Daniel 1: 3-4, 17, 19
Then the king ordered Ashpenaz, chief of his court officials, to bring in some of the Israelites from the royal family and the nobility- young men without any physical defect, handsome, showing aptitude for every kind of learning, well informed, quick to understand, and qualified to serve in the king's palace. He was to teach them the language and literature of the Babylonians.
To these four young men God gave knowledge and understanding of all kinds of literature and learning. And Daniel could understand visions and dreams of all kinds.
The king talked with them, and he found none equal to Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah; so they entered the king's service.
Most High King of Heaven,
You have chosen and adopted me into Your royal family. Because You have made me righteous, I have no defects. All of my deformities were made perfect at the foot of the cross. The ashes of my sin were made into beauty. You have lavished me wisdom and understanding to know the mysteries of Your good, pleasing and perfect will. I am qualified to serve You, my high and heavenly King.
This world is not my home. My home is in heaven. Like Daniel, I am a foreigner in a strange place. The wholesome language I speak is uncommon here. The Christian literature I’m familiar with is abnormal. It’s imperative that I adapt to the way of life in the community where I live, work and play.
You’ve put me here to spread the Good News that Your kingdom is available to everyone who believes. I can only do that by earning the trust and respect of those around me. Please give me the desire to be like Daniel. I need to go beyond the pleasant walls and protection of my church and immerse myself in a corrupted culture. Clinging to my faith and trusting in Your power, I’ll infiltrate people with the truth about You in words they’ll understand. By developing meaningful relationships and clear communication, I’ll build bridges for them to enter the kingdom of heaven.
Please dear Lord, give me a courageous heart and determined mind to follow You beyond my perceived limits. Give me extraordinary wisdom and knowledge to fluently speak to those who differ from me. Use me to connect my community to Your glorious kingdom for the praise of Your name. Amen.
You don’t have to go to another land to learn a new language. Study the current culture in your community. You’ll probably discover that people don’t speak or act like you. In order to serve them for God, you need to know their values and traditions.
Dare to be a Daniel by building bridges with non-believers. Ask God to give you the wisdom, knowledge and courage of Daniel to boldly live out your life in your neighborhood. Find a non-church related group and begin interacting with them.
Monday, April 30, 2007
Friday, April 27, 2007
ABC's of Thanksgiving
Give thanks to the Lord for He is good!
Psalm 107:1
Adopting and accepting me
Blessing me with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms
Choosing me and Crowning me with Compassion
Delivering me from all my fears and filling me with Divine power
Eternal life and Everlasting love
Forgiving and Forgetting all my sins, Freeing me from Satan’s snare, and Your Forever Faithfulness
Grace, grace, and more grace
Healing all my hurts and Hiding Your Word in my heart
Infinite mercy
Justifying me and filling my heart with the Joy of Jesus
Kindness
Lifting me out of the deep, dark, dirty pit and bringing me into the Light
Making me uniquely, fearfully, and wonderfully
Never abandoning me
Ordaining all my days before one of them came to be
Peace, Patience, Protection, Your Prosperous Presence, and Praying for me
Quieting my soul
Redeeming me, making me Righteous, and Reserving a Room in heaven for me
Satisfying my desires with good things, Saving me from death and destruction, and Setting me feet on Solid ground, Sending Your Spirit to live with me
Teaching me by Your Holy Spirit
Uniting me with Christ and other believers
Victory in Jesus
Washing me whiter than snow and Watching over me
eXtravagantly loving me
Your Holy Word spoken to me
Zipping my heart with zeal
Adopting and accepting me
Blessing me with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms
Choosing me and Crowning me with Compassion
Delivering me from all my fears and filling me with Divine power
Eternal life and Everlasting love
Forgiving and Forgetting all my sins, Freeing me from Satan’s snare, and Your Forever Faithfulness
Grace, grace, and more grace
Healing all my hurts and Hiding Your Word in my heart
Infinite mercy
Justifying me and filling my heart with the Joy of Jesus
Kindness
Lifting me out of the deep, dark, dirty pit and bringing me into the Light
Making me uniquely, fearfully, and wonderfully
Never abandoning me
Ordaining all my days before one of them came to be
Peace, Patience, Protection, Your Prosperous Presence, and Praying for me
Quieting my soul
Redeeming me, making me Righteous, and Reserving a Room in heaven for me
Satisfying my desires with good things, Saving me from death and destruction, and Setting me feet on Solid ground, Sending Your Spirit to live with me
Teaching me by Your Holy Spirit
Uniting me with Christ and other believers
Victory in Jesus
Washing me whiter than snow and Watching over me
eXtravagantly loving me
Your Holy Word spoken to me
Zipping my heart with zeal
What are you thankful for? Prepare your heart for worship this weekend by making your own thanksgiving list.
Thursday, April 26, 2007
Jesus' Food
John 4:34
"My food," said Jesus, "is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work.”
Sovereign King of the Smorgasbord-
Forgive me for craving the wrong things! I think more about nourishing my body than my soul. Please fill me with so much of Jesus that I will desire nothing more. There is an endless line of hungry people right behind me if only I’d open my eyes and notice!
People are starving for something more! I’ve been indulging in the never-ending feast of Bread and Water without consideration of the destitute and diseased following me. They will perish without proper nourishment.
Empower me to do Your will and share the Bread of Life and Living Water, my Sweet Jesus, with the hordes of hungry and throngs of thirsty begging for something better. Let me serve them passionately, persistently, and pleasantly, making it my personal business. Its hard work but the wages and benefits are eternal. No other employer offers an eternal life insurance policy. No other business in town offers forgiveness, redemption, and healing. No other place serves all-you-can-eat love and compassion. Only at the Savior’s Smorgasbord will people eat and be satisfied.
The hours are limited, closing time is near. I must urgently accomplish the mandatory mission to feed the multitudes by giving them Jesus. Open my eyes to see discouraged, dissatisfied, and disgusted individuals:
Ravished for redemption, riches and relationships
Famished for forgiveness, friends and fellowship
Starved for salvation, security and sympathy
Hungry for healing, honor, and a hero
Longing for love, life and laughter
I will immediately bring them to Your Smorgasbord where they can gorge themselves with grace and be satisfied with the name of Jesus. Amen.
There’s a starving society surrounding you! You’ve been given a mission – to do the will of Jesus, feed them. Will you obey?
"My food," said Jesus, "is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work.”
Sovereign King of the Smorgasbord-
Forgive me for craving the wrong things! I think more about nourishing my body than my soul. Please fill me with so much of Jesus that I will desire nothing more. There is an endless line of hungry people right behind me if only I’d open my eyes and notice!
People are starving for something more! I’ve been indulging in the never-ending feast of Bread and Water without consideration of the destitute and diseased following me. They will perish without proper nourishment.
Empower me to do Your will and share the Bread of Life and Living Water, my Sweet Jesus, with the hordes of hungry and throngs of thirsty begging for something better. Let me serve them passionately, persistently, and pleasantly, making it my personal business. Its hard work but the wages and benefits are eternal. No other employer offers an eternal life insurance policy. No other business in town offers forgiveness, redemption, and healing. No other place serves all-you-can-eat love and compassion. Only at the Savior’s Smorgasbord will people eat and be satisfied.
The hours are limited, closing time is near. I must urgently accomplish the mandatory mission to feed the multitudes by giving them Jesus. Open my eyes to see discouraged, dissatisfied, and disgusted individuals:
Ravished for redemption, riches and relationships
Famished for forgiveness, friends and fellowship
Starved for salvation, security and sympathy
Hungry for healing, honor, and a hero
Longing for love, life and laughter
I will immediately bring them to Your Smorgasbord where they can gorge themselves with grace and be satisfied with the name of Jesus. Amen.
There’s a starving society surrounding you! You’ve been given a mission – to do the will of Jesus, feed them. Will you obey?
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Imitating Jesus
John 14:12
Jesus said, “I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing.”
Matthew 9:35-36
Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness. When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.
Jesus, You are the King of Compassion!
If I follow You, I can easily see what You have been doing. The problem is I’m prone to wandering. Distracted by my own agenda, my mind is so focused on finishing my mission that I’m oblivious to the multitudes surrounding me. Forgive me for my lack of compassion! Open my eyes to see the lost souls entangled in the rush of life. Give me a sensitive spirit to stop and set them free. You’re not asking me to sell church. You’re asking me to:
Teach them by the example of my peaceful lifestyle what it means to know the Shepherd and be sheltered in the safety of His arms.
Preach the Good News by telling them the story of how You rescued me from Satan’s snare and brought me to the safety of the sheepfold.
Nurse their wounds caused by the disease of despair and sickness of sin.
Please give me a heart like Yours to teach, preach, and heal. Please fill me with fresh faith and Holy Spirit power to notice the harassed and helpless hordes crying for release. I will follow You and do the things I see You doing to bring glory and honor to Your name. Amen.
Ask God to put the name of one lost sheep on your heart and in your mind today. Begin to pray specifically for their release.
Jesus said, “I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing.”
Matthew 9:35-36
Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness. When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.
Jesus, You are the King of Compassion!
If I follow You, I can easily see what You have been doing. The problem is I’m prone to wandering. Distracted by my own agenda, my mind is so focused on finishing my mission that I’m oblivious to the multitudes surrounding me. Forgive me for my lack of compassion! Open my eyes to see the lost souls entangled in the rush of life. Give me a sensitive spirit to stop and set them free. You’re not asking me to sell church. You’re asking me to:
Teach them by the example of my peaceful lifestyle what it means to know the Shepherd and be sheltered in the safety of His arms.
Preach the Good News by telling them the story of how You rescued me from Satan’s snare and brought me to the safety of the sheepfold.
Nurse their wounds caused by the disease of despair and sickness of sin.
Please give me a heart like Yours to teach, preach, and heal. Please fill me with fresh faith and Holy Spirit power to notice the harassed and helpless hordes crying for release. I will follow You and do the things I see You doing to bring glory and honor to Your name. Amen.
Ask God to put the name of one lost sheep on your heart and in your mind today. Begin to pray specifically for their release.
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
Believe, Ask and Obey
John 14:12-18
Jesus said, “I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.
"If you love me, you will obey what I command. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever— the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you. I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.”
Truthful King~
I can hardly believe my ears! You promise that I will do even greater things than You did! That’s an overwhelming oath. I will go places Your feet never went. I will claim new territory for Your kingdom, captivating people for You. Along the way I will witness unbelievable miracles. How can that be? I am merely human. You are God and You are everywhere!
I’m thankful that You lay out the plan for me:
1. Believe what You say is true
2. Ask in Your name
3. Obey
Working in Your power, with the Counselor, Comforter, and Helper living in my heart, I will have the strength to impact my community, country, and world.
This sounds like a simple strategy. My Spirit is willing, but my flesh is weak. Please dear Lord, give me more faith to believe Your promise. I want nothing more than to be absolutely committed to You and the work of building Your kingdom. With all my heart I desire to accomplish great things for You in the power of Your mighty name. Amen.
Are you willing to follow God’s 3-step plan to bring lost and lonely people to His kingdom? Do you believe God? Do you love him enough to obey?
Jesus said, “I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.
"If you love me, you will obey what I command. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever— the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you. I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.”
Truthful King~
I can hardly believe my ears! You promise that I will do even greater things than You did! That’s an overwhelming oath. I will go places Your feet never went. I will claim new territory for Your kingdom, captivating people for You. Along the way I will witness unbelievable miracles. How can that be? I am merely human. You are God and You are everywhere!
I’m thankful that You lay out the plan for me:
1. Believe what You say is true
2. Ask in Your name
3. Obey
Working in Your power, with the Counselor, Comforter, and Helper living in my heart, I will have the strength to impact my community, country, and world.
This sounds like a simple strategy. My Spirit is willing, but my flesh is weak. Please dear Lord, give me more faith to believe Your promise. I want nothing more than to be absolutely committed to You and the work of building Your kingdom. With all my heart I desire to accomplish great things for You in the power of Your mighty name. Amen.
Are you willing to follow God’s 3-step plan to bring lost and lonely people to His kingdom? Do you believe God? Do you love him enough to obey?
Monday, April 23, 2007
Build Up Faith
Jude 1:20-28
Dear friends, build yourselves up in your most holy faith and pray in the Holy Spirit. Keep yourselves in God's love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life.
Be merciful to those who doubt; snatch others from the fire and save them; to others show mercy, mixed with fear—hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh.
To him who is able to keep you from falling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy— to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen.
Blessed Lord,
You teach us exactly how to live a life devoted to You in preparation for the future when we’ll live with You forever in Paradise.
We should begin building ourselves up in our “most holy faith,” by opening our Bibles, Your Holy Word spoken to us. Through it, You entrust us with Your priceless treasury of promises. We build an incredible fortune when we believe and obey Your costly commands. Safeguarding the invaluable Truth in our hearts will change us profoundly, pervasively, and permanently into Your holy likeness.
In addition to opening our Bibles, we are to pray in the Holy Spirit. We should confidently come to You, just as we are, broken, weak and poor. Speechless, because of pounding pain or overwhelming joy, You’ll translate our inarticulate sighs. When we don’t know what to pray, You’ll do it for us. Blessed assurance!
We should surround ourselves with Your love. In the shelter of Your strong arms, You’ll protect, prosper and prepare us. We’ll be closest to You every time we open our Bibles, pray, and hang out with other believers.
Encased in Your extravagant love, we need to witness to the world by telling our life changing stories to everyone. We need to patiently persevere with those who hesitate to believe us, get down to business rescuing those who are on the road to destruction, and show loving kindness to those who are corrupt and callous without becoming like them. We must trust You to protect us by Your constant presence and power.
Lord, let me take these lessons seriously, putting my most holy faith into action while I wait to live happily ever after in Your magnificent kingdom. All glory to You, O God, who can keep me from stumbling. I rejoice that I can stand tall in Your luminous presence, holy and pure because of Jesus my Savior who alone is worthy of glory, majesty, and power from now until the end of time. Amen.
God’s Word tells us exactly how to prepare for the future.
Build up your faith
Pray in the Holy Spirit
Surround yourself with His love
Witness to the world
Do you believe Him? What one thing will do differently today to prepare for tomorrow?
Dear friends, build yourselves up in your most holy faith and pray in the Holy Spirit. Keep yourselves in God's love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life.
Be merciful to those who doubt; snatch others from the fire and save them; to others show mercy, mixed with fear—hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh.
To him who is able to keep you from falling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy— to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen.
Blessed Lord,
You teach us exactly how to live a life devoted to You in preparation for the future when we’ll live with You forever in Paradise.
We should begin building ourselves up in our “most holy faith,” by opening our Bibles, Your Holy Word spoken to us. Through it, You entrust us with Your priceless treasury of promises. We build an incredible fortune when we believe and obey Your costly commands. Safeguarding the invaluable Truth in our hearts will change us profoundly, pervasively, and permanently into Your holy likeness.
In addition to opening our Bibles, we are to pray in the Holy Spirit. We should confidently come to You, just as we are, broken, weak and poor. Speechless, because of pounding pain or overwhelming joy, You’ll translate our inarticulate sighs. When we don’t know what to pray, You’ll do it for us. Blessed assurance!
We should surround ourselves with Your love. In the shelter of Your strong arms, You’ll protect, prosper and prepare us. We’ll be closest to You every time we open our Bibles, pray, and hang out with other believers.
Encased in Your extravagant love, we need to witness to the world by telling our life changing stories to everyone. We need to patiently persevere with those who hesitate to believe us, get down to business rescuing those who are on the road to destruction, and show loving kindness to those who are corrupt and callous without becoming like them. We must trust You to protect us by Your constant presence and power.
Lord, let me take these lessons seriously, putting my most holy faith into action while I wait to live happily ever after in Your magnificent kingdom. All glory to You, O God, who can keep me from stumbling. I rejoice that I can stand tall in Your luminous presence, holy and pure because of Jesus my Savior who alone is worthy of glory, majesty, and power from now until the end of time. Amen.
God’s Word tells us exactly how to prepare for the future.
Build up your faith
Pray in the Holy Spirit
Surround yourself with His love
Witness to the world
Do you believe Him? What one thing will do differently today to prepare for tomorrow?
Friday, April 20, 2007
A Song of Praise For My King
Ascribe to the Lord glory and strength.
Ascribe to the Lord the glory due His name.
Bless the Lord, O my soul.
All that is within me bless His holy name.
Come let us adore Him!
Call on His name!
Declare His glory throughout the whole earth.
Tell the whole world of his wonderful works.
Enter His gates with thanksgiving.
Extol Him for His excellent greatness!
Forget not all His benefits.
He faithfully forgives and forgets all our sins.
Great is the Lord and worthy of praise.
Glory in His holy name.
Holy! Holy! Holy is the Lord Almighty!
Who was and is and is to come.
I will sing praise to my great God and King.
I will sing and make music in my heart.
Joyful, Joyful I adore You,
God of Glory, Lord of Love.
Know that the Lord is God.
It is He who made us, and we are His.
Let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice.
Let the heavens rejoice, let the whole earth be glad;
Let everyone say, “The Lord reigns!”
Maker of heaven and earth –
Splendor and majesty are before Him,
Strength and glory are in His sanctuary.
Not to me O Lord, not to me,
But to Your name be the glory because of You love and faithfulness.
Our God is a God who saves!
O Lord My God, how Great thou art!
Praise be to the Lord;
To God our Savior who daily bears our burdens.
Quickly, I’ll tell the Good News.
My Lord lives and rules and reigns from heaven on high.
Rejoice in the Lord, you who are righteous.
Remember the wonders He has done.
Shout for joy to the Lord all the earth!
Shout for joy before the Lord , the King.
To Him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb,
Be praise and honor and glory and power forever and ever.
Unto You I sing, O Lord;
The One who rides across the ancient heavens,
Whose mighty voice thunders from the sky.
God is awesome in His sanctuary.
Victory is Yours, O Lord.
You have made me glad with the joy of Your presence.
Worthy is the Lamb who was slain,
To receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength,
And glory and honor and praise.
Exalt the Lord our God and worship at His holy mountain.
Be exalted, O Lord in Your strength;
We will sing and praise Your might.
Your faithfulness reaches to the skies.
You are my God and I will give You thanks forever and ever.
Zion hears and rejoices!
For You O Lord, are the Most High over all the earth,
You are exalted far above the gods.
A Song of Praise For My King was written by reading the Psalms and making a list from A-Z of various ways the psalmist praised the Lord. It follows the pattern of the psalmist in Psalm 119 where each of 22 sections begins with a different letter of the Hebrew alphabet. Try writing your own song of praise and adoration. I can guarantee it will put a smile on your face, a song in your heart and a spring in your step!
Ascribe to the Lord the glory due His name.
Bless the Lord, O my soul.
All that is within me bless His holy name.
Come let us adore Him!
Call on His name!
Declare His glory throughout the whole earth.
Tell the whole world of his wonderful works.
Enter His gates with thanksgiving.
Extol Him for His excellent greatness!
Forget not all His benefits.
He faithfully forgives and forgets all our sins.
Great is the Lord and worthy of praise.
Glory in His holy name.
Holy! Holy! Holy is the Lord Almighty!
Who was and is and is to come.
I will sing praise to my great God and King.
I will sing and make music in my heart.
Joyful, Joyful I adore You,
God of Glory, Lord of Love.
Know that the Lord is God.
It is He who made us, and we are His.
Let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice.
Let the heavens rejoice, let the whole earth be glad;
Let everyone say, “The Lord reigns!”
Maker of heaven and earth –
Splendor and majesty are before Him,
Strength and glory are in His sanctuary.
Not to me O Lord, not to me,
But to Your name be the glory because of You love and faithfulness.
Our God is a God who saves!
O Lord My God, how Great thou art!
Praise be to the Lord;
To God our Savior who daily bears our burdens.
Quickly, I’ll tell the Good News.
My Lord lives and rules and reigns from heaven on high.
Rejoice in the Lord, you who are righteous.
Remember the wonders He has done.
Shout for joy to the Lord all the earth!
Shout for joy before the Lord , the King.
To Him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb,
Be praise and honor and glory and power forever and ever.
Unto You I sing, O Lord;
The One who rides across the ancient heavens,
Whose mighty voice thunders from the sky.
God is awesome in His sanctuary.
Victory is Yours, O Lord.
You have made me glad with the joy of Your presence.
Worthy is the Lamb who was slain,
To receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength,
And glory and honor and praise.
Exalt the Lord our God and worship at His holy mountain.
Be exalted, O Lord in Your strength;
We will sing and praise Your might.
Your faithfulness reaches to the skies.
You are my God and I will give You thanks forever and ever.
Zion hears and rejoices!
For You O Lord, are the Most High over all the earth,
You are exalted far above the gods.
A Song of Praise For My King was written by reading the Psalms and making a list from A-Z of various ways the psalmist praised the Lord. It follows the pattern of the psalmist in Psalm 119 where each of 22 sections begins with a different letter of the Hebrew alphabet. Try writing your own song of praise and adoration. I can guarantee it will put a smile on your face, a song in your heart and a spring in your step!
Thursday, April 19, 2007
Extreme Faithfulness
As I contemplated current events not only in my community, but also in the country and world, the Lord took me to this perfect Word picture describing the world in which we live. The harsh realities are startling.
Zephaniah 3:1-5
How terrible it will be for rebellious, polluted Jerusalem, the city of violence and crime. It proudly refuses to listen even to the voice of the LORD. No one can tell it anything; it refuses all correction. It does not trust in the LORD or draw near to its God.
Its leaders are like roaring lions hunting for their victims--out for everything they can get. Its judges are like ravenous wolves at evening time, who by dawn have left no trace of their prey. Its prophets are arrogant liars seeking their own gain. Its priests defile the Temple by disobeying God's laws. But the LORD is still there in the city, and he does no wrong. Day by day his justice is more evident, but no one takes notice--the wicked know no shame.
My Forever Faithful King,
You are an amazing word artist. Your illustration of ancient Israel is strikingly similar to our disgusting, corrupt and unruly world today. Violence and crime permeate the whole earth. No place is sacred, clean or safe. Rebellious self-righteous leaders refuse to acknowledge Your Highness. They won’t listen to Your wise counsel. Pompous and proud, they ignore You.
Like rapacious lions waiting to pounce the most vulnerable prey, leaders are using their influential positions to pad their pockets while plundering the poor. Judges behave like voracious wolves ready to rip apart Your Sacred Laws like a fresh carcass, leaving barely a trace of Your divinity. Everywhere false prophets are twisting the truth, attempting to capitalize on their sweet sounding lies. It’s difficult to know who to trust. Even our preachers desecrate Your Sanctuary by using Your Holy Word as a weapon to maim and kill souls.
Lord, I just want to cry when I think about the mess we’ve made of Your beautiful land! We accuse You of failing to protect us when bad things happen, but in reality we haven’t heeded Your warnings. Not much has changed since the ancient days.
O Sovereign God, the one thing that makes my soul leap for joy in the midst of the current chaos and confusion is that You’re smack-dab in the middle of it with us. Man hasn’t changed and neither have You. Immersed in modern culture, You’re just as holy, righteous and sovereign as You were in the Beginning. You’ve never made a mistake and You’ve never failed. Consistently, day after day, for thousands of Years, You’ve patiently and lovingly pardoned countless people, saving them from death and destruction. Yet, wicked men and women without conscience or shame persist in evil. O Lord, how much longer will You tolerate us?
Please give me a deeper desire to walk humbly with You. Quiet my raging soul so that I’ll hear Your sweet voice rejoicing when I choose to do what is right in this counter-Christian culture. Until You bring me home, Lord, make me an everlasting witness of Your amazing love and extravagant grace to a wicked watching world because of Jesus. Amen.
If the eyes of your heart have been opened to the harsh realities of the world in which we live through the prophet Zephaniah, I challenge you to live differently. How will you practice godly living in a counter-Christian culture?
Zephaniah 3:1-5
How terrible it will be for rebellious, polluted Jerusalem, the city of violence and crime. It proudly refuses to listen even to the voice of the LORD. No one can tell it anything; it refuses all correction. It does not trust in the LORD or draw near to its God.
Its leaders are like roaring lions hunting for their victims--out for everything they can get. Its judges are like ravenous wolves at evening time, who by dawn have left no trace of their prey. Its prophets are arrogant liars seeking their own gain. Its priests defile the Temple by disobeying God's laws. But the LORD is still there in the city, and he does no wrong. Day by day his justice is more evident, but no one takes notice--the wicked know no shame.
My Forever Faithful King,
You are an amazing word artist. Your illustration of ancient Israel is strikingly similar to our disgusting, corrupt and unruly world today. Violence and crime permeate the whole earth. No place is sacred, clean or safe. Rebellious self-righteous leaders refuse to acknowledge Your Highness. They won’t listen to Your wise counsel. Pompous and proud, they ignore You.
Like rapacious lions waiting to pounce the most vulnerable prey, leaders are using their influential positions to pad their pockets while plundering the poor. Judges behave like voracious wolves ready to rip apart Your Sacred Laws like a fresh carcass, leaving barely a trace of Your divinity. Everywhere false prophets are twisting the truth, attempting to capitalize on their sweet sounding lies. It’s difficult to know who to trust. Even our preachers desecrate Your Sanctuary by using Your Holy Word as a weapon to maim and kill souls.
Lord, I just want to cry when I think about the mess we’ve made of Your beautiful land! We accuse You of failing to protect us when bad things happen, but in reality we haven’t heeded Your warnings. Not much has changed since the ancient days.
O Sovereign God, the one thing that makes my soul leap for joy in the midst of the current chaos and confusion is that You’re smack-dab in the middle of it with us. Man hasn’t changed and neither have You. Immersed in modern culture, You’re just as holy, righteous and sovereign as You were in the Beginning. You’ve never made a mistake and You’ve never failed. Consistently, day after day, for thousands of Years, You’ve patiently and lovingly pardoned countless people, saving them from death and destruction. Yet, wicked men and women without conscience or shame persist in evil. O Lord, how much longer will You tolerate us?
Please give me a deeper desire to walk humbly with You. Quiet my raging soul so that I’ll hear Your sweet voice rejoicing when I choose to do what is right in this counter-Christian culture. Until You bring me home, Lord, make me an everlasting witness of Your amazing love and extravagant grace to a wicked watching world because of Jesus. Amen.
If the eyes of your heart have been opened to the harsh realities of the world in which we live through the prophet Zephaniah, I challenge you to live differently. How will you practice godly living in a counter-Christian culture?
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
Citizens of Heaven
Philippians 1: 27
Above all, you must live as citizens of heaven, conducting yourselves in a manner worthy of the Good News about Christ.
Jesus, You are the Perfect Pattern for godly living. As much as humanly possible, I long to model my life after Yours.
Help me to understand and obey the rules of Your magnificent heavenly kingdom that are clearly posted on the pages of my Bible. Do not let me wander away from Your Word. I want to reflect Your beauty in everything I say and do. In the laboratory of love, show me any aspect or activity in my life that will tarnish Your image. Concentrating on You, I’ll accept Your gentle instruction, allowing You to polish me.
With Your Words, in all their richness, alive in me, I’ll conduct myself in a manner that accurately represents the kingdom of heaven on earth. Love and patience will show my strong faith. Peace will reign in my heart. Praise and thanksgiving will always be on my lips. My kindness and humility will give others an honest impression of You.
Please send godly people into my life so that I can see Your principles in practice and apply them to my own life. Seeing others imitating You will help me to grow in Your likeness. Hearing them tell about Your work in their lives will inspire me to persevere. As I study Your Word and watch others, I’ll become a living Bible, persuading and motivating others to bring glory, honor and fame to You. Amen.
What impression do people have of Christ when they see or talk with you? What changes do you need to make in your life to honor Him?
As Christians, we are to represent Christ. When those around us say, “I didn’t know you were a Christian,” we have failed to represent him as we should. We are not merely Christ followers; we are His representatives to others.
2 Corinthians 5:20 We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors.
Above all, you must live as citizens of heaven, conducting yourselves in a manner worthy of the Good News about Christ.
Jesus, You are the Perfect Pattern for godly living. As much as humanly possible, I long to model my life after Yours.
Help me to understand and obey the rules of Your magnificent heavenly kingdom that are clearly posted on the pages of my Bible. Do not let me wander away from Your Word. I want to reflect Your beauty in everything I say and do. In the laboratory of love, show me any aspect or activity in my life that will tarnish Your image. Concentrating on You, I’ll accept Your gentle instruction, allowing You to polish me.
With Your Words, in all their richness, alive in me, I’ll conduct myself in a manner that accurately represents the kingdom of heaven on earth. Love and patience will show my strong faith. Peace will reign in my heart. Praise and thanksgiving will always be on my lips. My kindness and humility will give others an honest impression of You.
Please send godly people into my life so that I can see Your principles in practice and apply them to my own life. Seeing others imitating You will help me to grow in Your likeness. Hearing them tell about Your work in their lives will inspire me to persevere. As I study Your Word and watch others, I’ll become a living Bible, persuading and motivating others to bring glory, honor and fame to You. Amen.
What impression do people have of Christ when they see or talk with you? What changes do you need to make in your life to honor Him?
As Christians, we are to represent Christ. When those around us say, “I didn’t know you were a Christian,” we have failed to represent him as we should. We are not merely Christ followers; we are His representatives to others.
2 Corinthians 5:20 We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors.
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
Showing the Way
Colossians 4:5-6
Live wisely among those who are not Christians, and make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be gracious and effective so that you will have the right answer for everyone. NLT
Holy God~
I praise You for showing me the Way to eternal life. I now have the responsibility to show others the Way. When You brought the message to me it was not only with words but also with all-consuming power. Assure of who You are and the great distance You went to rescue me from death and decay, I’ll confidently point others in the right direction by my attitudes and actions.
Everything I do and say is a witness for or against You. People every where are watching me, waiting to see my response to difficult people and tricky situations. Before I go out of the house each day, please dress me in compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Clothe me with an even-temper and quickness to forgive. Never allow me to leave home without wearing LOVE or tucking peace in the pocket of my heart.
Walking hand-in-hand with my brothers and sisters, I’ll appreciate the family You’ve given me. I’ll praise, encourage, and respect them. Open my mind to Your Holy Word spoken to me through older and wiser siblings. Listening to their real life experiences will help me make sensible choices.
I want to make the most of every opportunity to be a witness for You. People will die today without knowing the Way to living happily ever after. I have the answer that will save them from death and destruction. You are the One and Only Way. Please give me courage to exercise Your all-consuming power that’s within me to share Your love with a lost soul today. Because You have shown me true love, I will graciously, tenderly, and effectively show it to others through my words and conduct for the sake of our glorious family name. Amen.
Do your words and conduct truly represent our Christian family name? People are watching us, waiting to see how we’ll react to situations. Pay attention to how you respond to situations today. It is your witness to a watching world. Will anyone see Jesus in you? What will you do to live wisely, making the most of every opportunity to represent the Kingdom of Heaven on earth today?
Live wisely among those who are not Christians, and make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be gracious and effective so that you will have the right answer for everyone. NLT
Holy God~
I praise You for showing me the Way to eternal life. I now have the responsibility to show others the Way. When You brought the message to me it was not only with words but also with all-consuming power. Assure of who You are and the great distance You went to rescue me from death and decay, I’ll confidently point others in the right direction by my attitudes and actions.
Everything I do and say is a witness for or against You. People every where are watching me, waiting to see my response to difficult people and tricky situations. Before I go out of the house each day, please dress me in compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Clothe me with an even-temper and quickness to forgive. Never allow me to leave home without wearing LOVE or tucking peace in the pocket of my heart.
Walking hand-in-hand with my brothers and sisters, I’ll appreciate the family You’ve given me. I’ll praise, encourage, and respect them. Open my mind to Your Holy Word spoken to me through older and wiser siblings. Listening to their real life experiences will help me make sensible choices.
I want to make the most of every opportunity to be a witness for You. People will die today without knowing the Way to living happily ever after. I have the answer that will save them from death and destruction. You are the One and Only Way. Please give me courage to exercise Your all-consuming power that’s within me to share Your love with a lost soul today. Because You have shown me true love, I will graciously, tenderly, and effectively show it to others through my words and conduct for the sake of our glorious family name. Amen.
Do your words and conduct truly represent our Christian family name? People are watching us, waiting to see how we’ll react to situations. Pay attention to how you respond to situations today. It is your witness to a watching world. Will anyone see Jesus in you? What will you do to live wisely, making the most of every opportunity to represent the Kingdom of Heaven on earth today?
Monday, April 16, 2007
Light Me On Fire
Acts 2:3-4
They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit
Holy Spirit, Light the match and breathe on me! Set me on fire! Brand me with Your signature so that I’m Yours alone! I want to be a Christian in my heart, blazing with the zeal of Your love. With intense heat, burn away anything that isn’t of You. Turn my stubborn will to soot. Melt my cold, hard heart until it glistens with righteousness. Then, teach me with tongues of living flames what You would have me do.
Ignite me with divine power. Make me spiritually combustible today! Exploding with love, I’ll be tenderhearted and merciful. Bursting with joy for my salvation, I’ll glow brilliantly for You. Blast away my sin, so that I crackle with kindness. Fully ablaze, I will not live for myself. Consumed by Your love, I’ll live to please only You. May people recognize me on the outside by Your flickering flame that’s burning in my heart. Lord, let Your righteousness shine through and be glorified in me today for Your name sake. Amen.
If you are a believer God has branded His seal on your heart (Eph 2:9). What do people see when they look at you? What do they see in your actions? Do they match the seal of God’s love burned on your heart? If not, I encourage you to pray and ask the Holy Spirit to ignite a fire in your heart so that others will see Jesus when they encounter you.
They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit
Holy Spirit, Light the match and breathe on me! Set me on fire! Brand me with Your signature so that I’m Yours alone! I want to be a Christian in my heart, blazing with the zeal of Your love. With intense heat, burn away anything that isn’t of You. Turn my stubborn will to soot. Melt my cold, hard heart until it glistens with righteousness. Then, teach me with tongues of living flames what You would have me do.
Ignite me with divine power. Make me spiritually combustible today! Exploding with love, I’ll be tenderhearted and merciful. Bursting with joy for my salvation, I’ll glow brilliantly for You. Blast away my sin, so that I crackle with kindness. Fully ablaze, I will not live for myself. Consumed by Your love, I’ll live to please only You. May people recognize me on the outside by Your flickering flame that’s burning in my heart. Lord, let Your righteousness shine through and be glorified in me today for Your name sake. Amen.
If you are a believer God has branded His seal on your heart (Eph 2:9). What do people see when they look at you? What do they see in your actions? Do they match the seal of God’s love burned on your heart? If not, I encourage you to pray and ask the Holy Spirit to ignite a fire in your heart so that others will see Jesus when they encounter you.
Friday, April 13, 2007
Mandatory Mission
Matthew 28: 16-20
Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."
Lord of the Universe,
I ascend the Most High and Holy Mountain to the Pinnacle of Your Presence. Bowing down in awe of Your majesty, I worship and adore You in the beauty of holiness. You are the One and Only True and Living God. Raised from the dead, You are Ruler of heaven and earth! All authority belongs to You! Your power is vast and victorious. I never want to doubt that “My God Reigns!”
You are the King supremely seated on the throne of my heart. I submit my whole life to Your final costly command. Clearly, Your parting Words commission me to GO to every community in every country telling people of every culture to repent and believe in You for the forgiveness of sins and eternal life. Proclaiming the Good News, I’ll persuade people everywhere to pursue You. Practicing extravagant love, I’ll teach them by example to obey You.
Please fill me with Holy Spirit power to GO with brave boldness. Open my eyes to see all the sick, sad souls surrounding me. Open my ears to hear the sound of people marching to hell. Give me a sensitive spirit to stop and share the Only Way to eternal life. It’s not optional. It’s a mandatory mission from the One I call King, Lord and Master. To disobey would be disrespectful insubordination!
I claim the powerful promise that accompanies this great commission. You pledge to be with me all the days of my life. You will never ever leave me! Since I can’t fathom the thought of anyone spending eternity with Satan, I’ll courageously and confidently conquer my fears and GO as You command. One day every tongue will confess You are God, one day every knee will bow to the glory of Your Most High and Holy Name. I exalt You, O Lord, above the heavens. Let Your glory be over all the earth! Alleluia! Amen.
Do you believe the One who rules the universe? Do you acknowledge Him as your King, Lord, and Master? If so, you’ve been given a mandatory mission to spread the Good News: Our God Reigns! It’s as easy as ABC.
A = Admit you are a sinner
B = Believe Jesus died for your sins
C = Commit your life to Him
Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."
Lord of the Universe,
I ascend the Most High and Holy Mountain to the Pinnacle of Your Presence. Bowing down in awe of Your majesty, I worship and adore You in the beauty of holiness. You are the One and Only True and Living God. Raised from the dead, You are Ruler of heaven and earth! All authority belongs to You! Your power is vast and victorious. I never want to doubt that “My God Reigns!”
You are the King supremely seated on the throne of my heart. I submit my whole life to Your final costly command. Clearly, Your parting Words commission me to GO to every community in every country telling people of every culture to repent and believe in You for the forgiveness of sins and eternal life. Proclaiming the Good News, I’ll persuade people everywhere to pursue You. Practicing extravagant love, I’ll teach them by example to obey You.
Please fill me with Holy Spirit power to GO with brave boldness. Open my eyes to see all the sick, sad souls surrounding me. Open my ears to hear the sound of people marching to hell. Give me a sensitive spirit to stop and share the Only Way to eternal life. It’s not optional. It’s a mandatory mission from the One I call King, Lord and Master. To disobey would be disrespectful insubordination!
I claim the powerful promise that accompanies this great commission. You pledge to be with me all the days of my life. You will never ever leave me! Since I can’t fathom the thought of anyone spending eternity with Satan, I’ll courageously and confidently conquer my fears and GO as You command. One day every tongue will confess You are God, one day every knee will bow to the glory of Your Most High and Holy Name. I exalt You, O Lord, above the heavens. Let Your glory be over all the earth! Alleluia! Amen.
Do you believe the One who rules the universe? Do you acknowledge Him as your King, Lord, and Master? If so, you’ve been given a mandatory mission to spread the Good News: Our God Reigns! It’s as easy as ABC.
A = Admit you are a sinner
B = Believe Jesus died for your sins
C = Commit your life to Him
Thursday, April 12, 2007
Feed My Sheep
John 21: 15-19
When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me more than these?"
"Yes, Lord," he said, "you know that I love you."
Jesus said, "Feed my lambs."
Again Jesus said, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me?"
He answered, "Yes, Lord, you know that I love you."
Jesus said, "Take care of my sheep."
The third time he said to him, "Simon son of John, do you love me?"
Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, "Do you love me?" He said, "Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you."
Jesus said, "Feed my sheep. I tell you the truth, when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go." Jesus said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. Then he said to him, "Follow me!"
King of Glory!
I adore You because You are a God of second chances! Even when I fail You miserably, You redeem me, like You did Peter. O how I praise You for teaching me exactly how to test my faith.
First, I should ask myself, “Do I love You more than anyone else in my life? More than my family and friends? More than my church and my pastor? More than anyone?” I’ll show You that I love You above everyone else in my life when I take time to sit down and teach little children and new believers the stories and simple truth of the Bible.
Then, I should ask myself, “Do I love You more than anything else? More than my position, power, possessions, portfolio, plans, and pastimes?” You will know that I truly love You when I immediately put everything on hold to take care of Your sheep – those believers who have wandered from the flock and are lost, those who are entangled in the brambles of problems, pain and pressures, sickness, sorrow, and shame.
Next, I should ask, “Do I like You more than myself? More than my beauty and body, security and comfort? Am I willing to risk my life and reputation for You? Are You even my Friend?” Pondering these things makes me squirm, like Peter. Of course, Lord, You know all things and You know that I love You as much as I’m capable of loving You! I’ll demonstrate my love when I feed the starving sheep around me, mature believers, the Bread of Life, Your Word. Gladly, I’ll open my heart and home so that we can graze and grow together.
Finally, You extend to me the biggest challenge of all! Am I willing to endure the cross of submissive obedience to do Your will, even if it means suffering and hardship, and things I don’t feel like doing? O Lord, with all of my heart, I desire to seek Your will, Your Way, Your Word and Your wisdom so that I can claim the crown of victory for the glory of Your name!
Thank You, O God for teaching me these things! Now, empower me by the Holy Spirit to put my faith into practice so that in my life, Lord, You’ll be exalted and glorified. Amen.
Jesus was instructing Peter how to guard against neglect. He was saying, in essence, “I want you to forget about your failures and how far you drifted from me. You’ve come back to me now. I’ve forgiven, forgotten and fixed you. So, it’s time to get your focus off your doubts, fears, failures, and problems. And the way to do that is to minister to the needs of my people. As my Father sent me, I’m sending you.”
Is there a new believer or child in your life? Take time, sit down and talk to them about Jesus. Tell them the stories and simple truth.
Identify one hurting believer in your flock and tend to their needs immediately.
Spend time fellowshipping with other believers, but don’t just go for the grub, share what He’s given you.
When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me more than these?"
"Yes, Lord," he said, "you know that I love you."
Jesus said, "Feed my lambs."
Again Jesus said, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me?"
He answered, "Yes, Lord, you know that I love you."
Jesus said, "Take care of my sheep."
The third time he said to him, "Simon son of John, do you love me?"
Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, "Do you love me?" He said, "Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you."
Jesus said, "Feed my sheep. I tell you the truth, when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go." Jesus said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. Then he said to him, "Follow me!"
King of Glory!
I adore You because You are a God of second chances! Even when I fail You miserably, You redeem me, like You did Peter. O how I praise You for teaching me exactly how to test my faith.
First, I should ask myself, “Do I love You more than anyone else in my life? More than my family and friends? More than my church and my pastor? More than anyone?” I’ll show You that I love You above everyone else in my life when I take time to sit down and teach little children and new believers the stories and simple truth of the Bible.
Then, I should ask myself, “Do I love You more than anything else? More than my position, power, possessions, portfolio, plans, and pastimes?” You will know that I truly love You when I immediately put everything on hold to take care of Your sheep – those believers who have wandered from the flock and are lost, those who are entangled in the brambles of problems, pain and pressures, sickness, sorrow, and shame.
Next, I should ask, “Do I like You more than myself? More than my beauty and body, security and comfort? Am I willing to risk my life and reputation for You? Are You even my Friend?” Pondering these things makes me squirm, like Peter. Of course, Lord, You know all things and You know that I love You as much as I’m capable of loving You! I’ll demonstrate my love when I feed the starving sheep around me, mature believers, the Bread of Life, Your Word. Gladly, I’ll open my heart and home so that we can graze and grow together.
Finally, You extend to me the biggest challenge of all! Am I willing to endure the cross of submissive obedience to do Your will, even if it means suffering and hardship, and things I don’t feel like doing? O Lord, with all of my heart, I desire to seek Your will, Your Way, Your Word and Your wisdom so that I can claim the crown of victory for the glory of Your name!
Thank You, O God for teaching me these things! Now, empower me by the Holy Spirit to put my faith into practice so that in my life, Lord, You’ll be exalted and glorified. Amen.
Jesus was instructing Peter how to guard against neglect. He was saying, in essence, “I want you to forget about your failures and how far you drifted from me. You’ve come back to me now. I’ve forgiven, forgotten and fixed you. So, it’s time to get your focus off your doubts, fears, failures, and problems. And the way to do that is to minister to the needs of my people. As my Father sent me, I’m sending you.”
Is there a new believer or child in your life? Take time, sit down and talk to them about Jesus. Tell them the stories and simple truth.
Identify one hurting believer in your flock and tend to their needs immediately.
Spend time fellowshipping with other believers, but don’t just go for the grub, share what He’s given you.
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
It is the Lord
John 21: 1- 7, 12
Afterward Jesus appeared again to his disciples, by the Sea of Tiberias. It happened this way: Simon Peter, Thomas (called Didymus), Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two other disciples were together. "I'm going out to fish," Simon Peter told them, and they said, "We'll go with you." So they went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing.
Early in the morning, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples did not realize that it was Jesus.
He called out to them, "Friends, haven't you any fish?"
"No," they answered.
He said, "Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some." When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish.
Then the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, "It is the Lord!"
None of the disciples dared ask him, "Who are you?" They knew it was the Lord.
Jesus, You are the Lord, the great I AM, who is always with me. On bright days, Your presence warms my heart. On deep, dark days filled with discouragement and disappointment You are just as present. On days of despair when all hope is gone and the net of my heart is empty, my vision is distorted by tear soaked eyes. I can’t recognize You standing right in front of me. I can’t hear Your voice. Are You there?
Please open my eyes to see while others just stand still staring. Open my mind to perceive while others parade around pondering. Many will watch, but I want to see, hear, and believe. Give me crystal clear vision to recognize You! I long to know You more dearly so that I can see You more clearly. When You affectionately call me I want to know Your voice. I need to hear You say, “Friend, haven’t you any hope?” Then I need faith to follow Your simple command to toss the empty net of my heart into the sea of blessings. You will fill it beyond my wildest imagination and exceed my immediate need! I’ll jubilantly shout, “It is the Lord!” and others will notice You because of my faith.
Please dear Lord, take my desperate dilemma and turn it into innumerous blessings for Your glorious name. Give me eyes to see, ears to hear, and faith to believe. Amen.
What is your hopeless situation? Do you see the Lord standing in front of you? He’s there if you look beyond the tears. He’s calling, “Friend, haven’t you any hope?” Tell him today that you want to know Him more dearly so that you can clearly see Him, hear Him, and believe Him when your heart is empty.
Afterward Jesus appeared again to his disciples, by the Sea of Tiberias. It happened this way: Simon Peter, Thomas (called Didymus), Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two other disciples were together. "I'm going out to fish," Simon Peter told them, and they said, "We'll go with you." So they went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing.
Early in the morning, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples did not realize that it was Jesus.
He called out to them, "Friends, haven't you any fish?"
"No," they answered.
He said, "Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some." When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish.
Then the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, "It is the Lord!"
None of the disciples dared ask him, "Who are you?" They knew it was the Lord.
Jesus, You are the Lord, the great I AM, who is always with me. On bright days, Your presence warms my heart. On deep, dark days filled with discouragement and disappointment You are just as present. On days of despair when all hope is gone and the net of my heart is empty, my vision is distorted by tear soaked eyes. I can’t recognize You standing right in front of me. I can’t hear Your voice. Are You there?
Please open my eyes to see while others just stand still staring. Open my mind to perceive while others parade around pondering. Many will watch, but I want to see, hear, and believe. Give me crystal clear vision to recognize You! I long to know You more dearly so that I can see You more clearly. When You affectionately call me I want to know Your voice. I need to hear You say, “Friend, haven’t you any hope?” Then I need faith to follow Your simple command to toss the empty net of my heart into the sea of blessings. You will fill it beyond my wildest imagination and exceed my immediate need! I’ll jubilantly shout, “It is the Lord!” and others will notice You because of my faith.
Please dear Lord, take my desperate dilemma and turn it into innumerous blessings for Your glorious name. Give me eyes to see, ears to hear, and faith to believe. Amen.
What is your hopeless situation? Do you see the Lord standing in front of you? He’s there if you look beyond the tears. He’s calling, “Friend, haven’t you any hope?” Tell him today that you want to know Him more dearly so that you can clearly see Him, hear Him, and believe Him when your heart is empty.
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
Walking and Talking
Luke 24: 13-16, 28-32
That same day two of them were walking to the village Emmaus, about seven miles out of Jerusalem. They were deep in conversation, going over all these things that had happened. In the middle of their talk and questions, Jesus came up and walked along with them. But they were not able to recognize who he was.
They came to the edge of the village where they were headed. He acted as if he were going on but they pressed him: "Stay and have supper with us. It's nearly evening; the day is done." So he went in with them. And here is what happened: He sat down at the table with them. Taking the bread, he blessed and broke and gave it to them. At that moment, open-eyed, wide-eyed, they recognized him. And then he disappeared.
Back and forth they talked. "Didn't we feel on fire as he conversed with us on the road, as he opened up the Scriptures for us?"MSG
Jesus-
O how wonderful you are! You walk with me and talk with me every day. How often do I fail to recognize You in my circumstances? Heartbroken and feeling abandoned tears flow down my face as I discuss my situation with friends. I must look ridiculous when I am wallowing in self-pity while You are right beside me! Open the eyes of my heart Lord, so that I can vividly see You in my midst.
Please dear Lord, when I am down in the dumps and crying the blues give me Your lantern and compass. Give me Your map. Help me to find the way to the sacred mountain, to Your presence. There, I will enter the place of worship and SEE my exuberant and magnificent God right in the middle of my hopeless situation! I will gaze into Your eyes and praise Your holy name. You will turn my frown into a smile.
Every day You talk to me like a friend through prayer and Bible study. You set my heart on fire. There’s nothing more thrilling than Your voice. It stirs up warmth in the hollow of my heart. Help me to BELIEVE You when You speak to me. Help me to live in absolute expectancy, trusting You to do what You say You will do. Lord, You have captivated my heart! Please ignite others with the flame of this Holy Spirit wild fire burning within me. I want more than the blessing of my daily bread! I want ALL of YOU, JESUS! Amen.
Do you see Jesus in the middle of your hopeless situation?
That same day two of them were walking to the village Emmaus, about seven miles out of Jerusalem. They were deep in conversation, going over all these things that had happened. In the middle of their talk and questions, Jesus came up and walked along with them. But they were not able to recognize who he was.
They came to the edge of the village where they were headed. He acted as if he were going on but they pressed him: "Stay and have supper with us. It's nearly evening; the day is done." So he went in with them. And here is what happened: He sat down at the table with them. Taking the bread, he blessed and broke and gave it to them. At that moment, open-eyed, wide-eyed, they recognized him. And then he disappeared.
Back and forth they talked. "Didn't we feel on fire as he conversed with us on the road, as he opened up the Scriptures for us?"MSG
Jesus-
O how wonderful you are! You walk with me and talk with me every day. How often do I fail to recognize You in my circumstances? Heartbroken and feeling abandoned tears flow down my face as I discuss my situation with friends. I must look ridiculous when I am wallowing in self-pity while You are right beside me! Open the eyes of my heart Lord, so that I can vividly see You in my midst.
Please dear Lord, when I am down in the dumps and crying the blues give me Your lantern and compass. Give me Your map. Help me to find the way to the sacred mountain, to Your presence. There, I will enter the place of worship and SEE my exuberant and magnificent God right in the middle of my hopeless situation! I will gaze into Your eyes and praise Your holy name. You will turn my frown into a smile.
Every day You talk to me like a friend through prayer and Bible study. You set my heart on fire. There’s nothing more thrilling than Your voice. It stirs up warmth in the hollow of my heart. Help me to BELIEVE You when You speak to me. Help me to live in absolute expectancy, trusting You to do what You say You will do. Lord, You have captivated my heart! Please ignite others with the flame of this Holy Spirit wild fire burning within me. I want more than the blessing of my daily bread! I want ALL of YOU, JESUS! Amen.
Do you see Jesus in the middle of your hopeless situation?
Monday, April 09, 2007
Blessing of Peace
John 20: 19-22
On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you!"
After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord.
Again Jesus said, "Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you." And with that he breathed on them and said, "Receive the Holy Spirit.”
Prince of Peace,
It’s comforting to know that no door can shut out Your presence. There is no lock strong enough to keep You out! Blessed assurance! I cherish the moment when You came, stood in the living room of my heart and spoke a blessing of peace to me.
What a joy it was to see Your mighty nail-pierced hand and feel the warmth of Your amazing love. It’s the hand that was hammered to the cross to blot out my blemishes, erase my errors and fix my flaws. It’s the hand that forever changed me and gave me new life. There is precious peace in Your pardon.
I rejoice at the sight of the spear-torn flesh in Your side. From it spewed the innocent blood that made me holy, pure, and blameless in Your sight. A fountain of water flowed from Your wound to heal me of mine. Because of Your torn flesh, nothing can separate me from You – no grief, no fault, no fear. There is peace in Your presence.
Finally, You breathed on me and filled me with Your Spirit. You empowered me to go persuade people to drop their differences and pursue friendship with You. I am required to confidently and courageously tell the life-changing story of my extreme encounter with my crucified Lord. There is peace in Your power.
Please dear Lord, come, stand in the living room of my heart today. Breathe a fresh blessing of peace on me. Renew the Holy Spirit power with in me and remind me of my mandatory mission. Then, I will go speak a blessing of peace to others for the praise of Your glorious kingdom. Amen.
Have you seen the nail-pierced hand and spear-torn flesh of Jesus? If so, go tell others the difference it made in Your life. It’s not optional.
On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you!"
After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord.
Again Jesus said, "Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you." And with that he breathed on them and said, "Receive the Holy Spirit.”
Prince of Peace,
It’s comforting to know that no door can shut out Your presence. There is no lock strong enough to keep You out! Blessed assurance! I cherish the moment when You came, stood in the living room of my heart and spoke a blessing of peace to me.
What a joy it was to see Your mighty nail-pierced hand and feel the warmth of Your amazing love. It’s the hand that was hammered to the cross to blot out my blemishes, erase my errors and fix my flaws. It’s the hand that forever changed me and gave me new life. There is precious peace in Your pardon.
I rejoice at the sight of the spear-torn flesh in Your side. From it spewed the innocent blood that made me holy, pure, and blameless in Your sight. A fountain of water flowed from Your wound to heal me of mine. Because of Your torn flesh, nothing can separate me from You – no grief, no fault, no fear. There is peace in Your presence.
Finally, You breathed on me and filled me with Your Spirit. You empowered me to go persuade people to drop their differences and pursue friendship with You. I am required to confidently and courageously tell the life-changing story of my extreme encounter with my crucified Lord. There is peace in Your power.
Please dear Lord, come, stand in the living room of my heart today. Breathe a fresh blessing of peace on me. Renew the Holy Spirit power with in me and remind me of my mandatory mission. Then, I will go speak a blessing of peace to others for the praise of Your glorious kingdom. Amen.
Have you seen the nail-pierced hand and spear-torn flesh of Jesus? If so, go tell others the difference it made in Your life. It’s not optional.
Friday, April 06, 2007
He's Alive
Matthew 28:1-10
Early on Sunday morning, as the new day was dawning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went out to see the tomb. Suddenly there was a great earthquake, because an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and rolled aside the stone and sat on it. His face shone like lightning, and his clothing was as white as snow. The guards shook with fear when they saw him, and they fell into a dead faint.
Then the angel spoke to the women. “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I know you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He isn’t here! He has been raised from the dead, just as he said would happen. Come; see where his body was lying. And now, go quickly and tell his disciples he has been raised from the dead, and he is going ahead of you to Galilee. You will see him there. Remember, I have told you.”
The women ran quickly from the tomb. They were very frightened but also filled with great joy, and they rushed to find the disciples to give them the angel’s message. And as they went, Jesus met them. “Greetings!” he said. And they ran to him, held his feet, and worshiped him. Then Jesus said to them, “Don’t be afraid! Go tell my brothers to leave for Galilee, and they will see me there.” NLT
God of Hope,
My Living Lord,
I feel the fear and joy of the women who were at the tomb that glorious Sunday morning when You arose from the grave giving them the amazing gift of the resurrection – eternal life.
After Saturday mourning, these faithful followers awoke earlier than usual. The sun’s rays were just beginning to illuminate the new week when they somberly and silently went to sit by the sepulcher. O how I wonder what I miss when I don’t seek You early in the morning. Undoubtedly, these women didn’t expect the excitement that was about to unfold!
In the shadow of sorrow and sadness, the earth suddenly shook ferociously. A brilliant array of brightness bolted like lightening through the dark morning sky, jolting them from their feet. An angel, dressed in a glistening garment surrounded by the radiance of Your glory swiftly moved the huge stone aside and sat on it. He calmed their fears and proclaimed the Good News! You most certainly were alive.
The empty tomb guarantees it.
The angel assures it.
The women witnessed it.
As You promised, all my sins were buried in that tomb with You. My old way of life was gone forever, forgiven and forgotten in a cold, dark, empty grave. As You arose, so did I to a bountiful, beautiful new life. Hallelujah!
Because You live, I can face tomorrow.
Because You live all fear is gone!
Because I know You hold the future
And life is worth the living just because You live.
Fill me dear Lord with the same reverent fear and exuberant joy You gave these dear women. Exploding with excitement, I will go tell the Good News to all those around me! “Jesus is alive! A miracle has happened before my eyes. I have seen His shining glory, heard His gentle voice, and will never be the same again. Come and see!”
Holy Spirit, open the ears of those near me to hear this Good News. May someone receive the generous gift of life today because they have seen You resurrected in me. Glory to God in the highest. Amen.
O how I wonder what we miss when we don’t seek to worship Him early in the morning. Undoubtedly, we miss many exciting encounters with the Lord! I challenge you to get up early tomorrow morning, while it’s still dark outside, and go to the grave. Seek Him! There you’ll find an empty tomb and abundant new life! Go quickly! Worship Him!
Early on Sunday morning, as the new day was dawning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went out to see the tomb. Suddenly there was a great earthquake, because an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and rolled aside the stone and sat on it. His face shone like lightning, and his clothing was as white as snow. The guards shook with fear when they saw him, and they fell into a dead faint.
Then the angel spoke to the women. “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I know you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He isn’t here! He has been raised from the dead, just as he said would happen. Come; see where his body was lying. And now, go quickly and tell his disciples he has been raised from the dead, and he is going ahead of you to Galilee. You will see him there. Remember, I have told you.”
The women ran quickly from the tomb. They were very frightened but also filled with great joy, and they rushed to find the disciples to give them the angel’s message. And as they went, Jesus met them. “Greetings!” he said. And they ran to him, held his feet, and worshiped him. Then Jesus said to them, “Don’t be afraid! Go tell my brothers to leave for Galilee, and they will see me there.” NLT
God of Hope,
My Living Lord,
I feel the fear and joy of the women who were at the tomb that glorious Sunday morning when You arose from the grave giving them the amazing gift of the resurrection – eternal life.
After Saturday mourning, these faithful followers awoke earlier than usual. The sun’s rays were just beginning to illuminate the new week when they somberly and silently went to sit by the sepulcher. O how I wonder what I miss when I don’t seek You early in the morning. Undoubtedly, these women didn’t expect the excitement that was about to unfold!
In the shadow of sorrow and sadness, the earth suddenly shook ferociously. A brilliant array of brightness bolted like lightening through the dark morning sky, jolting them from their feet. An angel, dressed in a glistening garment surrounded by the radiance of Your glory swiftly moved the huge stone aside and sat on it. He calmed their fears and proclaimed the Good News! You most certainly were alive.
The empty tomb guarantees it.
The angel assures it.
The women witnessed it.
As You promised, all my sins were buried in that tomb with You. My old way of life was gone forever, forgiven and forgotten in a cold, dark, empty grave. As You arose, so did I to a bountiful, beautiful new life. Hallelujah!
Because You live, I can face tomorrow.
Because You live all fear is gone!
Because I know You hold the future
And life is worth the living just because You live.
Fill me dear Lord with the same reverent fear and exuberant joy You gave these dear women. Exploding with excitement, I will go tell the Good News to all those around me! “Jesus is alive! A miracle has happened before my eyes. I have seen His shining glory, heard His gentle voice, and will never be the same again. Come and see!”
Holy Spirit, open the ears of those near me to hear this Good News. May someone receive the generous gift of life today because they have seen You resurrected in me. Glory to God in the highest. Amen.
O how I wonder what we miss when we don’t seek to worship Him early in the morning. Undoubtedly, we miss many exciting encounters with the Lord! I challenge you to get up early tomorrow morning, while it’s still dark outside, and go to the grave. Seek Him! There you’ll find an empty tomb and abundant new life! Go quickly! Worship Him!
Thursday, April 05, 2007
Sovereign God
Matthew 27:62-66
The next day, the one after Preparation Day, the chief priests and the Pharisees went to Pilate. "Sir," they said, "we remember that while he was still alive that deceiver said, 'After three days I will rise again.' So give the order for the tomb to be made secure until the third day. Otherwise, his disciples may come and steal the body and tell the people that he has been raised from the dead. This last deception will be worse than the first."
"Take a guard," Pilate answered. "Go, make the tomb as secure as you know how." So they went and made the tomb secure by putting a seal on the stone and posting the guard.
Sovereign God,
I stand in awe of Your majesty, glory and supremacy. As the Most High Ruler of the universe, all authority submits to You – all the powers of heaven and all the peoples of earth. No one can interrupt Your mighty work. Thank You for the excellent illustration of Your vast sovereignty and divine providence on that holiest of holy days so many years ago.
While the women were weeping, waiting and watching, and the terrorized disciples defected in utter despair, this hostile odd combination of religious leaders were collaborating to eliminate the movement of Jesus’ body. In fact, they had so much contempt for Your Son that they violated their scruples and marched right into the Praetorium to see Pilate. Instead of having their Passover devotions, they were dealing with the defiled Gentile government about securing the tomb.
Pilate, who was scornful and indifferent, had previously washed his hands of the verdict. Having enough of the whole ordeal, he quickly bought into their grand plan. Playing into Your hand, these hateful people were doing exactly what You predestined them to do in order to accomplish Your eternal purpose.
With the eyes of my heart open, I see how You brilliantly orchestrated this whole scene to fulfill the prophesy that Your Son would spend three days in a wealthy man’s grave. You marvelously put in place the whole lot of pagans with their loathsome agenda to make sure that there was no way possible for the disciples to steal His body. The only explanation for the absence of it would be the resurrection.
Thank You, God, for revealing to me how You work ALL things for the praise of Your glory, according to Your intended plan. These arrogant fools thought they dealt wisely, but You outwitted them by using their strategy to rise up victorious and promote the splendor of Your everlasting dominion. Hallelujah! Amen.
Whatever happens in your life, whatever you can’t understand, whatever you struggle with, whatever doesn’t make sense, whatever trials you’re facing, God’s at work, fitting the pieces of the puzzle together to work out His predetermined plan and perfect will for your life. It’s for His glory and your good. The same God who was in control of every aspect of Jesus’ death and resurrection is in control of your life too. He hasn’t ever abandoned His throne or relinquished His authority. Do you believe He providentially and miraculously controls all things?
In sudden death and despair God works for the good of those who love Him.
In cancer and catastrophes God works for the good of those who love Him.
In flops and failures God works for the good of those who love Him.
In accidents and hospital stays God works for the good of those who love Him.
In unemployment and financial disaster God works for the good of those who love Him.
In felonies and imprisonment God works for the good of those who love Him.
In trials and temptations God works for the good of those who love Him.
In divorce papers and broken families God works for the good of those who love Him.
In addictions and abortions God works for the good of those who love Him.
In infertility and injury God works for the good of those who love Him.
His Word says, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28
The next day, the one after Preparation Day, the chief priests and the Pharisees went to Pilate. "Sir," they said, "we remember that while he was still alive that deceiver said, 'After three days I will rise again.' So give the order for the tomb to be made secure until the third day. Otherwise, his disciples may come and steal the body and tell the people that he has been raised from the dead. This last deception will be worse than the first."
"Take a guard," Pilate answered. "Go, make the tomb as secure as you know how." So they went and made the tomb secure by putting a seal on the stone and posting the guard.
Sovereign God,
I stand in awe of Your majesty, glory and supremacy. As the Most High Ruler of the universe, all authority submits to You – all the powers of heaven and all the peoples of earth. No one can interrupt Your mighty work. Thank You for the excellent illustration of Your vast sovereignty and divine providence on that holiest of holy days so many years ago.
While the women were weeping, waiting and watching, and the terrorized disciples defected in utter despair, this hostile odd combination of religious leaders were collaborating to eliminate the movement of Jesus’ body. In fact, they had so much contempt for Your Son that they violated their scruples and marched right into the Praetorium to see Pilate. Instead of having their Passover devotions, they were dealing with the defiled Gentile government about securing the tomb.
Pilate, who was scornful and indifferent, had previously washed his hands of the verdict. Having enough of the whole ordeal, he quickly bought into their grand plan. Playing into Your hand, these hateful people were doing exactly what You predestined them to do in order to accomplish Your eternal purpose.
With the eyes of my heart open, I see how You brilliantly orchestrated this whole scene to fulfill the prophesy that Your Son would spend three days in a wealthy man’s grave. You marvelously put in place the whole lot of pagans with their loathsome agenda to make sure that there was no way possible for the disciples to steal His body. The only explanation for the absence of it would be the resurrection.
Thank You, God, for revealing to me how You work ALL things for the praise of Your glory, according to Your intended plan. These arrogant fools thought they dealt wisely, but You outwitted them by using their strategy to rise up victorious and promote the splendor of Your everlasting dominion. Hallelujah! Amen.
Whatever happens in your life, whatever you can’t understand, whatever you struggle with, whatever doesn’t make sense, whatever trials you’re facing, God’s at work, fitting the pieces of the puzzle together to work out His predetermined plan and perfect will for your life. It’s for His glory and your good. The same God who was in control of every aspect of Jesus’ death and resurrection is in control of your life too. He hasn’t ever abandoned His throne or relinquished His authority. Do you believe He providentially and miraculously controls all things?
In sudden death and despair God works for the good of those who love Him.
In cancer and catastrophes God works for the good of those who love Him.
In flops and failures God works for the good of those who love Him.
In accidents and hospital stays God works for the good of those who love Him.
In unemployment and financial disaster God works for the good of those who love Him.
In felonies and imprisonment God works for the good of those who love Him.
In trials and temptations God works for the good of those who love Him.
In divorce papers and broken families God works for the good of those who love Him.
In addictions and abortions God works for the good of those who love Him.
In infertility and injury God works for the good of those who love Him.
His Word says, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28
Wednesday, April 04, 2007
Dark Fridays, Endless Saturdays
The women, who had followed him from Galilee, stood at a distance, watching these things.
The women who had come with Jesus from Galilee followed Joseph and saw the tomb and how his body was laid in it. Then they went home and prepared spices and perfumes. But they rested on the Sabbath in obedience to the commandment. Luke 23: 50, 55-56
Jesus,
Thank You for the amazing lesson we learn from these devoted women who bravely followed You. Like best friends, they fearlessly walked with You through the dark, difficult valley of death. While the other disciples abandoned You under mounting pressure, these courageous ladies stayed at the Cross until every last gruesome detail was finished and cleaned up.
Heartbroken, they went home and prepared their most valuable possessions – spices and perfume, to lovingly and respectfully care for Your dead body. Deep in despair, they rested and waited through a long Friday night and endless Saturday mourning for the appropriate time to serve You.
We too will experience frighteningly dark Friday’s – times of extreme crisis and confusion. During intensely disturbing, uncertain circumstances we can be like the disciples and go into hiding, or we can be like these courageous women and stick around until every shocking detail is worked into something magnificently beautiful. In their wildest dreams, they couldn’t have imagined the spectacular ending to the story; but, because of their wholehearted love and commitment, they were the first to witness the miracle of Your astonishing resurrection.
O how often we miss the wonders of Your love because we walk away during duress. With our eyes on our own sad situation, we don’t even consider offering our most valuable treasures to tenderly and reverently care for You. Please dear Lord, give us strength to endure excruciatingly painful conditions, sensitive hearts to serve You in the midst of our misery, and faith to remain at the grave through our grief.
Just as You turned their tragedy into triumph, we can expect You to turn our dark Fridays and endless Saturdays into brilliant Sundays for the glory of Your name. Hallelujah! Amen.
Between yesterday’s tragedy and tomorrow’s triumph will you leave God or linger at the grave until He’s glorified?
Your Good Friday could be disease or death, affliction or addiction, divorce or separation, heartache or hardship, disaster or destruction. Whatever your misfortune, look forward with hope to Easter Sunday when your mourning will turn to joy.
The women who had come with Jesus from Galilee followed Joseph and saw the tomb and how his body was laid in it. Then they went home and prepared spices and perfumes. But they rested on the Sabbath in obedience to the commandment. Luke 23: 50, 55-56
Jesus,
Thank You for the amazing lesson we learn from these devoted women who bravely followed You. Like best friends, they fearlessly walked with You through the dark, difficult valley of death. While the other disciples abandoned You under mounting pressure, these courageous ladies stayed at the Cross until every last gruesome detail was finished and cleaned up.
Heartbroken, they went home and prepared their most valuable possessions – spices and perfume, to lovingly and respectfully care for Your dead body. Deep in despair, they rested and waited through a long Friday night and endless Saturday mourning for the appropriate time to serve You.
We too will experience frighteningly dark Friday’s – times of extreme crisis and confusion. During intensely disturbing, uncertain circumstances we can be like the disciples and go into hiding, or we can be like these courageous women and stick around until every shocking detail is worked into something magnificently beautiful. In their wildest dreams, they couldn’t have imagined the spectacular ending to the story; but, because of their wholehearted love and commitment, they were the first to witness the miracle of Your astonishing resurrection.
O how often we miss the wonders of Your love because we walk away during duress. With our eyes on our own sad situation, we don’t even consider offering our most valuable treasures to tenderly and reverently care for You. Please dear Lord, give us strength to endure excruciatingly painful conditions, sensitive hearts to serve You in the midst of our misery, and faith to remain at the grave through our grief.
Just as You turned their tragedy into triumph, we can expect You to turn our dark Fridays and endless Saturdays into brilliant Sundays for the glory of Your name. Hallelujah! Amen.
Between yesterday’s tragedy and tomorrow’s triumph will you leave God or linger at the grave until He’s glorified?
Your Good Friday could be disease or death, affliction or addiction, divorce or separation, heartache or hardship, disaster or destruction. Whatever your misfortune, look forward with hope to Easter Sunday when your mourning will turn to joy.
Tuesday, April 03, 2007
Amazing Burial
John 19:38-42
Later, Joseph of Arimathea asked Pilate for the body of Jesus. Now Joseph was a disciple of Jesus, but secretly because he feared the Jews. With Pilate's permission, he came and took the body away. He was accompanied by Nicodemus, the man who earlier had visited Jesus at night. Nicodemus brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds. Taking Jesus' body, the two of them wrapped it, with the spices, in strips of linen. This was in accordance with Jewish burial customs. At the place where Jesus was crucified, there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb, in which no one had ever been laid. Because it was the Jewish day of Preparation and since the tomb was nearby, they laid Jesus there.
Holy Spirit,
Thank You for opening the eyes of my heart to see that I too am guilty of being a secret follower of Jesus like Joseph and Nicodemus. I call myself a Christian in my heart, but am afraid to admit it in front of people. Frightened of losing my prestigious place in the community, I too hide my faith in the closet. A people pleaser, I’m too scared of ridicule to stand out and publicly acknowledge my allegiance to You. Forgive me, O God, for my half-hearted commitment.
On that dreadfully dark Friday, these two casual disciples witnessed the unbelievable signs and wonders of the Cross. They experienced the unusual daytime blackout and the thunderous earthquake that shook open the gates of heaven. They saw the dead rise from the grave and knew beyond a shadow of doubt that You were Who You said You were. Recognizing the great distance You went and the exorbitant price You paid for them, they opened their mouths and spoke.
Having seen You die, their hearts were enlivened to ask for Your bloodied, bruised and battered body. Out of gratitude they bravely came out of hiding to give You a proper burial. Radically changed by Your death, they risked everything: their prominent positions, their social status, and their livelihoods to ensure that You were treated with deep heartfelt respect and dignity.
O Lord, will you kindly change my timid heart by Your death? Embolden me to come out of hiding, confidently stand up, open my mouth and speak out for You no matter the cost. With a fully devoted heart, I’ll willingly risk my reputation to bring glory and honor to You because You died for me. Amen.
Are you a secret follower of Jesus Christ? Do you hide your faith from your friends and fellow workers? This is an appropriate time to come out of the closet and let others know your allegiance to Him.
Jesus has some strong words for us: "If anyone acknowledges me publicly here on earth, I will openly acknowledge that person before my Father in heaven. But if anyone denies me here on earth, I will deny that person before my Father in heaven.” Matthew 10:32-33 NLT
Later, Joseph of Arimathea asked Pilate for the body of Jesus. Now Joseph was a disciple of Jesus, but secretly because he feared the Jews. With Pilate's permission, he came and took the body away. He was accompanied by Nicodemus, the man who earlier had visited Jesus at night. Nicodemus brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds. Taking Jesus' body, the two of them wrapped it, with the spices, in strips of linen. This was in accordance with Jewish burial customs. At the place where Jesus was crucified, there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb, in which no one had ever been laid. Because it was the Jewish day of Preparation and since the tomb was nearby, they laid Jesus there.
Holy Spirit,
Thank You for opening the eyes of my heart to see that I too am guilty of being a secret follower of Jesus like Joseph and Nicodemus. I call myself a Christian in my heart, but am afraid to admit it in front of people. Frightened of losing my prestigious place in the community, I too hide my faith in the closet. A people pleaser, I’m too scared of ridicule to stand out and publicly acknowledge my allegiance to You. Forgive me, O God, for my half-hearted commitment.
On that dreadfully dark Friday, these two casual disciples witnessed the unbelievable signs and wonders of the Cross. They experienced the unusual daytime blackout and the thunderous earthquake that shook open the gates of heaven. They saw the dead rise from the grave and knew beyond a shadow of doubt that You were Who You said You were. Recognizing the great distance You went and the exorbitant price You paid for them, they opened their mouths and spoke.
Having seen You die, their hearts were enlivened to ask for Your bloodied, bruised and battered body. Out of gratitude they bravely came out of hiding to give You a proper burial. Radically changed by Your death, they risked everything: their prominent positions, their social status, and their livelihoods to ensure that You were treated with deep heartfelt respect and dignity.
O Lord, will you kindly change my timid heart by Your death? Embolden me to come out of hiding, confidently stand up, open my mouth and speak out for You no matter the cost. With a fully devoted heart, I’ll willingly risk my reputation to bring glory and honor to You because You died for me. Amen.
Are you a secret follower of Jesus Christ? Do you hide your faith from your friends and fellow workers? This is an appropriate time to come out of the closet and let others know your allegiance to Him.
Jesus has some strong words for us: "If anyone acknowledges me publicly here on earth, I will openly acknowledge that person before my Father in heaven. But if anyone denies me here on earth, I will deny that person before my Father in heaven.” Matthew 10:32-33 NLT
Monday, April 02, 2007
Testimony of the Centurion
Matthew 27:54
When the centurion and those with him who were guarding Jesus saw the earthquake and all that had happened, they were terrified, and exclaimed, "Surely he was the Son of God!"
Jesus,
Surely You are the Son of God! Thank You for the wonders and signs of the Cross that crushed the Roman centurion’s immovable heart of stone and caused him to tremble.
On an ordinary day, there was nothing unusual or upsetting about his assignment. He had done it many times before. Unconcerned with the merits of the case, he was only worried about watching and controlling the unruly mob that morning when the whole land was suddenly wrapped in an unnatural midday midnight.
Unable to see anything, he could only hear the voices of the angry bewildered masses, along with the agonizing cries from the accused. But from You, instead of cursing, he heard words that were peculiarly kind and considerate, as You miraculously focused on the needs of others during Your final horrific hours. You took the suffering that was inflicted on You calmly and quietly, baffling him.
After three frightening hours of midday darkness, the earth unexpectedly and violently quaked with a thunderous roar, shaking the very depths of his sin-scorched soul. He watched while the curtain of the temple was aggressively torn in two, the door to heaven was flung wide open, and cadavers mysteriously arose from their tombs. Woe!
The centurion and those with him certainly noticed something drastically different about Your execution. Something significant and magnificent had happened. Shocked by the wonders he had witnessed, he realized that You were no ordinary man and he was full of terror, awe, alarm, and reverence. Convinced in His heart that You were innocent, He opened His mouth and confessed, “Surely, He was the Son of God.” Wow!
The lesson in it for me is to not become so complacent with my service that I don’t notice who I’m serving. Please give me a desire to know You more passionately, personally and powerfully. Open the eyes of my heart to see You for Who You are: The Son of God. Trembling with fear, awe, alarm and reverence, I will fall down, open my mouth and worship You, praising and glorifying Your Holy Name. Amen.
Have you come to the place where you have a deep heartfelt respect and reverence for Jesus Christ? Do you realize that this One who died on Calvary did so for YOU? Has this filled you with awe? Has this fact alarmed you?
The centurion moved from being complacent through becoming concerned to become committed. This is the process that you must pass through on your journey to faith in Jesus Christ. You may have heard much about Him, but don’t really KNOW Him. As you witness the wonders and signs of the cross, you too may become concerned about entering the gates of heaven. Don’t stop short – put your faith in the One who endured all this for YOU. Will you commit your entire life to Him?
When the centurion and those with him who were guarding Jesus saw the earthquake and all that had happened, they were terrified, and exclaimed, "Surely he was the Son of God!"
Jesus,
Surely You are the Son of God! Thank You for the wonders and signs of the Cross that crushed the Roman centurion’s immovable heart of stone and caused him to tremble.
On an ordinary day, there was nothing unusual or upsetting about his assignment. He had done it many times before. Unconcerned with the merits of the case, he was only worried about watching and controlling the unruly mob that morning when the whole land was suddenly wrapped in an unnatural midday midnight.
Unable to see anything, he could only hear the voices of the angry bewildered masses, along with the agonizing cries from the accused. But from You, instead of cursing, he heard words that were peculiarly kind and considerate, as You miraculously focused on the needs of others during Your final horrific hours. You took the suffering that was inflicted on You calmly and quietly, baffling him.
After three frightening hours of midday darkness, the earth unexpectedly and violently quaked with a thunderous roar, shaking the very depths of his sin-scorched soul. He watched while the curtain of the temple was aggressively torn in two, the door to heaven was flung wide open, and cadavers mysteriously arose from their tombs. Woe!
The centurion and those with him certainly noticed something drastically different about Your execution. Something significant and magnificent had happened. Shocked by the wonders he had witnessed, he realized that You were no ordinary man and he was full of terror, awe, alarm, and reverence. Convinced in His heart that You were innocent, He opened His mouth and confessed, “Surely, He was the Son of God.” Wow!
The lesson in it for me is to not become so complacent with my service that I don’t notice who I’m serving. Please give me a desire to know You more passionately, personally and powerfully. Open the eyes of my heart to see You for Who You are: The Son of God. Trembling with fear, awe, alarm and reverence, I will fall down, open my mouth and worship You, praising and glorifying Your Holy Name. Amen.
Have you come to the place where you have a deep heartfelt respect and reverence for Jesus Christ? Do you realize that this One who died on Calvary did so for YOU? Has this filled you with awe? Has this fact alarmed you?
The centurion moved from being complacent through becoming concerned to become committed. This is the process that you must pass through on your journey to faith in Jesus Christ. You may have heard much about Him, but don’t really KNOW Him. As you witness the wonders and signs of the cross, you too may become concerned about entering the gates of heaven. Don’t stop short – put your faith in the One who endured all this for YOU. Will you commit your entire life to Him?
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