Look Busy
By Ellen Prohaska
You have to get serious when you know the time is limited knowing that a lot of effort will be blown about if you don't entirely complete the task in a certain time frame.
While driving recently, I saw a bumper sticker with the words "Look Busy." I started laughing. Who in this day and age needs to look busy?
We are all busier then we want to be. Life is at a seemingly insane pace. There is always more to do then we can ever hope to accomplish. It's no wonder that "to do" lists aren't really much help any longer. They often serve to frustrate us as we look at the list, look at the clock, and then realize it won't all fit. It is then that we need to consider what is most necessary versus what is just nice. There never is time to do it all, so we set priorities in our lives.
But, there was a second line on that bumper sticker. The whole message was "Look Busy, Jesus is coming". Are there people who really think that it will make a difference to Jesus if they look busy? Jesus said He had to be about the fathers business (Luke 2:49 KJV). That sounds like accomplishing things instead of looking busy. We also are instructed to work while it is still light for the might comes when no one can work (John 9:4).
When I raked leaves this fall, I can tell you I didn't try to look busy. I worked hard keeping an eye on the dimming light as the day progressed toward night. You have to get serious when you know the time is limited knowing that a lot of effort will be blown about if you don't entirely complete the task in a certain time frame. Some of us are so busy. We try and manipulate our available time by turning on the floodlights to extend the day.
However, there is coming a night that we can't artificially light. There are two questions that we should ask ourselves before then.
1. Are we personally ready for the return of Jesus? Have we prepared? Have we opened or lives and hearts to him and recognized that His "being about the Father's business" was for Him to die on the cross for our sins? And once we recognize that, have we acknowledged that He has done for us what we could never do for ourselves? Have we accepted Him as our Savior or have we been too busy with lower priority things on our list.
If this is you, what are you waiting for? I tell you, now is the time of God's favor, now is the day of salvation (II Corinthians 6:1). There is no better time than now. There is no guarantee that you will have another chance or even more time later. Do it now.
2. What are we doing to get this information to our friends, family, co-workers, acquaintances, and even strangers? If we are really living a life of loving our neighbor as ourselves, then we will want to be sure that they are also prepared. This isn't just being busy with church programs. We need to look for fruit from our work.
Yes, Jesus is coming soon. Let's be busy, going into all our areas of influence, sharing what Jesus has done.
cbn
Wednesday, April 30, 2003
Tuesday, April 29, 2003
Too Much of a Good Thing
By Steven Halter
Too often, we as Christians believe in the wrong things, and we are quick to believe in them, too!
Faith is a wonderful thing. We have been saved by grace through faith (Eph. 2:8). By faith we have become children of God (John 1:12). With faith, it is possible to please God (Heb. 11:6). When we believe God, impossible things become possible.
But can we believe too much? "Certainly not!" you may say. But to really answer that question, we have to consider what and in Whom we are believing. Too often, we as Christians believe in the wrong things, and we are quick to believe in them, too!
For example, sometimes we're quick to believe in gossip about co-workers (2 Cor. 12:20). We may believe the latest rumors about celebrities. We might believe misinformation and slander about politicians. Bosses could believe a bad report about employees. By doing these things, we can hurt others by believing (and sometimes acting on) something about them that is not true. We misjudge them, and we make it worse by telling others the half-truths and lies we've believed.
Sometimes we hurt ourselves more directly by believing whatever teaching we hear. Or we may believe a smooth talking con artist who is utilizing the latest financial scheme.
How can we protect ourselves and keep from hurting others? There are a number of things we can do. One thing is to not believe just one side of a story that is told about someone. We need to hear both sides of a story, then we can understand the situation better (Prov. 18:17).
In addition, we can protect ourselves from false doctrine by comparing what we hear to the whole counsel of the Bible (Acts 17:10-12; Eph. 4:14). We should test everything with the Bible and the guidance of the Spirit (1 John 4:1; 1 Th. 5:21).
Let us resolve to not hurt ourselves or others by believing in things that we shouldn't. Let us ask the Lord to give us discernment about what is true and wisdom about what is right. Jesus Himself once said to His disciples, "be wise as serpents and innocent as doves" (Matt. 10:16). James wrote, "If any of you is lacking in wisdom, ask God, who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly, and it will be given you" (James 1:5).
Yes, faith is a wonderful thing! But let's not have too much of a good thing. Let's keep God and His truth as the focus of our faith. When we do that, we will be a brighter light to the world around us (Mat. 5:14). And as God helps us to grow in these areas, we will become more like our wonderful Lord and Savior Jesus! We will be more conformed to image of God's Son (Rom. 8:29). Thank God that His love is everlasting towards us as we continue to grow in Him.
cbn
By Steven Halter
Too often, we as Christians believe in the wrong things, and we are quick to believe in them, too!
Faith is a wonderful thing. We have been saved by grace through faith (Eph. 2:8). By faith we have become children of God (John 1:12). With faith, it is possible to please God (Heb. 11:6). When we believe God, impossible things become possible.
But can we believe too much? "Certainly not!" you may say. But to really answer that question, we have to consider what and in Whom we are believing. Too often, we as Christians believe in the wrong things, and we are quick to believe in them, too!
For example, sometimes we're quick to believe in gossip about co-workers (2 Cor. 12:20). We may believe the latest rumors about celebrities. We might believe misinformation and slander about politicians. Bosses could believe a bad report about employees. By doing these things, we can hurt others by believing (and sometimes acting on) something about them that is not true. We misjudge them, and we make it worse by telling others the half-truths and lies we've believed.
Sometimes we hurt ourselves more directly by believing whatever teaching we hear. Or we may believe a smooth talking con artist who is utilizing the latest financial scheme.
How can we protect ourselves and keep from hurting others? There are a number of things we can do. One thing is to not believe just one side of a story that is told about someone. We need to hear both sides of a story, then we can understand the situation better (Prov. 18:17).
In addition, we can protect ourselves from false doctrine by comparing what we hear to the whole counsel of the Bible (Acts 17:10-12; Eph. 4:14). We should test everything with the Bible and the guidance of the Spirit (1 John 4:1; 1 Th. 5:21).
Let us resolve to not hurt ourselves or others by believing in things that we shouldn't. Let us ask the Lord to give us discernment about what is true and wisdom about what is right. Jesus Himself once said to His disciples, "be wise as serpents and innocent as doves" (Matt. 10:16). James wrote, "If any of you is lacking in wisdom, ask God, who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly, and it will be given you" (James 1:5).
Yes, faith is a wonderful thing! But let's not have too much of a good thing. Let's keep God and His truth as the focus of our faith. When we do that, we will be a brighter light to the world around us (Mat. 5:14). And as God helps us to grow in these areas, we will become more like our wonderful Lord and Savior Jesus! We will be more conformed to image of God's Son (Rom. 8:29). Thank God that His love is everlasting towards us as we continue to grow in Him.
cbn
Monday, April 28, 2003
Adding Luster To Life
Read: Psalm 119:1-16
I will delight myself in Your statutes; I will not forget Your Word. —Psalm 119:16
While traveling on the ocean liner Vistafjord, Eleanor Sass and several other passengers were invited by the captain to visit the ship's bridge. There the engineer explained the workings of the intricate equipment, such as the compass and radar.
But what impressed many of the passengers most was all the brass, which gleamed like gold. "How often do you polish all this?" one man asked an officer. "Every day," was the reply. "For the minute you stop polishing it, the brass starts to tarnish."
That reply made Eleanor think about something she had stopped doing—reading God's Word every night. She recognized that her neglect of the Word of God was causing her life to be "tarnished." So, at bedtime that night she took out the Bible she had seen earlier in the dresser drawer. She began again to turn to God in His Word.
Have you been reading the Bible, or have you been neglecting that discipline? Psalm 119 encourages us to seek the Lord with our whole heart, to delight in His statutes, and not to forget His Word (vv.10,16).
If your relationship with God has lost its spiritual luster, it needs to be polished by the faithful habit of daily Scripture reading. —Vernon Grounds
The Bible is the Word of God,
Still fresh through all the ages;
But we must read if we're to find
The wisdom in its pages. —Sper
To know the Author of the Bible, read His Book.
daily bread
Read: Psalm 119:1-16
I will delight myself in Your statutes; I will not forget Your Word. —Psalm 119:16
While traveling on the ocean liner Vistafjord, Eleanor Sass and several other passengers were invited by the captain to visit the ship's bridge. There the engineer explained the workings of the intricate equipment, such as the compass and radar.
But what impressed many of the passengers most was all the brass, which gleamed like gold. "How often do you polish all this?" one man asked an officer. "Every day," was the reply. "For the minute you stop polishing it, the brass starts to tarnish."
That reply made Eleanor think about something she had stopped doing—reading God's Word every night. She recognized that her neglect of the Word of God was causing her life to be "tarnished." So, at bedtime that night she took out the Bible she had seen earlier in the dresser drawer. She began again to turn to God in His Word.
Have you been reading the Bible, or have you been neglecting that discipline? Psalm 119 encourages us to seek the Lord with our whole heart, to delight in His statutes, and not to forget His Word (vv.10,16).
If your relationship with God has lost its spiritual luster, it needs to be polished by the faithful habit of daily Scripture reading. —Vernon Grounds
The Bible is the Word of God,
Still fresh through all the ages;
But we must read if we're to find
The wisdom in its pages. —Sper
To know the Author of the Bible, read His Book.
daily bread
Sunday, April 27, 2003
He Is Here
Read: Luke 24:36-45
Jesus Himself stood in the midst of them, and said to them, "Peace to you." —Luke 24:36
Surprise! Surprise! The eleven apostles had gathered together on the day of Jesus' resurrection. They were discussing the strange happenings of the past few days, and had just listened to a report from two men who said they had seen Jesus. Suddenly He was there! Then the Savior said, "Peace to you" (Luke 24:36).
I wonder if we realize when we meet together—at church, in our home, in our prayer meetings, in our gatherings with friends—that Jesus is also there. He said, "Lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age" (Matthew 28:20). Do we really believe He is with us and listens to every word we say, and that He sees all we do?
Some scholars were discussing the great authors of the past. One asked, "What if Milton should suddenly enter the room?" "Ah!" replied another. "We would honor him and compensate him for the little recognition he received in his day." A third man commented, "What if Shakespeare entered? Would we not all stand and proclaim him King of the Poets?" Then someone ventured, "And if Jesus Christ should enter?" There was a long silence, until finally one said: "But gentlemen, He is here!"
Yes, remember that Jesus is here! He sees, He hears, and He knows! —M. R. DeHaan, M.D.
Although we cannot see our Lord,
We know that He is here;
His promise is dependable:
He always will be near. —Hess
Our greatest privilege is to enjoy Christ's presence.
daily bread
Read: Luke 24:36-45
Jesus Himself stood in the midst of them, and said to them, "Peace to you." —Luke 24:36
Surprise! Surprise! The eleven apostles had gathered together on the day of Jesus' resurrection. They were discussing the strange happenings of the past few days, and had just listened to a report from two men who said they had seen Jesus. Suddenly He was there! Then the Savior said, "Peace to you" (Luke 24:36).
I wonder if we realize when we meet together—at church, in our home, in our prayer meetings, in our gatherings with friends—that Jesus is also there. He said, "Lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age" (Matthew 28:20). Do we really believe He is with us and listens to every word we say, and that He sees all we do?
Some scholars were discussing the great authors of the past. One asked, "What if Milton should suddenly enter the room?" "Ah!" replied another. "We would honor him and compensate him for the little recognition he received in his day." A third man commented, "What if Shakespeare entered? Would we not all stand and proclaim him King of the Poets?" Then someone ventured, "And if Jesus Christ should enter?" There was a long silence, until finally one said: "But gentlemen, He is here!"
Yes, remember that Jesus is here! He sees, He hears, and He knows! —M. R. DeHaan, M.D.
Although we cannot see our Lord,
We know that He is here;
His promise is dependable:
He always will be near. —Hess
Our greatest privilege is to enjoy Christ's presence.
daily bread
Saturday, April 26, 2003
Hannah's Heartache
By Dena Dyer
All of us who have experienced the pain of waiting for answers can relate to Hannah.
"Then she left, and after eating something, she felt much better" (I Sam. 1:18).
The young woman took a deep breath. The bread in front of her looked like stone.
"Hannah, you haven't eaten in days," her husband Elkanah said gently. "You need nourishment."
Her rival shot her a menacing look. "Maybe that's why she's barren. She's too skinny."
"Hush, Pen," Elk said. "Leave her alone."
Peninnah glared at Hannah. "Sure, I'll leave her alone. Just like the Lord has."
Hannah stifled a sob and pushed away from the table. She ran out the door and into the place of worship, falling on her knees at the altar.
"Oh, Lord God," she cried. "You know I'm Your servant, but I am so miserable! Please, let me have a son. If You do, I will give him to You for as long as he lives!"
All of us who have experienced the pain of waiting for answers can relate to Hannah. The Bible says she prayed so fervently that the priest thought she was drunk. Nevertheless, she felt better after having poured her heart out to the Lord.
What strikes me about this story is that Hannah didn't yet have an answer to her request (the happy ending comes later in the book), but she knew the Lord well enough to leave her problems at His feet. She refused to worry herself sick, and she didn't take revenge on her rival. She knew God could be trusted, that He had her best interests at heart, and that He would deal out justice to her enemies--in His own way and time.
Do you and I believe these things about God? When someone says something unkind to you, do you lash out at them? I have often seethed in anger at people's careless remarks, instead of realizing that they don't understand my pain because they've never experienced it.
And how many times have I given my problems--infertility, financial crises, fears and doubts--to the Lord and then taken them back, convinced I can work them out on my own if I just knew more or tried harder?
Often, I say I believe in God's goodness, but I am afraid to surrender completely to Him. It's almost as if I believe He will require too much of me.
How much simpler our lives would be if we followed Hannah's example and left our problems at the altar. After all, "God is love, and . . . as we live in God, our love grows more perfect . . . Such love has no fear, because perfect love expels all fear." (I John 4:16-18).
cbn
By Dena Dyer
All of us who have experienced the pain of waiting for answers can relate to Hannah.
"Then she left, and after eating something, she felt much better" (I Sam. 1:18).
The young woman took a deep breath. The bread in front of her looked like stone.
"Hannah, you haven't eaten in days," her husband Elkanah said gently. "You need nourishment."
Her rival shot her a menacing look. "Maybe that's why she's barren. She's too skinny."
"Hush, Pen," Elk said. "Leave her alone."
Peninnah glared at Hannah. "Sure, I'll leave her alone. Just like the Lord has."
Hannah stifled a sob and pushed away from the table. She ran out the door and into the place of worship, falling on her knees at the altar.
"Oh, Lord God," she cried. "You know I'm Your servant, but I am so miserable! Please, let me have a son. If You do, I will give him to You for as long as he lives!"
All of us who have experienced the pain of waiting for answers can relate to Hannah. The Bible says she prayed so fervently that the priest thought she was drunk. Nevertheless, she felt better after having poured her heart out to the Lord.
What strikes me about this story is that Hannah didn't yet have an answer to her request (the happy ending comes later in the book), but she knew the Lord well enough to leave her problems at His feet. She refused to worry herself sick, and she didn't take revenge on her rival. She knew God could be trusted, that He had her best interests at heart, and that He would deal out justice to her enemies--in His own way and time.
Do you and I believe these things about God? When someone says something unkind to you, do you lash out at them? I have often seethed in anger at people's careless remarks, instead of realizing that they don't understand my pain because they've never experienced it.
And how many times have I given my problems--infertility, financial crises, fears and doubts--to the Lord and then taken them back, convinced I can work them out on my own if I just knew more or tried harder?
Often, I say I believe in God's goodness, but I am afraid to surrender completely to Him. It's almost as if I believe He will require too much of me.
How much simpler our lives would be if we followed Hannah's example and left our problems at the altar. After all, "God is love, and . . . as we live in God, our love grows more perfect . . . Such love has no fear, because perfect love expels all fear." (I John 4:16-18).
cbn
Just A Glimpse
Read: Ephesians 2:14-18
God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. —Galatians 6:14
Travelers who drive across the flat landscape of Groom, Texas, are surprised by an unexpected sight. Looming up against the sky is a cross 190 feet high. That giant symbol of the Christian faith was erected by Steve Thomas in the prayerful hope that the thoughts of anyone who sees it might be turned to Jesus. When his handiwork was finished and dedicated, he said, "We want some converts out of this."
All Christians are grateful when a nonbeliever's attention is drawn to Jesus Christ and the cross. The awareness may be fleeting, but who can predict what even a split-second reaction may mean to an immortal soul? Suddenly a sinful person may begin to wonder why Jesus died on the cross. This may prompt him to seek answers from the Bible or from Christians he may know.
What about us as Christians? As we hurry along through life's often dreary landscape, are we grateful for any reminder of our Father's love that sent His Son to die? Through the cross, Jesus has reconciled us to God and given us His peace (Ephesians 2:14,16). Take some time today to reflect on the meaning of the cross, and let it flood your heart with praise to the Savior. —Vernon Grounds
Once from the realms of infinite glory,
Down to the depths of our ruin and loss,
Jesus came, seeking—O Love's sweet story—
Came to the manger, the shame, and the cross. —Strickland
To know the meaning of the cross, you must know the One who died there.
daily bread
Read: Ephesians 2:14-18
God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. —Galatians 6:14
Travelers who drive across the flat landscape of Groom, Texas, are surprised by an unexpected sight. Looming up against the sky is a cross 190 feet high. That giant symbol of the Christian faith was erected by Steve Thomas in the prayerful hope that the thoughts of anyone who sees it might be turned to Jesus. When his handiwork was finished and dedicated, he said, "We want some converts out of this."
All Christians are grateful when a nonbeliever's attention is drawn to Jesus Christ and the cross. The awareness may be fleeting, but who can predict what even a split-second reaction may mean to an immortal soul? Suddenly a sinful person may begin to wonder why Jesus died on the cross. This may prompt him to seek answers from the Bible or from Christians he may know.
What about us as Christians? As we hurry along through life's often dreary landscape, are we grateful for any reminder of our Father's love that sent His Son to die? Through the cross, Jesus has reconciled us to God and given us His peace (Ephesians 2:14,16). Take some time today to reflect on the meaning of the cross, and let it flood your heart with praise to the Savior. —Vernon Grounds
Once from the realms of infinite glory,
Down to the depths of our ruin and loss,
Jesus came, seeking—O Love's sweet story—
Came to the manger, the shame, and the cross. —Strickland
To know the meaning of the cross, you must know the One who died there.
daily bread
Thursday, April 24, 2003
He Can Find You
By Tony Evans
Tony Evans talks about three ways Christ can encourage you in your trials.
"Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid." --- Matthew 14:27
Read It: Matthew 14:25-27
By the time Jesus came to the disciples in their trial, it was late -- and dark. But He came right on time with the word they needed. That's what He wants to do for you, too. Let me show you three ways Christ can encourage you in your trials.
First, because Jesus is God, He knows exactly where you are, and He can find you even in the dark. By now the disciples had been out in the boat about twelve hours without Jesus. So it wasn't when the storm hit that Jesus showed up, but He did show up. He may not have come when they wished He would, but He came on time.
Have you ever been in the middle of a trial and wondered where Jesus was? You've been out there on the stormy sea fighting for your life, and no Jesus. No problem -- at least not for Him. He'll arrive on time.
Second, remember that what you see is not necessarily all there is. What the disciples thought was a "sho-nuff" serious problem, a ghost coming out to scare them, turned out to be their salvation in the Person of Jesus.
The very thing that could be looking like the worst possible problem for you may be the thing the Savior uses to deliver you. What you may see as a source of great fear may be God's way of saying, "Take courage." Trials have a way of clouding your vision so that you may not really be seeing what you think you're seeing. That's why you must always look for Christ.
A third source of encouragement in trials is Jesus' authoritative word, "Do not be afraid." See, He did not change the disciples' circumstance. He changed them. He did not deal with what they were facing on the outside. He first calmed them down on the inside.
Jesus will do the same for you in your trials. Your circumstances are no sweat for Him. He can walk right over the top of your storm, because He's bigger than your problem. He wants you to learn that you can face the enemy on the outside because Jesus is with you on the inside.
Think About It
Jesus has you on His radar screen, and He will come just when you need Him. And He has no problem getting to you.
cbn
By Tony Evans
Tony Evans talks about three ways Christ can encourage you in your trials.
"Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid." --- Matthew 14:27
Read It: Matthew 14:25-27
By the time Jesus came to the disciples in their trial, it was late -- and dark. But He came right on time with the word they needed. That's what He wants to do for you, too. Let me show you three ways Christ can encourage you in your trials.
First, because Jesus is God, He knows exactly where you are, and He can find you even in the dark. By now the disciples had been out in the boat about twelve hours without Jesus. So it wasn't when the storm hit that Jesus showed up, but He did show up. He may not have come when they wished He would, but He came on time.
Have you ever been in the middle of a trial and wondered where Jesus was? You've been out there on the stormy sea fighting for your life, and no Jesus. No problem -- at least not for Him. He'll arrive on time.
Second, remember that what you see is not necessarily all there is. What the disciples thought was a "sho-nuff" serious problem, a ghost coming out to scare them, turned out to be their salvation in the Person of Jesus.
The very thing that could be looking like the worst possible problem for you may be the thing the Savior uses to deliver you. What you may see as a source of great fear may be God's way of saying, "Take courage." Trials have a way of clouding your vision so that you may not really be seeing what you think you're seeing. That's why you must always look for Christ.
A third source of encouragement in trials is Jesus' authoritative word, "Do not be afraid." See, He did not change the disciples' circumstance. He changed them. He did not deal with what they were facing on the outside. He first calmed them down on the inside.
Jesus will do the same for you in your trials. Your circumstances are no sweat for Him. He can walk right over the top of your storm, because He's bigger than your problem. He wants you to learn that you can face the enemy on the outside because Jesus is with you on the inside.
Think About It
Jesus has you on His radar screen, and He will come just when you need Him. And He has no problem getting to you.
cbn
Wednesday, April 23, 2003
Today's scripture is Galatians 5:16
"This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh."
Walking in the Spirit. That's the key to overcoming the flesh. If you follow the promptings of the Spirit of God within you, you won't be dominated by the pressure your flesh tries to put on you.
SCRIPTURE READING: 1 Corinthians 10:1-14
1 - Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea;
2 - And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea;
3 - And did all eat the same spiritual meat;
4 - And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ.
5 - But with many of them God was not well pleased: for they were overthrown in the wilderness.
6 - Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted.
7 - Neither be ye idolaters, as were some of them; as it is written, The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.
8 - Neither let us commit fornication, as some of them committed, and fell in one day three and twenty thousand.
9 - Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted, and were destroyed of serpents.
10 - Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed of the destroyer.
11 - Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.
12 - Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.
13 - There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.
14 - Wherefore, my dearly beloved, flee from idolatry.
bible shack
"This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh."
Walking in the Spirit. That's the key to overcoming the flesh. If you follow the promptings of the Spirit of God within you, you won't be dominated by the pressure your flesh tries to put on you.
SCRIPTURE READING: 1 Corinthians 10:1-14
1 - Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea;
2 - And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea;
3 - And did all eat the same spiritual meat;
4 - And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ.
5 - But with many of them God was not well pleased: for they were overthrown in the wilderness.
6 - Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted.
7 - Neither be ye idolaters, as were some of them; as it is written, The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.
8 - Neither let us commit fornication, as some of them committed, and fell in one day three and twenty thousand.
9 - Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted, and were destroyed of serpents.
10 - Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed of the destroyer.
11 - Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.
12 - Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.
13 - There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.
14 - Wherefore, my dearly beloved, flee from idolatry.
bible shack
Tuesday, April 22, 2003
The Answers Can Wait
Read: Luke 4:14-22
This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief. —1 Timothy 1:15
David Herwaldt, a thoughtful, reflective pastor friend of mine, was slowly dying after 50 years of faithful ministry. He often talked with me about the nature of God and the eternity he would soon enter. We realized that we had only a superficial grasp of these mysteries, but we were not distressed. We knew that God had rescued us from our sin and guilt, and we rejoiced in our salvation. We had all we needed to obey the Lord gladly, live confidently, and serve Him gratefully.
When we are distressed by our inability to answer life's most vexing questions, we must remember that Christ did not come to satisfy our curiosity. Rather, He saw us as fallen and hurt, and He came to lift and heal.
When Jesus read Isaiah 61:1-2 to the people in the synagogue (Luke 4:16-21), He presented Himself as the promised Messiah, whose primary purpose for coming was spiritual. He came to deliver us from the helplessness of our spiritual poverty, to release us from the shackles of our guilt, to heal our sin-caused blindness, and to set us free from sin's enslaving power.
Let us therefore trust Him and make obeying Him our highest goal. This is the path to a grateful, joyous, and hope-filled life. The answers can wait. —Herb Vander Lugt
When trouble seeks to rob your very breath,
When tragedy hits hard and steals your days,
Recall that Christ endured the sting of death;
He gives us hope, and merits all our praise. —Gustafson
Christ came not to satisfy our curiosity but to save our souls.
daily bread
Read: Luke 4:14-22
This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief. —1 Timothy 1:15
David Herwaldt, a thoughtful, reflective pastor friend of mine, was slowly dying after 50 years of faithful ministry. He often talked with me about the nature of God and the eternity he would soon enter. We realized that we had only a superficial grasp of these mysteries, but we were not distressed. We knew that God had rescued us from our sin and guilt, and we rejoiced in our salvation. We had all we needed to obey the Lord gladly, live confidently, and serve Him gratefully.
When we are distressed by our inability to answer life's most vexing questions, we must remember that Christ did not come to satisfy our curiosity. Rather, He saw us as fallen and hurt, and He came to lift and heal.
When Jesus read Isaiah 61:1-2 to the people in the synagogue (Luke 4:16-21), He presented Himself as the promised Messiah, whose primary purpose for coming was spiritual. He came to deliver us from the helplessness of our spiritual poverty, to release us from the shackles of our guilt, to heal our sin-caused blindness, and to set us free from sin's enslaving power.
Let us therefore trust Him and make obeying Him our highest goal. This is the path to a grateful, joyous, and hope-filled life. The answers can wait. —Herb Vander Lugt
When trouble seeks to rob your very breath,
When tragedy hits hard and steals your days,
Recall that Christ endured the sting of death;
He gives us hope, and merits all our praise. —Gustafson
Christ came not to satisfy our curiosity but to save our souls.
daily bread
Monday, April 21, 2003
Multicultural Wingdings
1 Corinthians 8:4-9
We thought it was just an innocent “wingding.” You know, that weird font on your computer that offers whimsical characters to spice up your page.
But the ornate design we chose for a book on wisdom turned out to be a Hindu symbol. Needless to say, the second printing of the book did not contain that wingding.
Now, God is not intimidated by the power suggested by this symbol. “The One who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world” (1 John 4:4), but the wingding must have had a disconcerting effect on Christians who were familiar with it.
That’s why a news item about a new cathedral troubled me. Its 25-ton bronze doors are adorned with “symbols of deities from around the world.” I’m all for appreciating other cultures, but this is a structure built for people who name the name of Jesus.
Idolatry is alive and well throughout the world. Even though the idols themselves are as unresponsive as pavement (Jeremiah 10:1-16), the demonic powers behind them are a real concern. Every culture has something unique and wonderful to contribute, but we must be on the alert for things that fly in the face of the direct teachings of Scripture.
The apostle Paul addressed this issue when he wrote to the Christians in Corinth—a city that offered meat to idols and then sold the meat in the marketplace. Some Christians were buying the meat and eating it. Others boycotted such food. “An idol is nothing at all in the world,” Paul wrote, “and . . . there is no God but one” (1 Corinthians 8:4). However, Paul also noted the link between “idolatry and witchcraft” in Galatians 5:20-21 and warned that people who embrace them “will not inherit the kingdom of God.”
In our increasingly diverse culture, idolatry has become a concern. It’s time to educate ourselves so we won’t offend other Christians, and so we can better share our faith with those who pray to gods who can’t hear them. —Tim Gustafson
bottom line: Be careful—idolatry can be hard to see.
soul journey
1 Corinthians 8:4-9
We thought it was just an innocent “wingding.” You know, that weird font on your computer that offers whimsical characters to spice up your page.
But the ornate design we chose for a book on wisdom turned out to be a Hindu symbol. Needless to say, the second printing of the book did not contain that wingding.
Now, God is not intimidated by the power suggested by this symbol. “The One who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world” (1 John 4:4), but the wingding must have had a disconcerting effect on Christians who were familiar with it.
That’s why a news item about a new cathedral troubled me. Its 25-ton bronze doors are adorned with “symbols of deities from around the world.” I’m all for appreciating other cultures, but this is a structure built for people who name the name of Jesus.
Idolatry is alive and well throughout the world. Even though the idols themselves are as unresponsive as pavement (Jeremiah 10:1-16), the demonic powers behind them are a real concern. Every culture has something unique and wonderful to contribute, but we must be on the alert for things that fly in the face of the direct teachings of Scripture.
The apostle Paul addressed this issue when he wrote to the Christians in Corinth—a city that offered meat to idols and then sold the meat in the marketplace. Some Christians were buying the meat and eating it. Others boycotted such food. “An idol is nothing at all in the world,” Paul wrote, “and . . . there is no God but one” (1 Corinthians 8:4). However, Paul also noted the link between “idolatry and witchcraft” in Galatians 5:20-21 and warned that people who embrace them “will not inherit the kingdom of God.”
In our increasingly diverse culture, idolatry has become a concern. It’s time to educate ourselves so we won’t offend other Christians, and so we can better share our faith with those who pray to gods who can’t hear them. —Tim Gustafson
bottom line: Be careful—idolatry can be hard to see.
soul journey
Sunday, April 20, 2003
Resurrection Reality
Read: Luke 24:1-12
I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. —Revelation 1:18
The disciples and early followers of our Lord asserted with a zeal born of heartfelt conviction that Jesus of Nazareth was a living Savior, not a martyred teacher and philosopher. They held this truth so dear that they were willing to suffer torture and death rather than renounce it.
This startling message so electrified their ministry that their testimony "turned the world upside down" (Acts 17:6). It is still true today: The Holy Spirit honors the witness of those who proclaim the resurrected Jesus. They do not point primarily to moral codes, religious rituals, or theological creeds (good as these may be in themselves), but to the living God-man who alone can save. It is to Him who is "alive forevermore" (Revelation 1:18) that we should look in these days of dead orthodoxy and spiritual apostasy.
A proud and ungodly professor said to a young child who believed in the Lord Jesus, "My dear little girl, you don't know whom you believe in. There have been many christs. In which of them do you believe?" "I know which one I believe in," replied the child. "I believe in the Christ who rose from the dead!"
Jesus is alive (Luke 24:1-12). Your eternal life depends on it. —Henry Bosch
Although our Lord was crucified,
He rose up from the grave;
He paid our penalty for sin,
Then showed His power to save. —Sper
Christ's resurrection assures what Calvary secures.
daily bread
Read: Luke 24:1-12
I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. —Revelation 1:18
The disciples and early followers of our Lord asserted with a zeal born of heartfelt conviction that Jesus of Nazareth was a living Savior, not a martyred teacher and philosopher. They held this truth so dear that they were willing to suffer torture and death rather than renounce it.
This startling message so electrified their ministry that their testimony "turned the world upside down" (Acts 17:6). It is still true today: The Holy Spirit honors the witness of those who proclaim the resurrected Jesus. They do not point primarily to moral codes, religious rituals, or theological creeds (good as these may be in themselves), but to the living God-man who alone can save. It is to Him who is "alive forevermore" (Revelation 1:18) that we should look in these days of dead orthodoxy and spiritual apostasy.
A proud and ungodly professor said to a young child who believed in the Lord Jesus, "My dear little girl, you don't know whom you believe in. There have been many christs. In which of them do you believe?" "I know which one I believe in," replied the child. "I believe in the Christ who rose from the dead!"
Jesus is alive (Luke 24:1-12). Your eternal life depends on it. —Henry Bosch
Although our Lord was crucified,
He rose up from the grave;
He paid our penalty for sin,
Then showed His power to save. —Sper
Christ's resurrection assures what Calvary secures.
daily bread
Saturday, April 19, 2003
Awaiting the Resurrection
By Laura Bagby
Personal reflections concerning the passion of Christ for Saturday.
Several times throughout the Gospels, Jesus told his disciples that he would die and rise again within three days (see Matthew 20:19, 27:63; Mark 8:31, 9:31, 10:34, Luke 18:33, 24:7, 24:46). Imagine the anticipation of this knowledge for those few who heard these words directly from the Lord Jesus Himself!
What patience and faith it must have taken to hang in for three days while the rest of the world thought the whole story was over. What those unbelievers did not realize was that God's main objective was beginning. Often it is what God is doing behind the scenes that we don't take notice of that is key. We think it is all over, but lo -- it is just beginning. And what a wonderful surprise the disciples got!
In our own periods of silence from the Lord in our lives, we conclude that God isn't there, that He does not hear us. But it is often those silent periods when God is working His will out in our lives. He may be changing your attitude or your belief system, or He may be working out the circumstances to prepare the future for you.
Remember: Even we were made in secret.
In Psalm 139:15, the psalmist writes, "My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place." We see nothing; but God sees the entire precious plan. That is the miracle of God's working power.
It is in the secret places, where the world does not see, that the amazing things of God happen. As we were formed in secret, we also know that Jesus did his most fervent praying in secret on a mountain.
And now on this day of waiting, God was doing the most miraculous secret work ever -- the work of redemption of the entire world through righteousness by Jesus Christ, who would reign not as a warrior on Earth, but as a spiritual warrior with a spiritual Kingdom and more power than any earthly politician.
Talk about reversing the status quo completely!
While the disciples waited, Christ was suffering and grappling in the literal pits of hell for past, present, and future sins of all of humanity.
Never underestimate what God is doing in your life. We owe Him all the praise for making the impossible possible, for changing the hearts of men, for saving us from a life of futility. Some of God's most important work in our lives is done when we cannot see, when God seems to be silent. Chances are He is doing things for you in His perfect timing.
cbn
By Laura Bagby
Personal reflections concerning the passion of Christ for Saturday.
Several times throughout the Gospels, Jesus told his disciples that he would die and rise again within three days (see Matthew 20:19, 27:63; Mark 8:31, 9:31, 10:34, Luke 18:33, 24:7, 24:46). Imagine the anticipation of this knowledge for those few who heard these words directly from the Lord Jesus Himself!
What patience and faith it must have taken to hang in for three days while the rest of the world thought the whole story was over. What those unbelievers did not realize was that God's main objective was beginning. Often it is what God is doing behind the scenes that we don't take notice of that is key. We think it is all over, but lo -- it is just beginning. And what a wonderful surprise the disciples got!
In our own periods of silence from the Lord in our lives, we conclude that God isn't there, that He does not hear us. But it is often those silent periods when God is working His will out in our lives. He may be changing your attitude or your belief system, or He may be working out the circumstances to prepare the future for you.
Remember: Even we were made in secret.
In Psalm 139:15, the psalmist writes, "My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place." We see nothing; but God sees the entire precious plan. That is the miracle of God's working power.
It is in the secret places, where the world does not see, that the amazing things of God happen. As we were formed in secret, we also know that Jesus did his most fervent praying in secret on a mountain.
And now on this day of waiting, God was doing the most miraculous secret work ever -- the work of redemption of the entire world through righteousness by Jesus Christ, who would reign not as a warrior on Earth, but as a spiritual warrior with a spiritual Kingdom and more power than any earthly politician.
Talk about reversing the status quo completely!
While the disciples waited, Christ was suffering and grappling in the literal pits of hell for past, present, and future sins of all of humanity.
Never underestimate what God is doing in your life. We owe Him all the praise for making the impossible possible, for changing the hearts of men, for saving us from a life of futility. Some of God's most important work in our lives is done when we cannot see, when God seems to be silent. Chances are He is doing things for you in His perfect timing.
cbn
Impetuous Peter and Me…
By Gail Casteen
When Jesus restored the ear of the soldier at His arrest, He changed the lives of two men forever.
Imagine facing the worst event of your life, knowing exactly what is coming and how very difficult it will be. Now imagine while struggling through that dark moment, helping a foe and a friend in one selfless move. It is hard to fathom, but it happened and is well documented.
It was in the Garden of Gethsemane. Jesus had been betrayed with a kiss and was being led away into the night to stand a mockery of a trial. In his best effort to protect his Messiah, Peter pulled his sword and severed the ear from the head of a soldier. Then Jesus made a highly unpredictable move. He touched and healed the man's ear!
When Jesus restored the ear of the soldier at His arrest, He changed the lives of two men forever. Of course, being the man of compassion that He was, Jesus certainly saw this soldier suffering and in agony from such a brutal wound. Even though he was one of the 'bad guys,' the love and compassion of Jesus reached beyond what the man was doing to the fact that he was hurting and needed healing.
When I was a child I could not understand why Jesus would help someone who was there with the intention of hurting Him. I knew I could never be as loving and forgiving as Jesus, and was not certain I wanted to try. As an adult I am thankful for the grace and mercy He extends to me because as it turns out, I am the bad guy.
There was another man impacted by Jesus' action. Jesus courageously rescued Peter that night. There Peter stood, bloody weapon in his hand, somewhat frustrated that he had missed his mark -- the soldier's head. Yet, his pride was perhaps somewhat pacified by the fact that he had made a notable statement of his allegiance to the Lord. He was more than willing to fight the bad guy to protect Jesus.
Between the moment he struck and when Jesus restored the man's ear, he realized the consequences he would have to pay for that action. He probably saw what Jesus did for him the instant it happened. When Jesus healed the soldier's ear, the evidence that would have supported prosecution for the attempted murder of an officer of the law vanished. There would be no argument in court against Peter regarding that incident. He was acquitted before he was accused!
Much in the same way Peter did that night, I commit a punishable offense, yet Jesus steps in and by His power and love removes the evidence. It is after I have done the damage that I see His action on my behalf has removed the evidence against me. My slate has been cleaned by the work of Jesus' blood.
In Lamentations 3: 21-23 the Bible says,
"Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness."
I hear Jesus' voice ringing in my head and heart, "Father forgive them, they know not what they do." Here I stand, undeserving, wrong, yet loved completely. He reaches out with compassion and mercy to heal my ear. Now, I can hear His message of love and life designed to restore and renew someone like me. When I am called to step up to the Judge's bench, there will be no evidence to hold against me. "Just as if I had never sinned."
cbn
By Gail Casteen
When Jesus restored the ear of the soldier at His arrest, He changed the lives of two men forever.
Imagine facing the worst event of your life, knowing exactly what is coming and how very difficult it will be. Now imagine while struggling through that dark moment, helping a foe and a friend in one selfless move. It is hard to fathom, but it happened and is well documented.
It was in the Garden of Gethsemane. Jesus had been betrayed with a kiss and was being led away into the night to stand a mockery of a trial. In his best effort to protect his Messiah, Peter pulled his sword and severed the ear from the head of a soldier. Then Jesus made a highly unpredictable move. He touched and healed the man's ear!
When Jesus restored the ear of the soldier at His arrest, He changed the lives of two men forever. Of course, being the man of compassion that He was, Jesus certainly saw this soldier suffering and in agony from such a brutal wound. Even though he was one of the 'bad guys,' the love and compassion of Jesus reached beyond what the man was doing to the fact that he was hurting and needed healing.
When I was a child I could not understand why Jesus would help someone who was there with the intention of hurting Him. I knew I could never be as loving and forgiving as Jesus, and was not certain I wanted to try. As an adult I am thankful for the grace and mercy He extends to me because as it turns out, I am the bad guy.
There was another man impacted by Jesus' action. Jesus courageously rescued Peter that night. There Peter stood, bloody weapon in his hand, somewhat frustrated that he had missed his mark -- the soldier's head. Yet, his pride was perhaps somewhat pacified by the fact that he had made a notable statement of his allegiance to the Lord. He was more than willing to fight the bad guy to protect Jesus.
Between the moment he struck and when Jesus restored the man's ear, he realized the consequences he would have to pay for that action. He probably saw what Jesus did for him the instant it happened. When Jesus healed the soldier's ear, the evidence that would have supported prosecution for the attempted murder of an officer of the law vanished. There would be no argument in court against Peter regarding that incident. He was acquitted before he was accused!
Much in the same way Peter did that night, I commit a punishable offense, yet Jesus steps in and by His power and love removes the evidence. It is after I have done the damage that I see His action on my behalf has removed the evidence against me. My slate has been cleaned by the work of Jesus' blood.
In Lamentations 3: 21-23 the Bible says,
"Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness."
I hear Jesus' voice ringing in my head and heart, "Father forgive them, they know not what they do." Here I stand, undeserving, wrong, yet loved completely. He reaches out with compassion and mercy to heal my ear. Now, I can hear His message of love and life designed to restore and renew someone like me. When I am called to step up to the Judge's bench, there will be no evidence to hold against me. "Just as if I had never sinned."
cbn
Thursday, April 17, 2003
Easter Baskets or Empty Tombs
By Martha Noebel
So you see, Easter isn't at all about Easter baskets full of candy, pretty clothes, or spring flowers. It's about an empty tomb. He is Risen, He is Risen Indeed!
I was living up North several years ago when I first heard the phrase, "He Is Risen; He Is Risen Indeed!" The pastor loved to say the first part, He Is Risen, and wait with a big smile on his face for the congregation to finish the statement. (He Is Risen Indeed.) This was a favorite ritual every Easter Sunday morning.
Why did the pastor like saying it? I guess He knew it would fit with the sermon that day. He was sort of priming the pump, so to speak, for what was to come. Then a wonderfully, well organized, properly prepared sermon on the death and resurrection of Christ would soon follow. Previous to this were three or four songs from the hymnal such as He Lives, He Arose, At Calvary, and At The Cross. It was the only Sunday we would sing these songs, so sing we did. We sang loudly and with a lot of heart.
I remember as a child that everyone wore fancy clothes on that day. It was the only Sunday that all the kids had new white shoes and pretty hats. Some of the girls even wore white gloves. Several of the moms and dads had a flower on their suits or dresses. An excitement was in the atmosphere. We knew an Easter egg hunt for all the children would begin after the service. There would be lots of beautifully colored hard boiled eggs, jelly beans inside plastic eggs, hard candy coated marshmallow eggs, and a very special large chocolate covered candy egg. At home I had a wonderful Easter basket filled with lots of candy and gum waiting for me too.
It marked the coming of spring. Pastel colors were everywhere. Flowers were blooming and the air was much warmer than a few weeks ago. It was such a happy time.
Now, I am older and I know Easter Sunday in a much different way. I now realize Easter is about death, burial, and resurrection. Jesus the Son of God was born so that one day He would die. He chose to become the sacrifice for your sins and mine.
The Bible says,
"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 NIV).
"For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God..." (Romans 3:23 NIV).
"For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Romans 6:23 NIV).
"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness" (I John 1:9 NIV).
It's so wonderful. By faith we simply believe in the great price that was paid for us. We sinned, Jesus died on a cross to pay for our sins, and on the third day rose from the grave. He is seated at the right hand of God making intercession for us.
He paid a very high price. He gave His life. He suffered so that we can live forever with God. If we believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, we are saved. There is no condemnation for the things we have done. And with each mistake we now make, forgiveness is still ours to receive.
The tomb where Jesus was buried and from where He rose was left empty. Only the grave clothes were left behind. Because of His great love for us, and the power of God living in us, we too will one day be caught up with Him in the air.
"After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever" (1 Thessalonians 4: 17).
Jesus is coming again for those of us who have asked Him to forgive us our sins. We are waiting for that day when the heavens will open and we will meet Him in the skies.
So you see, Easter isn't at all about Easter baskets full of candy, pretty clothes, or spring flowers. It's about an empty tomb. He is Risen, He is Risen Indeed!
cbn
By Martha Noebel
So you see, Easter isn't at all about Easter baskets full of candy, pretty clothes, or spring flowers. It's about an empty tomb. He is Risen, He is Risen Indeed!
I was living up North several years ago when I first heard the phrase, "He Is Risen; He Is Risen Indeed!" The pastor loved to say the first part, He Is Risen, and wait with a big smile on his face for the congregation to finish the statement. (He Is Risen Indeed.) This was a favorite ritual every Easter Sunday morning.
Why did the pastor like saying it? I guess He knew it would fit with the sermon that day. He was sort of priming the pump, so to speak, for what was to come. Then a wonderfully, well organized, properly prepared sermon on the death and resurrection of Christ would soon follow. Previous to this were three or four songs from the hymnal such as He Lives, He Arose, At Calvary, and At The Cross. It was the only Sunday we would sing these songs, so sing we did. We sang loudly and with a lot of heart.
I remember as a child that everyone wore fancy clothes on that day. It was the only Sunday that all the kids had new white shoes and pretty hats. Some of the girls even wore white gloves. Several of the moms and dads had a flower on their suits or dresses. An excitement was in the atmosphere. We knew an Easter egg hunt for all the children would begin after the service. There would be lots of beautifully colored hard boiled eggs, jelly beans inside plastic eggs, hard candy coated marshmallow eggs, and a very special large chocolate covered candy egg. At home I had a wonderful Easter basket filled with lots of candy and gum waiting for me too.
It marked the coming of spring. Pastel colors were everywhere. Flowers were blooming and the air was much warmer than a few weeks ago. It was such a happy time.
Now, I am older and I know Easter Sunday in a much different way. I now realize Easter is about death, burial, and resurrection. Jesus the Son of God was born so that one day He would die. He chose to become the sacrifice for your sins and mine.
The Bible says,
"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 NIV).
"For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God..." (Romans 3:23 NIV).
"For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Romans 6:23 NIV).
"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness" (I John 1:9 NIV).
It's so wonderful. By faith we simply believe in the great price that was paid for us. We sinned, Jesus died on a cross to pay for our sins, and on the third day rose from the grave. He is seated at the right hand of God making intercession for us.
He paid a very high price. He gave His life. He suffered so that we can live forever with God. If we believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, we are saved. There is no condemnation for the things we have done. And with each mistake we now make, forgiveness is still ours to receive.
The tomb where Jesus was buried and from where He rose was left empty. Only the grave clothes were left behind. Because of His great love for us, and the power of God living in us, we too will one day be caught up with Him in the air.
"After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever" (1 Thessalonians 4: 17).
Jesus is coming again for those of us who have asked Him to forgive us our sins. We are waiting for that day when the heavens will open and we will meet Him in the skies.
So you see, Easter isn't at all about Easter baskets full of candy, pretty clothes, or spring flowers. It's about an empty tomb. He is Risen, He is Risen Indeed!
cbn
Wednesday, April 16, 2003
Laughter Restored
By Kathy Schultz
God can turn your mourning back into joy.
Laughter, a truly delightful sound, was coming from my 10-year-old granddaughter, Shelbi. It was Saturday night and she was in my bed having a "sleepover," as she called it. Silliness had overcome us both as we were settling down to sleep.
Since my husband went home to be with the Lord, laughter had been missing in my life. There was some laughter, but not often. Jerry had been the humorous one in our home, and I missed the sound of his laughter and the jokes that he told over and over again.
As I listened to Shelbi laugh and tease, I realized that God had passed the gift of laughter and joy on to my granddaughter. She has that same sense of humor and teasing way about her. It is the same twinkle and joy that had defined my husband.
Isn’t God wonderful to pass blessings down from one generation to another? We have all read the Scripture that says the sins of the father rest on the next generation, but I had discovered the opposite is true as well (see Exodus 20:5-6).
I began remembering the promises spoken in the Scripture concerning mourning (Isaiah 61: 2-4, Jeremiah 31:12-14). I had just seen those promises come to life through the blessing of my granddaughter’s laughter.
My mourning hadn’t been transformed into laughter and joy overnight. The beginning of my grief had seemed unbearable, but God had taken me through those dark hours. I had placed my hope in Him. I had gotten up each morning and resolved, with God’s help, that I would get through the day. Each morning His mercies were new.
"Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each day. I say to myself, The Lord is my inheritance; therefore, I will hope in him" (Lamentations 3:23-24, New Living Translation)!
"Without wavering, let us hold tightly to the hope we say we have, for God can be trusted to keep his promise" (Hebrews 10:23, New Living Translation).
During this time, blessings occurred; my friends hugged me, cried with me, held me up in prayer, and somehow I moved from dark emptiness to a smile. I began to forget the sadness and I actually enjoyed some moments here and there. Those moments came seldom at first, and then more often.
And now this night I was aware that I was really laughing.
"…God blesses you who weep now, for the time will come when you will laugh with joy" (Luke 6:21b, New Living Translation).
"You have turned my mourning into joyful dancing. You have taken away my clothes of mourning and clothed me with joy, that I might sing praises to you and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give you thanks forever" (Psalm 30:11-12, New Living Translation)!
This joy has a new purpose in my life. I am here to praise God, not to be silent. I am here to tell the message of His love and His provision to others, particularly my grandchildren. My life has meaning once again. Dancing in the dark was not an option, as I could trip over my feet walking in the daylight; now the joy is back! God has kept His promise. My hope was well founded. My wonderful, happy, joyful husband would have been in agreement.
If you need to have joy restored, place your hope in the Lord. You may, like me, have to wait to see the fulfillment of His promise. But your laughter and joy will be restored!
cbn
By Kathy Schultz
God can turn your mourning back into joy.
Laughter, a truly delightful sound, was coming from my 10-year-old granddaughter, Shelbi. It was Saturday night and she was in my bed having a "sleepover," as she called it. Silliness had overcome us both as we were settling down to sleep.
Since my husband went home to be with the Lord, laughter had been missing in my life. There was some laughter, but not often. Jerry had been the humorous one in our home, and I missed the sound of his laughter and the jokes that he told over and over again.
As I listened to Shelbi laugh and tease, I realized that God had passed the gift of laughter and joy on to my granddaughter. She has that same sense of humor and teasing way about her. It is the same twinkle and joy that had defined my husband.
Isn’t God wonderful to pass blessings down from one generation to another? We have all read the Scripture that says the sins of the father rest on the next generation, but I had discovered the opposite is true as well (see Exodus 20:5-6).
I began remembering the promises spoken in the Scripture concerning mourning (Isaiah 61: 2-4, Jeremiah 31:12-14). I had just seen those promises come to life through the blessing of my granddaughter’s laughter.
My mourning hadn’t been transformed into laughter and joy overnight. The beginning of my grief had seemed unbearable, but God had taken me through those dark hours. I had placed my hope in Him. I had gotten up each morning and resolved, with God’s help, that I would get through the day. Each morning His mercies were new.
"Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each day. I say to myself, The Lord is my inheritance; therefore, I will hope in him" (Lamentations 3:23-24, New Living Translation)!
"Without wavering, let us hold tightly to the hope we say we have, for God can be trusted to keep his promise" (Hebrews 10:23, New Living Translation).
During this time, blessings occurred; my friends hugged me, cried with me, held me up in prayer, and somehow I moved from dark emptiness to a smile. I began to forget the sadness and I actually enjoyed some moments here and there. Those moments came seldom at first, and then more often.
And now this night I was aware that I was really laughing.
"…God blesses you who weep now, for the time will come when you will laugh with joy" (Luke 6:21b, New Living Translation).
"You have turned my mourning into joyful dancing. You have taken away my clothes of mourning and clothed me with joy, that I might sing praises to you and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give you thanks forever" (Psalm 30:11-12, New Living Translation)!
This joy has a new purpose in my life. I am here to praise God, not to be silent. I am here to tell the message of His love and His provision to others, particularly my grandchildren. My life has meaning once again. Dancing in the dark was not an option, as I could trip over my feet walking in the daylight; now the joy is back! God has kept His promise. My hope was well founded. My wonderful, happy, joyful husband would have been in agreement.
If you need to have joy restored, place your hope in the Lord. You may, like me, have to wait to see the fulfillment of His promise. But your laughter and joy will be restored!
cbn
Tuesday, April 15, 2003
God Can Save Anyone!
Read: 1 Timothy 2:1-8
Therefore I exhort . . . that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men. —1 Timothy 2:1
Today, as always, there is an urgent need for us to pray for "all who are in authority" (1 Timothy 2:2). But does the word all include the most wicked of leaders? Are there ever people in positions of power and influence who are beyond the help of prayer?
The answer to this question can be found by noting the word therefore in verse 1, which calls our attention to the immediate context. In 1 Timothy 1:12-17, Paul admitted that he was once a blasphemer, a persecutor, and a violent man (v.13). He vigorously affirmed that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners. Then he added this significant phrase: "of whom I am chief" (v.15).
Paul explained that he received God's mercy so that Christ would display His limitless grace in him as a pattern for those who are going to believe on Him in the future (v.16). In effect, Paul was saying, "If I, the worst of sinners, can be saved, anyone can." Paul therefore exhorted us to pray for all in authority, because God our Savior desires all to be saved and to embrace His truth (2:4).
So let's not only pray that honorable leaders will act wisely, but also that ungodly leaders will be saved. Yes, God can save anyone. —Joanie Yoder
No leader is beyond God's grace
When righteous people pray;
For when God's children intercede,
The Lord will have His way. —D. De Haan
To influence leaders for God, intercede with God for leaders.
daily bread
Read: 1 Timothy 2:1-8
Therefore I exhort . . . that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men. —1 Timothy 2:1
Today, as always, there is an urgent need for us to pray for "all who are in authority" (1 Timothy 2:2). But does the word all include the most wicked of leaders? Are there ever people in positions of power and influence who are beyond the help of prayer?
The answer to this question can be found by noting the word therefore in verse 1, which calls our attention to the immediate context. In 1 Timothy 1:12-17, Paul admitted that he was once a blasphemer, a persecutor, and a violent man (v.13). He vigorously affirmed that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners. Then he added this significant phrase: "of whom I am chief" (v.15).
Paul explained that he received God's mercy so that Christ would display His limitless grace in him as a pattern for those who are going to believe on Him in the future (v.16). In effect, Paul was saying, "If I, the worst of sinners, can be saved, anyone can." Paul therefore exhorted us to pray for all in authority, because God our Savior desires all to be saved and to embrace His truth (2:4).
So let's not only pray that honorable leaders will act wisely, but also that ungodly leaders will be saved. Yes, God can save anyone. —Joanie Yoder
No leader is beyond God's grace
When righteous people pray;
For when God's children intercede,
The Lord will have His way. —D. De Haan
To influence leaders for God, intercede with God for leaders.
daily bread
Monday, April 14, 2003
Recruiting Effort
Revelation 5:11-14
It usually starts in August. Notices begin to appear in the church bulletin that say something like this: “Choir season is approaching, and we need both old and new voices. Plan now to sing with our choir. Rehearsals on Wednesday evening, from 6:30 to 8:00. All are welcome.”
A couple of weeks later, this announcement appears: “You still have time to sign up for the choir. First rehearsal is Wednesday, September 8, in the sanctuary. Bring a friend.”
The next week: “We have an urgent need for more voices in our choir. We will be singing some exciting new music and some old favorites. Donuts and coffee provided.”
Sunday morning. The choir director makes this verbal announcement: “Choir rehearsals begin Wednesday night, and we need more singers. Especially tenors. If you’ve sung with us before, you know how much fun we have. The donuts are Krispy Kremes—fresh!”
Recruiting for choir is a tough job. It takes reminders, pleas, bribes, and even threats. Finally, in the course of a message on serving sacrificially, the pastor may say, “Some of our good singers haven’t joined the choir yet. Come on, I’m giving you my personal invitation. Are you going to make me call you?”
Maybe you’re thinking, I’m glad I don’t have the responsibility of finding people to fill your choir. I’d sure hate to beg and plead like that!
But you do have that job! Every one of us is a recruiter for heaven’s choir (Revelation 5:13). Each of us is commanded by the Lord Jesus to go tell people the good news of the gospel (Matthew 28:18-20). When a person receives Christ, he is born into the family of God, his sins are forgiven, and he is bound for heaven. We’ll join a heavenly choir in singing praise to the Lamb of God. He’ll combine our voices with every creature in heaven and on earth, to sing great hymns of praise to the King of kings and Lord of lords. Whom can I recruit for the “heavenly choir”? —Dave Egner
bottom line: To recruit for Christ is a high pursuit.
soul journey
Revelation 5:11-14
It usually starts in August. Notices begin to appear in the church bulletin that say something like this: “Choir season is approaching, and we need both old and new voices. Plan now to sing with our choir. Rehearsals on Wednesday evening, from 6:30 to 8:00. All are welcome.”
A couple of weeks later, this announcement appears: “You still have time to sign up for the choir. First rehearsal is Wednesday, September 8, in the sanctuary. Bring a friend.”
The next week: “We have an urgent need for more voices in our choir. We will be singing some exciting new music and some old favorites. Donuts and coffee provided.”
Sunday morning. The choir director makes this verbal announcement: “Choir rehearsals begin Wednesday night, and we need more singers. Especially tenors. If you’ve sung with us before, you know how much fun we have. The donuts are Krispy Kremes—fresh!”
Recruiting for choir is a tough job. It takes reminders, pleas, bribes, and even threats. Finally, in the course of a message on serving sacrificially, the pastor may say, “Some of our good singers haven’t joined the choir yet. Come on, I’m giving you my personal invitation. Are you going to make me call you?”
Maybe you’re thinking, I’m glad I don’t have the responsibility of finding people to fill your choir. I’d sure hate to beg and plead like that!
But you do have that job! Every one of us is a recruiter for heaven’s choir (Revelation 5:13). Each of us is commanded by the Lord Jesus to go tell people the good news of the gospel (Matthew 28:18-20). When a person receives Christ, he is born into the family of God, his sins are forgiven, and he is bound for heaven. We’ll join a heavenly choir in singing praise to the Lamb of God. He’ll combine our voices with every creature in heaven and on earth, to sing great hymns of praise to the King of kings and Lord of lords. Whom can I recruit for the “heavenly choir”? —Dave Egner
bottom line: To recruit for Christ is a high pursuit.
soul journey
Sunday, April 13, 2003
The King's Offer
Read: Matthew 21:1-11
The multitudes . . . cried out, saying: "Hosanna to the Son of David! 'Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!'" —Matthew 21:9
I have often wondered how many of those people who enthusiastically cried, "Hosanna!" on Palm Sunday shouted, "Crucify Him! Crucify Him!" a few days later. Some may have been keenly disappointed, even angry, that Christ didn't use His miraculous power to establish an earthly kingdom. Hadn't He created a golden opportunity to rally popular support by parading into Jerusalem and offering Himself as King?
Many Jews failed to recognize that before Jesus would openly assert His sovereignty He had to rule in their hearts. Their greatest need was not to be freed from Caesar's rule but to be released from the chains of pride, self-righteousness, and rebellion against God. They wanted the visible kingdom prophesied in the Old Testament with all its material benefits. But the Messiah first had to die for the sins of mankind and rise again to establish the basis for a spiritual rule.
The issue is the same today. Christ does not offer immunity from life's hardships, a cure for every disease, or the promise of financial success. What the King offered then is what He offers today—Himself as the sacrifice for our sins, and a challenge to serve Him. If we accept His offer, we will not be disappointed. —Dennis De Haan
There's no disappointment in Jesus,
He's all that He promised to be;
His love and His care comfort me everywhere;
He is no disappointment to me. —Hallett
Putting Christ first brings satisfaction that lasts.
daily bread
Read: Matthew 21:1-11
The multitudes . . . cried out, saying: "Hosanna to the Son of David! 'Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!'" —Matthew 21:9
I have often wondered how many of those people who enthusiastically cried, "Hosanna!" on Palm Sunday shouted, "Crucify Him! Crucify Him!" a few days later. Some may have been keenly disappointed, even angry, that Christ didn't use His miraculous power to establish an earthly kingdom. Hadn't He created a golden opportunity to rally popular support by parading into Jerusalem and offering Himself as King?
Many Jews failed to recognize that before Jesus would openly assert His sovereignty He had to rule in their hearts. Their greatest need was not to be freed from Caesar's rule but to be released from the chains of pride, self-righteousness, and rebellion against God. They wanted the visible kingdom prophesied in the Old Testament with all its material benefits. But the Messiah first had to die for the sins of mankind and rise again to establish the basis for a spiritual rule.
The issue is the same today. Christ does not offer immunity from life's hardships, a cure for every disease, or the promise of financial success. What the King offered then is what He offers today—Himself as the sacrifice for our sins, and a challenge to serve Him. If we accept His offer, we will not be disappointed. —Dennis De Haan
There's no disappointment in Jesus,
He's all that He promised to be;
His love and His care comfort me everywhere;
He is no disappointment to me. —Hallett
Putting Christ first brings satisfaction that lasts.
daily bread
Saturday, April 12, 2003
Pet Lamb
By Kathy Schultz
"Think about it Grandma, we sing 'Worthy is the Lamb' in church, so He had a lamb."
Most mornings my granddaughter and I have devotions together. I used to read to her, but as a second grader she likes to do the reading. I love encouraging her to read, especially God's Word. An added bonus is the bond that we have developed over the past year. The discussions we have are usually lively and often I am taught new truths from God's Word as well. I realize God can and does use others to teach us, and the other morning was one of those moments. What a blessing!
We are reading "More Little Visits With God" by Allan Hart Jahsman and Martin P. Simon. The title of the story was, "Your Pets and You". A little boy wanted a puppy in the story and Alexandra easily identified with the child. The scripture basis was:
A good man cares for the life of his animals, but the love of the wicked is cruel (Proverbs 12:10).
The father was letting the little boy know that he would need to take care of a puppy. With blessings come responsibilities and the father wanted to make sure the little boy knew God expected him to take care of a new puppy. The story ended with the little boy understanding, memorizing the scripture from God's Word, agreeing to do what it said, and getting his puppy.
At the end of each story are a few questions starting with the basics such as whom, what and when. Alexandra loves to have me answer them when she reads. Mind you, these questions are for children, so you would think, piece of cake. I have noticed that sometimes they are much harder than I anticipate, but usually I'm okay. She enjoys letting you know if you're correct.
Well, this morning I was on a roll and thought I was doing pretty well until I heard her say, "No, Grandma, that is not right". Now, let's see how you would answer. The question was hypothetical. "What pet do you think Jesus might have had as a boy?" Now my imagination is not that wild, so I came to what I thought was a very good answer. A dog! After all, the boy in the story wanted a dog, so that seemed like a very logical conclusion. Wrong! She began by telling me, "Think about it Grandma, we sing 'Worthy is the Lamb' in church, so He had a lamb." Was I surprised to hear her answer! It meant she had been listening. I know that Jesus was the Lamb of God, slain from the foundation of the world.
Worthy is the Lamb, who is slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise! (Revelation 5:12).
That is what the phrase usually means, but in her reasoning was a wonderful truth. After all, isn't Jesus the Good Shepherd and aren't we often like sheep? I quickly agreed with her and went to work thinking about being Jesus' pet lamb.
He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart (Isaiah 40:11).
What a great picture the Bible gives us. Think with me how you, like me, are so special to our Lord that He loves us as little pet lambs. He even carries us in His arms, close to His heart. The twenty-third Psalm comes to mind and tells us we are totally cared for by the Shepherd.
The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not be in want… (Psalm 23).
cbn
By Kathy Schultz
"Think about it Grandma, we sing 'Worthy is the Lamb' in church, so He had a lamb."
Most mornings my granddaughter and I have devotions together. I used to read to her, but as a second grader she likes to do the reading. I love encouraging her to read, especially God's Word. An added bonus is the bond that we have developed over the past year. The discussions we have are usually lively and often I am taught new truths from God's Word as well. I realize God can and does use others to teach us, and the other morning was one of those moments. What a blessing!
We are reading "More Little Visits With God" by Allan Hart Jahsman and Martin P. Simon. The title of the story was, "Your Pets and You". A little boy wanted a puppy in the story and Alexandra easily identified with the child. The scripture basis was:
A good man cares for the life of his animals, but the love of the wicked is cruel (Proverbs 12:10).
The father was letting the little boy know that he would need to take care of a puppy. With blessings come responsibilities and the father wanted to make sure the little boy knew God expected him to take care of a new puppy. The story ended with the little boy understanding, memorizing the scripture from God's Word, agreeing to do what it said, and getting his puppy.
At the end of each story are a few questions starting with the basics such as whom, what and when. Alexandra loves to have me answer them when she reads. Mind you, these questions are for children, so you would think, piece of cake. I have noticed that sometimes they are much harder than I anticipate, but usually I'm okay. She enjoys letting you know if you're correct.
Well, this morning I was on a roll and thought I was doing pretty well until I heard her say, "No, Grandma, that is not right". Now, let's see how you would answer. The question was hypothetical. "What pet do you think Jesus might have had as a boy?" Now my imagination is not that wild, so I came to what I thought was a very good answer. A dog! After all, the boy in the story wanted a dog, so that seemed like a very logical conclusion. Wrong! She began by telling me, "Think about it Grandma, we sing 'Worthy is the Lamb' in church, so He had a lamb." Was I surprised to hear her answer! It meant she had been listening. I know that Jesus was the Lamb of God, slain from the foundation of the world.
Worthy is the Lamb, who is slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise! (Revelation 5:12).
That is what the phrase usually means, but in her reasoning was a wonderful truth. After all, isn't Jesus the Good Shepherd and aren't we often like sheep? I quickly agreed with her and went to work thinking about being Jesus' pet lamb.
He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart (Isaiah 40:11).
What a great picture the Bible gives us. Think with me how you, like me, are so special to our Lord that He loves us as little pet lambs. He even carries us in His arms, close to His heart. The twenty-third Psalm comes to mind and tells us we are totally cared for by the Shepherd.
The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not be in want… (Psalm 23).
cbn
Thursday, April 10, 2003
No One There … Or?
By Ruth Waff
I opened my Bible and my eyes fell on a scripture that I had read many times before, but never with the meaning it had for me that day. "When they looked up, they saw no one except Jesus" (Matt. 17:8).
It was Friday night and I was feeling pretty discouraged.
My church had asked me to pioneer a ministry to a special ethnic group. After prayer I knew it was God's purpose for me, and I gladly accepted.
A few weeks into this, I felt pretty lonely. When you pioneer something, there is no previous framework to follow. The only mandate I had was "reach them for Christ." I didn't have anyone to work with me. I was pretty much on my own. Where do I start? What do I do?
I called one of my friends -- she wasn't home. I called another one -- no answer. I called a third one -- same result. Wasn't there anyone who had time for me? I really needed to talk to somebody. I was feeling so down.
That's when I opened my Bible and my eyes fell on a scripture that I had read many times before, but never with the meaning it had for me that day.
When they looked up, they saw no one except Jesus (Matt. 17:8).
I started crying before Him. My friends where not there right then, but Jesus was. He had been there all along. I talked to Him for a long while. I told Him of my insecurities, and that I did not know what to do next. His love filled the room and peace filled my soul.
After a few hours I was full of joy, peace, purpose, and the knowledge of what to do next.
I woke up early the next morning. I couldn't wait to get going. With my guitar in hand I headed for the square where this group of people frequently gathered. It was in the middle of the winter, with cold and snow, but I had only one goal in my mind; to sing them into the Kingdom.
So out came the guitar, and I sat down on a bench in the square and started singing in their language. It didn't take long before I could see them stand here and there listening. A few weeks later the first family received the Lord as their Savior, and many followed over the next couple of years.
God is so awesome! Sometimes we get so caught up in the daily things that we forget that He is right there, even when everybody else is gone. And the greatest thing is that He has the best answer!
Maybe you've been feeling alone, with no one to share your burdens. You know what? You are not alone. Jesus is right there! And He does have the answer, or the touch, or the peace, or the joy… or whatever the depth of your soul is screaming for.
Just talk to Him.
cbn
By Ruth Waff
I opened my Bible and my eyes fell on a scripture that I had read many times before, but never with the meaning it had for me that day. "When they looked up, they saw no one except Jesus" (Matt. 17:8).
It was Friday night and I was feeling pretty discouraged.
My church had asked me to pioneer a ministry to a special ethnic group. After prayer I knew it was God's purpose for me, and I gladly accepted.
A few weeks into this, I felt pretty lonely. When you pioneer something, there is no previous framework to follow. The only mandate I had was "reach them for Christ." I didn't have anyone to work with me. I was pretty much on my own. Where do I start? What do I do?
I called one of my friends -- she wasn't home. I called another one -- no answer. I called a third one -- same result. Wasn't there anyone who had time for me? I really needed to talk to somebody. I was feeling so down.
That's when I opened my Bible and my eyes fell on a scripture that I had read many times before, but never with the meaning it had for me that day.
When they looked up, they saw no one except Jesus (Matt. 17:8).
I started crying before Him. My friends where not there right then, but Jesus was. He had been there all along. I talked to Him for a long while. I told Him of my insecurities, and that I did not know what to do next. His love filled the room and peace filled my soul.
After a few hours I was full of joy, peace, purpose, and the knowledge of what to do next.
I woke up early the next morning. I couldn't wait to get going. With my guitar in hand I headed for the square where this group of people frequently gathered. It was in the middle of the winter, with cold and snow, but I had only one goal in my mind; to sing them into the Kingdom.
So out came the guitar, and I sat down on a bench in the square and started singing in their language. It didn't take long before I could see them stand here and there listening. A few weeks later the first family received the Lord as their Savior, and many followed over the next couple of years.
God is so awesome! Sometimes we get so caught up in the daily things that we forget that He is right there, even when everybody else is gone. And the greatest thing is that He has the best answer!
Maybe you've been feeling alone, with no one to share your burdens. You know what? You are not alone. Jesus is right there! And He does have the answer, or the touch, or the peace, or the joy… or whatever the depth of your soul is screaming for.
Just talk to Him.
cbn
Wednesday, April 09, 2003
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
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
Tuesday, April 08, 2003
Lighten The Load
Read: Philippians 4:10-20
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. —Philippians 4:13
I once read about a distraught Christian woman who was extremely upset because her children had become unruly. She telephoned her husband at work one day and tearfully described the visit of a friend who had pinned this verse above the kitchen sink: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" (Philippians 4:13). The friend had meant well. She was trying to be helpful, but her action just made the mom feel even more like a failure.
Sometimes it's not helpful merely to quote a Scripture verse to someone. Philippians 4:13 was Paul's personal testimony that he had learned to be content in all situations, in plenty and in want (vv.11-12). His secret of contentment was that he could "do all things through Christ" who strengthened him (v.13).
We too can live by Paul's secret. We can be victorious through Christ's strength, but we shouldn't force this truth on people who are feeling overwhelmed. Paul also wrote that we should care for one another and share in one another's distress (Galatians 6:2; Philippians 2:4; 4:14).
We need each other, for we all have burdens to bear. Let's use the strength Christ gives us to minister to the needs of others and find ways to lighten their loads. —Joanie Yoder
PUTTING IT INTO PRACTICE
Who needs your encouragement today?
What are some practical ways you can help?
Write a note? Make a meal? Babysit? Just listen?
To ease another's burden, help to carry it.
daily bread
Read: Philippians 4:10-20
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. —Philippians 4:13
I once read about a distraught Christian woman who was extremely upset because her children had become unruly. She telephoned her husband at work one day and tearfully described the visit of a friend who had pinned this verse above the kitchen sink: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" (Philippians 4:13). The friend had meant well. She was trying to be helpful, but her action just made the mom feel even more like a failure.
Sometimes it's not helpful merely to quote a Scripture verse to someone. Philippians 4:13 was Paul's personal testimony that he had learned to be content in all situations, in plenty and in want (vv.11-12). His secret of contentment was that he could "do all things through Christ" who strengthened him (v.13).
We too can live by Paul's secret. We can be victorious through Christ's strength, but we shouldn't force this truth on people who are feeling overwhelmed. Paul also wrote that we should care for one another and share in one another's distress (Galatians 6:2; Philippians 2:4; 4:14).
We need each other, for we all have burdens to bear. Let's use the strength Christ gives us to minister to the needs of others and find ways to lighten their loads. —Joanie Yoder
PUTTING IT INTO PRACTICE
Who needs your encouragement today?
What are some practical ways you can help?
Write a note? Make a meal? Babysit? Just listen?
To ease another's burden, help to carry it.
daily bread
Monday, April 07, 2003
Our Understanding Savior
Hebrews 4:13-16
The old refrain "What a Friend We Have in Jesus" resonates with so many of us because we all need a friend who can empathize with us in every circumstance. Jesus walked among the men whom He would save in order to relate to individuals and to make those individuals realize that they could approach Him.
Joseph Scriven learned he could share his heart with a Savior who knew on a personal level exactly what Scriven was facing. In 1857, Scriven wrote "What a Friend We Have in Jesus." Many Christians know by heart the famous first verse, but few are aware of the powerful words in the second verse:
"Have we trials and temptations? Is there trouble anywhere? We should never be discouraged. Take it to the Lord in prayer. Can we find a friend so faithful—who will all our sorrows share? Jesus knows our every weakness. Take it to the Lord in prayer."
Scriven knew the legitimacy of Christ’s friendship. He knew Christ had suffered, so it was easy for Scriven’s friendship with Christ to deepen when, the night before his scheduled wedding, Scriven’s fiancée drowned. Scriven in his grief left Ireland for Canada.
There, his great hymn itself was born of anguish. The hymn was a part of a letter that he sent to his ill mother back in Ireland. He simply was reminding her how to get in touch with an old Friend.
in touch ministries
Hebrews 4:13-16
The old refrain "What a Friend We Have in Jesus" resonates with so many of us because we all need a friend who can empathize with us in every circumstance. Jesus walked among the men whom He would save in order to relate to individuals and to make those individuals realize that they could approach Him.
Joseph Scriven learned he could share his heart with a Savior who knew on a personal level exactly what Scriven was facing. In 1857, Scriven wrote "What a Friend We Have in Jesus." Many Christians know by heart the famous first verse, but few are aware of the powerful words in the second verse:
"Have we trials and temptations? Is there trouble anywhere? We should never be discouraged. Take it to the Lord in prayer. Can we find a friend so faithful—who will all our sorrows share? Jesus knows our every weakness. Take it to the Lord in prayer."
Scriven knew the legitimacy of Christ’s friendship. He knew Christ had suffered, so it was easy for Scriven’s friendship with Christ to deepen when, the night before his scheduled wedding, Scriven’s fiancée drowned. Scriven in his grief left Ireland for Canada.
There, his great hymn itself was born of anguish. The hymn was a part of a letter that he sent to his ill mother back in Ireland. He simply was reminding her how to get in touch with an old Friend.
in touch ministries
Sunday, April 06, 2003
God In The Everyday
By Martha Noebel
My heart was filled with compassion for her. Without even thinking, I asked her if I could pray for her right now. Surprisingly to me, she said yes.
Is healing for today? Does God really want to use his people to minister healing to others? Can anyone be healed? Do I have to go to church to be prayed for so I can be healed?
These are all real questions asked by hurting people on a regular basis. I have a story I would like to share. You be the judge.
I was in the car with my teenage daughter getting ready to go to the store. I pulled partially out of the driveway and then noticed my neighbor across the street. She was in her driveway taking the groceries out of her car. I stopped the car and went across the street to speak to her for a moment. I did not have any idea what God was getting ready to do through me. I just wanted to ask her a question.
We talked for a moment or two and then as I turned to leave she told me she wanted me to remember her in prayer. (Now to my knowledge, she does not have a personal relationship with God.) However, she was hurting and wanted help. She shared with me that the doctor had diagnosed her with macular degeneration of the eyes. I thought to myself that this was one of those ugly diseases for which there was little or no cure.
My heart was filled with compassion for her. Without even thinking, I asked her if I could pray for her right now. Surprisingly to me, she said yes. I grabbed her hands while we were standing in the driveway and began to pray. I felt the power of God as I prayed and I knew God was doing something great! She stood there with tears in her eyes and thanked me for praying. We hugged and I left feeling really excited. My daughter watched the whole thing and wanted to know what had happened. I told her and asked her to also help me pray for this precious neighbor.
A few days later my daughter came into the house and said she had been talking to our neighbor. The neighbor told my daughter she would have to learn to see through what looked like a black spot in the middle of her eye forever. Her eye had healed some but this was the best it would get. My daughter told her that the doctor's report is not necessarily true. She told her the spot in her eye can be healed and that God could do it. The neighbor didn't seem to believe what she was hearing. She only knew she had an eye disease that was making seeing a challenge.
It wasn't long, only a few short weeks, and my neighbor was calling out to me while standing in her yard. She said to tell the prayer group who had been praying for her that it worked. I was ecstatic! The only prayer group was my daughter and myself. God had used a short prayer in a driveway to change someone's life forever. She was healed!
The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, for he has appointed me to preach Good News to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim that captives will be released, that the blind will see, that the downtrodden will be freed from their oppressors, and that the time of the Lord's favor has come (Luke 4:18, 19 New Living Translation).
I told her in the prayer for her that God would get all the glory. This is why I am writing this article. It is all HIS. Praise the Lord! I am so thankful I took the time to pray. I am glad my daughter has learned that the report we listen to is not the doctor's report but the report of the Lord.
If God speaks to you in your "Everyday" living, go for it. He is the "God In The Everyday." He wants to use whoever is willing to step out. The results will amaze you.
cbn
By Martha Noebel
My heart was filled with compassion for her. Without even thinking, I asked her if I could pray for her right now. Surprisingly to me, she said yes.
Is healing for today? Does God really want to use his people to minister healing to others? Can anyone be healed? Do I have to go to church to be prayed for so I can be healed?
These are all real questions asked by hurting people on a regular basis. I have a story I would like to share. You be the judge.
I was in the car with my teenage daughter getting ready to go to the store. I pulled partially out of the driveway and then noticed my neighbor across the street. She was in her driveway taking the groceries out of her car. I stopped the car and went across the street to speak to her for a moment. I did not have any idea what God was getting ready to do through me. I just wanted to ask her a question.
We talked for a moment or two and then as I turned to leave she told me she wanted me to remember her in prayer. (Now to my knowledge, she does not have a personal relationship with God.) However, she was hurting and wanted help. She shared with me that the doctor had diagnosed her with macular degeneration of the eyes. I thought to myself that this was one of those ugly diseases for which there was little or no cure.
My heart was filled with compassion for her. Without even thinking, I asked her if I could pray for her right now. Surprisingly to me, she said yes. I grabbed her hands while we were standing in the driveway and began to pray. I felt the power of God as I prayed and I knew God was doing something great! She stood there with tears in her eyes and thanked me for praying. We hugged and I left feeling really excited. My daughter watched the whole thing and wanted to know what had happened. I told her and asked her to also help me pray for this precious neighbor.
A few days later my daughter came into the house and said she had been talking to our neighbor. The neighbor told my daughter she would have to learn to see through what looked like a black spot in the middle of her eye forever. Her eye had healed some but this was the best it would get. My daughter told her that the doctor's report is not necessarily true. She told her the spot in her eye can be healed and that God could do it. The neighbor didn't seem to believe what she was hearing. She only knew she had an eye disease that was making seeing a challenge.
It wasn't long, only a few short weeks, and my neighbor was calling out to me while standing in her yard. She said to tell the prayer group who had been praying for her that it worked. I was ecstatic! The only prayer group was my daughter and myself. God had used a short prayer in a driveway to change someone's life forever. She was healed!
The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, for he has appointed me to preach Good News to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim that captives will be released, that the blind will see, that the downtrodden will be freed from their oppressors, and that the time of the Lord's favor has come (Luke 4:18, 19 New Living Translation).
I told her in the prayer for her that God would get all the glory. This is why I am writing this article. It is all HIS. Praise the Lord! I am so thankful I took the time to pray. I am glad my daughter has learned that the report we listen to is not the doctor's report but the report of the Lord.
If God speaks to you in your "Everyday" living, go for it. He is the "God In The Everyday." He wants to use whoever is willing to step out. The results will amaze you.
cbn
Saturday, April 05, 2003
Trash Disposal
Read: James 4:11-17
Do not speak evil of one another. —James 4:11
While riding in a car, I passed a sign that warned: $100 FINE FOR THROWING LITTER ON HIGHWAY. Soon I saw another sign that stated: LITTER BARREL—1 MILE. A short time later, I passed a garbage truck on its way to the disposal plant.
There are three things you can do with garbage: You can collect it, scatter it, or dispose of it. Some people are garbage collectors; they are always listening for some choice bit of gossip. If they were only collectors, it would not be so serious. But these collectors are often litterbugs, and insist on scattering it all along life's highway. Thank God, there are also those who know how to dispose of it. They put the refuse where it belongs—in the "litter barrel" of forgetfulness.
James 4:11 tells us, "Do not speak evil of one another." If you can't say something helpful, don't say anything. If you hear a damaging rumor, immediately put it in the "litter bag." Then breathe a prayer for the person being talked about, as well as for the one who told you. Don't spread gossip, but dispose of it by silence. Gossip soon dies if it is not repeated.
Today you will find plenty of garbage. You can collect it, scatter it, or dispose of it. Ask God to help you do what pleases Him and is helpful to others. —M. R. De Haan, M.D.
Button up your lip securely
'Gainst the words that bring a tear,
But be swift with words of comfort,
Words of praise, and words of cheer. —Loucks
Do your part to silence gossip—don't repeat it.
daily bread
Read: James 4:11-17
Do not speak evil of one another. —James 4:11
While riding in a car, I passed a sign that warned: $100 FINE FOR THROWING LITTER ON HIGHWAY. Soon I saw another sign that stated: LITTER BARREL—1 MILE. A short time later, I passed a garbage truck on its way to the disposal plant.
There are three things you can do with garbage: You can collect it, scatter it, or dispose of it. Some people are garbage collectors; they are always listening for some choice bit of gossip. If they were only collectors, it would not be so serious. But these collectors are often litterbugs, and insist on scattering it all along life's highway. Thank God, there are also those who know how to dispose of it. They put the refuse where it belongs—in the "litter barrel" of forgetfulness.
James 4:11 tells us, "Do not speak evil of one another." If you can't say something helpful, don't say anything. If you hear a damaging rumor, immediately put it in the "litter bag." Then breathe a prayer for the person being talked about, as well as for the one who told you. Don't spread gossip, but dispose of it by silence. Gossip soon dies if it is not repeated.
Today you will find plenty of garbage. You can collect it, scatter it, or dispose of it. Ask God to help you do what pleases Him and is helpful to others. —M. R. De Haan, M.D.
Button up your lip securely
'Gainst the words that bring a tear,
But be swift with words of comfort,
Words of praise, and words of cheer. —Loucks
Do your part to silence gossip—don't repeat it.
daily bread
Friday, April 04, 2003
The Lifter of My Head
By Pat Young
Thou O lord, art a shield about me, you're my glory and the lifter of my head … hallelujah … you're my glory and the lifter of my head.
Have you ever noticed while attending to your daily business that you are walking with your head hanging down? I have caught myself several times hanging my head as I walk, and it is not a good feeling. During those times I am in deep thought, discouraged, or full of worry. You actually feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders. Thank God, I am quickly reminded of His word:
But you are a shield around me, O Lord; you bestow glory on me and lift up my head (Psalm 3:3).
Another reason that it is not wise to walk with your head down is the fact that you may walk into someone or something! There is one more point I would like to mention. It is the importance of holding your head up when someone is talking to you. I tell my daughter quite often, "honey child, look up, and give me eye to eye contact when we are talking. Look at my nose if it helps you." I am trying to instill confidence in her now while she is young. I stress to her the importance of knowing who she is in Christ and as an individual. Another scripture that encourages me as a child of God is:
I lift up my eyes to the hills. Where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth (Psalm 121:1,2).
When problems arise and the cares of this world are attacking us, remember that God is in control. We can stand tall, throw our shoulders back, and hold our heads up in confidence knowing that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. Very often, a song rings in my heart. It is a part of Psalm 3:3.
Thou O lord, art a shield about me, you're my glory and the lifter of my head … hallelujah … you're my glory and the lifter of my head.
It ministers to me at the time I need it most. That is how God works. He meets us where we are. He loves us so much, that He gives us a song or a scripture to encourage us along life's way. He truly is the glory and the lifter of our heads!
cbn
By Pat Young
Thou O lord, art a shield about me, you're my glory and the lifter of my head … hallelujah … you're my glory and the lifter of my head.
Have you ever noticed while attending to your daily business that you are walking with your head hanging down? I have caught myself several times hanging my head as I walk, and it is not a good feeling. During those times I am in deep thought, discouraged, or full of worry. You actually feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders. Thank God, I am quickly reminded of His word:
But you are a shield around me, O Lord; you bestow glory on me and lift up my head (Psalm 3:3).
Another reason that it is not wise to walk with your head down is the fact that you may walk into someone or something! There is one more point I would like to mention. It is the importance of holding your head up when someone is talking to you. I tell my daughter quite often, "honey child, look up, and give me eye to eye contact when we are talking. Look at my nose if it helps you." I am trying to instill confidence in her now while she is young. I stress to her the importance of knowing who she is in Christ and as an individual. Another scripture that encourages me as a child of God is:
I lift up my eyes to the hills. Where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth (Psalm 121:1,2).
When problems arise and the cares of this world are attacking us, remember that God is in control. We can stand tall, throw our shoulders back, and hold our heads up in confidence knowing that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. Very often, a song rings in my heart. It is a part of Psalm 3:3.
Thou O lord, art a shield about me, you're my glory and the lifter of my head … hallelujah … you're my glory and the lifter of my head.
It ministers to me at the time I need it most. That is how God works. He meets us where we are. He loves us so much, that He gives us a song or a scripture to encourage us along life's way. He truly is the glory and the lifter of our heads!
cbn
Thursday, April 03, 2003
Today's scripture is Proverbs 4:5-6
"Get wisdom, get understanding: forget it not; neither decline from the words of my mouth. Forsake her not, and she shall preserve thee: love her, and she shall keep thee."
Whether your goal is to be an excellent evangelist or a first-rate engineer in the service of the Lord, it is the wisdom that comes from the Word of God that will get you there.
Jesus said it this way: "Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you" (Matthew 6:33).
So commit yourself right now to do whatever it takes to totally saturate yourself with the Word of God. Use every available moment to read, study, listen to, and meditate on it.
bibleshack
"Get wisdom, get understanding: forget it not; neither decline from the words of my mouth. Forsake her not, and she shall preserve thee: love her, and she shall keep thee."
Whether your goal is to be an excellent evangelist or a first-rate engineer in the service of the Lord, it is the wisdom that comes from the Word of God that will get you there.
Jesus said it this way: "Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you" (Matthew 6:33).
So commit yourself right now to do whatever it takes to totally saturate yourself with the Word of God. Use every available moment to read, study, listen to, and meditate on it.
bibleshack
Wednesday, April 02, 2003
Break The Routine
Read: Mark 1:32-39
When He had sent the multitudes away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray. —Matthew 14:23
When was the last time you read the Bible while sitting under an oak tree? Have you ever prayed while the cool water of a creek ran across your feet? Wouldn't it be enjoyable to meditate on God's Word while watching the sun come up over the horizon?
It's not possible, of course, for all of us to do all those things—but it is possible for each of us to break the normal routine of our time alone with God. Sometimes, the habits of our devotional life can get in the way of our growing closer to God. In fact, at times they can grow stale and boring.
But there is nothing boring about a God who created the earth in all its splendor and variety. There is no lack of excitement in worshiping a Savior who was willing to die a horrible death for us and pay the penalty for our sins. There is nothing common about being indwelt by the Holy Spirit, who empowers us to accomplish God's will.
So how do we avoid dry devotional times? By breaking the routine of the usual and adding some variety to our personal time alone with God.
In His worship, Jesus found solitary havens away from the busyness of people and ministry (Mark 1:35). We need to do the same. We need to break the routine. —Dave Branon
THINKING IT THROUGH
Are you spiritually dry? Try changing the routine of your quiet time with the Lord—a different time, place, method, book of the Bible, or topic.
Time spent with the Lord is time well spent.
daily bread
Read: Mark 1:32-39
When He had sent the multitudes away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray. —Matthew 14:23
When was the last time you read the Bible while sitting under an oak tree? Have you ever prayed while the cool water of a creek ran across your feet? Wouldn't it be enjoyable to meditate on God's Word while watching the sun come up over the horizon?
It's not possible, of course, for all of us to do all those things—but it is possible for each of us to break the normal routine of our time alone with God. Sometimes, the habits of our devotional life can get in the way of our growing closer to God. In fact, at times they can grow stale and boring.
But there is nothing boring about a God who created the earth in all its splendor and variety. There is no lack of excitement in worshiping a Savior who was willing to die a horrible death for us and pay the penalty for our sins. There is nothing common about being indwelt by the Holy Spirit, who empowers us to accomplish God's will.
So how do we avoid dry devotional times? By breaking the routine of the usual and adding some variety to our personal time alone with God.
In His worship, Jesus found solitary havens away from the busyness of people and ministry (Mark 1:35). We need to do the same. We need to break the routine. —Dave Branon
THINKING IT THROUGH
Are you spiritually dry? Try changing the routine of your quiet time with the Lord—a different time, place, method, book of the Bible, or topic.
Time spent with the Lord is time well spent.
daily bread
Tuesday, April 01, 2003
Breaking Free
By Charlene Israel
Don't be limited by chains of a wrong mindset. Get free with God's Word!
Do you ever feel like you are limited? Have you ever felt that God can use others but not you? Do you think of ways to be more effective for the Lord, but you never act on them?
In the words of my pastor during a recent sermon, "A lot of God's people have chains limiting them." He related the story of an elephant that had been chained since childhood. When the elephant grew into an adult, the still-chained animal had the mindset "This is as far as I can go."
As I listened to this story, I began to see that as a Christian, I had been limited in many areas of my life. I was not going far in my walk with God.
The definition of the word limit is "the point, edge, or line beyond which something cannot or may not proceed." It is as if the enemy of my soul has drawn a line in the sand of my life and dares me to cross it. He lies to me, saying, "You are a nobody going nowhere." He does not want me to know the truth: that I can be free and that God has a destiny for me to fulfill. Jesus said, "And ye shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free"(John 8:32, KJV).
For most of my life I struggled with chains of rejection, fear and intimidation. Only recently did I begin to recognize that every link in each chain was a lie limiting me, binding me, and grounding my potential. As I looked in the Scriptures, I began to see that my Heavenly Father loved me and had a great plan for my life.
The adult elephant remained bound because it did not know that it had the ability to break free. It was trained as a baby to be bound, and it carried that mindset into adulthood. As the redeemed of the Lord, we have to be transformed by the renewing of our minds to the truth of God's Word.
It says in Hosea 4:6, "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge" (NAS). If we do not know that we can be free; then we never will be.
To break free of things that have held us back, we must use the power of God's Word to destroy the chains. God's Word is anointed to demolish chains of limitation that pull on us and hold us in bondage. Just having head knowledge of God's Word will not free us. We must have heart knowledge of it. We have to meditate upon God's Word, pray God's Word, and hide it in our hearts. We must use it for the weapon that it is. The Holy Bible says that we are to put on the whole armor of God, and part of the armor is the sword of the Spirit, the Word of God (see Ephesians 6:10-18). God wants us to use His Word to cut away the chains of limitation.
At this stage in my life, I am putting God's Word into practice. I am now walking in the light and I am agreeing with God that everything He says about me is true. I am saying, "Lord be it unto me according to Your Word and my declaration."
As a child of God you do not have to be limited. You can be all that God wants you to be and do all that He has called you to do. When thoughts of fear and intimidation try to hold you back, dare to agree with God. Find and meditate on Scriptures that will help you to see yourself as God sees you.
As you begin the process of hiding God's Word in your heart and speaking it out of your mouth, remember: "But the people that do know their God shall be strong, and do exploits" (Daniel 11:32, KJV).
Do not allow the enemy to hold you back from the purposes and plans God has for you. God can and wants to use you. Begin to dream big, for we serve a big God, and He has more in store for you than you could ever imagine. Tell the devil, "God is with me, God is for me, and I am breaking free!"
cbn
By Charlene Israel
Don't be limited by chains of a wrong mindset. Get free with God's Word!
Do you ever feel like you are limited? Have you ever felt that God can use others but not you? Do you think of ways to be more effective for the Lord, but you never act on them?
In the words of my pastor during a recent sermon, "A lot of God's people have chains limiting them." He related the story of an elephant that had been chained since childhood. When the elephant grew into an adult, the still-chained animal had the mindset "This is as far as I can go."
As I listened to this story, I began to see that as a Christian, I had been limited in many areas of my life. I was not going far in my walk with God.
The definition of the word limit is "the point, edge, or line beyond which something cannot or may not proceed." It is as if the enemy of my soul has drawn a line in the sand of my life and dares me to cross it. He lies to me, saying, "You are a nobody going nowhere." He does not want me to know the truth: that I can be free and that God has a destiny for me to fulfill. Jesus said, "And ye shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free"(John 8:32, KJV).
For most of my life I struggled with chains of rejection, fear and intimidation. Only recently did I begin to recognize that every link in each chain was a lie limiting me, binding me, and grounding my potential. As I looked in the Scriptures, I began to see that my Heavenly Father loved me and had a great plan for my life.
The adult elephant remained bound because it did not know that it had the ability to break free. It was trained as a baby to be bound, and it carried that mindset into adulthood. As the redeemed of the Lord, we have to be transformed by the renewing of our minds to the truth of God's Word.
It says in Hosea 4:6, "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge" (NAS). If we do not know that we can be free; then we never will be.
To break free of things that have held us back, we must use the power of God's Word to destroy the chains. God's Word is anointed to demolish chains of limitation that pull on us and hold us in bondage. Just having head knowledge of God's Word will not free us. We must have heart knowledge of it. We have to meditate upon God's Word, pray God's Word, and hide it in our hearts. We must use it for the weapon that it is. The Holy Bible says that we are to put on the whole armor of God, and part of the armor is the sword of the Spirit, the Word of God (see Ephesians 6:10-18). God wants us to use His Word to cut away the chains of limitation.
At this stage in my life, I am putting God's Word into practice. I am now walking in the light and I am agreeing with God that everything He says about me is true. I am saying, "Lord be it unto me according to Your Word and my declaration."
As a child of God you do not have to be limited. You can be all that God wants you to be and do all that He has called you to do. When thoughts of fear and intimidation try to hold you back, dare to agree with God. Find and meditate on Scriptures that will help you to see yourself as God sees you.
As you begin the process of hiding God's Word in your heart and speaking it out of your mouth, remember: "But the people that do know their God shall be strong, and do exploits" (Daniel 11:32, KJV).
Do not allow the enemy to hold you back from the purposes and plans God has for you. God can and wants to use you. Begin to dream big, for we serve a big God, and He has more in store for you than you could ever imagine. Tell the devil, "God is with me, God is for me, and I am breaking free!"
cbn