Read Romans 4–5

You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly─ God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:6, 8 NIV

* * *

After giving the example of Abraham’s faith in waiting a lifetime for God’s promise of a Savior, Paul tells the believers in Rome that Jesus came “at just the right time.” Certainly God’s time clock is different from ours. Abraham died without seeing the promised Messiah, but he is with Him now as the recipient of eternal life.
In the fullness of time, God sent His Son into the world to pay for the sins of all who would receive Him, for …where sin increased, grace increased all the more, so that, just as sin reigned in death, so also grace might reign through righteousness to bring eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. (5:20b-21)

Abraham believed God, "being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised. This is why "it was credited to him as righteousness."
The words "it was credited to him" were written not for him alone, but also for us, to whom God will credit righteousness–for us who believe in him who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead" (4:21-24)

* * *

Dear Father, I cannot find the words to express the gratitude I have in my heart that you sent Jesus “at just the right time.” I not only have eternal life through the death of Your Son, I have an abundant life today through His life in me.

* * *

For if, when we were God's enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life! Romans 5:10 NIV

JUSTIFIED BY FAITH

2010-09-14T07:40:00.000-07:00

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Romans

Read Romans Chapters 2 ─ 3

Therefore no one will be declared righteous in his sight by observing the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of sin. Romans 3:20 NIV

* * *

Paul speaks especially to the Jewish believers in these chapters. He teaches them the reality that every human being has sinned in God’s sight. Some are obviously sinners by the wicked deeds they do – but then he goes on to tell them that they too have transgressed God’s laws.

The only hope for all of mankind is through the shed blood of Jesus Christ. Paul wrote, “This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.” (3:22-24)

These new believers needed to be taught that just as they had received Christ by faith, now they needed to live their lives in that same faith. A truly righteous life would not come from observing the law, but by trusting in the Son of God who wrote the law.

* * *

Thank you Lord, that in spite of my sin, You paid the price on the cross so that I could live an abundant Christian life by faith. Help me to apply this truth to everything I do for my family, in my church and out in the world – that in everything I would trust in You.

* * *

Where, then, is boasting? It is excluded. On what principle? On that of observing the law? No, but on that of faith. Romans 3:27 NIV

ENCOURAGEMENT

2010-08-31T14:27:00.000-07:00

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Romans

Read Romans 1:1-19

I long to see you so that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to make you strong– that is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other's faith Romans 1:11-12 NIV

* * *

The church at Rome was established by Jewish believers who came to faith at Pentecost. (Acts 2) Paul wrote them this letter to encourage and build them up in a full understanding of the Truth. He also encouraged them to build each other up through the abilities God had given them.

Reports of the ongoing spread of the gospel brought tremendous encouragement to Paul. He said, “First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith is being reported all over the world.” (Romans 1:8)

Paul had suffered much for preaching that Jesus …was declared with power to be the Son of God by his resurrection from the dead… (1:4) But in spite of this he said, “I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile” (1:16)

* * *

Dear Lord, grant me the ability to share my faith, realizing that it is not my ability to convince, but the power of the Holy Spirit that will bring men to faith. Help me to be a source of encouragement to other believers.

* * *

For in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: "The righteous will live by faith." Romans 1:17 NIV

GOD'S PLAN MOVES FORWARD

2010-08-26T08:20:00.000-07:00

INTRODUCTION TO ROMANS

Read Acts 25:1-12; 28:16-31

Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God- the gospel he promised beforehand through his prophets in the Holy Scriptures…To all in Rome who are loved by God and called to be saints: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ. Romans 1:1–2, 7 NIV

* * *

The church at Rome grew from the nucleus of Jews who believed the gospel during the feast of Pentecost in Jerusalem. At the time Paul wrote this letter to the Roman church, he was in Corinth and had not yet been to Rome. This inspired letter contains very concise doctrinal teaching for both the Jews and Gentiles who made up the church.

* * *

Paul had been on three missionary journeys preaching the gospel to those who had not yet heard which he believed was his primary calling. He wrote, “I myself am convinced, my brothers, that you yourselves are full of goodness, complete in knowledge and competent to instruct one another. I have written you quite boldly on some points, as if to remind you of them again…” (Romans 15:14-15a) He then tells them that he is going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to him there, but he hopes he will be able to come to Rome after he delivers a gift to the believers there.

* * *

Later in Jerusalem, Paul was arrested for preaching the gospel and taken before the authorities, where he claimed his rights as a Roman citizen. Because he appealed to Caesar, he was taken to Rome, where the authorities allowed him to live in his own rented house under a guard.

* * *

Three days after his arrival, he called together the leaders of the Jews. From morning till evening he explained and declared to them the kingdom of God and tried to convince them about Jesus from the Law of Moses and from the Prophets. Some were convinced by what he said, but others would not believe. Acts 28:23b-24 NIV

* * *

When the unbelieving Jews left him, rejecting the message, Paul said, "Therefore I want you to know that God's salvation has been sent to the Gentiles, and they will listen!" (Acts 28:28) and so it was that the church in Rome grew through the ministry of a preacher confined to his house.

* * *

Lord, I praise You that your plan for reaching men and women is not limited to our efforts and vision for the future. What a wonderful thing that the apostle Paul, under house arrest, was still able to preach the gospel to all who came to him. Help me to remember that it is still Your Holy Spirit who draws men, women and children to You.

* * *

For two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to see him. Boldly and without hindrance he preached the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ. Acts 28:30-31 NIV

FINISHING WITH JOY

2010-08-20T07:20:00.000-07:00

[84]

FROM EPHESUS TO JERUSALEM

Read Acts 19:21–41; 20:17–38

Then they all wept freely, and fell on Paul's neck and kissed him, sorrowing most of all for the words which he spoke, that they would see his face no more. Acts 20:37b–38a NKJV

* * *

For the first three months in Ephesus, Paul preached in the Jewish synagogues, but when opposition to the gospel escalated he began to reason daily in the lecture hall of Tyrannus. This went on for two years, so that all the Jews and Greeks who lived in the province of Asia heard the word of the Lord. (19:9b–10 NIV)

After three years of ministry in Ephesus, Paul was forced to leave. Later, when he arrived at Miletus, he sent to Ephesus for the elders of the church. When they arrived, he said, "And now compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there. I only know that in every city the Holy Spirit warns me that prison and hardships are facing me." (20:22–23 NIV)

* * *

Paul traveled on three missionary journeys, planting churches everywhere. Then he would go to prison and accomplish the greatest task of all – writing inspired letters that are still ministering to us today as part of the Word of God. Lord, help us to build carefully on the foundation others have laid – and be faithful to pass on the message of Your grace.

* * *

But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God. Acts 20:24 NKJV

A FAITHFUL COUPLE

2010-08-17T12:43:00.000-07:00

[83]

AQUILLA AND PRISCILLA

Read Acts 18

There he met a Jew named Aquila, a native of Pontus, who had recently come from Italy with his wife Priscilla, because Claudius had ordered all the Jews to leave Rome. Acts 18:2 NIV

* * *

Leaving the city of Athens, Paul traveled to Corinth where he sought work. He met Aquila and Priscilla, Jewish believers who had recently been banished from Rome. As natives of Pontus, Aquila and Priscilla may have heard the gospel on the Day of Pentecost and fled to Rome during the dispersion of the church from Jerusalem.

Now by God's sovereign design, He used them in the evangelistic ministry of Paul, traveling with him to Ephesus, where they stayed and worked with the Ephesian church. Meanwhile a Jew named Apollos, a native of Alexandria, came to Ephesus. When Priscilla and Aquila heard Apollos' dynamic preaching, they invited him to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately. (18:26)

* * *

This faithful, mature couple set an example of patient endurance, hard work and fruitful ministry. Lord, I pray that our home will always be a welcoming place where other believers are encouraged and built up in the Word.

* * *

When Apollos wanted to go to Achaia, the brothers encouraged him and wrote to the disciples there to welcome him. On arriving, he was a great help to those who by grace had believed. Acts 18:27 NIV

SUMMER READING

2010-08-01T06:29:00.000-07:00

On March 31st we began reading through the Acts of the Apostles. These are the stories of the men and women who walked with Jesus and witnessed His resurrection. It is also the account of those who came to know Christ through the preaching of the Apostles and spread of the gospel by believers.

The most compelling real life story is that of Saul who was converted after Jesus appeared to him on the road to Damascus where he carried letters from the high priest "so that if he found any who were of the Way, whether men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem." (Acts 9:2)

Renamed the apostle Paul, this chosen man went on to become a missionary to the Gentiles, plant churches and write the inspired letters that make up most of the New Testament.

The book of Acts tells us about the founding of the early churches and the lives of ordinary men and women who trusted Christ. We will be spending our summer reading through this amazing book and learning to trust Him for great things in our own lives.

In the fall we will begin with the inspired letters (epistles) written to the churches which were planted during this time. I would like to encourage each of you to read through the book of Acts as we continue this study. I know that many of you will be vacationing during the summer, but all of the weekly posts will remain online and it will be easy to catch up with the readings you miss.

In September we will begin reading the letters to the churches intended for all who would believe on the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. "For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope." (Rom 15:4 NKJV)
I want to thank all of you who have been subscribers to THE GOD WHO SEES ME - A Devotional Prayer Journal since we began in February, 2008. For those of you who have just joined us, welcome to our journey through God's Word.

AN UNKNOWN GOD

2010-07-29T12:15:00.000-07:00

[82]

Read Acts 17:22–34

"Men of Athens! I see that in every way you are very religious. For as I walked around and looked carefully at your objects of worship, I even found an altar with this inscription: TO AN UNKNOWN GOD. Acts 17:22b–23a NIV

* * *

     After fleeing to Athens, Paul found himself in a very different setting. He went to the marketplace daily, preaching the good news about Jesus and the resurrection to all who would listen. This was easily done since all the Athenians and the foreigners who lived there spent their time doing nothing but talking about and listening to the latest ideas. (17:21)
     A group of Epicurean and Stoic philosophers disputed with him about Jesus' resurrection from the dead. Paul began his argument by referring to their monument to "An Unknown God."
     "Now what you worship as something unknown I am going to proclaim to you. The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth…(17:23b-24a) From one man he made every nation of men, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he determined the times set for them and the exact places where they should live. God did this so that men would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him…”(17:26-27)

* * *

Paul was trained in the Jewish law, but the Holy Spirit enabled him to present the gospel to secular philosophers. Lord, I need this kind of discernment to be ready to give an answer to people I meet out in the marketplace of ideas.

* * *

"In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent." Acts 17:30 NIV

MORE NOBLE CHARACTER

2010-07-24T06:20:00.000-07:00

[81]

THESSALONICA AND BEREA

Read Acts 17:1–15

Paul reasoned with them from the Scriptures, explaining that the Christ had to suffer and rise again from the dead, and saying, "This Jesus whom I preach to you is the Christ." Acts 17:2-3 NKJV

* * *

For three Sabbaths Paul taught in the synagogue at Thessalonica before opposition began. Some of the Jews were persuaded and joined Paul and Silas, as did a large number of God-fearing Greeks, both men and women. These would become the founders of the Thessalonian church. But the Jewish leaders were jealous and hired some evil men to round up a mob and cause a riot. When word of this arrived, the believers immediately sent Paul and Silas away by night to Berea.

Now the Bereans were of more noble character than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true. Many of the Jews believed, as did also a number of prominent Greek women and many Greek men. (Acts 17:11-12 NIV)

* * *

Lord, help us to be like the Bereans, getting to know Your Word and teaching it accurately to our children, so that they can recognize the difference between truth and error and find Your perfect will for their lives

* * *

When the Jews in Thessalonica learned that Paul was preaching the word of God at Berea, they went there too, agitating the crowds and stirring them up. The brothers immediately sent Paul to the coast, but Silas and Timothy stayed at Berea. Acts 17:13-14 NIV

SINGING IN PRISON

2010-07-16T09:09:00.000-07:00

[80]

IMPRISONED IN PHILIPI

Read Acts 16:16–40

At midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them. Acts 16:25 NKJV

* * *

One day on the way to the place of prayer, a demon possessed girl followed Paul and Silas shouting "These men are servants of the Most High God, who are telling you the way to be saved." Finally Paul became so troubled that he turned around and said to the demon, "In the name of Jesus Christ I command you to come out of her!" (Acts 16:17-18)

This act of compassion for the girl resulted in a loss of profits for her owners. They arrested and flogged Paul and Silas, threw them into prison and fastened their feet in stocks. At midnight, as they were singing hymns, a violent earthquake caused the doors to open and everyone's chains to come loose. The frightened jailer, said, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" They replied, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved–you and your household." (Acts 16:30-31) At that hour of the night, Paul spoke the Word of the Lord to the jailer's family and they believed and were baptized.

* * *

Lord, Your chosen ones were in every place the apostles traveled: A city given over to demons, a cold dark prison, a prayer group by the river – all known to You before the beginning of time. Thank You for including us in this vast multitude of believers.

* * *

So they went out of the prison and entered the house of Lydia; and when they had seen the brethren, they encouraged them and departed. Acts 16:40 NKJV

COME HELP US

2010-07-08T07:25:00.000-07:00

[79]

LYDIA OF PHILIPPI

Read Acts 16:6–15

And a vision appeared to Paul in the night. A man of Macedonia stood and pleaded with him, saying, "Come over to Macedonia and help us." Acts 16:9 NKJV

* * *

Paul, Silas and Timothy attempted to enter Asia on their second missionary journey, but the Holy Spirit prevented them, closing the door on their plans. Paul saw a vision as he slept, of a Macedonian man pleading with him to come and help them.
When the three men arrived in Philippi, Macedonia, they stayed for several days. On the Sabbath they went to the riverside where prayer was customarily made. What they found was not a man, as Paul saw in his vision, but a prayer meeting for women.

One of those listening was a woman named Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth from the city of Thyatira, who was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul's message. (16:14 NIV) Lydia opened both her heart and her home for the apostles to stay, planting a church at Philippi and beginning what would become a lighthouse of the gospel in Europe.

* * *

Lord, how glad I am that You value the ministry of women like Lydia, Mary, Martha, and so many others who helped to start the early churches. May our home be a welcoming lighthouse and may our influence be multiplied through our children.

* * *

When she and her household were baptized, she begged us, saying, "If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come to my house and stay." Acts 16:15 NKJV

DISAGREEMENTS

2010-07-01T10:24:00.000-07:00

[78]

TIMOTHY

Read Acts 15:36-41; 1Timothy 1; 2 Timothy 1:5–7

He came to Lystra, where a disciple named Timothy lived, whose mother was a Jewess and a believer, but whose father was a Greek. Acts 16:1 NIV

* * *

Many of the believers in Antioch were taking on the responsibility of teaching and preaching, so Paul said to Barnabas, "Let us go back and visit the brothers in all the towns where we preached the word of the Lord and see how they are doing." (Acts 15:36)
Barnabas insisted on taking John Mark along, but Paul sharply disagreed because Mark deserted them on the first journey. So Paul chose Silas, while Barnabas continued with Mark and they went their separate ways. God blessed the ministry of all these men.

* * *

It must have been a heartbreaking loss for Paul to break fellowship with his friend, but soon after that, Paul met another man with the gift of encouragement, Timothy. Paul would later say of him, "Timothy has proved himself, because as a son with his father he has served with me in the work of the gospel" (Philippians 2:22)

* * *

Lord, sometimes we are saddened when believers disagree. But You are always faithful to provide the encouragement we need to keep going. Help us to trust in Your perfect provision.

* * *

"For this reason I have sent Timothy to you, who is my beloved and faithful son in the Lord, who will remind you of my ways in Christ, as I teach everywhere in every church." 1 Corinthians 4:17 NKJV

A LIGHT FOR THE GENTILES

2010-06-25T08:15:00.000-07:00

[77]

TO THE JEWS FIRST

Read: Acts 13:13–52

'I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.'" Acts 13:47 NIV

* * *

Paul and Barnabas, led by the Holy Spirit, set out on a journey to Cyprus where they spoke in the synagogues. From there they traveled to Pisidian Antioch where the synagogue rulers sent word to them, saying, "Brothers, if you have a message of encouragement for the people, please speak." (13:15)
Paul stood up and motioned with his hand, "Men of Israel and you Gentiles, who worship God, listen to me …We tell you the good news: What God promised our fathers he has fulfilled for us, their children, by raising up Jesus…" (13:16, 32-33a)

The people, eager to hear more, invited the apostles to speak the next Sabbath when almost the whole city gathered to hear the word of the Lord. When the Jews saw the crowds, they were filled with jealousy and talked abusively against what Paul was saying. (13:44-45)

The desire for power in these men blinded them to the truth that their Messiah had come and offered them forgiveness of sin. By rejecting Him, they gave up the gift of eternal life.

* * *

Lord, I am so thankful that You offered that gift to us also, so that we could share the good news with others, both Jews and Gentiles.

* * *

"We had to speak the word of God to you first. Since you reject it and do not consider yourselves worthy of eternal life, we now turn to the Gentiles." Acts 13:46b

UNEXPECTED ANSWER

2010-06-17T14:57:00.000-07:00

[76]

KING HEROD'S PERSECUTION

Read Acts 12:1–24

(King Herod) had James, the brother of John, put to death with the sword… So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him. Acts 12:2, 5 NIV

* * *

On the last night before Peter's trial, the disciples gathered at John Mark's home to pray for his deliverance. What they did not expect, was that their prayers would be miraculously answered that very night.
A young servant girl, Rhoda, came to answer the door, and we are told that "when she recognized Peter's voice, she was so overjoyed she ran back without opening it and exclaimed, "Peter is at the door!" "You're out of your mind," they told her. When she kept insisting that it was so, they said, "It must be his angel." (12:14–15)

While they tried to process what was happening, "Peter kept on knocking, and when they opened the door and saw him, they were astonished." (12:16)

* * *

Lord, I wonder how many times I have prayed without really expecting an answer. It is a comfort to me that You worked this miracle, not because of the strength of their faith, but on the basis of Your Almighty power in answer to earnest prayer.

* * *

…Herod, (who had murdered James) wearing his royal robes, sat on his throne and delivered a public address to the people. They shouted, "This is the voice of a god, not of a man." Immediately, because Herod did not give praise to God, an angel of the Lord struck him down, and he was eaten by worms and died. Acts 12:21–23 NIV

SON OF ENCOURAGEMENT

2010-06-10T08:39:00.000-07:00

[75]

BARNABAS

Read Acts 11:19–30, 12:24–13:3

They sent Barnabas to Antioch. When he arrived and saw the evidence of the grace of God, he was glad and encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts. Acts 11:22-23 NIV

* * *

Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, received a new Christian name from the apostles. They called him Barnabas, which means "Son of Encouragement." He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord through his ministry. (11:24) He went to Tarsus to find Saul, and brought him to Antioch, where the two of them ministered for a year. In later years Saul, also called Paul, would write of Barnabas and his cousin John Mark, "They have proved to be a comfort to me." (Colossians 4:11)

Barnabas possessed the gifts of encouragement and discernment. He was quick to recognize the Spirit of the Lord in a new believer and slow to write him off when he failed. His cousin John Mark ran away during a time of persecution, but later rejoined Barnabas in powerful ministry.

* * *

Lord, help me to be an encourager like Barnabas. Grant me the wisdom to teach our children how to encourage each other as well. As with Barnabas, fill us with the Holy Spirit and faith so that we can encourage other Christians to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts. (11:23-24)

* * *

The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch. Acts 11:26 NIV

WHAT GOD HAS CLEANSED

2010-06-04T10:14:00.000-07:00

[74]

PETER AND CORNELIUS

Read Acts 11:1–18
But the voice answered me again from heaven, 'What God has cleansed you must not call common.' Acts 11:9 NKJV

* * *

Up to this time, the apostles preached primarily to the Jewish people. Even at Pentecost, the people from various nations were professing Jews. To come to God, Peter believed a person must become a Jew and follow the Jewish laws, abstaining from unclean foods.

But God told Peter that he was going to do a new thing through him. He directed him to an Italian centurion named Cornelius whose heart was prepared to hear the gospel. Today he and his household were going to hear the good news, believe it, and receive the Holy Spirit; bringing Gentiles into the New Testament church.

* * *

Dear heavenly Father, help me to remember that before I ever speak to someone about Christ, You have already paved the way. You said, "No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him,"(John 6:44 NKJV) I pray for the drawing of the Holy Spirit in the lives of our children and grandchildren. Speak to their hearts, so that our words will fall on willing ears.

* * *

If therefore God gave them the same gift as He gave us when we believed on the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I that I could withstand God?" Acts 11:17 NKJV

THE MAN WHO RAISED HAVOC

2010-05-28T22:50:00.000-07:00

[73]

FROM DAMASCUS TO JERUSALEM

Read: Acts 9:23–31

All those who heard him were astonished and asked, "Isn't he the man who raised havoc in Jerusalem among those who call on this name?" Acts 9:21 NIV

* * *

After Saul's conversion, and recovery from blindness, he began to preach openly, that "Jesus is the Son of God." Believers were afraid of him, and Jews wanted to kill him; so his followers took him by night and lowered him in a basket through an opening in the wall. (9:25)
From there he traveled back to Jerusalem to join with the believers, but they didn't think he was sincere. With the help of Barnabas, he told his story to the apostles, and was accepted into the church. For a time he spoke boldly to the Jews about his newfound faith, but persecution began again, and Saul now called Paul, left for Tarsus.

* * *

Lord, I can just imagine how those early Christians must have felt. Saul was the one who stood by while Stephen was martyred. He was the one who dragged off men and women and put them in prison. Not only did they need to believe him, they also had to forgive him. Thank You for forgiving me, and help me to learn to forgive others who have "caused havoc in the church."

* * *

Then the church throughout Judea, Galilee and Samaria enjoyed a time of peace. It was strengthened; and encouraged by the Holy Spirit; it grew in numbers, living in the fear of the Lord. Acts 9:31 NIV

A SPECIAL APPOINTMENT

2010-05-22T14:03:00.000-07:00

[72]

PHILIP

Read Acts 8:26–40; Isaiah 53:7–8

Now an angel of the Lord said to Philip, "Go south to the road-the desert road-that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza." Acts 8:26 NIV

* * *

God had a special appointment for Philip on a desert road leading from Jerusalem to Gaza. Though he didn't know it, he was to meet with the chief treasurer for Queen Candace of Ethiopia. This man was sitting in his chariot reading aloud from the book of Isaiah the prophet. (Isaiah 53:7-8)

Philip approached and asked, "Do you understand what you are reading?" "How can I," he said, "unless someone explains it to me? …who is the prophet talking about, himself or someone else?" (Acts 8:30b-31a, 34b)

The passage read, "He was led like a sheep to the slaughter, and as a lamb before the shearer is silent, so he did not open his mouth. In his humiliation he was deprived of justice…For his life was taken from the earth." (Acts 8:32–33 NIV) Then Philip began with that very passage of Scripture and told him the good news about Jesus. (8:35)

* * *

Philip didn't know why he was told to go to the desert, but God had a specific reason for sending him there. Lord, when I am worried, help me to trust Your leading for our family, knowing that You have a purpose for our lives, and perhaps that purpose will be to influence and encourage other people along the way.

* * *

Then…Philip baptized him. When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord suddenly took Philip away, and the eunuch did not see him again, but went on his way rejoicing. Acts 8:38-39 NIV

WHO ARE YOU LORD?

2010-05-14T07:16:00.000-07:00

[71]

SAUL

Read Acts 8:1–3; 9:1–22
Godly men buried Stephen and mourned deeply for him. But Saul began to destroy the church. Going from house to house, he dragged off men and women and put them in prison. Acts 8:2-3 NIV

* * *

The day that Stephen was martyred, a great persecution broke out against the church at Jerusalem. The young man, Saul, asked for official approval to go to Damascus, and arrest any who belonged to "the Way," whether men or women. (9:2)

Saul did this believing that he had God's approval as well. Later he would say, "I was advancing in Judaism beyond many Jews of my own age and was extremely zealous for the traditions of my fathers." (Galatians1:14) On his way to Damascus, this fiery zealous young man had a massive change of heart. He met Jesus who said, "Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?" His immediate response was, "Who are you, Lord?" (Acts 9:4–5)

* * *

Dear Jesus, You are the One who knows men's hearts. Help me to believe that even those who seem to oppose the gospel may have a heart that is searching, and when You speak to them, they will recognize Your voice, because they are Your chosen ones.

* * *

"God, who set me apart from birth and called me by his grace, was pleased to reveal his Son in me so that I might preach him among the Gentiles… " Galatians 1:15-16a NIV

INFLUENCE THROUGH SACRIFICE

2010-05-07T06:38:00.000-07:00

[70]

STEPHEN MARTYRED

Read Acts Chapters 6 ─ 7

These men began to argue with Stephen, but they could not stand up against his wisdom or the Spirit by whom he spoke. Acts 6:9b–10 NIV

* * *

The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith. This was a major threat to the powers in control, so not finding anything with which to accuse Stephen, they lied about him and brought him before the Sanhedrin.

Amazingly, in the face of death, Stephen began by giving a complete overview of Israel's history – ending with, "Was there ever a prophet your fathers did not persecute? They even killed those who predicted the coming of the Righteous one. And now you have betrayed and murdered him…" (7:52 NIV)

* * *

Stephen was chosen by the church to be a deacon. His job was distributing food among the widows, but he also faithfully continued to teach and preach about Jesus Christ. God had a particular Pharisee for Stephen to influence and we are told that "the witnesses laid their clothes at the feet of a young man named Saul." (7:58 NIV) Later this man would be converted and become the Apostle to the Gentiles, renamed Paul, who would write letters from prison which are now included in Holy Scripture.

* * *

Lord, we never know what You will accomplish through those we influence, especially our children. Help us to be faithful as we share the good news of the gospel in our day.

* * *

While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." Then he fell on his knees and cried out, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them." When he had said this, he fell asleep. Acts 7:59-60 NIV

WE MUST OBEY GOD

2010-05-02T15:25:00.000-07:00

[69]
THE APOSTLES IMPRISONED

Read Acts 5:12–32
Then the high priest rose up, and all those who were with him . . . laid their hands on the apostles and put them in the common prison. Acts 5:17-18 NKJV

* * *

Through the preaching of Spirit-filled apostles, "more and more men and women believed in the Lord and were added to their number." (5:14 NIV) The result was that the High Priest and other Sadducees were filled with jealousy, and had them arrested.

After a miraculous escape from prison, the apostles were again taken to the High Priest who said, "We gave you strict orders not to teach in this name,…yet you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching…" Peter and the other apostles replied: "We must obey God rather than men! (5:28-29 NIV)

One of the most convincing proofs of the power of the Holy Spirit was the courage of these ordinary uneducated men. But with God's help, they became extraordinary witnesses for the kingdom.

* * *

Lord, I pray that You will give this ordinary woman an extraordinary filling of Your Spirit today. Help me to keep eternal values in view as I do my daily tasks, and try to love my family and other people as You love me.

* * *

Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Christ. Acts 5:42 NIV

A SURE FOUNDATION

2010-04-27T13:33:00.000-07:00

[68]

JESUS THE CORNERSTONE
Read: Read Acts 4:1–22

This is the 'stone which was rejected by you builders, which has become the chief cornerstone. Acts 4:11 NKJV

* * *

The religious leaders were in a dilemma: A man had been healed and Peter and John insisted that the healing was in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, the One they had crucified.

The apostles claimed that Jesus was a fulfillment of Isaiah's prophesy: "See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation; the one who trusts will never be dismayed." (Isaiah 28:16 NIV) But this same Jesus had become to them "…A stone of stumbling and a rock of offense." (Isaiah 8:14 NKJV)

* * *

They stumbled because they refused to receive the Lord as Savior, in spite of His miracles and fulfillment of prophesy. But God has something better in mind for those of us who have received Him:
"Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, And to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy," (Jude 24 NKJV) to Him be the glory! Thank You Lord Jesus!

* * *

'Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved." Acts 4:12 NKJV

IN THE NAME OF JESUS

2010-04-23T15:30:00.000-07:00

[67]

A LAME MAN HEALED

Read Acts 3

Then Peter said, "Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” Acts 3:6 NIV

* * *

After Pentecost the Apostles were granted the gift of healing that Jesus had promised they would have after He went to the Father. When this man began to walk and praise God, the people were astonished because they recognized him as the same man who used to sit begging at the temple gate called Beautiful, and they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him. (3:10) Peter said, “Why do you stare at us as if by our own power or godliness we had made this man walk?” (3:12b)

This was a moment when Peter and John could have taken credit, but instead Peter began to preach a disturbing message: He proclaimed to them, “you killed the author of life, but God raised him from the dead. We are witnesses of this…” (3:15)

* * *

Lord, I pray that whatever ministry you accomplish through my life, that I will always give glory to You. Help me to be sensitive to the kind of message that will be received, speaking boldly or gently as the occasion requires. You have promised to give the wisdom I need. Thank You, Lord.

* * *

By faith in the name of Jesus, this man whom you see and know was made strong. It is Jesus' name and the faith that comes through him that has given this complete healing to him, as you can all see. (Acts 3:16 NIV)

POWER FROM ABOVE - WITHIN

2010-04-18T19:20:00.000-07:00

[66]

PENTECOST
Read: Acts 2:1–47

Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. Acts 2:2 NIV

* * *

Jesus told His disciples that they would receive power from the Holy Spirit and they would be witnesses to the world, beginning at Jerusalem. So they waited until the day of the feast of Pentecost when Jerusalem was filled with God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven. (2:5) As the apostles began to speak, the people all said, "How is it that each of us hears them in his own native language?" (2:8)

Peter, who had once fled in fear of the Jews, now stood up in front of the largest crowd of Jews he could possibly imagine, and says, "This man (Jesus) was handed over to you by God's set purpose and foreknowledge; and you put him to death by nailing him to the cross. But God raised him from the dead because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him." (2:23-25)

* * *

What a change God's indwelling Spirit had made in Peter. Lord, this same Holy Spirit lives in us, please give us the courage to witness to our generation and the one to come.

* * *

The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off–for all whom the Lord our God will call." Acts 2:39 NIV

HE'S COMING BACK

2010-03-31T13:29:00.000-07:00

THIS SAME JESUS

Read: Acts 1:1–11

He also presented Himself alive after His suffering by many infallible proofs, being seen by them during forty days and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God. Acts 1:3 NKJV

* * *

After forty days of being with Jesus and rejoicing that He was truly alive, the disciples asked Him, "Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?" (Acts1:6 NIV) He told them that it was not for them to know the times and dates, "But," He said, "You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." (1:7-8 NIV)

Then just as they must have wanted to ask Him many other things, He was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight!

* * *

Lord, I can't imagine how alone they must have felt at that moment. We know now, and they knew in just a few days, that they would not be alone. Lord, I praise You that You have given us Your Holy Spirit to guide us. Thank You that though we cannot see Him, He dwells within us and prays for us according to Your will.

* * *

This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven." Acts 1:11b NIV

TOUCH ME AND SEE

2010-03-31T13:27:00.000-07:00

THOMAS BELIEVES

Read: Luke 24:36–43; John 20:24–31

But he (Thomas) said to them, "Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe it." John 20:25 NIV

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Eight days before this scene, the disciples stared in amazed unbelief. Jesus suddenly appeared, and they thought they were seeing a ghost. Then He asked for something to eat and said, "Touch me and see; a ghost does not have flesh and bones, as you see I have." (Luke 24:39)

Now Thomas is unconvinced, since he has not yet seen the Lord. When Jesus appeared again, and showed him his hands and side, Thomas exclaimed, "My Lord and my God!" (John 20:28) Jesus had been telling His disciples all along that he would rise from the dead, but this was something they couldn't comprehend.

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We have the advantage of the complete Scriptures, explaining how all these things fit together with Old Testament prophesy; yet Lord, there are times I struggle to understand Your plan for us. Perhaps it is just enough to say, "My Lord and my God!"

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Jesus said to him, "Thomas, because you have seen Me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed." John 20:29 NKJV

I HAVE SEEN THE LORD!

2010-03-31T13:24:00.000-07:00

MARY MAGDALENE

Read: John 20:1–18

They (the angels) asked her, "Woman, why are you crying?" "They have taken my Lord away," she said, "and I don't know where they have put him." John 20:13 NIV

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Mary Magdalene was one of the devout women who supplied the needs of Jesus and His disciples throughout His ministry. She had been delivered from demon possession as were some of the others who followed Him. She was one of those who remained at the foot of the cross with Mary, the mother of Jesus witnessing his horrible crucifixion.

Three days later Mary went to the grave to grieve – but instead she had an encounter with angels at the empty tomb. Jesus was still there, so changed that she did not realize that it was He ─ until He spoke her name,"Mary." Then she turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, "Rabboni!" (20:16)
Mary Magdalene was forgiven much and she loved much. Her life was dedicated to Jesus' ministry and to being a friend to other believers. God chose her to be the first one to see her risen Lord.

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Thank You Jesus that You came to set people like Mary free from their sin. Thank you for dying for my sin. Help me to show my love for you as Mary did by serving other believers.

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Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: "I have seen the Lord!" John 20:18 NIV

EASTER DEVOTIONS

2010-03-31T13:20:00.000-07:00

SECRET DISCIPLES

Read John 19:38-42

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After this, Joseph of Arimathea, being a disciple of Jesus, but secretly, for fear of the Jews, asked Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus. John 19:38 NKJV

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Here are two Jewish men, one of them Nicodemus, a Pharisee and the other Joseph of Arimathea, a prominent wealthy council member; both of them secret disciples of Jesus. On one occasion Nicodemus tried to speak up at a council meeting by saying, "Does our law judge a man before it hears him and knows what he is doing?" They ridiculed him by saying, "Are you also from Galilee? Search and look, for no prophet has arisen out of Galilee." (John 7:52)

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After the crucifixion, Joseph of Arimathea gathered up his courage and asked Pilot for Jesus' body. He and Nicodemus - no longer secret disciples - prepared the body for burial and laid it in Joseph's new tomb - fulfilling Isaiah's prophecy that Messiah would be buried in a rich man's grave. (Isaiah 53:9)

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Lord, forgive me when I have been reluctant to speak up for You among unbelievers. Give me courage and discernment to know when and where to share my faith.

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And Nicodemus, who at first came to Jesus by night, also came, bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about a hundred pounds. John 19:39 NKJV

EASTER DEVOTIONS

2010-03-31T13:15:00.000-07:00

BEHOLD YOUR MOTHER

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Read John 19:17-37

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Now there stood by the cross of Jesus His mother, and His mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. John 19:25-26 NKJV

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Years ago, Mary had stood with Joseph before the Priest to dedicate her newborn Son. The old man Simeon had prophesied, "This child is destined to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too." (Luke 2:34-35) Now she was experiencing the ultimate piercing of her soul, as Jesus hung from the cross in agonizing pain.

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When Jesus saw His mother, and the disciple whom He loved standing by, He said to His mother, "Woman, behold your son!" Then He said to the disciple, "Behold your mother!" And from that hour that disciple took her to his own home. John 19:26-27 NKJV

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Jesus knew the emotional pain that this moment brought to His mother. God had chosen her of all women to give birth to His Son. But His plans for her were not over. After the resurrection and ascension, her other sons became devout believers. In Acts we read, These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers. Acts 1:14 NKJV

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Lord, so often Mary stood in the background watching God's plan unfold. She is an example I would like to follow when it seems better to be still and wait on You. What honor came to this humble woman as the Son of God saw to her needs in His last hour. I know that You are aware of my needs and the needs of my children. I pray that like Mary's sons they will follow You.

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One of the soldiers pierced Jesus' side with a spear, bringing a sudden flow of blood and water... These things happened so that the scripture would be fulfilled ..."They will look on the one they have pierced." John 19:34-37; Zechariah 12:10