From Gloom to Glee
By Kathy Schultz
I began to smile and see myself as I really was, a grumpy, gloomy person that should have been singing. Thankfulness and joy should have been radiating from me.
Recently I had a day when I felt just a bit blue, a slight bit gloomy. Eyeore of the Tales of Winnie the Pooh and I could have been cut from the same cloth. For those of you that have never read the Pooh series, let me tell you about Eyeore. He is a little blue donkey that speaks and personifies gloom. Pooh and the other characters of the "Hundred Acre Wood" are always trying to cheer him up.
Now, back to my day. Nothing major was wrong … nothing I could put my finger on, but joy and enthusiasm was missing. Possibly it was all the changes around me. My children had lives of their own, my grandchildren were growing up much too fast, school was about to begin again, and summer was ending. These occurrences happen to most of us. Still, it was not much of an excuse for the gloom I felt. Maybe you can relate because you've had similar days or moments.
The Bible is full of people that felt despondent. Isn't it comforting to know that others before us have felt like we do? King David wrote plenty of Psalms expressing sad feelings.
Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? (Psalm 42:5).
My thoughts trouble me and I am distraught (Psalm 55:2).
I did all the things I knew to do … read my Bible, pray, drink my coffee, eat my breakfast, and off to work I went. I did not pray for God to take away the gloomy feeling, but He knew how I felt. After all, He created me. He knows me better than I even know myself.
You know when I sit down or stand up. You know my every thought when far away. You chart the path ahead of me and tell me where to stop and rest. Every moment you know where I am. You know what I am going to say even before I say it, Lord. You both precede and follow me (Psalm 139:2-4).
I walked slowly from the parking lot with my head down, not thinking about anything, just feeling blue. I heard a voice from a car say, "Hey, where is your enthusiasm, the spring in your step, the song on your lips." I never was that enthusiastic in the morning. After all, I wasn't going to an amusement park or a party. I was going to work. The co-worker was kidding, but there was truth in his words. What did I have to be so down about? I began to smile and see myself as I really was, a grumpy, gloomy person that should have been singing. Thankfulness and joy should have been radiating from me. The day was glorious. I had a job, a family that loved me, food to eat, and good health. I could go on and on. You get the picture.
Those of us who know the Lord have the most wonderful reason of all to be thankful and joyful. Jesus loves all of us, even gloomy me. He died on the cross, and rose from the grave so that we can have eternal life.
For God so loved the world, that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life (John 3:16).
God used this co-worker to turn me from gloom to glee. What a terrific day it was! I began to have a song on my lips (on my lips, not out loud) and a spring in my step. The enthusiasm and joy did return. I may become gloomy again, but knowing Christ and remembering what He did for me will bring the joy and enthusiasm back.
If you see me looking like Eyeore, please remind me of God's love!
cbn
Thursday, October 31, 2002
Wednesday, October 30, 2002
Today's scripture is Matthew 15:6
SCRIPTURE READING: Mark 2:1-12
"Thus have ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition."
Cancer. Heart disease. Multiple sclerosis. When we think of killer diseases, those are the names that come to mind. But the truth is, there's a far more deadly killer on the loose in the Church today. And it's destroyed more lives than any of us can imagine. It's called tradition. Traditions rob believers of their healing. They steal the power from the promises of God. Here are three you should beware of:
1. The tradition that says it's not always God's will to heal you. It is God's will to heal you! It says so in His Word. If you don't believe that it is, then you can't pray in faith believing you'll receive. You're like the farmer who sits on his porch and says, "I believe in crops, but I'm not going to plant any seed this year. I'll just believe, and if it's God's will, my crop will come up." That farmer will never see his crop. Faith is the seed of healing--if you don't plant it, it won't grow. A prayer that includes the words, "If it be thy will" won't produce a healing harvest. You must know without a doubt that healing is always God's will for you.
2. Another tradition we hear is that healing has passed away. That there are no miracles today. But the Word of God proves that's not true. In Exodus 15:26, God says, "Iam the Lord that healeth thee." He also tells us that He does not change (Mal. 3:6). He has never changed since the beginning of time. For healing to pass away, God would have to pass away...and He is not about to do that!
3. The third dangerous tradition is this one: "God gets glory from Christians being sick." That tradition totally violates the Word of God. The Bible says that people gave glory to God when they saw the lame walk and the blind see. God receives glory from your healing--not your pain!
The world is looking for a way out of sickness and disease, not a way into it. Let's break down those traditions and deliver a hurting world from the most dangerous killer of all.
bible shack
SCRIPTURE READING: Mark 2:1-12
"Thus have ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition."
Cancer. Heart disease. Multiple sclerosis. When we think of killer diseases, those are the names that come to mind. But the truth is, there's a far more deadly killer on the loose in the Church today. And it's destroyed more lives than any of us can imagine. It's called tradition. Traditions rob believers of their healing. They steal the power from the promises of God. Here are three you should beware of:
1. The tradition that says it's not always God's will to heal you. It is God's will to heal you! It says so in His Word. If you don't believe that it is, then you can't pray in faith believing you'll receive. You're like the farmer who sits on his porch and says, "I believe in crops, but I'm not going to plant any seed this year. I'll just believe, and if it's God's will, my crop will come up." That farmer will never see his crop. Faith is the seed of healing--if you don't plant it, it won't grow. A prayer that includes the words, "If it be thy will" won't produce a healing harvest. You must know without a doubt that healing is always God's will for you.
2. Another tradition we hear is that healing has passed away. That there are no miracles today. But the Word of God proves that's not true. In Exodus 15:26, God says, "Iam the Lord that healeth thee." He also tells us that He does not change (Mal. 3:6). He has never changed since the beginning of time. For healing to pass away, God would have to pass away...and He is not about to do that!
3. The third dangerous tradition is this one: "God gets glory from Christians being sick." That tradition totally violates the Word of God. The Bible says that people gave glory to God when they saw the lame walk and the blind see. God receives glory from your healing--not your pain!
The world is looking for a way out of sickness and disease, not a way into it. Let's break down those traditions and deliver a hurting world from the most dangerous killer of all.
bible shack
Tuesday, October 29, 2002
The Behavior Pyramid
Consider two cultural icons: Mother Teresa and Madonna.
Who represents materialism? Self-sacrifice? I don’t suppose it took you long to answer! And why is that? The reason is that our actions reflect our values. Our values may be hidden, but our behavior isn’t. Our behavior is like the visible tip of a pyramid, the base of which remains out of sight. Here’s what this “behavior pyramid” looks like:
see illustrations
Here’s what it portrays: Our acts are motivated by our values, which come from our beliefs, which are based on what we accept to be the truth. So we’re in really deep trouble if what we believe to be true isn’t true. For instance, if you get on a plane that’s bound for Siberia, but you firmly believe it’s going to the South Pacific, you’re in for a real shock when you arrive and you see the frozen forests instead of sunny beaches.
In all of life’s decisions, it’s critical to act on values that come from beliefs that are based on what’s really true. Otherwise, our lives will be a constant disaster. It doesn’t matter how firmly you believe something; if it’s not based on the truth and you act on it, you’ll suffer. Take what Jesus said about Himself: “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me” (John 14:6). If that’s true, will you be able to get to God through other religious leaders, through meditation or doing good works? The truth is that if you want access to God, you have to go through Jesus. So is it mean-spirited to insist that “the way” of Christianity is the only way to God, or is it just being consistent with the truth—the gospel truth?
I’d say it’s the most significant eternal truth you can add to your “truth base.” Do you have it as the cornerstone of your foundation? —Dean Ohlman
REFLECTION
• Whenever I act in a manner contrary to my beliefs, am I bothered by my inconsistency?
• If I’m not bothered, do I really believe what I say I believe?
• How careful am I about what I put in my “truth base”?
“I tell you the truth.” (said by Jesus 31 times in Matthew)
campus journal
Consider two cultural icons: Mother Teresa and Madonna.
Who represents materialism? Self-sacrifice? I don’t suppose it took you long to answer! And why is that? The reason is that our actions reflect our values. Our values may be hidden, but our behavior isn’t. Our behavior is like the visible tip of a pyramid, the base of which remains out of sight. Here’s what this “behavior pyramid” looks like:
see illustrations
Here’s what it portrays: Our acts are motivated by our values, which come from our beliefs, which are based on what we accept to be the truth. So we’re in really deep trouble if what we believe to be true isn’t true. For instance, if you get on a plane that’s bound for Siberia, but you firmly believe it’s going to the South Pacific, you’re in for a real shock when you arrive and you see the frozen forests instead of sunny beaches.
In all of life’s decisions, it’s critical to act on values that come from beliefs that are based on what’s really true. Otherwise, our lives will be a constant disaster. It doesn’t matter how firmly you believe something; if it’s not based on the truth and you act on it, you’ll suffer. Take what Jesus said about Himself: “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me” (John 14:6). If that’s true, will you be able to get to God through other religious leaders, through meditation or doing good works? The truth is that if you want access to God, you have to go through Jesus. So is it mean-spirited to insist that “the way” of Christianity is the only way to God, or is it just being consistent with the truth—the gospel truth?
I’d say it’s the most significant eternal truth you can add to your “truth base.” Do you have it as the cornerstone of your foundation? —Dean Ohlman
REFLECTION
• Whenever I act in a manner contrary to my beliefs, am I bothered by my inconsistency?
• If I’m not bothered, do I really believe what I say I believe?
• How careful am I about what I put in my “truth base”?
“I tell you the truth.” (said by Jesus 31 times in Matthew)
campus journal
Monday, October 28, 2002
C.R.E.A.M.
READ: Luke 12:13-21
He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.
The Wu Tang Clan, an avant-garde collective, was one of the most popular and influential rap groups of the late 1990s. Wu Tang produced a successful single called C.R.E.A.M.—Cash Rules Everything Around Me. This became the motto for this eclectic bunch and for all their fans. Unfortunately, many individuals in our culture have adopted the “C.R.E.A.M.” philosophy as a lifestyle.
Wu Tang’s motto is C.R.E.A.M. However, it is clear from Scripture that there are some things in life over which money does not rule. Salvation cannot be purchased with wealth. It is a precious gift from a precious God. Peter captured this thought in his first letter: “It was not with perishable things, such as silver or gold that you were redeemed . . . , but with the precious blood of Christ” (1 Peter 1:18-19).
Another gift that money can’t buy or control is good character—a good name (Proverbs 22:1). We develop character as we persevere in a life of integrity and faithfulness to God. In contrast, the hard pursuit of money can easily taint and corrupt our good character.
The third gift on our list is wisdom (Proverbs 3:13-15). Wisdom cannot be bought; it must be developed by knowing God’s Word and applying it to both the pleasant and bitter experiences of life.
Along with these gifts is a final reality called death. Death is not impressed with a person’s wealth. It keeps its appointments with people indiscriminately—young and old, rich and poor. Read Luke 12:13-21 again. The rich man in the parable lived as if he and his money were in control and that there was no God to whom he would be accountable. His financial status did not impress God and could not control or rule over death’s appointment.
It’s interesting that everything money could not control, God has either fulfilled in Christ or has brought under His rule. Christ redeemed us with His precious blood. He is the exact image and character of God and He is the wisdom of God (Hebrews 1:3). Jesus Christ is Lord. He has authority over nature, sin, sickness, evil, death, and even economics.
I like this interpretation of C.R.E.A.M.—Christ Rules Everything Around Me! Let this be the sacred motto of our lives. —Marvin Williams
REFLECTION
• What part of my life do I need to submit to the authority of Christ?
• In what way have I brought my finances under Christ’s authority?
Money can’t buy God’s gifts.
campus journal
READ: Luke 12:13-21
He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.
The Wu Tang Clan, an avant-garde collective, was one of the most popular and influential rap groups of the late 1990s. Wu Tang produced a successful single called C.R.E.A.M.—Cash Rules Everything Around Me. This became the motto for this eclectic bunch and for all their fans. Unfortunately, many individuals in our culture have adopted the “C.R.E.A.M.” philosophy as a lifestyle.
Wu Tang’s motto is C.R.E.A.M. However, it is clear from Scripture that there are some things in life over which money does not rule. Salvation cannot be purchased with wealth. It is a precious gift from a precious God. Peter captured this thought in his first letter: “It was not with perishable things, such as silver or gold that you were redeemed . . . , but with the precious blood of Christ” (1 Peter 1:18-19).
Another gift that money can’t buy or control is good character—a good name (Proverbs 22:1). We develop character as we persevere in a life of integrity and faithfulness to God. In contrast, the hard pursuit of money can easily taint and corrupt our good character.
The third gift on our list is wisdom (Proverbs 3:13-15). Wisdom cannot be bought; it must be developed by knowing God’s Word and applying it to both the pleasant and bitter experiences of life.
Along with these gifts is a final reality called death. Death is not impressed with a person’s wealth. It keeps its appointments with people indiscriminately—young and old, rich and poor. Read Luke 12:13-21 again. The rich man in the parable lived as if he and his money were in control and that there was no God to whom he would be accountable. His financial status did not impress God and could not control or rule over death’s appointment.
It’s interesting that everything money could not control, God has either fulfilled in Christ or has brought under His rule. Christ redeemed us with His precious blood. He is the exact image and character of God and He is the wisdom of God (Hebrews 1:3). Jesus Christ is Lord. He has authority over nature, sin, sickness, evil, death, and even economics.
I like this interpretation of C.R.E.A.M.—Christ Rules Everything Around Me! Let this be the sacred motto of our lives. —Marvin Williams
REFLECTION
• What part of my life do I need to submit to the authority of Christ?
• In what way have I brought my finances under Christ’s authority?
Money can’t buy God’s gifts.
campus journal
Sunday, October 27, 2002
Truth or Fiction?
READ: Psalm 119:137-144
The Word of the Lord is right and true.
Here’s a quiz, given with a little help from truthorfiction.com—a Web site that does the legwork to check out those too-good-to-be-true stories we hear so often. Here are some scenarios you may have read about. Are they “Truth or Fiction”?
1. NASA computer finds biblical missing day.
2. Airlines team up Christian and non-Christian pilots in case of rapture.
3. Bill Gates spoke to high schoolers, detailing his 11 rules for life, including, “Life is not fair; get used to it.”
4. Atheist Madalyn Murray O’Hair is petitioning the FCC to get religious radio and TV off the air.
5. Find errors on new quarters and make money.
Each of these stories has circulated widely, and it would take some research to figure out which, if any, are true (well, maybe not in the O’Hair deal since she’s been dead for several years). But that doesn’t stop people from spreading these stories without bothering to check them out.
Fortunately, truthorfiction.com has done the research and reveals that Nos. 1 through 4 are all false. Only the money-making No. 5 is true. Some of the new American “state series” quarters have upside-down images on the reverse. Find one of those, and you have a numismatist’s dream come true.
Finding the truth is always important. Yet the slogan of today’s world is often “Truth is what you make it to be.” In other words, my ideas and your ideas can be polar opposites and still both be true. That is just postmodern gobbledygook. There is a truth that prevails, and that truth is this: God is our source of all Truth. What He says in His Word trumps all other claims, and only through trusting in the Way, the Truth, and the Life—Jesus—can we live in the truth (Psalm 33:4).
Consider these truths: God created the heavens and the earth. God is love. All have sinned. Jesus rose from the grave and is alive today. Salvation is found in Christ alone. The Holy Spirit indwells believers. God inspired the writing of the Bible. The Bible provides truth for living.
These are truths you can stake your life on—truths that are solid, dependable, and uncontestable. Base your life on the truth God has provided. —Dave Branon
REFLECTION
• What are some stories I’ve heard recently that I don’t really know are true? Have I ever spread a story without finding out whether it is reliable?
• How familiar am I with God’s Word and its truths? How can I become more aware of the fundamental truths of the faith?
Truth begins and ends with God.
campus journal
READ: Psalm 119:137-144
The Word of the Lord is right and true.
Here’s a quiz, given with a little help from truthorfiction.com—a Web site that does the legwork to check out those too-good-to-be-true stories we hear so often. Here are some scenarios you may have read about. Are they “Truth or Fiction”?
1. NASA computer finds biblical missing day.
2. Airlines team up Christian and non-Christian pilots in case of rapture.
3. Bill Gates spoke to high schoolers, detailing his 11 rules for life, including, “Life is not fair; get used to it.”
4. Atheist Madalyn Murray O’Hair is petitioning the FCC to get religious radio and TV off the air.
5. Find errors on new quarters and make money.
Each of these stories has circulated widely, and it would take some research to figure out which, if any, are true (well, maybe not in the O’Hair deal since she’s been dead for several years). But that doesn’t stop people from spreading these stories without bothering to check them out.
Fortunately, truthorfiction.com has done the research and reveals that Nos. 1 through 4 are all false. Only the money-making No. 5 is true. Some of the new American “state series” quarters have upside-down images on the reverse. Find one of those, and you have a numismatist’s dream come true.
Finding the truth is always important. Yet the slogan of today’s world is often “Truth is what you make it to be.” In other words, my ideas and your ideas can be polar opposites and still both be true. That is just postmodern gobbledygook. There is a truth that prevails, and that truth is this: God is our source of all Truth. What He says in His Word trumps all other claims, and only through trusting in the Way, the Truth, and the Life—Jesus—can we live in the truth (Psalm 33:4).
Consider these truths: God created the heavens and the earth. God is love. All have sinned. Jesus rose from the grave and is alive today. Salvation is found in Christ alone. The Holy Spirit indwells believers. God inspired the writing of the Bible. The Bible provides truth for living.
These are truths you can stake your life on—truths that are solid, dependable, and uncontestable. Base your life on the truth God has provided. —Dave Branon
REFLECTION
• What are some stories I’ve heard recently that I don’t really know are true? Have I ever spread a story without finding out whether it is reliable?
• How familiar am I with God’s Word and its truths? How can I become more aware of the fundamental truths of the faith?
Truth begins and ends with God.
campus journal
Saturday, October 26, 2002
Today's scripture is James 1:4
"But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing."
I talk a lot about faith. But there's another force that goes along with it that's just as important. It's patience, the ability to stand fast on the Word of God even when your victory seems slow in coming.
Patience is not automatic. It won't go to work unless you let it go to work. So many people don't understand that. They somehow think
faith and patience will go to work for them without their help. They just let the devil tear their lives apart and then they say silly things like, "Well, I guess God sent that trial to strengthen my faith."
Don't you ever get caught saying that!
In the first place, James says, "Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God" (James 1:13). And in the second place, that trial isn't going to make your faith stronger. In fact, it'll destroy it if you'll let it.
SCRIPTURE READING: Genesis 26:15-22
bibleshack
"But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing."
I talk a lot about faith. But there's another force that goes along with it that's just as important. It's patience, the ability to stand fast on the Word of God even when your victory seems slow in coming.
Patience is not automatic. It won't go to work unless you let it go to work. So many people don't understand that. They somehow think
faith and patience will go to work for them without their help. They just let the devil tear their lives apart and then they say silly things like, "Well, I guess God sent that trial to strengthen my faith."
Don't you ever get caught saying that!
In the first place, James says, "Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God" (James 1:13). And in the second place, that trial isn't going to make your faith stronger. In fact, it'll destroy it if you'll let it.
SCRIPTURE READING: Genesis 26:15-22
bibleshack
Friday, October 25, 2002
An Angry Rejection
By Dena J. Dyer
Keep building relationships, and initiating new ones, even when people reject you. Most of all, keep praying, and keep encouraging one another.
Rejection-we've all experienced it. Sometimes it seems to roll off our backs, and other times it feels as if a knife just pierced our vital organs.
Maybe you've been rejected by a friend, co-worker, or even a family member. As a freelance writer, I experience rejection on a weekly (if not daily!) basis.
Major discouragement set in for me not long ago when three of my favorite publishers rejected my non-fiction book proposal in one week. Two out of the 3 editors said it wasn't "strong enough" to compete in the "already flooded market." (Ouch!)
But then God gave me a gift -- a passage from Eugene Peterson's "The Message," just when I needed it.
I read this, from I Thessalonians 5:
"God didn't set us up for an angry rejection but for salvation by our Master, Jesus Christ . . . So speak [or write!] encouraging words to one another. Build up hope, so you'll all be together in this . . . Be cheerful no matter what; pray all the time; thank God no matter what happens . . .The One who called you is completely dependable. If He said it, He'll do it!"
So, dear friends, keep following Christ -- even when it hurts. Keep building relationships, and initiating new ones, even when people reject you. Most of all, keep praying, and keep encouraging one another.
God is up to great things behind the scenes. And guess what? He's the only person we need to please.
Lord, help me remember that You never reject me. Thank you for even the rejection I feel at times, for it reminds me that You are the only person whose opinion ultimately matters.
Copyright 2002, by Dena J. Dyer. Used by permission.
cbn
By Dena J. Dyer
Keep building relationships, and initiating new ones, even when people reject you. Most of all, keep praying, and keep encouraging one another.
Rejection-we've all experienced it. Sometimes it seems to roll off our backs, and other times it feels as if a knife just pierced our vital organs.
Maybe you've been rejected by a friend, co-worker, or even a family member. As a freelance writer, I experience rejection on a weekly (if not daily!) basis.
Major discouragement set in for me not long ago when three of my favorite publishers rejected my non-fiction book proposal in one week. Two out of the 3 editors said it wasn't "strong enough" to compete in the "already flooded market." (Ouch!)
But then God gave me a gift -- a passage from Eugene Peterson's "The Message," just when I needed it.
I read this, from I Thessalonians 5:
"God didn't set us up for an angry rejection but for salvation by our Master, Jesus Christ . . . So speak [or write!] encouraging words to one another. Build up hope, so you'll all be together in this . . . Be cheerful no matter what; pray all the time; thank God no matter what happens . . .The One who called you is completely dependable. If He said it, He'll do it!"
So, dear friends, keep following Christ -- even when it hurts. Keep building relationships, and initiating new ones, even when people reject you. Most of all, keep praying, and keep encouraging one another.
God is up to great things behind the scenes. And guess what? He's the only person we need to please.
Lord, help me remember that You never reject me. Thank you for even the rejection I feel at times, for it reminds me that You are the only person whose opinion ultimately matters.
Copyright 2002, by Dena J. Dyer. Used by permission.
cbn
Thursday, October 24, 2002
Through His Eyes
By Barbara Cuffee
It’s amazing how we view life experiences that cause us pain or discomfort as negative forces at work. But if we were to view them through His eyes, we would see a different picture.
Recently I had the opportunity to do just that with the death of my mother.
I remember when I first heard the doctors’ report, I prayed, binding the enemy who came to steal life from her body, and loosening God’s power to heal and restore her. I never stopped to ask God, "What is your desire in this situation?"
Then one day I went to visit my mom at the hospital and spent two hours listening to her talk to Jesus. Not once did she open her eyes to even see that I was there, yet I witnessed my mother’s conversation with Jesus as He gave her a glimpse of Heaven! She began to ask, "Where am I now Jesus?" as her face beamed with excitement.
"Jesus, I need a little more air," I heard her say as she was struggling to receive oxygen. And then, "That’s it, a little more. OK, thank you, Jesus."
Another time she said, "Jesus, my feet are cold. I need some more cover." Again she voiced, "That’s it. Thank you, Jesus." At that moment I looked to see if the cover moved.
The Lord quickened in my spirit Philippians 4:19: "But my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus" (KJV).
The next day my mom was a new person, sitting up in bed and eating, doing all the things she hadn’t done the day before.
In the days that followed, my mother’s health worsened. I began to ask God, "What is Your desire for her?" For the first time I had peace in saying, "God, may Your will be done in her life." I was able to say, "Lord, take her home," rather than watch her suffer, because God had given me a glimpse of the joy she had in Him.
As I have learned, we must always view every situation through God’s eyes to see the true picture.
cbn
By Barbara Cuffee
It’s amazing how we view life experiences that cause us pain or discomfort as negative forces at work. But if we were to view them through His eyes, we would see a different picture.
Recently I had the opportunity to do just that with the death of my mother.
I remember when I first heard the doctors’ report, I prayed, binding the enemy who came to steal life from her body, and loosening God’s power to heal and restore her. I never stopped to ask God, "What is your desire in this situation?"
Then one day I went to visit my mom at the hospital and spent two hours listening to her talk to Jesus. Not once did she open her eyes to even see that I was there, yet I witnessed my mother’s conversation with Jesus as He gave her a glimpse of Heaven! She began to ask, "Where am I now Jesus?" as her face beamed with excitement.
"Jesus, I need a little more air," I heard her say as she was struggling to receive oxygen. And then, "That’s it, a little more. OK, thank you, Jesus."
Another time she said, "Jesus, my feet are cold. I need some more cover." Again she voiced, "That’s it. Thank you, Jesus." At that moment I looked to see if the cover moved.
The Lord quickened in my spirit Philippians 4:19: "But my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus" (KJV).
The next day my mom was a new person, sitting up in bed and eating, doing all the things she hadn’t done the day before.
In the days that followed, my mother’s health worsened. I began to ask God, "What is Your desire for her?" For the first time I had peace in saying, "God, may Your will be done in her life." I was able to say, "Lord, take her home," rather than watch her suffer, because God had given me a glimpse of the joy she had in Him.
As I have learned, we must always view every situation through God’s eyes to see the true picture.
cbn
Wednesday, October 23, 2002
The Pain of Rebellion
READ: Isaiah 1:1-20
Why should you be beaten anymore? Why do you persist in rebellion? Your whole head is injured, your whole heart afflicted
Headaches are a pain. Medical researchers now believe most headache pain is caused by “triggers”—foods and other factors that affect the brain’s chemistry. You must eliminate the triggers to stop the ache.
Chapter 1 of Isaiah describes another painful problem. God condemned the people of Israel for their constant rebellion that stemmed from their corrupted thoughts. They desired anything and everything except God. They were so ungrateful and unruly that their behavior is described as worse than the ways of oxen and donkeys (v.3).
The problem of rebellion cost the people of Israel big-time. God’s judgment on them included letting their enemies defeat and steal from them, and in rejecting their prayers and offerings. What a pathetic situation—when your prayers to God aren’t heard and your situation isn’t changed for the better!
If we as believers are not careful, we may find ourselves in a similar condition. It’s easy to become rebellious, stubborn, or strong-willed in wanting our own way. We find it hard to submit to authority, accept the truth (especially when it hurts), and appreciate the good intentions of the person who is teaching or correcting us. Like ancient Israel, we may fail to submit to God’s authority (who He is), value His righteousness and truth (what He says), and accept His good intention behind His instructions (why He says it).
Since rebellion is triggered by corrupted thoughts and desires, the only way we can avoid it is to have our minds and hearts renewed (Romans 12:2). Our own thinking and desires must be transformed by the truth of Christ. Only then will we be willing to change our wrong conduct and avoid the danger of stubbornness.
With our minds renewed, we can distinguish truth from error and avoid rebellion. Only Christ’s transforming work can remove the pain of a corrupted mind and stubborn heart. —Chien Chong
REFLECTION
• In what ways am I rebellious?
• From today’s reading in Isaiah, what specific steps can I take to grow to be more teachable?
Rebellion takes root when we forsake truth.
campus journal
READ: Isaiah 1:1-20
Why should you be beaten anymore? Why do you persist in rebellion? Your whole head is injured, your whole heart afflicted
Headaches are a pain. Medical researchers now believe most headache pain is caused by “triggers”—foods and other factors that affect the brain’s chemistry. You must eliminate the triggers to stop the ache.
Chapter 1 of Isaiah describes another painful problem. God condemned the people of Israel for their constant rebellion that stemmed from their corrupted thoughts. They desired anything and everything except God. They were so ungrateful and unruly that their behavior is described as worse than the ways of oxen and donkeys (v.3).
The problem of rebellion cost the people of Israel big-time. God’s judgment on them included letting their enemies defeat and steal from them, and in rejecting their prayers and offerings. What a pathetic situation—when your prayers to God aren’t heard and your situation isn’t changed for the better!
If we as believers are not careful, we may find ourselves in a similar condition. It’s easy to become rebellious, stubborn, or strong-willed in wanting our own way. We find it hard to submit to authority, accept the truth (especially when it hurts), and appreciate the good intentions of the person who is teaching or correcting us. Like ancient Israel, we may fail to submit to God’s authority (who He is), value His righteousness and truth (what He says), and accept His good intention behind His instructions (why He says it).
Since rebellion is triggered by corrupted thoughts and desires, the only way we can avoid it is to have our minds and hearts renewed (Romans 12:2). Our own thinking and desires must be transformed by the truth of Christ. Only then will we be willing to change our wrong conduct and avoid the danger of stubbornness.
With our minds renewed, we can distinguish truth from error and avoid rebellion. Only Christ’s transforming work can remove the pain of a corrupted mind and stubborn heart. —Chien Chong
REFLECTION
• In what ways am I rebellious?
• From today’s reading in Isaiah, what specific steps can I take to grow to be more teachable?
Rebellion takes root when we forsake truth.
campus journal
Tuesday, October 22, 2002
The Power of Suffering
STEPHEN IS DEAD. When he is buried, the people mourn deeply. The church has experienced the tragedy of her first martyr. In this study we meet Philip and Saul. Saul approves of Stephen's death. He is putting all his energy into destroying the rest of Jesus' followers. In contrast, Philip is one of the seven, full of the Spirit and wisdom. His energy goes into the proclamation of the truth about Jesus. People respond. And so both the persecution and the expansion of the church continue.
Warming Up to God
Has there been a time recently that you were confused about God's intentions behind the events that he placed in your life? Ask him to give you his understanding and peace.
Read Acts 8.
Discovering the Word
1. In this passage the command to be witnesses in all of Judea and Samaria (Ac 1:8) is fulfilled. What are the causes and extent of the spread of the gospel at this time?
2. Look at the story of Simon the Sorcerer (vv. 9-25). How does he attempt to get spiritual power? What is his motivation for wanting this power (vv. 18-19)?
3. In contrast, what is God's way for his people to receive spiritual power (vv. 20-23)?
4. What are the factors involved in the eunuch's coming to know the Lord (vv. 26-39)?
5. How was Philip's ministry to the eunuch the beginning of the witness "to the ends of the earth" (Ac 1:8)?
Applying the Word
1. The story of Simon the Sorcerer demonstrates that becoming a Christian does not instantly resolve all problems and character flaws. What do you learn from Peter concerning nurturing young believers?
2. What principles of evangelism have you observed throughout this passage?
3. What have you learned from Acts 8 that might make you a more effective witness for Jesus?
Responding in Prayer
• Ask God for the guidance of his Holy Spirit, and ask him to help you follow the model of evangelism that Philip provides.
inter varsity press
STEPHEN IS DEAD. When he is buried, the people mourn deeply. The church has experienced the tragedy of her first martyr. In this study we meet Philip and Saul. Saul approves of Stephen's death. He is putting all his energy into destroying the rest of Jesus' followers. In contrast, Philip is one of the seven, full of the Spirit and wisdom. His energy goes into the proclamation of the truth about Jesus. People respond. And so both the persecution and the expansion of the church continue.
Warming Up to God
Has there been a time recently that you were confused about God's intentions behind the events that he placed in your life? Ask him to give you his understanding and peace.
Read Acts 8.
Discovering the Word
1. In this passage the command to be witnesses in all of Judea and Samaria (Ac 1:8) is fulfilled. What are the causes and extent of the spread of the gospel at this time?
2. Look at the story of Simon the Sorcerer (vv. 9-25). How does he attempt to get spiritual power? What is his motivation for wanting this power (vv. 18-19)?
3. In contrast, what is God's way for his people to receive spiritual power (vv. 20-23)?
4. What are the factors involved in the eunuch's coming to know the Lord (vv. 26-39)?
5. How was Philip's ministry to the eunuch the beginning of the witness "to the ends of the earth" (Ac 1:8)?
Applying the Word
1. The story of Simon the Sorcerer demonstrates that becoming a Christian does not instantly resolve all problems and character flaws. What do you learn from Peter concerning nurturing young believers?
2. What principles of evangelism have you observed throughout this passage?
3. What have you learned from Acts 8 that might make you a more effective witness for Jesus?
Responding in Prayer
• Ask God for the guidance of his Holy Spirit, and ask him to help you follow the model of evangelism that Philip provides.
inter varsity press
Monday, October 21, 2002
Weak And Wise
Read: Psalm 62
The rock badgers are a feeble folk, yet they make their homes in the crags. —Proverbs 30:26
Bible scholars have difficulty identifying the "badger" mentioned in Proverbs 30. Many believe it is the same animal as the Syrian hyrax. If this is so, then God is calling our attention to an unusual little creature.
The hyrax is about the size of a large guinea pig but is not closely linked to any other known animal. It looks like a rodent and has been characterized as a "rock rabbit." It is extremely vulnerable to attack from its predators. Among its enemies are snakes, eagles, buzzards, leopards, dogs, and other small beasts of prey such as the mongoose.
So how does this little fellow manage to survive? The answer is simple. It makes its home in holes or clefts of the rock, frequently along the side of a steep cliff.
We are a lot like the hyrax. We are susceptible to many dangers. Disease, depression, temptation, war, accident, and isolation threaten us constantly. If only we could find a way to survive like that little creature! Well, we can. We too have a Rock in which to hide—the Lord God Himself (Psalm 62:2). Trusting Him doesn't exempt us from life's troubles, but it does give protection to our soul.
It's not bad to be weak—if we are wise enough to take refuge in God. —Mart De Haan II
O safe to the Rock that is higher than I
My soul in its conflicts and sorrows would fly;
So sinful, so weary—Thine, Thine would I be:
Thou blest "Rock of Ages," I'm hiding in Thee. —Cushing
Are you between a rock and a hard place? Take refuge in the Rock of Ages.
daily bread
Read: Psalm 62
The rock badgers are a feeble folk, yet they make their homes in the crags. —Proverbs 30:26
Bible scholars have difficulty identifying the "badger" mentioned in Proverbs 30. Many believe it is the same animal as the Syrian hyrax. If this is so, then God is calling our attention to an unusual little creature.
The hyrax is about the size of a large guinea pig but is not closely linked to any other known animal. It looks like a rodent and has been characterized as a "rock rabbit." It is extremely vulnerable to attack from its predators. Among its enemies are snakes, eagles, buzzards, leopards, dogs, and other small beasts of prey such as the mongoose.
So how does this little fellow manage to survive? The answer is simple. It makes its home in holes or clefts of the rock, frequently along the side of a steep cliff.
We are a lot like the hyrax. We are susceptible to many dangers. Disease, depression, temptation, war, accident, and isolation threaten us constantly. If only we could find a way to survive like that little creature! Well, we can. We too have a Rock in which to hide—the Lord God Himself (Psalm 62:2). Trusting Him doesn't exempt us from life's troubles, but it does give protection to our soul.
It's not bad to be weak—if we are wise enough to take refuge in God. —Mart De Haan II
O safe to the Rock that is higher than I
My soul in its conflicts and sorrows would fly;
So sinful, so weary—Thine, Thine would I be:
Thou blest "Rock of Ages," I'm hiding in Thee. —Cushing
Are you between a rock and a hard place? Take refuge in the Rock of Ages.
daily bread
Sunday, October 20, 2002
Test The Teachers
Read: Proverbs 30:1-6
Whatever I command you, be careful to observe it; you shall not add to it nor take away from it. —Deuteronomy 12:32
Revelation. To some people, it's more than just the name of the last book of the Bible. To some self-promoting preachers, revelation is something God personally gives to them. In most cases, however, what they say God has given them contradicts His teachings in the Bible.
Have you ever been exposed to those who claim to have had a special "revelation" or "word" from God? If so, be careful. Unless what a person proclaims as truth can be verified by the clear teaching of the Bible, it is personal opinion at best and heresy at worst—not divine revelation.
The Scriptures warn us not to add to nor take away from what God has revealed to us in His written Word. Deuteronomy 4:2 tells us, "You shall not add to the word which I command you, nor take from it." Similar warnings are found in Deuteronomy 12:32, Proverbs 30:5-6, and Revelation 22:18. It is indeed a precarious position for a person to put himself in—claiming to add to God's inspired Book.
If someone attempts to teach a doctrine not found in the Bible, beware—no matter how polished and well-known the person is. Test the teachers you hear by God's Word. If they talk of receiving a revelation, make sure they aren't violating God's clear warnings. —Dave Branon
God's Word must verify the truth
Of what is wrong and what is right,
And test what seems so real to me
Of feelings, sense, and sight. —D. De Haan
Test all teaching by the truth of God's Word.
daily bread
Read: Proverbs 30:1-6
Whatever I command you, be careful to observe it; you shall not add to it nor take away from it. —Deuteronomy 12:32
Revelation. To some people, it's more than just the name of the last book of the Bible. To some self-promoting preachers, revelation is something God personally gives to them. In most cases, however, what they say God has given them contradicts His teachings in the Bible.
Have you ever been exposed to those who claim to have had a special "revelation" or "word" from God? If so, be careful. Unless what a person proclaims as truth can be verified by the clear teaching of the Bible, it is personal opinion at best and heresy at worst—not divine revelation.
The Scriptures warn us not to add to nor take away from what God has revealed to us in His written Word. Deuteronomy 4:2 tells us, "You shall not add to the word which I command you, nor take from it." Similar warnings are found in Deuteronomy 12:32, Proverbs 30:5-6, and Revelation 22:18. It is indeed a precarious position for a person to put himself in—claiming to add to God's inspired Book.
If someone attempts to teach a doctrine not found in the Bible, beware—no matter how polished and well-known the person is. Test the teachers you hear by God's Word. If they talk of receiving a revelation, make sure they aren't violating God's clear warnings. —Dave Branon
God's Word must verify the truth
Of what is wrong and what is right,
And test what seems so real to me
Of feelings, sense, and sight. —D. De Haan
Test all teaching by the truth of God's Word.
daily bread
Saturday, October 19, 2002
We All Believe in One True God"
By Dr. Martin Luther, 1483-1546
Inspiration from one of Luther's classic hymns.
Protestant Channel-Christianity.com
1. We all believe in one true God,
Who created earth and heaven,
The Father, who to us in love
Hath the right of children given.
He both soul and body feedeth,
All we need He doth provide us;
He through snares and perils leadeth,
Watching that no harm betide us.
He careth for us day and night,
All things are governed by His might.
2. We all believe in Jesus Christ,
His own Son, our Lord, possessing
An equal Godhead, throne, and might,
Source of every grace and blessing.
Born of Mary, virgin mother,
By the power of the Spirit,
Made true man, our elder Brother,
That the lost might life inherit;
Was crucified for sinful men
And raised by God to life again.
3. We all confess the Holy Ghost,
Who sweet grace and comfort giveth
And with the Father and the Son
In eternal glory liveth;
Who the Church, His own creation,
Keeps in unity of spirit.
Here forgiveness and salvation
Daily come through Jesus' merit.
All flesh shall rise, and we shall be
In bliss with God eternally. Amen.
From: THE HANDBOOK TO THE LUTHERAN HYMNAL
Text: Nicene Creed
This text was converted to ascii format for Project Wittenberg by Cindy A. Beesley and is in the public domain.
cbn
By Dr. Martin Luther, 1483-1546
Inspiration from one of Luther's classic hymns.
Protestant Channel-Christianity.com
1. We all believe in one true God,
Who created earth and heaven,
The Father, who to us in love
Hath the right of children given.
He both soul and body feedeth,
All we need He doth provide us;
He through snares and perils leadeth,
Watching that no harm betide us.
He careth for us day and night,
All things are governed by His might.
2. We all believe in Jesus Christ,
His own Son, our Lord, possessing
An equal Godhead, throne, and might,
Source of every grace and blessing.
Born of Mary, virgin mother,
By the power of the Spirit,
Made true man, our elder Brother,
That the lost might life inherit;
Was crucified for sinful men
And raised by God to life again.
3. We all confess the Holy Ghost,
Who sweet grace and comfort giveth
And with the Father and the Son
In eternal glory liveth;
Who the Church, His own creation,
Keeps in unity of spirit.
Here forgiveness and salvation
Daily come through Jesus' merit.
All flesh shall rise, and we shall be
In bliss with God eternally. Amen.
From: THE HANDBOOK TO THE LUTHERAN HYMNAL
Text: Nicene Creed
This text was converted to ascii format for Project Wittenberg by Cindy A. Beesley and is in the public domain.
cbn
Friday, October 18, 2002
Getting Unplugged: Entering His Rest
By Scott Ross
Scott Ross provides wisdom from the Bible about resting in the Lord.
"This is the time and place to rest, to give rest to the weary. This is the place to lay down your burden" (Isaiah 28:12, The Message).
What is rest? Rest isn't just a place. In Hebrew, the word for rest is "menuchah", which means resting place, place of stillness, repose, consolation, peace, the condition of restfulness, to settle down. Rest is also an attitude and an internal posture. But ultimately, rest is more than that. Rest is a person -- the Person of Jesus Himself.
Abiding in the Vine (John 15)
In 1974 I went through a period of burnout. I almost left my family and the work of the ministry. When you are tired or stressed out, your judgment is affected. Molehills become mountains.
The Lord "spoke" to me and said: "I rested, what is wrong with you?"
So I began to take a day off every week. I took my vacations and long weekends. After practicing this for a period of time, I noticed a measurable difference physically and mentally.
And then the Lord indicated to me that my wife, Nedra, needed rest, too. A woman’s work is never done: a housewife makes beds to be unmade, she washes dishes to be dirtied, she cleans the house to be dirtied, and she raises children to leave home.
A day off for Nedra -- that would affect the entire church.
"Monthly conferences, special meetings – meetings, meetings, meetings, meetings – I can’t stand one more! Meetings for this, meetings for that. You’ve worn me out!" (Isaiah 1:13-14, The Message).
We cut out a number of weekly meetings and moved our Sunday morning church meeting to Sunday evening so that people could rest and play with their families and friends.
But God also says through Isaiah, "They wouldn’t listen!" Case in point: My friend Jim had a heart attack in his early 40s. He was a pastor and burned out, too. The Lord appeared to Jim while he was in a coma and said, "I am now collecting from you all the Sabbaths you owe Me!" Jim repented and the Lord healed him.
Follow Jesus' Example: Enter His Rest!
Psalm 23:2 tells us, "He leads me beside the waters of menuchah – He leads me beside the waters of quietness." And in Mark 6:12, Jesus said, " 'Let’s get away from the crowds for a while and rest.' There were so many people coming and going that Jesus and His apostles didn’t even have time to eat. They left for a quieter spot" (The Book).
We need to take time out to pray so that we don't get fatigued, overworked, depressed, and anxious. And then we need to listen to God. If we don't listen, if we don't take that rest, we are liable to die prematurely.
Let's not wait until we have compromised our health. Let's instead embrace Hebrews 4:9-11, which says, "So there is a special rest still waiting for the people of God. For all who enter into God’s rest will find rest from their labors, just as God rested after creating the world. Let us do our best to enter that place of rest" (The Book).
cbn
By Scott Ross
Scott Ross provides wisdom from the Bible about resting in the Lord.
"This is the time and place to rest, to give rest to the weary. This is the place to lay down your burden" (Isaiah 28:12, The Message).
What is rest? Rest isn't just a place. In Hebrew, the word for rest is "menuchah", which means resting place, place of stillness, repose, consolation, peace, the condition of restfulness, to settle down. Rest is also an attitude and an internal posture. But ultimately, rest is more than that. Rest is a person -- the Person of Jesus Himself.
Abiding in the Vine (John 15)
In 1974 I went through a period of burnout. I almost left my family and the work of the ministry. When you are tired or stressed out, your judgment is affected. Molehills become mountains.
The Lord "spoke" to me and said: "I rested, what is wrong with you?"
So I began to take a day off every week. I took my vacations and long weekends. After practicing this for a period of time, I noticed a measurable difference physically and mentally.
And then the Lord indicated to me that my wife, Nedra, needed rest, too. A woman’s work is never done: a housewife makes beds to be unmade, she washes dishes to be dirtied, she cleans the house to be dirtied, and she raises children to leave home.
A day off for Nedra -- that would affect the entire church.
"Monthly conferences, special meetings – meetings, meetings, meetings, meetings – I can’t stand one more! Meetings for this, meetings for that. You’ve worn me out!" (Isaiah 1:13-14, The Message).
We cut out a number of weekly meetings and moved our Sunday morning church meeting to Sunday evening so that people could rest and play with their families and friends.
But God also says through Isaiah, "They wouldn’t listen!" Case in point: My friend Jim had a heart attack in his early 40s. He was a pastor and burned out, too. The Lord appeared to Jim while he was in a coma and said, "I am now collecting from you all the Sabbaths you owe Me!" Jim repented and the Lord healed him.
Follow Jesus' Example: Enter His Rest!
Psalm 23:2 tells us, "He leads me beside the waters of menuchah – He leads me beside the waters of quietness." And in Mark 6:12, Jesus said, " 'Let’s get away from the crowds for a while and rest.' There were so many people coming and going that Jesus and His apostles didn’t even have time to eat. They left for a quieter spot" (The Book).
We need to take time out to pray so that we don't get fatigued, overworked, depressed, and anxious. And then we need to listen to God. If we don't listen, if we don't take that rest, we are liable to die prematurely.
Let's not wait until we have compromised our health. Let's instead embrace Hebrews 4:9-11, which says, "So there is a special rest still waiting for the people of God. For all who enter into God’s rest will find rest from their labors, just as God rested after creating the world. Let us do our best to enter that place of rest" (The Book).
cbn
Thursday, October 17, 2002
Opportunities
By Steven Halter
God showed me a number of things that I could do during the time my family was away. I didn't need to feel lonely and spend my time lazily about the house.
A while back my family was able to go on a long-awaited vacation. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to go with them, because circumstances prevented me from going. Still, it would be a blessing for them to go because my wife would be able to see her family, and her parents would be able to see their daughter and granddaughter. When the time came for them to go to the airport, I took my wife and daughter there to see them off, and I didn't leave until their plane had left my sight.
Later, when I got home from work, our home seemed very different. It was strangely quiet and empty … I was alone.
Or was I?
You see, God was right there with me. Jesus promised that He would not leave His followers alone, but would send them the Holy Spirit.
"And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever--the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you" (John 14: 16-17).
So I really wasn't alone. The Spirit was there with me, ready to encourage and strengthen me.
Perhaps you are in a similar situation. Your spouse may have gone on a business trip. Your children may have gone off to college. Your loved ones may have passed on or moved away. Whatever the case may be, remember that God is with you. The Holy Spirit is there to comfort you, uphold you, and strengthen you. He will never leave you or forsake you. You will never be alone.
While my family was away on the trip, I experienced the hand of God in another way. For though I wasn't able to go away with my family, God was able to bring something good out of a bad situation. God is wonderful and masterful at doing that.
"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose" (Romans 8:28).
What God did is that He redeemed the time. God showed me a number of things that I could do during the time my family was away. I didn't need to feel lonely and spend my time lazily about the house. There were many ways that He could make this both an enjoyable and productive time for me.
If you are experiencing an occasion when loved ones are away and you have extra time on your hands, there are a number of ways that God can bless you too during this period. But you have to let Him bless you, and you need to work along with Him.
First, remember that you are not alone. God loves you, and He is with you in the person of the Holy Spirit. He will never leave you or forsake you. He is there to counsel you, to comfort you, to strengthen you, and to help you grow spiritually.
Next, make this an occasion to strengthen your personal devotions with the Lord. Spend more time reading and studying the Bible. Reflect on what you read and let God show you how it applies to your life. Let this be a time of refreshing and revitalizing for your soul. Worship God and allow the Spirit to fill you afresh.
In addition to being blessed yourself, let God speak to you about how you can be a blessing to others. Use your talents and gifts in service to His kingdom. However God has gifted you, be faithful in putting those gifts to work. Even if you feel that it is a small gift, you may be amazed at how significant it can be to others.
"Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers" (Galatians 6:10).
Next, the greatest opportunity of all, during this time or any time, is to share with others the good news concerning the new life that is available through Jesus Christ. Let God lead you and empower you by the Spirit that is in you, so you can proclaim to others how great and wonderful our Savior is. Give them an occasion to believe on Jesus and receive eternal life.
"Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity" (Colossians 4:5).
Yes, we will have times when loved ones and friends are away from us. On those occasions when you are in this position, you can make the most of the time available. Whether you have a great amount of time on your hands or just a little, let God redeem it. Take the opportunity to draw closer to God. Let Him renew and refresh you. Then go out with the strength of God and be a blessing to others. As you allow Him to lead you in the right direction, He will be there with you to make the most of all of your opportunities
cbn
By Steven Halter
God showed me a number of things that I could do during the time my family was away. I didn't need to feel lonely and spend my time lazily about the house.
A while back my family was able to go on a long-awaited vacation. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to go with them, because circumstances prevented me from going. Still, it would be a blessing for them to go because my wife would be able to see her family, and her parents would be able to see their daughter and granddaughter. When the time came for them to go to the airport, I took my wife and daughter there to see them off, and I didn't leave until their plane had left my sight.
Later, when I got home from work, our home seemed very different. It was strangely quiet and empty … I was alone.
Or was I?
You see, God was right there with me. Jesus promised that He would not leave His followers alone, but would send them the Holy Spirit.
"And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever--the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you" (John 14: 16-17).
So I really wasn't alone. The Spirit was there with me, ready to encourage and strengthen me.
Perhaps you are in a similar situation. Your spouse may have gone on a business trip. Your children may have gone off to college. Your loved ones may have passed on or moved away. Whatever the case may be, remember that God is with you. The Holy Spirit is there to comfort you, uphold you, and strengthen you. He will never leave you or forsake you. You will never be alone.
While my family was away on the trip, I experienced the hand of God in another way. For though I wasn't able to go away with my family, God was able to bring something good out of a bad situation. God is wonderful and masterful at doing that.
"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose" (Romans 8:28).
What God did is that He redeemed the time. God showed me a number of things that I could do during the time my family was away. I didn't need to feel lonely and spend my time lazily about the house. There were many ways that He could make this both an enjoyable and productive time for me.
If you are experiencing an occasion when loved ones are away and you have extra time on your hands, there are a number of ways that God can bless you too during this period. But you have to let Him bless you, and you need to work along with Him.
First, remember that you are not alone. God loves you, and He is with you in the person of the Holy Spirit. He will never leave you or forsake you. He is there to counsel you, to comfort you, to strengthen you, and to help you grow spiritually.
Next, make this an occasion to strengthen your personal devotions with the Lord. Spend more time reading and studying the Bible. Reflect on what you read and let God show you how it applies to your life. Let this be a time of refreshing and revitalizing for your soul. Worship God and allow the Spirit to fill you afresh.
In addition to being blessed yourself, let God speak to you about how you can be a blessing to others. Use your talents and gifts in service to His kingdom. However God has gifted you, be faithful in putting those gifts to work. Even if you feel that it is a small gift, you may be amazed at how significant it can be to others.
"Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers" (Galatians 6:10).
Next, the greatest opportunity of all, during this time or any time, is to share with others the good news concerning the new life that is available through Jesus Christ. Let God lead you and empower you by the Spirit that is in you, so you can proclaim to others how great and wonderful our Savior is. Give them an occasion to believe on Jesus and receive eternal life.
"Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity" (Colossians 4:5).
Yes, we will have times when loved ones and friends are away from us. On those occasions when you are in this position, you can make the most of the time available. Whether you have a great amount of time on your hands or just a little, let God redeem it. Take the opportunity to draw closer to God. Let Him renew and refresh you. Then go out with the strength of God and be a blessing to others. As you allow Him to lead you in the right direction, He will be there with you to make the most of all of your opportunities
cbn
Wednesday, October 16, 2002
The Light That Dispels All Darkness
By Marsha B. Smith
Surely any darkness we are walking through will turn to light as we embrace Him and His Word.
I remember as a child, after I said my prayers, I would ask Mama to leave the light on until I fell asleep. There was something comforting about that light, for when the light was on, I could see and was not afraid. There was a wonderful security in the light to me as a small child, for it dispelled the darkness.
Now that I am grown, I still find warmth inside whenever I see a porch light on or a light in a window. As a writer, whenever I see a light, for some reason I feel closer home. As a teenager, I used to love to hear Mama say, "We will leave the porch light on for you." And to this day, whenever I visit Mama and Dad, I see that porch light burning bright and I know I am home.
As Christians, we know that there is an eternal light that will always shine brightly for us through the darkness. We never have to be afraid for our light is Jesus.
"The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?" (Psalm 27:1). David, who wrote that, knew all about fear, for he faced a giant. He faced many struggles and heartache, but he knew about The Light of God.
There is something about the morning when the darkness has been overcome by the light, something of brilliance and majesty in the sunrise. I like to think it is another of God’s reminders of His love.
"This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all" (I John 1:5).
Many times in our lives we feel overcome by the darkness as we deal with sickness, grief, loneliness and pain. At times it seems to almost overcome us and threaten to swallow us up. But all we have to do is call on Him, on His name, the name of Jesus; and in His light the darkness flees. We are bathed in the light of His love.
So regardless of what you are walking through, remember this:
"We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your heart" (2 Peter 1:19).
Jesus lives in our hearts. He is our Day Star and our light of love. He will always be our light. We will walk on, for surely any darkness we are walking through will turn to light as we embrace Him and His Word.
And we have no need to fear the future, for His word tells us that "there shall be no night there: and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever" (Revelation 22:5).
Sometimes in prayer during those times when I feel overcome by circumstances, I can hear Him say, " Fear not, My Child. I am with you, and my light goes before you. I will always leave the light on for you, my precious Child. It will light the way for you now on earth and someday lead you back home to Me."
cbn
By Marsha B. Smith
Surely any darkness we are walking through will turn to light as we embrace Him and His Word.
I remember as a child, after I said my prayers, I would ask Mama to leave the light on until I fell asleep. There was something comforting about that light, for when the light was on, I could see and was not afraid. There was a wonderful security in the light to me as a small child, for it dispelled the darkness.
Now that I am grown, I still find warmth inside whenever I see a porch light on or a light in a window. As a writer, whenever I see a light, for some reason I feel closer home. As a teenager, I used to love to hear Mama say, "We will leave the porch light on for you." And to this day, whenever I visit Mama and Dad, I see that porch light burning bright and I know I am home.
As Christians, we know that there is an eternal light that will always shine brightly for us through the darkness. We never have to be afraid for our light is Jesus.
"The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?" (Psalm 27:1). David, who wrote that, knew all about fear, for he faced a giant. He faced many struggles and heartache, but he knew about The Light of God.
There is something about the morning when the darkness has been overcome by the light, something of brilliance and majesty in the sunrise. I like to think it is another of God’s reminders of His love.
"This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all" (I John 1:5).
Many times in our lives we feel overcome by the darkness as we deal with sickness, grief, loneliness and pain. At times it seems to almost overcome us and threaten to swallow us up. But all we have to do is call on Him, on His name, the name of Jesus; and in His light the darkness flees. We are bathed in the light of His love.
So regardless of what you are walking through, remember this:
"We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your heart" (2 Peter 1:19).
Jesus lives in our hearts. He is our Day Star and our light of love. He will always be our light. We will walk on, for surely any darkness we are walking through will turn to light as we embrace Him and His Word.
And we have no need to fear the future, for His word tells us that "there shall be no night there: and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever" (Revelation 22:5).
Sometimes in prayer during those times when I feel overcome by circumstances, I can hear Him say, " Fear not, My Child. I am with you, and my light goes before you. I will always leave the light on for you, my precious Child. It will light the way for you now on earth and someday lead you back home to Me."
cbn
Tuesday, October 15, 2002
The Race Of Life
By Cathy Irvin
We are racing towards our DESTINY. We need to focus on that last mile because heaven awaits us.
How long do you think a NASCAR driver would travel on a racetrack without oil in his engine or water in his radiator? We are in a race to win the crown that awaits us at the end of life's journey. It is important to take along the necessary things to make it to the end.
Like the race car driver who needs oil and water to run his car, we need certain things too. We need the oil in our lamps. Oil is symbolic of the Holy Spirit in the New Testament. Water speaks of the washing of the Word to cleanse our minds and soul.
At that time the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom (Matthew 25:1 NIV).
...to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word... (Ephesians 5:26 NIV).
We may stumble or sometimes slow down but as long as we keep on going we will make it. No driver in a race goes back to the starting line. They need to stay focused on where they are heading especially during the last mile of the race. There is no going back and starting over. We must press toward the mark of that high calling in Christ Jesus.
I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus (Philippians 3:14).
The way to win is by PRESSING IN. Press into God by praying, daily reading and studying the Bible. Let the water of His Word wash you. This will keep you holy.
The oil of the Holy Spirit in your lamp will refresh you during the race. This is the anointing of God's presence in your life.
Yes, this is the only race that really counts. We are racing towards our DESTINY. We need to focus on that last mile because heaven awaits us. There we will meet Jesus Christ our Lord, the one who died for us. On your mark, get set, ready, GO!
cbn
By Cathy Irvin
We are racing towards our DESTINY. We need to focus on that last mile because heaven awaits us.
How long do you think a NASCAR driver would travel on a racetrack without oil in his engine or water in his radiator? We are in a race to win the crown that awaits us at the end of life's journey. It is important to take along the necessary things to make it to the end.
Like the race car driver who needs oil and water to run his car, we need certain things too. We need the oil in our lamps. Oil is symbolic of the Holy Spirit in the New Testament. Water speaks of the washing of the Word to cleanse our minds and soul.
At that time the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom (Matthew 25:1 NIV).
...to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word... (Ephesians 5:26 NIV).
We may stumble or sometimes slow down but as long as we keep on going we will make it. No driver in a race goes back to the starting line. They need to stay focused on where they are heading especially during the last mile of the race. There is no going back and starting over. We must press toward the mark of that high calling in Christ Jesus.
I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus (Philippians 3:14).
The way to win is by PRESSING IN. Press into God by praying, daily reading and studying the Bible. Let the water of His Word wash you. This will keep you holy.
The oil of the Holy Spirit in your lamp will refresh you during the race. This is the anointing of God's presence in your life.
Yes, this is the only race that really counts. We are racing towards our DESTINY. We need to focus on that last mile because heaven awaits us. There we will meet Jesus Christ our Lord, the one who died for us. On your mark, get set, ready, GO!
cbn
Monday, October 14, 2002
God Is Faithful
Read: Lamentations 3:1-24
His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness. —Lamentations 3:22-23
At the end of every year, I set aside some time to review the previous 12 months and record God's faithfulness to me and my family. I may leaf through a calendar, my appointment book, or prayer diary to jog my memory. Then, on a piece of paper labeled "God's Faithfulness" I'll write everything that comes to mind as evidence of God's love and care. It's a wonderful way to look back at the year and look forward to a fresh beginning.
My list will certainly include instances of God's grace and provision. But it will also chronicle God's presence during times of difficulty and disappointment. And it must include my failures and sins, which He has been "faithful and just" to forgive (1 John 1:9).
The prophet Jeremiah found that God's trustworthiness appeared as a light during the darkness of desperate circumstances. In his lament over the destruction of Jerusalem, Jeremiah wrote, "Through the Lord's mercies we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness" (Lamentations 3:22-23).
Today, why not take time to record God's faithfulness to you and thank Him for it. —David McCasland
Lord, help us bring to mind each day
Past blessings that You've sent our way;
And may these blessings from above
Remind us of Your faithful love. —D. De Haan
Adding up your blessings will multiply your joy.
daily bread
Read: Lamentations 3:1-24
His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness. —Lamentations 3:22-23
At the end of every year, I set aside some time to review the previous 12 months and record God's faithfulness to me and my family. I may leaf through a calendar, my appointment book, or prayer diary to jog my memory. Then, on a piece of paper labeled "God's Faithfulness" I'll write everything that comes to mind as evidence of God's love and care. It's a wonderful way to look back at the year and look forward to a fresh beginning.
My list will certainly include instances of God's grace and provision. But it will also chronicle God's presence during times of difficulty and disappointment. And it must include my failures and sins, which He has been "faithful and just" to forgive (1 John 1:9).
The prophet Jeremiah found that God's trustworthiness appeared as a light during the darkness of desperate circumstances. In his lament over the destruction of Jerusalem, Jeremiah wrote, "Through the Lord's mercies we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness" (Lamentations 3:22-23).
Today, why not take time to record God's faithfulness to you and thank Him for it. —David McCasland
Lord, help us bring to mind each day
Past blessings that You've sent our way;
And may these blessings from above
Remind us of Your faithful love. —D. De Haan
Adding up your blessings will multiply your joy.
daily bread
Sunday, October 13, 2002
Same Sun
READ: Isaiah 60:1-2
Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you.
Went on vacation last spring. Drove a thousand miles. Sat on the beach. Enjoyed the warmth of the sun as it shone down on a body that craved toasty temps. Loved every UV ray.
Got back in the van. Drove a thousand miles back home. No sun to be seen. Got out and nearly froze my toes off. Rushed to get inside—back to indoor warmth.
What exactly happened here? Was the sun missing when I left Michigan? Did I have to drive 1,000 miles to find it? Was it AWOL from the Wolverine State and present on the Gulf Coast? Why did the sun warm me on the beach and seem irrelevant in the north?
After all, it was the same sun—that huge source of all warmth. It was the same brilliant light in the sky. So why did I have to do all that driving just to feel its effects? Simply this: In Michigan, stuff got between the sun and me.
Nothing about the sun had changed. But because of my situation, I could enjoy the sun without the blockage from clouds, the discomfort of cold air fronts, and the rays coming in at a different angle.
Think about two Christians. Maybe you and a friend. The friend seems to bask in the warmth of God’s love, the comfort of God’s grace, and the hope of God’s promises. But sometimes you can’t feel the closeness of that same heavenly Father. What happened here? Was it God’s fault? Was He farther away from you than from your friend? Do you have two different Gods?
Of course not.
For a variety of reasons, you’ve allowed something to block God from having an impact on your life. Maybe it’s a cloud of sin. Maybe it’s the indifference of a cold heart. Perhaps you’ve allowed yourself to drift away.
Just as the sun is the same everywhere, yet it affects us differently because of where we are, so also God is the same for each of us. In your spiritual journey, you can find ways to remove the blockages by confessing your sins to Him (1 John 1:9). Let the warm light of His love shine on you today. Return to the glow of His affection. That’s way better than a day at the beach. —Dave Branon
REFLECTION
• Okay, I admit it. I’m the one who seems blocked from Jesus’ warm love. What is shutting me off from enjoying my Savior?
• How can I help a friend who seems under the cloud? What can I say to him?
Remove the Son-block and enjoy His warmth.
READ: Isaiah 60:1-2
Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you.
Went on vacation last spring. Drove a thousand miles. Sat on the beach. Enjoyed the warmth of the sun as it shone down on a body that craved toasty temps. Loved every UV ray.
Got back in the van. Drove a thousand miles back home. No sun to be seen. Got out and nearly froze my toes off. Rushed to get inside—back to indoor warmth.
What exactly happened here? Was the sun missing when I left Michigan? Did I have to drive 1,000 miles to find it? Was it AWOL from the Wolverine State and present on the Gulf Coast? Why did the sun warm me on the beach and seem irrelevant in the north?
After all, it was the same sun—that huge source of all warmth. It was the same brilliant light in the sky. So why did I have to do all that driving just to feel its effects? Simply this: In Michigan, stuff got between the sun and me.
Nothing about the sun had changed. But because of my situation, I could enjoy the sun without the blockage from clouds, the discomfort of cold air fronts, and the rays coming in at a different angle.
Think about two Christians. Maybe you and a friend. The friend seems to bask in the warmth of God’s love, the comfort of God’s grace, and the hope of God’s promises. But sometimes you can’t feel the closeness of that same heavenly Father. What happened here? Was it God’s fault? Was He farther away from you than from your friend? Do you have two different Gods?
Of course not.
For a variety of reasons, you’ve allowed something to block God from having an impact on your life. Maybe it’s a cloud of sin. Maybe it’s the indifference of a cold heart. Perhaps you’ve allowed yourself to drift away.
Just as the sun is the same everywhere, yet it affects us differently because of where we are, so also God is the same for each of us. In your spiritual journey, you can find ways to remove the blockages by confessing your sins to Him (1 John 1:9). Let the warm light of His love shine on you today. Return to the glow of His affection. That’s way better than a day at the beach. —Dave Branon
REFLECTION
• Okay, I admit it. I’m the one who seems blocked from Jesus’ warm love. What is shutting me off from enjoying my Savior?
• How can I help a friend who seems under the cloud? What can I say to him?
Remove the Son-block and enjoy His warmth.
Saturday, October 12, 2002
Don't Give Up
Read: Matthew 26:69-75
Jesus said to him, "Feed My sheep." —John 21:17
On the last day of spring training in 1979, baseball player Steve Kemp of the Detroit Tigers was hit in the head with a pitched ball and taken to the hospital. But on opening day of the regular season he stepped up to the plate with confidence. Taking fastballs from a veteran pitcher, he smacked a single. The next time at bat he hit a home run.
During a postgame interview he said, "After I was hit, I just told myself, 'I can't let it bother me.' If you let it bother you, you're not going to be any good to yourself or your team."
The apostle Peter responded to a bitter experience in much the same way. He had been hit hard by a "pitch" from the enemy. He had promised earlier that he would follow Christ, even if it meant death (Matthew 26:33-35). But just a little while later, facing unexpected pressure, he denied his Lord (vv.69-75).
That devastating blow could have caused him to quit. But Peter didn't give up—because Jesus didn't give up on him. After the Lord encouraged him (John 21:15-19), Peter boldly proclaimed the gospel, and many people trusted in Christ.
Have you been hit by failure? The Lord wants to restore you and make you useful again. —Mart De Haan II
Our Savior does not cast us off
Because we fail to stand the test;
Instead, He draws us back through love
That in Him we may find our rest. —D. De Haan
God can transform tragedies into triumphs.
daily bread
Read: Matthew 26:69-75
Jesus said to him, "Feed My sheep." —John 21:17
On the last day of spring training in 1979, baseball player Steve Kemp of the Detroit Tigers was hit in the head with a pitched ball and taken to the hospital. But on opening day of the regular season he stepped up to the plate with confidence. Taking fastballs from a veteran pitcher, he smacked a single. The next time at bat he hit a home run.
During a postgame interview he said, "After I was hit, I just told myself, 'I can't let it bother me.' If you let it bother you, you're not going to be any good to yourself or your team."
The apostle Peter responded to a bitter experience in much the same way. He had been hit hard by a "pitch" from the enemy. He had promised earlier that he would follow Christ, even if it meant death (Matthew 26:33-35). But just a little while later, facing unexpected pressure, he denied his Lord (vv.69-75).
That devastating blow could have caused him to quit. But Peter didn't give up—because Jesus didn't give up on him. After the Lord encouraged him (John 21:15-19), Peter boldly proclaimed the gospel, and many people trusted in Christ.
Have you been hit by failure? The Lord wants to restore you and make you useful again. —Mart De Haan II
Our Savior does not cast us off
Because we fail to stand the test;
Instead, He draws us back through love
That in Him we may find our rest. —D. De Haan
God can transform tragedies into triumphs.
daily bread
Friday, October 11, 2002
Falling In Love
By Dena J. Dyer
What does is take to make love last? Tom (age 7) believes: "Spend most of your time loving instead of going to work." Roger (age 8) says, "Don't forget your wife's name."
"Love one another." John 13:34.
"If falling in love is anything like learning to spell, I don't want to do it. It takes too long," said Leo, a seven year-old.
Love is hard. Just ask Romeo and Juliet, or Scarlett and Rhett, or even Elizabeth Taylor. What does is take to make love last? Tom (age 7) believes: "Spend most of your time loving instead of going to work." Roger (age 8) says, "Don't forget your wife's name."
The apostle Paul wrote that love is patient and kind, doesn't envy or boast, and isn't proud. It's also not rude, self-seeking, easily angered, and it keeps no record of wrongs. (1st Corinthians 13:4-5) In other words, truly loving others requires that we put another person's needs in front of our own.
Some people follow the world's lead and change spouses when the current marriage gets rough. Case in point: when Donald Trump was asked about his impending divorce from Marla Maples, he said, "If you have to work at it, what's the use?"
I wonder how far he would have gotten in business with that attitude?
No, love isn't easy. But it is worth the work. Just ask any couple who has been through hard times and, with God's grace, come out on the other side with their marriage intact.
But for those of us who will sometimes forget the apostle Paul's advice, Randy (age 8) has a word: "Be a good kisser. It might make your wife forget that you never take out the trash."
Lord, help me to love others as you have loved me.
Copyright 2002, by Dena J. Dyer. Used by permission.
cbn
By Dena J. Dyer
What does is take to make love last? Tom (age 7) believes: "Spend most of your time loving instead of going to work." Roger (age 8) says, "Don't forget your wife's name."
"Love one another." John 13:34.
"If falling in love is anything like learning to spell, I don't want to do it. It takes too long," said Leo, a seven year-old.
Love is hard. Just ask Romeo and Juliet, or Scarlett and Rhett, or even Elizabeth Taylor. What does is take to make love last? Tom (age 7) believes: "Spend most of your time loving instead of going to work." Roger (age 8) says, "Don't forget your wife's name."
The apostle Paul wrote that love is patient and kind, doesn't envy or boast, and isn't proud. It's also not rude, self-seeking, easily angered, and it keeps no record of wrongs. (1st Corinthians 13:4-5) In other words, truly loving others requires that we put another person's needs in front of our own.
Some people follow the world's lead and change spouses when the current marriage gets rough. Case in point: when Donald Trump was asked about his impending divorce from Marla Maples, he said, "If you have to work at it, what's the use?"
I wonder how far he would have gotten in business with that attitude?
No, love isn't easy. But it is worth the work. Just ask any couple who has been through hard times and, with God's grace, come out on the other side with their marriage intact.
But for those of us who will sometimes forget the apostle Paul's advice, Randy (age 8) has a word: "Be a good kisser. It might make your wife forget that you never take out the trash."
Lord, help me to love others as you have loved me.
Copyright 2002, by Dena J. Dyer. Used by permission.
cbn
Thursday, October 10, 2002
Are Your Lights On?
By Pat Young
You need the light of Christ. No one living in darkness will ever find their way without it. Like the saying "there's a light at the end of the tunnel", Jesus is that light at the end of everyone's tunnel.
I know most of us or perhaps all of us at one time in our lives have experienced the lights going out, whether in our homes, or in a place of business, school or church. Some of you may have experienced having your lights turned off because you forgot to pay your light bill, or just could not afford to pay the bill on time. I have experienced my lights going out several times through circumstances I had no control over. Usually a storm or an accident in the neighborhood causes it. Then "out go the lights."
Well, we know when the lights are out we are in darkness. We cannot see a thing. If we are not familiar with the surroundings, we are not able to even feel our way around to get to flash lights, candles, matches, or whatever we need. So it's a bad situation to be in -- DARKNESS.
Now, when things are functioning properly, we go home, turn on the light switch and we have light. We see everything. Sometimes things we don't want to see! Furniture needs dusting, floors need cleaning, and the list goes on. But it is still good to have light.
Before we gave our lives to Christ we were lost in darkness. Someone had to come along with his or her light shining bright, and tell us how to come out of darkness and into Christ's marvelous light.
Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, "I am the light of the world. He who follows me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life" (John 8:12).
Jesus paid the price for all of us in full. He died on the cross and rose again. When we accept Christ in our lives our lights never have to go out. No matter what circumstances come our way, we never have to worry about paying our bill on time. It's been paid in full forever.
Without lights you're walking around in darkness, trying to make it, or trying to find your way. But you need the light of Christ. No one living in darkness will ever find their way without it. Like the saying "there's a light at the end of the tunnel", Jesus is that light at the end of everyone's tunnel.
For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light (Ephesians 5:8).
No matter what problems arise, we can still let our lights shine. When people treat you bad -- let your light shine. When sickness comes upon you -- let your light shine. If money runs out -- let your light shine. We choose daily whom we will serve. Let us choose to serve Christ and let our lights shine BRIGHT!
cbn
By Pat Young
You need the light of Christ. No one living in darkness will ever find their way without it. Like the saying "there's a light at the end of the tunnel", Jesus is that light at the end of everyone's tunnel.
I know most of us or perhaps all of us at one time in our lives have experienced the lights going out, whether in our homes, or in a place of business, school or church. Some of you may have experienced having your lights turned off because you forgot to pay your light bill, or just could not afford to pay the bill on time. I have experienced my lights going out several times through circumstances I had no control over. Usually a storm or an accident in the neighborhood causes it. Then "out go the lights."
Well, we know when the lights are out we are in darkness. We cannot see a thing. If we are not familiar with the surroundings, we are not able to even feel our way around to get to flash lights, candles, matches, or whatever we need. So it's a bad situation to be in -- DARKNESS.
Now, when things are functioning properly, we go home, turn on the light switch and we have light. We see everything. Sometimes things we don't want to see! Furniture needs dusting, floors need cleaning, and the list goes on. But it is still good to have light.
Before we gave our lives to Christ we were lost in darkness. Someone had to come along with his or her light shining bright, and tell us how to come out of darkness and into Christ's marvelous light.
Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, "I am the light of the world. He who follows me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life" (John 8:12).
Jesus paid the price for all of us in full. He died on the cross and rose again. When we accept Christ in our lives our lights never have to go out. No matter what circumstances come our way, we never have to worry about paying our bill on time. It's been paid in full forever.
Without lights you're walking around in darkness, trying to make it, or trying to find your way. But you need the light of Christ. No one living in darkness will ever find their way without it. Like the saying "there's a light at the end of the tunnel", Jesus is that light at the end of everyone's tunnel.
For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light (Ephesians 5:8).
No matter what problems arise, we can still let our lights shine. When people treat you bad -- let your light shine. When sickness comes upon you -- let your light shine. If money runs out -- let your light shine. We choose daily whom we will serve. Let us choose to serve Christ and let our lights shine BRIGHT!
cbn
Wednesday, October 09, 2002
Learning To Comfort
Read: 2 Corinthians 1:3-11
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort. —2 Corinthians 1:3
When she heard that her best friend's baby died, Andra didn't know what to do. Should she call her friend right away or wait a few days? What should she say? She asked her mother, Mary Farr, a children's hospital chaplain, for advice. "Phone her now," her mother said. "Tell her you love her and that you'll call back later." Andra followed that advice, and it meant a great deal to her friend.
How should we respond when those we care about suffer a loss? Second Corinthians 1:4 tells us that God "comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God." It's in God's school of comfort that we learn to better understand the needs of those who hurt.
Mary Farr writes, "We live in a fragile and imperfect world tinged by brokenness and cloaked in unanswered questions. Some things truly aren't fair. This is hard." She encourages people to resist the temptation to fill the silence with talk. Instead, we need to be comfortable with saying, "I don't know," and not try to provide easy answers. And when there's nothing to say, just sit together.
When friends need comfort, ask "the Father of mercies" (v.3) to teach you what to say and do. —David McCasland
The comfort God has given us
He wants us now to share
With others who are suffering
And caught in life's despair. —Sper
God comforts us to make us comforters.
daily bread
Read: 2 Corinthians 1:3-11
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort. —2 Corinthians 1:3
When she heard that her best friend's baby died, Andra didn't know what to do. Should she call her friend right away or wait a few days? What should she say? She asked her mother, Mary Farr, a children's hospital chaplain, for advice. "Phone her now," her mother said. "Tell her you love her and that you'll call back later." Andra followed that advice, and it meant a great deal to her friend.
How should we respond when those we care about suffer a loss? Second Corinthians 1:4 tells us that God "comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God." It's in God's school of comfort that we learn to better understand the needs of those who hurt.
Mary Farr writes, "We live in a fragile and imperfect world tinged by brokenness and cloaked in unanswered questions. Some things truly aren't fair. This is hard." She encourages people to resist the temptation to fill the silence with talk. Instead, we need to be comfortable with saying, "I don't know," and not try to provide easy answers. And when there's nothing to say, just sit together.
When friends need comfort, ask "the Father of mercies" (v.3) to teach you what to say and do. —David McCasland
The comfort God has given us
He wants us now to share
With others who are suffering
And caught in life's despair. —Sper
God comforts us to make us comforters.
daily bread
Tuesday, October 08, 2002
Hear Ye The Word Of The Lord
By Martha Noebel
"I have called you to a ministry beyond anything that you can conceive, and even as you begin to conceive, your thoughts cannot comprehend what I have called you to do, so do not try to think ahead of Me, but only walk with My plans and My purposes, and I will reveal My plans step by step..."
On September 25, 1976, Pat Robertson shared a prophecy the Lord gave him for CBN. Many times I have read portions of this prophecy and felt it speak to my heart. I would like to share parts of this prophecy with you.
Do not be afraid of the places that I will take you, for I AM a mighty God. My ways are not your ways, and MY thoughts are not your thoughts. But My people, I have called you for this moment.
Walk boldly into the future, for I hold the future, and I AM the future. Fear not what will happen, for I will provide, and I will provide beyond your wildest dreams. I have called you to a ministry beyond anything that you can conceive, and even as you begin to conceive, your thoughts cannot comprehend what I have called you to do, so do not try to think ahead of Me, but only walk with My plans and My purposes, and I will reveal My plans step by step. But you need not be afraid. You can walk confidently, for I the Lord your God have enfolded you with love…
Walk in holiness before Me now, for I have called you for a great and mighty task. Do not look back, and do not fear. Be strong, and be courageous, and do it, saith the Lord your God.
Rev. Jim Cymbala of the Brooklyn Tabernacle recently spoke in our chapel service on "inquiring of the Lord." He shared how David inquired of the Lord before going into battle. He wanted to make sure God was on his side before he took his men to a war that possibly was not God's plan for them. He wanted to win!
We too want to be winners. We want to know what plans God has for us. We must inquire of the Lord and be willing to do whatever God tells us to do. The prophecy reminds us not to be afraid of the places God will take us. God wants us to know His hand and His heart are toward us. His hand speaks of His provision and His heart speaks of His great love for all of His people.
He wants us to walk boldly into the future. He knows what is ahead and His thoughts for us are good.
How about this part, "I will provide beyond your wildest dreams. I have called you to a ministry beyond anything that you can conceive, and even as you begin to conceive, your thoughts cannot comprehend what I have called you to do…" What has God called you to do? Have you asked Him? What are His purposes and plans for your life? Are you listening for His voice today?
He has called us all to do great and mighty things. He is equipping us with everything we need to be successful.
"Do not look back, and do not fear. Be strong, and be courageous, and do it, saith the Lord your God."
Let us pray this prayer to God as Jehoshaphat did:
We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon you... (II Chronicles. 20:12b NIV).
Inquire of the Lord, hear the Word of the Lord, and as the commercial says, "Just Do It!"
For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11).
cbn
By Martha Noebel
"I have called you to a ministry beyond anything that you can conceive, and even as you begin to conceive, your thoughts cannot comprehend what I have called you to do, so do not try to think ahead of Me, but only walk with My plans and My purposes, and I will reveal My plans step by step..."
On September 25, 1976, Pat Robertson shared a prophecy the Lord gave him for CBN. Many times I have read portions of this prophecy and felt it speak to my heart. I would like to share parts of this prophecy with you.
Do not be afraid of the places that I will take you, for I AM a mighty God. My ways are not your ways, and MY thoughts are not your thoughts. But My people, I have called you for this moment.
Walk boldly into the future, for I hold the future, and I AM the future. Fear not what will happen, for I will provide, and I will provide beyond your wildest dreams. I have called you to a ministry beyond anything that you can conceive, and even as you begin to conceive, your thoughts cannot comprehend what I have called you to do, so do not try to think ahead of Me, but only walk with My plans and My purposes, and I will reveal My plans step by step. But you need not be afraid. You can walk confidently, for I the Lord your God have enfolded you with love…
Walk in holiness before Me now, for I have called you for a great and mighty task. Do not look back, and do not fear. Be strong, and be courageous, and do it, saith the Lord your God.
Rev. Jim Cymbala of the Brooklyn Tabernacle recently spoke in our chapel service on "inquiring of the Lord." He shared how David inquired of the Lord before going into battle. He wanted to make sure God was on his side before he took his men to a war that possibly was not God's plan for them. He wanted to win!
We too want to be winners. We want to know what plans God has for us. We must inquire of the Lord and be willing to do whatever God tells us to do. The prophecy reminds us not to be afraid of the places God will take us. God wants us to know His hand and His heart are toward us. His hand speaks of His provision and His heart speaks of His great love for all of His people.
He wants us to walk boldly into the future. He knows what is ahead and His thoughts for us are good.
How about this part, "I will provide beyond your wildest dreams. I have called you to a ministry beyond anything that you can conceive, and even as you begin to conceive, your thoughts cannot comprehend what I have called you to do…" What has God called you to do? Have you asked Him? What are His purposes and plans for your life? Are you listening for His voice today?
He has called us all to do great and mighty things. He is equipping us with everything we need to be successful.
"Do not look back, and do not fear. Be strong, and be courageous, and do it, saith the Lord your God."
Let us pray this prayer to God as Jehoshaphat did:
We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon you... (II Chronicles. 20:12b NIV).
Inquire of the Lord, hear the Word of the Lord, and as the commercial says, "Just Do It!"
For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11).
cbn
Monday, October 07, 2002
A Holy Sacrifice
DROPPING A FEW coins in the Salvation Army kettle at Christmas or giving used items to Goodwill Industries has become routine for most of us. But what if you were asked to contribute your best suit or your best set of china? God asked the Israelites to give their best as a sacrifice to him. No doubt some did it with secret grumblings, while others did it with joy.
Warming Up to God
Reflect on a time when you made some difficult sacrifices and the Lord made the cost worth it. Allow your words of praise and gratitude to well up in response.
Read Leviticus 1.
Discovering the Word
• When the Israelites brought offerings from their herds or flocks, what requirements did they need to meet (vv. 3-10)?
• How were the givers to identify themselves with the offering (v. 4)?
• What was the purpose of the offering (v. 4)?
• What part did the priests play in the offering (vv. 5-17)?
• How was an offering of birds different from one from the herd or flock (vv. 14-17)?
Applying the Word
In Romans 12:1 Paul urges us: "Offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God--this is your spiritual act of worship." How is this sacrifice different from the burnt offerings of Leviticus 1? How is it the same?
Verses 9, 13 and 17 describe how the offering creates "an aroma pleasing to the LORD." How is your life pleasing to God?
Responding in Prayer
Give thanks for Christ's sacrifice and the salvation it has made available to you. Pray for guidance in how you can offer your body as a living sacrifice today.
inter varsity press
DROPPING A FEW coins in the Salvation Army kettle at Christmas or giving used items to Goodwill Industries has become routine for most of us. But what if you were asked to contribute your best suit or your best set of china? God asked the Israelites to give their best as a sacrifice to him. No doubt some did it with secret grumblings, while others did it with joy.
Warming Up to God
Reflect on a time when you made some difficult sacrifices and the Lord made the cost worth it. Allow your words of praise and gratitude to well up in response.
Read Leviticus 1.
Discovering the Word
• When the Israelites brought offerings from their herds or flocks, what requirements did they need to meet (vv. 3-10)?
• How were the givers to identify themselves with the offering (v. 4)?
• What was the purpose of the offering (v. 4)?
• What part did the priests play in the offering (vv. 5-17)?
• How was an offering of birds different from one from the herd or flock (vv. 14-17)?
Applying the Word
In Romans 12:1 Paul urges us: "Offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God--this is your spiritual act of worship." How is this sacrifice different from the burnt offerings of Leviticus 1? How is it the same?
Verses 9, 13 and 17 describe how the offering creates "an aroma pleasing to the LORD." How is your life pleasing to God?
Responding in Prayer
Give thanks for Christ's sacrifice and the salvation it has made available to you. Pray for guidance in how you can offer your body as a living sacrifice today.
inter varsity press
Sunday, October 06, 2002
Humble Stars
Read: Philippians 2:1-18
You shine as lights in the world. —Philippians 2:15
Our culture elevates certain people to the category of "star" because of their ability in sports, music, acting, or some other talent. The stars who are often appreciated and loved the most, though, are those who accept their popularity graciously and maintain humility despite their greatness. They are humble stars.
Followers of Christ are to be stars of another kind. Jesus said that He is "the light of the world" (John 8:12). We too are to shine "as lights in the world" by being "blameless and harmless, children of God without fault" (Philippians 2:15). That's how we stand out in the dark, sinful world around us.
We can also look to Jesus as our model of humility. Although He had every right to hold on to His high position in heaven with God, He "made Himself of no reputation," the apostle Paul wrote (v.7). He became not only a man but a servant. What a lowly position for the Creator of heaven and earth!
Jesus is our example of genuine servanthood, yet He is the brightest Star of the universe. As we become like Him, we will be bright and shining stars, and people will be drawn to Christ through our humble service.
Is your light shining brightly? —Dave Branon
I want my life to shine for Jesus
So that everywhere I go
The watching world will see He loves them
And His saving grace will know. —Hess
You can be too big for God to use, but you can't be too small.
daily bread
Read: Philippians 2:1-18
You shine as lights in the world. —Philippians 2:15
Our culture elevates certain people to the category of "star" because of their ability in sports, music, acting, or some other talent. The stars who are often appreciated and loved the most, though, are those who accept their popularity graciously and maintain humility despite their greatness. They are humble stars.
Followers of Christ are to be stars of another kind. Jesus said that He is "the light of the world" (John 8:12). We too are to shine "as lights in the world" by being "blameless and harmless, children of God without fault" (Philippians 2:15). That's how we stand out in the dark, sinful world around us.
We can also look to Jesus as our model of humility. Although He had every right to hold on to His high position in heaven with God, He "made Himself of no reputation," the apostle Paul wrote (v.7). He became not only a man but a servant. What a lowly position for the Creator of heaven and earth!
Jesus is our example of genuine servanthood, yet He is the brightest Star of the universe. As we become like Him, we will be bright and shining stars, and people will be drawn to Christ through our humble service.
Is your light shining brightly? —Dave Branon
I want my life to shine for Jesus
So that everywhere I go
The watching world will see He loves them
And His saving grace will know. —Hess
You can be too big for God to use, but you can't be too small.
daily bread
Saturday, October 05, 2002
A Heavenly Benefits Package
By Laura Bagby
Need a boost? God has a six-fold blessing awaiting you.
If you have ever been a recipient of an awesome employee benefits package, then you know about the peace of mind and financial relief such an offering can provide.
You don't have to worry as much when the kids get sick. You can actually visit the dentist twice a year for those regular cleanings. You get the joy of seeing your money matched as you add to your retirement plan. Free business lunches come your way. Reimbursement for car mileage is company policy.
Doesn't it feel good?
Now what if I told you that God has a benefits package for each of us that far exceeds what any company or institution could offer? I like to think of it as a heavenly benefits package. And what's great about this deal is that as long as you are on God's payroll working in the occupation of King's Kid, then all of these benefits are yours.
Where can you find out about this tremendous special offer? David spells it out for us in Psalm 103:2-5.
The passage starts, "Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits." Hold it right there.
Did you catch that it is beneficial to be a believer in Jesus Christ? Did you see that God is in the business of blessing us? Get ready for the Lord to pour forth His greatness into your life.
Read the rest of the passage, starting once again with verse 2:
"Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits -- who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's."
OK, so if you were to get this list written down in bullet points, it would look like this:
• God forgives all of your sins.
• God heals all of your disease.
• God redeems your life from the pit.
• God crowns you with love and compassion.
• God satisfies your desires with good things.
• God restores your youth.
This plan offers an astounding health insurance policy (what HMO could offer to heal your diseases, let alone all of them and for free?), an excellent life insurance policy (redemption from the pit of not only hell but all other pits you might find yourself in when you sin), a fitness program that beats working out at the gym (He renews your youth), a department-provided uniform (wearing love and compassion), life-changing counseling sessions (just think of how much better your mental state is when you know He forgives all of your sins), and an ongoing "satisfaction guaranteed or your money back" seal of approval that never expires (He satisfies your desires).
A six-fold blessing -- I like the sound of that.
I don't know about you, but a deal like that makes me want to shout praises to the Lord. Why not do it today.
cbn
By Laura Bagby
Need a boost? God has a six-fold blessing awaiting you.
If you have ever been a recipient of an awesome employee benefits package, then you know about the peace of mind and financial relief such an offering can provide.
You don't have to worry as much when the kids get sick. You can actually visit the dentist twice a year for those regular cleanings. You get the joy of seeing your money matched as you add to your retirement plan. Free business lunches come your way. Reimbursement for car mileage is company policy.
Doesn't it feel good?
Now what if I told you that God has a benefits package for each of us that far exceeds what any company or institution could offer? I like to think of it as a heavenly benefits package. And what's great about this deal is that as long as you are on God's payroll working in the occupation of King's Kid, then all of these benefits are yours.
Where can you find out about this tremendous special offer? David spells it out for us in Psalm 103:2-5.
The passage starts, "Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits." Hold it right there.
Did you catch that it is beneficial to be a believer in Jesus Christ? Did you see that God is in the business of blessing us? Get ready for the Lord to pour forth His greatness into your life.
Read the rest of the passage, starting once again with verse 2:
"Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits -- who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's."
OK, so if you were to get this list written down in bullet points, it would look like this:
• God forgives all of your sins.
• God heals all of your disease.
• God redeems your life from the pit.
• God crowns you with love and compassion.
• God satisfies your desires with good things.
• God restores your youth.
This plan offers an astounding health insurance policy (what HMO could offer to heal your diseases, let alone all of them and for free?), an excellent life insurance policy (redemption from the pit of not only hell but all other pits you might find yourself in when you sin), a fitness program that beats working out at the gym (He renews your youth), a department-provided uniform (wearing love and compassion), life-changing counseling sessions (just think of how much better your mental state is when you know He forgives all of your sins), and an ongoing "satisfaction guaranteed or your money back" seal of approval that never expires (He satisfies your desires).
A six-fold blessing -- I like the sound of that.
I don't know about you, but a deal like that makes me want to shout praises to the Lord. Why not do it today.
cbn
Friday, October 04, 2002
No Greater Love!
Read: James 4:1-6
He gives more grace. —James 4:6
Pastor and author F. B. Meyer once confided to a friend that he felt welcome in any home in England except his own. His loveless marriage was a source of deep heartache. Yet Meyer believed that he, by his aching soul, was being prepared to give love and strength to others, and especially to his wife at the end of her days. He wrote these words to her:
If then your future life should need
A strength my love can only gain
Through suffering—or my heart be freed
Only by sorrow from some stain,
Then you shall give, and I will take
This crown of fire for Love's dear sake.
You too may feel unloved. If so, don't try to find love by befriending this world (James 4:4-5). Rather, give yourself to knowing and loving God. Let Him meet your deep need for affection and caring. "He gives more grace" (v.6)—more than anything you could ever gain on your own.
And here is multiplied grace: When you know and experience God's unconditional love, you can then give yourself to others—even to those who have caused you great pain.
Allow God by His grace to work through your heartache, to control your intentions and desires. Allow Him to draw you in His direction and hold you with His affection, molding you to His perfect design. There is no greater love! —David Roper
You can know beyond all doubting
In the trials you're passing through
That our God's great love and mercy
Are at work for good in you. —Anon.
No one is beyond the reach of God's love.
daily bread
Read: James 4:1-6
He gives more grace. —James 4:6
Pastor and author F. B. Meyer once confided to a friend that he felt welcome in any home in England except his own. His loveless marriage was a source of deep heartache. Yet Meyer believed that he, by his aching soul, was being prepared to give love and strength to others, and especially to his wife at the end of her days. He wrote these words to her:
If then your future life should need
A strength my love can only gain
Through suffering—or my heart be freed
Only by sorrow from some stain,
Then you shall give, and I will take
This crown of fire for Love's dear sake.
You too may feel unloved. If so, don't try to find love by befriending this world (James 4:4-5). Rather, give yourself to knowing and loving God. Let Him meet your deep need for affection and caring. "He gives more grace" (v.6)—more than anything you could ever gain on your own.
And here is multiplied grace: When you know and experience God's unconditional love, you can then give yourself to others—even to those who have caused you great pain.
Allow God by His grace to work through your heartache, to control your intentions and desires. Allow Him to draw you in His direction and hold you with His affection, molding you to His perfect design. There is no greater love! —David Roper
You can know beyond all doubting
In the trials you're passing through
That our God's great love and mercy
Are at work for good in you. —Anon.
No one is beyond the reach of God's love.
daily bread
Thursday, October 03, 2002
Today's scripture is Matthew 26:41
"Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak."
Have you ever been frustrated with the weaknesses of your flesh? Have you ever resolved never more to yield to a particular sin, yet when the temptation came, you fell right back into it? It's happened to all of us. Even the disciple Peter. He swore he would never deny Jesus...but he did it anyway, time and time and time again.
There is, however, something we can do to keep from falling prey to temptations like that. We can "watch and pray." That's what Jesus told Peter and the other disciples to do in the Garden of Gethsemane.He knew they were about to be tempted, and He knew that the weakness of their flesh would overcome them if they didn't strengthen their spirits through prayer.
So, He's given us the ability to pray in other tongues, to strengthen our spirit and build it up until it takes ascendancy over our flesh. As we pray in the Spirit, Romans 8:26 tells us, the "(Holy) Spirit comes to our aid and bears us up in our weakness; for we do not know what prayer to offer nor how to offer it worthily as we ought, but the Spirit Himself goes to meet our supplication and pleads in our behalf" (The Amplified Bible).
Scripture Reading: Matthew 26:30-44
bibleshack
"Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak."
Have you ever been frustrated with the weaknesses of your flesh? Have you ever resolved never more to yield to a particular sin, yet when the temptation came, you fell right back into it? It's happened to all of us. Even the disciple Peter. He swore he would never deny Jesus...but he did it anyway, time and time and time again.
There is, however, something we can do to keep from falling prey to temptations like that. We can "watch and pray." That's what Jesus told Peter and the other disciples to do in the Garden of Gethsemane.He knew they were about to be tempted, and He knew that the weakness of their flesh would overcome them if they didn't strengthen their spirits through prayer.
So, He's given us the ability to pray in other tongues, to strengthen our spirit and build it up until it takes ascendancy over our flesh. As we pray in the Spirit, Romans 8:26 tells us, the "(Holy) Spirit comes to our aid and bears us up in our weakness; for we do not know what prayer to offer nor how to offer it worthily as we ought, but the Spirit Himself goes to meet our supplication and pleads in our behalf" (The Amplified Bible).
Scripture Reading: Matthew 26:30-44
bibleshack
Wednesday, October 02, 2002
Will It Please Him?
Read: Ephesians 5:1-17
Walk as children of light . . . , finding out what is acceptable to the Lord. —Ephesians 5:8,10
Two friends were talking about a movie that one of them had seen recently. As he began to describe the film, he characterized it like this: "You wouldn't want to take your pastor to watch it with you."
It's a curious standard we sometimes set for ourselves, isn't it? We allow ourselves to view, hear, or participate in things that we know are not proper for us as followers of Christ. But if an activity is not appropriate for those whom we expect to be godly (church leaders), how can it be okay for us? Or if it has elements that would be harmful for young people to take part in, then why should we?
When Paul wrote to the Ephesians, he didn't limit God's moral standards to certain people or age groups. He didn't create a rating system that would allow exposure to evil for those who were at certain spiritual levels. Instead, he pointed to the Lord Jesus as the standard.
If we are committed to living as God has called us to live, we will strive to find out what is "acceptable to the Lord" (Ephesians 5:10). We will "have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them" (v.11).
The issue is not what a pastor or any other person would do. The question is: Will it please the Lord? —Dave Branon
Lord, as I follow You by faith,
Help me each day to learn
That pleasing You in all I do
Must be my main concern. —Fitzhugh
You can do what you please if what you do pleases God.
daily bread
Read: Ephesians 5:1-17
Walk as children of light . . . , finding out what is acceptable to the Lord. —Ephesians 5:8,10
Two friends were talking about a movie that one of them had seen recently. As he began to describe the film, he characterized it like this: "You wouldn't want to take your pastor to watch it with you."
It's a curious standard we sometimes set for ourselves, isn't it? We allow ourselves to view, hear, or participate in things that we know are not proper for us as followers of Christ. But if an activity is not appropriate for those whom we expect to be godly (church leaders), how can it be okay for us? Or if it has elements that would be harmful for young people to take part in, then why should we?
When Paul wrote to the Ephesians, he didn't limit God's moral standards to certain people or age groups. He didn't create a rating system that would allow exposure to evil for those who were at certain spiritual levels. Instead, he pointed to the Lord Jesus as the standard.
If we are committed to living as God has called us to live, we will strive to find out what is "acceptable to the Lord" (Ephesians 5:10). We will "have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them" (v.11).
The issue is not what a pastor or any other person would do. The question is: Will it please the Lord? —Dave Branon
Lord, as I follow You by faith,
Help me each day to learn
That pleasing You in all I do
Must be my main concern. —Fitzhugh
You can do what you please if what you do pleases God.
daily bread
Tuesday, October 01, 2002
False Hopes About the Kingdom of God
MOST OF MY bosses have been hard drivers who regularly exasperated me. But in the long run we worked together productively. If we respect and like our bosses, we are often willing to work hard and even overtime. If we don't respect or like them, we usually are not willing. Then we probably become unproductive. Likewise our personal view of God affects our working relationship to him. In this case productivity has not just temporal but eternal consequences.
Warming Up to God
How has work been for you this week? Talk to God about any frustrations you have experienced.
Read Luke 19:11-48.
Discovering the Word
1. Jesus' key words in verse 10 have inflamed the crowd's messianic expectations. Jesus' parable aims to counter any false hopes. In verses 12-15 what comparisons between the nobleman and himself does Jesus highlight?
2. Consider the hour of accountability when the master returns as king (vv. 15-26). The reward of the first two (representative) servants is simple. But the king's dialogue with the third servant is detailed. With this emphasis, what point is Jesus making (keep in mind v. 11)?
3. The adversaries of the nobleman- made-king are mentioned only at the beginning and the end (vv. 14, 27). Whom does Jesus intend them to represent?
4. How does he smash the false hopes of this group?
5. In verses 28-40 we see Jesus in various aspects of his messianic role. In a descriptive word or phrase, what concern of Jesus' do you see as he approaches Jerusalem?
6. What concern of Jesus' do you note as he reflects on Jerusalem (vv. 41-44)?
Applying the Word
1. In this panoramic view of Jesus the Messiah, what do you find hard to understand about him?
2. What about Jesus here can you positively respond to? Why?
Responding in Prayer
• Worship Jesus the Messiah king with praise, awe and thanksgiving.
inter varsity press
MOST OF MY bosses have been hard drivers who regularly exasperated me. But in the long run we worked together productively. If we respect and like our bosses, we are often willing to work hard and even overtime. If we don't respect or like them, we usually are not willing. Then we probably become unproductive. Likewise our personal view of God affects our working relationship to him. In this case productivity has not just temporal but eternal consequences.
Warming Up to God
How has work been for you this week? Talk to God about any frustrations you have experienced.
Read Luke 19:11-48.
Discovering the Word
1. Jesus' key words in verse 10 have inflamed the crowd's messianic expectations. Jesus' parable aims to counter any false hopes. In verses 12-15 what comparisons between the nobleman and himself does Jesus highlight?
2. Consider the hour of accountability when the master returns as king (vv. 15-26). The reward of the first two (representative) servants is simple. But the king's dialogue with the third servant is detailed. With this emphasis, what point is Jesus making (keep in mind v. 11)?
3. The adversaries of the nobleman- made-king are mentioned only at the beginning and the end (vv. 14, 27). Whom does Jesus intend them to represent?
4. How does he smash the false hopes of this group?
5. In verses 28-40 we see Jesus in various aspects of his messianic role. In a descriptive word or phrase, what concern of Jesus' do you see as he approaches Jerusalem?
6. What concern of Jesus' do you note as he reflects on Jerusalem (vv. 41-44)?
Applying the Word
1. In this panoramic view of Jesus the Messiah, what do you find hard to understand about him?
2. What about Jesus here can you positively respond to? Why?
Responding in Prayer
• Worship Jesus the Messiah king with praise, awe and thanksgiving.
inter varsity press