Reading for Jan. 1, 2009 Happy New Year!!!
Gen.1,2 & Luke 1
TOPIC: Inside Out
SCRIPTURE: "Zechariah and Elizabeth were blameless in God's eyes, careful to obey all of the Lord's commandments and regulations." (Luke 1:6)
OBSERVATION: My Life Application Study Bible says Zech & Liz didn't merely go through the motions in following God's laws, they backed up their outward compliance with inward obedience. Unlike the religious leaders whom Jesus called hypocrites. Zech & Liz did not stop with the letter of the law. Their obedience was from the heart, and that is why they are called "blameless in God's eyes."
APPLICATION: I was stopped in my tracks when I came across this phrase "blameless in God's eyes"
Blameless = means not responsible for something wrong having doing nothing bad or wrong
C if these words describe U
On the Inside as well as Out
Innocent Spotless Clean Scrupulous
Untarnished Unblemished Irreproachable
Guiltless Above suspicion In the clear
Pure Unsullied Above Reproach
SO
How did u do?
Well
No matter what you've done in your past
You can begin this New Year by making a choice
to be "careful like Zech & Liz to obey all of our Lord's commands"
PRAYER: Father God, as I begin this new year help me to follow Zech & Liz's example of walking blameless before you from the inside out.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Not Planning On Dying Twice
Reading From Dec. 31, 2008
Revelation 19-22
TOPIC: The Wrong Crowd
SCRIPTURE: "He who overcomes will inherit these things, and I will be his God and he will be My son. BUT for the cowardly and unbelieving and abominable and murderers and immoral persons and sorcerers and idolaters and all liars, their part will be in the lake that burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death." (Rev.21:7-8)
OBSERVATION: As I read these verses, the part that jumped out at me was the "Cowards" are listed in the same crowd as the unbelieving, the corrupt, the murderers, the immoral, the idolaters, the liars, and those practicing magic arts.
A Coward is defined as somebody lacking courage, and somebody regarded as fearful
SIDE NOTE: I don't know about you but I've been a coward before according to that definition.
A deeper investigation into this word reveals that the "cowards" are not those who are simply fainthearted in their faith or who sometimes doubt or question. (Praise the Lord)
BUT
those who turn back from following God.
They are not brave enough to stand up for Christ,
they are not humble enough to accept his authority over their lives.
APPLICATION: I don't know about you but I don't won't to be in with that crowd because if you finish reading verse 8 the consequence of being in that crowd is NOT something I can bear.
Verse 8b reads "... their part will be in the lake that burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death."
As I read these verses my mind went straight to Joshua Chapter 1.
There we find God telling Josh in
Chapter 1: 6 = Be strong and courageous
and again in
Chapter 1:7 = Only be strong and very courageous
and then again in
Chapter 1:9 = "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous!
Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the Lord Your God is with you wherever you go."
Let me repeat it in case you didn't pick up on the repetition
Be strong and courageous
Only be strong and very courageous
Be strong and courageous
This is a command ! ! !
From God
PRAYER: Father God, thank you for reminding me that I am to be courageous in all things because of you. As long as I abide in you, you've got my back. Praise the Lord!!!
Revelation 19-22
TOPIC: The Wrong Crowd
SCRIPTURE: "He who overcomes will inherit these things, and I will be his God and he will be My son. BUT for the cowardly and unbelieving and abominable and murderers and immoral persons and sorcerers and idolaters and all liars, their part will be in the lake that burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death." (Rev.21:7-8)
OBSERVATION: As I read these verses, the part that jumped out at me was the "Cowards" are listed in the same crowd as the unbelieving, the corrupt, the murderers, the immoral, the idolaters, the liars, and those practicing magic arts.
A Coward is defined as somebody lacking courage, and somebody regarded as fearful
SIDE NOTE: I don't know about you but I've been a coward before according to that definition.
A deeper investigation into this word reveals that the "cowards" are not those who are simply fainthearted in their faith or who sometimes doubt or question. (Praise the Lord)
BUT
those who turn back from following God.
They are not brave enough to stand up for Christ,
they are not humble enough to accept his authority over their lives.
APPLICATION: I don't know about you but I don't won't to be in with that crowd because if you finish reading verse 8 the consequence of being in that crowd is NOT something I can bear.
Verse 8b reads "... their part will be in the lake that burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death."
As I read these verses my mind went straight to Joshua Chapter 1.
There we find God telling Josh in
Chapter 1: 6 = Be strong and courageous
and again in
Chapter 1:7 = Only be strong and very courageous
and then again in
Chapter 1:9 = "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous!
Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the Lord Your God is with you wherever you go."
Let me repeat it in case you didn't pick up on the repetition
Be strong and courageous
Only be strong and very courageous
Be strong and courageous
This is a command ! ! !
From God
PRAYER: Father God, thank you for reminding me that I am to be courageous in all things because of you. As long as I abide in you, you've got my back. Praise the Lord!!!
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Choosing to "Cheat"
Reading from Dec. 9 I Tim.5,6; Tit. 1-3
TOPIC: Providing
SCRIPTURE: "But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever." (I Timothy 5:18)
OBSERVATION:"Every day parents and spouses leave their families in the pursuit of success. It's almost as though they're driving down the road, and they get pretty far along before they realize they've left members of their family behind. The tragedy is that many value their careers, success, or personal happiness more than they do their families. They decide that it's too much work to go back, so they just keep driving.
But what many are now realizing is that the hope of happiness at the expense of breaking up a family is an illusion. You can't give up your marriage or neglect your children and gain true success. As Nick Stinnet asserted more than a decade ago, 'When you have a strong family life, you receive the message that you are loved, cared for and important. The positive intake of love, affection, and respect...gives you inner resources to deal with life more successfully."
By: John Maxwell
From his book "Your Road Map for Success"
APPLICATION: So what about you?
Are you providing for your household
Spiritually?
Mentally?
Physically?
Emotionally?
& yes of course
Financially?
OR
Are you cheating them?
PRAYER: Father God, help me, you know I need your help. Help me NOT to cheat my family.
TOPIC: Providing
SCRIPTURE: "But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever." (I Timothy 5:18)
OBSERVATION:"Every day parents and spouses leave their families in the pursuit of success. It's almost as though they're driving down the road, and they get pretty far along before they realize they've left members of their family behind. The tragedy is that many value their careers, success, or personal happiness more than they do their families. They decide that it's too much work to go back, so they just keep driving.
But what many are now realizing is that the hope of happiness at the expense of breaking up a family is an illusion. You can't give up your marriage or neglect your children and gain true success. As Nick Stinnet asserted more than a decade ago, 'When you have a strong family life, you receive the message that you are loved, cared for and important. The positive intake of love, affection, and respect...gives you inner resources to deal with life more successfully."
By: John Maxwell
From his book "Your Road Map for Success"
APPLICATION: So what about you?
Are you providing for your household
Spiritually?
Mentally?
Physically?
Emotionally?
& yes of course
Financially?
OR
Are you cheating them?
PRAYER: Father God, help me, you know I need your help. Help me NOT to cheat my family.
Saturday, November 8, 2008
The "C" Word
Reading from Nov. 9 I Cor. 4-6
TOPIC: Confrontation
SCRIPTURE: "For I indeed, as absent in body but present in spirit, have already judged (as though I was present) him who has so done this dead." (I Cor. 5:3)
OBSERVATION: "Paul had to confront the problems the Corinthians faced, especially the issue of incest in the church. Unfortunately, the leaders failed to deal with this sin. Paul therefore instructs leaders in how to deal with a member who rebels against a life of obedience to the Lord."
APPLICATION: "Why is confrontation so difficult?
We often misunderstand its purpose.
Our goal among brothers should not be
to punish
or excommunicate,
BUT
2 restore.
Confrontation = is a redemptive act of leadership.
So what are the goals of healthy confrontation?
Clarification - I will get a better understanding of the person and what happened.
Change - I hope to get improvement from it. And it may be me!
Relationship - I will likely deepen my relationship with this person.
Purity - As word gets out, the organization will be purified and sobered.
Respect - The organization will likely raise the members' level of respect for the leadership.
Security - People feel safe knowing leaders are strong enough to take a stand."
[John Maxwell's Daily Devotional]
Who do you need to confront?
With the Spirit's help
&
In His timing
Go to the person
In this context
The "C" Word
No longer has to have a negative connotation
PRAYER: Father God, thank you for this redemptive process and help me and all who read this blog to engage in it.
TOPIC: Confrontation
SCRIPTURE: "For I indeed, as absent in body but present in spirit, have already judged (as though I was present) him who has so done this dead." (I Cor. 5:3)
OBSERVATION: "Paul had to confront the problems the Corinthians faced, especially the issue of incest in the church. Unfortunately, the leaders failed to deal with this sin. Paul therefore instructs leaders in how to deal with a member who rebels against a life of obedience to the Lord."
APPLICATION: "Why is confrontation so difficult?
We often misunderstand its purpose.
Our goal among brothers should not be
to punish
or excommunicate,
BUT
2 restore.
Confrontation = is a redemptive act of leadership.
So what are the goals of healthy confrontation?
Clarification - I will get a better understanding of the person and what happened.
Change - I hope to get improvement from it. And it may be me!
Relationship - I will likely deepen my relationship with this person.
Purity - As word gets out, the organization will be purified and sobered.
Respect - The organization will likely raise the members' level of respect for the leadership.
Security - People feel safe knowing leaders are strong enough to take a stand."
[John Maxwell's Daily Devotional]
Who do you need to confront?
With the Spirit's help
&
In His timing
Go to the person
In this context
The "C" Word
No longer has to have a negative connotation
PRAYER: Father God, thank you for this redemptive process and help me and all who read this blog to engage in it.
Thursday, November 6, 2008
ALL of Them
Reading from Nov. 7 Galatians 5-6
TOPIC: Leadership
SCRIPTURE: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control." (Gal. 5:22)
OBSERVATION: The fruit of the Spirit is the spontaneous work of the Holy Spirit in us. The Spirit produces these character traits that are found in the nature of Jesus. They are the by-product of His control - we can't obtain them by trying to get them without His help. If we want the fruit of the Spirit to grow in us, we must join our life to His. We must know Him, love Him, remember Him, and imitate Him. As a result, we will fulfill the intended purpose of the law - to love God and our neighbors.
[Life Application Commentary]
APPLICATION: As you already know fruit comes from planted seeds. Every leader should embrace this marvelous list of inward qualities.
[John Maxwell's Leadership Promises For Every Day]
Evaluate yourself against them:
LOVE - Is my leadership motivated by love for people?
JOY - Do I exhibit an unshakable joy, regardless of life's circumstances?
PEACE - Do people see my peace and take courage?
LONGSUFFERING - Do I wait patiently for results as I develop people or goals?
KINDNESS - Am I caring and understanding toward everyone I meet?
GOODNESS - Do I want the best for others and the organization?
FAITHFULNESS - Have I kept my commitments?
GENTLENESS - Is my strength under control? Can I be both tough and tender?
SELF-CONTROL - Am I disciplined to make progress toward my goals?
Which of these qualities do you want the Spirit to produce in you?
I don't know about you
BUT
I want Him to produce
ALL OF THEM
N Me
PRAYER: Father God, allow the Holy Spirit to produce away.
I want all of them in abundance!
TOPIC: Leadership
SCRIPTURE: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control." (Gal. 5:22)
OBSERVATION: The fruit of the Spirit is the spontaneous work of the Holy Spirit in us. The Spirit produces these character traits that are found in the nature of Jesus. They are the by-product of His control - we can't obtain them by trying to get them without His help. If we want the fruit of the Spirit to grow in us, we must join our life to His. We must know Him, love Him, remember Him, and imitate Him. As a result, we will fulfill the intended purpose of the law - to love God and our neighbors.
[Life Application Commentary]
APPLICATION: As you already know fruit comes from planted seeds. Every leader should embrace this marvelous list of inward qualities.
[John Maxwell's Leadership Promises For Every Day]
Evaluate yourself against them:
LOVE - Is my leadership motivated by love for people?
JOY - Do I exhibit an unshakable joy, regardless of life's circumstances?
PEACE - Do people see my peace and take courage?
LONGSUFFERING - Do I wait patiently for results as I develop people or goals?
KINDNESS - Am I caring and understanding toward everyone I meet?
GOODNESS - Do I want the best for others and the organization?
FAITHFULNESS - Have I kept my commitments?
GENTLENESS - Is my strength under control? Can I be both tough and tender?
SELF-CONTROL - Am I disciplined to make progress toward my goals?
Which of these qualities do you want the Spirit to produce in you?
I don't know about you
BUT
I want Him to produce
ALL OF THEM
N Me
PRAYER: Father God, allow the Holy Spirit to produce away.
I want all of them in abundance!
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
They're Worth It
Reading for Nov. 6 Gal. 3-4
TOPIC: Evangelism / Discipleship
SCRIPTURE: "My children, with whom I am again in labor until Christ is formed in you...
OBSERVATION: Paul led many people to Christ and helped them mature spiritually. Perhaps one reason for his success as a spiritual father was the deep concern he felt for his spiritual children; he compared his pain over their faithlessness to the pain of childbirth. We should have the same intense care for those to whom we are spiritual parents. When you lead people to Christ, remember to stand by them to help them grow.
[Life Application Commentary]
APPLICATION: Labor means to work, especially work that involves hard physical effort over a long period. It also means to undergo the labor of childbirth
Does that describe the effort you put forth in order to see
your family
your friends
your neighbors
your co-workers
come to know Christ?
Does it?
My wife has told me that natural child birth
is some kinda painful
BUT
When she looks at our 3 girls
she says
They're worth it
The same goes for every person that does not
have a personal intimate daily relationship
with Jesus Christ
They're worth it
The toil
The effort
The manual labor
The hard long hours
The struggle
The sweat
The tears
They're worth it
PRAYER: Father God, helping me not to abort the process just because it gets tough and the pain intensives.
TOPIC: Evangelism / Discipleship
SCRIPTURE: "My children, with whom I am again in labor until Christ is formed in you...
OBSERVATION: Paul led many people to Christ and helped them mature spiritually. Perhaps one reason for his success as a spiritual father was the deep concern he felt for his spiritual children; he compared his pain over their faithlessness to the pain of childbirth. We should have the same intense care for those to whom we are spiritual parents. When you lead people to Christ, remember to stand by them to help them grow.
[Life Application Commentary]
APPLICATION: Labor means to work, especially work that involves hard physical effort over a long period. It also means to undergo the labor of childbirth
Does that describe the effort you put forth in order to see
your family
your friends
your neighbors
your co-workers
come to know Christ?
Does it?
My wife has told me that natural child birth
is some kinda painful
BUT
When she looks at our 3 girls
she says
They're worth it
The same goes for every person that does not
have a personal intimate daily relationship
with Jesus Christ
They're worth it
The toil
The effort
The manual labor
The hard long hours
The struggle
The sweat
The tears
They're worth it
PRAYER: Father God, helping me not to abort the process just because it gets tough and the pain intensives.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Kon doo it ~ Kondwit ~ Conduit
Reading from Oct. 30 Mark 5,6
TOPIC: Worthy Vessel
SCRIPTURE: "A women who had had a hemorrhage for twelve years, and had endured much at the hands of many physicians, and had spent all that she had and was not helped at all but rather had grown worse - after hearing about Jesus, she came up in the crowd behind Him and touched His cloak. For she thought, 'If I just touch His garments, I will get well.' Immediately the flow of her blood was dried up; and she felt in her body that she was healed of her affliction. Immediately Jesus, perceiving in Himself that the power proceeding from Him had gone forth,..." (Mark 5:30)
OBSERVATION: This women had a seemingly incurable condition causing her to bleed constantly. This may have been a menstrual or uterine disorder that would have made her ritually unclean and would have excluded her from most social contact. She desperately wanted Jesus to heal her, but she knew that her bleeding would cause Jesus to be unclean under Jewish law if she touched him. Still, the woman reached out by faith and was healed. Sometimes we fell that our problems will keep us from God. But he is always ready to help. We should never allow our fear to keep us from approaching him. [Life Application Commentary]
APPLICATION: As I read over this pasage I couldn't help but think about a conduit
A Conduit is a pipe that carries liquid to or from a place
In the same way water flows through a conduit
GOD
Desires to flow through you
To heal
To comfort
To teach
To show mercy
To love
To....
To....
To....
Is your conduit
free flowing
or
stopped up ?
PRAYER: Father God, please help me to be a vessel fit for the master's use. Use me, work through me all day everyday!
TOPIC: Worthy Vessel
SCRIPTURE: "A women who had had a hemorrhage for twelve years, and had endured much at the hands of many physicians, and had spent all that she had and was not helped at all but rather had grown worse - after hearing about Jesus, she came up in the crowd behind Him and touched His cloak. For she thought, 'If I just touch His garments, I will get well.' Immediately the flow of her blood was dried up; and she felt in her body that she was healed of her affliction. Immediately Jesus, perceiving in Himself that the power proceeding from Him had gone forth,..." (Mark 5:30)
OBSERVATION: This women had a seemingly incurable condition causing her to bleed constantly. This may have been a menstrual or uterine disorder that would have made her ritually unclean and would have excluded her from most social contact. She desperately wanted Jesus to heal her, but she knew that her bleeding would cause Jesus to be unclean under Jewish law if she touched him. Still, the woman reached out by faith and was healed. Sometimes we fell that our problems will keep us from God. But he is always ready to help. We should never allow our fear to keep us from approaching him. [Life Application Commentary]
APPLICATION: As I read over this pasage I couldn't help but think about a conduit
A Conduit is a pipe that carries liquid to or from a place
In the same way water flows through a conduit
GOD
Desires to flow through you
To heal
To comfort
To teach
To show mercy
To love
To....
To....
To....
Is your conduit
free flowing
or
stopped up ?
PRAYER: Father God, please help me to be a vessel fit for the master's use. Use me, work through me all day everyday!
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
InsideOut Uth Leadership Meeting
Hey Guys,
I just got through with a very productive youth leadership meeting.
We're launching into a new 3 week series
I am taking time to debrief from that meeting.
As a result of that
I will not be blogging
I plan to blog tomorrow
Thanks for understanding
Joey
I just got through with a very productive youth leadership meeting.
We're launching into a new 3 week series
I am taking time to debrief from that meeting.
As a result of that
I will not be blogging
I plan to blog tomorrow
Thanks for understanding
Joey
Monday, October 27, 2008
Let's Get Out of Here
Reading from Oct. 28 Job 19; Mark 1,2
TOPIC: Alone Time with You Know Who
SCRIPTURE: "When evening came, after the sun had set, they began bringing to Him all who were ill and those who were demon-possessed.
And the whole city had gathered at the door.
And He healed many who were ill with various diseases, and cast out many demons... In the early morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house, and went away to a secluded place,
and was talking with his Heavenly Father.
Simon and his companions searched for Him; they found Him, and said to Him, "Everyone is looking for You."
He said to them,
"Let us go somewhere else to the towns nearby, so that I may preach there also; for that is what I came for."
And He went into their synagogues throughout all Galilee, preaching and casting out the demons. (Mark 1:32-39)
OBSERVATION: The people came to Jesus in the evening after sunset. This was the Sabbath, their day rest, lasting from sunset Friday to sunset Saturday. The Jewish leaders had proclaimed that it was against the law to be healed on the Sabbath. The people didn't want to break this law or the Jewish law that prohibited traveling on the Sabbath, so they waited until sunset. After the sun went down, the crowds were free to find Jesus so he could heal them. [Life Application Commentary]
Even though the entire city was at Jesus' doorstep
waiting for Jesus to heal them
Jesus took time to talk with His Father
to find out what He wanted him to do.
Were you as surprised
as I was
to hear
what Our Heavenly Father
told him to do?
Just wondering
APPLICATION: Finding time to pray is simply a choice.
It may not appear to be an easy choice
BUT
it is a choice nonetheless.
Like Jesus, we must break away from
our work
our hobbies
our friends
&
even our families
in order to
Find out
what our Heavenly Father wants us to do,
even
if we have to get up very early to do it.
Even
if your house is overflowing with people waiting for you to minister t0 them
You'd better be sure
to check
with your Heavenly Father
to find out if that is what He wants you to do.
Because He may tell you
like he told Jesus ~To Get Out of there
Because there is something else he wants you to do
Until you Narrow Your Focus
&
Make a choice to spend time
ALONE
with your Heavenly Father
You might be missing God's message to you through the Holy Spirit
Hey ________ (Insert Your Name Here)
"Let's Get Out of Here"
Because there is some other work to be done
PRAYER: Father God, I am so glad that I am not responsible to do everything. In light of that help me to make the choice everyday to get alone with you and await your directions and then help me to excel at what you have called me to do.
TOPIC: Alone Time with You Know Who
SCRIPTURE: "When evening came, after the sun had set, they began bringing to Him all who were ill and those who were demon-possessed.
And the whole city had gathered at the door.
And He healed many who were ill with various diseases, and cast out many demons... In the early morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house, and went away to a secluded place,
and was talking with his Heavenly Father.
Simon and his companions searched for Him; they found Him, and said to Him, "Everyone is looking for You."
He said to them,
"Let us go somewhere else to the towns nearby, so that I may preach there also; for that is what I came for."
And He went into their synagogues throughout all Galilee, preaching and casting out the demons. (Mark 1:32-39)
OBSERVATION: The people came to Jesus in the evening after sunset. This was the Sabbath, their day rest, lasting from sunset Friday to sunset Saturday. The Jewish leaders had proclaimed that it was against the law to be healed on the Sabbath. The people didn't want to break this law or the Jewish law that prohibited traveling on the Sabbath, so they waited until sunset. After the sun went down, the crowds were free to find Jesus so he could heal them. [Life Application Commentary]
Even though the entire city was at Jesus' doorstep
waiting for Jesus to heal them
Jesus took time to talk with His Father
to find out what He wanted him to do.
Were you as surprised
as I was
to hear
what Our Heavenly Father
told him to do?
Just wondering
APPLICATION: Finding time to pray is simply a choice.
It may not appear to be an easy choice
BUT
it is a choice nonetheless.
Like Jesus, we must break away from
our work
our hobbies
our friends
&
even our families
in order to
Find out
what our Heavenly Father wants us to do,
even
if we have to get up very early to do it.
Even
if your house is overflowing with people waiting for you to minister t0 them
You'd better be sure
to check
with your Heavenly Father
to find out if that is what He wants you to do.
Because He may tell you
like he told Jesus ~To Get Out of there
Because there is something else he wants you to do
Until you Narrow Your Focus
&
Make a choice to spend time
ALONE
with your Heavenly Father
You might be missing God's message to you through the Holy Spirit
Hey ________ (Insert Your Name Here)
"Let's Get Out of Here"
Because there is some other work to be done
PRAYER: Father God, I am so glad that I am not responsible to do everything. In light of that help me to make the choice everyday to get alone with you and await your directions and then help me to excel at what you have called me to do.
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Persuade
Reading from Oct. 26 Acts 24-26
TOPIC: Sharing Your Faith
SCRIPTURE: " 'King Agrippa, do you believe the Prophets? I know that you do.' Agrippa replied to Paul, 'In a short time you will persuade me to become a Christian.' And Paul said, 'I would wish to God, that whether in a short or long time, not only you, but also all who hear me this day, might become such as I am, except for these chains.' " (Acts 26:27-29)
OBSERVATION: Agrippa responded to Paul's presentation with a sarcastic remark. Paul didn't react to the brush-off but made a personal appeal to which he hoped all his listeners would respond. Paul's response is a good example for us as we tell others about God's plan of salvation. A sincere personal appeal or personal testimony can show the depth of our concern and break through hardened hearts. Paul's heart is revealed here in his words. He was more concerned for the salvation of these strangers than for the removal of his own chains. Ask God to give you a burning desire to see others come to Christ - a desire so strong that it overshadows your problems.
[Life Application Study Bible Commentary]
APPLICATION: As I was reading over this account the verse that jumped out at me was verse 29. Here Paul says, that he wished to God, that whether in a short or long time, not only King Agrippa, but also all who heard him on that day, might become a Christian.
I looked up the word Persuade in my Thesaurus
These are the words I found:
Influence /Convince / Plead your case
Sway / Plead with / Win over
Change some body's mind
Make somebody believe you
Do everything you can
BECAUSE
"How will they call on Him in whom they have not believed?
How will they believe in Him whom they have not heard?
And
How will they hear without a preacher?" (Romans 10:14)
A preacher ?
That's U
YES
YOU
PRAYER: Father God, help me to use everything that is at my disposal to persuade as many people as possible to except you as their personal Lord and Savior!
TOPIC: Sharing Your Faith
SCRIPTURE: " 'King Agrippa, do you believe the Prophets? I know that you do.' Agrippa replied to Paul, 'In a short time you will persuade me to become a Christian.' And Paul said, 'I would wish to God, that whether in a short or long time, not only you, but also all who hear me this day, might become such as I am, except for these chains.' " (Acts 26:27-29)
OBSERVATION: Agrippa responded to Paul's presentation with a sarcastic remark. Paul didn't react to the brush-off but made a personal appeal to which he hoped all his listeners would respond. Paul's response is a good example for us as we tell others about God's plan of salvation. A sincere personal appeal or personal testimony can show the depth of our concern and break through hardened hearts. Paul's heart is revealed here in his words. He was more concerned for the salvation of these strangers than for the removal of his own chains. Ask God to give you a burning desire to see others come to Christ - a desire so strong that it overshadows your problems.
[Life Application Study Bible Commentary]
APPLICATION: As I was reading over this account the verse that jumped out at me was verse 29. Here Paul says, that he wished to God, that whether in a short or long time, not only King Agrippa, but also all who heard him on that day, might become a Christian.
I looked up the word Persuade in my Thesaurus
These are the words I found:
Influence /Convince / Plead your case
Sway / Plead with / Win over
Change some body's mind
Make somebody believe you
Do everything you can
BECAUSE
"How will they call on Him in whom they have not believed?
How will they believe in Him whom they have not heard?
And
How will they hear without a preacher?" (Romans 10:14)
A preacher ?
That's U
YES
YOU
PRAYER: Father God, help me to use everything that is at my disposal to persuade as many people as possible to except you as their personal Lord and Savior!
Friday, October 24, 2008
~ Spoken ~ Thru ~
Reading from Oct. 25 Acts 21-23
TOPIC: The Holy Spirit
SCRIPTURE: "And coming to us, he took Paul's belt and bound his own feet and hands, and said, 'This is what the Holy Spirit says: 'In this way the Jews at Jerusalem will bind the man who owns this belt and deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.' " (Acts 21:11)
OBSERVATION: Agabus seemed to be very confident that he had heard from the Holy Spirit. Furthermore, this message was very specific, and as we continue to read very accurate.
APPLICATION:
Has the Holy Spirit ever spoken through you?
& it been confirmed
If so
what did He say?
was it awhile ago?
If so
why do you think it's been so long?
[Pause! Think about it for a minute.]
PRAYER: Father God, help me to be your mouth piece. Speak through me whenever you need to
TOPIC: The Holy Spirit
SCRIPTURE: "And coming to us, he took Paul's belt and bound his own feet and hands, and said, 'This is what the Holy Spirit says: 'In this way the Jews at Jerusalem will bind the man who owns this belt and deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.' " (Acts 21:11)
OBSERVATION: Agabus seemed to be very confident that he had heard from the Holy Spirit. Furthermore, this message was very specific, and as we continue to read very accurate.
APPLICATION:
Has the Holy Spirit ever spoken through you?
& it been confirmed
If so
what did He say?
was it awhile ago?
If so
why do you think it's been so long?
[Pause! Think about it for a minute.]
I believe the Holy Spirit desires to speak through us everyday
In light of that
I'd encourage u 2
get ready
2 B
~ Spoken ~ Thru ~
PRAYER: Father God, help me to be your mouth piece. Speak through me whenever you need to
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Do they know you?
Reading from Oct. 24 Acts 19
TOPIC: Spirit-Filled
SCRIPTURE: "And the evil spirit, answered and said to them. 'I recognize Jesus, and I know about Paul, but who are you?' " (Acts 19:15)
OBSERVATION: Many Ephesians engaged in exorcism and occult practices for profit. The sons of Sceva were impressed by Paul, whose power to drive out demons came from God's Holy Spirit, not from witchcraft, and was obviously more powerful than theirs. They discovered, however, that no one can control or duplicate God's power. These men were calling on the name of Jesus without know him personally. The power to change people comes from Christ. It cannot be tapped by reciting his name like a magic charm. God works his power only through those he chooses.
[Commentary from Life Application Study Bible]
APPLICATION: I have written in my Bible
beside verse 15 this question
Do they know you?
So
Do they know you?
They knew who Paul was
They recognized Jesus
BUT
Do they know you?
PRAYER: Father God, help me to keep on being filled with your spirit!Everyday all through the day!
TOPIC: Spirit-Filled
SCRIPTURE: "And the evil spirit, answered and said to them. 'I recognize Jesus, and I know about Paul, but who are you?' " (Acts 19:15)
OBSERVATION: Many Ephesians engaged in exorcism and occult practices for profit. The sons of Sceva were impressed by Paul, whose power to drive out demons came from God's Holy Spirit, not from witchcraft, and was obviously more powerful than theirs. They discovered, however, that no one can control or duplicate God's power. These men were calling on the name of Jesus without know him personally. The power to change people comes from Christ. It cannot be tapped by reciting his name like a magic charm. God works his power only through those he chooses.
[Commentary from Life Application Study Bible]
APPLICATION: I have written in my Bible
beside verse 15 this question
Do they know you?
So
Do they know you?
They knew who Paul was
They recognized Jesus
BUT
Do they know you?
PRAYER: Father God, help me to keep on being filled with your spirit!Everyday all through the day!
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
OPEN or Closed ?
Reading From Oct. 22 [Act 15-16]
TOPIC: Your Position
SCRIPTURE: "A woman named Lydia, from the city of Thyatira, a seller of purple fabrics, a worshiper of God, was listening; and the Lord opened her heart to respond to the things spoken by Paul." (Acts 16:14)
OBSERVATION: Lydia was a merchant of purple cloth, so she was probably wealthy. Purple cloth was valuable and expensive. It was often worn as a sign of nobility or royalty.
Lydia was a worshiper of God
She was listening to God's messenger Paul
As a result of placing herself in that position
The Lord opened her heart to respond
APPLICATION:
R U a true worshiper of God?
True worshipers = worship in spirit and in truth
Have you placed yourself under your "Paul"?
If so
RU listening to God through him/her?
God flows through (though not limited to)
worship and authority figures
SO
If you have answered affirmatively to the previous few questions
then more than likely
The Lord will be able to open your heart to receive
and thus
you will have the opportunity to respond correctly
IF NOT
Then
U
R
CLOSED
Just in case U R unaware
Being closed to the things of GOD
IS
A
VERY BAD
place
2 B
Open or Closed ?
The choice is up 2 u
PRAYER: Father God, thank you for this simple and yet profound example through the life of Lydia. Help me to worship you in spirit and truth! Help me to position myself the hear from you through my "Paul"! Please open my heart so that I might respond in a spirit led way.
TOPIC: Your Position
SCRIPTURE: "A woman named Lydia, from the city of Thyatira, a seller of purple fabrics, a worshiper of God, was listening; and the Lord opened her heart to respond to the things spoken by Paul." (Acts 16:14)
OBSERVATION: Lydia was a merchant of purple cloth, so she was probably wealthy. Purple cloth was valuable and expensive. It was often worn as a sign of nobility or royalty.
Lydia was a worshiper of God
She was listening to God's messenger Paul
As a result of placing herself in that position
The Lord opened her heart to respond
APPLICATION:
R U a true worshiper of God?
True worshipers = worship in spirit and in truth
Have you placed yourself under your "Paul"?
If so
RU listening to God through him/her?
God flows through (though not limited to)
worship and authority figures
SO
If you have answered affirmatively to the previous few questions
then more than likely
The Lord will be able to open your heart to receive
and thus
you will have the opportunity to respond correctly
IF NOT
Then
U
R
CLOSED
Just in case U R unaware
Being closed to the things of GOD
IS
A
VERY BAD
place
2 B
Open or Closed ?
The choice is up 2 u
PRAYER: Father God, thank you for this simple and yet profound example through the life of Lydia. Help me to worship you in spirit and truth! Help me to position myself the hear from you through my "Paul"! Please open my heart so that I might respond in a spirit led way.
Monday, October 20, 2008
Been "Sent Out" Lately?
TOPIC: Hearing the Voice of God
SCRIPTURE: "...being sent out by the Holy Spirit..." (Acts 13:4)
OBSERVATION: The church dedicated Barnabas and Saul to the work God had for them. To dedicate means "to set apart" for a special purpose. We, too, should dedicate ourselves to use our time, money, and talents for God's work. Ask God what he wants you to set apart for him.
This was the beginning of Saul's (Paul) first missionary journey. The church was involved in sending Paul and Barnabas, but it was God's plan. Question:
Why did Paul and Barnabas go where they did?
Answer:
The Holy Spirit sent them there
APPLICATION: Has the Holy Spirit ever sent you out?
Where did you go?
What did you do when you got there?
Why were you really there?
How long ago was that?
What about today?
What about right now?
Have you asked the Holy Spirit?
Is there anywhere He wants you to go
Is there anything He wants you to do
Is there someone He wants you to talk to, listen to, pray with etc
Have you asked to be sent out?
If you ask
and the listen
waiting for an answer
it will come
I'd love to hear from you
after
your missionary journey is over
Remember you don't have to go around the world
The person might be right next 2 u
PRAYER: Father God, continue to remind me that I need to ask, everyday! Thank you for all those times you've been sooooo faithful to creatively remind me. Thank you for allowing me to be part of your awesome work.
SCRIPTURE: "...being sent out by the Holy Spirit..." (Acts 13:4)
OBSERVATION: The church dedicated Barnabas and Saul to the work God had for them. To dedicate means "to set apart" for a special purpose. We, too, should dedicate ourselves to use our time, money, and talents for God's work. Ask God what he wants you to set apart for him.
This was the beginning of Saul's (Paul) first missionary journey. The church was involved in sending Paul and Barnabas, but it was God's plan. Question:
Why did Paul and Barnabas go where they did?
Answer:
The Holy Spirit sent them there
APPLICATION: Has the Holy Spirit ever sent you out?
Where did you go?
What did you do when you got there?
Why were you really there?
How long ago was that?
What about today?
What about right now?
Have you asked the Holy Spirit?
Is there anywhere He wants you to go
Is there anything He wants you to do
Is there someone He wants you to talk to, listen to, pray with etc
Have you asked to be sent out?
If you ask
and the listen
waiting for an answer
it will come
I'd love to hear from you
after
your missionary journey is over
Remember you don't have to go around the world
The person might be right next 2 u
PRAYER: Father God, continue to remind me that I need to ask, everyday! Thank you for all those times you've been sooooo faithful to creatively remind me. Thank you for allowing me to be part of your awesome work.
Hey Guys,
Thanks for your patience over the past couple of weeks
With sickness and being out of town
Blogging has not been on my highest priority
As a reminder, today (Monday) is my day off !
In case you are new I don't blog on Monday's
My next blog will focus on the Reading from
Job 9, 10 or Acts 13,14
Thanks for your patience over the past couple of weeks
With sickness and being out of town
Blogging has not been on my highest priority
As a reminder, today (Monday) is my day off !
In case you are new I don't blog on Monday's
My next blog will focus on the Reading from
Job 9, 10 or Acts 13,14
C U Then
Thanks again
JoeyThursday, October 16, 2008
Friday, October 10, 2008
MarriedLife LIVE
FINISH TOGETHER
Hope you enjoyed it!
Just got home 11:20 PM
Very tired
SORRY
NO BLOG
Joey
Hope you enjoyed it!
Just got home 11:20 PM
Very tired
SORRY
NO BLOG
Joey
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Come Hell or High Water
TOPIC: Persistence
SCRIPTURE: "And it happened, when our enemies heard that it was known to us, and that God had brought their plot to nothing, that all of us returned to the wall, everyone to his work." (Nehemiah 4:15)
OBSERVATION: John Maxwell says, "One of the greatest tests of leadership is how you handle opposition. Nehemiah faced the usual tactics of the opposition: ridicule, resistance, and rumor. Nehemiah modeled the right response to all three of these challenges by...
Relying on God.
Respecting the opposition.
Reinforcing his weak points.
Reassuring the people.
Refusing to quit.
Renewing the people's strength continually.
Nehemiah had to deal with problems from without - ridicule, resistance, and rumor - and within - disputes about food, property, and taxes.
Persistence is the ultimate gauge of our leadership; the secret is to outlast our critics. Nehemiah taught us this lesson by staying committed to his ultimate calling." [The Maxwell Leadership Bible]
APPLICATION: So
would those closest to you
use these words:
Determination
Doggedness
Diligence
Resolve
Insistence
Tenacity
Firmness
Steadfastness
Persistence
to describe you?
PRAYER: Father God, help me to never look back, let up, slow down,
back away, or be still regarding what you have called me to do.
SCRIPTURE: "And it happened, when our enemies heard that it was known to us, and that God had brought their plot to nothing, that all of us returned to the wall, everyone to his work." (Nehemiah 4:15)
OBSERVATION: John Maxwell says, "One of the greatest tests of leadership is how you handle opposition. Nehemiah faced the usual tactics of the opposition: ridicule, resistance, and rumor. Nehemiah modeled the right response to all three of these challenges by...
Relying on God.
Respecting the opposition.
Reinforcing his weak points.
Reassuring the people.
Refusing to quit.
Renewing the people's strength continually.
Nehemiah had to deal with problems from without - ridicule, resistance, and rumor - and within - disputes about food, property, and taxes.
Persistence is the ultimate gauge of our leadership; the secret is to outlast our critics. Nehemiah taught us this lesson by staying committed to his ultimate calling." [The Maxwell Leadership Bible]
APPLICATION: So
would those closest to you
use these words:
Determination
Doggedness
Diligence
Resolve
Insistence
Tenacity
Firmness
Steadfastness
Persistence
to describe you?
PRAYER: Father God, help me to never look back, let up, slow down,
back away, or be still regarding what you have called me to do.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
syn·chro·niz
TOPIC: Harmony
SCRIPTURE: "How wonderful it is, how pleasant, when brothers live together in harmony! For harmony is as precious as the fragrant anointing oil that was poured over Aaron's head, that ran down his beard and onto the border of his robe. Harmony is as refreshing as the dew from Mount Hermon that falls on the mountains of Zion. And the LORD has pronounced his blessing, even life forevermore." (Ps.133:1-3)
OBSERVATION: "David stated that unity is pleasant and precious. Unity is important because
#1.) It makes the church a positive example to the watching world
#2.) It helps draw others to our Lord
#3.) It helps us cooperate as the body of Christ
#4.) It renews and revitalizes ministry because there is less tension to sap our energy.
Living in unity does not mean that we will agree on everything
There will be many opinions just as there are many notes in a musical chord.
BUT
We MUST AGREE on our purpose in life
to work together for God
Doing what He has called us to do
Our outward expression of unity will reflect our inward unity of purpose."
[Life Application Study Bible Commentary]
APPLICATION: So
R U
living in harmony
with God?
those you live with?
those you work with?
What is harmony?
Harmony can be defined as a combination of notes that are sung or played at the same time. Changing harmony is one of the most characteristic features of Western music, providing momentum and richness to the melody.
Harmony is a situation in which there is friendly agreement or accord
Harmony is a pleasing effect produced by an arrangement of things, parts, or colors.
Does this
describe
your relationship with
God?
your family?
your co-workers?
your boss?
IF not
what are you going to do about it?
PRAYER: Father God, help me to live in harmony with you and those you have placed in my life all the days of my life
SCRIPTURE: "How wonderful it is, how pleasant, when brothers live together in harmony! For harmony is as precious as the fragrant anointing oil that was poured over Aaron's head, that ran down his beard and onto the border of his robe. Harmony is as refreshing as the dew from Mount Hermon that falls on the mountains of Zion. And the LORD has pronounced his blessing, even life forevermore." (Ps.133:1-3)
OBSERVATION: "David stated that unity is pleasant and precious. Unity is important because
#1.) It makes the church a positive example to the watching world
#2.) It helps draw others to our Lord
#3.) It helps us cooperate as the body of Christ
#4.) It renews and revitalizes ministry because there is less tension to sap our energy.
Living in unity does not mean that we will agree on everything
There will be many opinions just as there are many notes in a musical chord.
BUT
We MUST AGREE on our purpose in life
to work together for God
Doing what He has called us to do
Our outward expression of unity will reflect our inward unity of purpose."
[Life Application Study Bible Commentary]
APPLICATION: So
R U
living in harmony
with God?
those you live with?
those you work with?
What is harmony?
Harmony can be defined as a combination of notes that are sung or played at the same time. Changing harmony is one of the most characteristic features of Western music, providing momentum and richness to the melody.
Harmony is a situation in which there is friendly agreement or accord
Harmony is a pleasing effect produced by an arrangement of things, parts, or colors.
Does this
describe
your relationship with
God?
your family?
your co-workers?
your boss?
IF not
what are you going to do about it?
PRAYER: Father God, help me to live in harmony with you and those you have placed in my life all the days of my life
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Quiet in there?
TOPIC: Child-likeness
SCRIPTURE: "Lord, my heart is not proud; my eyes are not haughty. I don't concern myself with matters too great or awesome for me. But I have stilled and quieted myself, just as a small child is quiet with its mother. Yes, like a small child is my soul within me." (Ps. 131:1-2)
OBSERVATION: The first thing that caught my attention was that the Psalmist made a choice to do and not do certain things.
My Life Application Study Bible had this to say about Psalm 131
"Pride results from overvaluing ourselves above others.
It leads to restlessness
because
it makes us dissatisfied with what we have
&
concerned about what everyone else is doing.
It keeps us always hungering for more. . .
By contrast,
humility
puts others 1st
&
allows us to be CONTENT
w/God's leading in our lives.
Such contentment gives us security
so that
we no longer have to prove ourselves 2 others.
Let humility
&
trust affect your perspective
&
give you the strength
&
freedom to serve God & others."
APPLICATION: How ya doing on the inside?
Is it quiet in there?
Do you feel
at peace?
Do you feel
Calm?
Do you feel
Still?
OR
R U
Stressed?
Worked up?
Enraged?
Restless?
Do you really TRUST GOD?
Do you really BELIEVE that He is in control?
IF you're
Stressed
Worked Up
Enraged
& OR
Restless
It's probably because you don't really
TRUST
or
BELIEVE
That GOD really is in control
IF you find yourself there
Confess it
Repent
Ask Him to fill you with
His Peace
&
His Quiet
Just like a child in his mother's arms
PRAYER: Father God, help me to rest in the fact that you are in control!!!
SCRIPTURE: "Lord, my heart is not proud; my eyes are not haughty. I don't concern myself with matters too great or awesome for me. But I have stilled and quieted myself, just as a small child is quiet with its mother. Yes, like a small child is my soul within me." (Ps. 131:1-2)
OBSERVATION: The first thing that caught my attention was that the Psalmist made a choice to do and not do certain things.
My Life Application Study Bible had this to say about Psalm 131
"Pride results from overvaluing ourselves above others.
It leads to restlessness
because
it makes us dissatisfied with what we have
&
concerned about what everyone else is doing.
It keeps us always hungering for more. . .
By contrast,
humility
puts others 1st
&
allows us to be CONTENT
w/God's leading in our lives.
Such contentment gives us security
so that
we no longer have to prove ourselves 2 others.
Let humility
&
trust affect your perspective
&
give you the strength
&
freedom to serve God & others."
APPLICATION: How ya doing on the inside?
Is it quiet in there?
Do you feel
at peace?
Do you feel
Calm?
Do you feel
Still?
OR
R U
Stressed?
Worked up?
Enraged?
Restless?
Do you really TRUST GOD?
Do you really BELIEVE that He is in control?
IF you're
Stressed
Worked Up
Enraged
& OR
Restless
It's probably because you don't really
TRUST
or
BELIEVE
That GOD really is in control
IF you find yourself there
Confess it
Repent
Ask Him to fill you with
His Peace
&
His Quiet
Just like a child in his mother's arms
PRAYER: Father God, help me to rest in the fact that you are in control!!!
Last Week
Hey Guys,
Sorry for the past week.
Along with being busy
I wasn't feeling well
Even though I was able to go to work
When I got home
it seemed like
I got hit by a tone of bricks
&
each morning was even worse!
O well
I'm feeling better now
Look forward to blogging again
Joey
Sorry for the past week.
Along with being busy
I wasn't feeling well
Even though I was able to go to work
When I got home
it seemed like
I got hit by a tone of bricks
&
each morning was even worse!
O well
I'm feeling better now
Look forward to blogging again
Joey
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Hakuna Matata! ~ NOT
TOPIC: Counting the Cost
SCRIPTURE: "For which of you, when he wants to build a tower, does not first sit down and calculate the cost to see if he has enough to complete it? Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, all who observe it begin to ridicule him, saying, 'This man began to build and was not able to finish.' " (Luke 14:28-30)
OBSERVATION: When a builder doesn't count the cost or estimates it inaccurately, his building may be left half completed. While I was in Brazil back in 1999 I saw many such buildings. The foundation was laid the steel beams were up but that was it, and you could easily see that no one had been on site for a very long time. How sad.
APPLICATION: Will your commitment to Jesus be abandoned after a little while because you did not count the cost?
What are those costs?
Here are some things to take into consideration:
You may face loss of social status
You may have to give up control of:
your money
your time
or
your career.
You may be hated
separated from your family
&
like many of our brothers and sister around the world
even put to death.
I remember hearing a song in one of my kids movies
Entitled: Hakuna Matata!
It means no worries
For the rest of your days
It's our problem-free philosophy
Hakuna Matata!
NOT !!!
Following Christ does NOT mean a trouble-free life.
We must carefully count the cost of becoming Christ's disciples so that we will firmly hold to our faith and won't be tempted later to turn back.
And believe you me
or
just read the bible
&
believe it
YOU
will be tempted
2 turn back
The New Testament is full of warnings to Christians
So
Count the cost
Because
there are cost
to be counted
Count on it
PRAYER: Father God, thanks for keeping it as simple as 1 + 1 = 2.
SCRIPTURE: "For which of you, when he wants to build a tower, does not first sit down and calculate the cost to see if he has enough to complete it? Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, all who observe it begin to ridicule him, saying, 'This man began to build and was not able to finish.' " (Luke 14:28-30)
OBSERVATION: When a builder doesn't count the cost or estimates it inaccurately, his building may be left half completed. While I was in Brazil back in 1999 I saw many such buildings. The foundation was laid the steel beams were up but that was it, and you could easily see that no one had been on site for a very long time. How sad.
APPLICATION: Will your commitment to Jesus be abandoned after a little while because you did not count the cost?
What are those costs?
Here are some things to take into consideration:
You may face loss of social status
You may have to give up control of:
your money
your time
or
your career.
You may be hated
separated from your family
&
like many of our brothers and sister around the world
even put to death.
I remember hearing a song in one of my kids movies
Entitled: Hakuna Matata!
It means no worries
For the rest of your days
It's our problem-free philosophy
Hakuna Matata!
NOT !!!
Following Christ does NOT mean a trouble-free life.
We must carefully count the cost of becoming Christ's disciples so that we will firmly hold to our faith and won't be tempted later to turn back.
And believe you me
or
just read the bible
&
believe it
YOU
will be tempted
2 turn back
The New Testament is full of warnings to Christians
So
Count the cost
Because
there are cost
to be counted
Count on it
PRAYER: Father God, thanks for keeping it as simple as 1 + 1 = 2.
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Friday, September 26, 2008
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Of Course
TOPIC: Your Future
SCRIPTURE: "Unless the LORD builds a house, the work of the builders is useless." (Psalms 127: 1-2)
OBSERVATION: Unless God is in the building of a family that family will never be able to truly experience the bond only God can bring into its relationships.
APPLICATION: I hope from this day forward you consider this verse
BEFORE
you launch into anything of significance
PLEASE
Don't make the mistake
of leaving God out
of your decisions.
BECAUSE
UNLESS the LORD. . . .
Everything will be:
Futile
Useless
Pointless
Fruitless
Unsuccessful
Ineffective
Wasted
Meaningless
Worthless
Senseless
Unproductive
Disastrous
Hopeless
Do you really want these words to describe your future?
UNLESS THE LORD. . . .
They will !!!
PRAYER: Father God, help me never forget that unless your are involved, everything I try will ultimately be lacking.
SCRIPTURE: "Unless the LORD builds a house, the work of the builders is useless." (Psalms 127: 1-2)
OBSERVATION: Unless God is in the building of a family that family will never be able to truly experience the bond only God can bring into its relationships.
APPLICATION: I hope from this day forward you consider this verse
BEFORE
you launch into anything of significance
PLEASE
Don't make the mistake
of leaving God out
of your decisions.
BECAUSE
UNLESS the LORD. . . .
Everything will be:
Futile
Useless
Pointless
Fruitless
Unsuccessful
Ineffective
Wasted
Meaningless
Worthless
Senseless
Unproductive
Disastrous
Hopeless
Do you really want these words to describe your future?
UNLESS THE LORD. . . .
They will !!!
PRAYER: Father God, help me never forget that unless your are involved, everything I try will ultimately be lacking.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
I'm Right Here
TOPIC: TRUST
SCRIPTURE: "as they (Jesus and his disciples) were sailing along Jesus fell asleep; and a fierce gale of wind descended on the lake, and they began to be swamped and to be in danger. They came to Jesus and woke Him up, saying, 'Master, Master, we are perishing!' And He got up and rebuked the wind and the surging waves, and they stopped, and it became calm. And He said to them, 'Where is your faith?' " (Luke 8:23-25)
OBSERVATION: Up to this point Jesus had only
Had a direct confrontation with the devil and overcame him; Cast out demons; Rebuked Simon's mother in laws fever; Healed various diseases with the laying on of his hands; Caused the disciples to catch more fish than they had ever caught at once; Healed a leper and a paralytic; Restored a man's withered hand; Healed a centurion's servant; Brought a dead man back to life; to name a few
And now
The disciples
(those guys that had been w/ Jesus & seen these things)
Even though
Jesus is right there
with them
&
In spite of all those miraculous things He'd done
They were afraid of a storm
More specifically
They were afraid that they
were going to be hurt
or even die!
APPLICATION: As I read this account I couldn't help but wonder what must have gone through Jesus' mind.
To me
He had to be thinking something like ~
Hey Guys, I'm Right Here
I mean I could understand
if you were in the boat alone
BUT
I'M RIGHT HERE
I mean
I'M RIGHT HERE
WITH U
Y then R U afraid
I mean have you so quickly forgotten
EVERYTHING
that I've done
(In case you've forgotten re-read
the OBSERVATION section)
Enough focus on the disciples
What about you?
As you look back on your life
if you are honest
you could make a list
similar to the one in the OBSERVATION section
& yet in spite of ALL that He has done for you
When faced with uncertainty and possible danger
What is your 1st reaction?
Ask those who know you best
Is it fear?
or
Do you simply trust him?
Remember
IF you are a Christ follower
He's
Right
There
With
U
!!!
& Remember
what He's already done
&
SIMPLY TRUST HIM
PRAYER: Father God, help me to always remember that you are right here with me now matter what, no matter where I go or what I do you are right here with me and I need NOT fear!!!
SCRIPTURE: "as they (Jesus and his disciples) were sailing along Jesus fell asleep; and a fierce gale of wind descended on the lake, and they began to be swamped and to be in danger. They came to Jesus and woke Him up, saying, 'Master, Master, we are perishing!' And He got up and rebuked the wind and the surging waves, and they stopped, and it became calm. And He said to them, 'Where is your faith?' " (Luke 8:23-25)
OBSERVATION: Up to this point Jesus had only
Had a direct confrontation with the devil and overcame him; Cast out demons; Rebuked Simon's mother in laws fever; Healed various diseases with the laying on of his hands; Caused the disciples to catch more fish than they had ever caught at once; Healed a leper and a paralytic; Restored a man's withered hand; Healed a centurion's servant; Brought a dead man back to life; to name a few
And now
The disciples
(those guys that had been w/ Jesus & seen these things)
Even though
Jesus is right there
with them
&
In spite of all those miraculous things He'd done
They were afraid of a storm
More specifically
They were afraid that they
were going to be hurt
or even die!
APPLICATION: As I read this account I couldn't help but wonder what must have gone through Jesus' mind.
To me
He had to be thinking something like ~
Hey Guys, I'm Right Here
I mean I could understand
if you were in the boat alone
BUT
I'M RIGHT HERE
I mean
I'M RIGHT HERE
WITH U
Y then R U afraid
I mean have you so quickly forgotten
EVERYTHING
that I've done
(In case you've forgotten re-read
the OBSERVATION section)
Enough focus on the disciples
What about you?
As you look back on your life
if you are honest
you could make a list
similar to the one in the OBSERVATION section
& yet in spite of ALL that He has done for you
When faced with uncertainty and possible danger
What is your 1st reaction?
Ask those who know you best
Is it fear?
or
Do you simply trust him?
Remember
IF you are a Christ follower
He's
Right
There
With
U
!!!
& Remember
what He's already done
&
SIMPLY TRUST HIM
PRAYER: Father God, help me to always remember that you are right here with me now matter what, no matter where I go or what I do you are right here with me and I need NOT fear!!!
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Through You ~~~
TOPIC: Christ-likeness
SCRIPTURE: "And Jesus came up and touched the coffin; and the bearers came to a halt. And He said, Young man, I say to you, arise! The dead man sat up and began to speak. And Jesus gave him back to his mother. Fear gripped them all, and they began glorifying God, saying, 'A great prophet has arisen among us!' and, 'God has visited His people!' This report concerning Him went out all over Judea and in all the surrounding district. " (Luke 7:14-17)
OBSERVATION: My Life Application Study Bible says, "this story illustrates salvation. The whole world was dead in sin, just as the widow's son was dead. Being dead, we could do nothing to help ourselves - we couldn't even ask for help. But God had compassion on us, and he sent Jesus to raise us to life with him. The dead man did not earn his second chance at life, and we cannot earn our new life in Christ. But we can accept God's gift of life, praise God for it, and use our life to do his will."
APPLICATION: The part that really jumped out at me was the reaction of the crowd. Verse 16 says:
1.) Fear Gripped them ALL
2.) They began glorifying God saying 'God has visited us'
&
3.) This report of new life went out all over
?QUESTION?
Does that happen with you?
Has it ever happened?
As a result of what you do,
do people respond to you
the way they did to Jesus?
Are you bringing "new life"
N2 the life of your
Spouse
Kids
Extented Family
Business
Church
Jesus has set things up in such a way
that IF
new life is going to come
it is going to be
THROUGH
YOU
SO
Is "new life" coming through you in the same way it came through Jesus?
In case your wondering
It's suppose to be
The Holy Spirit is wanting
&
waiting for you
To allow Him
2 live the life of Jesus
THROUGH
YOU
PRAYER: Father God, help me to allow the Holy Spirit to bring new life every where I go, in the same ways and for the same reasons that you did!
SCRIPTURE: "And Jesus came up and touched the coffin; and the bearers came to a halt. And He said, Young man, I say to you, arise! The dead man sat up and began to speak. And Jesus gave him back to his mother. Fear gripped them all, and they began glorifying God, saying, 'A great prophet has arisen among us!' and, 'God has visited His people!' This report concerning Him went out all over Judea and in all the surrounding district. " (Luke 7:14-17)
OBSERVATION: My Life Application Study Bible says, "this story illustrates salvation. The whole world was dead in sin, just as the widow's son was dead. Being dead, we could do nothing to help ourselves - we couldn't even ask for help. But God had compassion on us, and he sent Jesus to raise us to life with him. The dead man did not earn his second chance at life, and we cannot earn our new life in Christ. But we can accept God's gift of life, praise God for it, and use our life to do his will."
APPLICATION: The part that really jumped out at me was the reaction of the crowd. Verse 16 says:
1.) Fear Gripped them ALL
2.) They began glorifying God saying 'God has visited us'
&
3.) This report of new life went out all over
?QUESTION?
Does that happen with you?
Has it ever happened?
As a result of what you do,
do people respond to you
the way they did to Jesus?
Are you bringing "new life"
N2 the life of your
Spouse
Kids
Extented Family
Business
Church
Jesus has set things up in such a way
that IF
new life is going to come
it is going to be
THROUGH
YOU
SO
Is "new life" coming through you in the same way it came through Jesus?
In case your wondering
It's suppose to be
The Holy Spirit is wanting
&
waiting for you
To allow Him
2 live the life of Jesus
THROUGH
YOU
PRAYER: Father God, help me to allow the Holy Spirit to bring new life every where I go, in the same ways and for the same reasons that you did!
Monday, September 22, 2008
An Instant Message of Sorts
TOPIC: Listening
SCRIPTURE: "And turning His gaze toward His disciples, He began to say..." (Luke 6:20)
OBSERVATION: To ensure that you get the context I've included verses 17-19 "Jesus came down with the disciples and stood on a level place; and there was a large crowd of his followers, and a great throng of people from all Judea and Jerusalem and the coastal region of Tyre and Sidon, who had come to hear Him and to be healed of their diseases; and those who were troubled with unclean spirits were being cured. And all the people were trying to touch Him, for power was coming from Him and healing them all."
AND
In the midst of this large crowd
Jesus turns and speaks directly to his disciples
***Even if you have just finished the reading for today I encourage you to read Luke 6:20-49 again
APPLICATION: Do you have a Facebook account? If not you should set one up. It has been a great way to reconnect with old friends. Recently I was on Facebook and in the midst of this enormous network of people I received and Instant Message from a friend. This person shared some very specific pieces of information I responded and then we parted ways. I love instant messaging. With it you are able to get right to the point, you can be short sweet and to the point, I love it.
Have you ever been in the midst of a crowd only to have The Holy Spirit "turn" and send you an "instant message"?
What did He say?
How did He say it?
What method did He use to communicate with you?
Do you still remember what He said specifically?
Did you obey?
Are you still obeying?
Listen!
Did you hear that?
The Holy Spirit is speaking
Is He speaking to you?
R U Listening?
PRAYER: Father God, thank you for sending the Holy Spirit to live in me. Thank you that He is not a mute, and thank you that I am not deaf to His voice!
[In case you didn't get the message from the other day. Due to several reasons I am going to try and stay one day ahead on my blogs. I hope that doesn't mess you up. Joey]
SCRIPTURE: "And turning His gaze toward His disciples, He began to say..." (Luke 6:20)
OBSERVATION: To ensure that you get the context I've included verses 17-19 "Jesus came down with the disciples and stood on a level place; and there was a large crowd of his followers, and a great throng of people from all Judea and Jerusalem and the coastal region of Tyre and Sidon, who had come to hear Him and to be healed of their diseases; and those who were troubled with unclean spirits were being cured. And all the people were trying to touch Him, for power was coming from Him and healing them all."
AND
In the midst of this large crowd
Jesus turns and speaks directly to his disciples
***Even if you have just finished the reading for today I encourage you to read Luke 6:20-49 again
BECAUSE
there is a
WHOLE LOT
of Life-changing stuff
packed in those verses
APPLICATION: Do you have a Facebook account? If not you should set one up. It has been a great way to reconnect with old friends. Recently I was on Facebook and in the midst of this enormous network of people I received and Instant Message from a friend. This person shared some very specific pieces of information I responded and then we parted ways. I love instant messaging. With it you are able to get right to the point, you can be short sweet and to the point, I love it.
Have you ever been in the midst of a crowd only to have The Holy Spirit "turn" and send you an "instant message"?
What did He say?
How did He say it?
What method did He use to communicate with you?
Do you still remember what He said specifically?
Did you obey?
Are you still obeying?
Listen!
Did you hear that?
The Holy Spirit is speaking
Is He speaking to you?
R U Listening?
PRAYER: Father God, thank you for sending the Holy Spirit to live in me. Thank you that He is not a mute, and thank you that I am not deaf to His voice!
[In case you didn't get the message from the other day. Due to several reasons I am going to try and stay one day ahead on my blogs. I hope that doesn't mess you up. Joey]
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Whose your Tour Guide?
TOPIC: Following Directions
SCRIPTURE: "Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led around by the Spirit in the wilderness." (Luke 4:1)
OBSERVATION: Jesus was led around by the Holy Spirit into the wilderness for 40 days of testing. Temptations will often come after a really high or low point in our life or ministry. Remember that Satan chooses the times of his attacks. So, we need to be alert and more sensitive in times of victory just as much as in times of discouragement.
APPLICATION: The Holy Spirit will lead us into difficult situations.
Did you catch that word
WILL
In light of that fact
Be ready
When facing trials
1st
Make Sure
U haven't brought them on yourself
through sin
or
unwise choices.
DON'T RUSH PAST THIS
Many people don't want to take
personal responsibility
for their choices!
If
you find no sin to confess
or
unwise behavior to change,
then
ask God to strengthen you for your test.
Finally, be careful to follow faithfully wherever the Holy Spirit leads.
PRAYER: Father God, thank you for this reminder! Help me to willingly submit to the Holy Spirit in the same way that Jesus did.
SCRIPTURE: "Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led around by the Spirit in the wilderness." (Luke 4:1)
OBSERVATION: Jesus was led around by the Holy Spirit into the wilderness for 40 days of testing. Temptations will often come after a really high or low point in our life or ministry. Remember that Satan chooses the times of his attacks. So, we need to be alert and more sensitive in times of victory just as much as in times of discouragement.
APPLICATION: The Holy Spirit will lead us into difficult situations.
Did you catch that word
WILL
In light of that fact
Be ready
When facing trials
1st
Make Sure
U haven't brought them on yourself
through sin
or
unwise choices.
DON'T RUSH PAST THIS
Many people don't want to take
personal responsibility
for their choices!
If
you find no sin to confess
or
unwise behavior to change,
then
ask God to strengthen you for your test.
Finally, be careful to follow faithfully wherever the Holy Spirit leads.
PRAYER: Father God, thank you for this reminder! Help me to willingly submit to the Holy Spirit in the same way that Jesus did.
Friday, September 19, 2008
Any fruit on that tree of yours?
TOPIC: Authentic Faith
SCRIPTURE: "Therefore bear fruits in keeping with repentance, and do not begin to say to yourselves, 'We have Abraham for our father,' for I say to you that from these stones God is able to raise up children of Abraham. Indeed the axe is already laid at the root of the trees; so every tree that does NOT bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire." (Luke 3 8-9)
OBSERVATION: Many of John the Baptist's audience were shocked when he said that being Abraham's descendants was not enough to be in right standing with God. The religious leaders specifically, trusted more on their family tree than on faith for their standing with God. For them, religion was inherited. Jesus' harshest words were to the respected religious leaders, who lacked the desire for real life change. They wanted to be known as religious authorities, but they didn't want to change their hearts and minds. Thus, their lives were unfruitful. [L.A. Study Bible]
APPLICATION: A personal intimate daily relationship with God is
NOT EVER
2 B
handed down from parents to children.
Everyone
That includes you
has to make
their own personal decision
of whether or not
they are going to follow Christ.
Don't ever even think about
relying
on someone else's faith
for your salvation.
Put your faith in Jesus,
& allow
the Holy Spirit 2 begin
right now
2 live
the life of Jesus
through you!!!
PRAYER: Father God, help me to be a strong tree that is always bearing good fruit for you!!!
SCRIPTURE: "Therefore bear fruits in keeping with repentance, and do not begin to say to yourselves, 'We have Abraham for our father,' for I say to you that from these stones God is able to raise up children of Abraham. Indeed the axe is already laid at the root of the trees; so every tree that does NOT bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire." (Luke 3 8-9)
OBSERVATION: Many of John the Baptist's audience were shocked when he said that being Abraham's descendants was not enough to be in right standing with God. The religious leaders specifically, trusted more on their family tree than on faith for their standing with God. For them, religion was inherited. Jesus' harshest words were to the respected religious leaders, who lacked the desire for real life change. They wanted to be known as religious authorities, but they didn't want to change their hearts and minds. Thus, their lives were unfruitful. [L.A. Study Bible]
APPLICATION: A personal intimate daily relationship with God is
NOT EVER
2 B
handed down from parents to children.
Everyone
That includes you
has to make
their own personal decision
of whether or not
they are going to follow Christ.
Don't ever even think about
relying
on someone else's faith
for your salvation.
Put your faith in Jesus,
& allow
the Holy Spirit 2 begin
right now
2 live
the life of Jesus
through you!!!
Remember
Confession of sins
&
a changed life
R
inseparable.
&
Faith without works
is dead.
So
Where's the fruit?
Do you have any fruit on your tree?
PRAYER: Father God, help me to be a strong tree that is always bearing good fruit for you!!!
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
u have MY WORD on it
TOPIC: Revelation from God
SCRIPTURE: "And there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon; and this man was righteous and devout, looking for the consolation of Israel; and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord's Christ." (Luke 2:25-26)
OBSERVATION: Simeon was:
1.) Righteous
2.) Devout
3.) Looking for Jesus
4.) Filled with the Holy Spirit
Simeon had also been told by the Holy Spirit something very specific
APPLICATION: Simeon was very old, but he had never lost his hope of seeing the Messiah.
SO
What about you?
Has the Holy Spirit revealed something to you?
Something very specific
Something that has not come to pass
YET
Before you start questioning
Learn from
&
Follow Simeon's example
Keep doing the right things
Remain faithful
Keep Your Eyes on Jesus
Keep on being filled with the Holy Spirit
&
Remember When God says He's going to do something
U
CAN
TAKE
IT
2
THE
BANK
PRAYER: Father God, thank you for always remaining TRUE 2 your word. I am so glad that I can absolutely, completely and totally TRUST your word.
SCRIPTURE: "And there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon; and this man was righteous and devout, looking for the consolation of Israel; and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord's Christ." (Luke 2:25-26)
OBSERVATION: Simeon was:
1.) Righteous
2.) Devout
3.) Looking for Jesus
4.) Filled with the Holy Spirit
Simeon had also been told by the Holy Spirit something very specific
APPLICATION: Simeon was very old, but he had never lost his hope of seeing the Messiah.
SO
What about you?
Has the Holy Spirit revealed something to you?
Something very specific
Something that has not come to pass
YET
Before you start questioning
Learn from
&
Follow Simeon's example
Keep doing the right things
Remain faithful
Keep Your Eyes on Jesus
Keep on being filled with the Holy Spirit
&
Remember When God says He's going to do something
U
CAN
TAKE
IT
2
THE
BANK
PRAYER: Father God, thank you for always remaining TRUE 2 your word. I am so glad that I can absolutely, completely and totally TRUST your word.
R U Doing This?
TOPIC: Discipleship (From: Tally Ho The Fox)
By: Herb Hodges
SCRIPTURE: "Inasmuch as many have undertaken to compile an account of the things accomplished among us, just as they were handed down to us by those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and servants of the word, it seemed fitting for me as well, having investigated everything carefully from the beginning, to write it out for you in consecutive order, most excellent Theophilus; so that you may know the exact truth about the things you have been taught."
(Luke 1:1-4)
OBSERVATION:
"Luke 1:1 Eyewitnesses (Greek autoptes) = means to self-see
Same root word from which we get the word autopsy which means that the examiner sees for himself the real cause of a person's death.
Luke 1:2 Ministers (Greek huperetes) = means an under rower
This word was used for a gallery slave on board a ship, one who occupied the lowest place to deliver someone else to his desired destination.
Luke 1:3 Investigate (Greek parakolutheo) = means to accompany side by side, to follow closely to attend to carefully. Metaphorically it means to follow closely a mental trail clearly set forth by one who has frequently traveled the terrain, paying attention to every single detail and leaving no stone unturned. It also means the tracing of an outline. "
APPLICATION: "You will never do anything more Christ-like than the training of individuals to live in union with their Heavenly Father inwardly, and to reproduce, multiply, and impact the whole wide world outwardly. Like Luke, we too are to follow His guidance in tracing out the character of Jesus, the course He followed, and the curriculum He used in impacting men - and we are to go and do likewise. Every Christian should see himself as a locked in gallery slave, doing whatever is necessary to master this Gospel, follow its directions, develop a curriculum, and build disciples, all in order to get somebody else to his final destination. Luke has promised Theophilus an orderly detailed written account of Jesus."
SO
How are you doing
with your disciples?
PRAYER: Father God, help me learn from Luke's example as I disciple those you have brought into my life!!!
By: Herb Hodges
SCRIPTURE: "Inasmuch as many have undertaken to compile an account of the things accomplished among us, just as they were handed down to us by those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and servants of the word, it seemed fitting for me as well, having investigated everything carefully from the beginning, to write it out for you in consecutive order, most excellent Theophilus; so that you may know the exact truth about the things you have been taught."
(Luke 1:1-4)
OBSERVATION:
"Luke 1:1 Eyewitnesses (Greek autoptes) = means to self-see
Same root word from which we get the word autopsy which means that the examiner sees for himself the real cause of a person's death.
Luke 1:2 Ministers (Greek huperetes) = means an under rower
This word was used for a gallery slave on board a ship, one who occupied the lowest place to deliver someone else to his desired destination.
Luke 1:3 Investigate (Greek parakolutheo) = means to accompany side by side, to follow closely to attend to carefully. Metaphorically it means to follow closely a mental trail clearly set forth by one who has frequently traveled the terrain, paying attention to every single detail and leaving no stone unturned. It also means the tracing of an outline. "
APPLICATION: "You will never do anything more Christ-like than the training of individuals to live in union with their Heavenly Father inwardly, and to reproduce, multiply, and impact the whole wide world outwardly. Like Luke, we too are to follow His guidance in tracing out the character of Jesus, the course He followed, and the curriculum He used in impacting men - and we are to go and do likewise. Every Christian should see himself as a locked in gallery slave, doing whatever is necessary to master this Gospel, follow its directions, develop a curriculum, and build disciples, all in order to get somebody else to his final destination. Luke has promised Theophilus an orderly detailed written account of Jesus."
SO
How are you doing
with your disciples?
PRAYER: Father God, help me learn from Luke's example as I disciple those you have brought into my life!!!
***Due to the fact that I normally do my blog so late. I am planning on being a day ahead. I hope that doesn't throw you off.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
O What A Day That Will Be!!!
TOPIC: Eternity
SCRIPTURE: "Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the old heaven and the old earth had disappeared. And the sea was also gone. And I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven like a beautiful bride prepared for her husband." (Rev. 21:1-2)
OBSERVATION: My Life Application Study Bible has this to say about Rev. 21:1-2. "The earth as we know it will not last forever, but after God's great judgment, he will create a new earth. God had also promised Isaiah that he would create a new and eternal earth. The sea in John's time was viewed as dangerous and changeable. It was also the source of the beast. God and his followers will be united to live forever there."
APPLICATION: Here are some other things that we know about our future dwelling place.
It is a place prepared for His children
It is a place unlimited by physical properties
We will have new bodies
We will experience God in a new way
We will have new emotions
We will never again experience death
Reading these things reminds me of a song
It goes like this...
"O
What a day
That will be
When my Jesus
I shall see
when I look
upon His face
You know the One
who saved me
by His grace
What a day
that will be
when my Jesus
I shall see
What a day
Glorious day
That will be"
O What A Day That Will Be
Question:
Will you be there?
PRAYER: Father God, thank thank thank for this wonderful promise. That you are going to make all things new. O, my spirit can hardly wait.
SCRIPTURE: "Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the old heaven and the old earth had disappeared. And the sea was also gone. And I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven like a beautiful bride prepared for her husband." (Rev. 21:1-2)
OBSERVATION: My Life Application Study Bible has this to say about Rev. 21:1-2. "The earth as we know it will not last forever, but after God's great judgment, he will create a new earth. God had also promised Isaiah that he would create a new and eternal earth. The sea in John's time was viewed as dangerous and changeable. It was also the source of the beast. God and his followers will be united to live forever there."
APPLICATION: Here are some other things that we know about our future dwelling place.
It is a place prepared for His children
It is a place unlimited by physical properties
We will have new bodies
We will experience God in a new way
We will have new emotions
We will never again experience death
Reading these things reminds me of a song
It goes like this...
"O
What a day
That will be
When my Jesus
I shall see
when I look
upon His face
You know the One
who saved me
by His grace
What a day
that will be
when my Jesus
I shall see
What a day
Glorious day
That will be"
O What A Day That Will Be
Question:
Will you be there?
PRAYER: Father God, thank thank thank for this wonderful promise. That you are going to make all things new. O, my spirit can hardly wait.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Sweet Rest
Due to just being tired
Nothing more
Nothing less
I will not be blogging tonight
Sleep good
I know I plan to
Joey
Nothing more
Nothing less
I will not be blogging tonight
Sleep good
I know I plan to
Joey
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Friday, September 12, 2008
Bloom Where U R Planted!
"Rare are the people who begin their careers as stars. And those who do sometimes find that their success is like that of some child actors: after a brief flash in the pan, they are never able to recapture the attention they got early on.
Most successful people go through an apprenticeship or period of seasoning. Look at quarterback Joe Montana, who was inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame in 2000. He spent two years on the bench as a backup before being named the San Francisco 49ers starter. And as he was breaking records and leading his team to Super Bowls, the person who sat on the bench as a backup to him was Steve Young, another great quarterback.
Some talented team members are recognized early for their great potential and are groomed to succeed. Others labor in obscurity for years - learning, growing, and gaining experience. Then after a decade of hard work, they become "overnight success."
Given the right encouragement, training , and opportunities, nearly anyone with desire has the potential to emerge as an impact player."
From John Maxwell's Book
The 17 Indisputable Laws of Teamwork
Most successful people go through an apprenticeship or period of seasoning. Look at quarterback Joe Montana, who was inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame in 2000. He spent two years on the bench as a backup before being named the San Francisco 49ers starter. And as he was breaking records and leading his team to Super Bowls, the person who sat on the bench as a backup to him was Steve Young, another great quarterback.
Some talented team members are recognized early for their great potential and are groomed to succeed. Others labor in obscurity for years - learning, growing, and gaining experience. Then after a decade of hard work, they become "overnight success."
Given the right encouragement, training , and opportunities, nearly anyone with desire has the potential to emerge as an impact player."
From John Maxwell's Book
The 17 Indisputable Laws of Teamwork
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Remember & Learn
As you Remember 9/11
Remember Abraham & learn from him.
Devotional From Streams In The Desert (Page 345-6)
"Abraham was tested for a very long time, but he was richly rewarded. The Lord test him by delaying the fulfillment of His promise. Satan tested him through temptation, and people tested him through their jealousy, distrust, and opposition to him. Sarah tested him through her worrisome temperament. Yet he patiently endured, NOT questioning God's TRUTHFULNESS
&
POWER
OR
doubting God's
FAITHFULNESS
&
LOVE
Instead, Abraham submitted to God's divine sovereignty and infinite wisdom. And he was silent through many delays, willing to wait for the Lord's timing. Having patiently endured, he then obtained the fulfillment of the promise.
Beloved, God's promises can NEVER fail to be accomplished, and those who PATIENTLY WAIT can NEVER be disappointed, for believing faith leads to realization. Abraham's life condemns a spirit of hastiness, admonishes those who complain, commends those who are patient and encourages quiet submission to God's will and way.
Remember, Abraham was tested
BUT
PATIENTLY WAITED
ultimately received what was promised, and was satisfied. If you will imitate his example, you will share the same blessing."
Remember Abraham & learn from him.
Devotional From Streams In The Desert (Page 345-6)
September 11
"After waiting patiently,
Abraham received what was promised." (Hebrews 6:15)
"Abraham was tested for a very long time, but he was richly rewarded. The Lord test him by delaying the fulfillment of His promise. Satan tested him through temptation, and people tested him through their jealousy, distrust, and opposition to him. Sarah tested him through her worrisome temperament. Yet he patiently endured, NOT questioning God's TRUTHFULNESS
&
POWER
OR
doubting God's
FAITHFULNESS
&
LOVE
Instead, Abraham submitted to God's divine sovereignty and infinite wisdom. And he was silent through many delays, willing to wait for the Lord's timing. Having patiently endured, he then obtained the fulfillment of the promise.
Beloved, God's promises can NEVER fail to be accomplished, and those who PATIENTLY WAIT can NEVER be disappointed, for believing faith leads to realization. Abraham's life condemns a spirit of hastiness, admonishes those who complain, commends those who are patient and encourages quiet submission to God's will and way.
Remember, Abraham was tested
BUT
PATIENTLY WAITED
ultimately received what was promised, and was satisfied. If you will imitate his example, you will share the same blessing."
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Rabbit Trail
I know this is NOT part of our reading today
BUT
I thought that this devotional from
Oswald Chambers My Utmost for His Highest
was so good that I couldn't help but share it with you.
Sept. 10 Missionary Weapons
Worshiping in Everyday Occasions.
"When you were under the fig tree, I saw you" (John 1:48)
"We presume that we would be ready for battle if confronted with a great crisis,
BUT it is NOT the crisis that builds something within us -- it simply reveals what we are made of already. Do you find yourself saying, "IF God calls me to battle, of course I will rise to the occasion"?
Yet you won't rise to the occasion unless you have done so on God's training ground.
If you are not doing the task that is closest to you now,
which God has engineered into your life,
when the crisis comes,
instead of being fit for battle,
you will be revealed as being unfit.
Crises always reveal a person's true character.
A private relationship of worshiping God is the greatest essential element of spiritual fitness. The time will come, as Nathanael experienced in the passage, that a private "fig-tree" life will not longer be possible. Everything will be out in the open, and you will find yourself to be of no value there if you have not been worshiping in everyday occasions in your own home. If your worship is right in your private relationship with God, then when He sets you free, you will be ready. It is in the unseen life, which only God saw, that you have become perfectly fit. And when the strain of the crisis comes, you can be relied upon by God.
Are you saying, "But I can't be expected to live a sanctified life in my present circumstances; I have NO time for prayer or Bible study right now; besides, my opportunity for battle hasn't come yet, BUT when it does, of course I will be ready"?
No, you will NOT!!!
If you have NOT been worshiping in everyday occasions,
when you get involved in God's work,
you will NOT only be useless yourself,
BUT also a hindrance to those around you.
God's training ground, where the missionary weapons are found,
is the hidden, personal, worshiping life the saint."
BUT
I thought that this devotional from
Oswald Chambers My Utmost for His Highest
was so good that I couldn't help but share it with you.
Sept. 10 Missionary Weapons
Worshiping in Everyday Occasions.
"When you were under the fig tree, I saw you" (John 1:48)
"We presume that we would be ready for battle if confronted with a great crisis,
BUT it is NOT the crisis that builds something within us -- it simply reveals what we are made of already. Do you find yourself saying, "IF God calls me to battle, of course I will rise to the occasion"?
Yet you won't rise to the occasion unless you have done so on God's training ground.
If you are not doing the task that is closest to you now,
which God has engineered into your life,
when the crisis comes,
instead of being fit for battle,
you will be revealed as being unfit.
Crises always reveal a person's true character.
A private relationship of worshiping God is the greatest essential element of spiritual fitness. The time will come, as Nathanael experienced in the passage, that a private "fig-tree" life will not longer be possible. Everything will be out in the open, and you will find yourself to be of no value there if you have not been worshiping in everyday occasions in your own home. If your worship is right in your private relationship with God, then when He sets you free, you will be ready. It is in the unseen life, which only God saw, that you have become perfectly fit. And when the strain of the crisis comes, you can be relied upon by God.
Are you saying, "But I can't be expected to live a sanctified life in my present circumstances; I have NO time for prayer or Bible study right now; besides, my opportunity for battle hasn't come yet, BUT when it does, of course I will be ready"?
No, you will NOT!!!
If you have NOT been worshiping in everyday occasions,
when you get involved in God's work,
you will NOT only be useless yourself,
BUT also a hindrance to those around you.
God's training ground, where the missionary weapons are found,
is the hidden, personal, worshiping life the saint."
Monday, September 8, 2008
Sunday, September 7, 2008
And they, What about you?
TOPIC: OVERCOMER
SCRIPTURE: "And they have defeated him because of the blood of the Lamb and because of their testimony. Andy they were not afraid to die." (Rev. 12:11)
OBSERVATION:"The critical blow to Satan came when the Lamb, Jesus Christ, shed his blood for our sins. The victory is won by sacrifice - Christ's death IN OUR PLACE to pay the penalty of OUR SIN, and the sacrifices we make because of our faith in him. As we face the battle with Satan, we should not fear it or try to escape from it, but we should loyally serve Christ, who alone brings victory."
[Life Application Study Bible Commentary]
APPLICATION: And they overcame him(Satan) by 3 things:
#1.) The Work of Christ on the Cross
#2.) The Word of their Testimony
&
#3.) Their Willingness to Die
What about you?
Are you overcoming?
or
Being overcome
Don't forget
It's as easy as
1
2
3
Jesus Blood
Your Testimony
&
Your Willingness
2
DIE
It's really that simple
PRAYER: Father God, thank you for once again laying it out sooooo clearly!
SCRIPTURE: "And they have defeated him because of the blood of the Lamb and because of their testimony. Andy they were not afraid to die." (Rev. 12:11)
OBSERVATION:"The critical blow to Satan came when the Lamb, Jesus Christ, shed his blood for our sins. The victory is won by sacrifice - Christ's death IN OUR PLACE to pay the penalty of OUR SIN, and the sacrifices we make because of our faith in him. As we face the battle with Satan, we should not fear it or try to escape from it, but we should loyally serve Christ, who alone brings victory."
[Life Application Study Bible Commentary]
APPLICATION: And they overcame him(Satan) by 3 things:
#1.) The Work of Christ on the Cross
#2.) The Word of their Testimony
&
#3.) Their Willingness to Die
What about you?
Are you overcoming?
or
Being overcome
Don't forget
It's as easy as
1
2
3
Jesus Blood
Your Testimony
&
Your Willingness
2
DIE
It's really that simple
PRAYER: Father God, thank you for once again laying it out sooooo clearly!
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Will U B THE 1?
TOPIC: Ministry
SCRIPTURE: "I searched for a man among them who would build up the wall and stand in the gap before Me for the land, so that I would not destroy it; BUT I FOUND NO ONE." (Ezekiel 22:30)
OBSERVATION: My Life Application Study Bible includes this commentary for this section. "The wall spoken of here is not made of stones but faithful people united in their efforts to resist evil. This wall was in disrepair because there was no one who could lead the people back to God. The feeble attempts to repair the gap - through religious rituals or messages based on opinion rather than God's will - were as worthless as whitewash, only covering over the real problems. What the people really needed was total spiritual reconstruction!"
APPLICATION: "When we give the appearance of loving God without living his way, we are covering up sins that could eventually damage us deeply.
Don't use religion
as a whitewash
repair your life
by
applying the principles
of God's Word.
Then
you can join with others
to stand
"in the gap"
&
make a difference
4 God
N
your
world."
R U
READY?
R U
WILLING?
R U
THE ONE?
PRAYER: Father God, help me to be found as one that is ready and willing to "build up the wall" and "stand in the gap"!!!
SCRIPTURE: "I searched for a man among them who would build up the wall and stand in the gap before Me for the land, so that I would not destroy it; BUT I FOUND NO ONE." (Ezekiel 22:30)
OBSERVATION: My Life Application Study Bible includes this commentary for this section. "The wall spoken of here is not made of stones but faithful people united in their efforts to resist evil. This wall was in disrepair because there was no one who could lead the people back to God. The feeble attempts to repair the gap - through religious rituals or messages based on opinion rather than God's will - were as worthless as whitewash, only covering over the real problems. What the people really needed was total spiritual reconstruction!"
APPLICATION: "When we give the appearance of loving God without living his way, we are covering up sins that could eventually damage us deeply.
Don't use religion
as a whitewash
repair your life
by
applying the principles
of God's Word.
Then
you can join with others
to stand
"in the gap"
&
make a difference
4 God
N
your
world."
R U
READY?
R U
WILLING?
R U
THE ONE?
PRAYER: Father God, help me to be found as one that is ready and willing to "build up the wall" and "stand in the gap"!!!
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
A little R & R
TOPIC: Sabbath
SCRIPTURE: "And I gave them my Sabbath days of rest as a sign between them and me. It was to remind them that I, the LORD, had set them apart to be holy, making them my special people..." (Ezekiel 20:12)
OBSERVATION: The Sabbath was created as a gift to HIS children.
It was to remind the children of Israel that they were to be
Set apart
Specifically to be Holy
BUT
The children of Israel rebelled against GOD,
&
They refused to obey HIS laws there in the wilderness.
They wouldn't obey HIS instructions
even though obedience would have given them life.
&
They also violated HIS Sabbath days.
So I threatened to pour out my fury on them, and I made plans to utterly consume them in the desert. (Ezekiel 20:13)
APPLICATION: On each and every Sabbath
GOD
want us
that's
U
&
ME
GOD
wants
US
2
REST
REFOCUS
&
REMEMBER
H
I
M
Does that describe your Sabbath's?
It needs to
BECAUSE
That's what
it's designed 4
DECLARE IT:
From here on out ~ ~ ~
REST
REFOCUS
&
REMEMBERING HIM
will describe each and every Sabbath
that I have!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
PRAYER: Father God, thank you for each and every day of rest that you have given me. Help me to take full advantage of each and every one.
SCRIPTURE: "And I gave them my Sabbath days of rest as a sign between them and me. It was to remind them that I, the LORD, had set them apart to be holy, making them my special people..." (Ezekiel 20:12)
OBSERVATION: The Sabbath was created as a gift to HIS children.
It was to remind the children of Israel that they were to be
Set apart
Specifically to be Holy
BUT
The children of Israel rebelled against GOD,
&
They refused to obey HIS laws there in the wilderness.
They wouldn't obey HIS instructions
even though obedience would have given them life.
&
They also violated HIS Sabbath days.
So I threatened to pour out my fury on them, and I made plans to utterly consume them in the desert. (Ezekiel 20:13)
APPLICATION: On each and every Sabbath
GOD
want us
that's
U
&
ME
GOD
wants
US
2
REST
REFOCUS
&
REMEMBER
H
I
M
Does that describe your Sabbath's?
It needs to
BECAUSE
That's what
it's designed 4
DECLARE IT:
From here on out ~ ~ ~
REST
REFOCUS
&
REMEMBERING HIM
will describe each and every Sabbath
that I have!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
PRAYER: Father God, thank you for each and every day of rest that you have given me. Help me to take full advantage of each and every one.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
+1
Today would be the + 1
And
Since today is also my day off
And
Since I don't blog on my day's off
I will not be blogging today
Hope you've had a safe and joyful
Labor Day Weekend
Joey
And
Since today is also my day off
And
Since I don't blog on my day's off
I will not be blogging today
Hope you've had a safe and joyful
Labor Day Weekend
Joey
Monday, September 1, 2008
DAY OFF +1
It's not only my day off
BUT
It's also Labor Day
which is a holiday
Therefore
I not only have today off
BUT
I also have tomorrow off
How exciting!!!
Have a Great Labor Day
Joey
BUT
It's also Labor Day
which is a holiday
Therefore
I not only have today off
BUT
I also have tomorrow off
How exciting!!!
Have a Great Labor Day
Joey
Sunday, August 31, 2008
in MY spirit
TOPIC: Listening to the wrong voice
SCRIPTURE: "Thus says the Lord GOD, 'Woe to the foolish prophets who are following their own spirit and have seen nothing." (Ezekiel 13:3)
OBSERVATION: My Life Application Study has this to say about this portion of scripture: "This warning was specifically for false prophets, whose messages were NOT from God but were lies intended to win popularity by saying whatever made the people happy. False prophets did not care about the truth as Ezekiel did. They lulled people into a false sense of security, making Ezekiels's job even more difficult."
APPLICATION: As I was reading over this section, the words that caught my attention were, "following their own spirit".
These false prophet were following
THEIR
OWN
spirit.
Have you ever followed your own spirit?
Are you following your own spirit now?
Here what the Lord says to these guys
"It is NOT I who have spoken" (V.7)
" 'Behold, I am against you,' declare the Lord GOD." (v.8)
I could go on but I think you get the point.
It is not good to lead others by your own spirit!
much less yourself
I encourage you
to get alone with GOD
consistently
Learn to listen
Become familiar with His voice
That way you will be able to discern whose voice it is that you are hearing
PRAYER:Father God, help me to spend so much time with you that I will know beyond a shadow of a doubt whether or not it is you, me, or the enemy speaking!!!
SCRIPTURE: "Thus says the Lord GOD, 'Woe to the foolish prophets who are following their own spirit and have seen nothing." (Ezekiel 13:3)
OBSERVATION: My Life Application Study has this to say about this portion of scripture: "This warning was specifically for false prophets, whose messages were NOT from God but were lies intended to win popularity by saying whatever made the people happy. False prophets did not care about the truth as Ezekiel did. They lulled people into a false sense of security, making Ezekiels's job even more difficult."
APPLICATION: As I was reading over this section, the words that caught my attention were, "following their own spirit".
These false prophet were following
THEIR
OWN
spirit.
Have you ever followed your own spirit?
Are you following your own spirit now?
Here what the Lord says to these guys
"It is NOT I who have spoken" (V.7)
" 'Behold, I am against you,' declare the Lord GOD." (v.8)
I could go on but I think you get the point.
It is not good to lead others by your own spirit!
much less yourself
I encourage you
to get alone with GOD
consistently
Learn to listen
Become familiar with His voice
That way you will be able to discern whose voice it is that you are hearing
PRAYER:Father God, help me to spend so much time with you that I will know beyond a shadow of a doubt whether or not it is you, me, or the enemy speaking!!!
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Heart Transplant
TOPIC: New Heart
SCRIPTURE: "And I will give them one heart, and put a new spirit within them. And I will take the heart of stone out of their flesh and give them a heart of flesh, that they may walk in My statutes and keep My ordinances and do them. Then they will be My people, and I shall be their God." (Ezekiel 11:19-20)
OBSERVATION: "One heart" indicates a singleness of purpose. No longer will God's people seek after other gods; they will be content and satisfied with God alone. The hard, deaf, immovable heart of stone will be transplanted with a tender, receptive and responsive heart of flesh.
APPLICATION: This new life can only be the work of the Holy Spirit.
We must recognize
&
turn from our sin.
When we do.
God will give us:
NEW
motives
guidelines
&
purpose.
Have you received your new heart?
If unsure
ask the person
that knows you best!
PRAYER: Father God, thank you for giving me a new heart. Help me to watch over and guard my heart.
SCRIPTURE: "And I will give them one heart, and put a new spirit within them. And I will take the heart of stone out of their flesh and give them a heart of flesh, that they may walk in My statutes and keep My ordinances and do them. Then they will be My people, and I shall be their God." (Ezekiel 11:19-20)
OBSERVATION: "One heart" indicates a singleness of purpose. No longer will God's people seek after other gods; they will be content and satisfied with God alone. The hard, deaf, immovable heart of stone will be transplanted with a tender, receptive and responsive heart of flesh.
APPLICATION: This new life can only be the work of the Holy Spirit.
We must recognize
&
turn from our sin.
When we do.
God will give us:
NEW
motives
guidelines
&
purpose.
Have you received your new heart?
If unsure
ask the person
that knows you best!
PRAYER: Father God, thank you for giving me a new heart. Help me to watch over and guard my heart.
Friday, August 29, 2008
Been Spanked Lately?
TOPIC: Discipline
SCRIPTURE: "Those whom I love, I reprove, and discipline; therefore be zealous and repent." (Rev. 3:19)
OBSERVATION: God's primary focus in discipline is NOT to punish BUT to bring his children back to intimate fellowship.
APPLICATION: In the same way and for the same reason (hopefully)parents discipline their kids our Heavenly Father disciplines us.
Know this
Our Heavenly Father
Always Disciplines from a heart of LOVE
BUT
know this also
HE DOES DISCIPLINE
Have you been spanked lately by your Heavenly Father?
If yes
Be glad in this respect
It is evidence that you are a child of the KING
Along with being glad about that fact
Don't forget
to
repent
IF you've never been disciplined
by God the Father
for doing wrong
THEN
You might out to do some soul searching
BECAUSE
It's a very good possibility
That you do not have a relationship with Him
PRAYER: Father God, thank you for loving me the way you do. Thank you for the way you discipline. Help me to follow your example when it comes to my children.
SCRIPTURE: "Those whom I love, I reprove, and discipline; therefore be zealous and repent." (Rev. 3:19)
OBSERVATION: God's primary focus in discipline is NOT to punish BUT to bring his children back to intimate fellowship.
APPLICATION: In the same way and for the same reason (hopefully)parents discipline their kids our Heavenly Father disciplines us.
Know this
Our Heavenly Father
Always Disciplines from a heart of LOVE
BUT
know this also
HE DOES DISCIPLINE
Have you been spanked lately by your Heavenly Father?
If yes
Be glad in this respect
It is evidence that you are a child of the KING
Along with being glad about that fact
Don't forget
to
repent
IF you've never been disciplined
by God the Father
for doing wrong
THEN
You might out to do some soul searching
BECAUSE
It's a very good possibility
That you do not have a relationship with Him
PRAYER: Father God, thank you for loving me the way you do. Thank you for the way you discipline. Help me to follow your example when it comes to my children.
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Make It Snappy
TOPIC: REPENTANCE
SCRIPTURE: "...some in the same way hold to the teaching of the Nicolaitans." (Rev. 2:14)
OBSERVATION: The Nicolaitans are defined this way by my Life Application Study Bible, they "were believers who compromised their faith in order to enjoy some of the sinful practices of Ephesian society. The name Nicolaitans is held by some to be roughly the Greek equivalent of the Hebrew word for "Balaamites." Balaam was a prophet who induced the Israelites to carry out their lustful desires (see 2:14 and Numbers 31:16).
APPLICATION: YES It's human nature, at times we all want to take part in activities that we know are wrong.
When confronted
by friends
OR
By The Holy Spirit
We may make excuses to justify our behavior, saying that it isn't as bad as it seems or that it won't hurt our faith.
BUT
Jesus
Has VERY strong words
for those
who look for excuses
to sin."
"I HATE YOUR DEEDS!" (Rev.2:6)
"Therefore repent, or else I am coming to you quickly..." (Rev. 2:16)
PRAYER: Father God, thank you for reminding me through this passage that sin is VERY VERY harmful and that you take it seriously. Help me not to tolerate sin in my life nor in the lives of my brother and sisters in Christ.
SCRIPTURE: "...some in the same way hold to the teaching of the Nicolaitans." (Rev. 2:14)
OBSERVATION: The Nicolaitans are defined this way by my Life Application Study Bible, they "were believers who compromised their faith in order to enjoy some of the sinful practices of Ephesian society. The name Nicolaitans is held by some to be roughly the Greek equivalent of the Hebrew word for "Balaamites." Balaam was a prophet who induced the Israelites to carry out their lustful desires (see 2:14 and Numbers 31:16).
APPLICATION: YES It's human nature, at times we all want to take part in activities that we know are wrong.
When confronted
by friends
OR
By The Holy Spirit
We may make excuses to justify our behavior, saying that it isn't as bad as it seems or that it won't hurt our faith.
BUT
Jesus
Has VERY strong words
for those
who look for excuses
to sin."
"I HATE YOUR DEEDS!" (Rev.2:6)
"Therefore repent, or else I am coming to you quickly..." (Rev. 2:16)
PRAYER: Father God, thank you for reminding me through this passage that sin is VERY VERY harmful and that you take it seriously. Help me not to tolerate sin in my life nor in the lives of my brother and sisters in Christ.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Straight from The BIG Man Himself
TOPIC: Fear NOT
SCRIPTURE: "Do not be afraid, I am the first and the last, and the living One, and I was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys to death and of Hades."
OBSERVATION: Jesus appeared to John and reminded him of who He is!
APPLICATION: If you are facing difficult times, remember the power available to John and the early church is also available to you.
DO NOT FEAR
Jesus
is
ALIVE
&
WELL
PRAYER: Father God, please forgive me for the times that I live like "you're not all that". Thank you for this simple reminder.
SCRIPTURE: "Do not be afraid, I am the first and the last, and the living One, and I was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys to death and of Hades."
OBSERVATION: Jesus appeared to John and reminded him of who He is!
APPLICATION: If you are facing difficult times, remember the power available to John and the early church is also available to you.
DO NOT FEAR
Jesus
is
ALIVE
&
WELL
PRAYER: Father God, please forgive me for the times that I live like "you're not all that". Thank you for this simple reminder.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Yes Indeed I'm Walking
TOPIC: Obedience
SCRIPTURE: "For I was very glad when brethren came and testified to your truth, that is, how you are walking in the truth. I have no greater joy than this, to hear of my children walking in the truth." (3 John 1: 3-4)
OBSERVATION: The "truth" is the truth about Jesus Christ, as opposed to the lies of the false teachers.
APPLICATION: As I was reading through 3 John the phrase "walking in the truth" was repeated. God has tendency to speak through repetition!
SO
R U walking in the truth?
More specifically
Is the life of Jesus Christ
being lived
in
&
through you?
?
You may need to do a Character Study of the Life of Jesus
Here's a sample to get you started
Character Study of Jesus
Scripture - He believed, lived by, searched, learned from
God - He loved, worshiped, served, sought first, tempted not
Preach - Kingdom is here, repent, perish, be born again
Rejoiced
Lusted Not
Swear Not - let your yes be yes and no, no.
Healed the sick
Resisted not his enemies, prayed for them loved them turned the other cheek, was at peace with
Give - He gave to the needy (food, clothing, time)
Prayed for
Cast out demons
Fasted
Kind
Worried Not
Raised the dead
Judged not
watched out for false prophets
cleansed lepers
Was courageous
Denied Self
Took Communion
Protect and taught children
Did not take titles or recognition
Reconciled backsliders
Made disciples
Hope that helps
&
I hope that will spark your own study
So
according to just that sample
Can you say ,"Yes indeed I'm walking in the truth"?
PRAYER: Father God, help me to allow the Holy Spirit to continually live the life of Jesus in and through me. Holy Spirit thank you for convicting me every time I step out of bounds!
SCRIPTURE: "For I was very glad when brethren came and testified to your truth, that is, how you are walking in the truth. I have no greater joy than this, to hear of my children walking in the truth." (3 John 1: 3-4)
OBSERVATION: The "truth" is the truth about Jesus Christ, as opposed to the lies of the false teachers.
APPLICATION: As I was reading through 3 John the phrase "walking in the truth" was repeated. God has tendency to speak through repetition!
SO
R U walking in the truth?
More specifically
Is the life of Jesus Christ
being lived
in
&
through you?
?
You may need to do a Character Study of the Life of Jesus
Here's a sample to get you started
Character Study of Jesus
Scripture - He believed, lived by, searched, learned from
God - He loved, worshiped, served, sought first, tempted not
Preach - Kingdom is here, repent, perish, be born again
Rejoiced
Lusted Not
Swear Not - let your yes be yes and no, no.
Healed the sick
Resisted not his enemies, prayed for them loved them turned the other cheek, was at peace with
Give - He gave to the needy (food, clothing, time)
Prayed for
Cast out demons
Fasted
Kind
Worried Not
Raised the dead
Judged not
watched out for false prophets
cleansed lepers
Was courageous
Denied Self
Took Communion
Protect and taught children
Did not take titles or recognition
Reconciled backsliders
Made disciples
Hope that helps
&
I hope that will spark your own study
So
according to just that sample
Can you say ,"Yes indeed I'm walking in the truth"?
PRAYER: Father God, help me to allow the Holy Spirit to continually live the life of Jesus in and through me. Holy Spirit thank you for convicting me every time I step out of bounds!
Monday, August 25, 2008
A New Season of Day's Off
Hey Guys,
I did it
I completed my other 3 blogs today.
Thank you for your patience!
Well today is not only my day off
but
it is the first day off in 1o years
that Trisha and I
will have the full day to ourselves
We have 3 girls ages 10 6 & 2
And for the first time
All 3 of our girls are in school.
So we are going to go on a lunch date
I am sooo excited!!!
Hope ya'll have a great day
Joey
I did it
I completed my other 3 blogs today.
Thank you for your patience!
Well today is not only my day off
but
it is the first day off in 1o years
that Trisha and I
will have the full day to ourselves
We have 3 girls ages 10 6 & 2
And for the first time
All 3 of our girls are in school.
So we are going to go on a lunch date
I am sooo excited!!!
Hope ya'll have a great day
Joey
Sunday, August 24, 2008
This Is It
TOPIC: Obedience
SCRIPTURE: "...observe His commandments. For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments..." (I John 5:2-3)
OBSERVATION: As I read over these verses my mind went straight to King Solomon's Book Ecclesiastes Chapter 12 verse 13 which reads
"The conclusion,
When ALL has been heard,
IS
Fear God
&
Keep His Commandments
BECAUSE
This applies to every person."
APPLICATION: Just in case you were wondering that word "every" includes you.
Isn't that awesome?!?!?!?!
Sometimes my kids will say (sarcastically)
OBEY O Yeah!
BUT if they only knew
the continued blessing that comes from living
The Obedient Life!
So how's life?
R
U
OBEYING
God's Word?
PRAYER: Father God, thank you once again for this simple reminder that I just need to obey your word, which also means I need to read your word. Help me to do both!
SCRIPTURE: "...observe His commandments. For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments..." (I John 5:2-3)
OBSERVATION: As I read over these verses my mind went straight to King Solomon's Book Ecclesiastes Chapter 12 verse 13 which reads
"The conclusion,
When ALL has been heard,
IS
Fear God
&
Keep His Commandments
BECAUSE
This applies to every person."
APPLICATION: Just in case you were wondering that word "every" includes you.
Isn't that awesome?!?!?!?!
Sometimes my kids will say (sarcastically)
OBEY O Yeah!
BUT if they only knew
the continued blessing that comes from living
The Obedient Life!
So how's life?
R
U
OBEYING
God's Word?
PRAYER: Father God, thank you once again for this simple reminder that I just need to obey your word, which also means I need to read your word. Help me to do both!
Saturday, August 23, 2008
It's A Choice
TOPIC: LOVE
SCRIPTURE: "Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another."
OBSERVATION: Did you catch that two letter word that John included in the verse. "IF", I believe he was trying to drive home a point here don't you?
APPLICATION:I believe that everyone believes that love is important,
BUT
LOVE is usually thought of as a feeling.
REALITY CHECK
LOVE
IS
A
CHOICE
IF you are a Christian
That means
THE HOLY SPIRIT
LIVES IN YOU
&
The Holy Spirit gives us the ability to love
YES
EVEN
THAT
PERSON!
It's TIME
TO Make THE CHOICE
L
O
V
E
Because
LOVE is a Verb
PRAYER: Father God, thank you for this chapter in I John. I know this is what you desire for me. Help me now to make the choice to LOVE others as you do.
SCRIPTURE: "Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another."
OBSERVATION: Did you catch that two letter word that John included in the verse. "IF", I believe he was trying to drive home a point here don't you?
APPLICATION:I believe that everyone believes that love is important,
BUT
LOVE is usually thought of as a feeling.
REALITY CHECK
LOVE
IS
A
CHOICE
IF you are a Christian
That means
THE HOLY SPIRIT
LIVES IN YOU
&
The Holy Spirit gives us the ability to love
YES
EVEN
THAT
PERSON!
It's TIME
TO Make THE CHOICE
L
O
V
E
Because
LOVE is a Verb
PRAYER: Father God, thank you for this chapter in I John. I know this is what you desire for me. Help me now to make the choice to LOVE others as you do.
Friday, August 22, 2008
Demolition
TOPIC: Partners
SCRIPTURE: "The Son of God appeared for this purpose, to destroy the works of the devil." (I John 3:8)
OBSERVATION: Jesus came to destroy the works of the devil!
Did Jesus destroy the works of the devil?
Yes
&
No
APPLICATION: The "no" is where we come into the picture.
SCRIPTURE: "The Son of God appeared for this purpose, to destroy the works of the devil." (I John 3:8)
OBSERVATION: Jesus came to destroy the works of the devil!
Did Jesus destroy the works of the devil?
Yes
&
No
APPLICATION: The "no" is where we come into the picture.
Since the works of the devil continue to this day then that can only mean that we are suppose to be about our Father's Business and partner with Jesus through the power of the Holy Spirit to destroy the works of the devil.
My Life Verse fits with this idea
it's found in Proverbs 21:22 which reads,
"A wise man scales the city of the mighty and brings down the strongholds in which they trust."
So
How do we destroy the works of the devil?
Through ~~~
LOVE
JOEY (Just kidding)
JOY
PEACE
PATIENCE
KINDNESS
GOODNESS
FAITHFULNESS
GENTLENESS
SELF-CONTROL
HUMILITY
FORGIVENESS
TRUTHFULNESS
REPENTANCE
This list could go on and on...
BUT I think that is a good start
So let's get the demolition under way
PRAYER: Father God, you know I love destroying the old and replacing it with something new. Thank you for allowing me to be part of something I love.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Blinded By The Darkness
TOPIC: Anger
SCRIPTURE: "The one who says he is in the Light and yet hates his brother is in the darkness until now. The one who loves his brother abides in the Light and there is no cause for stumbling in him. But the one who hates his brother is in the darkness and walks in the darkness, and does not know where he is going because the darkness has blinded his eyes." (I John 2:9-11)
OBSERVATION: Evidently to have hate in your heart toward another person is very detrimental !!!
APPLICATION: As I think through these 3 verses the only thing that comes to my mind is this verse from Ephesians chapter 4
"Be angry and yet Do NOT sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and do no give the devil an opportunity." (vv.26-27)
SO PLEASE ! ! !
Deal with your hate
DO NOT
Give the devil
the freedom
to have his way
with you!
Being BLIND is NO FUN
You don't have to
suffer through the darkness.
Join us in the Light
It's Amazing
You can see so much better
PRAYER: Father, help me to live full of love and forgiveness so that when others do wrong I will be able to extend the gift of forgiveness to them.
SCRIPTURE: "The one who says he is in the Light and yet hates his brother is in the darkness until now. The one who loves his brother abides in the Light and there is no cause for stumbling in him. But the one who hates his brother is in the darkness and walks in the darkness, and does not know where he is going because the darkness has blinded his eyes." (I John 2:9-11)
OBSERVATION: Evidently to have hate in your heart toward another person is very detrimental !!!
APPLICATION: As I think through these 3 verses the only thing that comes to my mind is this verse from Ephesians chapter 4
"Be angry and yet Do NOT sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and do no give the devil an opportunity." (vv.26-27)
SO PLEASE ! ! !
Deal with your hate
DO NOT
Give the devil
the freedom
to have his way
with you!
Being BLIND is NO FUN
You don't have to
suffer through the darkness.
Join us in the Light
It's Amazing
You can see so much better
PRAYER: Father, help me to live full of love and forgiveness so that when others do wrong I will be able to extend the gift of forgiveness to them.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
It's Simple
TOPIC: Confession
SCRIPTURE: "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." (I John 1:9)
OBSERVATION: Notice the word "If"
What does "If" mean?
It means in order to be forgiven and cleansed we must first confess or agree with God that our sin truly is sin and that we are turning from it.
True Confession = involves a commitment not to continue doing the wrong things
APPLICATION: As I read over this verse, for some strange reason, the first thing that came to my mind were the words from Martin Luther King Jr.'s famous speech "Free at Last"
"Free at last
Free at last
Thank God Almighty
I am free at last"
You know
Being a SLAVE to sin
is
no
fun
If you want to be free
It's Simple
Confess your sins to your Heavenly Father
It truly is that simple
So stop right now and start Confessing
PRAYER: Father God, thank you thank you thank you for forgiving and cleansing me THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!
SCRIPTURE: "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." (I John 1:9)
OBSERVATION: Notice the word "If"
What does "If" mean?
It means in order to be forgiven and cleansed we must first confess or agree with God that our sin truly is sin and that we are turning from it.
True Confession = involves a commitment not to continue doing the wrong things
APPLICATION: As I read over this verse, for some strange reason, the first thing that came to my mind were the words from Martin Luther King Jr.'s famous speech "Free at Last"
"Free at last
Free at last
Thank God Almighty
I am free at last"
You know
Being a SLAVE to sin
is
no
fun
If you want to be free
It's Simple
Confess your sins to your Heavenly Father
It truly is that simple
So stop right now and start Confessing
PRAYER: Father God, thank you thank you thank you for forgiving and cleansing me THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Get Your Nose Out of My Business
TOPIC: Interfering
SCRIPTURE: "Peter...said to Jesus, 'But Lord, what about this man?' Jesus said to him, '...what is that to you? You follow Me' " (John 21:21-22)
OBSERVATION: Here we see Peter asking Jesus a question. It is a question about John, more specifically about how he is going to die. Jesus replied to Peter by saying, that's none of your business! We seem to have a natural (albeit wrong) tendency to compare our lives to other. But Jesus responds to us as he did to Peter: "What is that to you? You follow me."
APPLICATION: As I read through this chapter in John my mind went straight to a devotional I read several years ago from Oswald Chambers' book "My Utmost For His Highest" (Nov.15). I feel like I am suppose to share with you, it is entitled "What Is That To You?"
It reads:
"One of the hardest lessons to learn comes from our stubborn refusal to refrain from interfering in other people's lives. It takes a long time to realize the danger of being an amateur providence, that is, interfering with God's plan for others. You see someone suffering and say, "He will not suffer, and I will make sure that he doesn't."
You put your hand right in front of God's permissive will to stop it, and then God says, "What Is That To You?"
Is there stagnation in your spiritual life?
Don't allow it to continue, BUT get in God's presence and find out the reason for it.
You will possibly find it is because you have been interfering in the life of another -- proposing things you had no right to propose, or advising when you had no right to advise. When you do have to give advice to another person, GOD will advise through you with the direct understanding of HIS Spirit. Your part is to maintain the right relationship with GOD so that HIS discernment can come through you continually for the purpose of blessing someone else.
Most of us live only within the level of consciousness -- consciously serving and consciously devoted to GOD. This shows immaturity and the fact that we're NOT yet in the life of a child of GOD on the unconscious level, until we become so totally surrendered to GOD that we are NOT even aware of being used by HIM. When we are consciously aware of being used as broken bread and poured-out wine, we have yet another level to reach -- a level where all awareness of ourselves and of what GOD is doing through us is completely eliminated. A saint is never consciously a saint - a saint is consciously dependent on GOD. "
PRAYER: Father God, thank you for reminding me that I need to lead a life that is completely Holy Spirit led.
SCRIPTURE: "Peter...said to Jesus, 'But Lord, what about this man?' Jesus said to him, '...what is that to you? You follow Me' " (John 21:21-22)
OBSERVATION: Here we see Peter asking Jesus a question. It is a question about John, more specifically about how he is going to die. Jesus replied to Peter by saying, that's none of your business! We seem to have a natural (albeit wrong) tendency to compare our lives to other. But Jesus responds to us as he did to Peter: "What is that to you? You follow me."
APPLICATION: As I read through this chapter in John my mind went straight to a devotional I read several years ago from Oswald Chambers' book "My Utmost For His Highest" (Nov.15). I feel like I am suppose to share with you, it is entitled "What Is That To You?"
It reads:
"One of the hardest lessons to learn comes from our stubborn refusal to refrain from interfering in other people's lives. It takes a long time to realize the danger of being an amateur providence, that is, interfering with God's plan for others. You see someone suffering and say, "He will not suffer, and I will make sure that he doesn't."
You put your hand right in front of God's permissive will to stop it, and then God says, "What Is That To You?"
Is there stagnation in your spiritual life?
Don't allow it to continue, BUT get in God's presence and find out the reason for it.
You will possibly find it is because you have been interfering in the life of another -- proposing things you had no right to propose, or advising when you had no right to advise. When you do have to give advice to another person, GOD will advise through you with the direct understanding of HIS Spirit. Your part is to maintain the right relationship with GOD so that HIS discernment can come through you continually for the purpose of blessing someone else.
Most of us live only within the level of consciousness -- consciously serving and consciously devoted to GOD. This shows immaturity and the fact that we're NOT yet in the life of a child of GOD on the unconscious level, until we become so totally surrendered to GOD that we are NOT even aware of being used by HIM. When we are consciously aware of being used as broken bread and poured-out wine, we have yet another level to reach -- a level where all awareness of ourselves and of what GOD is doing through us is completely eliminated. A saint is never consciously a saint - a saint is consciously dependent on GOD. "
PRAYER: Father God, thank you for reminding me that I need to lead a life that is completely Holy Spirit led.
Monday, August 11, 2008
VACATION WEEK !!!!!!!
Hello to all
Sorry
BUT
I did not get around to completing those other 2 blogs.
Because so much time has past I am going to just delete those entries.
Joey
If you are a faithful reader of this blog
then you know
that on Monday's
because it is my day off
I do not blog
Today is no exception
***This week is my vacation week
Therefore I will NOT be blogging at all
I hope you have a great week
See you next Tuesday (Aug. 19, 08)
Joey
Sorry
BUT
I did not get around to completing those other 2 blogs.
Because so much time has past I am going to just delete those entries.
Joey
If you are a faithful reader of this blog
then you know
that on Monday's
because it is my day off
I do not blog
Today is no exception
***This week is my vacation week
Therefore I will NOT be blogging at all
I hope you have a great week
See you next Tuesday (Aug. 19, 08)
Joey
Friday, August 8, 2008
Do you hear what I hear?
TOPIC: Hearing God's Voice
SCRIPTURE: "My sheep hear My voice, and I know them and they follow Me..." (John 10:27)
OBSERVATION: This verse says God's children HEAR His voice and they know Him. It doesn't say they might hear His voice. It says they HEAR His voice.
APPLICATION: Parents speak to their children and children hear their parents voices. Children even at a very young age are able to distinguish between their parents voices and others.
God is like a parent
He is our Father
He speaks to His children
Father is talking
Did you hear Him?
Have you ever heard Him?
If NOT
You might not have a relationship with Him
If unsure
Ask Him
& then
Listen
For His response
PRAYER: Father God, thank you that I can hear your voice. Thank you that you speak and not only that but that you speak directly to me. Thank you!!!
SCRIPTURE: "My sheep hear My voice, and I know them and they follow Me..." (John 10:27)
OBSERVATION: This verse says God's children HEAR His voice and they know Him. It doesn't say they might hear His voice. It says they HEAR His voice.
APPLICATION: Parents speak to their children and children hear their parents voices. Children even at a very young age are able to distinguish between their parents voices and others.
God is like a parent
He is our Father
He speaks to His children
Father is talking
Did you hear Him?
Have you ever heard Him?
If NOT
You might not have a relationship with Him
If unsure
Ask Him
& then
Listen
For His response
Do you hear what I hear?
PRAYER: Father God, thank you that I can hear your voice. Thank you that you speak and not only that but that you speak directly to me. Thank you!!!
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