A Case of the Blahs
Missey Butler

Did you know that the word “blah” is actually listed in the dictionary? Webster defines it as “a feeling of dullness, boredom, lethargy, likened to a winter’s day.”

I guess that sums up the way I’ve been feeling lately. I couldn’t quite put my finger on what the problem was. I just knew that I wasn’t my usual good-to-go self.

I have to admit: sometimes the blahs just seem to creep into my life unannounced. I’ll be going along just fine when, all of a sudden, it feels like my engine begins to run on three cylinders instead of the usual eight.

I’ve come to believe that the blahs are simply characteristic of the human condition and not to be heralded as anything more. I even had a good talk to God about them, but before I could apologize for the way that I felt, He simply hushed my lips, nodded, and said, I know.

“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weakness, but we have one who has been tempted in everyway, just as we are-yet was without sin” (Hebrews 4:15).

I know the Lord has brought me a long way from where I used to be. In the past, I would have analyzed myself right smack into the diagnosis of having a serious backslidden condition, and that if I was ever going to snap out of it, I had better crank up my spirituality a few more notches by praying more, fasting more, or buying that 16 cassette tape series on “How to be a better Christian.”

Talk about your super-charged, hyper-driven, got to get it done Christian! In reality, all that had happened was I had fallen back into a works mentality, and that little elusive five-letter word known as Grace had once again become the name of my favorite Aunt, instead of the needed virtue that would carry me beyond my current dilemma and into the wonderful rest God was calling me to. What started out as a simple case of the blahs turned into a major emotional hurdle of my own making.

Just in time, God rescued me from the gauntlet of condemnation and guilt. He delivered me by quieting down my restless spirit and telling me, Daughter, I am the same yesterday, today, and forever. Come now and sit at My feet. Let Me bring peace to your heart once again by reminding you that My yolk is easy and My burden is light. Come and lay your head on My shoulder and let Me whisper that all is fine.

“For he himself is our peace, who has made the two one, and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, by abolishing in his flesh the law with its commandments and regulation” (Ephesians 2:14).

cbn

the government’s job

1 I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, 2 for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. 3 This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, 4 who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

To hear some Christians talk, you'd think that it's the government's responsibility to advance righteousness and to be the steward, upholder, promoter, and protector of biblical truth and values. Actually, Christians in the US—where I live—have experienced an unusual season of history. We've had a government that, although led for the most part by people who are not authentically Christian, was built on the fundamental tenets of a biblical heritage. But that has now changed. In fact, it's helpful to remember that most Christians through the ages have lived under hostile, oppressive, pagan systems. And quite frankly, Christians have often done their best in those environments.

God never assigned government the task of upholding scriptural truth. Scripture assigns government the responsibilities of safety, stability, peace, and justice (Romans 13:1-5; 1 Timothy 2:2). We give the wrong impression of the biblical mandate for government when we feel betrayed because it is no longer an advocate for truth and righteousness. The advancement and proclamation of godly values is assigned to our lives, our homes, and our churches. We don't have the luxury of expecting that government will help us in the process.

Early Christians, during times of ruthless political regimes, took the responsibility to uphold their faith under great cultural pressure. They, not their governments, were the light of the world.

It was to these Christians that Paul delineated our responsibilities toward government. We are to honor those in authority over us, pray for them, and pay our taxes. Thankfully, Scripture doesn't say that we have to vote for them; but since they are ultimately placed in authority by God, we are commanded to give them due respect (Romans 13:1-7). This biblical perspective recognizes God's sovereign oversight, realigns our attitudes, and releases us to get on with the business of being the torchbearers he intends us to be. —Joe Stowell www.rbc.org

seeking: Father, how has reflecting on your sovereignty challenged my thinking today? How have you encouraged me with your presence?

responding: Who is in authority over me? How often do I pray for him or her? What is keeping me from praying more?

Father, help me to trust you with the authorities you place over me. I want to serve you with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength.

following: God rules, and uses the people he chooses to rule others.

our journey

What Thanksgiving Can Do
John Fischer

The worst moment for an atheist comes when he is really thankful and has no one to thank.
- Unknown

Thanksgiving is the theme song of the Christian. For a Christian not to be thankful is like a dog not to wag his tail at his owner's approach.

Thankful Christians walk around grateful for every breath, every sunset, every new morning, every color in the color spectrum, and every star in the sky. Like an alcoholic who is clean and sober, noticing beauty and taste for the first time, we are grateful just to be alive because we have been dead for so long.

It's hard to think of one vice that the virtue of thankfulness cannot render useless. One does not need to steal when one is thankful. A man does not covet his neighbor's wife when he is thankful for his own. No one craves more when he is grateful for what he has.

In the same way, a thankful heart cancels out pride and arrogance. No need to judge other people when you are thankful for who you are. No need to measure yourself by and compare yourself to others when you are thankful for what God has done in your life. No need to keep anyone out of the kingdom of God when you're overwhelmed that you got in. (God can let in anyone He wants. I am simply glad to be counted among the saved.)

You don't care if you get the important seat at the table when you are overcome with gratitude at simply being invited to the dinner. You don't put heavy weights on other people's shoulders when you are thankful that God has lightened your own load. You are not obsessed with what other people think of you when you are overwhelmed with the fact that God is thinking about you all the time. You don't demand respect when you are thankful for your place. You don't have to hide your own sin when you are already thankful for God's forgiveness. You don't have to protect your image when you are already number one with God. You don't have to condemn other people's blindness when it's only the grace of God that has allowed you to see. You don't have to try for the highest place when you are already grateful for whatever place you were given. You don't have to make a show of spirituality when you are thankful for having received the Spirit. You don't have to clothe yourself in holy robes when you have been already clothed in righteousness. You don't have to be full of yourself when you are thankful that God has filled you up with Himself.

Not only do we have a lot to be thankful for, our thankfulness can accomplish much.

PDL

living out of overflow

5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. 6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever. Psalm 23:5-6

I wish that once we learned a spiritual lesson, we would never have to learn it again. With that in mind, recently I had to rediscover the truth of that powerful little phrase in Psalm 23, “My cup overflows” (v.5).

Where does that overflow come from and why isn't my cup full?

Too often we look at life from our capacity. We've got ten things to do today, three people to see, and no time for this or that. We measure it out by our capacity.

But God says, “I don't want you to live for me out of your capacity. Serve me out of your overflow. Focus on me again and you won't have to worry about how to measure out what you give. I'll keep pouring into your life and you can live off the overflow.”

You say, I have no idea how to experience that. What's my problem?

It's hard to accept, but often our problem boils down to sin. We call it more polite names, but anything that causes our cup to stop overflowing is sin. Call it “fatigue” and stop serving the Lord—but it's still sin. Call it “pressures at work” which makes you lose your peace—but it's really sin.

Not many of us think of our lack of abundance as sin, but that's why our cups do not quickly overflow again. Where sin is admitted and confessed, the blood of Jesus cleanses from all unrighteousness. Where his blood cleanses, his Spirit always witnesses in us and the cup runs over again. His blood, however, doesn't cleanse excuses.

When you find yourself holding back for fear of an empty tank, do these two things:

• Ask the Lord to reveal to you what is blocking the abundance in your life and confess it as sin.

• Increase your time in God's Word and in prayer.

Do this regularly and you won't ever have to worry again about having enough. —James MacDonald walkintheword.com

seeking: Father, what have you revealed about my own lack of overflow? What are you drawing out of me?

responding: How often this week have I felt weary in doing the right thing? What's going on? • How can I resist living the Christian life in my own strength?

Thank you, God, for your abundant provision. Let me live from the overflow and claim the opportunities you give me to live for you, to love you, and to serve you. How rich I am!

following: Live out of your overflow in Jesus.

our journey

Handel-ing the Messiah
Dan Betzer

My friend Dr. Don Meyer, the president of Valley Forge Christian College, has written a delightful little book called "Think About It." It is a compilation of newspaper columns Don has written for area publications.

One selection concerns George Frideric Handel, the great composer. In the early 1700s, Handel's popularity had begun to wane and creditors were knocking. His health was marred by depression, insomnia, and rheumatism. In his late 50s, he faced a bleak future.

Then, in 1741, Handel received a letter from a wealthy landowner, Charles Jennens, who had written some lyrics for him in the past. In this letter, Jennens sent a compilation of scriptures which focused on the Christ of God. Handel felt deeply moved in his spirit and began to write.

Within seven days he had completed part one of "Messiah," which concerned Jesus' birth. He wrote the redemption part in another nine days and then, in less than one week, Handel completed the resurrection and future reign of Christ portion including the "Hallelujah Chorus."

On April 13, 1742, "Messiah" made its debut in Dublin to a rousing reception. Handel lived another 17 years and led many more performances of his masterpiece.

Why do we stand today when this great work is presented? When King George II of England first heard "Messiah," he stood. Since no one remains seated when a king stands, the audience also stood. The majestic "Hallelujah Chorus" was performed in our church this week and we all stood and applauded! And were blessed.

Just think -- Handel might never have written "Messiah" had Jennens not sent him that letter.

cbn

Too Good
by John Fischer

A year ago almost to the day, in a devotional titled "Sad Little Shovels," I quoted a friend of mine who was battling cancer with an unforgettable explanation of what he was about to go through during one of his treatments. “One doctor referred to [it] as getting hit by the train, then the trucks on the train pull out and hit you, and then their cargo of charging horses run over you too. Only then do the guys with the sad little shovels come and get you and sweep you away.”

Well, Dwight had an up and down year, and on November 14, 2005 he lost his battle with cancer, but won his battle with Satan over any claim on his eternal soul. He is free at last.

This is always so hard, but especially hard when a person has made himself as vulnerable as Dwight has during this process. His emails are now collected in a cancer journal (www.dwightozard.com) that some of you may want to look into but not without a warning: “Danger, contents are painfully real, as in 'Cancer books suck.'”

But you will also find things like: “I've discovered that nurses are among the most underpaid and underappreciated people in the world. I've discovered that my best friends are exactly that. I've discovered that my family--all of it, genetic and 'in-law'--are the best. I've discovered my own capacity for ingratitude. I've discovered my wife's unending patience and that she deserves more than I can give her. And I've discovered that a lot of the stuff I've discovered, other people don't think about nearly as much as they should.”

As you can see, Dwight was an excellent writer so his work is hard to dismiss. As happens for Christians who walk this road, his faith and hope held up to the end, but not by glossing over the reality of his situation or his real feelings. This is a kind of faith we rarely see, but need to know exists. If it weren't for people like Dwight, we might get the impression that faith paints everything a rosy color and wonder if there is something wrong when our own picture stays bleak and gray. Truth is, faith might not change the picture, but it will come alongside and hold you up and, most importantly, carry you to the end, because the end for those who believe is only the beginning.

The following is from an entry in Dwight's journal only a few weeks ago:

Either way, we want to just make the most of this thing, to use a metaphor that I'm certain is inappropriate, given my disease, to suck the marrow out the bones of life, to live deeply and without reservation, hesitation or fear. To breathe deep the air of spring and the breath of God, to savor the depths of flavors and the best of God's good earth and to "taste and see" the goodness of God, to hold the things that matter close to the heart, to treasure the hard parts of loving and frolic like a 4-year old in a mud puddle in the good, easy parts.

Don't waste this thing.

It's too good.

PDL

Point; and Have Patience
John Fischer

One of our regular readers is a seventysomething granddad that occasionally responds to me via email. This last week my “soccer devotionals” recalled to him his own experiences watching his kids and grandkids performing in various athletic programs, one of them being T-ball, that first experience children have with baseball, hitting the ball off a “T” and hopefully running to the right base while the other team tries to gather up the ball and get it to first base, or second, or third, or what-the-heck throw home just in case we missed the runner everywhere else.

He remarked on how much fun it was to watch the excitement of the kids, but the part he felt was most important to see was the patience shown those little ones by their coaches. “We all need to be able to show that kind of patience with individuals seeking their way to Christ” he wrote. “Helping to point the direction of the goal can be very helpful to the young Christian.”

This, in fact, is an excellent way to express our mission in the world as those who point the way to Christ. When you consider we are working in tandem with the Holy Spirit, you realize we don't have to do everything, teach everything, correct everything, solve everything, or save everybody. Most of the time, we simply point the way.

Come to think of it, our kindergarten soccer players never really learned how to pass the ball to a teammate. They never learned you could hit the ball with your head. They don't know a thing about “offsides,” offensive or defensive positions, or what a goalie is. We just pointed them to the goal and told them to kick the ball in that direction. That was it. They will learn the rest in time, and they will learn at their own pace. Some will get it faster than others. Some won't get it at all.

And what does this require of us? Granddad said, “Patience.” He's right. We can't force anybody to believe. Can't push them closer to the goal. As parents, we're not even allowed on the field. It's the kids' thing. They have to get it themselves. Game after game. Practice after practice. And suddenly, the light goes on. They get it, and they start initiating their own search. They become impassioned about God and the truth, and we didn't create it, we just pointed them in the right direction. (And probably prayed a whole lot.)

We point; and have patience. Point; and have patience. That's pretty much it.

PDL

what are you waiting for?

1 Truly, truly, I say to you, he who does not enter the sheepfold by the door but climbs in by another way, that man is a thief and a robber. 2 But he who enters by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. 3 To him the gatekeeper opens. The sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. 4 When he has brought out all his own, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice. 5 A stranger they will not follow, but they will flee from him, for they do not know the voice of strangers. John 10:1-5

"What are you waiting for, Miss?” The question startled me and snapped me out of my daydreams. Then, as I looked around and realized I was the only one in the Panera Bread, the question seemed a bit ridiculous. Nonetheless I smiled and replied, “a Frontega Chicken.” I watched the manager dutifully check my order. Then my mind went back to his question. What am I waiting for? Thoughts began to rise from the depths of my soul, awakening me to ponder life's journey and how Jesus guides us.

In John 10 we read about Jesus' parable of the Good Shepherd. The gatekeeper calls the sheep by name and he opens the gate for them. The sheep listen to him, for they know his voice. They don't follow the one who seeks to kill, steal, and destroy. In fact, they run away from him because they don't recognize his voice. Jesus is the Good Shepherd and the Gatekeeper. He opens the gate to life and leads the way. We come to know his voice and follow him.

Listening and learning to follow involves challenge, mystery, and trust. Challenge: the stranger is out to steal, kill, and destroy. Mystery: we don't know where the path will lead tomorrow. Trust: we are confident that Jesus is going before us and knows what is best for us.

He calls us and we follow. It's so simple and yet so profound. May we follow him with a passion that reveals our confidence in him and our desire to submit to his will.

What should we be waiting for? The voice of our Master. “When he has brought out all his own, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice” (John 10:4). Where he leads us, by his loving voice, we must follow. —Sonya Williams

seeking: Jesus, what have I heard your voice telling me today? How will I respond?

responding: Have I lost the excitement of my first love in my journey with Jesus? • What do I hear him saying to me today?

Jesus, I thank you for your calming, leading, loving voice. Help me to stop listening to the world and its words that only lead me astray. I want to follow you alone.

following: Jesus leads the way to life.

our journey

why i believe the bible

8 My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. 9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. 10 “For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven and do not return there but water the earth, making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater, 11 so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it.” Isaiah 55:8-11

So what do you tell people when they ask, “You don't really believe all that stuff in the Bible, do you?” Of all the arguments you can use to defend your faith, here's one that no one can deny: “I believe the Bible because it accomplishes God's purpose in my life.”

As God says in Isaiah 55:11, “[My Word] shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it.”

Have you ever felt totally convicted as you listened to God's Word being taught? Has the Spirit of God ever used his Word like a beam of light, revealing your specific thoughts and motives? I could tell you about times God's Word has worked me over. Or, has the Bible ever delivered a peace that transcends all understanding? Has it given you strength?

I wish you could see what I see from the front of my church every week as I teach God's Word. I look across the faces of people gripped by God's eternal truth. Tears stream down their cheeks. Some can hardly look up because they're under the convicting power of the Holy Spirit. God's Word is always effective in doing the job that he intends it to do.

I am convinced beyond any doubt that the Bible is inspired by God, without error in its teachings, trustworthy in its authority, immeasurable in influence, personal in application, life-changing in power, and diverse in its unity. This reality compels me to celebrate it and obey it. Why? Because I've experienced it.

Starting today, make a greater personal investment in God's Word. You've got the time—just set your priorities. Make it the passion of your life to discover what it means to delight in the law of the Lord (Psalm 119:77).

And the next time someone asks you, “Do you believe the Bible?” proclaim your confidence in God and the book he has written by answering, “I'm glad you asked . . .” —James MacDonald walkintheword.com

seeking: Father, what Scripture has lifted my heart today? How will I praise you for your wonderful Word?

responding: Am I allowing Scripture to penetrate my life and change me? • Does the time and effort I put into Bible reading and study reflect my faith in it as the Word of God?

Lord, forgive me for allowing other things to quench my thirst, when your Word is a spring of living water. Teach me what it means to delight in your law.

following: God's Word is always effective in accomplishing God's purposes.

our journey

integrity of the gospel

27 Let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel, 28 and not frightened in anything by your opponents. This is a clear sign to them of their destruction, but of your salvation, and that from God. 29 For it has been granted to you that for the sake of Christ you should not only believe in him but also suffer for his sake, 30 engaged in the same conflict that you saw I had and now hear that I still have. Philippians 1:27-30

The other evening my oldest son Bryan and I had an interesting conversation. He was sharing with me his disappointment with some of his Christian friends whose lives don't match up to the gospel they say they believe. In fact, the sin in their lives really discredits the message they preach. It sobered us both because we realize we're also capable of sinful failure and thus violating the integrity of our message.

The gospel is a holy message that should be represented by a holy life. It's the whole package. God didn't entrust the gospel message and the proclamation of this wonderful news to people who are not living right and don't intend to change. A changed life gives full credibility and integrity to the message that's preached, which then will produce change in someone else's life.

In Philippians 1:27-28, Paul underscored that the placesetting of the gospel is our lives. We are not the gospel, but we are to be clean vessels that the gospel is being served on. No one wants to eat food off dirty dishes. We want food served on clean plates.

We need to examine our lives. Are we clean? Are we good dishes for God to use? If he places us on his table of opportunity and people come by, will they want to send the food back because they look at us and say, “This isn't clean. I can't eat off this. I might get sick.” That's what happens when we don't pay attention to keeping our life clean.

The gospel calls for urgency both in dealing with sin in our lives and proclaiming the message. People are looking at us. They need to hear the truth, so we need to share it urgently.

The “good news” is not just a message we share—it's the life we live. Let's make sure our lives tell the truth about what we say. —Crawford W. Loritts livingalegacy.org

seeking: Father, what commitment to represent you can I make right now? How have you revealed my inability to truly present and live out your message?

responding: What areas of my life are not clean? • Do people see the gospel being lived out in my life? Why or why not?

Heavenly Father, I want others to see your gospel in my life. Help me to share the “good news” with love, boldness, and urgency.

following: People need to see the gospel as well as hear it.

our journey

close to the shepherd

1 Since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. 3 More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, 4 and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, 5 and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us. Romans 5:1-5

It's a shocking fact that a good shepherd will break the leg of a wandering sheep. A loving, caring shepherd knows that by taking something away, in time the loss will be replaced by something far better . . . something to keep his lamb strong and protected.

It can seem heartless for God to take away some of the things we so highly value in life. Relationships, health, employment, and other treasured things can be swept away by the Father's loving hand. But when our hearts are broken, we can grow closer in intimacy with our Shepherd as he develops our character (1 Peter 5:3-4). And that's a lesson that must be learned. For it's rough out there. Life can bring a steady stream of temptations. But he wants us on his trail—the safe trail of righteousness. Without the character-building ways of God, we would become weak and defenseless. We wouldn't be able to turn from desires and temptations that could destroy us. That's why it's so important for us to be broken.

God has broken my “leg.” Perhaps he has broken yours. That's why, spiritually speaking, I walk with a limp. Although the experience was painful, I'm glad he did it. For now I'm very mindful of staying close to Jesus. Most of us would not choose to have a leg broken. But what's the alternative? When we refuse to follow the Shepherd, we play right into the hands of the enemy who wants to destroy us. “Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8).

Strong-willed sheep think much of their own plans and little about the enemy. They misread the trail of righteousness, thinking that a life of ease will lead to happiness. But that's the road to ruin. Brokenness brings us back to where we belong—close to God's heart. —Steve Farrar stevefarrar.com

seeking: Father, what have you shown me about suffering and its purposes? What renewed hope have you placed in my heart?

responding: How does God use hardships to shape my character? How does he use them to keep me from being defeated by the devil? • What does God desire of me as I face my brokenness?

Father, I desire to stay close to your heart. Let me be broken, if it will keep me there and far from the devil. I praise you, my Shield and Shepherd.

following: God keeps us close to protect us.

our journey

Lessons in Love
Virginia Smith

Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds ... Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. (Deuteronomy 11:18-19, NIV)

After a long day of Christmas shopping, my adult daughter and I found a table in the food court to rest our aching feet and sip hot cocoa. With sighs of relief, we piled our packages around us and sat back to watch the parade of mall shoppers. Our talk turned to past Christmases.

“Do you remember the year we did Christmas for that poor family?” my daughter asked.

I certainly did! I had become concerned that my 10- and 13-year-old children were too self-centered, so we ‘adopted’ a needy family. Our commitment was to provide everything – toys, clothes, even food for Christmas dinner. The kids helped with shopping and wrapping the gifts, and when they participated enthusiastically I thought my plan was succeeding.

Then came delivery day - Christmas Eve. We drove to a not-so-nice part of town and parked in front of a run-down trailer. I saw my son’s eyes widen as he glimpsed a rust-eaten car with no doors, propped up on cement blocks in the front yard. Rust speckled the tin roof of the trailer as well, and one of the windows had been replaced by cardboard and criss-crossed with duct tape.

The mother of this family had taken the younger kids out, leaving a grandmother and a girl my daughter’s age to receive our gifts. Stepping into their tiny living room, I fought to hide my tears at the sight of the smallest Christmas tree I had ever seen, one even Charlie Brown would have rejected. Childish handmade paper ornaments decorated the drooping branches, hung there as beacons of hope that this season of God’s abiding love would bring something special to even this humble home. We unloaded bag after bag, and soon we had filled up the single room and covered the kitchen counters. The girl and her grandmother were so grateful we were embarrassed by their constant thanks.

Both of my kids were silent in the car as we drove home, and I was mentally congratulating myself on teaching them a valuable lesson in Christian charity. But then my daughter burst out in an angry voice, “Well thank you very much for ruining my Christmas! I can’t believe you took me to that terrible place.” Devastated, I realized my lesson in love had failed.

As I recounted this to my adult daughter, she listened quietly. Then she shook her head. “I don’t remember being upset. But I do remember how happy that girl was to get our gifts, and how good it felt to give them. It’s one of my best Christmas memories.”

As parents, our responsibility is to model God’s love for our children. We can’t always tell what effect our efforts will have, and sometimes the lesson isn’t fully learned until time has done its part in seasoning the message. But when we’re obedient, we can trust God to teach the lessons in His own time.

PRAYER: Generous Father, let my life be dedicated to serving You today, so others will see the lessons You want to teach through me.

cbn

Christmas Reminders
Linda J. Gilden

Christmas has become extremely commercialized. Everywhere we look we see Christmas trees, lights, presents, signs enticing us to buy this or that for the people on our lists. But let's try to keep our thoughts focused on the real meaning of the season.

When we see a wreath, let's remember that God's love is never ending.

When we see the lights, let's remember that Jesus is the light of the world.

When we see candles, let's remember that our lights, however small, shine brightly enough to spread to those around us.

When we see presents, let's remember that God gave us the greatest gift of all in His Son, Jesus Christ.

When we see a Christmas tree, let's remember a tree on top of a hill called Calvary.

When we see snow, let's remember the One who cleanses our sins in a way that makes them pure white.

When we sing carols, let's remember the importance of making a joyful noise unto the Lord.

When we sit down to Christmas dinner, let's remember that Jesus is the bread of life.

When we see all those around us in need, whether physically, financially, emotionally, or spiritually, let's remember that Christmas really shouldn't be limited to one season of the year.

God's gift was for all seasons. And, every time we share that gift, it's Christmas!

Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift! (2 Corinthians 9:15)

cbn

Don't Give Up
John Fischer

Today I am eighty-five years old. I am as strong now as I was when Moses sent me on [this] journey, and I can still travel and fight as well as I could then. So I'm asking you to give me the hill country that the LORD promised me. You will remember that as scouts we found the Anakites living there in great, walled cities. But if the LORD is with me, I will drive them out of the land, just as the LORD said." (Joshua 14:10-12)

- Caleb to Joshua as he divided the Promised Land among the tribes.

Okay, I've been running again now for over 2 months and I've been waiting for that thing to kick in that all joggers know about - that extra wind that hits you about halfway into your run and suddenly you feel like you could run forever. Well, it finally happened, so I stretched my run another half mile.

On the way back, I found myself thinking about getting older and whether there comes a time when this doesn't happen anymore. Then I started to wonder if there would ever come a time when I would have to give this up.

Then suddenly I thought of my dad and an encouraging phone conversation I had had earlier that week. It was the best conversation I have had with him in a long time.

1) He didn't talk about any physical ailments. I know he could have, but he didn't, and that was significant.

2) He didn't complain about anything. He has been concerned over the phasing out of the choir in his church for a praise band, but he only talked about how he had just gotten back from a choir retreat and what a great time he had there.

3) He then cracked three new jokes he picked up at the retreat.

4) He invited me to come sing a couple numbers at his assisted living apartment house in a few weeks when his choir from church does a Christmas program there. Last year he directed the choir for this same event. This year he is bowing out, but the current director insisted that he direct one number. (Now there's a fine man who understands how my dad comes alive when he directs a choir - something he loves and did for years.)

5) And finally, he told me he is going to start leading a Bible study in his complex. “Just once a month to start with,” he said.

“Dad,” I said. “You've got to meet more often than that.”

“That's all I could get on the calendar here.”

“They'll want more,” I assured him. “We'll pump it at the Christmas concert. What else do these people have to do?”

“Oh, they have a very full social calendar going.”

“Yeah, but they haven't been to your Bible study yet. You watch, they'll beg for more.”

How about that? And I was worried about giving up.

My dad is 93.

PDL

God In The Everyday
Martha Noebel

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

Apples, Acorns, and Oaks… Oh My!
Missey Butler

Those of us who are geographically fortunate enough to experience the change of seasons have to admit that autumn is certainly a very welcomed and refreshing time of the year. Most of us are just crossing over the finish line of the dog days of summer and are more than ready to fold up our beach chairs and drain the pool as the leaves and pine needles begin their annual descent.

The air conditioning units are shut off and the windows are gladly opened in order to allow the cool, evening breezes to move over us as we snuggle under a soft blanket while the harvest moon watches from a distance. Leaves quietly rustle as the wide-eyed owl softly “hoots” in perfect rhythm off in a wooded distance.

The backdrop of our everyday lives begins to reveal broad paint-brush strokes of oranges, golds, yellows, and browns. The neighborhood produce stand proudly displays its “Apples for Sale” sign, as the Granny’s, Red Delicious, Macintosh, and Rone’s compete to be picked. And, of course, next to them, no apple would be complete without the recipes of how to candy-coat or caramelize those beauties!

With cable-knit sweaters tied around our shoulders we ride our bikes down past the pumpkin, peanut, and cider stands as they advertise for the local State Fair. Colorful quilts and pots of crimson-colored Chrysanthemums are tastefully set out for display beside the tall cornstalks and bundles of hay neatly positioned around rows and rows of homemade jams, honey, and dried Indian corn.

Nature and all of its surroundings gracefully unfold into a season of bountiful harvest. God’s agricultural laws of sowing and reaping show off their finest exhibition of fruits, vegetables, and grains that one could possibly fill in a basket. There is a longstanding formula of wonderful provision that first begins with the planting of a single seed.

This natural law of reciprocity is not just exclusive to plants and trees. There are many types of seeds that can be sown. There are the seeds of a kind word or a friendly smile, a helping hand or a pat on the back, a home-cooked meal or a heartfelt “I’m sorry.” On and on the list can go. All of these “giving of yourself” type seeds, after they are sown in the ground, can begin to produce quite a large harvest, as well. Let’s begin to gather up the fruit of the Spirit, for there are many souls in need of this particular bounty of harvest!

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law (Galatians 5:22).

cbn

Mary - Obedient Servant
Candy Arrington

"I am the Lord's servant," Mary answered. "May it be to me as you have said." Luke 1:38

Gabriel's visit to Mary was unexpected and terrifying. But despite her fear and confusion, Mary didn't run from the situation. Instead, she listened with enough composure to understand the announcement. Then she asked a simple question, "How can this be?"

Mary didn't question God's call on her life. She only asked for clarification. She wanted to understand the mechanics of how something that seemed in opposition to natural law could be accomplished. Once the angel answered that question, she yielded herself totally to God's plan.

I can imagine that if an angel appeared to a teenage girl today with this shocking news - you're going to have a baby, although you are a virgin and unwed - there would be numerous questions or an exclamation of "No way!" I'm sure Mary realized the potential problems inherent in God's mission for her life yet she didn't voice any of those. Instead she calmly trusted that if this was God's plan for her it must be the best plan.

This tells us something of Mary's relationship with God. Her faith was obviously deep enough for her to offer herself as a willing servant. Perhaps it was Mary's servant-heartedness that caused God to select her as the one "highly favored among women." It seems appropriate that God chose this obedient teenage girl to be the mother of a child who would later offer himself in the greatest act of servanthood ever.

The Bible leaves us in suspense about the specific reaction of Mary's parents to her news. Perhaps they were skeptical of the authenticity of her story or even angry and disappointed with her. Clearly, part of the way they handled the situation was to send her to stay with Elizabeth, out of public view and away from gossiping tongues.

Joseph was embarrassed by Mary's pregnancy and planned to distance himself from her by breaking their engagement. When the angel appeared to him, verifying Mary's story, Joseph also acted in obedience to God's plan for their lives. I'm sure that Mary, Joseph, and their families experienced all the conflicting emotions that we do today when faced with a situation that seems out of our control and life-altering. Sometimes God asks us to do things that bring skepticism and criticism from those around us. Often, obedience to God's will involves some degree of discomfort.

Although Mary found favor with God, her life was not without suffering. Upon seeing the infant Jesus in the temple, Simeon predicted that a sword would pierce Mary's soul. Mary was alive during Jesus' ministry, his arrest, trial, and present when he was crucified. She saw the fulfillment of God's plan, but she also endured a mother's anguish as she watched her son die a brutal death.

The true test of our faith and trust comes in our obedience to God. I wonder what would happen if, like Mary, we willingly offered ourselves, without questions or delay, to God's purpose and plan for our lives.

cbn

The Present
Missey Butler

Every Christmas Eve my mother would tell me and my brothers that we could go to the living room, pick out one present from under the tree and open it up. Sitting by the crackling fireplace, all dressed in our flannel jammies, we would scramble toward the bundles of beautifully wrapped boxes. Anxiously holding, squeezing, and shaking each one, our imaginations carried us to great heights of anticipation.

Although no longer a child, this holiday season I was given the same wonderful opportunity of opening an early Christmas present. This one, however, was given to me by my heavenly Father. I don’t mind telling you that this present has ended up being one of the most liberating gifts I have ever received, one that I will forever hold dear.

For so long I have found myself living my daily life in one of two places. I am either in the regret of yesterday or the anxiety of tomorrow, never truly living in the moment of today. My mind always seemed to be engaged in a “tug of war,” being pulled backward or forward, leaving little room for the peace of a present day reality.

What brought this truth home to me was when I began to grasp more insight into the principles of living in the Kingdom NOW! The awareness that the Kingdom of God is righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit coupled with the profound knowledge that the Holy Spirit’s present location was on the inside of ME!

…The Kingdom of God is within you. (Luke 17:21)

And, not only that, but it was available to me TODAY, not in some far off distant future! The Word clearly tells us, “…For the Kingdom of God is at hand.” (Matthew 3:2)

Can you imagine what blissful wonder and sheer delight began to pour into my soul as I discovered that Christ is truly my all in all … right now, at this very moment! It's all Him, the whole kit & kaboodle. The Word tells us “…for Christ is all and in all.” (Col. 3:11) All my past, all my present, and all my future!

For the first time I began to see the beauty and liberty of living in the present. As this truth continued to unfold to me, an interesting thing started to happen. I began to notice the little things of “now living”! For instance, the uninhibited giggle of a passing child, the rustling of a gentle wind as it moves across the tree tops, the cold nose of my dog as he nudges my hand hoping to get my attention.

No longer was I rushing past what seemed to be the ordinary or mundane of daily living at such a fast and furious pace because there were bigger fish to fry tomorrow, nor was I dealing with left over guilt that was demanding to be heard from my yesterday’s before.

As this Christmas season draws closer, I am thankful to God for allowing me to open “early” the wonderful gift of experiencing the “PRESENT” in all of its splendor and glory, one savoring moment at a time. I no longer take anything for granted, for tomorrow is promised to no one. All I have is the gift of this “present” day and when looking through Kingdom eyes, it’s a pretty magnificent scene. The Kingdom of Heaven is not something that we take, but rather something that takes us. It’s an active, living, continual knowing of the person of God, in His presence, one glorious moment at a time.

After all, He is our Present…He is the Great I AM!

cbn

grad-school gratitude

15 Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. 18 And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit, 19 addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with all your heart, 20 giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, 21 submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ. Ephesians 5:15-21

Maybe your mom was like mine. No sooner had someone given me a cookie than I would feel her elbow in my side and heard her whisper, “Say thank you.” It's a good habit to get into. My wife and I now poke our kids with the “Say thank you” instruction.

As right as it is to say “thank you,” what God desires is a grateful attitude much deeper than surface, verbal gratitude. Genuine gratitude goes past obligation and shows that we truly appreciate what we have received from him. To understand this step of maturity, let's go back to school. Consider the following curriculum and ask yourself what grade you're in:

Elementary-school thanksgiving instructs us to “offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name” (Hebrews 13:15). In effect, we say to God, “You helped me, and I thank you for it. My obligation has been met.” It's good that we're doing what's required at this level, but we shouldn't expect a lot of joy to flow from our perfunctory thankfulness.

High-school thanksgiving is better. “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thessalonians 5:18). In every situation, you and I can always make the decision to be thankful for something. Yes, always. This gratitude does produce joy—as long as you're not going through anything too difficult.

Graduate-school thanksgiving leads to real joy. “Giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father” (Ephesians 5:20). This goes beyond the high-school course that seeks to find a good aspect in a challenging circumstance. This is thankfulness that trusts God and is even grateful for the things you would not choose. It's gratitude that promises victory in every circumstance.

Whatever our situation, by faith you and I need to get to the place where we allow the Lord to draw out genuine thankfulness from our hearts. This means true gratitude for everything he allows into our lives. That kind of thanksgiving delivers a depth of joy that cannot be experienced any other way. —James MacDonald walkintheword.com

seeking: Father, how will I thank you this moment? How have you challenged me to attain true gratitude?

responding: What are the good things that are coming from a difficult circumstance in my life right now? In what ways am I thankful for this situation, which I really wouldn't choose?

Thank you, God, for the good things you've given me. Thank you for your grace that allows me to see your hand in hard times. Thank you, God, for this difficult thing that you are using in my life. You've allowed it because you love me, and I trust you.

following: Genuine gratitude produces great joy.

our journey

Getting a Handle on Handel
John Fischer

I hauled down the Christmas boxes from the attic this weekend, a little earlier than usual, but with my daughter's college graduation in mid-December, we figured we'd better get an early start on what we anticipate is going to be a short season for us. Of course with the boxes come the Christmas CDs, and the first one I popped in our player on Sunday morning was a collection of all the choruses from Handel's Messiah.

This work has a huge tug on my heart, having grown up with choirs that performed at least some portion of the Messiah almost every year. My father directed our church choir when I was a kid, and my mom and older siblings all sang in it at one time or another, as did I when I was old enough. Those choruses with the repetitive sections, as in, “For unto us a child is bo-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-rn! Unto us (unto us)… a Son is give- (a Son is given)” are second nature to me. (Isaiah 9:6)

Once as a teenager home from school with the flu, I discovered the family's four album set of the complete works of Handel's Messiah, and I spent the day listening to and following the lyrics for the first time from start to finish. I was a basket case when it was over - emotionally exhausted over the power of the gospel and the meaning of the scriptures this piece contains, for there isn't one word in Messiah that doesn't come from the King James Version of the Bible.

So yesterday, I was recalling all this and something new hit me. If you know anything about this classical work, you know that every chorus is made up lyrically of no more than one sentence or even a phrase from the Bible that gradually unfolds as it is sung. For instance, there's one complete chorus with the lyric, “For as in Adam all die,” and another chorus for, “So in Christ shall all be made alive.” (1 Corinthians 15:22)

There was a time when these long-winded renderings seemed laborious to me, but yesterday, I couldn't get enough, and suddenly I got it. The statements Handel chose are so significant - so deep in their eternal ramifications - that you can hear them over and over again and never exhaust their meaning.

How many times can you say, “Behold the Lamb of God that taketh away the sin of the world” (John 1:29), and it cease to amaze you? How can you ever get too much of, “Surely, He hath borne our griefs and carried our sorrows” (Isaiah 53:4)? Or what part of, “And the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together; for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it” (Isaiah 40:5), do you not want to hear again?

Lots of local churches have Messiah sing-alongs. I highly recommend the experience, but be forewarned, you may have difficulty trying to sing and cry at the same time.

“King of Kings and Lord of Lords” (Revelation 19:16)!

“Hallelujah!”

PDL

there’s coming a day

17 Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. 18 If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. 19 Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord." 20 To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. Romans 12:17-21

We live in a day of immense injustice. Perhaps never before in human history have more people lived and died under such unpunished wrongdoing. The media can't begin to tell the horrid tales of the immeasurable wickedness. On the international scene there is genocide, vigilante governments, and “ethnic cleansing.” Closer to home we have bankers that embezzle, doctors that deceive, ministers that molest, and on and on.

Doesn't it disturb you?!

We are to fight for justice and speak up for those who can't defend themselves. But there's also something we need to remember. The Word of God says, “Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, 'Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord'” (Romans 12:17).

The world says, “Don't get mad, get even.” God says, “Leave it with me—I'll handle this.” But when our desire for revenge rears up within us, it's tough not to take matters into our own hands.

God knows how hard this injustice thing is for us, and so he begins his action plan by calling us “Beloved,” and letting us know we, the precious people of his love, shouldn't avenge ourselves. Instead, he says, “Leave it to the wrath of God” (v.19). Vengeance is God's responsibility. When we try to get even with people who have injured us or others, we are taking responsibility that belongs to God. He reminds us, “I see what they've done. I may let the hands on the clock go around a few more times, but I have a perfect memory. Trust me with the whole thing.” He says, “I will repay.”

There's a day coming, circled in red on the calendar in heaven. I don't know how many pages will be turned until God balances the books of justice, but the day is coming. In the Bible it's called “the day of the Lord,” the “great day,” or “that day.” It's when God will right all the wrongs, even the score, and bring awful judgment on everyone who has not sought forgiveness from Jesus.

Take the injustices of life that outrage and crush your spirit, do what you can, and give them over to God. Vengeance is God's job and he will take care of it all in a way that defies explanation and staggers the mind. —James MacDonald walkintheword.com

seeking: Father, how has my vision of your justice just been altered? What praise for you is welling up in my heart?

responding: Has personal or wide-scale injustice hindered my ability or willingness to trust God? • How can I stir the faith of others who are bothered by God's seeming lack of response to injustice?

God, please give me a heart of compassion and wisdom to do what I can when I see or experience injustice. Grant me a willingness to trust you to bring about perfect justice one day.

following: Don't get in the way of God doing his job.

our journey

Any Mother's Son
John Fischer

“It's hard, in a court of law, to convict absentee and abusive parents, drug lords, heroine itself, and even the Prince of Darkness,” wrote Matt as he reflected on discovering the drug overdosed body of a teenage runaway and seethed inside for someone to blame. Matt is a man who ministers to homeless kids in downtown Denver. It is a unique ministry that has sprung up due to the desperate need of wandering “gutterpunks” in many American cities.

This is a new kind of “inner city,” not the ethnically divided poor neighborhoods of our cities (a tragedy of its own proportions), these are kids from middle, upper-middle class homes who find home to be a prison of sorts and prefer the “freedom” of the streets, but the dangers are great. These kids suffer across the street from Starbucks. They sleep in alleys along the financial district. They may look like normal kids hanging around a shopping mall but they are at great risk.

Matt and those he works with have created a caring community among these kids. They love them, feed them when they can, teach them the Bible, and try and somehow share their pain without judging them or scaring them away. They see some turn around and can provide the resources to help them when they are ready to do that. They see others stay the same and there is little they can do but love them and try and be there for them, and sometimes, like this time, they have to see them die.

“I'm tired of my friends dying,” says one of Matt's friends on the street. It's a comment Matt himself echoes later as he reflects on the ten kids he has seen die in the last four years of his ministry.

Matt and his organization have a unique mission to a specific need. But it occurs to me that we all probably rub shoulders with people this desperate every day without knowing it. This is not a starving child in a third world country. This is any mother's son right next to you today at the bus stop or Starbucks, and today may be his last. You have to have a reason to live in order to make a necessary change in what is a downward spiral with a powerful grip. We can give people a reason to live through loving them.

Think of it. There could be someone within your reach today to whom an act of love might be the difference between life and death. Love is the reason, and we have it. We can love with the same love the Father has loved us. It's what we are here for.

Lord Jesus, open my eyes to the vacant space inside of someone's life today.

PDL

Wisdom from a Fifth Grade Goalie
John Fischer

Our devotional thought for today comes by way of one of our readers who, inspired by my “soccer devotionals,” wrote me about her own soccer experience as a parent. I thought her insights were worth sharing with everyone.

I have really enjoyed your devotionals about soccer. I, too, remember when my daughter started in first grade. Usually, she was the goalie. Mostly she was a ballerina. She couldn’t prevent the other team from scoring unless she was in the middle of a very intense dance routine like pirouetting, doing the arabesque or practicing her positions. To all of this, her coach would just laugh. We had that coach for four years and I think patience is probably his best virtue.

This year, our coach was different. He is a former military man. He is fierce, disciplined, unforgiving and unfortunately, extremely sarcastic and belittling. Great for marines, I suppose. Not so great for fifth grade girls. But, we stuck it out, kept our mouths shut, and counted down the weeks until the season was over. After our final game, I stared in amazement as my daughter, who really disliked this man, went to him and thanked him for taking the time to coach her. I couldn't believe it. She had endured his insults, ridicule and snide remarks. I asked her why she had done that, and she said that maybe he was not nice because no one had been nice to him.

From the mouth of a fifth grader comes incredibly simple wisdom. Almost always this is the case. Abusers have been abused. Oppressors have been oppressed. The neglected become neglectful. How else do we know what to do? We have been trained in our vices.

Two lessons here: 1) Realize how important it is to treat people well. 2) Realize that those who err in their own handling of relationships have most likely had poor examples from which to learn. This is not an excuse for bad behavior, but it does help to understand and break the cycle. When possible, it helps to give a different response than what a poor attitude typically engenders.

“You have heard that the Law of Moses says, `Love your neighbor' and hate your enemy,” Jesus said. “But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven. For he gives his sunlight to both the evil and the good, and he sends rain on the just and on the unjust, too. If you love only those who love you, what good is that? Even corrupt tax collectors do that much. If you are kind only to your friends, how are you different from anyone else” (Matthew 5:43-47)?

PDL

the test of plenty

4 Then the Lord said to Moses, “Behold, I am about to rain bread from heaven for you, and the people shall go out and gather a day's portion every day, that I may test them, whether they will walk in my law or not. 5 On the sixth day, when they prepare what they bring in, it will be twice as much as they gather daily.” . . . 13 In the evening quail came up and covered the camp, and in the morning dew lay around the camp. 14 And when the dew had gone up, there was on the face of the wilderness a fine, flake-like thing, fine as frost on the ground. 15 When the people of Israel saw it, they said to one another, “What is it?” For they did not know what it was. And Moses said to them, “It is the bread that the Lord has given you to eat.” Exodus 16:4-15

The account of God supplying manna to the children of Israel is one of Scripture's most beautiful expressions of God's provision. He allowed his children to become hungry in a barren wilderness. They had neither means nor hope of acquiring food on their own. God rained down bread from heaven's kitchen 6 days a week for 40 years. They never had to ask. Surrounded by barrenness, they received plenty.

Tucked away in Exodus 16 is a phrase we must not miss: “That I may test them” (v.4). A constant dose of plenty can sometimes be a more difficult spiritual test than a constant dose of need. We have plenty, but we think we “need” more.

Many wealthy countries are lands of manna. The plenty is a test. What is the purpose of the test of abundance? To “test them, whether they will walk in my law or not.” God is pinpointing an overwhelming tendency in human nature: We are far less likely to be obedient when we are not in need.

Necessity has a way of reordering our priorities, doesn't it? If we belong to Jesus and find ourselves lacking something we think we need, sooner or later we may begin evaluating whether we're living obedient lives that God can bless. Coming face to face with need is a very effective prompter toward obedience.

But what about a daily dose of plenty? I'm not referring to wealth—just the absence of worry as to whether or not our family will eat each week. Like the Israelites in the wilderness, our greatest dilemma is how we'll cook and serve our manna today, not whether we'll have the manna.

Herein lies the test. Must we be in immediate need to live obedient lives?

God is so faithful, so daily. He delights in obedience prompted from something deeply internal—a heart of love and devotion. Ask him today to help you become a child of his whose levels of obedience are less regulated by circumstances and more governed by love. —Beth Moore bethmoore.org

seeking: Father, how has your faithfulness strengthened me this day? How can I show you my worship and thankfulness for what you've done?

responding: In what ways has God tested me with plenty? • Do I have a tendency to be less obedient during times of abundance? Why?

Loving Father, thank you for the abundant provision of manna I receive each day from you. Please forgive me for growing rebellious and disobedient during times of ease. I pray to develop such sincere love and devotion that my obedience will not waver during seasons of famine or abundance. Help me to pass the test of plenty, dear Lord. In the name of Jesus, amen.

following: Times of plenty are a test of our obedience.

our journey

life of gratitude

16 Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 19 Do not quench the Spirit. 20 Do not despise prophecies, 21 but test everything; hold fast what is good. 22 Abstain from every form of evil. 23 Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24 He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24

One way to fortify our lives against sin is to live out active gratitude. Dissatisfaction can grow into a menacing monster. An unsatisfied soul should never be ignored. Ongoing or chronic feelings of dissatisfaction are red flags that need to be dealt with. Such feelings may mean that something vital is missing, and we need to seek God without delay.

Other times, nagging feelings of dissatisfaction can be little more than the byproduct of living in an overindulged society. Think about it. Countless millions of dollars are spent annually by advertisers whose only goal is to convince us that we are not yet satisfied. Sometimes our feelings tell us we're less satisfied than we really are.

How can we know the difference? Apply the phrase Paul gave us: “Give thanks in all circumstances” (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Active gratitude will cure self- or society-induced dissatisfaction. Often we know what our problem is. We even know what the remedy may be. But we must take the medicine the Word prescribes when we're feeling under the weather spiritually.

Many times we don't have a knowledge problem; we have an obedience problem. Give thanks in all circumstances. Just trying to sit like a thankful-looking bump on a log won't cut it. Actively giving thanks is required.

When I'm feeling down or a little bit like a brat, I often sense God speaking to my heart, “Name ’em, child.” I don't even have to ask what he means. He means start naming a mere 20 or 30 of the thousands of ways he's been good to me. God has had such mercy on my life, I ought to be among the most grateful people around, and that's exactly what I want to be.

If our selfish hearts are trying to trick us into feeling a sense of dissatisfaction, a dose of thanksgiving will cure what ails us. If it doesn't, we have a more serious issue, and we must diligently seek the wisdom and remedy of God. —Beth Moore

seeking: Father, what thanks will I offer you this moment? What praise will I offer to you out of gratitude for all you've done?

responding: What feelings of dissatisfaction am I experiencing? What will change in my life if I start to actively give thanks to God?

Father, you are the source of all good things and you are worthy of all my gratitude. Please help me to develop a thankful heart that glorifies you. In Jesus' name, amen.

following: Active gratitude cures dissatisfaction.

our journey

Today's scripture is Galatians 6:7

"Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap."

If you feel like you're under pressure these days, you're not alone. Satan is putting more pressure on more people right now than ever before. He's pressuring us mentally, financially, emotionally and every other way he can. The pressure has gotten so great everywhere that governments don't know what to do. Businesses don't know what to do. Families don't know. Churches don't know.

But, praise God, Jesus does! He says we can give our way right out from under any pressure the devil brings to bear.

Giving is always Jesus' way out. Whenever there's a need, He plants seed! In fact, in Mark 4, He compares the entire kingdom of God to a seed. Just think about the importance of seeds for a moment. Every living thing on this earth came from a seed. You came from a seed. Then you were born again from the seed of God's Word. Jesus Himself was The Seed planted by God. God sowed Him in sacrifice. He came forth and grew up into many brethren.

So, when Satan puts you under pressure, go to Jesus and let Him tell you how and where to plant. If you'll do it, that seed will grow up until it breaks the powers of darkness and lack. It will release you from the pressure the devil's been putting on you.

I've seen it happen. When Jerry Savelle first began to work for my ministry, he didn't have but one suit of clothes and one shirt with a pair of slacks to his name. He wore one, then the other, night after night to every service we held. He didn't have the money to even think about buying another suit. I'm telling you, he was under pressure where clothes were concerned!

Then he found out about the principle of seed-faith and harvest. So, he went downtown in the city where we were in a meeting and found a fellow on the street who needed clothes and gave him some. Immediately people started giving Jerry clothes. It started in that meeting and they've been doing it ever since. Today, there are many preachers in Africa wearing Jerry Savelle suits! (Even if the sleeves and pant legs are way too short!) He's still sowing and reaping the greatest clothes harvest I've ever seen.

If the devil's pressuring you, don't panic...plant! Plant your time. Plant your money. Plant the clothes off your back. When your harvest comes in, you can laugh and say, "Hey, Devil, who's feeling the pressure now?"

bibleshack

Okay, Let's All Get Out Our Cell Phones and Call Each Other
John Fischer

I have found that it is very "in" to condemn the rudeness and intrusion into people's space that has resulted from the widespread use of the cell phone. I have engaged in it once already in these devotionals. Of course this is entirely hypocritical. New technology has a way of altering our lifestyle before we have a chance to fully assess its consequences. This one sprang up so fast that we can find ourselves talking on our cell phones about how rude cell phones are.

Have you noticed how with headphones people appear to be going around talking to themselves? One version looks like a large beetle with a death grip on the wearer's ear. I've been in a public restroom before and the guy next to me says something and I turn to answer him only to discover he's talking to his beetle. He's in another world.

And then have you noticed how quickly we get attached to these new technologies and wonder how we managed without them? And yet if you stop and think about it, we did. We did just fine, as a matter of fact. So why don't we just go back? Well you could if you don't mind becoming out of touch with everyone around you including your own family.

So instead of fighting it, I've decided to think about winning this one. Like most technology, this one has good and bad consequences. What are some situations where a cell phone saved the day, or made something possible that wouldn't have happened without it? I'd love to hear some stories from you especially about how a cell phone was useful for God's purposes. For instance, we're already only a few steps away from small groups meeting to study and pray via cell phone imaging.

Cell phones can bring us into closer communication with those we love and work with, and it's hard to imagine how communication could ever be a bad thing. In heaven we'll have a form of communication that will leave cell phones in the dust (pun intended). I bet we will be in constant communication and have access to anyone, any time. I even bet we'll know stuff about each other in heaven without having to communicate about it. But until then I supposed we'll have to walk around looking like we're talking to ourselves. Do me a favor, though, and don't get one of those beetle things. They really look silly. Some of you may not know yet that you can sign up through your cell phone company to receive a daily text message from Purpose Driven Life. These messages are one liners gleaned from our devotional archives that come to you in the middle of every day. Mine comes every morning precisely at 11:00 a.m. and is always a timely reminder of God's purposes. It's a pretty good use of a cell phone, I think.

To sign up, go to our website at http://www.pdlife.com/proteus.

PDL

in the dark

1 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. 2 He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. 3 He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. 4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. 5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. 6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever. Psalm 23

After the 9/11 terrorist attack, US TV networks devoted many hours to covering memorial services. I was struck by how often Psalm 23 was read during the services. It is appropriate and fitting to use this Psalm to comfort grieving families. But the reference to the valley of the shadow of death is actually broader than it appears.

In his excellent commentary Exposition of Psalms, Herbert C. Leupold states, “The Hebrew word used contains no reference to death as such, but it does refer to all dark and bitter experiences—one of which may be death. So in the common use of the passage, the thought of death need not be excluded, but the reference is certainly much broader.”

The famous phrase could be rendered “even though I walk through the valley of deepest darkness.” The death of a loved one is a valley of deep darkness, but there are other valleys we face in life that can be incredibly dark. The point is this: Whatever valley you are facing, the Shepherd will walk through it with you.

The problem with being in the dark is that you have no reference point. You don't know where you are. You've lost all perspective and all sense of direction. You hesitate to take the next step because you don't know if you'll land on terra firma or if you'll flail in thin air. We hate to be in the dark. It may be in our career, a relationship, or our health that we suddenly experience its stifling ways.

Are you reading this during a dark moment in your life? Is the light of hope far removed from your circumstances? Then take comfort in this truth: You're not alone. The Great Shepherd is right there with you. You can't see him but he can see you. He knows exactly where you are. And today he will give you exactly what you need. You may be in the valley of deepest darkness, but you still have the Light of the world lighting your way through it. —Steve Farrar

seeking: Lord, what have you revealed to me about your power over darkness? How have you changed my perspective this day?

responding: What can I learn from facing dark times? How has God revealed his light and love for me when things have been cloaked in hardship? What other Scriptures encourage me when tough times come?

Lord, I thank you for the light of hope and truth that you have revealed. Help me to follow that light and not turn to my own devices. I love you and worship you with all my heart.

following: Darkness cannot overcome God's deliverance.

our journey

my shepherd part 1

1 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. 2 He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. 3 He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. 4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. 5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. 6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever. Psalm 23

"It's a jungle out there.”

Life is a jungle. It's dangerous and it's treacherous. It's full of predators and enemies. You can get seriously hurt in a jungle.

Sheep don't fit in the jungle. Lions—they fit. Giraffes—they fit. Elephants, zebras, and crocodiles—they all fit. But sheep don't fit. They would be out of place in the jungle. It's just not their turf.

In the wilds, a sheep could very easily be transformed into lamb chops in a matter of seconds. That's why sheep don't usually hang out there.

Close to 200 times in the pages of Scripture, God's people are called sheep. Just think of the magnitude of the creation. He could have called us eagles, gorillas, collies, or armadillos. But he didn't. He called us sheep.

Psalm 23 is a dangerous section of the Bible. It's hazardous because we know it so well. Many of us have memorized this treasured text. Even many non-Christians are familiar with it. The danger of Psalm 23 is that it has lost its significance for us because we have become so familiar with it.

But it has something very special for all of us—people living in a fast-track society. Psalm 23 specifically speaks to the pressures of our culture. It is remarkably contemporary. This tiny psalm is critical because it ultimately tells us how we can survive in the jungle of life.

The sum of its verses, in essence, is a survival manual for the modern-day jungle. It is the manual that tells us how to be in it, but not of it. “If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you” (John 15:19). Every sheep needs to know the 23rd Psalm well.

Quite frankly, it will keep you from the lamb-chop fate that every sheep wants to avoid. —Steve Farrar

seeking: Jesus, how have I been moved by the words of Psalm 23? What did you do in my heart as I read it?

responding: How am I troubled today because of what I'm facing in the jungle? • Is there someone who is a threat to me and is committed to doing me harm? • David said, “The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” (Psalm 27:1).

Lord Jesus, you are the Great Shepherd. My life is in your hands. Make me aware today of your presence and your protection. You are greater than any threat.

following: As lambs, we need to listen to our Shepherd.

our journey

do something radical

26 If we go on sinning deliberately after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins . . . 29 How much worse punishment, do you think, will be deserved by the one who has spurned the Son of God, and has profaned the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified, and has outraged the Spirit of grace? 30 For we know him who said, “Vengeance is mine; I will repay.” And again, “The Lord will judge his people.” 31 It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God. Hebrews 10:26-31

The most loving word I can give you today is to tell you straight up that sin is serious. Sin is not a blunder; it's not a weakness. It's not an “oops.” And when we choose to sin, well . . . Hebrews 10:26 gives it to us directly: “If we go on sinning deliberately after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins."

Whoa—this is serious.

When we make sin our choice, we cross the line. The idea here is a rational, intentional, willful decision. When I could choose to do right and I choose to do wrong instead—that's deliberate sin.

All of us struggle at times to forgive, but if I choose to nourish hatred in my heart for a person for days . . . or years—that's deliberate sin.

If I know my bent toward a specific sin, like lust or lying or some addiction, and continue to choose it and then cover it up—that's deliberate sin.

If I know I should serve at church and financially give to ministry, but I can't because I'm overbooked or overspent for months—that's deliberate sin.

When my deliberate choice to sin becomes my pattern—I have crossed the line.

Sin will cut a pathway of destruction across your life like a tornado in a Kansas wheat field. I plead with you to deal aggressively with your private and specific sin patterns. Set up parameters for your attitudes and behaviors where you can get some accountability. Insist on change from the inside out. Give your heart to being different.

Don't tolerate sin anymore; don't rationalize it or play around with it or let it go on month after month and year after year. Make a big move and deal radically with that which will only bring devastation to your life. —James MacDonald

seeking: Jesus, how are you working in my heart right now? How have I seen your holiness anew?

responding: Will I heed this warning or will I blow it off? • How will I target the patterns of sin that have become acceptable to me—those I have tolerated for so long? • Which friend can I trust to hold me accountable in my commitment to change?

No one other than you, Lord, knows my heart and sees my sin. Search me and show me and help me to surrender every cherished and private sin to your holy and righteous standard. Give me the courage to deal forcefully with that which would separate me from you.

following: When we make sin our choice, we cross the line.

our journey

Big Lessons in Small Pictures
Laura Smith

As I looked down into the manger of the nativity scene, the Holy Spirit said to me: "There are big lessons in small pictures."

I began to think about what a manger was used for. It was an "eating place" that held food for the animals -- donkeys,cows, and maybe even sheep.

This seemed to be so small and insignificant, but in Luke, chapter two, God thought it important enough to point it out three times. He also pointed out that the baby Jesus was laid in it.

"Father, I asked, "what is the importance of the manger?"

God led me to the Old Testament, Exodus, chapter 16, which tells about the Israelites being led out of captivity and into the wilderness. They complained about not having food. God gave them "manna" from heaven, which they complained about later also.

From there, my journey continued to the New Testament (John 6). Jesus had fed 5,000 people with five barley loaves and two fishes. Later in that chapter, He tells the crowd and the disciples, "...it is My Father Who gives you the true heavenly Bread. For the Bread of God is He Who comes down out of heaven and gives life to the world. ...I am the Bread of Life, He who comes to Me will never be hungry..." (vs.32b,34&35).

From there, I found myself in Matthew, chapter six. In verses 8-13, Jesus tells us that GOD knows what we need and then teaches us "how" to pray. In verses 11 and12, He says, "Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors."

As I gazed back into the manger, I realized that when Jesus the Messiah was born and laid into that manger that God, Our Father, had sent from heaven Manna that was more holy than any other that was ever sent before. Jesus is our "Manna from heaven."

Sadly, some still complain and want something different, just as the Israelites did. He is the "Bread" that we need to ask to be fed from daily. When we eat from our "Bread of Life" -- Jesus Christ -- it becomes spiritually necessary to get rid of the dirt that is inside. Therefore, we need to ask for forgiveness.

My little sheep, come to the manger and take a second look inside. As you look at the babe inside that manger, whom everyone came to admire, remember that He is the same person who later was rejected, mutilated, and killed for sins He never committed -- but you and I did. Praise God, Jesus arose from the dead! Now, because He did this, we can go to our manger and eat daily from the "Bread of Life" and drink His "Living Water." My little sheep, it's time to eat!

May God bless you with a fresh new look at the birth of our Lord, Savior, and Messiah, Jesus Christ!

cbn