Romans 15:1-7
1We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. 2Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. 3For even Christ did not please himself but, as it is written: "The insults of those who insult you have fallen on me." 4For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.
5May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, 6so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
7Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.
God of Hope,
Your Words are wonderful! They’re more precious than silver, more brilliant than diamonds. Thank You for preserving Ancient History to teach me. In the classroom of my heart I gain knowledge, wisdom and discernment. I develop insight to help me differentiate between right and wrong. Reading and studying Your Great History book, is the wisest thing I could ever do. It prepares me for the biggest test of my life – loving and accepting others.
Fully aware of the facts, I’ll know that my selfish pride and prejudice leads to dissension, disagreement, and disconnect. Following Your perfect example, I’ll offer my body as a living sacrifice. Just as You gave up Your rights to glory and power, I’ll give up my rights to accolades and control. Because You left Your lofty, holy and pure position in heaven and came to earth to bear my sin and shame, I’ll leave my hoity-toity pedestal of prominence to bear with the faults and failures of others. Since You graciously removed the barrier of sin that separates me from You, I’ll voluntarily take down the walls of intolerance that divide me from others. United, we’ll glorify You with one heart and one mouth by accepting one another.
Familiarity with the past will help me better understand the future. Primed with faith, I’ll have endurance, encouragement, and confidence to keep an optimistic outlook of loving unity throughout each day. As I diligently read and study my Bible, Your Ancient History book, please fill me with joy and peace. I trust that the Hope of Heaven will spill from my heart by the power of the Spirit that is within me. May my attitudes and actions bring praise to our glorious family name forever and ever! Amen.
The lessons we learn from God’s Word are tremendous! If we seriously take the time to study and practice our lessons, we’ll fulfill our call to be holy. We’ll be people of peace and joy. A delight to be around!
What lesson is God teaching you in the classroom of your heart? Are you practicing it? Are you ready for the biggest test of your life – to love and accept others unconditionally?
Thursday, April 27, 2006
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
Living Together Harmoniously
Romans 14:19
19Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.
How lovely is Your dwelling place, O Lord Almighty. As a member of Your royal family, I’m a citizen of the Kingdom of Heaven where rules still abound. I praise You, Father, because I belong in Your royal household with every other Christian from every nation, tribe and tongue. Whether we realize it or not, our lives are interwoven, interconnected and interdependent. You expect us to love and respect each other as Jesus does.
We come here from many different lands, with our unusual dialects, and habitual traditions. Our commitment to unity and loyalty, despite our diversity, will prove that we love You. We are richly blessed to be here as Your chosen children. Each of us has been uniquely created to be a vessel of grace. In the splendor of Your majesty, clothe us with compassion, gentleness and tolerance to love despite our differences. Create in our hearts a desire to listen, support and encourage each other. Anoint our tongues with grace to generously build each other up. Don’t let any unwholesome, hurtful words come out of our mouths. In Your home Lord, may we honor You with peace and harmony.
Bickering, squabbling, arguing, and quarreling over insignificant issues causes division and dissensions. It disrespects Your authority and grieves Your loving heart. Please dear Lord, just give me more of Jesus. Full of Him, I’ll lay aside my selfish attitudes and actions in order to keep peace in our family. In doing so, our family name will be kept holy, righteous and pure. In my life Lord, be glorified today. Amen.
Have you ever stopped to think about how many different cultures are in the family of God? We come from different generations speaking different languages. But, our Father clearly commands us to make every effort to do what leads to peace and mutual edification. We must tolerate and accept each other! It’s not an option!
What can you do today to prevent division and dissension in your church? Ask God to anoint your tongue with grace to speak words that build up rather than tear down. As children of the Carpenter, our Daddy teaches us precisely how to build His Temple. Will you listen and follow His instruction?
19Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.
How lovely is Your dwelling place, O Lord Almighty. As a member of Your royal family, I’m a citizen of the Kingdom of Heaven where rules still abound. I praise You, Father, because I belong in Your royal household with every other Christian from every nation, tribe and tongue. Whether we realize it or not, our lives are interwoven, interconnected and interdependent. You expect us to love and respect each other as Jesus does.
We come here from many different lands, with our unusual dialects, and habitual traditions. Our commitment to unity and loyalty, despite our diversity, will prove that we love You. We are richly blessed to be here as Your chosen children. Each of us has been uniquely created to be a vessel of grace. In the splendor of Your majesty, clothe us with compassion, gentleness and tolerance to love despite our differences. Create in our hearts a desire to listen, support and encourage each other. Anoint our tongues with grace to generously build each other up. Don’t let any unwholesome, hurtful words come out of our mouths. In Your home Lord, may we honor You with peace and harmony.
Bickering, squabbling, arguing, and quarreling over insignificant issues causes division and dissensions. It disrespects Your authority and grieves Your loving heart. Please dear Lord, just give me more of Jesus. Full of Him, I’ll lay aside my selfish attitudes and actions in order to keep peace in our family. In doing so, our family name will be kept holy, righteous and pure. In my life Lord, be glorified today. Amen.
Have you ever stopped to think about how many different cultures are in the family of God? We come from different generations speaking different languages. But, our Father clearly commands us to make every effort to do what leads to peace and mutual edification. We must tolerate and accept each other! It’s not an option!
What can you do today to prevent division and dissension in your church? Ask God to anoint your tongue with grace to speak words that build up rather than tear down. As children of the Carpenter, our Daddy teaches us precisely how to build His Temple. Will you listen and follow His instruction?
Tuesday, April 25, 2006
Stumbling Blocks
Romans 14: 13
13Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother's way.
Luke 17:1-3
1Jesus said to his disciples: "Things that cause people to sin are bound to come, but woe to that person through whom they come. 2It would be better for him to be thrown into the sea with a millstone tied around his neck than for him to cause one of these little ones to sin. 3So watch yourselves."
O Lord My God,
Have mercy on me! Increase my faith and change me from the inside out! Search my heart and reveal my weaknesses so that I can be on guard against sin. Because we live in a fallen world surrounded by all sorts of evil and temptation we’re bound to stumble and fall. Sometimes I’ll set-up the obstacle, other times I’ll trip over it.
O righteous God who searches hearts and minds, search me and point out any offensive way in me. Shine Your light on my heart and reveal my weaknesses and vulnerabilities so that I’ll notice the obstructions in front of me. With eyes wide open, I’ll avoid the dangerous pitfalls that I’m most likely to plunge into.
Where I’m strong give me grace to be sensitive to my surroundings so that I won’t hinder others. Show me the weaknesses and susceptibility of my family and friends. Aware of the difficulties that cause them problems, I’ll practice love, patience and self-restraint. With my eyes fixed on You, I’ll cautiously look out for the best interest of others. Woe to me if I cause someone to fall! I’d be better off dead!
Please cover me with humility, kindness and love to stand firm in all situations. You and You alone are the Only Righteous Judge. I need to stop condemning and glorify our family name. Amen.
Your faith is strong in an area if you can survive contact with sinners without being shaped into their image. It is weak in an area if you must avoid an activity in order to protect yourself from falling. Whenever in doubt, ask yourself: "Can I do it without sinning? Will my attitudes and actions influence others for the good?"
Identify your strengths and weaknesses. One thing I will do today is ____________________ (action) in order to prevent ______________________ (name of a person) from stumbling.
One thing I will do today is stop nagging in order to prevent my child from stumbling. (My constant badgering annoys him and causes dissension in our family.)
13Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother's way.
Luke 17:1-3
1Jesus said to his disciples: "Things that cause people to sin are bound to come, but woe to that person through whom they come. 2It would be better for him to be thrown into the sea with a millstone tied around his neck than for him to cause one of these little ones to sin. 3So watch yourselves."
O Lord My God,
Have mercy on me! Increase my faith and change me from the inside out! Search my heart and reveal my weaknesses so that I can be on guard against sin. Because we live in a fallen world surrounded by all sorts of evil and temptation we’re bound to stumble and fall. Sometimes I’ll set-up the obstacle, other times I’ll trip over it.
O righteous God who searches hearts and minds, search me and point out any offensive way in me. Shine Your light on my heart and reveal my weaknesses and vulnerabilities so that I’ll notice the obstructions in front of me. With eyes wide open, I’ll avoid the dangerous pitfalls that I’m most likely to plunge into.
Where I’m strong give me grace to be sensitive to my surroundings so that I won’t hinder others. Show me the weaknesses and susceptibility of my family and friends. Aware of the difficulties that cause them problems, I’ll practice love, patience and self-restraint. With my eyes fixed on You, I’ll cautiously look out for the best interest of others. Woe to me if I cause someone to fall! I’d be better off dead!
Please cover me with humility, kindness and love to stand firm in all situations. You and You alone are the Only Righteous Judge. I need to stop condemning and glorify our family name. Amen.
Your faith is strong in an area if you can survive contact with sinners without being shaped into their image. It is weak in an area if you must avoid an activity in order to protect yourself from falling. Whenever in doubt, ask yourself: "Can I do it without sinning? Will my attitudes and actions influence others for the good?"
Identify your strengths and weaknesses. One thing I will do today is ____________________ (action) in order to prevent ______________________ (name of a person) from stumbling.
One thing I will do today is stop nagging in order to prevent my child from stumbling. (My constant badgering annoys him and causes dissension in our family.)
Monday, April 24, 2006
Disputable Matters
Romans 14:1, 3, 10, 12, 17-18
1Accept him whose faith is weak, without passing judgment on disputable matters … 3for God has accepted him.
10You, then, why do you judge your brother? Or why do you look down on your brother? For we will all stand before God's judgment seat. 12So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God.
17For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit, 18because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and approved by men.
Father in Heaven~
Thank You for cultural diversity. Some cultures believe eating meat is immoral. Other cultures require women to cover their heads. Certain cultures permit and promote alcohol and gambling. Specific cultures forbid any and all activities on the Sabbath. Particular cultures celebrate holy days that others don’t recognize. Some cultures perform rites and rituals that I don’t understand. Other cultures celebrate communion and baptism differently. Certain cultures believe there is an appropriate dress code for church. Some cultures like to worship You with traditional music while others like to worship with dancing, guitars and cymbals. Even theology varies within society. Who am I to determine who is right or wrong, strong or weak?
Forgive me, Lord, for being brutally opinionated! You accept everyone and command me to do the same. Every one of us will stand before Your throne and give an account to You. You will judge each of us according to what we’ve done. That means You will judge my intolerance and criticism of people who are different from me.
Help me dear Lord, to love my brothers and sisters in this hugely diverse family. You’ve adopted us from various and vast backgrounds. We bring with us a variety of human traditions. Your kingdom is not about rituals and religion. It’s about righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. Open my mind to love and accept those who think, perform and act different from me. Exercising self-control when I treat others with loving tolerance, I’ll please You and glorify Your holy name. In my life Lord be glorified. Amen.
Have you ever stopped to think about all the disputable matters that we allow to affect our worship? God just wants us to get along! Our principle should be: in essentials: unity; in non-essentials: tolerance, in everything: love. Identify one issue in the church that irritates you. Ask the Holy Spirit to fill you with love to tolerate and accept the situation. Set aside your selfishness for the sake of Jesus! After all He did for you, it’s the least you can do for Him.
1Accept him whose faith is weak, without passing judgment on disputable matters … 3for God has accepted him.
10You, then, why do you judge your brother? Or why do you look down on your brother? For we will all stand before God's judgment seat. 12So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God.
17For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit, 18because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and approved by men.
Father in Heaven~
Thank You for cultural diversity. Some cultures believe eating meat is immoral. Other cultures require women to cover their heads. Certain cultures permit and promote alcohol and gambling. Specific cultures forbid any and all activities on the Sabbath. Particular cultures celebrate holy days that others don’t recognize. Some cultures perform rites and rituals that I don’t understand. Other cultures celebrate communion and baptism differently. Certain cultures believe there is an appropriate dress code for church. Some cultures like to worship You with traditional music while others like to worship with dancing, guitars and cymbals. Even theology varies within society. Who am I to determine who is right or wrong, strong or weak?
Forgive me, Lord, for being brutally opinionated! You accept everyone and command me to do the same. Every one of us will stand before Your throne and give an account to You. You will judge each of us according to what we’ve done. That means You will judge my intolerance and criticism of people who are different from me.
Help me dear Lord, to love my brothers and sisters in this hugely diverse family. You’ve adopted us from various and vast backgrounds. We bring with us a variety of human traditions. Your kingdom is not about rituals and religion. It’s about righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. Open my mind to love and accept those who think, perform and act different from me. Exercising self-control when I treat others with loving tolerance, I’ll please You and glorify Your holy name. In my life Lord be glorified. Amen.
Have you ever stopped to think about all the disputable matters that we allow to affect our worship? God just wants us to get along! Our principle should be: in essentials: unity; in non-essentials: tolerance, in everything: love. Identify one issue in the church that irritates you. Ask the Holy Spirit to fill you with love to tolerate and accept the situation. Set aside your selfishness for the sake of Jesus! After all He did for you, it’s the least you can do for Him.
Friday, April 21, 2006
Mandatory Mission
Matthew 28: 16-20
16Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. 17When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. 18Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20and 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
16Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. 17When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. 18Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20and 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 20, 2006
I Have Seen The Lord
John 21: 1- 7, 12
1Afterward Jesus appeared again to his disciples, by the Sea of Tiberias. It happened this way: 2Simon Peter, Thomas (called Didymus), Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two other disciples were together. 3"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.
4Early in the morning, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples did not realize that it was Jesus.
5He called out to them, "Friends, haven't you any fish?"
"No," they answered.
6He 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.
7Then the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, "It is the Lord!"
12None 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.
1Afterward Jesus appeared again to his disciples, by the Sea of Tiberias. It happened this way: 2Simon Peter, Thomas (called Didymus), Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two other disciples were together. 3"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.
4Early in the morning, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples did not realize that it was Jesus.
5He called out to them, "Friends, haven't you any fish?"
"No," they answered.
6He 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.
7Then the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, "It is the Lord!"
12None 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.
Wednesday, April 19, 2006
A Blessing of Peace
John 20: 19-22
19On 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!"
20After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord.
21Again Jesus said, "Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you." 22And 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 name. 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.
Tuesday, April 18, 2006
He Walks With Me and Talks With Me
Luke 24: 13-32
13That same day two of them were walking to the village Emmaus, about seven miles out of Jerusalem. 14They were deep in conversation, going over all these things that had happened. 15In the middle of their talk and questions, Jesus came up and walked along with them. 16But they were not able to recognize who he was.
17He asked, "What's this you're discussing so intently as you walk along?" They just stood there, long-faced, like they had lost their best friend. 18Then one of them, his name was Cleopas, said, "Are you the only one in Jerusalem who hasn't heard what's happened during the last few days?"
19He said, "What has happened?" They said, "The things that happened to Jesus the Nazarene. He was a man of God, a prophet, dynamic in work and word, blessed by both God and all the people. 20Then our high priests and leaders betrayed him, got him sentenced to death, and crucified him. 21And we had our hopes up that he was the One, the One about to deliver Israel. And it is now the third day since it happened. 22But now some of our women have completely confused us. Early this morning they were at the tomb 23and couldn't find his body. They came back with the story that they had seen a vision of angels who said he was alive. 24Some of our friends went off to the tomb to check and found it empty just as the women said, but they didn't see Jesus."
25Then he said to them, "So thick-headed! So slow-hearted! Why can't you simply believe all that the prophets said? 26Don't you see that these things had to happen, that the Messiah had to suffer and only then enter into his glory?" 27Then he started at the beginning, with the Books of Moses, and went on through all the Prophets, pointing out everything in the Scriptures that referred to him.
28They came to the edge of the village where they were headed. He acted as if he were going on 29but they pressed him: "Stay and have supper with us. It's nearly evening; the day is done." So he went in with them. 30And here is what happened: He sat down at the table with them. Taking the bread, he blessed and broke and gave it to them. 31At that moment, open-eyed, wide-eyed, they recognized him. And then he disappeared.
32Back 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? He's there walking with you. Why don't you talk to Him? He lives!
He lives, He lives, Christ Jesus lives today. He walks with me and talks with me along life's narrow way. He lives, He lives, salvation to impart. You ask me how I know He lives, He lives within my heart. (Copyright 1933 by Homer Rodehaver)
13That same day two of them were walking to the village Emmaus, about seven miles out of Jerusalem. 14They were deep in conversation, going over all these things that had happened. 15In the middle of their talk and questions, Jesus came up and walked along with them. 16But they were not able to recognize who he was.
17He asked, "What's this you're discussing so intently as you walk along?" They just stood there, long-faced, like they had lost their best friend. 18Then one of them, his name was Cleopas, said, "Are you the only one in Jerusalem who hasn't heard what's happened during the last few days?"
19He said, "What has happened?" They said, "The things that happened to Jesus the Nazarene. He was a man of God, a prophet, dynamic in work and word, blessed by both God and all the people. 20Then our high priests and leaders betrayed him, got him sentenced to death, and crucified him. 21And we had our hopes up that he was the One, the One about to deliver Israel. And it is now the third day since it happened. 22But now some of our women have completely confused us. Early this morning they were at the tomb 23and couldn't find his body. They came back with the story that they had seen a vision of angels who said he was alive. 24Some of our friends went off to the tomb to check and found it empty just as the women said, but they didn't see Jesus."
25Then he said to them, "So thick-headed! So slow-hearted! Why can't you simply believe all that the prophets said? 26Don't you see that these things had to happen, that the Messiah had to suffer and only then enter into his glory?" 27Then he started at the beginning, with the Books of Moses, and went on through all the Prophets, pointing out everything in the Scriptures that referred to him.
28They came to the edge of the village where they were headed. He acted as if he were going on 29but they pressed him: "Stay and have supper with us. It's nearly evening; the day is done." So he went in with them. 30And here is what happened: He sat down at the table with them. Taking the bread, he blessed and broke and gave it to them. 31At that moment, open-eyed, wide-eyed, they recognized him. And then he disappeared.
32Back 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? He's there walking with you. Why don't you talk to Him? He lives!
He lives, He lives, Christ Jesus lives today. He walks with me and talks with me along life's narrow way. He lives, He lives, salvation to impart. You ask me how I know He lives, He lives within my heart. (Copyright 1933 by Homer Rodehaver)
Monday, April 17, 2006
The Empty Tomb
Matthew 28:1-8
1 Early on Sunday morning, as the new day was dawning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went out to see the tomb. 2 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. 3 His face shone like lightning, and his clothing was as white as snow. 4 The guards shook with fear when they saw him, and they fell into a dead faint.
5 Then the angel spoke to the women. "Don’t be afraid!" he said. "I know you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. 6 He isn’t here! He has been raised from the dead, just as he said would happen. Come, see where his body was lying. 7 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."
8 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. 9 And as they went, Jesus met them. "Greetings!" he said. And they ran to him, held his feet, and worshiped him. 10 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 generous gift of the resurrection – eternal life.
After Saturday mourning, these faithful followers awoke earlier than usual. The rays of the sun 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!
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!
1 Early on Sunday morning, as the new day was dawning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went out to see the tomb. 2 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. 3 His face shone like lightning, and his clothing was as white as snow. 4 The guards shook with fear when they saw him, and they fell into a dead faint.
5 Then the angel spoke to the women. "Don’t be afraid!" he said. "I know you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. 6 He isn’t here! He has been raised from the dead, just as he said would happen. Come, see where his body was lying. 7 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."
8 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. 9 And as they went, Jesus met them. "Greetings!" he said. And they ran to him, held his feet, and worshiped him. 10 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 generous gift of the resurrection – eternal life.
After Saturday mourning, these faithful followers awoke earlier than usual. The rays of the sun 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!
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!
Friday, April 14, 2006
Good Friday, Endless Saturday, Easter Sunday
When they came to the place called the Skull, there they crucified him. Luke 23:33
When all the people who had gathered to witness this sight saw what took place, they beat their breasts and went away. But all those who knew him, including the women who had followed him from Galilee, stood at a distance, watching. Luke 33:48-49
Then Joseph took Jesus’ body down, wrapped it in linen cloth and placed it in a tomb cut in the rock, one in which no one had yet been laid. It was Preparation Day, and the Sabbath was about to begin.
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 33:53-56
On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. While they were wondering about this, suddenly two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning stood beside them. In their fright the women bowed down with their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, "Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; he has risen!" Luke 24:1-6
Jesus, Risen Savior, Glorious Lord~
The invitation to follow You is not one for fun in the Son. Not every day will be a bright, cheerful ticker tape parade. In fact, if we accept the invitation, we should anticipate a dark, difficult march through the valley of death. Our acquaintances may abandon us in our affliction, but those who truly love us will linger and watch until the tragedy is terminated. Lord, You know that Good Fridays are excruciatingly painful! Please give us strength to tolerate them.
After Friday comes endless Saturday mourning. Something’s gone or someone’s missing. The very thing or person that once filled the hollow of our heart has vanished. We’re left alone and empty, wondering when the wait will end. Sadness and sorrow seize our soul. Please dear Lord, give us faith to face Saturday, and grace to remain at the grave through our grief.
If we stick around through our dreadfully dark Fridays and seemingly eternal Saturdays, we’ll see brilliant sensational Sundays! We will rejoice when You turn our trial into triumph! It will be a blessing when You wipe the warm tears from our blurry eyes. As our vision clears we will see something bright drawing near, something different than we’ve ever seen before. We will see You our Risen Savior and Glorious Lord! 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
When all the people who had gathered to witness this sight saw what took place, they beat their breasts and went away. But all those who knew him, including the women who had followed him from Galilee, stood at a distance, watching. Luke 33:48-49
Then Joseph took Jesus’ body down, wrapped it in linen cloth and placed it in a tomb cut in the rock, one in which no one had yet been laid. It was Preparation Day, and the Sabbath was about to begin.
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 33:53-56
On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. While they were wondering about this, suddenly two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning stood beside them. In their fright the women bowed down with their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, "Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; he has risen!" Luke 24:1-6
Jesus, Risen Savior, Glorious Lord~
The invitation to follow You is not one for fun in the Son. Not every day will be a bright, cheerful ticker tape parade. In fact, if we accept the invitation, we should anticipate a dark, difficult march through the valley of death. Our acquaintances may abandon us in our affliction, but those who truly love us will linger and watch until the tragedy is terminated. Lord, You know that Good Fridays are excruciatingly painful! Please give us strength to tolerate them.
After Friday comes endless Saturday mourning. Something’s gone or someone’s missing. The very thing or person that once filled the hollow of our heart has vanished. We’re left alone and empty, wondering when the wait will end. Sadness and sorrow seize our soul. Please dear Lord, give us faith to face Saturday, and grace to remain at the grave through our grief.
If we stick around through our dreadfully dark Fridays and seemingly eternal Saturdays, we’ll see brilliant sensational Sundays! We will rejoice when You turn our trial into triumph! It will be a blessing when You wipe the warm tears from our blurry eyes. As our vision clears we will see something bright drawing near, something different than we’ve ever seen before. We will see You our Risen Savior and Glorious Lord! 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
Thursday, April 13, 2006
Simon of Cyrene
Matthew 27:32-35
32 As they were on the way, they came across a man named Simon, who was from Cyrene, and they forced him to carry Jesus’ cross. 33 Then they went out to a place called Golgotha (which means Skull Hill). 34 The soldiers gave him wine mixed with bitter gall, but when he had tasted it, he refused to drink it. 35 After they had nailed him to the cross. NLT
Jesus, Son of God,
Thank You for the wonderful image You’ve given me through Simon of Cyrene. An unimportant, ordinary man, he happened to stop at a dramatic scene, and was pressed into service by the tap of the Roman’s soldier’s broad sword. Little did he know when he stopped to watch the drama unfold, that he’d be forced to participate in an unwanted, unplanned, and unglamorous assignment that would radically reshape the remainder of his life. Undoubtedly, he had no idea that the command he’d been given to carry Your cross would be one of the greatest honors ever given to a human being. Certainly, he didn’t expect a divine encounter when he left home that morning. Pressed into service, he had no choice but to lay aside his plans and obey.
Lord, if you tap me on the shoulder with the Sword of Your Word and compel me to carry a burden for You, I want to be like Simon of Cyrene. He wasn’t chosen because he was pious, strong or faithful. He was chosen simply because he was in the right place at the right time. He may have grudging obliged. However, seeing his blessing I’ll willingly pick up any burden You hand me and carry it no matter the cost. A job that looks insignificant and inconsequential could turn out to be an incredibly important, life altering incident, and a divine encounter with You.
All around me are broken, traumatized, exhausted people who have stumbled and can’t get up. The weight of their cross is more than they can bear. Helping a scorned person carry his or her humiliation will likely hinder my plans and dreams. It will certainly require sacrifice. It may be degrading and out of my comfort zone. At the same time, it may be the most honorable, significant assignment I ever receive. Please dear Lord, press me into service today. I will obey to honor and glorify Your name. Amen.
Whose cross can you carry today? Open the eyes of your heart and look around. There are hurting people every where. Stop whatever you’re doing. Pick up their cross and walk in the name of Jesus. Just as Christ walked with Simon, He’ll walk with you. That irritating interruption, may be one of the greatest honors you’ll ever receive.
Jesus said, "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me." Luke 9:23
32 As they were on the way, they came across a man named Simon, who was from Cyrene, and they forced him to carry Jesus’ cross. 33 Then they went out to a place called Golgotha (which means Skull Hill). 34 The soldiers gave him wine mixed with bitter gall, but when he had tasted it, he refused to drink it. 35 After they had nailed him to the cross. NLT
Jesus, Son of God,
Thank You for the wonderful image You’ve given me through Simon of Cyrene. An unimportant, ordinary man, he happened to stop at a dramatic scene, and was pressed into service by the tap of the Roman’s soldier’s broad sword. Little did he know when he stopped to watch the drama unfold, that he’d be forced to participate in an unwanted, unplanned, and unglamorous assignment that would radically reshape the remainder of his life. Undoubtedly, he had no idea that the command he’d been given to carry Your cross would be one of the greatest honors ever given to a human being. Certainly, he didn’t expect a divine encounter when he left home that morning. Pressed into service, he had no choice but to lay aside his plans and obey.
Lord, if you tap me on the shoulder with the Sword of Your Word and compel me to carry a burden for You, I want to be like Simon of Cyrene. He wasn’t chosen because he was pious, strong or faithful. He was chosen simply because he was in the right place at the right time. He may have grudging obliged. However, seeing his blessing I’ll willingly pick up any burden You hand me and carry it no matter the cost. A job that looks insignificant and inconsequential could turn out to be an incredibly important, life altering incident, and a divine encounter with You.
All around me are broken, traumatized, exhausted people who have stumbled and can’t get up. The weight of their cross is more than they can bear. Helping a scorned person carry his or her humiliation will likely hinder my plans and dreams. It will certainly require sacrifice. It may be degrading and out of my comfort zone. At the same time, it may be the most honorable, significant assignment I ever receive. Please dear Lord, press me into service today. I will obey to honor and glorify Your name. Amen.
Whose cross can you carry today? Open the eyes of your heart and look around. There are hurting people every where. Stop whatever you’re doing. Pick up their cross and walk in the name of Jesus. Just as Christ walked with Simon, He’ll walk with you. That irritating interruption, may be one of the greatest honors you’ll ever receive.
Jesus said, "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me." Luke 9:23
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
Healed By His Wounds
1 Peter 2: 21-24
21To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.
22"He committed no sin,
and no deceit was found in his mouth."
23When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly. 24He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed.
Jesus, My Redeemer,
Thank You for revealing the truth of my sin and my despicable, depraved condition that led You to the cross. Because You suffered for me, I’m called to suffer for You. It’s the debt of love, Paul refers to in Romans 13:8. Clothed in Your love and filled with Your power when others:
21To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.
22"He committed no sin,
and no deceit was found in his mouth."
23When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly. 24He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed.
Jesus, My Redeemer,
Thank You for revealing the truth of my sin and my despicable, depraved condition that led You to the cross. Because You suffered for me, I’m called to suffer for You. It’s the debt of love, Paul refers to in Romans 13:8. Clothed in Your love and filled with Your power when others:
- Strip and offend me, exposing my shame, I won’t retaliate
- Twist the truth and prick my mind with thorns, I won’t be deceived
- Mock and make fun of me for my faith, I’ll stand firm and steadfast
- Spew filth from their mouth that insults me, I won’t spit back
- Beat and hurt me, I won’t seek revenge
Instead, I’ll follow Your example and trust You, the One and Only Fair Judge who rules over all authority in heaven and earth. Like You, I want to love my neighbor and pray for those who hate me.
Thank You for personally carrying the wounds of my sins and the filth of my spit on Your body to the cross so that I could die to sin and live for what is right. For that reason, I humbly bow at the foot of the cross today, allowing the Living Water from the wound in Your side to purify the sewer deep within me, and the blood from Your wounds to drip down and cover every mistake I’ve ever made and ever will make. By Your wounds I am healed and by Your grace, I’m able to follow Your example, exercising self-control on my own journey to the cross for the glory of Your name. Amen.
The death was for us. He can heal us – even the most broken of us. He can meticulously pick up all the shattered pieces of our lives and put them back together. He can change us – even the worst of us. He can open the gates of heaven and give us a glimpse of eternity so that, by faith, we’ll walk steadfastly toward whatever lies ahead. And, He will. He will if we humble ourselves at the foot of the cross. Have you? Have you turned to the One who can heal and restore you?
Jesus said, "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me." Luke 9:23
Tuesday, April 11, 2006
The Depravity of Man
Matthew 27:27-31
27Then the governor's soldiers took Jesus into the Praetorium and gathered the whole company of soldiers around him. 28They stripped him and put a scarlet robe on him, 29and then twisted together a crown of thorns and set it on his head. They put a staff in his right hand and knelt in front of him and mocked him. "Hail, king of the Jews!" they said. 30They spit on him, and took the staff and struck him on the head again and again. 31After they had mocked him, they took off the robe and put his own clothes on him. Then they led him away to crucify him.
Dear Jesus,
These verses send chills down my spine and bring tears to my eyes. How could they do this to You, my tender, gentle and kind Friend? You’ve never done anything wrong! Sadly, the atrocious behavior I see in the Roman soldiers, is true of me too. Running deep within my soul is a cesspool seeping with foulness, ugliness and self-righteous.
I strip You by committing sins that embarrass others, exposing their shame. Judging, gossiping, and insulting others strips both You and them of dignity. Full of pride, I can’t admit my mistakes and failures. Lying and blaming someone else is disgraceful. Cynicism and sarcasm is humiliating.
Sins that prick my mind are the thorns the pierced Your sacred brow. Worry, unbelief, and anxiety stab You. Movies, music, television and magazines used for my entertainment jab You. Greed, envy, and bitterness poke You. The truth can be so easily twisted into a crown of prickly thorns.
I mock You when I’m hypocritical and deceitful. Failing to spend time with You praying and reading my Bible is a form of scoffing. Taking Your name in vain is a means of jeering. All the pleasures and treasures I worship more than You are a type of sneering.
Spit is the filth that spews from my heart out of my mouth. The hateful, profane words I speak to others, I spit on You. You are splattered with the disgusting saliva of my arrogance, complaining and ungratefulness.
Sin that hurts others beats You. Lifting my hand in anger, I’ve not only struck the offender, but also You. Lusting or flirting with someone other my spouse is not only a blow to him/her but also a blow to You. You’re beaten by my critical spirit and unforgiving heart. You’re battered by my emotional, physical and spiritual adultery.
Lord, I’m sorry for standing with the Roman soldiers who scorned You, derided You, and ridiculed You. I can’t believe I was there subjecting You to the cruelest degradation. There is a beast within me capable of the meanest, roughest words and actions. Thank You for personally carrying the wounds of my sins and the filth of my spit on Your sacred body all the way to the cross.
I can’t bear to think of the pain I’ve caused You and still do. Please forgive me and tame the beast within me by Your almighty power. Amen.
All of us are capable of the cruelest, meanest acts. Jesus said, "I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me." (Matthew 25:40) Today I’m choosing to reflect on the ugliness of my natural state, so that I can truly appreciate God’s immeasurable love on Easter Sunday.
27Then the governor's soldiers took Jesus into the Praetorium and gathered the whole company of soldiers around him. 28They stripped him and put a scarlet robe on him, 29and then twisted together a crown of thorns and set it on his head. They put a staff in his right hand and knelt in front of him and mocked him. "Hail, king of the Jews!" they said. 30They spit on him, and took the staff and struck him on the head again and again. 31After they had mocked him, they took off the robe and put his own clothes on him. Then they led him away to crucify him.
Dear Jesus,
These verses send chills down my spine and bring tears to my eyes. How could they do this to You, my tender, gentle and kind Friend? You’ve never done anything wrong! Sadly, the atrocious behavior I see in the Roman soldiers, is true of me too. Running deep within my soul is a cesspool seeping with foulness, ugliness and self-righteous.
I strip You by committing sins that embarrass others, exposing their shame. Judging, gossiping, and insulting others strips both You and them of dignity. Full of pride, I can’t admit my mistakes and failures. Lying and blaming someone else is disgraceful. Cynicism and sarcasm is humiliating.
Sins that prick my mind are the thorns the pierced Your sacred brow. Worry, unbelief, and anxiety stab You. Movies, music, television and magazines used for my entertainment jab You. Greed, envy, and bitterness poke You. The truth can be so easily twisted into a crown of prickly thorns.
I mock You when I’m hypocritical and deceitful. Failing to spend time with You praying and reading my Bible is a form of scoffing. Taking Your name in vain is a means of jeering. All the pleasures and treasures I worship more than You are a type of sneering.
Spit is the filth that spews from my heart out of my mouth. The hateful, profane words I speak to others, I spit on You. You are splattered with the disgusting saliva of my arrogance, complaining and ungratefulness.
Sin that hurts others beats You. Lifting my hand in anger, I’ve not only struck the offender, but also You. Lusting or flirting with someone other my spouse is not only a blow to him/her but also a blow to You. You’re beaten by my critical spirit and unforgiving heart. You’re battered by my emotional, physical and spiritual adultery.
Lord, I’m sorry for standing with the Roman soldiers who scorned You, derided You, and ridiculed You. I can’t believe I was there subjecting You to the cruelest degradation. There is a beast within me capable of the meanest, roughest words and actions. Thank You for personally carrying the wounds of my sins and the filth of my spit on Your sacred body all the way to the cross.
I can’t bear to think of the pain I’ve caused You and still do. Please forgive me and tame the beast within me by Your almighty power. Amen.
All of us are capable of the cruelest, meanest acts. Jesus said, "I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me." (Matthew 25:40) Today I’m choosing to reflect on the ugliness of my natural state, so that I can truly appreciate God’s immeasurable love on Easter Sunday.
Monday, April 10, 2006
Journey To The Cross
Luke 9: 51As the time approached for him to be taken up to heaven, Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem.
Jesus,
Name above all names, beautiful Savior, glorious Lord. I am awe of You and Your journey to greatness. I am deeply humbled and terribly convicted. You knew what was waiting for you in Jerusalem: betrayal, rejection, suffering and ultimately death on the cross; yet you set your face resolutely on the challenge and conquered it. Despite the anticipation and expectation of excruciating pain and suffering you humbly moved forward steadfastly, with determination to become obedient to death to bring many children to glory.
Forgive me for avoiding the difficult journey. Forgive me for all the detours I take in order to avoid betrayal, rejection, suffering and even death to self. Help me dear Lord, to choose the highway of humility. The voyage is excruciatingly painful but the destination is sweet. The journey is long – life long. I grow tired and weary from exerting my own energy. By Your grace and power, I will deny myself daily and take up my cross and follow you with steadfast determination to reach the goal for which you have called me. Let this mind be in me that was also in Christ Jesus ... that mind which focused on the glorious final destination in the New Jerusalem. Amen.
Jesus said, "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me." Luke 9:23
Jesus,
Name above all names, beautiful Savior, glorious Lord. I am awe of You and Your journey to greatness. I am deeply humbled and terribly convicted. You knew what was waiting for you in Jerusalem: betrayal, rejection, suffering and ultimately death on the cross; yet you set your face resolutely on the challenge and conquered it. Despite the anticipation and expectation of excruciating pain and suffering you humbly moved forward steadfastly, with determination to become obedient to death to bring many children to glory.
Forgive me for avoiding the difficult journey. Forgive me for all the detours I take in order to avoid betrayal, rejection, suffering and even death to self. Help me dear Lord, to choose the highway of humility. The voyage is excruciatingly painful but the destination is sweet. The journey is long – life long. I grow tired and weary from exerting my own energy. By Your grace and power, I will deny myself daily and take up my cross and follow you with steadfast determination to reach the goal for which you have called me. Let this mind be in me that was also in Christ Jesus ... that mind which focused on the glorious final destination in the New Jerusalem. Amen.
Jesus said, "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me." Luke 9:23
Friday, April 07, 2006
The Depth of Love
Ephesians 3:14-19
14For this reason I kneel before the Father, 15from whom his whole family in heaven and on earth derives its name. 16I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
I kneel before You Father astonished by the rich gifts You’ve lavished on me: the family name, the family image and the family fortune. Being chosen and adopted into Your family is the highest honor and greatest privilege I’ll ever receive. Nothing else will ever come close.
Today I’m claiming the priceless family promise of power to change the way I think and perceive myself. You don’t see me the way I see myself: unattractive, unworthy, and unlovable. You see me as Your beloved child. Please give me faith to believe and power to grasp:
The width of Your love: wide enough to reach the whole wide world, while also touching the homosexual, the prostitute, the adulterer, the murderer, the addict, the abuser, the abused, the obsessed, the rich, the poor and much wider than I can imagine.
The length of Your love: long enough to cover my entire life, longer than my rebellion, hatefulness, apathy, arrogance, ignorance, and much longer than I can visualize.
The depth of Your love: deep enough to feel my severely broken heart that no one else understands, deeper than my insecurities and fears, and still deeper than I could ever dream.
The height of Your love: high enough to stretch from heaven to earth to show me the way to all Your hidden treasures and higher than my simple mind can possibly understand.
Father, if I could comprehend and claim Your limitless love, then I’d look to You and You alone for love. I’d stop seeking approval from my parents, spouse, children, and friends. I wouldn’t fill my life with trinkets and treasures. I’d no longer crave the desires and lifestyle that once held me captive. I’d long for You and You alone.
Dear Lord, please fill me to overflowing with the inexhaustible love of Jesus today. With all my heart, I want to receive and accept the infinite love You bestow on Your children for the glory of Your name forever and ever. Amen.
Have you received and accepted God’s lavish gift of love, promised to His children? He’s not waiting for you to be perfect. It’s yours to claim today, just as you are. If you don’t feel worthy of accepting it, please pray and ask Him to give you the power to accept it. It’s a life changing gift.
14For this reason I kneel before the Father, 15from whom his whole family in heaven and on earth derives its name. 16I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
I kneel before You Father astonished by the rich gifts You’ve lavished on me: the family name, the family image and the family fortune. Being chosen and adopted into Your family is the highest honor and greatest privilege I’ll ever receive. Nothing else will ever come close.
Today I’m claiming the priceless family promise of power to change the way I think and perceive myself. You don’t see me the way I see myself: unattractive, unworthy, and unlovable. You see me as Your beloved child. Please give me faith to believe and power to grasp:
The width of Your love: wide enough to reach the whole wide world, while also touching the homosexual, the prostitute, the adulterer, the murderer, the addict, the abuser, the abused, the obsessed, the rich, the poor and much wider than I can imagine.
The length of Your love: long enough to cover my entire life, longer than my rebellion, hatefulness, apathy, arrogance, ignorance, and much longer than I can visualize.
The depth of Your love: deep enough to feel my severely broken heart that no one else understands, deeper than my insecurities and fears, and still deeper than I could ever dream.
The height of Your love: high enough to stretch from heaven to earth to show me the way to all Your hidden treasures and higher than my simple mind can possibly understand.
Father, if I could comprehend and claim Your limitless love, then I’d look to You and You alone for love. I’d stop seeking approval from my parents, spouse, children, and friends. I wouldn’t fill my life with trinkets and treasures. I’d no longer crave the desires and lifestyle that once held me captive. I’d long for You and You alone.
Dear Lord, please fill me to overflowing with the inexhaustible love of Jesus today. With all my heart, I want to receive and accept the infinite love You bestow on Your children for the glory of Your name forever and ever. Amen.
Have you received and accepted God’s lavish gift of love, promised to His children? He’s not waiting for you to be perfect. It’s yours to claim today, just as you are. If you don’t feel worthy of accepting it, please pray and ask Him to give you the power to accept it. It’s a life changing gift.
Thursday, April 06, 2006
The Debt of Love
Romans 13:8-14
8Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for he who loves his fellowman has fulfilled the law. 9The commandments, "Do not commit adultery," "Do not murder," "Do not steal," "Do not covet," and whatever other commandment there may be, are summed up in this one rule: "Love your neighbor as yourself." 10Love does no harm to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.
11And do this, understanding the present time. The hour has come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. 12The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. 13Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. 14Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature.
Lord of Love,
The only way I can begin to pay You back for Your infinite love is to love others. In love You came down from heaven to bless, choose, adopt, accept, redeem, and forgive me while I was unattractive, unworthy, and unlovable. The least I can do is obey You.
8Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for he who loves his fellowman has fulfilled the law. 9The commandments, "Do not commit adultery," "Do not murder," "Do not steal," "Do not covet," and whatever other commandment there may be, are summed up in this one rule: "Love your neighbor as yourself." 10Love does no harm to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.
11And do this, understanding the present time. The hour has come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. 12The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. 13Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. 14Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature.
Lord of Love,
The only way I can begin to pay You back for Your infinite love is to love others. In love You came down from heaven to bless, choose, adopt, accept, redeem, and forgive me while I was unattractive, unworthy, and unlovable. The least I can do is obey You.
- I won’t let myself starve; therefore, I need to feed the hungry.
- I make sure that I’m properly clothed before leaving the house; therefore, I’m expected to dress the destitute.
- I put a warm and cozy roof over my head; therefore, I’m required to find shelter for the homeless.
- I don’t want to be cheated or deceived; therefore, it’s necessary for me to be honest and fair to others.
- I despise being stabbed with hateful, hurtful words; therefore, I can’t kill the spirits of others with my own unkind works.
- I’d be angry if someone tried to interfere with my marriage; therefore, I’m obligated to stay out of someone else’s marriage.
- I don’t want anyone to covet my possessions; therefore, I can’t be jealous when someone has something bigger or better than me.
The only way I can properly respond to Your immeasurable, inexhaustible love is to behave decently as a Christian child by fully obeying Your law of love. Please dear Lord, clothe me with power and love to make a difference where it matters today because tomorrow may be too late. Open my eyes to see someone who needs love today and I will obey no matter the cost because I appreciate the high price of the love You lavished on me. To You who rules on the throne on my heart forever and ever be the glory. Amen.
In light of God’s incredible gift of love given to you, what will you do today to obey His command to love your neighbor as yourself? Admit your own selfishness. Repent and reach out in love to someone in a difficult situation. Do it today because tomorrow may be too late.
Today I will reach out in love by _________________________________ as a token of appreciation for the high price Jesus paid for my pardon. I will do it today because tomorrow may be too late.
Wednesday, April 05, 2006
Authority Established by God
Romans 13:1
Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.
Most High Ruler~
All power and authority has been established by You: honest and corrupt, good and evil, democratic and autocratic, right and wrong. All authority in heaven and earth belongs to You. Looking back at ancient History, I can see how You work through wicked regimes:
Lord, You are the Most High and Sovereign King, the Only Righteous Ruler. When I’m faced by unjust authority, fill me with the Holy Spirit to stand up in power, submit to their rule, and trust You to defend me with words and wisdom. With You enthroned on my heart, I have no reason to fear man. Please give me more faith to believe that You will stand with me through trials, torment and torture. Please give me more power to testify to the Truth, proclaiming the name of Jesus, my Savior. Amen.
Jesus promises that things are going to get a lot worse before they get better. What can you do today to prepare to submit to the authorities during your trials, torment and torture of tomorrow?
[a] Luke 21:12-15
[b] Acts 4:1-22, 5:17-42
Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.
Most High Ruler~
All power and authority has been established by You: honest and corrupt, good and evil, democratic and autocratic, right and wrong. All authority in heaven and earth belongs to You. Looking back at ancient History, I can see how You work through wicked regimes:
- If You hadn’t established the evil government of Pharaoh, then you couldn’t have shown Your strength to part the Red Sea and deliver the Israelites from his wicked rule.
- If You hadn’t set-up the corrupt government of Pontius Pilate, You couldn’t have fulfilled Your plan to save the world through the death of Your dear Son.
Jesus clearly teaches that we should expect to be arrested, hunted down, and thrown in jail because we carry Your family name. On the witness stand, rather than worrying, we should trust Your promise to give us words and wisdom that will reduce our accusers to stammers and stutters.[a]
Again, all we have to do is look back at History and learn from the apostles who submitted to hateful leaders. When Peter and John were taken captive for showing kindness, they didn’t rebel or revolt. Instead, filled with the Holy Spirit, they testified to the Truth, proclaiming the name of Jesus. The authorities were left speechless and perplexed. The apostles chose to obey God’s authority at all costs. They were tormented and tortured, but didn’t vacillate in their testimony about repentance and forgiveness.[b]
Lord, You are the Most High and Sovereign King, the Only Righteous Ruler. When I’m faced by unjust authority, fill me with the Holy Spirit to stand up in power, submit to their rule, and trust You to defend me with words and wisdom. With You enthroned on my heart, I have no reason to fear man. Please give me more faith to believe that You will stand with me through trials, torment and torture. Please give me more power to testify to the Truth, proclaiming the name of Jesus, my Savior. Amen.
Jesus promises that things are going to get a lot worse before they get better. What can you do today to prepare to submit to the authorities during your trials, torment and torture of tomorrow?
[a] Luke 21:12-15
[b] Acts 4:1-22, 5:17-42
Tuesday, April 04, 2006
Think Lovely Thoughts
Philippians 4:4-8
4Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
8Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
Lord of Love,
Thank You for Your truth, righteousness and purity. You are beautiful beyond description. Gazing on Your majesty, I rejoice at Your radiance and splendor. As I present my requests to You today with a thankful heart please replace my anxiety with perfect peace. Guard my heart and mind with lovely thoughts of You and who I am in You: You are the only Truth. You are a noble King who has chosen and adopted me to live in Your glorious kingdom eternally! You are blameless and have given me extravagant gifts including an elegant robe of righteousness to cover my sin and shame. You are pure and have given me free, unlimited access to Your beauty bar where my life is made lovely and admirable in the light of Your glory and grace.
Please dear Lord, draw my face up to Yours today. Let me gaze upon Your loveliness and be filled with Your perfect peace. Amen.
List as many beautiful characteristics of God as you can think of. Carry the list with you this week, praising Him all the day long as you mediate on it. Your anxiety will turn to peace as you fix your eyes on the majesty of the Most High King, Jesus.
4Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
8Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
Lord of Love,
Thank You for Your truth, righteousness and purity. You are beautiful beyond description. Gazing on Your majesty, I rejoice at Your radiance and splendor. As I present my requests to You today with a thankful heart please replace my anxiety with perfect peace. Guard my heart and mind with lovely thoughts of You and who I am in You: You are the only Truth. You are a noble King who has chosen and adopted me to live in Your glorious kingdom eternally! You are blameless and have given me extravagant gifts including an elegant robe of righteousness to cover my sin and shame. You are pure and have given me free, unlimited access to Your beauty bar where my life is made lovely and admirable in the light of Your glory and grace.
Please dear Lord, draw my face up to Yours today. Let me gaze upon Your loveliness and be filled with Your perfect peace. Amen.
List as many beautiful characteristics of God as you can think of. Carry the list with you this week, praising Him all the day long as you mediate on it. Your anxiety will turn to peace as you fix your eyes on the majesty of the Most High King, Jesus.
Monday, April 03, 2006
Christian Family Rules
Romans 12:9-16
9Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
14Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. 16Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.
Father in Heaven~
Thank You for clearly posting the Christian Family Rules:
At my home there are rules posted on the refrigerator door. We expect our children to obey them. It’s not always easy. Likewise, God has posted rules for us to obey.
Which of these rules do you have a hard time obeying? Ask God to fill you with more of His power to overcome your selfish desires. Then, look for an opportunity to enthusiastically serve someone in a difficult situation.
Today I will lay aside my selfish desires and love ______________________________ in the name of Jesus. (fill in the name of someone whom you will show God’s love.)
9Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
14Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. 16Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.
Father in Heaven~
Thank You for clearly posting the Christian Family Rules:
- Unconditionally love your brothers and sisters even when they’re unlovable, undeserving, and unresponsive
- Don’t feed your mind evil thoughts; instead fill it with things that are good, righteousness, and pure.
- Lay aside selfishness; delight in treating each other with respect and common courtesy.
- Never give up!
- Serve me enthusiastically.
- Persevere under pressure.
- Let your hope of heaven make you glad.
- Never stop praying.
- Take care of each other.
- Welcome strangers into your home.
- Ask me to bless everyone who mistreats you.
- Be happy when others are happy.
- Be sad when others are sad.
- Be friendly with everyone.
- Don’t be proud.
- Be willing to do menial tasks.
- Be willing to interact with people who are different from you.
- Don’t be a know it all.
At my home there are rules posted on the refrigerator door. We expect our children to obey them. It’s not always easy. Likewise, God has posted rules for us to obey.
Which of these rules do you have a hard time obeying? Ask God to fill you with more of His power to overcome your selfish desires. Then, look for an opportunity to enthusiastically serve someone in a difficult situation.
Today I will lay aside my selfish desires and love ______________________________ in the name of Jesus. (fill in the name of someone whom you will show God’s love.)
Friday, March 31, 2006
Vessels of Love
Romans 12:3-8
3For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you. 4Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, 5so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. 6We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. 7If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; 8if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.
O Great God,
I’m deeply grateful for all that You have given me. You’ve uniquely shaped me into a pleasantly perfect pot to pour out Your amazing love.
Glazed by Your glorious grace, I don’t want to think of myself higher than I ought. It’s only because You skillfully sculpted my mind with sacred Scriptures that I’m useful for service. Apart from You, I’m nothing but a hard-pressed, mindless object.
It’s an honor and privilege to be part of Your extravagant collection of fine art. I can’t begin to imagine the variety of vessels You’ve created:
Some are brushed with brilliant boldness to articulate Your Word, while others are simply stroked to serve.
Some are tinted to teach while others are embossed with encouragement.
Some are colored generously to contribute to the needs of others, while others are diligently decorated to lead.
Some are filled with more faith, while others are made with more mercy.
Each vibrant vessel in Your gallery is glazed to reflect the light of Your love. Each one is exceptional, expensive and serves an extraordinary purpose. Together we make an exquisite collection.
Dear Lord, with heartfelt devotion, I dedicate my distinctive design to You for service in Your kingdom. You made me and You are my rightful Owner. Wherever You need me to go I will go. Whatever You need me to do I will do. Please dear Lord, make me a blessing today for the praise of Your name. Amen.
God has made me colorful and bold to articulate His Word. I will use my distinctive design to serve Him by writing the Prayer Pal daily for the glory of His name.
God has made me __________________________ to ________________________.
I will use my distinctive design to serve Him by ________________________________.
3For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you. 4Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, 5so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. 6We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. 7If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; 8if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.
O Great God,
I’m deeply grateful for all that You have given me. You’ve uniquely shaped me into a pleasantly perfect pot to pour out Your amazing love.
Glazed by Your glorious grace, I don’t want to think of myself higher than I ought. It’s only because You skillfully sculpted my mind with sacred Scriptures that I’m useful for service. Apart from You, I’m nothing but a hard-pressed, mindless object.
It’s an honor and privilege to be part of Your extravagant collection of fine art. I can’t begin to imagine the variety of vessels You’ve created:
Some are brushed with brilliant boldness to articulate Your Word, while others are simply stroked to serve.
Some are tinted to teach while others are embossed with encouragement.
Some are colored generously to contribute to the needs of others, while others are diligently decorated to lead.
Some are filled with more faith, while others are made with more mercy.
Each vibrant vessel in Your gallery is glazed to reflect the light of Your love. Each one is exceptional, expensive and serves an extraordinary purpose. Together we make an exquisite collection.
Dear Lord, with heartfelt devotion, I dedicate my distinctive design to You for service in Your kingdom. You made me and You are my rightful Owner. Wherever You need me to go I will go. Whatever You need me to do I will do. Please dear Lord, make me a blessing today for the praise of Your name. Amen.
God has made me colorful and bold to articulate His Word. I will use my distinctive design to serve Him by writing the Prayer Pal daily for the glory of His name.
God has made me __________________________ to ________________________.
I will use my distinctive design to serve Him by ________________________________.
Thursday, March 30, 2006
The Master Artist
Romans 12:2
Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
O Great God,
You are the most famous artist of all time. I could search the whole wide world and find no one as creative or talented as You.
Unscrupulous con artists continually corrupt Your creation. The world presses people into cookie cutter patterns that perform for power, possessions and pleasure. It uses symbols of status to stamp us with success. When we conform to their hard pressed image we become heartless, mindless and lifeless like plastic toys and trinkets.
You however, have a unique technique for sculpting original works of art that are eternally beautiful, valuable and useful. All we have to do is stay soft and pliable in Your meticulous hands every day. Throughout the lifelong process, our eyes will turn toward You, our Designer, when we open our Bibles. Meditating on Your sacred Scriptures will form our true character. They’ll expose the rough spots of rebellion that need to be scraped away. They’ll correct our cracks, flaws, and blemishes. They’ll squeeze us and change us into Your perfect plan. Through the heat of life we’ll come out of the fiery furnace uniquely shaped and glazed with Your glorious grace.
With Your Holy Word permanently etched on my heart, my mind will be altered to live Your way. Please don’t let con artists squeeze me into the rigid mold of the world. I want to remain soft and pliable in Your skillful hand where I can be created into a pleasantly perfect pot to pour out Your extraordinary love. Please dear Lord, transform my mind today, making me an eternally beautiful, valuable vessel for the praise of Your most creative name. Amen.
What pattern of the world is pressing you today? What will you do differently to prevent con artists from corrupting you?
Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
O Great God,
You are the most famous artist of all time. I could search the whole wide world and find no one as creative or talented as You.
Unscrupulous con artists continually corrupt Your creation. The world presses people into cookie cutter patterns that perform for power, possessions and pleasure. It uses symbols of status to stamp us with success. When we conform to their hard pressed image we become heartless, mindless and lifeless like plastic toys and trinkets.
You however, have a unique technique for sculpting original works of art that are eternally beautiful, valuable and useful. All we have to do is stay soft and pliable in Your meticulous hands every day. Throughout the lifelong process, our eyes will turn toward You, our Designer, when we open our Bibles. Meditating on Your sacred Scriptures will form our true character. They’ll expose the rough spots of rebellion that need to be scraped away. They’ll correct our cracks, flaws, and blemishes. They’ll squeeze us and change us into Your perfect plan. Through the heat of life we’ll come out of the fiery furnace uniquely shaped and glazed with Your glorious grace.
With Your Holy Word permanently etched on my heart, my mind will be altered to live Your way. Please don’t let con artists squeeze me into the rigid mold of the world. I want to remain soft and pliable in Your skillful hand where I can be created into a pleasantly perfect pot to pour out Your extraordinary love. Please dear Lord, transform my mind today, making me an eternally beautiful, valuable vessel for the praise of Your most creative name. Amen.
What pattern of the world is pressing you today? What will you do differently to prevent con artists from corrupting you?
Wednesday, March 29, 2006
A Living Sacrifice
Romans 12:1
Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship.
Merciful King,
Up close and personal, I stand in awe of the expanse of Your magnificent mercy:
In view of Your magnificent mercy, I’ll intentionally stop and share Christ’s love and leniency every chance I get. Please dear Lord, don’t let me miss any opportunity in my busy day to worship You. In the power of Your Spirit, I’ll willingly give up all my ambitions and desires to walk and work with You for the praise of Your merciful, loving, redeeming name. Not my will, but Yours be done. Amen.
How has God shown his mercy to you? In view of His mercy, how will you respond?
I will worship him by ________________________________________. Don’t just think about it, do it!
Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship.
Merciful King,
Up close and personal, I stand in awe of the expanse of Your magnificent mercy:
- I’m enthralled by Your never ending patience
- I’m surprised that You would pardon me from the penalty for my sin
- I’m astonished that You would purchase a hateful, hostile enemy like me with Your precious blood
- I’m absorbed by Your power that purifies me
- I’m attracted to the perfect peace in Your presence
- I’m overwhelmed by Your faithfulness to Your promises
- I’m perplexed that You foreknew, chose, predestined, called and glorified me
- I’m delighted that You adopted me, just as I am, wretched and weak, to be Your dearly loved child
In view of Your unending compassion, I will take time to be holy, joyfully dedicating my entire life to Your service. Every day as I perform my regular routine I want the watching world to see me worshipping You in the beauty of holiness.
- I’ll dress in humility and love in the morning when I rise.
- I’ll tenderly love and gently speak to my children rather than being harsh and agitated
- I’ll build up my spouse with words of encouragement instead of cutting him (her) with criticism.
- I’ll go to work with a smile on my face because my identity isn’t in my mundane job, but is in who I am in You.
- I’ll not only endure and tolerate difficult people and situations, but I’ll show them Your love and kindness.
- I’ll drive peacefully down the highway, ignoring rude and outrageous drivers.
- I’ll quiet my competitive spirit during recreational activities, allowing others to win, knowing that I’ve already won the Grand Prize – You!
In view of Your magnificent mercy, I’ll intentionally stop and share Christ’s love and leniency every chance I get. Please dear Lord, don’t let me miss any opportunity in my busy day to worship You. In the power of Your Spirit, I’ll willingly give up all my ambitions and desires to walk and work with You for the praise of Your merciful, loving, redeeming name. Not my will, but Yours be done. Amen.
How has God shown his mercy to you? In view of His mercy, how will you respond?
I will worship him by ________________________________________. Don’t just think about it, do it!
Tuesday, March 28, 2006
A Vast View of God
Romans 11: 33-36
33Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God!
How unsearchable his judgments,
and his paths beyond tracing out!
34"Who has known the mind of the Lord?
Or who has been his counselor?"
35"Who has ever given to God,
that God should repay him?"
36For from him and through him and to him are all things.
To him be the glory forever! Amen.
Wise and Knowledgeable King,
Please expand my view of You. From afar, You are an intriguing blip on the horizon. Reduced by distance, You are too manageable to be marvelous and too small to be significant. However, as I come closer, I am absolutely astonished by the vast view of who You are and what You have done for me.
What is your view of God? Do you see Him from a distance and unapproachable, or up close and touchable? Walk nearer to Him and He will expand Your view. One thing I see when I come nearer to God is ________________________________.
33Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God!
How unsearchable his judgments,
and his paths beyond tracing out!
34"Who has known the mind of the Lord?
Or who has been his counselor?"
35"Who has ever given to God,
that God should repay him?"
36For from him and through him and to him are all things.
To him be the glory forever! Amen.
Wise and Knowledgeable King,
Please expand my view of You. From afar, You are an intriguing blip on the horizon. Reduced by distance, You are too manageable to be marvelous and too small to be significant. However, as I come closer, I am absolutely astonished by the vast view of who You are and what You have done for me.
- I marvel at Your extravagance and generosity
- I’m awestruck by Your wisdom and knowledge
- I’m mesmerized by the hidden treasures in Your Word
- I wonder at Your pathways that are too complex to chart
- I’m amazed at Your never-ending brilliant mind
- I’m captivated with Your constant rightness
- I’m stunned at Your unlimited resources
What is your view of God? Do you see Him from a distance and unapproachable, or up close and touchable? Walk nearer to Him and He will expand Your view. One thing I see when I come nearer to God is ________________________________.
Monday, March 27, 2006
Grafted In
Romans 11:17-24
17If some of the branches have been broken off, and you, though a wild olive shoot, have been grafted in among the others and now share in the nourishing sap from the olive root, 18do not boast over those branches. If you do, consider this: You do not support the root, but the root supports you. 19You will say then, "Branches were broken off so that I could be grafted in." 20Granted. But they were broken off because of unbelief, and you stand by faith. Do not be arrogant, but be afraid. 21For if God did not spare the natural branches, he will not spare you either.
22Consider therefore the kindness and sternness of God: sternness to those who fell, but kindness to you, provided that you continue in his kindness. Otherwise, you also will be cut off. 23And if they do not persist in unbelief, they will be grafted in, for God is able to graft them in again. 24After all, if you were cut out of an olive tree that is wild by nature, and contrary to nature were grafted into a cultivated olive tree, how much more readily will these, the natural branches, be grafted into their own olive tree!
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for another wonderful word picture to teach me who You are, and who I am. You are the Divine Gardner. Jesus is the solid trunk with deep roots, wounded for me. I am nothing but a dead branch that’s been gently and graciously grafted to Him. Completely connected to You, the sap of Your Spirit nourishes every part of my being – heart, mind, and soul. Drinking from the deep spring of Living Water, I’ll grow in Your everlasting light and never die. Saturated with the fertilizer of Your Word, I'll produce luscious fruit for You.
Though I stand tall, radiant and confident, I have no grounds for bragging. Apart from You I’m nothing but deadwood. I’m totally dependent on Your strong root system to give me abundant life. I know that You will ruthlessly cut off every unproductive limb and preserve it for future grafting.
O Holy Gardener, prune me and clip me, even though it hurts. Shape me into the fruitful branch You want me to be. Cultivate me to produce baskets full of sweet succulent fruit to adorn Your glorious temple. In Your hands, carefully and skillfully tend to my branch making me the shoot that displays changed lives for the glory and splendor of Your name. Amen.
The only reason you’re on the Divine Tree is because your graft "took:" when you believed, and because you’re connected to the belief-nurturing root. So, don’t be cocky or arrogant. How can you be humbly mindful of the root that gives you life?
17If some of the branches have been broken off, and you, though a wild olive shoot, have been grafted in among the others and now share in the nourishing sap from the olive root, 18do not boast over those branches. If you do, consider this: You do not support the root, but the root supports you. 19You will say then, "Branches were broken off so that I could be grafted in." 20Granted. But they were broken off because of unbelief, and you stand by faith. Do not be arrogant, but be afraid. 21For if God did not spare the natural branches, he will not spare you either.
22Consider therefore the kindness and sternness of God: sternness to those who fell, but kindness to you, provided that you continue in his kindness. Otherwise, you also will be cut off. 23And if they do not persist in unbelief, they will be grafted in, for God is able to graft them in again. 24After all, if you were cut out of an olive tree that is wild by nature, and contrary to nature were grafted into a cultivated olive tree, how much more readily will these, the natural branches, be grafted into their own olive tree!
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for another wonderful word picture to teach me who You are, and who I am. You are the Divine Gardner. Jesus is the solid trunk with deep roots, wounded for me. I am nothing but a dead branch that’s been gently and graciously grafted to Him. Completely connected to You, the sap of Your Spirit nourishes every part of my being – heart, mind, and soul. Drinking from the deep spring of Living Water, I’ll grow in Your everlasting light and never die. Saturated with the fertilizer of Your Word, I'll produce luscious fruit for You.
Though I stand tall, radiant and confident, I have no grounds for bragging. Apart from You I’m nothing but deadwood. I’m totally dependent on Your strong root system to give me abundant life. I know that You will ruthlessly cut off every unproductive limb and preserve it for future grafting.
O Holy Gardener, prune me and clip me, even though it hurts. Shape me into the fruitful branch You want me to be. Cultivate me to produce baskets full of sweet succulent fruit to adorn Your glorious temple. In Your hands, carefully and skillfully tend to my branch making me the shoot that displays changed lives for the glory and splendor of Your name. Amen.
The only reason you’re on the Divine Tree is because your graft "took:" when you believed, and because you’re connected to the belief-nurturing root. So, don’t be cocky or arrogant. How can you be humbly mindful of the root that gives you life?
Friday, March 24, 2006
Alive, Safe & Free
Psalm 66:8-16
8 Praise our God, O peoples,
let the sound of his praise be heard;
9 he has preserved our lives
and kept our feet from slipping.
10 For you, O God, tested us;
you refined us like silver.
11 You brought us into prison
and laid burdens on our backs.
12 You let men ride over our heads;
we went through fire and water,
but you brought us to a place of abundance.
13 I will come to your temple with burnt offerings
and fulfill my vows to you-
14 vows my lips promised and my mouth spoke
when I was in trouble.
15 I will sacrifice fat animals to you
and an offering of rams;
I will offer bulls and goats.
16 Come and listen, all you who fear God;
let me tell you what he has done for me.
Great God~
I shout for joy and sing the glory of Your name! Your deeds are awesome and Your power is great! I have seen You, Lord! This is what You’ve done for me:
List all the ways God’s shown His mercy to you. Praise Him!
8 Praise our God, O peoples,
let the sound of his praise be heard;
9 he has preserved our lives
and kept our feet from slipping.
10 For you, O God, tested us;
you refined us like silver.
11 You brought us into prison
and laid burdens on our backs.
12 You let men ride over our heads;
we went through fire and water,
but you brought us to a place of abundance.
13 I will come to your temple with burnt offerings
and fulfill my vows to you-
14 vows my lips promised and my mouth spoke
when I was in trouble.
15 I will sacrifice fat animals to you
and an offering of rams;
I will offer bulls and goats.
16 Come and listen, all you who fear God;
let me tell you what he has done for me.
Great God~
I shout for joy and sing the glory of Your name! Your deeds are awesome and Your power is great! I have seen You, Lord! This is what You’ve done for me:
- You spoke to me loud and clear through Your Word, the Holy Bible. When I heard and believed, You saved me from despair and destruction.
- As I climbed out of the hole of horror, my feet began to slip, but You grabbed me firmly and prevented me from backsliding.
- You sent me into the fiery furnace and turned up the heat. Suffering through intense heat perfected my character, making me more precious and valuable.
- You brought me into bondage and laid many burdens on my back. In my weakness, Your strength was evident.
- You led me through many troubles, toils and snares, and by Your grace, You guided me safely to Your immaculate kingdom of rich blessings.
List all the ways God’s shown His mercy to you. Praise Him!
Thursday, March 23, 2006
He Watches Over Me
Jesus said, "Don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows." Luke 12: 7b
Jesus,
Your Word is wonderful! Thank You for the sparrows You send to our windows in the spring to remind us that we’re worth more than many sparrows! You are awesome!
Please don’t let me feel discouraged by the dark shadow I’m in. Don’t let my heart be lonely. Be my portion and constant Friend. Keep Your eye on me. Watch over me. Don’t let my heart be troubled. Let me hear You tenderly say, "Don’t be afraid, my child. You’re worth more than many sparrows." Let me rest on the goodness of your precious promise where doubt and fear will cease. Lead me through this dark valley by shining Your light ahead of me so that I can see and follow You.
Just as You’re eye is always on the sparrow, watch over me at all times. Within Your sight and light, let me sing joyfully. When I’m tempted to fear, when storm clouds arise, when songs give way to sighing, and when all the hope in my heart dies … remind me that I’m worth more to You than many sparrows. Draw me back to the Light and lead me safely until I reach heaven’s gate where You’ll welcome me home.
Please dear God, take away my fears today in the name of Jesus. Amen.
God Commands: Don’t be afraid
God Promises: You are worth more than many sparrows.
Do you believe God? Will you rest on His promise today?
Jesus,
Your Word is wonderful! Thank You for the sparrows You send to our windows in the spring to remind us that we’re worth more than many sparrows! You are awesome!
Please don’t let me feel discouraged by the dark shadow I’m in. Don’t let my heart be lonely. Be my portion and constant Friend. Keep Your eye on me. Watch over me. Don’t let my heart be troubled. Let me hear You tenderly say, "Don’t be afraid, my child. You’re worth more than many sparrows." Let me rest on the goodness of your precious promise where doubt and fear will cease. Lead me through this dark valley by shining Your light ahead of me so that I can see and follow You.
Just as You’re eye is always on the sparrow, watch over me at all times. Within Your sight and light, let me sing joyfully. When I’m tempted to fear, when storm clouds arise, when songs give way to sighing, and when all the hope in my heart dies … remind me that I’m worth more to You than many sparrows. Draw me back to the Light and lead me safely until I reach heaven’s gate where You’ll welcome me home.
Please dear God, take away my fears today in the name of Jesus. Amen.
God Commands: Don’t be afraid
God Promises: You are worth more than many sparrows.
Do you believe God? Will you rest on His promise today?
Wednesday, March 22, 2006
Beautiful Feet
Romans 10:15
15And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!"
Isaiah 52:7
How beautiful on the mountains
are the feet of those who bring good news,
who proclaim peace,
who bring good tidings,
who proclaim salvation,
who say to Zion,
"Your God reigns!"
Your Majesty,
I want to ascend the Most High and Holy Mountain into your pristine presence. I want to worship You on the perfect pinnacle of peace. My feet are sore and swollen from sojourning through sickness, suffering and sin. I don’t have strength to climb. If I have found favor with You, may I please have an appointment at Your Beauty Bar? I’m in dire need of a power pedicure!
Please pamper me with Your precious promises! Prepare me to scale the steep slope. Soak my stinging feet in the fountain of forgiveness flowing with pure water from the wound in Your side. Scrub away all the dead sin cells. Use the buffer of Your blood to buff away the burrs of bitterness. Cut away the calluses that clog my cold heart. Flush away the filthy odor from the fungus of unforgiveness.
Massage my aching feet with the sweet fragrant oil of the Holy Spirit. Stimulate them until they are soft and smooth. With a silky new layer of skin, alleviated of ailments, and improved circulation, my feet will be strong enough to safely and steadily climb to the pinnacle of Your presence.
From the Most High and Holy Mountain, I will shout the good news about how You found me and fixed me at the fountain of forgiveness. I will gleefully shout "My God reigns!" My glad greeting will lead others to You where they too will experience extravagant, exfoliating grace. With new heavenly souls, together, we will joyfully celebrate our healing.
Please dear Lord, bless my beautiful feet. Shape them for service and set them on a perfect path pleasing to You. Amen.
God gave me a power pedicure in the valley of death. My feet were sore and swollen. My heart ached like never before. It felt so good to let Him pamper me with His promises when I was weak. I came away strong enough to climb a mountain and shout, "My God is an awesome God! His love endures forever!"
If your feet are sore and swollen from sojourning through sickness, suffering and sin, make an appointment at God’s Beauty Bar for a power pedicure. Let the Prince of Peace pamper you with His promises and prepare you to climb into His presence. What will you tell the world about your experience?
15And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!"
Isaiah 52:7
How beautiful on the mountains
are the feet of those who bring good news,
who proclaim peace,
who bring good tidings,
who proclaim salvation,
who say to Zion,
"Your God reigns!"
Your Majesty,
I want to ascend the Most High and Holy Mountain into your pristine presence. I want to worship You on the perfect pinnacle of peace. My feet are sore and swollen from sojourning through sickness, suffering and sin. I don’t have strength to climb. If I have found favor with You, may I please have an appointment at Your Beauty Bar? I’m in dire need of a power pedicure!
Please pamper me with Your precious promises! Prepare me to scale the steep slope. Soak my stinging feet in the fountain of forgiveness flowing with pure water from the wound in Your side. Scrub away all the dead sin cells. Use the buffer of Your blood to buff away the burrs of bitterness. Cut away the calluses that clog my cold heart. Flush away the filthy odor from the fungus of unforgiveness.
Massage my aching feet with the sweet fragrant oil of the Holy Spirit. Stimulate them until they are soft and smooth. With a silky new layer of skin, alleviated of ailments, and improved circulation, my feet will be strong enough to safely and steadily climb to the pinnacle of Your presence.
From the Most High and Holy Mountain, I will shout the good news about how You found me and fixed me at the fountain of forgiveness. I will gleefully shout "My God reigns!" My glad greeting will lead others to You where they too will experience extravagant, exfoliating grace. With new heavenly souls, together, we will joyfully celebrate our healing.
Please dear Lord, bless my beautiful feet. Shape them for service and set them on a perfect path pleasing to You. Amen.
God gave me a power pedicure in the valley of death. My feet were sore and swollen. My heart ached like never before. It felt so good to let Him pamper me with His promises when I was weak. I came away strong enough to climb a mountain and shout, "My God is an awesome God! His love endures forever!"
If your feet are sore and swollen from sojourning through sickness, suffering and sin, make an appointment at God’s Beauty Bar for a power pedicure. Let the Prince of Peace pamper you with His promises and prepare you to climb into His presence. What will you tell the world about your experience?
Tuesday, March 21, 2006
Confess & Believe
Romans 10:9-13
9For if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by confessing with your mouth that you are saved. 11As the Scriptures tell us, "Anyone who believes in him will not be disappointed." 12Jew and Gentile are the same in this respect. They all have the same Lord, who generously gives his riches to all who ask for them. 13For "Anyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved." NLT
O My God~
You are beautiful beyond description! When I open my Bible, You open Your mouth telling me exactly what I need to preserve my life. Your Words are wonderful!
I want the world to know that You are King of my heart and Lord of my life. I love You with everything that’s in me. Risen from the dead, You reign!
You’re my all
You’re the best
You’re my joy and righteousness
And, I love You, Lord.
Supremely seated on the throne of my heart, I submit my whole life to Your costly commands. Seeking Your counsel minute by minute, I relish every fragment of your advice. Respecting Your wisdom and knowledge, I always try to obey You. In return, You promise to generously give me all the riches of heaven. Thank You, Jesus!
O Lord, I cherish Your costly commands and precious promises. They give me hope and comfort in all my trouble! Today, I’m claiming Your unfailing love and the salvation You promise. With all my life, I’ll guard the treasures You give me and tell the whole world, "My God reigns." From the throne of my heart, Lord, be glorified. Amen.
God commands:
Confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord. Who will you tell today, "Jesus is Lord of my life?" Don’t be afraid, open your mouth and speak!
Believe in your heart that He is risen from the dead and is present. If you are a believer He has made your heart His kingdom. If He’s not already seated on the throne in your heart, ruling over you, invite him to the supreme position of honor and respect worthy of a King. Obey Him, implicitly.
God Promises:
You will be made right with Him.
You will be saved.
9For if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by confessing with your mouth that you are saved. 11As the Scriptures tell us, "Anyone who believes in him will not be disappointed." 12Jew and Gentile are the same in this respect. They all have the same Lord, who generously gives his riches to all who ask for them. 13For "Anyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved." NLT
O My God~
You are beautiful beyond description! When I open my Bible, You open Your mouth telling me exactly what I need to preserve my life. Your Words are wonderful!
I want the world to know that You are King of my heart and Lord of my life. I love You with everything that’s in me. Risen from the dead, You reign!
You’re my all
You’re the best
You’re my joy and righteousness
And, I love You, Lord.
Supremely seated on the throne of my heart, I submit my whole life to Your costly commands. Seeking Your counsel minute by minute, I relish every fragment of your advice. Respecting Your wisdom and knowledge, I always try to obey You. In return, You promise to generously give me all the riches of heaven. Thank You, Jesus!
O Lord, I cherish Your costly commands and precious promises. They give me hope and comfort in all my trouble! Today, I’m claiming Your unfailing love and the salvation You promise. With all my life, I’ll guard the treasures You give me and tell the whole world, "My God reigns." From the throne of my heart, Lord, be glorified. Amen.
God commands:
Confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord. Who will you tell today, "Jesus is Lord of my life?" Don’t be afraid, open your mouth and speak!
Believe in your heart that He is risen from the dead and is present. If you are a believer He has made your heart His kingdom. If He’s not already seated on the throne in your heart, ruling over you, invite him to the supreme position of honor and respect worthy of a King. Obey Him, implicitly.
God Promises:
You will be made right with Him.
You will be saved.
Monday, March 20, 2006
Love Drives Out Fear
Romans 8:35-39
35Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? … 37No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
1 John 4: 16-18
16And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him. 17In this way, love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment, because in this world we are like him. 18There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.
Lord of Love,
I come to You seeking mercy and grace. Forgive me for fearing man. Please drive out my fears in the name of Jesus, Your Son. Every day I worry about what others will think of me, say about me, and do to me. I’m concerned that they will kill my ambitions, hopes, and dreams. Frightened of man’s condemnation, I live in constant apprehension. Paralyzed by fear, I’m tentative to open my mouth and speak for You. I’m sorry, Jesus.
Today, I’m claiming the truth! Your love drives out fear. You didn’t give me a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of love, power and sound mind. With Your Spirit living in me, I have no reason to worry. You and You alone are the Ultimate Judge. In Your Supreme Court, I’m already declared innocent and spared eternal punishment. Thank You, Jesus.
Nothing anyone thinks, says or does can separate me from You. From this day forward, I’m choosing to focus on Your perfect love living in me. Relying on it, I will conquer my fears. Please dear Lord, quiet my heart and give me confidence to trust in Your perfect love for the glory of Your name. Amen.
Do you worry about what others will think of you, say about you, or do to you? Do you live apprehensively as a people-pleaser? Resolve your fears by focusing on God’s endless love. Then, allow Him to love others through you.
35Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? … 37No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
1 John 4: 16-18
16And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him. 17In this way, love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment, because in this world we are like him. 18There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.
Lord of Love,
I come to You seeking mercy and grace. Forgive me for fearing man. Please drive out my fears in the name of Jesus, Your Son. Every day I worry about what others will think of me, say about me, and do to me. I’m concerned that they will kill my ambitions, hopes, and dreams. Frightened of man’s condemnation, I live in constant apprehension. Paralyzed by fear, I’m tentative to open my mouth and speak for You. I’m sorry, Jesus.
Today, I’m claiming the truth! Your love drives out fear. You didn’t give me a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of love, power and sound mind. With Your Spirit living in me, I have no reason to worry. You and You alone are the Ultimate Judge. In Your Supreme Court, I’m already declared innocent and spared eternal punishment. Thank You, Jesus.
Nothing anyone thinks, says or does can separate me from You. From this day forward, I’m choosing to focus on Your perfect love living in me. Relying on it, I will conquer my fears. Please dear Lord, quiet my heart and give me confidence to trust in Your perfect love for the glory of Your name. Amen.
Do you worry about what others will think of you, say about you, or do to you? Do you live apprehensively as a people-pleaser? Resolve your fears by focusing on God’s endless love. Then, allow Him to love others through you.
Friday, March 17, 2006
Come Clean
Reflections from Psalm 51
10Create in me a pure heart,
O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
11 Do not cast me from your presence
or take your Holy Spirit from me.
12 Restore to me the joy of your salvation
and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.
Have mercy on me O God, according to Your unfailing love and great compassion. Blot out my blemishes, wash away my wickedness, and cleanse me from corruption.
I know that I have broken Your sacred laws and blatantly disobeyed You. I admit I’ve done bad things. They haunt me relentlessly. I’ve hurt others causing You pain and grief. I haven’t acted like the child of a King. I’ve been rebellious since the day I was conceived.
Cleanse me in the refreshing fountain of forgiveness! Wash away the gunk and grime so that I’m whiter than the glistening snow. Hide Your face from the ugly stains marked by the consequences of my poor choices. The marks that won’t go away are embarrassing. Please don’t pay attention to them.
Create in me a pure heart, O God by cleansing me from the inside out. Renew a steadfast spirit within me. Fill me with wholesome thoughts and desires. Please don’t cast me from Your presence! Don’t take Your power from me. I need it to live above my foolish faults and failures.
Sparkling in the Son shine I can hear joy and gladness again. I can come close to You and experience the rich full life as a child of the majestic, Most High King. Gladly, I will bring my friends to the refreshing fountain of forgiveness, praising You for Your righteousness along the way. Lord, please put a merry melody in my mind. Remove my guilt and shame so that I can sing a sweet song for You.
Build me up from my brokenness and make me prosperous in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Do you feel that you can’t come close to God because of something terrible you’ve done? God can and will forgive any sin if you tell Him about it. He will always cleanse you, but not always remove the stain. Though clean, there is often a mark left behind from the sin.
David was truly sorry for his adultery with Bathseba, and for murdering her husband to cover it up. He knew his actions had hurt many people. He repented and God mercifully forgave him. No sin is too great to be forgiven - including adultery and murder.
Go to the refreshing fountain of forgiveness. Admit your sin, and it will be flushed away forever by the blood of Jesus. Praise Him for His precious promise!
10Create in me a pure heart,
O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
11 Do not cast me from your presence
or take your Holy Spirit from me.
12 Restore to me the joy of your salvation
and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.
Have mercy on me O God, according to Your unfailing love and great compassion. Blot out my blemishes, wash away my wickedness, and cleanse me from corruption.
I know that I have broken Your sacred laws and blatantly disobeyed You. I admit I’ve done bad things. They haunt me relentlessly. I’ve hurt others causing You pain and grief. I haven’t acted like the child of a King. I’ve been rebellious since the day I was conceived.
Cleanse me in the refreshing fountain of forgiveness! Wash away the gunk and grime so that I’m whiter than the glistening snow. Hide Your face from the ugly stains marked by the consequences of my poor choices. The marks that won’t go away are embarrassing. Please don’t pay attention to them.
Create in me a pure heart, O God by cleansing me from the inside out. Renew a steadfast spirit within me. Fill me with wholesome thoughts and desires. Please don’t cast me from Your presence! Don’t take Your power from me. I need it to live above my foolish faults and failures.
Sparkling in the Son shine I can hear joy and gladness again. I can come close to You and experience the rich full life as a child of the majestic, Most High King. Gladly, I will bring my friends to the refreshing fountain of forgiveness, praising You for Your righteousness along the way. Lord, please put a merry melody in my mind. Remove my guilt and shame so that I can sing a sweet song for You.
Build me up from my brokenness and make me prosperous in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Do you feel that you can’t come close to God because of something terrible you’ve done? God can and will forgive any sin if you tell Him about it. He will always cleanse you, but not always remove the stain. Though clean, there is often a mark left behind from the sin.
David was truly sorry for his adultery with Bathseba, and for murdering her husband to cover it up. He knew his actions had hurt many people. He repented and God mercifully forgave him. No sin is too great to be forgiven - including adultery and murder.
Go to the refreshing fountain of forgiveness. Admit your sin, and it will be flushed away forever by the blood of Jesus. Praise Him for His precious promise!
Thursday, March 16, 2006
My Favorite Things
Sitting by a campfire, on a warm spring night, singing "Favorite Things," my heart fluttered with these thoughts… When the dog bites, when the bee stings, when I'm feeling sad, I simply remember my favorite things and then I don't feel so bad.
When distress bites,
When sin stings,
When I’m feeling sad,
I simply remember my favorite things,
And then I don’t feel so bad.
Lord Jesus,
You are the Designer of my favorite things! Thank You for writing Your Word on my heart. Bitten by disaster, discouragement and disappointment; stung by sin, suffering and sickness, I simply remember my favorite things and then I don’t feel so bad.
When you’re bitten, stung, and sad what are a few of your favorite Bible verses? Claim them. Memorize them. Then, when you’re feeling sad, remember them and you won’t feel so bad.
I encourage you to write them on a note card, carry them with you wherever you go, post them on the bathroom mirror and throughout your home and office. Remember them!
When distress bites,
When sin stings,
When I’m feeling sad,
I simply remember my favorite things,
And then I don’t feel so bad.
Lord Jesus,
You are the Designer of my favorite things! Thank You for writing Your Word on my heart. Bitten by disaster, discouragement and disappointment; stung by sin, suffering and sickness, I simply remember my favorite things and then I don’t feel so bad.
- How great is the love the Father has lavished on me, that I should be called a child of God! And that is what I am! He is my Father! I am His beloved child. (1 John 3:1)
- In love, I am blessed, chosen, adopted, accepted, redeemed and forgiven. (Ephesians 1:3-8)
- I am an heir of His most treasured possession, Jesus. (Romans 8: 17)
- I am forgiven of ALL my sins; healed of ALL my diseases, redeemed from the pit, crowned with love and compassion, and satisfied with good things. (Psalm 103: 1-5)
- My name is written in heaven; a room is reserved for me, in His name! (Luke 10:20)
- He did not give me a spirit of timidity, but rather a spirit of love, power and sound thinking. (2 Timothy 1:7)
When you’re bitten, stung, and sad what are a few of your favorite Bible verses? Claim them. Memorize them. Then, when you’re feeling sad, remember them and you won’t feel so bad.
I encourage you to write them on a note card, carry them with you wherever you go, post them on the bathroom mirror and throughout your home and office. Remember them!
Wednesday, March 15, 2006
The Mysteries of God
Romans 8: 29-30
29For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. 30And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.
Almighty God,
I stand in awe of You! I can’t begin to understand Your wisdom or Your ways! You …
From the beginning God knew you, shaped you, called you, justified you, and glorified you! How can you claim the treasure? What will you do with it? Perhaps, thank the King!
29For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. 30And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.
Almighty God,
I stand in awe of You! I can’t begin to understand Your wisdom or Your ways! You …
- Foreknew me, choosing me from the very beginning to be your beloved child
- Predestined me, molding me to look like Your firstborn Son
- Called me by name, inviting me to come to You
- Justified me, declaring me "not guilty" and in right standing with You
- Glorified me, polishing and perfecting me to shine like Jesus
From the beginning God knew you, shaped you, called you, justified you, and glorified you! How can you claim the treasure? What will you do with it? Perhaps, thank the King!
Tuesday, March 14, 2006
God is For Me
Romans 8: 31-34
If God is for us, who can be against us? 32He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? 33Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. 34Who is he that condemns? Christ Jesus, who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us.
Revelation 1: 13-16
13Among the lampstands was someone "like a son of man,"dressed in a robe reaching down to his feet and with a golden sash around his chest. 14His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow, and his eyes were like blazing fire. 15His feet were like bronze glowing in a furnace, and his voice was like the sound of rushing waters. 16In his right hand he held seven stars, and out of his mouth came a sharp double-edged sword. His face was like the sun shining in all its brilliance."
Holy, Holy, Holy Lord God Almighty!
You are so good to me! You graciously give me all things! Your promises are precious! They sustain me through severe suffering and seclusion.
Gazing on Your majesty, I see Jesus, the Son of Man who experienced suffering, seclusion, and shame. He is beside You, dressed like a High Priest in a robe reaching down to His feet. He understands my pain and problems, and is pleading to You on my behalf.
The golden sash around His chest tells me He is a King who has full authority over everything that takes place in my life. His soft white hair reveals His wisdom and purity. He knows exactly what to allow into my life to make me holy, pure and blameless. Through my troubles He is transforming me into the likeness of His Son.
With angry eyes blazing like fire, He is serious and will avenge anyone who tries to hurt me. His feet are like bronze glowing in a furnace, ready to trample in judgment anyone who condemns me. Justification and condemnation belong to Him and Him alone! He will not tolerate anyone else doing His job.
When He speaks, His thunderous voice roars like the sound of water rushing over Niagara Falls. It drowns out all other sounds. With my attention focused on the Living Word of God, I can’t hear those who criticize and convict me. I only hear His piercing voice pardoning me.
He holds me in His strong right hand like the seven stars. Nothing can snatch me from His mighty grip of grace. He holds on to me tightly even when I let go of Him.
The Commander-in-Chief of the Lords Army is in charge of me. He gives me the weapon I need to combat the enemy, the Sword of His Word. Swiftly taking it, I confidently march forward inflicting anyone who insults me.
Gazing on the radiant face of the Son of Man, I know that in my desolation and isolation He is overruling me. No one else can accuse or defend me. He alone is the Holy, Almighty Judge and NOTHING can separate me from His love.
Thank You Lord for Your priceless promise in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Who is accusing you, God or man? Whose authority are you under, God or man? Who is pleading your case, God or man? In whom will you place your trust, God or man?
Choose to believe God and you will be blessed!
If God is for us, who can be against us? 32He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? 33Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. 34Who is he that condemns? Christ Jesus, who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us.
Revelation 1: 13-16
13Among the lampstands was someone "like a son of man,"dressed in a robe reaching down to his feet and with a golden sash around his chest. 14His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow, and his eyes were like blazing fire. 15His feet were like bronze glowing in a furnace, and his voice was like the sound of rushing waters. 16In his right hand he held seven stars, and out of his mouth came a sharp double-edged sword. His face was like the sun shining in all its brilliance."
Holy, Holy, Holy Lord God Almighty!
You are so good to me! You graciously give me all things! Your promises are precious! They sustain me through severe suffering and seclusion.
Gazing on Your majesty, I see Jesus, the Son of Man who experienced suffering, seclusion, and shame. He is beside You, dressed like a High Priest in a robe reaching down to His feet. He understands my pain and problems, and is pleading to You on my behalf.
The golden sash around His chest tells me He is a King who has full authority over everything that takes place in my life. His soft white hair reveals His wisdom and purity. He knows exactly what to allow into my life to make me holy, pure and blameless. Through my troubles He is transforming me into the likeness of His Son.
With angry eyes blazing like fire, He is serious and will avenge anyone who tries to hurt me. His feet are like bronze glowing in a furnace, ready to trample in judgment anyone who condemns me. Justification and condemnation belong to Him and Him alone! He will not tolerate anyone else doing His job.
When He speaks, His thunderous voice roars like the sound of water rushing over Niagara Falls. It drowns out all other sounds. With my attention focused on the Living Word of God, I can’t hear those who criticize and convict me. I only hear His piercing voice pardoning me.
He holds me in His strong right hand like the seven stars. Nothing can snatch me from His mighty grip of grace. He holds on to me tightly even when I let go of Him.
The Commander-in-Chief of the Lords Army is in charge of me. He gives me the weapon I need to combat the enemy, the Sword of His Word. Swiftly taking it, I confidently march forward inflicting anyone who insults me.
Gazing on the radiant face of the Son of Man, I know that in my desolation and isolation He is overruling me. No one else can accuse or defend me. He alone is the Holy, Almighty Judge and NOTHING can separate me from His love.
Thank You Lord for Your priceless promise in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Who is accusing you, God or man? Whose authority are you under, God or man? Who is pleading your case, God or man? In whom will you place your trust, God or man?
Choose to believe God and you will be blessed!
Monday, March 13, 2006
Preoccupied by God
Revelation 1: 9-13
9I, John, your brother and companion in the suffering and kingdom and patient endurance that are ours in Jesus, was on the island of Patmos because of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus. 10On the Lord's Day I was in the Spirit, and I heard behind me a loud voice like a trumpet, 11which said: "Write on a scroll what you see and send it to the seven churches: to Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea."
12I turned around to see the voice that was speaking to me. And when I turned I saw seven golden lampstands, 13and among the lampstands was someone "like a son of man,"
Most Holy, Majestic King,
Thank You for a fresh vision of Your glory! Like John, I too suffer in solitude. Reading about his sweet, submissive spirit in seclusion strengthens my faith.
Cut off from his hopes, dreams, and plans for the future, he surrendered himself to You in worship. Then, You spoke to him in a loud voice. Not only did he hear Your voice, but He turned around and saw you too. You will do the same to me. When I open my Bible and read with the expectation, You’ll speak. If I’m willing to stop what I’m doing and turn around, I’ll see and know the person behind the Words.
Focusing on Your wonderful face, I’ll have a fresh vision of who You are. Looking beyond myself, gazing on your beauty, I’ll see a holy, majestic, and wise King. My problems will grow strangely dim in the light of Your glory and grace.
Please dear Lord, let me be so preoccupied with your voice and your splendor that I won’t have time to think about my suffering and solitude. Give me patient endurance to take my eyes off myself and my difficult circumstances so that I can grow in my knowledge and personal relationship with You. I want to know You more, in my suffering, Jesus! Amen.
I was so preoccupied looking at Jesus during my dad’s sickness and suffering, that like John, I was able to write beautiful Prayer Pals proclaiming God’s glorious grace. I saw the Lord!
What are you doing in the midst of your suffering and solitude? When you open your Bible God opens His mouth. If you turn around, change directions, and look up, you’ll see the voice behind the Words. How is He asking you to respond to your circumstances? A response can be a story, a painting, a song, or whatever He puts in your heart! Just focus on him and express yourself. Then, your troubles will grow strangely dim in the light of his glorious grace.
9I, John, your brother and companion in the suffering and kingdom and patient endurance that are ours in Jesus, was on the island of Patmos because of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus. 10On the Lord's Day I was in the Spirit, and I heard behind me a loud voice like a trumpet, 11which said: "Write on a scroll what you see and send it to the seven churches: to Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea."
12I turned around to see the voice that was speaking to me. And when I turned I saw seven golden lampstands, 13and among the lampstands was someone "like a son of man,"
Most Holy, Majestic King,
Thank You for a fresh vision of Your glory! Like John, I too suffer in solitude. Reading about his sweet, submissive spirit in seclusion strengthens my faith.
Cut off from his hopes, dreams, and plans for the future, he surrendered himself to You in worship. Then, You spoke to him in a loud voice. Not only did he hear Your voice, but He turned around and saw you too. You will do the same to me. When I open my Bible and read with the expectation, You’ll speak. If I’m willing to stop what I’m doing and turn around, I’ll see and know the person behind the Words.
Focusing on Your wonderful face, I’ll have a fresh vision of who You are. Looking beyond myself, gazing on your beauty, I’ll see a holy, majestic, and wise King. My problems will grow strangely dim in the light of Your glory and grace.
Please dear Lord, let me be so preoccupied with your voice and your splendor that I won’t have time to think about my suffering and solitude. Give me patient endurance to take my eyes off myself and my difficult circumstances so that I can grow in my knowledge and personal relationship with You. I want to know You more, in my suffering, Jesus! Amen.
I was so preoccupied looking at Jesus during my dad’s sickness and suffering, that like John, I was able to write beautiful Prayer Pals proclaiming God’s glorious grace. I saw the Lord!
What are you doing in the midst of your suffering and solitude? When you open your Bible God opens His mouth. If you turn around, change directions, and look up, you’ll see the voice behind the Words. How is He asking you to respond to your circumstances? A response can be a story, a painting, a song, or whatever He puts in your heart! Just focus on him and express yourself. Then, your troubles will grow strangely dim in the light of his glorious grace.
Friday, March 10, 2006
Knowing Jesus
Philippians 3: 7-11
7But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. 8What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ 9and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God and is by faith. 10I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, 11and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection from the dead.
My Jesus, My Savior, My great and Glorious King,
You are the desire of my heart. All the power and possessions I once pursued are worthless. All the accolades and accomplishments I accumulated are insignificant. The pleasures and treasures of the world can’t compare to knowing You, Jesus. Please show me all the clutter in my life that needs discarded to make room for more of You.
I want to know You more and more each day. My deepest aspiration is to be more like You in every way. I’m inferior and inadequate. My trinkets and trophies can’t save me. They’re meaningless to You. All You want is all of me. Knowing You personally and intimately is the only thing that matters. By faith, I believe that You are my only saving grace. My relationship with You is the most important thing in all of my life.
After the home of my heart is cleared of the clutter, there will be plenty of room for Your all-consuming power. Using the mighty power that raised Jesus from the dead, I can overcome evil and temptation. In Your strength, I will die to my past addictions and attractions. Sharing in Your suffering, I will lay down my sinful life to follow You, Jesus.
Thank You for preserving History so that I can have heavenly hope. After the excruciating pain of death, joy comes in the mourning … beautiful life that never ends.
There is no greater thing than knowing You, Jesus. You mean the world to me. The most valuable treasure of all time is found in You – sweet salvation. With a song in my heart and a smile on my face I will praise You for Your greatness. You are my righteousness and I love You, Lord. Amen.
If you were standing before the throne of God and He asked you, "Do you love me with all your heart, mind, soul and strength?" could you honestly answer, "Yes, Lord, You are my most important relationship." What if He said, "Prove it"? If you couldn't answer Him with a "Yes, Lord", then you may want to print this Prayer Pal and pray it repeatedly until He consumes your whole heart.
What are you willing to give up to know Christ better? Time each day for Bible study and prayer? Approval from friends and family? Your personal plans, ambitions, and dreams? Knowing Christ is worth the sacrifice.
Today I will give up _______________________________________ in order to know you more, Jesus.
Go and obey. Jesus said, "If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching." John 14: 23
7But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. 8What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ 9and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God and is by faith. 10I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, 11and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection from the dead.
My Jesus, My Savior, My great and Glorious King,
You are the desire of my heart. All the power and possessions I once pursued are worthless. All the accolades and accomplishments I accumulated are insignificant. The pleasures and treasures of the world can’t compare to knowing You, Jesus. Please show me all the clutter in my life that needs discarded to make room for more of You.
I want to know You more and more each day. My deepest aspiration is to be more like You in every way. I’m inferior and inadequate. My trinkets and trophies can’t save me. They’re meaningless to You. All You want is all of me. Knowing You personally and intimately is the only thing that matters. By faith, I believe that You are my only saving grace. My relationship with You is the most important thing in all of my life.
After the home of my heart is cleared of the clutter, there will be plenty of room for Your all-consuming power. Using the mighty power that raised Jesus from the dead, I can overcome evil and temptation. In Your strength, I will die to my past addictions and attractions. Sharing in Your suffering, I will lay down my sinful life to follow You, Jesus.
Thank You for preserving History so that I can have heavenly hope. After the excruciating pain of death, joy comes in the mourning … beautiful life that never ends.
There is no greater thing than knowing You, Jesus. You mean the world to me. The most valuable treasure of all time is found in You – sweet salvation. With a song in my heart and a smile on my face I will praise You for Your greatness. You are my righteousness and I love You, Lord. Amen.
If you were standing before the throne of God and He asked you, "Do you love me with all your heart, mind, soul and strength?" could you honestly answer, "Yes, Lord, You are my most important relationship." What if He said, "Prove it"? If you couldn't answer Him with a "Yes, Lord", then you may want to print this Prayer Pal and pray it repeatedly until He consumes your whole heart.
What are you willing to give up to know Christ better? Time each day for Bible study and prayer? Approval from friends and family? Your personal plans, ambitions, and dreams? Knowing Christ is worth the sacrifice.
Today I will give up _______________________________________ in order to know you more, Jesus.
Go and obey. Jesus said, "If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching." John 14: 23
Thursday, March 09, 2006
God is Good
Romans 8:28
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.
O God, My Loving Father,
I love you with all my heart. You are so good to me, always. Life isn’t always fair, but You are always good. I know that in all things You’re working out your perfect plan and polishing me to be more like Jesus. I believe with all my heart, mind and strength that You’ll turn my tragedy into victory!
I trust You, God to make a miracle from my misery! Looking forward to my hope in heaven, I’ll willingly accept painful situations that polish and perfect me like a precious pearl. In my life Lord, be glorified today through Jesus I pray. Amen.
God has used my dad’s cancer and long journey through the valley of death to polish and perfect my pearl of compassion. Because I’ve experienced the excruciating pain of loss, I’m able to weep with those who weep and comfort those who mourn. He has used my father-in-law’s sudden death to polish and perfect my pearl of love. Because something valuable has been suddenly been taken away, we’ve learned to love God and others more today because there may not be a tomorrow. God has made miracles from my miseries. He promises to do the same for you too.
In __________________________ (your tragedy) God is working to perfect my _____________________________ (a Christ-like characteristic). Fill in the blanks.
Believe God and you will be blessed!
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.
O God, My Loving Father,
I love you with all my heart. You are so good to me, always. Life isn’t always fair, but You are always good. I know that in all things You’re working out your perfect plan and polishing me to be more like Jesus. I believe with all my heart, mind and strength that You’ll turn my tragedy into victory!
- In sudden death and despair You work for the good of those who love You.
- In cancer and catastrophes You work for the good of those who love You.
- In flops and failures You work for the good of those who love You.
- In accidents and hospital stays You work for the good of those who love You.
- In unemployment and financial disaster You work for the good of those who love You.
- In felonies and prison terms You work for the good of those who love You.
- In trials and temptations You work for the good of those who love You.
- In divorce papers and broken families You work for the good of those who love You.
- In addictions and abortions You work for the good of those who love You.
- In infertility and injury You work for the good of those who love You.
I trust You, God to make a miracle from my misery! Looking forward to my hope in heaven, I’ll willingly accept painful situations that polish and perfect me like a precious pearl. In my life Lord, be glorified today through Jesus I pray. Amen.
God has used my dad’s cancer and long journey through the valley of death to polish and perfect my pearl of compassion. Because I’ve experienced the excruciating pain of loss, I’m able to weep with those who weep and comfort those who mourn. He has used my father-in-law’s sudden death to polish and perfect my pearl of love. Because something valuable has been suddenly been taken away, we’ve learned to love God and others more today because there may not be a tomorrow. God has made miracles from my miseries. He promises to do the same for you too.
In __________________________ (your tragedy) God is working to perfect my _____________________________ (a Christ-like characteristic). Fill in the blanks.
Believe God and you will be blessed!
Wednesday, March 08, 2006
An Inarticulate Sigh
Romans 8:26-27
26In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. 27And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will.
Most High Priest,
I come to You with an inarticulate sigh which only You can translate. You feel the pressure that’s pounding me and know the greatness of my problems. I’m too wretched, weak and weary to even know what to pray, but You know my heart and mind. Seated at the right hand of God, my Father, You're constantly offering prayers on my behalf. Blessed assurance!
I don’t know the future, but You do. I may ask to be saved from situations that are intended for my good. I may ask for things that look good but would ultimately harm me. My feeble, finite mind can’t grasp Your plan!
I’m merely a child. I think I know what’s best, but really I’m quite naïve. You are my Abba, Daddy, and sometimes have to refuse my requests or require me to do something I don’t want to do. I admit that You are all-wise and know what is best for me.
All I can do is confidently come, just as I am, wretched, weak and weary. All I can say is, "Father, into Your hands I commit my Spirit. Not my will but Yours be done, for the glory of Your Son." Amen.
You don’t have to say a word. God knows your heart and mind. Just come as you are, and allow Him to offer prayers on your behalf.
Last night as I was driving down the road, praying in the sanctuary of my car, I ended with "not my will but yours be done." It dawned on me that I should probably always make my requests to God, then finish with "not my will but yours be done. Amen." We can ask God for anything, but ultimately His plan will be done because He's in control of all things.
26In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. 27And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will.
Most High Priest,
I come to You with an inarticulate sigh which only You can translate. You feel the pressure that’s pounding me and know the greatness of my problems. I’m too wretched, weak and weary to even know what to pray, but You know my heart and mind. Seated at the right hand of God, my Father, You're constantly offering prayers on my behalf. Blessed assurance!
I don’t know the future, but You do. I may ask to be saved from situations that are intended for my good. I may ask for things that look good but would ultimately harm me. My feeble, finite mind can’t grasp Your plan!
I’m merely a child. I think I know what’s best, but really I’m quite naïve. You are my Abba, Daddy, and sometimes have to refuse my requests or require me to do something I don’t want to do. I admit that You are all-wise and know what is best for me.
All I can do is confidently come, just as I am, wretched, weak and weary. All I can say is, "Father, into Your hands I commit my Spirit. Not my will but Yours be done, for the glory of Your Son." Amen.
You don’t have to say a word. God knows your heart and mind. Just come as you are, and allow Him to offer prayers on your behalf.
Last night as I was driving down the road, praying in the sanctuary of my car, I ended with "not my will but yours be done." It dawned on me that I should probably always make my requests to God, then finish with "not my will but yours be done. Amen." We can ask God for anything, but ultimately His plan will be done because He's in control of all things.
Not my will but Yours be done.
Tuesday, March 07, 2006
Hope for Tomorrow
Romans 8: 18, 23-25
18I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. 23Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. 24For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what he already has? 25But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.
Lord of Life,
Thank you for this time of year when daylight exceeds darkness. I’ve been eagerly waiting for this season to spring forward. Spring gives me hope during the winter when it’s cold, dark and dead outside. Feeling depressed, troubled and weary, I anticipate glorious new life!
As I looked out my window today I noticed the bulbs that were dead all winter springing to life again through the soft, saturated soil. My heart fluttered with joy to think that in just a short time a pretty pallet of posies will peek in at me. Thank You for giving me a fresh vision of Your glory and new hope for tomorrow.
Like the flamboyant, fragrant flowers, I too must die and decompose as I suffer through sin, sickness, and sorrow. I groan inwardly as I waste away. Eagerly, I wait through the frigid season of darkness. Still, silent and stiff, I endure with expectation for the day when I will spring to life through the soft soil saturated with tears of sadness. Like the posies peeking in at me, my body will spring to life as a brand new vibrant bouquet that will never wilt or wither. I will live eternally in Your glorious garden where there will be no weeds to choke me, no thorns to prick me and no insects to devour me.
As it is written, no eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what You have prepared for those who love You.[a] Anticipating longer days full of warm, radiant sunshine, surrounded by mysterious new life, I can only imagine what You have in store for me! Life with You is my bright hope for tomorrow that sustains me through today’s trouble.
Thank You Lord, for a fresh vision of Your glory! I praise and worship You with love and adoration because of the new life that awaits me in Christ Jesus. Amen.
What are you hoping for?
[a] 1 Corinthians 2:9
18I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. 23Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. 24For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what he already has? 25But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.
Lord of Life,
Thank you for this time of year when daylight exceeds darkness. I’ve been eagerly waiting for this season to spring forward. Spring gives me hope during the winter when it’s cold, dark and dead outside. Feeling depressed, troubled and weary, I anticipate glorious new life!
As I looked out my window today I noticed the bulbs that were dead all winter springing to life again through the soft, saturated soil. My heart fluttered with joy to think that in just a short time a pretty pallet of posies will peek in at me. Thank You for giving me a fresh vision of Your glory and new hope for tomorrow.
Like the flamboyant, fragrant flowers, I too must die and decompose as I suffer through sin, sickness, and sorrow. I groan inwardly as I waste away. Eagerly, I wait through the frigid season of darkness. Still, silent and stiff, I endure with expectation for the day when I will spring to life through the soft soil saturated with tears of sadness. Like the posies peeking in at me, my body will spring to life as a brand new vibrant bouquet that will never wilt or wither. I will live eternally in Your glorious garden where there will be no weeds to choke me, no thorns to prick me and no insects to devour me.
As it is written, no eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what You have prepared for those who love You.[a] Anticipating longer days full of warm, radiant sunshine, surrounded by mysterious new life, I can only imagine what You have in store for me! Life with You is my bright hope for tomorrow that sustains me through today’s trouble.
Thank You Lord, for a fresh vision of Your glory! I praise and worship You with love and adoration because of the new life that awaits me in Christ Jesus. Amen.
What are you hoping for?
[a] 1 Corinthians 2:9
Monday, March 06, 2006
Adopted by God
Romans 8:14-17
14Those who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. 15For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, "Abba, Father." 16The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children. 17Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.
Abba, Father,
I’m thankful and joyful that you chose and adopted me into your royal family, reserving a room for me in Your heavenly mansion. You will be my Father and I will be Your dearly loved child forever. You’ve lavished me with knowledge and understanding, illuminating the highway to heaven where I will find joy in your presence and eternal pleasures.
Upon arriving in the hallowed halls of heaven, You will wipe every tear from my eye. You will crown me with forgiveness, clothe me with a robe of righteousness, and cover me with the priceless jewels of Jesus, purchased with His blood. I will be made new. My heart leaps for joy at the very thought of my rich rewards.
Until I get there, I will be seized by sin, suffering and sorrow. I will be attacked by anger, anxiety, and anguish. I will be stripped by shame, stress and stupidity. I will be flogged by fear, and beaten by bitterness and boasting. I may even be shackled and sent to prison for my passionate pursuit of righteousness. In the midst of my misery, I will rejoice and give thanks to You for accomplishing Your will in my life. Singing sweet songs of salvation in my sadness, and powerfully pleading for patience during pain, I will smile when I feel like crying. When others held hostage around me hear my heavenly hope, their chains will come loose, and they will be saved and set free if they choose to believe.
Lord, You and You alone are my joy and delight. Your joy is my strength. No one can ever take this treasured possession from me. Please put a smile on my face that reflects the joy in my heart because of who I am in Jesus! Amen.
Knowing that you are God’s chosen child, what should your response be in the midst of suffering? How will you change your attitude in order to share in Christ’s glory?
14Those who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. 15For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, "Abba, Father." 16The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children. 17Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.
Abba, Father,
I’m thankful and joyful that you chose and adopted me into your royal family, reserving a room for me in Your heavenly mansion. You will be my Father and I will be Your dearly loved child forever. You’ve lavished me with knowledge and understanding, illuminating the highway to heaven where I will find joy in your presence and eternal pleasures.
Upon arriving in the hallowed halls of heaven, You will wipe every tear from my eye. You will crown me with forgiveness, clothe me with a robe of righteousness, and cover me with the priceless jewels of Jesus, purchased with His blood. I will be made new. My heart leaps for joy at the very thought of my rich rewards.
Until I get there, I will be seized by sin, suffering and sorrow. I will be attacked by anger, anxiety, and anguish. I will be stripped by shame, stress and stupidity. I will be flogged by fear, and beaten by bitterness and boasting. I may even be shackled and sent to prison for my passionate pursuit of righteousness. In the midst of my misery, I will rejoice and give thanks to You for accomplishing Your will in my life. Singing sweet songs of salvation in my sadness, and powerfully pleading for patience during pain, I will smile when I feel like crying. When others held hostage around me hear my heavenly hope, their chains will come loose, and they will be saved and set free if they choose to believe.
Lord, You and You alone are my joy and delight. Your joy is my strength. No one can ever take this treasured possession from me. Please put a smile on my face that reflects the joy in my heart because of who I am in Jesus! Amen.
Knowing that you are God’s chosen child, what should your response be in the midst of suffering? How will you change your attitude in order to share in Christ’s glory?
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