Merry Christmas
Be Safe
&
Thoroughly
Enjoy Time with
Family, Friends,
&
Jesus
Peace
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Saturday, December 5, 2009
It's A Good Thing !
Sickness can be such a good thing
At least for me
Sickness
Reminds me
NOT
to take my health
4 granted
BUT
TO THANK GOD EVERY DAY FOR
THE HEALTH THAT I AM EXPERIENCING
It also reminds me
How weak
I truly am
How dependent
I am
&
How fragile
life really is
So
remember
bad things
are not always
bad things
They can be good
SO
What's going on in your life?
That at first glance appears to be bad
Remember
It's a Good Thing
or
At the very least
It can be
It all depends on your perspective
So, what's your perspective?
At least for me
Sickness
Reminds me
NOT
to take my health
4 granted
BUT
TO THANK GOD EVERY DAY FOR
THE HEALTH THAT I AM EXPERIENCING
It also reminds me
How weak
I truly am
How dependent
I am
&
How fragile
life really is
So
remember
bad things
are not always
bad things
They can be good
SO
What's going on in your life?
That at first glance appears to be bad
Remember
It's a Good Thing
or
At the very least
It can be
It all depends on your perspective
So, what's your perspective?
Thursday, November 19, 2009
What would HE say?
Reading from Nov. 20, 2009
Matthew 5-7
Matthew 7:21 - 23 stood out to me
It reads,
21"Not everyone who says to Me,
'Lord, Lord.'
will enter the kingdom of heaven,
but
he who does the will of My Father who is in heaven
will enter.
22 Many
will say to Me on that day,
'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name cast out demons, and in Your name perform many miracles?"
23 And then
I will declare to them,
'I never knew you;
DEPART FROM ME, YOU WHO PRACTICE LAWLESSNESS.'
Here is what caught my attention:
The word 'many'
The reason the word 'many' stood out so much
is because
the word 'many'
in this particular context
has a lot to say (from my perspective)
to anyone
that names the name of Christ
&
that thinks they are a Christ follower
The word Many = means
a considerable number of people
a large number of people
the majority
In this context
Jesus says,
to the majority of the people that stand before Him at the Final Judgment
more specifically
Jesus says,
to the majority of the people that had thought all along their life
that they were Christ followers
Jesus says to them
Remember
to the MAJORITY of them
Jesus says to them
DEPART FROM ME
Meaning
that the majority of the people
that thought they were getting ready
to enter into Heaven for all eternity
Were just told they would NOT be going
WHY would Jesus say that?
Jesus says, DEPART FROM ME
because
I NEVER KNEW YOU!!!
REMEMBER
These are people
that not only thought
they knew Jesus and
were one of His followers
BUT
they gave responses ~ that actually line up with a believers life and ministry
Reread with me their responses
Matthew 7:22 reads
#1.) They called Jesus Lord
#2.) They prophesied in Jesus name
#3.) They cast out demons
&
#4.) They performed many miracles
I don't know about you
BUT
Their responses sound like
the life and ministry of Jesus' first disciples
that we read about in the New Testament
Namely ~ Peter James John not to mention Paul
I could go on . . .
So
it appears from this passage
that we
who call ourselves Christ Followers
can NO LONGER
just hold to
our thoughts
surrounding our relationship with Christ
Typically we are asked
Do you know Jesus?
Do you have a personal relationship with Him?
It appears from this passage
that we must
start taking into consideration
not just our perspective
on our relationship with Jesus
but
from this day forward
I would strongly encourage you
to start taking into consideration
Jesus' perspective
on His relationship with you
Does Jesus consider His relationship with you
to be an intimate relationship?
Would Jesus say
That He has an intimate relationship with You
or
Would HE say
I'm sorry
But, I don't know You
What would HE say?
???????????????????
Matthew 5-7
Matthew 7:21 - 23 stood out to me
It reads,
21"Not everyone who says to Me,
'Lord, Lord.'
will enter the kingdom of heaven,
but
he who does the will of My Father who is in heaven
will enter.
22 Many
will say to Me on that day,
'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name cast out demons, and in Your name perform many miracles?"
23 And then
I will declare to them,
'I never knew you;
DEPART FROM ME, YOU WHO PRACTICE LAWLESSNESS.'
Here is what caught my attention:
The word 'many'
The reason the word 'many' stood out so much
is because
the word 'many'
in this particular context
has a lot to say (from my perspective)
to anyone
that names the name of Christ
&
that thinks they are a Christ follower
The word Many = means
a considerable number of people
a large number of people
the majority
In this context
Jesus says,
to the majority of the people that stand before Him at the Final Judgment
more specifically
Jesus says,
to the majority of the people that had thought all along their life
that they were Christ followers
Jesus says to them
Remember
to the MAJORITY of them
Jesus says to them
DEPART FROM ME
Meaning
that the majority of the people
that thought they were getting ready
to enter into Heaven for all eternity
Were just told they would NOT be going
WHY would Jesus say that?
Jesus says, DEPART FROM ME
because
I NEVER KNEW YOU!!!
REMEMBER
These are people
that not only thought
they knew Jesus and
were one of His followers
BUT
they gave responses ~ that actually line up with a believers life and ministry
Reread with me their responses
Matthew 7:22 reads
#1.) They called Jesus Lord
#2.) They prophesied in Jesus name
#3.) They cast out demons
&
#4.) They performed many miracles
I don't know about you
BUT
Their responses sound like
the life and ministry of Jesus' first disciples
that we read about in the New Testament
Namely ~ Peter James John not to mention Paul
I could go on . . .
So
it appears from this passage
that we
who call ourselves Christ Followers
can NO LONGER
just hold to
our thoughts
surrounding our relationship with Christ
Typically we are asked
Do you know Jesus?
Do you have a personal relationship with Him?
It appears from this passage
that we must
start taking into consideration
not just our perspective
on our relationship with Jesus
but
from this day forward
I would strongly encourage you
to start taking into consideration
Jesus' perspective
on His relationship with you
Does Jesus consider His relationship with you
to be an intimate relationship?
Would Jesus say
That He has an intimate relationship with You
or
Would HE say
I'm sorry
But, I don't know You
What would HE say?
???????????????????
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Just a few thoughts
Reading from Nov. 18, 2009
Ps. 124; 2 Cor. 11-13
2 Cor. 12:15a reads ~ "I will most gladly spend and be expended for your souls..."
This reminds me of Paul's extreme love for his countrymen. In an earlier statement Paul shares how if it were possible he wished that he could be accursed so that his brethren that do not know the Lord Jesus could know him.
Now that is what I call LOVE
R U willing to spend and be spent to that extent ? ? ?
For the unchurched ? ? ?
Don't forget we are talking ETERNITY here ! ! !
2 Cor. 13:3 reads ~ "since you are speaking for proof of the Christ who speaks in me, . . . "
Just another reminder that God is vocal and desires to speak to you/me directly.
2 Cor. 13:5 reads ~ "Test yourselves to see if you are in the faith; examine yourselves! Or do you not recognize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you -- unless indeed you fail the test?"
Every time I read this verse I think about the people that know me BEST, and I think about this question:
What would they say about me in relationship to this test?
Would they say ~ Yes Indeed Joey White Passes the Test?
Would they say ~ Yes Jesus Christ is Living In and Through Joey White?
What about you?
Ps. 124; 2 Cor. 11-13
2 Cor. 12:15a reads ~ "I will most gladly spend and be expended for your souls..."
This reminds me of Paul's extreme love for his countrymen. In an earlier statement Paul shares how if it were possible he wished that he could be accursed so that his brethren that do not know the Lord Jesus could know him.
Now that is what I call LOVE
R U willing to spend and be spent to that extent ? ? ?
For the unchurched ? ? ?
Don't forget we are talking ETERNITY here ! ! !
2 Cor. 13:3 reads ~ "since you are speaking for proof of the Christ who speaks in me, . . . "
Just another reminder that God is vocal and desires to speak to you/me directly.
2 Cor. 13:5 reads ~ "Test yourselves to see if you are in the faith; examine yourselves! Or do you not recognize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you -- unless indeed you fail the test?"
Every time I read this verse I think about the people that know me BEST, and I think about this question:
What would they say about me in relationship to this test?
Would they say ~ Yes Indeed Joey White Passes the Test?
Would they say ~ Yes Jesus Christ is Living In and Through Joey White?
What about you?
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Passing On ? ?
Reading from Nov. 11, 2009
Psalm 122; 1 Corinthians 9-11
As I was reading through Psalm 122 and I Cor. 9-11
A phrase out of I Cor. 11:2 caught my eyeI Cor. 11:2 reads "I praise you for remembering me in everything and for holding to the teachings, just as I passed them on to you.
The phrase that caused me to stop and think was
"... just as I passed them on to you."
In light of this verse and more specifically this phrase
several questions popped in my mind
I hope you will take time to think through these questions
QUESTION #1:
Who are you passing the Christ-like life onto?
My first thought goes to my 4 girls
that I have the privilege to share life with
each and every day
QUESTION #2:
What is it exactly that you are passing on?
I don't know about you
BUT I soooooo desire
to be more and more like Jesus each and everyday
for their sake
Taking into account that we are not perfect
and will not be on this side of Eternity
Consider also these questions:
R U sure that you are passing on an accurate picture of Jesus
or
Is it DISTORTED?
What are you doing
to ensure
that it is the most accurate
picture of Jesus that it can be?
Remember
Especially in the case of people that are younger (In age or the faith)
Those individuals that look up to you
Are very impressionable
I'm sure you already know all of this
BUT
A necessary reminder is . . .
These people catch more of who you are
by the way you
actually
live out
your life
day by day
so much more than
What you say and teach
So
R U passing on Jesus
to anybody?
If so
R U passing on JESUS
??
Monday, November 9, 2009
U Love . . . U Grow Up . . .
Reading from Nov. 10, 2009
Job 35-36; I Cor. 7-8
As I was reading today I Cor. 8 stuck out
My Life Application Study Bible added this commentary
Stronger Believer . . . Don't be proud of your maturity; don't flaunt your freedom. Act in love so you do not cause a weaker believer to stumble.
Weaker Believer . . . Although you may not feel the same freedom in some areas as in others, take your time, pray to God, but do not force others to adhere to your stipulations. You would hinder other believers by making up rules and standards for how everyone ought to behave. Make sure your convictions are based on God's Word and are not simply an expression of your opinions.
Pastors and Leaders . . . Teach correctly from God's Word, helping Christians to understand what is right and wrong in God's eyes and to see that they can have varied opinions on other issues and still be unified. Don't allow potential problems to get out of hand, causing splits and divisions.
Paul advises those who are more mature in the faith about how they must care about their brothers and sisters in Christ who have more tender consciences; those "weaker' brothers and sisters are advised concerning their growth; and pastors and leaders are instructed on how to deal with the conflicts that easily could arise between these groups.
Stronger Believer . . . U Love . . .
Weaker Believers . . . U Grow Up . . .
Pastor and Leaders . . . U, well u know what to do . . . right?
Basically
we
need
2
ALL
L
O
V
E
as
we
R
Growing
N
Christ
Enjoy Your Day
Job 35-36; I Cor. 7-8
As I was reading today I Cor. 8 stuck out
My Life Application Study Bible added this commentary
Stronger Believer . . . Don't be proud of your maturity; don't flaunt your freedom. Act in love so you do not cause a weaker believer to stumble.
Weaker Believer . . . Although you may not feel the same freedom in some areas as in others, take your time, pray to God, but do not force others to adhere to your stipulations. You would hinder other believers by making up rules and standards for how everyone ought to behave. Make sure your convictions are based on God's Word and are not simply an expression of your opinions.
Pastors and Leaders . . . Teach correctly from God's Word, helping Christians to understand what is right and wrong in God's eyes and to see that they can have varied opinions on other issues and still be unified. Don't allow potential problems to get out of hand, causing splits and divisions.
Paul advises those who are more mature in the faith about how they must care about their brothers and sisters in Christ who have more tender consciences; those "weaker' brothers and sisters are advised concerning their growth; and pastors and leaders are instructed on how to deal with the conflicts that easily could arise between these groups.
Stronger Believer . . . U Love . . .
Weaker Believers . . . U Grow Up . . .
Pastor and Leaders . . . U, well u know what to do . . . right?
Basically
we
need
2
ALL
L
O
V
E
as
we
R
Growing
N
Christ
Enjoy Your Day
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
What's My Next Step?
Reading from Nov. 4, 2009
Job 26-27; Mark 15-16
As I was reading through Mark 15
The very first verse caught my attention
More Specifically the phrase
The religious leaders - met to discuss their next step
I realize that this passage has a certain context
However
The thing that grabbed me was their intentionality
"They met to discuss their next step"
When it comes to you
&
your next step
Your Health - Physically; Mentally; Spiritually
Your Relationships - Spouse; Kids; Parents; Siblings
Your Finances
Your Dreams
Your __________
Have you met with The Lord
and asked Him
for His next step
for you in any of these areas?
If not, why not?
If so, what did He say?
If so, are you
following through
on what He said?
If not, what is holding you back?
Your Heavenly Father
Knows you
&
He Knows what your next step should be
Why not ask Him?
It's as simple as this
Father, what's my next step?
Wasn't that easy?
So, what did He say?
Look forward to hearing what Dad had to say to you
Job 26-27; Mark 15-16
As I was reading through Mark 15
The very first verse caught my attention
More Specifically the phrase
The religious leaders - met to discuss their next step
I realize that this passage has a certain context
However
The thing that grabbed me was their intentionality
"They met to discuss their next step"
When it comes to you
&
your next step
Your Health - Physically; Mentally; Spiritually
Your Relationships - Spouse; Kids; Parents; Siblings
Your Finances
Your Dreams
Your __________
Have you met with The Lord
and asked Him
for His next step
for you in any of these areas?
If not, why not?
If so, what did He say?
If so, are you
following through
on what He said?
If not, what is holding you back?
Your Heavenly Father
Knows you
&
He Knows what your next step should be
Why not ask Him?
It's as simple as this
Father, what's my next step?
Wasn't that easy?
So, what did He say?
Look forward to hearing what Dad had to say to you
Monday, November 2, 2009
Only When
Reading from Nov. 3, 2009
Job 25; Mark 13-14
As I was reading through Mark 13
Verse 11 jumped out at me
Reading from the New Living Translation
Verse 11 reads like this
"...don't worry about what to say, . . Just say what God tells you to."
I realize that this verse is found within a certain context
&
I know that Jesus was not implying that we should not study
However
In light of Pastor Jim's new sermon series
I couldn't help but think about
ACTUALLY
LIVING
THIS OUT
DAILY
To only speak the words that are given to you from God
Among other things:
This reminds me of the saying
That God gave us 2 ears and 1 mouth
To listen twice as much as we speak
I don't know about you
but
Being a talker
I would be hard pressed
and would have to make a choice
to exercise extreme self-control
in order to pull this off
To speak only when spoken to by God
Think about that
I mean really think about it
To speak
ONLY
When spoken to by God
(Please remember I am not saying
that starting today you need to
ignore people that engage in conversation with you.)
All I'm challenging you to do is
To just try it out
When someone ask you a question
Before you just blurt out an answer
Why not intentionally listen
to see if God might have anything to say
something through you
Let me know how it goes
Job 25; Mark 13-14
As I was reading through Mark 13
Verse 11 jumped out at me
Reading from the New Living Translation
Verse 11 reads like this
"...don't worry about what to say, . . Just say what God tells you to."
I realize that this verse is found within a certain context
&
I know that Jesus was not implying that we should not study
However
In light of Pastor Jim's new sermon series
I couldn't help but think about
ACTUALLY
LIVING
THIS OUT
DAILY
To only speak the words that are given to you from God
Among other things:
This reminds me of the saying
That God gave us 2 ears and 1 mouth
To listen twice as much as we speak
I don't know about you
but
Being a talker
I would be hard pressed
and would have to make a choice
to exercise extreme self-control
in order to pull this off
To speak only when spoken to by God
Think about that
I mean really think about it
To speak
ONLY
When spoken to by God
(Please remember I am not saying
that starting today you need to
ignore people that engage in conversation with you.)
All I'm challenging you to do is
To just try it out
When someone ask you a question
Before you just blurt out an answer
Why not intentionally listen
to see if God might have anything to say
something through you
Let me know how it goes
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
O What A Day That Will Be
Reading from Sept. 16, 2009
Ezekiel 40-41; Ps. 128; Rev. 21
TOPIC: Heaven
SCRIPTURE: "Then I heard a mighty voice from the throne and I perceived its distinct words, saying, See! The abode of God is with men, and he will live (encamp, tent) among them; and they shall be His people, and God shall personally be with them and be their God. " (Rev. 21:3)
OBSERVATION: Heaven is described as the place where God will REMOVE ALL . . . sorrows. Forevermore there will be NO
DEATH,
SORROW,
CRYING,
OR
PAIN.
APPLICATION: Have you ever wondered what heaven will be like?
I sure have
No matter what you are going through,
right now
it is NOT the last word
God has written the final chapter,
&
it is about true fulfillment
& eternal joy
for those who love Him.
We do not know as much as we would like,
but it is enough to know that eternity with God
will be more wonderful than we could ever imagine.
What a wonderful truth!
O What A Day That Will Be
I sure hope you are going to be there with me
If you have any doubts
Whatsoever
Please lets talk
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I am so looking forward to being in heaven one day. Thank you for going to prepare a place for me. That is SOOOOOOO AWESOME ! ! ! ! ! !
Ezekiel 40-41; Ps. 128; Rev. 21
TOPIC: Heaven
SCRIPTURE: "Then I heard a mighty voice from the throne and I perceived its distinct words, saying, See! The abode of God is with men, and he will live (encamp, tent) among them; and they shall be His people, and God shall personally be with them and be their God. " (Rev. 21:3)
OBSERVATION: Heaven is described as the place where God will REMOVE ALL . . . sorrows. Forevermore there will be NO
DEATH,
SORROW,
CRYING,
OR
PAIN.
APPLICATION: Have you ever wondered what heaven will be like?
I sure have
No matter what you are going through,
right now
it is NOT the last word
God has written the final chapter,
&
it is about true fulfillment
& eternal joy
for those who love Him.
We do not know as much as we would like,
but it is enough to know that eternity with God
will be more wonderful than we could ever imagine.
What a wonderful truth!
O What A Day That Will Be
I sure hope you are going to be there with me
If you have any doubts
Whatsoever
Please lets talk
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I am so looking forward to being in heaven one day. Thank you for going to prepare a place for me. That is SOOOOOOO AWESOME ! ! ! ! ! !
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Reading from Sept. 15, 2009
Ezek.38,39; Ps. 145; Rev.20
TOPIC:
SCRIPTURE: "The LORD helps the fallen and lifts up those bent beneath their loads." (Ps. 145:14)
OBSERVATION: Here's what my Life Application Study Bible had to say about this verse in the light of the overall passage.
Sometimes our burdens seem more than we can bear, and we wonder how we can go on. David stands at this bleak intersection of life's road and meditates on the Lord, the great burden bearer God is able to lift us up because
(1) HIS greatness is beyond discovery;
(2) HE does mighty acts for each generation;
(3) HE is full of glorious splendor and majesty;
(4) HE does awe-inspiring deeds;
(5) HE is righteous;
(6) HE is kind, merciful, patient, loving, and compassionate;
(7) HE rules over an everlasting kingdom;
(8) HE is our source of all our daily needs;
(9) HE is righteous and kind in all his dealings;
(10) HE remains close to those who call on him;
(11) HE hears our cries and rescues us.
APPLICATION: If you are bending under a burden
& feel that you are about to fall,
turn to God for help.
STOP WHATEVER U R DOING
STOP RIGHT NOW
BECAUSE
He is ready to lift you up
& bear your burden ! ! !
Did u stop?
Yes or No?
I sure hope you did!
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank you for being here! THANK YOU SO MUCH! ! !
Ezek.38,39; Ps. 145; Rev.20
TOPIC:
SCRIPTURE: "The LORD helps the fallen and lifts up those bent beneath their loads." (Ps. 145:14)
OBSERVATION: Here's what my Life Application Study Bible had to say about this verse in the light of the overall passage.
Sometimes our burdens seem more than we can bear, and we wonder how we can go on. David stands at this bleak intersection of life's road and meditates on the Lord, the great burden bearer God is able to lift us up because
(1) HIS greatness is beyond discovery;
(2) HE does mighty acts for each generation;
(3) HE is full of glorious splendor and majesty;
(4) HE does awe-inspiring deeds;
(5) HE is righteous;
(6) HE is kind, merciful, patient, loving, and compassionate;
(7) HE rules over an everlasting kingdom;
(8) HE is our source of all our daily needs;
(9) HE is righteous and kind in all his dealings;
(10) HE remains close to those who call on him;
(11) HE hears our cries and rescues us.
APPLICATION: If you are bending under a burden
& feel that you are about to fall,
turn to God for help.
STOP WHATEVER U R DOING
STOP RIGHT NOW
BECAUSE
He is ready to lift you up
& bear your burden ! ! !
Did u stop?
Yes or No?
I sure hope you did!
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank you for being here! THANK YOU SO MUCH! ! !
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Despairing? DON''T ! ! !
Reading from Sept. 10, 2009
Lamentations 3-5; Revelation 15
TOPIC: Hope
SCRIPTURE: “This I recall to my mind, Therefore I have hope. The LORD’S lovingkindnesses indeed never cease, For His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness. The LORD is my portion, says my soul, Therefore I have hope in Him.” The LORD is good to those who wait for Him, To the person who seeks Him.” (Lamentations 3:21-25)
OBSERVATION: My Life Application Study Bible says, that Jeremiah saw one ray of hope in all the sin and sorrow surrounding him: The unfailing love of the LORD never ends…Great is His faithfulness; His mercies begin afresh each day. God willingly responds with help when we ask. Perhaps there is some sin in your life that you thought God would not forgive. God’s steadfast love and mercy are greater than any sin, and he promises forgiveness.
Jeremiah knew from personal experience about God’s faithfulness. God had promised that punishment would follow disobedience, and it did. But God also had promised future restoration and blessing, and Jeremiah knew that God would keep that promise also. Trusting in God’s faithfulness day by day makes us confident in his great promises for the future.
APPLICATION: As I was reading through Lamentations, I couldn't help but notice the choice that was made. Verse 21 says, "THIS I recall to my mind.
Don't forget that this choice is made while
under great affliction,
wandering,
the wormwood,
bitterness
& a downcast soul
In spite of all that
We (Yes that includes U)
Can
Right Now
Even in the midst of that
Yes even that thing
That U Think is Impossible To Overcome
U
CAN
Make a choice
NOW
To Put Your Hope N The Lord
Why so downcast o my soul?
PUT YOUR HOPE IN GOD
TODAY
RIGHT NOW
GO Ahead
&
Recall to your mind
HIS LOVINGKINDNESS
HIS COMPASSION
HIS FAITHFULNESS
Don't you feel better already
I know I do
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank you that you are there in the good times, the not so good times, and the down right bad times. Thank you soooooo much! That I can HOPE in you and it not be in vain.
Lamentations 3-5; Revelation 15
TOPIC: Hope
SCRIPTURE: “This I recall to my mind, Therefore I have hope. The LORD’S lovingkindnesses indeed never cease, For His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness. The LORD is my portion, says my soul, Therefore I have hope in Him.” The LORD is good to those who wait for Him, To the person who seeks Him.” (Lamentations 3:21-25)
OBSERVATION: My Life Application Study Bible says, that Jeremiah saw one ray of hope in all the sin and sorrow surrounding him: The unfailing love of the LORD never ends…Great is His faithfulness; His mercies begin afresh each day. God willingly responds with help when we ask. Perhaps there is some sin in your life that you thought God would not forgive. God’s steadfast love and mercy are greater than any sin, and he promises forgiveness.
Jeremiah knew from personal experience about God’s faithfulness. God had promised that punishment would follow disobedience, and it did. But God also had promised future restoration and blessing, and Jeremiah knew that God would keep that promise also. Trusting in God’s faithfulness day by day makes us confident in his great promises for the future.
APPLICATION: As I was reading through Lamentations, I couldn't help but notice the choice that was made. Verse 21 says, "THIS I recall to my mind.
Don't forget that this choice is made while
under great affliction,
wandering,
the wormwood,
bitterness
& a downcast soul
In spite of all that
We (Yes that includes U)
Can
Right Now
Even in the midst of that
Yes even that thing
That U Think is Impossible To Overcome
U
CAN
Make a choice
NOW
To Put Your Hope N The Lord
Why so downcast o my soul?
PUT YOUR HOPE IN GOD
TODAY
RIGHT NOW
GO Ahead
&
Recall to your mind
HIS LOVINGKINDNESS
HIS COMPASSION
HIS FAITHFULNESS
Don't you feel better already
I know I do
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank you that you are there in the good times, the not so good times, and the down right bad times. Thank you soooooo much! That I can HOPE in you and it not be in vain.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Business is Booming! How about you?
Reading from July 27
Is 50-52; Ps. 92; 2 Peter 1
TOPIC: Flourishing
SCRIPTURE:"The godly will flourish like palm trees and grow strong like the cedars of Lebanon. For they are transplanted into the Lord’s own house. They flourish in the courts of our God. Even in old age they will still produce fruit; they will remain vital and green. "(Ps. 92:12-14)
OBSERVATION: Palm trees are known for their long life. To flourish like palm trees means to stand tall and to live long. The cedars of Lebanon grew to 120 feet in height and up to 30 feet in circumference, thus, they were sold, strong, and immovable. The psalmist saw believers as upright, strong, and unmovable by the winds of circumstances. Those who place their faith firmly in God can have their strength and vitality all the days of their life.
APPLICATION: As it happens so many times when I read God's word, I noticed a word that kept on being repeated. That word was the word flourish
To Thrive
To Grow
To increase
To prosper
To do well
To Boom
So
R U
Spiritually, Mentally & Physically - (In a healthy manner)
Thriving ?
Growing?
Increasing?
Prospering?
Doing well?
Booming?
I hope you will take time to think through each question in each area
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank you for you words of live. You never cease to absolutely amaze me. Each and every time I open your word and read it you speak directly to me Thank YOU!! I love you!!!
Is 50-52; Ps. 92; 2 Peter 1
TOPIC: Flourishing
SCRIPTURE:"The godly will flourish like palm trees and grow strong like the cedars of Lebanon. For they are transplanted into the Lord’s own house. They flourish in the courts of our God. Even in old age they will still produce fruit; they will remain vital and green. "(Ps. 92:12-14)
OBSERVATION: Palm trees are known for their long life. To flourish like palm trees means to stand tall and to live long. The cedars of Lebanon grew to 120 feet in height and up to 30 feet in circumference, thus, they were sold, strong, and immovable. The psalmist saw believers as upright, strong, and unmovable by the winds of circumstances. Those who place their faith firmly in God can have their strength and vitality all the days of their life.
APPLICATION: As it happens so many times when I read God's word, I noticed a word that kept on being repeated. That word was the word flourish
To Thrive
To Grow
To increase
To prosper
To do well
To Boom
So
R U
Spiritually, Mentally & Physically - (In a healthy manner)
Thriving ?
Growing?
Increasing?
Prospering?
Doing well?
Booming?
I hope you will take time to think through each question in each area
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank you for you words of live. You never cease to absolutely amaze me. Each and every time I open your word and read it you speak directly to me Thank YOU!! I love you!!!
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Am I ? Are You ?
Reading from June 27
2 Kings 13-14; 2 Chron. 25; 2 Tim. 3
TOPIC: Authenticity
SCRIPTURE: "these men are ... holding to a form of godliness, although they have denied its power; Avoid such men as these." (2 Tim.3:5)
OBSERVATION: Did you notice that list?
Lovers of Self
Lovers of Money
Boastful
Arrogant
Revilers
Disobedient to authority figures
Ungrateful
Unholy
Unloving
Irreconcilable
Malicious Gossips
Without Self-Control
Brutal
Haters of Good
Treacherous
Reckless
Conceited
Lovers of pleasure
It goes on to say that these men
Hold to a form of godliness
A Form
Even though they are holding to a form
they are denying its power
APPLICATION: I don't know about you
But as I read through that list
I can't help but think
GUILTY
Yep, at times
I am
Guilty as charged
of each
&
every
one
of
those
things
Am I holding to a form of Godliness?
Are you ?
Am I denying its power?
Are you ?
Am I to be avoided?
Are you?
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, search me and know my heart; try me and know my thoughts; and see if there be any hurtful way in me, and lead me in the everlasting way.
2 Kings 13-14; 2 Chron. 25; 2 Tim. 3
TOPIC: Authenticity
SCRIPTURE: "these men are ... holding to a form of godliness, although they have denied its power; Avoid such men as these." (2 Tim.3:5)
OBSERVATION: Did you notice that list?
Lovers of Self
Lovers of Money
Boastful
Arrogant
Revilers
Disobedient to authority figures
Ungrateful
Unholy
Unloving
Irreconcilable
Malicious Gossips
Without Self-Control
Brutal
Haters of Good
Treacherous
Reckless
Conceited
Lovers of pleasure
It goes on to say that these men
Hold to a form of godliness
A Form
Even though they are holding to a form
they are denying its power
APPLICATION: I don't know about you
But as I read through that list
I can't help but think
GUILTY
Yep, at times
I am
Guilty as charged
of each
&
every
one
of
those
things
Am I holding to a form of Godliness?
Are you ?
Am I denying its power?
Are you ?
Am I to be avoided?
Are you?
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, search me and know my heart; try me and know my thoughts; and see if there be any hurtful way in me, and lead me in the everlasting way.
Monday, May 25, 2009
Trying to Figure It Out
Hey Guys
I'm back and yet not fully
I'm planning to start blogging again
However
I will not be blogging everyday
I will be blogging over the next several weeks
in an attempt
to figure out
which schedule
works best
That maybe to blog
Once a week
3 Times a Week
or 5 Times
I don't know yet
But plan to discover that
over the next several weeks
Hope you're enjoying life
Joseph
I'm back and yet not fully
I'm planning to start blogging again
However
I will not be blogging everyday
I will be blogging over the next several weeks
in an attempt
to figure out
which schedule
works best
That maybe to blog
Once a week
3 Times a Week
or 5 Times
I don't know yet
But plan to discover that
over the next several weeks
Hope you're enjoying life
Joseph
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Monday, April 27, 2009
Saturday, April 25, 2009
The Invitation
Reading from April 25, 09
I Sam. 30-31; I Chron.10; Matt. 12
TOPIC: Restorative Partnership
SCRIPTURE: “Then He said to the man, ‘Stretch out your hand!’ He stretched it out, and it was restored to normal, like the other.. (Matthew 12:13)
OBSERVATION: Jesus invited the man to partner with Him.
The man with the withered hand responded by simply doing exactly what Jesus asked him to do. The results are as always when we simply follow Jesus’ lead
Things are restored
APPLICATION: So what about you?
Have you received the invite?
If so
I would encourage you
To simply follow the instruction(s)
Don’t add to
Nor
Take away from
What He said
If you
I
We
Will respond accordingly
Restoration will occur
I don’t know about you
BUT
I want things to be the way
God Intended for them to be
PRAYER: Hey Dad, I know or at least I am suppose to know or at the very least I hope I am coming to know that it’s not all about me. BUT in this case, because it involves me, I do want things to be the way you originally intended, so help me to partner with you.
I Sam. 30-31; I Chron.10; Matt. 12
TOPIC: Restorative Partnership
SCRIPTURE: “Then He said to the man, ‘Stretch out your hand!’ He stretched it out, and it was restored to normal, like the other.. (Matthew 12:13)
OBSERVATION: Jesus invited the man to partner with Him.
The man with the withered hand responded by simply doing exactly what Jesus asked him to do. The results are as always when we simply follow Jesus’ lead
Things are restored
APPLICATION: So what about you?
Have you received the invite?
If so
I would encourage you
To simply follow the instruction(s)
Don’t add to
Nor
Take away from
What He said
If you
I
We
Will respond accordingly
Restoration will occur
I don’t know about you
BUT
I want things to be the way
God Intended for them to be
PRAYER: Hey Dad, I know or at least I am suppose to know or at the very least I hope I am coming to know that it’s not all about me. BUT in this case, because it involves me, I do want things to be the way you originally intended, so help me to partner with you.
Friday, April 24, 2009
Report Cards Are Coming
Reading from April 24, 09
I Sam.28-29; Ps.109; Matt. 11
TOPIC: Your Works
SCRIPTURE: “ Now when John, while imprisoned, heard of the works of Christ, he sent word by his disciples and said to Him, ‘Are you the Expected One, or shall we look for someone else?’ Jesus answered and said to them, ‘Go and report to John what you hear and see: the blind receive sight and the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up and the poor have the gospel preached to them." (Matthew 11:2-6)
OBSERVATION: With so much evidence
Jesus’ identity was OBVIOUS
APPLICATION: I have a simple question for you.
Is yours?
PRAYER: May my report card prove to be all that my words claim, in Jesus Name!
I Sam.28-29; Ps.109; Matt. 11
TOPIC: Your Works
SCRIPTURE: “ Now when John, while imprisoned, heard of the works of Christ, he sent word by his disciples and said to Him, ‘Are you the Expected One, or shall we look for someone else?’ Jesus answered and said to them, ‘Go and report to John what you hear and see: the blind receive sight and the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up and the poor have the gospel preached to them." (Matthew 11:2-6)
OBSERVATION: With so much evidence
Jesus’ identity was OBVIOUS
APPLICATION: I have a simple question for you.
Is yours?
PRAYER: May my report card prove to be all that my words claim, in Jesus Name!
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Under Cover
Reading from April 23, 09
I Sam.27; Ps.141; I Chron. 9; Matt. 10
TOPIC: Hearing the Voice of God
SCRIPTURE: “What I tell you in the darkness, speak in the light; and what you hear whispered in your ear, proclaim upon the housetops "(Matthew 8:8)
OBSERVATION: Evidently there is some important stuff that can only be shared in the darkness and in the context of an intimate one on one conversation.
APPLICATION: R U setting aside time to be in your prayer closet
Make sure you are spending 1-0n-1 time
That means alone
Just the 2 of You
That would be You
And The Holy Spirit
You could be
Sorry let me restate that
U R
Missing out on sooooooooooooooooooooooooo Much
that the Lord wants to:
Share with you
Help you avoid
Remind you of
Bless you with
If
If ONLY
U
Yes you
ONLY You can do this
NO ONE ELSE can do this for you
For all those who were with us for the Death To Life Series, I am sure we still have a prayer shawl lying around if you need one.
PRAYER: Speak to me Daddy as I enter into my prayer closet.
I Sam.27; Ps.141; I Chron. 9; Matt. 10
TOPIC: Hearing the Voice of God
SCRIPTURE: “What I tell you in the darkness, speak in the light; and what you hear whispered in your ear, proclaim upon the housetops "(Matthew 8:8)
OBSERVATION: Evidently there is some important stuff that can only be shared in the darkness and in the context of an intimate one on one conversation.
APPLICATION: R U setting aside time to be in your prayer closet
Make sure you are spending 1-0n-1 time
That means alone
Just the 2 of You
That would be You
And The Holy Spirit
You could be
Sorry let me restate that
U R
Missing out on sooooooooooooooooooooooooo Much
that the Lord wants to:
Share with you
Help you avoid
Remind you of
Bless you with
If
If ONLY
U
Yes you
ONLY You can do this
NO ONE ELSE can do this for you
For all those who were with us for the Death To Life Series, I am sure we still have a prayer shawl lying around if you need one.
PRAYER: Speak to me Daddy as I enter into my prayer closet.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
That's Not What I Said
Reading from April 22, 09
I Sam.25-26; Ps.63; Matt. 9
TOPIC: Compassion
SCRIPTURE: “I desire compassion and NOT sacrifice for I did NOT come to call the righteous, but sinners ” (Matthew 9:13)
OBSERVATION: Here are some other passages that communicate the same idea.
Hosea 6:6-8 God doesn’t want sacrifices, he wants our loving loyalty. He wants us to acknowledge Him
I Sam.15:22-23 Obedience is far better than sacrifice
Ps. 40:6-8 God doesn’t want burnt offerings He wants our lifelong service
Ps. 51:16-19 God isn’t interested in penance He wants a broken repentant heart
Jer. 7:21-23 God wants our simple obedience
Amos 5:21-24 God hates pretense and hypocrisy He wants to see us doing what is right
Micah Do what is right love mercy and walk humbly with the Lord
APPLICATION: Being a father of three girls ( I did say wonderful, right!?!)
I can’t tell you how many times while doing the debriefing of a situation gone bad
one of them will share their side of the story.
All the while thinking of course
(O how “Thinking”can get us into trouble at times)
that she has been representing me (Good O Dad) to one if not both of her sisters.
I have had to inform her of the fact that “That’s NOT what I said”!!!
So many times growing up my parents would tell me to do something and then leave for a couple of hours
Wanting to impress them I would at times Sacrifice to the point of shedding blood sweat and tears
ONLY to discover upon their arrival
that what I had done
was NOT
And I mean NOT what they wanted.
Though many times they appreciated what I did do
At least that’s what they said
They would inevitably say, “That’s NOT What I Said” for you to do!
Though appreciative for the sacrifice
What I really wanted…What I said for you to do was___________________
What about you?
Has the Holy Spirit spoken to you lately
Are you doing what He said or are you adding to it
Thus missing the point altogether?
PRAYER: Daddy God, you know me, I’ve chosen the hard way, way too many times. Help me to keep is simple and begin today working smart, NOT hard
I Sam.25-26; Ps.63; Matt. 9
TOPIC: Compassion
SCRIPTURE: “I desire compassion and NOT sacrifice for I did NOT come to call the righteous, but sinners ” (Matthew 9:13)
OBSERVATION: Here are some other passages that communicate the same idea.
Hosea 6:6-8 God doesn’t want sacrifices, he wants our loving loyalty. He wants us to acknowledge Him
I Sam.15:22-23 Obedience is far better than sacrifice
Ps. 40:6-8 God doesn’t want burnt offerings He wants our lifelong service
Ps. 51:16-19 God isn’t interested in penance He wants a broken repentant heart
Jer. 7:21-23 God wants our simple obedience
Amos 5:21-24 God hates pretense and hypocrisy He wants to see us doing what is right
Micah Do what is right love mercy and walk humbly with the Lord
APPLICATION: Being a father of three girls ( I did say wonderful, right!?!)
I can’t tell you how many times while doing the debriefing of a situation gone bad
one of them will share their side of the story.
All the while thinking of course
(O how “Thinking”can get us into trouble at times)
that she has been representing me (Good O Dad) to one if not both of her sisters.
I have had to inform her of the fact that “That’s NOT what I said”!!!
So many times growing up my parents would tell me to do something and then leave for a couple of hours
Wanting to impress them I would at times Sacrifice to the point of shedding blood sweat and tears
ONLY to discover upon their arrival
that what I had done
was NOT
And I mean NOT what they wanted.
Though many times they appreciated what I did do
At least that’s what they said
They would inevitably say, “That’s NOT What I Said” for you to do!
Though appreciative for the sacrifice
What I really wanted…What I said for you to do was___________________
What about you?
Has the Holy Spirit spoken to you lately
Are you doing what He said or are you adding to it
Thus missing the point altogether?
PRAYER: Daddy God, you know me, I’ve chosen the hard way, way too many times. Help me to keep is simple and begin today working smart, NOT hard
Monday, April 20, 2009
Only One
Reading from April 21, 09
I Sam.24; Ps.57-58; I Chron. 8; Matt. 8
TOPIC: The Voice of God
SCRIPTURE: “But the centurion said, ‘Lord, I am not worthy for You to come under my roof, but just say the word, and my servant will be healed.’ ” (Matthew 8:8)
OBSERVATION: As I was reading through this chapter I noticed something repeated. Did you catch it? For me it started with the Centurion Guard’s statement to Jesus. He said “just say the word” and it will be done. As I continued to read I came across two more occasions in which Jesus cast out evil spirits (vv.16 & 32) with only a word.
APPLICATION: I am sure you’ve heard these expressions before:
1.) A picture can speak a thousand words
2.) That spoke Volumes to me
As we’ve witnessed through these 3 stories in Matthew there is definitely POWER in a word!!!
Think about these words listed below,
think about each and every time you’ve heard these words spoken.
STOP
GO
YES
NO
FORGIVEN
PEACE
CAUTION
GUILTY
ACCEPTED
SORRY
As you thought about each word I am sure you couldn’t help but think about the context in which you heard them
As a result of these 3 different stories from the life of Jesus
May you never underestimate the power in a single word
Especially
A single word
from
Your
Heavenly
Father.
PRAYER: Daddy, help me to listen to each and every word you speak and respond accordingly
I Sam.24; Ps.57-58; I Chron. 8; Matt. 8
TOPIC: The Voice of God
SCRIPTURE: “But the centurion said, ‘Lord, I am not worthy for You to come under my roof, but just say the word, and my servant will be healed.’ ” (Matthew 8:8)
OBSERVATION: As I was reading through this chapter I noticed something repeated. Did you catch it? For me it started with the Centurion Guard’s statement to Jesus. He said “just say the word” and it will be done. As I continued to read I came across two more occasions in which Jesus cast out evil spirits (vv.16 & 32) with only a word.
APPLICATION: I am sure you’ve heard these expressions before:
1.) A picture can speak a thousand words
2.) That spoke Volumes to me
As we’ve witnessed through these 3 stories in Matthew there is definitely POWER in a word!!!
Think about these words listed below,
think about each and every time you’ve heard these words spoken.
STOP
GO
YES
NO
FORGIVEN
PEACE
CAUTION
GUILTY
ACCEPTED
SORRY
As you thought about each word I am sure you couldn’t help but think about the context in which you heard them
As a result of these 3 different stories from the life of Jesus
May you never underestimate the power in a single word
Especially
A single word
from
Your
Heavenly
Father.
PRAYER: Daddy, help me to listen to each and every word you speak and respond accordingly
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Transitioning
Hey Blogger Fans
Hope you are doing well
Great News I've got my
new work computer up and running
Thanks to Pastor Stephen
However due to a couple of things
I am going to hold off blogging until
the week of April 21-26
Furthermore I will be on vacation
next week April 13-20
C U then
Joseph
Hope you are doing well
Great News I've got my
new work computer up and running
Thanks to Pastor Stephen
However due to a couple of things
I am going to hold off blogging until
the week of April 21-26
Furthermore I will be on vacation
next week April 13-20
C U then
Joseph
Friday, March 13, 2009
Living Free
Reading from March 14, 2009
Deut. 25-27; Gal. 5
TOPIC: Spirit-Led
SCRIPTURE: "But I say, walk and live [habitually] in the [Holy] Spirit [responsive to and controlled and guided by the Spirit]; then you will certainly not gratify the cravings and desires of the flesh (of human nature without God). For the desires of the flesh are opposed to the [Holy] Spirit, and the [desires of the] Spirit are opposed to the flesh [godless human nature]; for these are antagonistic to each other [continually withstanding and in conflict with each other], so that you are not free but are prevented from doing what you desire to do." (Gal. 5:16-17) Amplified Bible
OBSERVATION: If your desire is to have the qualities listed in 5:22,23, then you know that the Holy Spirit is leading you. At the same time, be careful not to confuse your subjective feelings with the Spirit's leading. Being led by the Holy Spirit involves the desire to hear, the readiness to obey God's Word, and the sensitivity to discern between your feelings and his promptings.
Paul describes the two forces fighting within us - the Holy Spirit and the sinful nature (our evil or inclinations that stem from our body). Paul is not saying that these forces are equal - the Holy Spirit is infinitely stronger. But if we rely on our own wisdom, we will make wrong choices. If we try to follow the Spirit by our own human effort, we will fail. Our only way to freedom from our evil desires is through the empowering of the Holy Spirit. [Life Application Study Bible]
APPLICATION: Controlled / Guided By / Lead Around / Submitted To
I don't know about you
but
that doesn't sound like freedom to me
However
as we see all throughout the Scriptures
the only way to live free
is to live each and every day
CONTROLLED
&
GUIDED BY
The Holy Spirit.
Only then
will our minds,
&
our actions
be like Jesus
And isn't that what it means to be a Christian?
Yep! (2B just like Jesus)
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, help me to daily, hourly, every minute of the day, and if needed each and every second to die to my way and my will!!!
Deut. 25-27; Gal. 5
TOPIC: Spirit-Led
SCRIPTURE: "But I say, walk and live [habitually] in the [Holy] Spirit [responsive to and controlled and guided by the Spirit]; then you will certainly not gratify the cravings and desires of the flesh (of human nature without God). For the desires of the flesh are opposed to the [Holy] Spirit, and the [desires of the] Spirit are opposed to the flesh [godless human nature]; for these are antagonistic to each other [continually withstanding and in conflict with each other], so that you are not free but are prevented from doing what you desire to do." (Gal. 5:16-17) Amplified Bible
OBSERVATION: If your desire is to have the qualities listed in 5:22,23, then you know that the Holy Spirit is leading you. At the same time, be careful not to confuse your subjective feelings with the Spirit's leading. Being led by the Holy Spirit involves the desire to hear, the readiness to obey God's Word, and the sensitivity to discern between your feelings and his promptings.
Paul describes the two forces fighting within us - the Holy Spirit and the sinful nature (our evil or inclinations that stem from our body). Paul is not saying that these forces are equal - the Holy Spirit is infinitely stronger. But if we rely on our own wisdom, we will make wrong choices. If we try to follow the Spirit by our own human effort, we will fail. Our only way to freedom from our evil desires is through the empowering of the Holy Spirit. [Life Application Study Bible]
APPLICATION: Controlled / Guided By / Lead Around / Submitted To
I don't know about you
but
that doesn't sound like freedom to me
However
as we see all throughout the Scriptures
the only way to live free
is to live each and every day
CONTROLLED
&
GUIDED BY
The Holy Spirit.
Only then
will our minds,
&
our actions
be like Jesus
And isn't that what it means to be a Christian?
Yep! (2B just like Jesus)
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, help me to daily, hourly, every minute of the day, and if needed each and every second to die to my way and my will!!!
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
It's Victory 4 Victoria
Congratulations
2
Victoria Fitzgerald
For her acceptance
N 2
Chatham Hall
Due to a wonderful fun filled evening
In Victoria's honor
along with some other responsibilities
I will not be blogging tonight
Hope you have a great night
Joey
2
Victoria Fitzgerald
For her acceptance
N 2
Chatham Hall
Due to a wonderful fun filled evening
In Victoria's honor
along with some other responsibilities
I will not be blogging tonight
Hope you have a great night
Joey
Monday, March 9, 2009
Answering the Call?
Sorry for the hit and miss nature of my blogs
However I still do not have a work computer
& my home computer is still giving us a few challenges.
Thus, I have not beeen able to blog consistently
Hopefully it will work tonight without locking up again
Here goes...
Reading from March 10, 2009
Deut.13-15; Gal. 1
TOPIC: Calling
SCRIPTURE: "Paul, an apostle - [special messenger appointed and commissioned and sent out] not from any body of men nor by or through any man, but by and through Jesus Christ (the Messiah) and God the Father, Who raised Him from among the dead - " (Gal. 1:1)
OBSERVATION: Paul and Barnabas had just completed their first missionary journey (Acts 13:2-14:28). They had visited Iconium, Lystra, and Derbe, cities in the Roman province of Galatia (present day Turkey). Upon returning, Paul was accused by some Jewish Christians of diluting Christianity to make it more appealing to Gentiles. These Jewish Christians disagreed with Paul's statements that Gentiles did not have to follow many of the religious laws that the the Jews had obeyed for centuries. Some of Paul's accusers had even followed him to those Galatian cities and had told the Gentile converts they had to be circumcised and follow all the Jewish laws and customs in order to be saved. According to the people, Gentiles had to first become Jews in order to become Christians.
In response to this threat, Paul wrote this letter to the Galatian churches. In it, he explains that following the Old Testament laws, or the Jewish laws, will not bring salvation. A person is saved by grace through faith. Paul wrote this letter about A.D. 49, shortly before the meeting of the Jerusalem council, which settled the law-versus-grace controversy (Acts 15) [Life Application Study Bible]
APPLICATION: Paul was called to be an apostle by Jesus.
Have you been called (commissioned by Jesus)
to be and do what you are currently doing?
Are you sure? Confirmation Please
IF NOT
Then why are you doing what you are doing?
Don't you want to know what Jesus is calling you to be and do?
IF SO
Ask Him !
Right now, yes you, stop and ask Him right now
Jesus what are you calling me to be and do?
Make NO mistake about it
Jesus is calling you
The question is:
Will you answer the call?
I look forward to hearing what you heard
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank you for call me personally. I still remember where I was and what I was doing.
However I still do not have a work computer
& my home computer is still giving us a few challenges.
Thus, I have not beeen able to blog consistently
Hopefully it will work tonight without locking up again
Here goes...
Reading from March 10, 2009
Deut.13-15; Gal. 1
TOPIC: Calling
SCRIPTURE: "Paul, an apostle - [special messenger appointed and commissioned and sent out] not from any body of men nor by or through any man, but by and through Jesus Christ (the Messiah) and God the Father, Who raised Him from among the dead - " (Gal. 1:1)
OBSERVATION: Paul and Barnabas had just completed their first missionary journey (Acts 13:2-14:28). They had visited Iconium, Lystra, and Derbe, cities in the Roman province of Galatia (present day Turkey). Upon returning, Paul was accused by some Jewish Christians of diluting Christianity to make it more appealing to Gentiles. These Jewish Christians disagreed with Paul's statements that Gentiles did not have to follow many of the religious laws that the the Jews had obeyed for centuries. Some of Paul's accusers had even followed him to those Galatian cities and had told the Gentile converts they had to be circumcised and follow all the Jewish laws and customs in order to be saved. According to the people, Gentiles had to first become Jews in order to become Christians.
In response to this threat, Paul wrote this letter to the Galatian churches. In it, he explains that following the Old Testament laws, or the Jewish laws, will not bring salvation. A person is saved by grace through faith. Paul wrote this letter about A.D. 49, shortly before the meeting of the Jerusalem council, which settled the law-versus-grace controversy (Acts 15) [Life Application Study Bible]
APPLICATION: Paul was called to be an apostle by Jesus.
Have you been called (commissioned by Jesus)
to be and do what you are currently doing?
Are you sure? Confirmation Please
IF NOT
Then why are you doing what you are doing?
Don't you want to know what Jesus is calling you to be and do?
IF SO
Ask Him !
Right now, yes you, stop and ask Him right now
Jesus what are you calling me to be and do?
Make NO mistake about it
Jesus is calling you
The question is:
Will you answer the call?
I look forward to hearing what you heard
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank you for call me personally. I still remember where I was and what I was doing.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
All Ears
Reading from March 6, 2009
Deut.3-4; Ps. 36; Mark 13
TOPIC: Spirit Led
SCRIPTURE: "Now when they take you to court and put you under arrest, do not be anxious beforehand about what you are to say nor even meditate about it; but say whatever is given you in that hour and at the moment, for it is not you who will be speaking, but the Holy Spirit." (Mark 13:11)
OBSERVATION: Jesus did not imply that studying the Bible and gaining knowledge is useless or wrong. Before and after his resurrection Jesus himself taught his disciples what to say and how to say it. But Jesus was teaching the kind of attitude we should have when we must take a stand for the Good News. We don't have to be fearful or defensive about our faith because the Holy Spirit will be present to give us the right words to say. [Life Application Study Bible]
APPLICATION: Matthew 10:19 -20 & Luke 12:12 share the same account
Matthew says, "the Spirit of your Heavenly Father will be speaking through you."
Luke says, "the Holy Spirit will teach you in that very hour and moment what you ought to say."
As I was reading through these accounts the part that grabbed me centered around the Holy Spirit speaking through the disciples. I don't know about you but when it comes to certain people and situations I need the Holy Spirit to speak through me.
If I rely on my own understanding
my words will be lacking
&
many times they will get me in trouble
SO
I don't know about you
BUT
I'm going to wait and listen for the voice of the Lord
Before I attempt to offer up counsel to others.
QUESTIONS:
Are you positioned to hear from the Holy Spirit?
&
Do you trust Him to speak
&
R U
willing
2 wait
on Him
2 speak
through you?
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, help me to be positioned and willing to obey. Period!
Deut.3-4; Ps. 36; Mark 13
TOPIC: Spirit Led
SCRIPTURE: "Now when they take you to court and put you under arrest, do not be anxious beforehand about what you are to say nor even meditate about it; but say whatever is given you in that hour and at the moment, for it is not you who will be speaking, but the Holy Spirit." (Mark 13:11)
OBSERVATION: Jesus did not imply that studying the Bible and gaining knowledge is useless or wrong. Before and after his resurrection Jesus himself taught his disciples what to say and how to say it. But Jesus was teaching the kind of attitude we should have when we must take a stand for the Good News. We don't have to be fearful or defensive about our faith because the Holy Spirit will be present to give us the right words to say. [Life Application Study Bible]
APPLICATION: Matthew 10:19 -20 & Luke 12:12 share the same account
Matthew says, "the Spirit of your Heavenly Father will be speaking through you."
Luke says, "the Holy Spirit will teach you in that very hour and moment what you ought to say."
As I was reading through these accounts the part that grabbed me centered around the Holy Spirit speaking through the disciples. I don't know about you but when it comes to certain people and situations I need the Holy Spirit to speak through me.
If I rely on my own understanding
my words will be lacking
&
many times they will get me in trouble
SO
I don't know about you
BUT
I'm going to wait and listen for the voice of the Lord
Before I attempt to offer up counsel to others.
QUESTIONS:
Are you positioned to hear from the Holy Spirit?
&
Do you trust Him to speak
&
R U
willing
2 wait
on Him
2 speak
through you?
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, help me to be positioned and willing to obey. Period!
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Kickoff of GroupLife
Due to the Kickoff of GroupLife
I did not blog last night
Sorry
Plan to blog tonight
Joey
I did not blog last night
Sorry
Plan to blog tonight
Joey
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Aye, aye Captain!
Reading from Feb. 18, 2009
Numbers 3-4; Acts 25
TOPIC: Obedience
SCRIPTURE: "And so the registration was completed just as the LORD had commanded." (Numbers 4:49)
OBSERVATION: As I was reading I noticed that this phrase was repeated several times: That Moses did JUST AS the LORD had commanded.
From reading this account it is apparent that Moses didn't have a problem following orders
APPLICATION: So do you ?
Do you have a problem following orders?
Here's what I mean:
Do you do JUST AS you are told?
or
Do you rebel ?
Do you do your own thing ?
Do you put your own slant on it ?
Are you guilty of being
a little
passive aggressive?
As you look back on your life
Would the song "My Way"
describe you?
OR
Are you like Moses?
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, help me to follow the example of Moses and do what you say when you say it JUST AS you say it.
Numbers 3-4; Acts 25
TOPIC: Obedience
SCRIPTURE: "And so the registration was completed just as the LORD had commanded." (Numbers 4:49)
OBSERVATION: As I was reading I noticed that this phrase was repeated several times: That Moses did JUST AS the LORD had commanded.
From reading this account it is apparent that Moses didn't have a problem following orders
APPLICATION: So do you ?
Do you have a problem following orders?
Here's what I mean:
Do you do JUST AS you are told?
or
Do you rebel ?
Do you do your own thing ?
Do you put your own slant on it ?
Are you guilty of being
a little
passive aggressive?
As you look back on your life
Would the song "My Way"
describe you?
OR
Are you like Moses?
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, help me to follow the example of Moses and do what you say when you say it JUST AS you say it.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Marching Orders
Reading from Feb. 16, 2009
Lev.26-27; Acts 23
TOPIC: Great Commission
SCRIPTURE: "That night the Master appeared to Paul: 'Its going to be all right. Everything is going to turn out for the best. You've been a good witness for me here in Jerusalem. Now you're going to be my witness in Rome!' " (Acts 23:
OBSERVATION: Jesus basically said to Paul, Well done good and faithful servant. You have been faithful with what I have asked of you here. Now I am going to send you to a new place.
APPLICATION: Have you been a good witness for Jesus
In your home ~ Spouse; Children; Siblings; Parents; In-Laws
To your neighbors
@ Work
&
Social gatherings
If Jesus appeared to you today
Would HE say well done to you?
&
Can you be trusted with more responsibility?
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, help me to be a good witness for you here in Danville, and help me to be ready and willing if you call me to leave.
Lev.26-27; Acts 23
TOPIC: Great Commission
SCRIPTURE: "That night the Master appeared to Paul: 'Its going to be all right. Everything is going to turn out for the best. You've been a good witness for me here in Jerusalem. Now you're going to be my witness in Rome!' " (Acts 23:
OBSERVATION: Jesus basically said to Paul, Well done good and faithful servant. You have been faithful with what I have asked of you here. Now I am going to send you to a new place.
APPLICATION: Have you been a good witness for Jesus
In your home ~ Spouse; Children; Siblings; Parents; In-Laws
To your neighbors
@ Work
&
Social gatherings
If Jesus appeared to you today
Would HE say well done to you?
&
Can you be trusted with more responsibility?
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, help me to be a good witness for you here in Danville, and help me to be ready and willing if you call me to leave.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
The Home Stretch
Only 1 more week
This is the last week of construction
PRAISE THE LORD
This Friday should wrap everything up
I hope
I pray
Looking forward to my new schedule
Hope you have a great weekend
C U Sunday
or at
GroupLife
Joey
This is the last week of construction
PRAISE THE LORD
This Friday should wrap everything up
I hope
I pray
Looking forward to my new schedule
Hope you have a great weekend
C U Sunday
or at
GroupLife
Joey
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Keeping the Channels Open
Reading from Feb. 11, 09
Leviticus 13-14; Acts 17
TOPIC: Evangelism
SCRIPTURE: "When they heard Paul speak of the resurrection of a person who had been dead, some laughed, but others said, "We want to hear more about this later." (Acts 17:32)
OBSERVATION: Paul's regular practice was to preach in synagogues. He wisely began by talking about Old Testament writings and explaining how the Messiah fulfilled them, moving from the known to the unknown. This is a good strategy for us. When we witness for Christ, we should begin where people are, affirming the truth they do know, and then we can present Christ, the one who is truth. [Life Application Study Bible]
APPLICATION: Paul was attentive to his surroundings!
When you go about your daily routine
R U
paying attention?
He was complimentary!
R U
a bridge builder?
He was bold!
R U
bold in your witness for Jesus?
SO
in your recent conversations with the unchurched
(NOTE: You know what that implies, right?
It implies that you've had a conversation with an unchurched person)
SO
If you have
Have you had anyone say to you, what they said to Paul
"We want to hear more about this (Jesus) later"?
If so that is great news
Because they are keeping the channels open
SO
Be praying about your next encounter with them
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, help me to remember Paul's example as I go throughout my daily routine
Leviticus 13-14; Acts 17
TOPIC: Evangelism
SCRIPTURE: "When they heard Paul speak of the resurrection of a person who had been dead, some laughed, but others said, "We want to hear more about this later." (Acts 17:32)
OBSERVATION: Paul's regular practice was to preach in synagogues. He wisely began by talking about Old Testament writings and explaining how the Messiah fulfilled them, moving from the known to the unknown. This is a good strategy for us. When we witness for Christ, we should begin where people are, affirming the truth they do know, and then we can present Christ, the one who is truth. [Life Application Study Bible]
APPLICATION: Paul was attentive to his surroundings!
When you go about your daily routine
R U
paying attention?
He was complimentary!
R U
a bridge builder?
He was bold!
R U
bold in your witness for Jesus?
SO
in your recent conversations with the unchurched
(NOTE: You know what that implies, right?
It implies that you've had a conversation with an unchurched person)
SO
If you have
Have you had anyone say to you, what they said to Paul
"We want to hear more about this (Jesus) later"?
If so that is great news
Because they are keeping the channels open
SO
Be praying about your next encounter with them
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, help me to remember Paul's example as I go throughout my daily routine
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Worship is NOT a slow song
Reading from Feb. 6, 2009
Lev. 1-3; Acts 13
TOPIC: True Worship
SCRIPTURE: "Now there were at Antioch, in the church that was there, prophets and teachers: Barnabas and Simeon who was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. While they were ministering to the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, 'Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.' " (Acts 13:1-2)
OBSERVATION: The phrase that jumped out at me while I was reading was, "while they were ministering to the Lord".
Ministering means that they were
worshiping
adoring
&
loving
on the Lord
APPLICATION: Contrary to popular belief
Worship is NOT a slow song
Worship is all about ministering to the LORD
REALLY
&
TRULY
ministered
to the LORD?
Here's a Challenge:
Don't include a Sunday Morning Worship Service!
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, help me to set aside time every day to minister to you!
Lev. 1-3; Acts 13
TOPIC: True Worship
SCRIPTURE: "Now there were at Antioch, in the church that was there, prophets and teachers: Barnabas and Simeon who was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. While they were ministering to the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, 'Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.' " (Acts 13:1-2)
OBSERVATION: The phrase that jumped out at me while I was reading was, "while they were ministering to the Lord".
Ministering means that they were
worshiping
adoring
&
loving
on the Lord
APPLICATION: Contrary to popular belief
Worship is NOT a slow song
Worship is all about ministering to the LORD
SO
When is the last time youREALLY
&
TRULY
ministered
to the LORD?
Here's a Challenge:
Don't include a Sunday Morning Worship Service!
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, help me to set aside time every day to minister to you!
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Your Word is Your Deed or Is It?
Reading from Feb. 5, 2009
Ex.39-40; Ps.15; Acts 12
TOPIC: Character
SCRIPTURE: "He swears to his own hurt and does not change;" (Ps. 15:4b)
OBSERVATION: Did you notice that the Psalmist said that he swears to his own hurt and does not change? Have you ever heard someone say something like this? "I swear on my mother's grave that...."
They were saying, "I give you my word"!!!
To swear means = to declare solemnly or forcefully that what is said is true
APPLICATION: Have you vowed to do something
only to realize you've yet to follow through?
Made any pledges recently that you've yet to pay?
Have you broken any promises lately?
Did you give your word only to go back on it?
Have you made this statement, "I guarantee you..."
only to come up short?
"Words are powerful, and how we use them reflects on our relationship with God. Perhaps nothing so identifies Christians as their speech - speaking the truth, and keeping their word." [Life Application Study Bible]
SO
Is your word your deed?
Ex.39-40; Ps.15; Acts 12
TOPIC: Character
SCRIPTURE: "He swears to his own hurt and does not change;" (Ps. 15:4b)
OBSERVATION: Did you notice that the Psalmist said that he swears to his own hurt and does not change? Have you ever heard someone say something like this? "I swear on my mother's grave that...."
They were saying, "I give you my word"!!!
To swear means = to declare solemnly or forcefully that what is said is true
APPLICATION: Have you vowed to do something
only to realize you've yet to follow through?
Made any pledges recently that you've yet to pay?
Have you broken any promises lately?
Did you give your word only to go back on it?
Have you made this statement, "I guarantee you..."
only to come up short?
"Words are powerful, and how we use them reflects on our relationship with God. Perhaps nothing so identifies Christians as their speech - speaking the truth, and keeping their word." [Life Application Study Bible]
SO
Is your word your deed?
Can your friends, family, & co-workers take what you say to the bank?
If you've said that you were going to do something you need to be like the Psalmist and do it even if it hurts you
PERIOD!
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, help me to always keep my word.Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Let Them Be
Reading from Feb.4, 2009
Ex.37-38; Ps.19; Acts 11
TOPIC: Awareness
SCRIPTURE: "Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O LORD, my rock and my Redeemer." (Ps.19:14)
OBSERVATION: In this passage we see King David making a request to God that He accept his words and thoughts as though they were offerings brought to the altar.
APPLICATION: Would you alter the way you live
if u knew that
every single word
&
every single thought
would be examined by God
1st?
Guess what?
They are
He does
Now what?
You have a choice
SO
Make a choice
Determine that God's love will guide
what you say
&
how you think. "
[Life Application Study Bible]
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, help me to never forget that you do know and you do hear and you do see ! ! !
Ex.37-38; Ps.19; Acts 11
TOPIC: Awareness
SCRIPTURE: "Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O LORD, my rock and my Redeemer." (Ps.19:14)
OBSERVATION: In this passage we see King David making a request to God that He accept his words and thoughts as though they were offerings brought to the altar.
APPLICATION: Would you alter the way you live
if u knew that
every single word
&
every single thought
would be examined by God
1st?
Guess what?
They are
He does
Now what?
You have a choice
SO
Make a choice
Determine that God's love will guide
what you say
&
how you think. "
[Life Application Study Bible]
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, help me to never forget that you do know and you do hear and you do see ! ! !
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Look-a-like?
Reading from Jan. 28, 09
Exodus 21-22; Psalm 12; Acts 4
TOPIC: Life Change
SCRIPTURE: "The members of the council were amazed when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, for they could see that they were ordinary men who had had no special training. They also recognized them as men who had been with Jesus." (Acts 4:13)
OBSERVATION: Knowing that Peter and John were unschooled, the council was amazed at what being with Jesus had done for them. A changed life convinces people of Christ's power. One of your greatest testimonies is the difference others see in your life and attitudes since you have believed in Christ. [Life Application Study Bible]
APPLICATION: If you've been with Him
then you're going to be
more and more like Him
If you ask the people that know you best
Will their testimony about you
be the same as
the council's testimony
about Peter and John?
Are others amazed?
Do they recognize
an ever growing likeness
of Jesus in you?
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, at the end of each day help me to always be able to say that I have been with Him!!!
Exodus 21-22; Psalm 12; Acts 4
TOPIC: Life Change
SCRIPTURE: "The members of the council were amazed when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, for they could see that they were ordinary men who had had no special training. They also recognized them as men who had been with Jesus." (Acts 4:13)
OBSERVATION: Knowing that Peter and John were unschooled, the council was amazed at what being with Jesus had done for them. A changed life convinces people of Christ's power. One of your greatest testimonies is the difference others see in your life and attitudes since you have believed in Christ. [Life Application Study Bible]
APPLICATION: If you've been with Him
then you're going to be
more and more like Him
If you ask the people that know you best
Will their testimony about you
be the same as
the council's testimony
about Peter and John?
Are others amazed?
Do they recognize
an ever growing likeness
of Jesus in you?
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, at the end of each day help me to always be able to say that I have been with Him!!!
Monday, January 26, 2009
Do Share
Reading from Jan. 27, 09
Exodus 17 - 20; Acts 3
TOPIC: Evangelism
SCRIPTURE: "Peter saw his opportunity and addressed the crowd,..." (Acts 3:12)
OBSERVATION: Peter had an audience, and he capitalized on the opportunity to share Jesus Christ. he clearly presented his message by telling (1) who Jesus is, (2) how the Jews had rejected him, (3) why their rejection was fatal, and (4) what they needed to do to change the situation. Peter told the crowd that they still had a choice; God still offered them the opportunity to believe and receive Jesus as their Messiah and as their Lord. Displays of God's mercy and grace, such as the healing of this lame man, often create teachable moments. Pray to have courage like Peter to see these opportunities and to use them to speak up for Christ.
[Life Application Study Bible]
Exodus 17 - 20; Acts 3
TOPIC: Evangelism
SCRIPTURE: "Peter saw his opportunity and addressed the crowd,..." (Acts 3:12)
OBSERVATION: Peter had an audience, and he capitalized on the opportunity to share Jesus Christ. he clearly presented his message by telling (1) who Jesus is, (2) how the Jews had rejected him, (3) why their rejection was fatal, and (4) what they needed to do to change the situation. Peter told the crowd that they still had a choice; God still offered them the opportunity to believe and receive Jesus as their Messiah and as their Lord. Displays of God's mercy and grace, such as the healing of this lame man, often create teachable moments. Pray to have courage like Peter to see these opportunities and to use them to speak up for Christ.
[Life Application Study Bible]
APPLICATION: Are you busy ? Everybody seems to be, but are you to busy to see an opportunity right before your very eyes? In case you have forgotten you pass by souls destined for eternity every single day.
People are still dying everyday without a personal relationship with Jesus
Whose the last person you shared Jesus with?
If it has been awhile ask the Lord to bring someone into your path
Remember
If you ask the Lord and mean it then get ready because He will give you an opportunity.
I look forward to hearing about your dialogue
Friday, January 23, 2009
From On High
Reading from Jan. 24, 2009
Ex.9-11; Luke 24
TOPIC: Spirit-Filled
SCRIPTURE: "And behold, I am sending forth the promise of My Father upon you, but you are to stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high." (Luke 24:49)
OBSERVATION: Our spiritual birth is just the beginning of our new relationship with God. After being born again, we need to grow spiritually. And our spiritual growth is dependent on the priceless fuel that God gives us to empower our spirit to follow Christ in every aspect of our behavior. Amazingly, this priceless fuel is the outworking of the third Person of the Trinity, the Holy Spirit. Without His ministry to us and His presence within us, we would be powerless to become what God wants us to be, to live the way He wants us to live, to achieve what He wants us to achieve, and to influence others the way He wants us to influence them.
APPLICATION: Are you clothed with power?
Here is how you will know
The Holy Spirit will:
R these things happening N
&
thru u?
IF NOT
Sorry
but your not clothed !
PRAYER: Father, fill me afresh and anew with your Spirit !
Ex.9-11; Luke 24
TOPIC: Spirit-Filled
SCRIPTURE: "And behold, I am sending forth the promise of My Father upon you, but you are to stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high." (Luke 24:49)
OBSERVATION: Our spiritual birth is just the beginning of our new relationship with God. After being born again, we need to grow spiritually. And our spiritual growth is dependent on the priceless fuel that God gives us to empower our spirit to follow Christ in every aspect of our behavior. Amazingly, this priceless fuel is the outworking of the third Person of the Trinity, the Holy Spirit. Without His ministry to us and His presence within us, we would be powerless to become what God wants us to be, to live the way He wants us to live, to achieve what He wants us to achieve, and to influence others the way He wants us to influence them.
APPLICATION: Are you clothed with power?
Here is how you will know
The Holy Spirit will:
- Teach you all things
- Guide you into all truth
- Cause you to remember everything Jesus said
- Be your Helper
- Be your Comforter
- Convict you of sin
- Reveal future events to you
- Empower you with spiritual abilities
- Enable you to witness for Christ
R these things happening N
&
thru u?
IF NOT
Sorry
but your not clothed !
PRAYER: Father, fill me afresh and anew with your Spirit !
Thursday, January 22, 2009
HE Will
Reading from Jan. 23, 2009
Ex.6-8; Luke 23
TOPIC: Freedom
SCRIPTURE: " 'I am the LORD, and I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians, and I will deliver you from the bondage. I will also redeem you with an outstretched arm and with great judgments. Then I will take you for My people, and I will be your God; and you shall know that I am the LORD your God, who brought you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians. I will bring you to the land which I swore to give to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and I will give it to you for a possession; I am the LORD. ' " (Exodus 6:6-8)
OBSERVATION: God's promises in these verses were fulfilled to the letter when the Hebrews left Egypt. He freed them from slavery, became their God, and accepted them as his people. Then he led them toward the land he had promised. When the Hebrews were rescued from slavery, they portrayed the drama of salvation for all of us. When God redeems us from sin, he delivers us, accepts us, and becomes our God. Then he leads us to a new life as we follow him.
Small problems need only small problems. But when we face great problems, God has an opportunity to exercise his great power. As the Hebrews' troubles grew steadily worse, God planned to intervene with his mighty power and perform great miracles to deliver them. How big are your problems? Big problems put you in a perfect position to watch God give big answers. [Life Application Study Bible]
APPLICATION: I felt impressed to share these verses...
2 Corinthians 3:17 Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.
Galatians 5:1 It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.
Ephesians 3:12In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence.
Colossians 2:6 So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him,
1 Corinthians 7:21Were you a slave when you were called? Don't let it trouble you—although if you can gain your freedom, do so.
HE will set you free
IF
U
Will
But
Let
HIM
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank you for setting me free, help me now to walk in that freedom everyday!
Ex.6-8; Luke 23
TOPIC: Freedom
SCRIPTURE: " 'I am the LORD, and I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians, and I will deliver you from the bondage. I will also redeem you with an outstretched arm and with great judgments. Then I will take you for My people, and I will be your God; and you shall know that I am the LORD your God, who brought you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians. I will bring you to the land which I swore to give to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and I will give it to you for a possession; I am the LORD. ' " (Exodus 6:6-8)
OBSERVATION: God's promises in these verses were fulfilled to the letter when the Hebrews left Egypt. He freed them from slavery, became their God, and accepted them as his people. Then he led them toward the land he had promised. When the Hebrews were rescued from slavery, they portrayed the drama of salvation for all of us. When God redeems us from sin, he delivers us, accepts us, and becomes our God. Then he leads us to a new life as we follow him.
Small problems need only small problems. But when we face great problems, God has an opportunity to exercise his great power. As the Hebrews' troubles grew steadily worse, God planned to intervene with his mighty power and perform great miracles to deliver them. How big are your problems? Big problems put you in a perfect position to watch God give big answers. [Life Application Study Bible]
APPLICATION: I felt impressed to share these verses...
2 Corinthians 3:17 Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.
Galatians 5:1 It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.
Ephesians 3:12In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence.
Colossians 2:6 So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him,
1 Corinthians 7:21Were you a slave when you were called? Don't let it trouble you—although if you can gain your freedom, do so.
HE will set you free
IF
U
Will
But
Let
HIM
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank you for setting me free, help me now to walk in that freedom everyday!
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Ask Away !
Reading from Jan. 22, 2009
Ex.3-5; Luke 22
TOPIC: Discovery
SCRIPTURE: "And Jesus said to them,
QUESTION: 'When I sent you out without money belt and bag and sandals,
you did not lack anything, did you?' "
ANSWER: They said, 'No, nothing.' " (Luke 22:35)
OBSERVATION: Jesus has such a great way of getting our attention and teaching us at the same time. He does it through the most simply way: By asking a question, as he did here with his disciples.
APPLICATION: Has He asked you a question lately?
How has it changed you?
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, ask away!
Ex.3-5; Luke 22
TOPIC: Discovery
SCRIPTURE: "And Jesus said to them,
QUESTION: 'When I sent you out without money belt and bag and sandals,
you did not lack anything, did you?' "
ANSWER: They said, 'No, nothing.' " (Luke 22:35)
OBSERVATION: Jesus has such a great way of getting our attention and teaching us at the same time. He does it through the most simply way: By asking a question, as he did here with his disciples.
APPLICATION: Has He asked you a question lately?
How has it changed you?
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, ask away!
Monday, January 19, 2009
Now That's A Great Question
Reading from Jan. 20 , 2009
Inauguration Day
Gen.49-50; Ps.8; Luke 20
TOPIC: The Right Perspective
SCRIPTURE: "But Joseph said to them, 'Do not be afraid, for am I in God's place?' 'As for you, you meant evil against me, BUT GOD meant it for good in order to bring about this present result, to preserve many people alive.' " (Gen.50:20)
OBSERVATION: Now that Jacob was dead, the brothers feared revenge from Joseph. Could he really have forgiven them for selling him into slavery? But to their surprise, Joseph not only forgave them but reassured them, offering to care for them and their families. Joseph's forgiveness was complete. He demonstrated how God graciously accepts us even though we don't deserve it. Because God forgives us even when we have ignored or rejected him, we should graciously forgive others.
God brought good from the brothers' evil deed, Potiphar's wife false accusations, the cup-bearer's neglect, and seven years of famine. The experiences in Joseph's life taught him that God brings good from evil for those who trust him. [Life Application Study Bible]
APPLICATION: Do you trust God enough to wait patiently for him to bring good out of bad situations?
SO
Do you trust God?
r u willing to wait?
Patiently?
Did you notice the plural word in that question?
Situations (Plural)
That means
All of them
Yes
even that situation
r u willing?
to wait ?
patiently?
for God ?
NOT U
for GOD
to bring the good out of even that situation?
Now that's a great question !
r u wrestling with it like I am?
PRAYER: Father God, help me to have your perspective on each and every situation I find myself in.
Inauguration Day
Gen.49-50; Ps.8; Luke 20
TOPIC: The Right Perspective
SCRIPTURE: "But Joseph said to them, 'Do not be afraid, for am I in God's place?' 'As for you, you meant evil against me, BUT GOD meant it for good in order to bring about this present result, to preserve many people alive.' " (Gen.50:20)
OBSERVATION: Now that Jacob was dead, the brothers feared revenge from Joseph. Could he really have forgiven them for selling him into slavery? But to their surprise, Joseph not only forgave them but reassured them, offering to care for them and their families. Joseph's forgiveness was complete. He demonstrated how God graciously accepts us even though we don't deserve it. Because God forgives us even when we have ignored or rejected him, we should graciously forgive others.
God brought good from the brothers' evil deed, Potiphar's wife false accusations, the cup-bearer's neglect, and seven years of famine. The experiences in Joseph's life taught him that God brings good from evil for those who trust him. [Life Application Study Bible]
APPLICATION: Do you trust God enough to wait patiently for him to bring good out of bad situations?
SO
Do you trust God?
r u willing to wait?
Patiently?
Did you notice the plural word in that question?
Situations (Plural)
That means
All of them
Yes
even that situation
r u willing?
to wait ?
patiently?
for God ?
NOT U
for GOD
to bring the good out of even that situation?
Now that's a great question !
r u wrestling with it like I am?
PRAYER: Father God, help me to have your perspective on each and every situation I find myself in.
Friday, January 16, 2009
Let It Go! Let It Go! Let It Go!
Reading from Jan. 17, 2009
Gen.42-43; Ps.5; Luke 17
TOPIC: Forgiveness
SCRIPTURE: "Be on your guard! If your brother sins, rebuke him;
and if he repents, forgive him. And if he sins against you
7 times a day,
and
returns to you 7 times,
saying, 'I repent,'
forgive him."
The apostles said to the Lord, 'Increase our faith!' " (Luke 17:5)
OBSERVATION: "The disciples' request was genuine; they wanted the faith necessary for such radical forgiveness. But Jesus didn't directly answer their question because the amount of faith is not as important as its genuineness. What is faith? It is complete trust and loyalty to God that results in a willingness to do his will. Faith is not something we use to put on a show for others. It is complete and humble obedience to God's will, readiness to do whatever he calls us to do. the amount of faith isn't as important as the right kind of faith - faith in our all-powerful God." [Life Application Study Bible]
APPLICATION: So what about you?
Yes You
What about you?
Do you need to forgive someone?
Ephesians 4:26 says, "do not let the sun go down..."
Before you forgive
Give the gift of forgiveness
TODAY
Every day
YES to that person
In the same way God through Jesus forgave you
You forgive ______________ (Fill N Blank)
Forgive Let It Go! Let It Go! Let It Go!
DO IT NOW
PRAYER: Father God, do whatever it takes for me to have ever increasing faith.
Gen.42-43; Ps.5; Luke 17
TOPIC: Forgiveness
SCRIPTURE: "Be on your guard! If your brother sins, rebuke him;
and if he repents, forgive him. And if he sins against you
7 times a day,
and
returns to you 7 times,
saying, 'I repent,'
forgive him."
The apostles said to the Lord, 'Increase our faith!' " (Luke 17:5)
OBSERVATION: "The disciples' request was genuine; they wanted the faith necessary for such radical forgiveness. But Jesus didn't directly answer their question because the amount of faith is not as important as its genuineness. What is faith? It is complete trust and loyalty to God that results in a willingness to do his will. Faith is not something we use to put on a show for others. It is complete and humble obedience to God's will, readiness to do whatever he calls us to do. the amount of faith isn't as important as the right kind of faith - faith in our all-powerful God." [Life Application Study Bible]
APPLICATION: So what about you?
Yes You
What about you?
Do you need to forgive someone?
Ephesians 4:26 says, "do not let the sun go down..."
Before you forgive
Give the gift of forgiveness
TODAY
Every day
YES to that person
In the same way God through Jesus forgave you
You forgive ______________ (Fill N Blank)
Forgive Let It Go! Let It Go! Let It Go!
DO IT NOW
PRAYER: Father God, do whatever it takes for me to have ever increasing faith.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
For Love or Money ?
Reading from Jan. 16, 2009
Gen. 39-41; Luke 16
TOPIC: Your Master
SCRIPTURE: "No servant can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money." (Luke 16:13)
OBSERVATION: Money has the power to take God's place in your life. It can become your master. Money is a hard master and a deceptive one. Wealth promises power and control, but often ti cannot deliver. Great fortunes can be made - and lost - overnight, and no amount of money can provide health, happiness, or eternal life. How much better it is to let God be your master. His servants have peace of mind and security, both now and forever. [Commentary from my Life Application Study Bible]
APPLICATION: How can you tell if you are a slave to money?
PRAYER: Father God, help me to serve only you Lord, only you!!!
Gen. 39-41; Luke 16
TOPIC: Your Master
SCRIPTURE: "No servant can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money." (Luke 16:13)
OBSERVATION: Money has the power to take God's place in your life. It can become your master. Money is a hard master and a deceptive one. Wealth promises power and control, but often ti cannot deliver. Great fortunes can be made - and lost - overnight, and no amount of money can provide health, happiness, or eternal life. How much better it is to let God be your master. His servants have peace of mind and security, both now and forever. [Commentary from my Life Application Study Bible]
APPLICATION: How can you tell if you are a slave to money?
(1) Do you think and worry about it frequently?
(2) Do you give up doing what you should do or would like to do in order to make more money?
(3) Do you spend a great deal of your time caring for your possessions?
(4) Is it hard for you to give money away?
(5) Are you in debt?
(6.) Do you scoff at Jesus' warnings against serving money?
(7) Do you try to explain them away?
[Questions from my Life Application Study Bible]
PRAYER: Father God, help me to serve only you Lord, only you!!!
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
What a compliment!
Reading from Jan. 15, 2009
Gen. 37-38; Ps.7; Luke 15
TOPIC: Relational Evangelism
SCRIPTURE: "Now all the tax collectors and the sinners were coming near Him and to listen to Him. Both the Pharisees and the scribes began to grumble, saying, 'This man receives sinners and eats with them.' " (Luke 15:1-2)
OBSERVATION: The Pharisees and the teachers of the law were bothered by Jesus' association with the tax collectors and sinners because of their observance of the law. They were always careful to stay "clean" according to the O.T. law. In fact, they went well beyond the law in their avoidance of certain people and situations and in their ritual washings.
By contrast, Jesus took their concept of "cleanness" lightly. He risked defilement by touching those who had leprosy and by neglecting to wash in the Pharisees' prescribed manner, and he showed complete disregard for their sanctions against associating with certain classes of people. He came to offer salvation to sinners and to show that God loves them. Jesus didn't worry about the accusations. Instead, he continued going to those who needed him, regardless of the effect these rejected people might have on his reputation. What a compliment, to be called a friend of sinners!
[Life Application Study Bible]
APPLICATION: SO
What keeps you away from people who need Jesus?
Is it said of you...
That you are a friend of sinners?
Do you receive "sinners"?
Do you eat with "sinners"?
Do you have them in your home?
Do they consider you their friend?
If NOT
WHY?
PRAYER: Father God, may I not just be accused, but found guilty of being a friend of sinners just like you were and are ! ! !
Gen. 37-38; Ps.7; Luke 15
TOPIC: Relational Evangelism
SCRIPTURE: "Now all the tax collectors and the sinners were coming near Him and to listen to Him. Both the Pharisees and the scribes began to grumble, saying, 'This man receives sinners and eats with them.' " (Luke 15:1-2)
OBSERVATION: The Pharisees and the teachers of the law were bothered by Jesus' association with the tax collectors and sinners because of their observance of the law. They were always careful to stay "clean" according to the O.T. law. In fact, they went well beyond the law in their avoidance of certain people and situations and in their ritual washings.
By contrast, Jesus took their concept of "cleanness" lightly. He risked defilement by touching those who had leprosy and by neglecting to wash in the Pharisees' prescribed manner, and he showed complete disregard for their sanctions against associating with certain classes of people. He came to offer salvation to sinners and to show that God loves them. Jesus didn't worry about the accusations. Instead, he continued going to those who needed him, regardless of the effect these rejected people might have on his reputation. What a compliment, to be called a friend of sinners!
[Life Application Study Bible]
APPLICATION: SO
What keeps you away from people who need Jesus?
Is it said of you...
That you are a friend of sinners?
Do you receive "sinners"?
Do you eat with "sinners"?
Do you have them in your home?
Do they consider you their friend?
If NOT
WHY?
PRAYER: Father God, may I not just be accused, but found guilty of being a friend of sinners just like you were and are ! ! !
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
American Idols
Reading from Jan. 13, 2009
Gen. 34-36; Luke 14
TOPIC: Eradication
SCRIPTURE: "So Jacob said to his household and to all who were with him, 'Put away the foreign gods which are among you, and purify yourselves and change your garments..." (Gen.35:2)
OBSERVATION: Why did the people have these idols? Idols were sometimes seen more as good luck charms than as gods. Some Israelites, even though they worshiped God, had idols in their homes, just as some Christians today own good luck trinkets. Jacob believed that idols should have NO place in his household. He wanted nothing to divert his family's spiritual focus. Jacob ordered his household to get rid of their idols.
[Life Application Study Bible]
APPLICATION: Unless we remove our
American idols from our lives,
they can ruin our faith.
What idols do you have?
Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal them to you!
Right Now
Go ahead and write down what He says
1.) ___________
2.) ___________
3.) ___________
You get the idea
Remember
An idol is anything we put before God.
ANYTHING
Idols don't have to be physical objects; they can be thoughts or desires.
Don't quickly rush by that
You might need to re-read that
Like Jacob we need to:
Rid ourselves
Purge
Wash out
Cleanse
Flush out
Eliminate
Remove
Do away with
Clear
Purify
Eradicate
Abolish
Get rid of
Any & All of our American Idols
PRAYER: Father God, reveal away ! Then help me to eradicate each and every one!!!
Gen. 34-36; Luke 14
TOPIC: Eradication
SCRIPTURE: "So Jacob said to his household and to all who were with him, 'Put away the foreign gods which are among you, and purify yourselves and change your garments..." (Gen.35:2)
OBSERVATION: Why did the people have these idols? Idols were sometimes seen more as good luck charms than as gods. Some Israelites, even though they worshiped God, had idols in their homes, just as some Christians today own good luck trinkets. Jacob believed that idols should have NO place in his household. He wanted nothing to divert his family's spiritual focus. Jacob ordered his household to get rid of their idols.
[Life Application Study Bible]
APPLICATION: Unless we remove our
American idols from our lives,
they can ruin our faith.
What idols do you have?
Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal them to you!
Right Now
Go ahead and write down what He says
1.) ___________
2.) ___________
3.) ___________
You get the idea
Remember
An idol is anything we put before God.
ANYTHING
Idols don't have to be physical objects; they can be thoughts or desires.
Don't quickly rush by that
You might need to re-read that
Like Jacob we need to:
Rid ourselves
Purge
Wash out
Cleanse
Flush out
Eliminate
Remove
Do away with
Clear
Purify
Eradicate
Abolish
Get rid of
Any & All of our American Idols
PRAYER: Father God, reveal away ! Then help me to eradicate each and every one!!!
Monday, January 12, 2009
Another Chance
Reading from Jan. 13, 2009
Gen. 31-33; Luke 13
TOPIC: Fruitfulness
SCRIPTURE: "And Jesus began telling this parable: 'A man had a fig tree which had been planted in his vineyard; and he came looking for fruit on it and did not find any. And he said to the vineyard-keeper, 'Behold, for three years I have come looking for fruit on this fig tree without finding any. Cut it down! Why does it even use up the ground?'
And he answered and said to him, 'Let it alone sir, for this year too, until I dig around it and put in fertilizer; and if it bears fruit next year, fine; but it not, cut it down.' " (Luke 13:6-9)
OBSERVATION: I read these observations about this parable in my Life Application Study Bible. In the Old Testament, a fruitful tree was often used as a symbol of godly living (see, for example, Psalm 1:3 and Jeremiah 17:7-8). Jesus pointed out what would happen to the other kind of tree-the kind that took valuable time and space and still produced nothing
for the patient gardener. By this illustration Jesus warned his listeners that God would not tolerate forever their lack of productivity. (Luke 3:9 records John the Baptist's version of the same message: It reads, "Even now the ax of God's judgment is poised, ready to sever your roots. Yes, every tree that does NOT produce good fruit will be chopped down...")
APPLICATION: As you look back over the last three years of your life
Your Family relationships
Your Job
Your Hobbies
Your ________ (You Fill-N-Blank)
What does Jesus have to say about your "Fig Tree"?
Fruitful? Yes or No
If yes
Good Fruit? Yes or No
If yes
Can you prove it? Yes or No
If yes
Do those closest to you concur? Yes or No
If yes
Can they prove it? Yes or No
If no to any or all of these questions
KNOW THIS
You have another chance ! ! !
2009 is here
Start now
Give the gardener (The Holy Spirit) your undivided attention
&
allow HIM to use HIS "fertilizer" on your unfruitful fig tree?
Let's See What HE Can Do This Year?
PRAYER: Father God, give as much attention to my roots as is needed and fertilize away!!!
Gen. 31-33; Luke 13
TOPIC: Fruitfulness
SCRIPTURE: "And Jesus began telling this parable: 'A man had a fig tree which had been planted in his vineyard; and he came looking for fruit on it and did not find any. And he said to the vineyard-keeper, 'Behold, for three years I have come looking for fruit on this fig tree without finding any. Cut it down! Why does it even use up the ground?'
And he answered and said to him, 'Let it alone sir, for this year too, until I dig around it and put in fertilizer; and if it bears fruit next year, fine; but it not, cut it down.' " (Luke 13:6-9)
OBSERVATION: I read these observations about this parable in my Life Application Study Bible. In the Old Testament, a fruitful tree was often used as a symbol of godly living (see, for example, Psalm 1:3 and Jeremiah 17:7-8). Jesus pointed out what would happen to the other kind of tree-the kind that took valuable time and space and still produced nothing
for the patient gardener. By this illustration Jesus warned his listeners that God would not tolerate forever their lack of productivity. (Luke 3:9 records John the Baptist's version of the same message: It reads, "Even now the ax of God's judgment is poised, ready to sever your roots. Yes, every tree that does NOT produce good fruit will be chopped down...")
APPLICATION: As you look back over the last three years of your life
Your Family relationships
Your Job
Your Hobbies
Your ________ (You Fill-N-Blank)
What does Jesus have to say about your "Fig Tree"?
Fruitful? Yes or No
If yes
Good Fruit? Yes or No
If yes
Can you prove it? Yes or No
If yes
Do those closest to you concur? Yes or No
If yes
Can they prove it? Yes or No
If no to any or all of these questions
KNOW THIS
You have another chance ! ! !
2009 is here
Start now
Give the gardener (The Holy Spirit) your undivided attention
&
allow HIM to use HIS "fertilizer" on your unfruitful fig tree?
Let's See What HE Can Do This Year?
PRAYER: Father God, give as much attention to my roots as is needed and fertilize away!!!
Friday, January 9, 2009
Help Needed ! ! !
Reading from Jan.10, 2009
Gen.24-25; Luke 10
TOPIC: Prayer
SCRIPTURE: "Pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest, and ask him to send out MORE WORKERS for his fields." (Luke 10:2)
OBSERVATION: 'As we see here there were far more than 12 people that had been following Jesus. Here Jesus designated a group of 72 to prepare a number of towns for Jesus' later visit. These disciples were not unique in their qualifications. They were not better educated, more capable, or of higher status than other followers of Jesus. What prepared them for this mission was that they had been equipped with Jesus' power and their vision to reach all the people. It is important to dedicate our skills to God's kingdom, but we must also be equipped with his power and have a clear vision of what he wants us to do.
Jesus was sending 36 teams of two to reach the multitudes. These teams were not to try to do the job without help; rather,
they
were to ask God for more workers. Some people as soon as they understand the Good News, want to go to work immediately contacting unsaved people. This story seems to suggests a different approach. Begin by mobilizing people to pray. And before praying for unsaved people, pray that other concerned disciples will join you in reaching out to them." [Life Application Study Bible]
APPLICATION: There is no unemployment in the Kingdom of God.
God has work enough for everyone.
Don't just sit back and watch others work - look for ways to help with the harvest
If you don't know where to start
Start by praying
Praying for more workers
Because Help is needed!!!
Right NOW!
Ask our Lord
Ask Him to send people from all over the world to come to Danville to help us!
PRAYER: Father God, I pray that you will send more workers into New Life as we prepare for the harvest.
Gen.24-25; Luke 10
TOPIC: Prayer
SCRIPTURE: "Pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest, and ask him to send out MORE WORKERS for his fields." (Luke 10:2)
OBSERVATION: 'As we see here there were far more than 12 people that had been following Jesus. Here Jesus designated a group of 72 to prepare a number of towns for Jesus' later visit. These disciples were not unique in their qualifications. They were not better educated, more capable, or of higher status than other followers of Jesus. What prepared them for this mission was that they had been equipped with Jesus' power and their vision to reach all the people. It is important to dedicate our skills to God's kingdom, but we must also be equipped with his power and have a clear vision of what he wants us to do.
Jesus was sending 36 teams of two to reach the multitudes. These teams were not to try to do the job without help; rather,
they
were to ask God for more workers. Some people as soon as they understand the Good News, want to go to work immediately contacting unsaved people. This story seems to suggests a different approach. Begin by mobilizing people to pray. And before praying for unsaved people, pray that other concerned disciples will join you in reaching out to them." [Life Application Study Bible]
APPLICATION: There is no unemployment in the Kingdom of God.
God has work enough for everyone.
Don't just sit back and watch others work - look for ways to help with the harvest
If you don't know where to start
Start by praying
Praying for more workers
Because Help is needed!!!
Right NOW!
Ask our Lord
Ask Him to send people from all over the world to come to Danville to help us!
PRAYER: Father God, I pray that you will send more workers into New Life as we prepare for the harvest.
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Your "Lens"
Reading from Jan.9, 2009
Gen.23,24; Luke 9
TOPIC: Perspective
SCRIPTURE: "When the apostles returned, they gave an account to Him of all that they had done. Taking them with Him, He withdrew by Himself to a city called Bethsaida.
BUT
the crowds were aware of this and followed Him;
and
welcoming them, He began speaking to them about the kingdom of God and curing those who had need of healing." (Luke 9:10-11)
OBSERVATION: Jesus was in the process of trying to get a little R&R by slipping quietly away from the crowds, BUT they found out where he was going and followed him. Instead of showing impatience at this interruption, we read that Jesus welcomed the people and ministered to their needs.
APPLICATION: How do you see people who interrupt your schedule - as nuisances or as the reason for your life and ministry?
I recently read this from John Maxwell's book Winning with People:
"Who you are determines the way you see people. You cannot separate your identity from your perspective. All that you are and every experience you've had color how you see others. It is your lens. Here's what I mean:
A traveler nearing a great city asked an old man seated by the road,
"What are the people like in the city?"
"What were they like where you came from?" the man asked.
"Horrible,"the traveler reported. "Mean, untrustworthy, detestable in all respects."
"Ah, " said the old man, "you will find them the same in they city ahead."
Scarcely had the 1st traveler gone on his way when another stopped to inquire about the people in the city before him.
Again the old man asked about the people in the place the traveler has just left.
"They were fine people: honest, industrious, and generous to a fault,"
declared the second traveler. "I was sorry to leave."
the old man responded, "That's exactly how you'll find the people here."
The way people see others is a reflection of themselves:
If I am a trusting person, I will see others as trustworthy.
If I am a critical person, I will see others as critical.
If I am a caring person, I will see others as compassionate.
If you change yourself and become the kind of person you desire to be,
you will begin to view others in a whole new light.
And that will change the way you interact in all of your relationships."
BE AWARE OF YOUR "LENS" TODAY
AS YOU INTERACT WITH OTHERS.
PRAYER: Father God, help me to see people as you do!
Gen.23,24; Luke 9
TOPIC: Perspective
SCRIPTURE: "When the apostles returned, they gave an account to Him of all that they had done. Taking them with Him, He withdrew by Himself to a city called Bethsaida.
BUT
the crowds were aware of this and followed Him;
and
welcoming them, He began speaking to them about the kingdom of God and curing those who had need of healing." (Luke 9:10-11)
OBSERVATION: Jesus was in the process of trying to get a little R&R by slipping quietly away from the crowds, BUT they found out where he was going and followed him. Instead of showing impatience at this interruption, we read that Jesus welcomed the people and ministered to their needs.
APPLICATION: How do you see people who interrupt your schedule - as nuisances or as the reason for your life and ministry?
I recently read this from John Maxwell's book Winning with People:
"Who you are determines the way you see people. You cannot separate your identity from your perspective. All that you are and every experience you've had color how you see others. It is your lens. Here's what I mean:
A traveler nearing a great city asked an old man seated by the road,
"What are the people like in the city?"
"What were they like where you came from?" the man asked.
"Horrible,"the traveler reported. "Mean, untrustworthy, detestable in all respects."
"Ah, " said the old man, "you will find them the same in they city ahead."
Scarcely had the 1st traveler gone on his way when another stopped to inquire about the people in the city before him.
Again the old man asked about the people in the place the traveler has just left.
"They were fine people: honest, industrious, and generous to a fault,"
declared the second traveler. "I was sorry to leave."
the old man responded, "That's exactly how you'll find the people here."
The way people see others is a reflection of themselves:
If I am a trusting person, I will see others as trustworthy.
If I am a critical person, I will see others as critical.
If I am a caring person, I will see others as compassionate.
If you change yourself and become the kind of person you desire to be,
you will begin to view others in a whole new light.
And that will change the way you interact in all of your relationships."
BE AWARE OF YOUR "LENS" TODAY
AS YOU INTERACT WITH OTHERS.
PRAYER: Father God, help me to see people as you do!
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
How do you spell relief?
Reading from Jan. 8, 2009
Gen.20-22; Luke 8
TOPIC: Omniscience
SCRIPTURE: "Then God said to him in the dream, "Yes, I know, that in the integrity of your heart you have done this..." (Gen.20:6)
OBSERVATION: Abimelech had unknowingly taken a married woman to be his wife and was about to commit adultery. But God somehow prevented him from touching Sarah and held him back from sinning. What mercy on God's part! How many times has God done the same for us, holding us back from sin in ways we can't even detect? We have no way of knowing - we just know from this story that he can. God works just as often in ways we can't see as in ways we can.
[Life Application Study Bible]
APPLICATION: What a relief to know that God knows
That He actually knows
everything
Absolutely
Everything
About Me
That Reminds me of a great song
we've sung at church before
He knows my name
He knows my every thought
He sees each tear that fails
&
He hears me when I call
O yes, He hears me when I call
He knew all about Abimelech's integrity (20:6)
He knew all about Abraham's reverence (22:12)
He even knows all about you
&
your _____________
(you fill in the blank)
REST in that
I don't know about you
But I spell relief
With a capital HE
Space k n o w s
Which spells
HE knows
&
He's going to take care of it
PRAYER: Father God, thank you for including these stories in your word
Gen.20-22; Luke 8
TOPIC: Omniscience
SCRIPTURE: "Then God said to him in the dream, "Yes, I know, that in the integrity of your heart you have done this..." (Gen.20:6)
OBSERVATION: Abimelech had unknowingly taken a married woman to be his wife and was about to commit adultery. But God somehow prevented him from touching Sarah and held him back from sinning. What mercy on God's part! How many times has God done the same for us, holding us back from sin in ways we can't even detect? We have no way of knowing - we just know from this story that he can. God works just as often in ways we can't see as in ways we can.
[Life Application Study Bible]
APPLICATION: What a relief to know that God knows
That He actually knows
everything
Absolutely
Everything
About Me
That Reminds me of a great song
we've sung at church before
He knows my name
He knows my every thought
He sees each tear that fails
&
He hears me when I call
O yes, He hears me when I call
He knew all about Abimelech's integrity (20:6)
He knew all about Abraham's reverence (22:12)
He even knows all about you
&
your _____________
(you fill in the blank)
REST in that
I don't know about you
But I spell relief
With a capital HE
Space k n o w s
Which spells
HE knows
&
He's going to take care of it
PRAYER: Father God, thank you for including these stories in your word
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Walk the Plank Matey
Reading from Jan. 7, 2009
Gen 15,16,17; Luke 6
TOPIC: Self Reflection
SCRIPTURE: "Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, 'Brother, let me take the speck out of your eye,' when you yourself fail to see the plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, 1st take the plank our of your eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye. " (Luke 6 41-42)
OBSERVATION: Jesus is not saying that we are to ignore wrongdoing,
BUT we should NOT be soooooo worried about others' sins that we overlook our own. We often rationalize our sins by pointing out the same mistakes in others. It's so much easier that way, but Jesus wants us to do the hard work of self reflection!
APPLICATION: What kinds of specks in others eyes are the easiest for you to criticize? Remember your own "Plank" when you feel like criticizing,
&
U may find that you have less to say.
To make it short sweet and to the point
FOCUS ON
YOURSELF
90 some % of the time
U
R
the
problem
anyway
Right?
In light of that
take some time to reflect
(Self Reflect that is)
Take a
s
l
o
w
walk down Plank Drive
QUESTION:
How many planks did you find?
Answer:_______
QUESTION:
Have you removed them yet?
Answer:_______
PRAYER: Father God, help me to simply obey this scripture, period!
Gen 15,16,17; Luke 6
TOPIC: Self Reflection
SCRIPTURE: "Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, 'Brother, let me take the speck out of your eye,' when you yourself fail to see the plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, 1st take the plank our of your eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye. " (Luke 6 41-42)
OBSERVATION: Jesus is not saying that we are to ignore wrongdoing,
BUT we should NOT be soooooo worried about others' sins that we overlook our own. We often rationalize our sins by pointing out the same mistakes in others. It's so much easier that way, but Jesus wants us to do the hard work of self reflection!
APPLICATION: What kinds of specks in others eyes are the easiest for you to criticize? Remember your own "Plank" when you feel like criticizing,
&
U may find that you have less to say.
To make it short sweet and to the point
FOCUS ON
YOURSELF
90 some % of the time
U
R
the
problem
anyway
Right?
In light of that
take some time to reflect
(Self Reflect that is)
Take a
s
l
o
w
walk down Plank Drive
QUESTION:
How many planks did you find?
Answer:_______
QUESTION:
Have you removed them yet?
Answer:_______
PRAYER: Father God, help me to simply obey this scripture, period!
Monday, January 5, 2009
U Think U Dodged The Bullet?
Reading from Jan. 6, 2009
Gen. 12,13,14; Luke 5
TOPIC: Deception
SCRIPTURE: "But if you say you are my sister, then the Egyptians will treat me well because of their interest in you, and they will spare my life."
OBSERVATION: The Life Application Study Bible says "Abram, acted out of fear, and thus asked Sarai to tell a half-truth by saying she was his sister. She was his half sister,
BUT
she was also his wife.
Abram's intent was to deceive the Egyptians.
He feared that if they knew the truth, they would kill him to get Sarai. She would have been a desirable addition to Pharaoh's harem because of her wealth, beauty, and potential for political alliance. As Sarai's brother, Abram would have been given a place of honor. As her husband, however, his life would be in danger because Sarai could not enter Pharaoh's harem unless Abram was dead. So Abram lost faith in God's protection, even after all God has promised him, and told a half-truth. This shows how lying compounds the effects of sin. When he lied, Abram's problems multiplied."
APPLICATION: So
Have you recently acted out of fear?
Did you tell the truth and yet leave out important details ?
Thus deceiving people
Deception
#1.) the practice of deliberately making somebody believe things that are not true
#2.) an act, trick, or device intended to deceive or mislead somebody
If u think u dodged the bullet
U
Had
Better
Think again!
Re-read Gen. 12:17-20
Your problems
will multiply
like Abram's
Eventually
It's never 2 late
2 Do Right!
Don't wait until you're exposed by another!
U
Make it right
&
Do it
2day!!!
PRAYER: Father God, search my heart and see if there is any deceptive way within me. Reveal it to me that I may confess it and forsake it.
Gen. 12,13,14; Luke 5
TOPIC: Deception
SCRIPTURE: "But if you say you are my sister, then the Egyptians will treat me well because of their interest in you, and they will spare my life."
OBSERVATION: The Life Application Study Bible says "Abram, acted out of fear, and thus asked Sarai to tell a half-truth by saying she was his sister. She was his half sister,
BUT
she was also his wife.
Abram's intent was to deceive the Egyptians.
He feared that if they knew the truth, they would kill him to get Sarai. She would have been a desirable addition to Pharaoh's harem because of her wealth, beauty, and potential for political alliance. As Sarai's brother, Abram would have been given a place of honor. As her husband, however, his life would be in danger because Sarai could not enter Pharaoh's harem unless Abram was dead. So Abram lost faith in God's protection, even after all God has promised him, and told a half-truth. This shows how lying compounds the effects of sin. When he lied, Abram's problems multiplied."
APPLICATION: So
Have you recently acted out of fear?
Did you tell the truth and yet leave out important details ?
Thus deceiving people
Deception
#1.) the practice of deliberately making somebody believe things that are not true
#2.) an act, trick, or device intended to deceive or mislead somebody
If u think u dodged the bullet
U
Had
Better
Think again!
Re-read Gen. 12:17-20
Your problems
will multiply
like Abram's
Eventually
It's never 2 late
2 Do Right!
Don't wait until you're exposed by another!
U
Make it right
&
Do it
2day!!!
PRAYER: Father God, search my heart and see if there is any deceptive way within me. Reveal it to me that I may confess it and forsake it.
Friday, January 2, 2009
As God Commands
Reading from Jan.3, 2009 Happy New Year! ! !
Gen. 6-8; Luke 3
TOPIC: Obedience
SCRIPTURE: "BUT Noah found favor in the eyes of the LORD. Noah was a righteous man, blameless in his time; Noah walked with God." (Gen.6:8-9)
OBSERVATION: Here we see our Heavenly Father expressing sorrow for what the people had done to themselves, as a parent might express sorrow over a child that has gone astray. God was sorry that the people chose sin and death instead of a intimate daily personal relationship with him. Noah, however, pleased God, although he was far from perfect. We can follow Noah's example and find "favor with the LORD" in spite of the sin that surrounds us.
[Life Application Study Bible]
APPLICATION: Noah was the primary follower of God left in his generation
He was a man of patience, consistency, and obedience
6:22 = Noah did according to all that God had commanded him
7:5 = Noah did according to ALL that the LORD had commanded him
7:9 = ...as God had commanded Noah.
7:16 = ...as God had commanded him...
Question: Did you notice what was repeated?
Answer: Noah did as God commanded
So
What can you learn from the life of Noah?
That when we make a choice to sin it grieves God
Every
Single
Time
&
Ultimately
That our Heavenly Father is faithful to those who obey him
SO
R U going 2 do
AS
GOD
COMMANDS
?????????????
PRAYER: Father God, help me to do according to all that you command me!
Gen. 6-8; Luke 3
TOPIC: Obedience
SCRIPTURE: "BUT Noah found favor in the eyes of the LORD. Noah was a righteous man, blameless in his time; Noah walked with God." (Gen.6:8-9)
OBSERVATION: Here we see our Heavenly Father expressing sorrow for what the people had done to themselves, as a parent might express sorrow over a child that has gone astray. God was sorry that the people chose sin and death instead of a intimate daily personal relationship with him. Noah, however, pleased God, although he was far from perfect. We can follow Noah's example and find "favor with the LORD" in spite of the sin that surrounds us.
[Life Application Study Bible]
APPLICATION: Noah was the primary follower of God left in his generation
He was a man of patience, consistency, and obedience
6:22 = Noah did according to all that God had commanded him
7:5 = Noah did according to ALL that the LORD had commanded him
7:9 = ...as God had commanded Noah.
7:16 = ...as God had commanded him...
Question: Did you notice what was repeated?
Answer: Noah did as God commanded
So
What can you learn from the life of Noah?
That when we make a choice to sin it grieves God
Every
Single
Time
&
Ultimately
That our Heavenly Father is faithful to those who obey him
SO
R U going 2 do
AS
GOD
COMMANDS
?????????????
PRAYER: Father God, help me to do according to all that you command me!
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Show Me The Money
Reading from Jan.2,2009 Happy New Year!!!
Gen.3-5; Luke 3
TOPIC: Proof
SCRIPTURE: "...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: My Life Application Study Bible says, many of John's hearers would have been shocked when Jesus said that being Abraham's descendants was not enough for God. The religious leaders of Jesus' day relied more on family lines than on faith for their standing with God. For them, religion was inherited.
But
A personal relationship with God is not handed down from parents to children. Everyone has to make a personal decision of whether or not to trust Christ.
Don't
Rely on someone else's faith for your salvation.
Put your faith in Jesus
&
L I V E it every day.
APPLICATION: In the book of James we read that
Faith without deeds is dead ! ! ! Furthermore
Jesus' harshest words were to the respectable religious leaders,
who lacked the desire for real 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.
Turning from sin
MUST
be tied to A C T I O N
OR
It isn't real.
Being a follower of Jesus
means
more than saying the right words
It means
A C T I N G on what he says.
PRAYER: Father God, help me to live out everyday what I read in your word.
Gen.3-5; Luke 3
TOPIC: Proof
SCRIPTURE: "...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: My Life Application Study Bible says, many of John's hearers would have been shocked when Jesus said that being Abraham's descendants was not enough for God. The religious leaders of Jesus' day relied more on family lines than on faith for their standing with God. For them, religion was inherited.
But
A personal relationship with God is not handed down from parents to children. Everyone has to make a personal decision of whether or not to trust Christ.
Don't
Rely on someone else's faith for your salvation.
Put your faith in Jesus
&
L I V E it every day.
APPLICATION: In the book of James we read that
Faith without deeds is dead ! ! ! Furthermore
Jesus' harshest words were to the respectable religious leaders,
who lacked the desire for real 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.
Turning from sin
MUST
be tied to A C T I O N
OR
It isn't real.
Being a follower of Jesus
means
more than saying the right words
It means
A C T I N G on what he says.
PRAYER: Father God, help me to live out everyday what I read in your word.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
