- Don't Throw it Away July 5, 2010
- Don't Worry, Pray July 6, 2010
- Thoughts July 7, 2010
- Offer Your Life July 8, 2010
- Desire God July 9, 2010
- Satisfaction July 10, 2010
- Cheers July 12, 2010
- Change July 13, 2010
- Time Out July 14, 2010
- Healing Love July 15, 2010
- Live for Him July 16, 2010
- I Want July 17, 2010
- Perception July 19, 2010
- Who? July 20, 2010
- Rejoice July 21, 2010
- Small is Big July 22, 2010
- Spiritual House July 23, 2010
- Dive in July 24, 2010
- Real life July 26, 2010
- Use Your Gift July 27, 2010
- Serve July 28, 2010
- Trust and Control July 29, 2010
- Servant July 30, 2010
- Where is God? July 31, 2010
July 5, 2010
“For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God.” 1 Peter 3:18
What is Jesus whispering to you?
I'm going to do something different by giving you another version of this verse: "An innocent person died for those who are guilty. Christ did this to bring you to God." CEV
A close relationship with God isn't free, it cost Jesus his life. Because we could not pay the price, Jesus did. Jesus did this out of love for us. He paid the price once and for all. It's now free to us, a gift, not because we did anything for it, but because he loves us that much. Why would we throw such a gift away by not accepting it?
Oh, we may have been baptized and say we believe but how much time do we spend focused on God?
Not only did Christ die to save us from our sin giving us eternal life for all who believe, but He died to bring us to God. He died so that we may have that close relationship with Him for eternity. Why would we throw that away because we are too busy?
This one hit me hard last night and this morning. The Spirit has convicted me. I like to think that I spend a lot of time with God but after further examination not really. How easy it has been for me to get lost in my selfish life. I pray things like: "Thank you God for..." followed by "Give me..." I'm always making excuses as to why I don't have time right now to read the Bible or spend quiet time with God.
Forgive us Lord for taking your gift of grace for granted.
I'm going to do something different by giving you another version of this verse: "An innocent person died for those who are guilty. Christ did this to bring you to God." CEV
A close relationship with God isn't free, it cost Jesus his life. Because we could not pay the price, Jesus did. Jesus did this out of love for us. He paid the price once and for all. It's now free to us, a gift, not because we did anything for it, but because he loves us that much. Why would we throw such a gift away by not accepting it?
Oh, we may have been baptized and say we believe but how much time do we spend focused on God?
Not only did Christ die to save us from our sin giving us eternal life for all who believe, but He died to bring us to God. He died so that we may have that close relationship with Him for eternity. Why would we throw that away because we are too busy?
This one hit me hard last night and this morning. The Spirit has convicted me. I like to think that I spend a lot of time with God but after further examination not really. How easy it has been for me to get lost in my selfish life. I pray things like: "Thank you God for..." followed by "Give me..." I'm always making excuses as to why I don't have time right now to read the Bible or spend quiet time with God.
Forgive us Lord for taking your gift of grace for granted.
July 6, 2010
"Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done." Philippians 4:6 NLT
Listen as you reread this verse, what is the Spirit whispering to you?
Worry is a term we are all familiar with. If you have ever lost sleep over something, you know worry. Here we are told not to worry but instead pray, why?
When we worry we are trying to take care of things on our own. We are trying to exist without God. When we pray we put our trust in God. So instead of worrying about things we should pray about them. Have you ever noticed that after you talk to someone about your worries that often those worries are lifted and you feel better?
It is no different with God. Talk to Him, He is always there ready to listen. Tell Him everything; the good, bad, and ugly. Tell Him about your triumphs and your failures. Tell God what you need and want. Thank Him for everything. Try also to praise God. Praise is different than giving thanks. Praise is telling God who He is; He is great, wonderful, all knowing, powerful, full of love, worthy of praise, etc. When we give praise we are not only honoring God but we are reinforcing what we know about God. Praising God will lift you up and help you trust Him more.
Worry is a term we are all familiar with. If you have ever lost sleep over something, you know worry. Here we are told not to worry but instead pray, why?
When we worry we are trying to take care of things on our own. We are trying to exist without God. When we pray we put our trust in God. So instead of worrying about things we should pray about them. Have you ever noticed that after you talk to someone about your worries that often those worries are lifted and you feel better?
It is no different with God. Talk to Him, He is always there ready to listen. Tell Him everything; the good, bad, and ugly. Tell Him about your triumphs and your failures. Tell God what you need and want. Thank Him for everything. Try also to praise God. Praise is different than giving thanks. Praise is telling God who He is; He is great, wonderful, all knowing, powerful, full of love, worthy of praise, etc. When we give praise we are not only honoring God but we are reinforcing what we know about God. Praising God will lift you up and help you trust Him more.
July 7, 2010
“Fix your thoughts on what is true and honorable and right. Think about things that are pure and lovely and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.” Philippians 4:8 NLT
What is Jesus whispering to you as you reread this verse?
Positive thinking makes a difference. When we think positively we will act positively, but when we focus on the negative it affects the way we act. What are the things that influence our thoughts?
There are several things that affect our thoughts; other people, the way our day is going, our job, TV, radio, books, and the list goes on. While these things affect our thoughts we can still focus on the positive. When someone does something or says something that makes us mad we need to let it go. Don't allow people to push our buttons. Don't take it personally; give up your control for God's control.
When you are having a bad day, praise God. Singing and saying praise to God not only honors Him, it also lifts your spirits. If you are in a job that you don't like do the same. No matter what you do you are serving God. Pray about your job and if it is God's will for you He will give you opportunity to get another job that fits you better, or you will discover the joy of serving God where ever you are.
This next one is a tough one. I don't want to add it because it really convicts me. The TV shows, movies, radio, and books that we see, listen to, and read affect our thoughts. The Skit Guys put it well in a skit that they do: "Dad can I go and see a movie it only has a little bad language and a little violence and a little nudity but it's not much and it doesn't fill the movie, you hardly even know it's there." The dad answers that he can after he tries some brownies he just made. The son eats and then the dad asks if there is anything different about them. The son says there is an after taste that is different. "Well" says the dad " there is a new ingredient, dog poop, but it's just a little it doesn't affect the whole batch and you hardly know it's there."
When we fill our thoughts with poop, then poop comes out of our thoughts. Instead we should fill our thoughts with "what is true and honorable and right."
Positive thinking makes a difference. When we think positively we will act positively, but when we focus on the negative it affects the way we act. What are the things that influence our thoughts?
There are several things that affect our thoughts; other people, the way our day is going, our job, TV, radio, books, and the list goes on. While these things affect our thoughts we can still focus on the positive. When someone does something or says something that makes us mad we need to let it go. Don't allow people to push our buttons. Don't take it personally; give up your control for God's control.
When you are having a bad day, praise God. Singing and saying praise to God not only honors Him, it also lifts your spirits. If you are in a job that you don't like do the same. No matter what you do you are serving God. Pray about your job and if it is God's will for you He will give you opportunity to get another job that fits you better, or you will discover the joy of serving God where ever you are.
This next one is a tough one. I don't want to add it because it really convicts me. The TV shows, movies, radio, and books that we see, listen to, and read affect our thoughts. The Skit Guys put it well in a skit that they do: "Dad can I go and see a movie it only has a little bad language and a little violence and a little nudity but it's not much and it doesn't fill the movie, you hardly even know it's there." The dad answers that he can after he tries some brownies he just made. The son eats and then the dad asks if there is anything different about them. The son says there is an after taste that is different. "Well" says the dad " there is a new ingredient, dog poop, but it's just a little it doesn't affect the whole batch and you hardly know it's there."
When we fill our thoughts with poop, then poop comes out of our thoughts. Instead we should fill our thoughts with "what is true and honorable and right."
July 8, 2010
“So here's what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him.” Romans 12:1 MSG
What is the Spirit whispering to you as you meditate on this verse?
Take your life and give it to God as an offering. What does that mean? What does that look like?
Live your life for God as His instrument. Let Him guide and direct you in all you do. That means in all you do think about God, listen to the Spirit's guidance. Use some of your free time studying His word and reading Christian books, go to church not for you but for Him. You should go to church to feed the Spirit inside of you. Serve people in all you do rather it is in work or play. When you sleep, go to sleep in prayer trusting God and not worrying about the day ahead. Live your life in constant prayer thanking God for all He has given you and asking for help in all you do. Give God the glory for all of your life accomplishments. When you sin, own up to it and repent. Learn from your mistakes. If your life is contrary to God's word then you haven't given your life as an offering. How do you know if you have given your life as an offering?
If people don't know you're a Christian, then they will ask who you are because you will be different. You will be full of life. Light will radiate from you. People will want what you have. You won't live a perfect life but Christ will reveal His perfection through you.
Take your life and give it to God as an offering. What does that mean? What does that look like?
Live your life for God as His instrument. Let Him guide and direct you in all you do. That means in all you do think about God, listen to the Spirit's guidance. Use some of your free time studying His word and reading Christian books, go to church not for you but for Him. You should go to church to feed the Spirit inside of you. Serve people in all you do rather it is in work or play. When you sleep, go to sleep in prayer trusting God and not worrying about the day ahead. Live your life in constant prayer thanking God for all He has given you and asking for help in all you do. Give God the glory for all of your life accomplishments. When you sin, own up to it and repent. Learn from your mistakes. If your life is contrary to God's word then you haven't given your life as an offering. How do you know if you have given your life as an offering?
If people don't know you're a Christian, then they will ask who you are because you will be different. You will be full of life. Light will radiate from you. People will want what you have. You won't live a perfect life but Christ will reveal His perfection through you.
July 9, 2010
“God is sheer being itself—Spirit. Those who worship him must do it out of their very being, their spirits, their true selves, in adoration.” John 4:24 MSG
Read this verse over and over. What is the Spirit whispering to you?
God is not material though He is present amongst the material. God is not physical yet He became physical in His Son and He uses the physical. God created the physical and material, but God is Spirit and must be worshiped in Spirit. How?
"God spoke: 'Let us make human beings in our image, make them reflecting our nature." (Genesis 1:26 MSG) We were made as Spiritual beings so that we may know God and worship Him in the Spirit. Do you worship in the Spirit?
I must admit that I have difficulty worshiping in the Spirit. Sometimes I become lost thinking about the material things. I get lost in doing the physical things instead of allowing my Spirit to worship. I allow my mind to wander, thinking about what I will do after church or about what act I will do next in the service. I will sometimes think about everything but the words as I sing or read. But when I do focus and worship in the Spirit it is amazing.
Worship is not about what we do or say. Worship is about how and why we do and say things. When we worship we should be genuinely focused on God. The word worship in Hebrew is sahah meaning to depress, prostrate, to bow down. It means to humble yourself. When we worship we should do so in humility putting ourselves under God knowing that we are sinners deserving Gods just punishment but also knowing that God loves us and gave His Son to die for us so that we may be forgiven and be able to have a personal, loving relationship with Him. Worshiping in the Spirit means putting away your personal desires and desire God in a personal way. We can do this in Church, at home, at work, out on a walk, in prayer and anytime of the day.
I pray that you will be able to worship God in the Spirit, desiring Him in a personal way.
God is not material though He is present amongst the material. God is not physical yet He became physical in His Son and He uses the physical. God created the physical and material, but God is Spirit and must be worshiped in Spirit. How?
"God spoke: 'Let us make human beings in our image, make them reflecting our nature." (Genesis 1:26 MSG) We were made as Spiritual beings so that we may know God and worship Him in the Spirit. Do you worship in the Spirit?
I must admit that I have difficulty worshiping in the Spirit. Sometimes I become lost thinking about the material things. I get lost in doing the physical things instead of allowing my Spirit to worship. I allow my mind to wander, thinking about what I will do after church or about what act I will do next in the service. I will sometimes think about everything but the words as I sing or read. But when I do focus and worship in the Spirit it is amazing.
Worship is not about what we do or say. Worship is about how and why we do and say things. When we worship we should be genuinely focused on God. The word worship in Hebrew is sahah meaning to depress, prostrate, to bow down. It means to humble yourself. When we worship we should do so in humility putting ourselves under God knowing that we are sinners deserving Gods just punishment but also knowing that God loves us and gave His Son to die for us so that we may be forgiven and be able to have a personal, loving relationship with Him. Worshiping in the Spirit means putting away your personal desires and desire God in a personal way. We can do this in Church, at home, at work, out on a walk, in prayer and anytime of the day.
I pray that you will be able to worship God in the Spirit, desiring Him in a personal way.
July 10, 2010
“A man can do nothing better than to eat and drink and find satisfaction in his work.” Ecclesiastes 2:24
Read this verse over and over. What is the Spirit whispering to you?
King Solomon was given great wisdom, power, and riches yet he yearned for more. He searched for the meaning of life, for fulfillment. Toward the end of His years he is believed to of written Ecclesiastes. In Ecclesiastes he states that all that he did was meaningless, chasing after the wind. He learned that the meaning of life was right in front of Him yet He thought it was too simple. What is the meaning of life?
We are at an advantage to King Solomon because the meaning has not only been revealed but fulfilled. Jesus Christ is the meaning of life. Jesus is our savior; Jesus is Love. By Jesus all was created and redeemed. No matter what the issue, Jesus is the answer. We were created to give glory to God and point to Jesus as the savior of the world. What more is there?
We are given all we need to live and we are given all we need to witness. What more could we want?
We are given food, clothing, shelter, and a purpose. We have a place in this world yet we aren't always satisfied. I'm right there with you. I'm always looking for more; wishing for things and different circumstances. I get frustrated when I'm not in control forgetting that God is always in control. All this is meaningless, chasing after the wind. Learn from King Solomon, find satisfaction in what God has given you, food, clothing, shelter, your job, and your purpose. There is no better treasure than the hope in the promise of eternity with God.
King Solomon was given great wisdom, power, and riches yet he yearned for more. He searched for the meaning of life, for fulfillment. Toward the end of His years he is believed to of written Ecclesiastes. In Ecclesiastes he states that all that he did was meaningless, chasing after the wind. He learned that the meaning of life was right in front of Him yet He thought it was too simple. What is the meaning of life?
We are at an advantage to King Solomon because the meaning has not only been revealed but fulfilled. Jesus Christ is the meaning of life. Jesus is our savior; Jesus is Love. By Jesus all was created and redeemed. No matter what the issue, Jesus is the answer. We were created to give glory to God and point to Jesus as the savior of the world. What more is there?
We are given all we need to live and we are given all we need to witness. What more could we want?
We are given food, clothing, shelter, and a purpose. We have a place in this world yet we aren't always satisfied. I'm right there with you. I'm always looking for more; wishing for things and different circumstances. I get frustrated when I'm not in control forgetting that God is always in control. All this is meaningless, chasing after the wind. Learn from King Solomon, find satisfaction in what God has given you, food, clothing, shelter, your job, and your purpose. There is no better treasure than the hope in the promise of eternity with God.
July 12, 2010
“Can you drink the cup I am going to drink?” Matthew 20:22
As you read this again, what is Jesus whispering to you?
To give a little background: This was the answer to James and John's request to sit at the right and left of Jesus in His Kingdom. Whenever I read this text I think, how could they ask such a thing? How arrogant of them. I would never make such a request, would you?
I must admit while I would never ask that particular question, I do ask for things from God that I don't deserve. I also think along the same lines that James and John do when I see someone doing something and think I want to do that but I don't know what they had to do to get to the level that they are.
Jesus is also talking to us. You say that you are a Christian, a disciple of Christ, are you willing to drink the cup that God gives you?
If we are honest, we will answer that we don't want to drink that cup. We want the perks of being a believer but we don't want to put in the work and the suffering involved with being a Christian. We don't want to spend the extra time in prayer and Bible study. We especially don't want to suffer. When we pray we pray to keep us safe, to keep us healthy, to make us prosperous and to give us mountain top experiences. In order to reach the top of the mountain we must first go through the valley. In the valley we are humbled, we are broken to prepare us for the climb. The climb prepares us to appreciate the top. Then if we get to the top and forget the valley and the climb we make the next journey harder. Each valley and mountain prepares us for the next. We can't skip from mountain top to mountain top. Are you willing to drink the cup given to you; are you willing to go through the valley?
In reality we don't have a choice. Christ continues with His answer after they answer yes, “You will indeed drink from it,” (vs. 23). God loves us and knows what is best for us and he prepares our cups and valleys to help us. The cup maybe bitter and the valley tough but it is worth it in the end. Join me in a toast. Lift your cup and say "cheers."
To give a little background: This was the answer to James and John's request to sit at the right and left of Jesus in His Kingdom. Whenever I read this text I think, how could they ask such a thing? How arrogant of them. I would never make such a request, would you?
I must admit while I would never ask that particular question, I do ask for things from God that I don't deserve. I also think along the same lines that James and John do when I see someone doing something and think I want to do that but I don't know what they had to do to get to the level that they are.
Jesus is also talking to us. You say that you are a Christian, a disciple of Christ, are you willing to drink the cup that God gives you?
If we are honest, we will answer that we don't want to drink that cup. We want the perks of being a believer but we don't want to put in the work and the suffering involved with being a Christian. We don't want to spend the extra time in prayer and Bible study. We especially don't want to suffer. When we pray we pray to keep us safe, to keep us healthy, to make us prosperous and to give us mountain top experiences. In order to reach the top of the mountain we must first go through the valley. In the valley we are humbled, we are broken to prepare us for the climb. The climb prepares us to appreciate the top. Then if we get to the top and forget the valley and the climb we make the next journey harder. Each valley and mountain prepares us for the next. We can't skip from mountain top to mountain top. Are you willing to drink the cup given to you; are you willing to go through the valley?
In reality we don't have a choice. Christ continues with His answer after they answer yes, “You will indeed drink from it,” (vs. 23). God loves us and knows what is best for us and he prepares our cups and valleys to help us. The cup maybe bitter and the valley tough but it is worth it in the end. Join me in a toast. Lift your cup and say "cheers."
July 13, 2010
“Be sure to do what you should, for then you will enjoy the personal satisfaction of having done your work well, and you won't need to compare yourself to anyone else. For we are each responsible for our own conduct.” Galatians 6: 4-5 NLT
Read these verses over. What is God whispering to you?
Have you ever compared yourself to others?
While some comparison can be healthy, most of the time it isn't. We fall into the trap of trying to be someone we aren't. We try to "keep up with the Jones." This kind of behavior can lead to dissatisfaction of what we do and how God made us. We can get lost and fall out of God's purpose for our lives. This leads to the other side of this comparison; when we want others to change. Have you ever wanted someone to change, whether it is their behavior, attitude, or perspective?
One thing that frustrates me is that I can't change others. I may be able to affect change in someone but I can't change them. As a parent I should teach my children right from wrong and how to be a godly person but I can't treat other people like my children. When my personality clashes with someone else, I can't change their personality, but I can change how I react to their personality. When someone's mannerisms rub me the wrong way, I can't change them but I can change how I handle it.
Today's verses are about changing ourselves. We should not judge other people thinking that everyone around us should change either because they aren't as good as we are or because they make us feel bad or uncomfortable. We need to focus on being who God wants us to be. We need to do what we should. We need to be satisfied with who God made us to be and not compare ourselves to others. We need to change our reactions to others and not expect others to change their actions. There are no victims, only circumstances for growth.
Wow, God has convicted me this morning. Thanks be to God that though I am a sinner, He is faithful and just and will forgive my sins and will continue to guide me to who He wants me to be.
Have you ever compared yourself to others?
While some comparison can be healthy, most of the time it isn't. We fall into the trap of trying to be someone we aren't. We try to "keep up with the Jones." This kind of behavior can lead to dissatisfaction of what we do and how God made us. We can get lost and fall out of God's purpose for our lives. This leads to the other side of this comparison; when we want others to change. Have you ever wanted someone to change, whether it is their behavior, attitude, or perspective?
One thing that frustrates me is that I can't change others. I may be able to affect change in someone but I can't change them. As a parent I should teach my children right from wrong and how to be a godly person but I can't treat other people like my children. When my personality clashes with someone else, I can't change their personality, but I can change how I react to their personality. When someone's mannerisms rub me the wrong way, I can't change them but I can change how I handle it.
Today's verses are about changing ourselves. We should not judge other people thinking that everyone around us should change either because they aren't as good as we are or because they make us feel bad or uncomfortable. We need to focus on being who God wants us to be. We need to do what we should. We need to be satisfied with who God made us to be and not compare ourselves to others. We need to change our reactions to others and not expect others to change their actions. There are no victims, only circumstances for growth.
Wow, God has convicted me this morning. Thanks be to God that though I am a sinner, He is faithful and just and will forgive my sins and will continue to guide me to who He wants me to be.
July 14, 2010
“Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” Mark 6:31
Read this verse as if Christ is speaking directly to you. What else is He whispering?
This verse goes beyond the twenty minutes to an hour a day that you may be spending in stillness praying. This verse is talking about taking time out of your normal routine and rest in God. This may mean a vacation or it may mean spending a full day a week. Why?
Business is a favorite tool of the Devil. If the devil can keep us busy, if he can get us to hurry, then he can keep us from doing God's will, he can keep us from fulfilling our purpose. The devil will use crowds of people or even one person to apply pressure to do things that may even be good, but not God's purpose for our life. I fall victim to this every day. Between farming, my family, and church, I always have something that needs to be done. I schedule time for daily prayer and reflection but even that is hurried and sometimes I have to cut it short. What can I cut, what can you cut out of your busy life?
I can't fully answer this one right now. This verse doesn't say cut things out of your day but take time to get away from it all and rest. This doesn't mean taking a vacation and filling it with stuff. Again I fall victim to this. When I finally take a vacation I usually want to experience everything in that location, so I fill my vacation with business. In this verse Christ is calling us to rest with Him. What does that look like?
I'm not an expert at rest, but a year and a half ago I experienced what this verse is calling for. My wife and I went to Hawaii for a week. That was the first vacation that I sat back and just rested in God. We did stuff but we didn't hurry. We allowed things to just happen. Everything we did I was able to rest in God. It's hard to explain and I haven't experienced it since, but it was like everything we did was effortless, like God was carrying me in His hands and I was just watching. I experienced everything but my spirit was at rest. How do we accomplish this kind of rest?
I can't. It is a God thing. We must pray and give our time to God. Schedule time out and let God fully control that day or week. Then we must take that attitude with us in our work day. When we try to control everything all we accomplish is warring ourselves out; we are battling God. God always wins, but when we battle we get even more tired than we should. We need to stop battling and rest in God. We need to take a time out and focus on God and His purpose for us.
This verse goes beyond the twenty minutes to an hour a day that you may be spending in stillness praying. This verse is talking about taking time out of your normal routine and rest in God. This may mean a vacation or it may mean spending a full day a week. Why?
Business is a favorite tool of the Devil. If the devil can keep us busy, if he can get us to hurry, then he can keep us from doing God's will, he can keep us from fulfilling our purpose. The devil will use crowds of people or even one person to apply pressure to do things that may even be good, but not God's purpose for our life. I fall victim to this every day. Between farming, my family, and church, I always have something that needs to be done. I schedule time for daily prayer and reflection but even that is hurried and sometimes I have to cut it short. What can I cut, what can you cut out of your busy life?
I can't fully answer this one right now. This verse doesn't say cut things out of your day but take time to get away from it all and rest. This doesn't mean taking a vacation and filling it with stuff. Again I fall victim to this. When I finally take a vacation I usually want to experience everything in that location, so I fill my vacation with business. In this verse Christ is calling us to rest with Him. What does that look like?
I'm not an expert at rest, but a year and a half ago I experienced what this verse is calling for. My wife and I went to Hawaii for a week. That was the first vacation that I sat back and just rested in God. We did stuff but we didn't hurry. We allowed things to just happen. Everything we did I was able to rest in God. It's hard to explain and I haven't experienced it since, but it was like everything we did was effortless, like God was carrying me in His hands and I was just watching. I experienced everything but my spirit was at rest. How do we accomplish this kind of rest?
I can't. It is a God thing. We must pray and give our time to God. Schedule time out and let God fully control that day or week. Then we must take that attitude with us in our work day. When we try to control everything all we accomplish is warring ourselves out; we are battling God. God always wins, but when we battle we get even more tired than we should. We need to stop battling and rest in God. We need to take a time out and focus on God and His purpose for us.
July 15, 2010
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” Psalm 147:3
Read this verse over and over. What is God whispering to you?
Believe it or not God loves you. He loves us even in those moments of heartache and brokenness. God is always with us even if we don't feel it. When we are the most miserable, God is holding us in His arms comforting us. When we are broken and can't go one, He picks us up and carries us. Can you feel Him right now?
If you can great, just rest in His presence right now. If you can't feel God's presence try this exercise:
Close your eyes, breathe in and out slowly and deeply letting go of your stress and pain with each breath. Focus on this phrase: "God loves me." Start by saying it out loud and repeat it slowly with each breath. Start to repeat the phrase in your mind instead of out loud. After a while slowly let the phrase go and feel God's love cover you. Feel God's arms wrap around you and hold you. Allow God's love to envelope you, feel the warmth and comfort of His love. Allow God's love to fill you and heal your brokenness. If you feel any quilt, ask for forgiveness and feel God's forgiveness heal you. Allow the Love of God to become you. Rest in His love.
I pray that you are blessed in this exercise; that you are healed and filled with the Spirit. I pray that you are able to take God's love with you today and are able to spread it to all you meet.
Believe it or not God loves you. He loves us even in those moments of heartache and brokenness. God is always with us even if we don't feel it. When we are the most miserable, God is holding us in His arms comforting us. When we are broken and can't go one, He picks us up and carries us. Can you feel Him right now?
If you can great, just rest in His presence right now. If you can't feel God's presence try this exercise:
Close your eyes, breathe in and out slowly and deeply letting go of your stress and pain with each breath. Focus on this phrase: "God loves me." Start by saying it out loud and repeat it slowly with each breath. Start to repeat the phrase in your mind instead of out loud. After a while slowly let the phrase go and feel God's love cover you. Feel God's arms wrap around you and hold you. Allow God's love to envelope you, feel the warmth and comfort of His love. Allow God's love to fill you and heal your brokenness. If you feel any quilt, ask for forgiveness and feel God's forgiveness heal you. Allow the Love of God to become you. Rest in His love.
I pray that you are blessed in this exercise; that you are healed and filled with the Spirit. I pray that you are able to take God's love with you today and are able to spread it to all you meet.
July 16, 2010
“Let every detail in your lives—words, actions, whatever—be done in the name of the Master, Jesus…” Colossians 3:17 MSG
Read this verse over. What is the Spirit whispering to you?
Do you live your life in the Name of Jesus?
This is a tough one. Every detail, even those times that nobody is around or only those closes to you. Do you act the same at home as you do out in the public?
Often we live differently depending on where we are and who is around us. We act one way in front of our boss but another in front of our spouse. We act yet another way at church. Why? Are we afraid of what people will think, or do we think Jesus only sees us at Church?
Jesus is with us all the time whether we realize it or not. We should live as He wants us to live, not how others think we should live. Every word, every action, and all our thoughts should point to Jesus. This doesn't mean we have to quote the Bible all the time. It means we live the Bible. We exist because God made us. We are "fearfully and wonderfully made." (Psalm 139:14). All that we have was given to us by God. We owe Him our lives. The least we can do is live for Him, are you?
I'm not, at least to the extent that I should. I am a sinner, but God knew that we would fail Him. He had a plan to save us. He sent His only son, Jesus, to die for us. We are forgiven. Stop trying to hide your sin and repent, then live your life for Jesus.
Do you live your life in the Name of Jesus?
This is a tough one. Every detail, even those times that nobody is around or only those closes to you. Do you act the same at home as you do out in the public?
Often we live differently depending on where we are and who is around us. We act one way in front of our boss but another in front of our spouse. We act yet another way at church. Why? Are we afraid of what people will think, or do we think Jesus only sees us at Church?
Jesus is with us all the time whether we realize it or not. We should live as He wants us to live, not how others think we should live. Every word, every action, and all our thoughts should point to Jesus. This doesn't mean we have to quote the Bible all the time. It means we live the Bible. We exist because God made us. We are "fearfully and wonderfully made." (Psalm 139:14). All that we have was given to us by God. We owe Him our lives. The least we can do is live for Him, are you?
I'm not, at least to the extent that I should. I am a sinner, but God knew that we would fail Him. He had a plan to save us. He sent His only son, Jesus, to die for us. We are forgiven. Stop trying to hide your sin and repent, then live your life for Jesus.
July 17, 2010
“So I find this law at work: When I want to do good, evil is right there with me… What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death? Thanks be to God—through Jesus Christ our Lord!” Romans 7:21, 24-25
Read these verses over. What is the Spirit whispering to you?
We want to do good, but why do we continue to sin?
It is because of our motives. When we try to do things we are relying on our strength. When we yearn to do what we desire, again we are following our own motives. I struggle with this daily. I want to do good and not sin; I want to do God's will and please Him, but these things are focused on me. Even when my will is to do His will, I am still following my will. We must die to self and become God's servant instead of trying to be God's servant. How do you do this?
When you figure it out please tell me, I'm still searching. Sin is human nature. That isn't an excuse, it is a fact. Our flesh is full of sin. It is impossible for us to resist it completely and so we are doomed. But thanks be to God nothing is impossible with God. Jesus has conquered sin and by Him sin can be conquered in us. Pray something like this: Father God, I am tired of fighting. I realize that I can't resist sin, but you can. I surrender my life to you. Use me for your purpose. Empty me of me and fill me with you. In Jesus Christ's name I pray, Amen.
We want to do good, but why do we continue to sin?
It is because of our motives. When we try to do things we are relying on our strength. When we yearn to do what we desire, again we are following our own motives. I struggle with this daily. I want to do good and not sin; I want to do God's will and please Him, but these things are focused on me. Even when my will is to do His will, I am still following my will. We must die to self and become God's servant instead of trying to be God's servant. How do you do this?
When you figure it out please tell me, I'm still searching. Sin is human nature. That isn't an excuse, it is a fact. Our flesh is full of sin. It is impossible for us to resist it completely and so we are doomed. But thanks be to God nothing is impossible with God. Jesus has conquered sin and by Him sin can be conquered in us. Pray something like this: Father God, I am tired of fighting. I realize that I can't resist sin, but you can. I surrender my life to you. Use me for your purpose. Empty me of me and fill me with you. In Jesus Christ's name I pray, Amen.
July 19, 2010
“So if you're serious about living this new resurrection life with Christ, act like it. Pursue the things over which Christ presides. Don't shuffle along, eyes to the ground, absorbed with the things right in front of you. Look up, and be alert to what is going on around Christ—that's where the action is. See things from his perspective. Your old life is dead. Your new life, which is your real life—even though invisible to spectators—is with Christ in God. He is your life.” Colossians 3:1-3 MSG
This is a long one. Read it slowly and deliberately. What is Christ whispering to you?
How can you see it, you know, your real life, God?
Our perception gives us mental images of God. Is the image that you picture of God the right image? How do you know?
What we perceive God to be is clouded by our experiences; memories, so to speak. Our perception keeps us from seeing the true God. Our perception keeps us from living our true life, this new life in Christ. We live as we understand and our understanding is influenced by what we experience. In order to live in Christ, we must let go of our old life. We must go beyond our memories, beyond our perception and be filled with the Spirit. We can no longer see through our old eyes, but we must learn to see through our new spiritual eyes. Do you want to truly live?
I want to live the real life, life in Christ, but I cannot on my own. I can't let go of my memory. My flesh clings and my desires overwhelm me. Only by letting go can I live, but I can only let go if God helps me. Let's try another exercise: This time I want you to start by praying: Father, I am weak, I cannot let go on my own but I want to. Help me to see you and live the life you have for me. Help me to see beyond my memories. Help me to live beyond my perception. Give me your sight to see you. In Christ's name I pray. Amen.
After praying this prayer, close your eyes and let go. Allow God to reveal himself in you. Shut out your vision and see through His eyes. Throughout the day allow God to show you what you should see. Allow God to give you the thoughts you should think and act as He guides you.
May God bless you to live the real life, His life.
How can you see it, you know, your real life, God?
Our perception gives us mental images of God. Is the image that you picture of God the right image? How do you know?
What we perceive God to be is clouded by our experiences; memories, so to speak. Our perception keeps us from seeing the true God. Our perception keeps us from living our true life, this new life in Christ. We live as we understand and our understanding is influenced by what we experience. In order to live in Christ, we must let go of our old life. We must go beyond our memories, beyond our perception and be filled with the Spirit. We can no longer see through our old eyes, but we must learn to see through our new spiritual eyes. Do you want to truly live?
I want to live the real life, life in Christ, but I cannot on my own. I can't let go of my memory. My flesh clings and my desires overwhelm me. Only by letting go can I live, but I can only let go if God helps me. Let's try another exercise: This time I want you to start by praying: Father, I am weak, I cannot let go on my own but I want to. Help me to see you and live the life you have for me. Help me to see beyond my memories. Help me to live beyond my perception. Give me your sight to see you. In Christ's name I pray. Amen.
After praying this prayer, close your eyes and let go. Allow God to reveal himself in you. Shut out your vision and see through His eyes. Throughout the day allow God to show you what you should see. Allow God to give you the thoughts you should think and act as He guides you.
May God bless you to live the real life, His life.
July 20, 2010
“Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. Who 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.” Romans 8:33-34
Read these verses once more. What is God whispering to you?
As you become closer to God, people will notice. Some people will try to stop you. They will mock you, discourage you, accuse you, and they may try to flatter you and say things like "you have worked so hard, you should take a break." Don't be afraid of the mocking and accusations. The only charges you need to worry about are those that God may bring to you, for God is the only one who can condemn and justify. Instead beware of discouragement and flattery because they will come from people who appear to be offering Godly advice. How can you tell if it is from God or from the Devil and the world?
Those from God will lead you toward salvation though it may hurt. Those not from God will lead you away from salvation. This is why it is so important to read the Bible. Anything contrary to the Bible is false teaching. In the end, Jesus Christ is all that matters. Always point to Him and follow those who do the same. Continue to pray and study the Bible and God will reveal the truth to you. We will make mistakes, we will fall into sin, but God will forgive you if you repent. Jesus has already paid for the sin that you are about to commit. So the question is who will you follow those who cherish the gift or those who want to throw it away? Will you walk in the light or will you follow in the darkness?
As you become closer to God, people will notice. Some people will try to stop you. They will mock you, discourage you, accuse you, and they may try to flatter you and say things like "you have worked so hard, you should take a break." Don't be afraid of the mocking and accusations. The only charges you need to worry about are those that God may bring to you, for God is the only one who can condemn and justify. Instead beware of discouragement and flattery because they will come from people who appear to be offering Godly advice. How can you tell if it is from God or from the Devil and the world?
Those from God will lead you toward salvation though it may hurt. Those not from God will lead you away from salvation. This is why it is so important to read the Bible. Anything contrary to the Bible is false teaching. In the end, Jesus Christ is all that matters. Always point to Him and follow those who do the same. Continue to pray and study the Bible and God will reveal the truth to you. We will make mistakes, we will fall into sin, but God will forgive you if you repent. Jesus has already paid for the sin that you are about to commit. So the question is who will you follow those who cherish the gift or those who want to throw it away? Will you walk in the light or will you follow in the darkness?
July 21, 2010
“More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.” Romans 5:3-5 ESV
Prayerfully read these verses again. What is the Spirit whispering to you?
As we grow in faith we will realize that suffering is not a bad thing. We won't always welcome it or even look forward to it but we will realize that it is an important part of our faith journey. As we go through this journey of suffering we are given endurance, character, and hope among other things. Hope is what will give us reason. Hope in the promise of eternal life with God is what keeps us going. As that hope becomes stronger through suffering we will be able to endure anything even death. Death will no longer be the end but the beginning.
Are you ready to rejoice in suffering?
As we grow in faith we will realize that suffering is not a bad thing. We won't always welcome it or even look forward to it but we will realize that it is an important part of our faith journey. As we go through this journey of suffering we are given endurance, character, and hope among other things. Hope is what will give us reason. Hope in the promise of eternal life with God is what keeps us going. As that hope becomes stronger through suffering we will be able to endure anything even death. Death will no longer be the end but the beginning.
Are you ready to rejoice in suffering?
July 22, 2010
“Do not despise these small beginnings, for the LORD rejoices to see the work begin…" Zechariah 4:10 NLT
Read this verse over and over. What is the Spirit whispering to you?
Some of us may be frustrated at this point. You are reading the Bible and praying regularly and yet no big changes. You are still struggling with hearing God and/or doing God's will. Don't despair. We must learn to walk before we can run. We like to think in big ideas; we like the big show, but sometimes the difference is in the minor things. Sometimes the big change is just a minor adjustment in us. God uses small beginnings to change the world. Who would have looked at a babe wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger and think that He would save the world?
God is not too big to use the small and you are not too small for God to use you. Remember, what we see as small things, God uses to accomplish His will. You are only in the small beginnings of a lifetime of growth.
Some of us may be frustrated at this point. You are reading the Bible and praying regularly and yet no big changes. You are still struggling with hearing God and/or doing God's will. Don't despair. We must learn to walk before we can run. We like to think in big ideas; we like the big show, but sometimes the difference is in the minor things. Sometimes the big change is just a minor adjustment in us. God uses small beginnings to change the world. Who would have looked at a babe wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger and think that He would save the world?
God is not too big to use the small and you are not too small for God to use you. Remember, what we see as small things, God uses to accomplish His will. You are only in the small beginnings of a lifetime of growth.
July 23, 2010
“As you come to him, the living Stone —rejected by men but chosen by God and precious to him—you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood” 1 Peter 2: 4-5
Read these verses over. What is Jesus whispering to you?
As we seek a closer relationship with Jesus, the building blocks are laid. Those building blocks are laid by prayer and reading the Bible. As we live by the word through prayer the temple inside is built and filled by the Holy Spirit. Those blocks cannot be built by anything we do though we try to build it on our own. What happens to the blocks that we lay?
The blocks that we build will not stand. When we go through times of struggle our blocks crumble, but the blocks built by the Holy Spirit stand strong and help us through those times of trial. As we travel our path of faith, we will continue to build on our own and God will continue to purify us through times of struggle, but the more our Spiritual House is built the less we will build on it. Why?
As our Spiritual House is built by God, it is filled as well. Over time the Holy Spirit will become stronger in us helping us to live Godly lives.
As we seek a closer relationship with Jesus, the building blocks are laid. Those building blocks are laid by prayer and reading the Bible. As we live by the word through prayer the temple inside is built and filled by the Holy Spirit. Those blocks cannot be built by anything we do though we try to build it on our own. What happens to the blocks that we lay?
The blocks that we build will not stand. When we go through times of struggle our blocks crumble, but the blocks built by the Holy Spirit stand strong and help us through those times of trial. As we travel our path of faith, we will continue to build on our own and God will continue to purify us through times of struggle, but the more our Spiritual House is built the less we will build on it. Why?
As our Spiritual House is built by God, it is filled as well. Over time the Holy Spirit will become stronger in us helping us to live Godly lives.
July 24, 2010
“…whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst.” John 4:14
Read this verse over and over. What is Jesus whispering to you?
After a hot week we need to take a drink and cool off. Let us dive in and go deeper. Come on in the water is cool and refreshing. Real life lies ahead in this pool of Living Water. What is keeping you from being filled with the Living Water?
The water that Jesus gives us is not something that we should sip every once in awhile. We need to drink all of it, the whole cup. We need to immerse ourselves fully. Experience the new life that awaits us after we drink our fill. What is the Living Water?
The Living Water is Love, but not just any love, it is God's love. Without it we are empty, but with it we are more than full, we are overflowing. God's love more than fills us up; it overflows to all whom we meet. The love of Jesus penetrates deep within us. It is more deadly than anything we know but it is also healing to all who receive it. The love of Jesus is poison to our flesh but it is life to our soul. It is an arrow that penetrates the heart and kills the unbeliever but out of the ashes new life springs forth. How can you receive this Living Water?
We cannot draw it ourselves. There is no pump that we can use. It is a gift of God given to us out of His love and mercy. We can't earn it, but when it is offered we should not run from it, nor should be just take a small drink. We need to drink all that is offered. It may burn at first but after the pain comes joy. That empty hole that you have failed to fill, that deep down thirst that could not be quenched will be satisfied. Through prayer and meditation on the Bible Jesus will give us the Living Water. What are you waiting for? Dive in, take a drink and gulp it down. Be filled to overflowing and live.
After a hot week we need to take a drink and cool off. Let us dive in and go deeper. Come on in the water is cool and refreshing. Real life lies ahead in this pool of Living Water. What is keeping you from being filled with the Living Water?
The water that Jesus gives us is not something that we should sip every once in awhile. We need to drink all of it, the whole cup. We need to immerse ourselves fully. Experience the new life that awaits us after we drink our fill. What is the Living Water?
The Living Water is Love, but not just any love, it is God's love. Without it we are empty, but with it we are more than full, we are overflowing. God's love more than fills us up; it overflows to all whom we meet. The love of Jesus penetrates deep within us. It is more deadly than anything we know but it is also healing to all who receive it. The love of Jesus is poison to our flesh but it is life to our soul. It is an arrow that penetrates the heart and kills the unbeliever but out of the ashes new life springs forth. How can you receive this Living Water?
We cannot draw it ourselves. There is no pump that we can use. It is a gift of God given to us out of His love and mercy. We can't earn it, but when it is offered we should not run from it, nor should be just take a small drink. We need to drink all that is offered. It may burn at first but after the pain comes joy. That empty hole that you have failed to fill, that deep down thirst that could not be quenched will be satisfied. Through prayer and meditation on the Bible Jesus will give us the Living Water. What are you waiting for? Dive in, take a drink and gulp it down. Be filled to overflowing and live.
July 26, 2010
“I came so they can have real and eternal life, more and better life than they ever dreamed of.” John 10:10 MSG
Read this verse over this time replacing "they" with "you", like this: “I came so you can have real and eternal life, more and better life than you ever dreamed of.” What is Jesus whispering to you?
What is the real and eternal life that Jesus is speaking of?
The real life is life with Jesus, more than that, life with the Love of Jesus. This life is a real love story, life with real love that lasts for eternity, not just a few years or even a lifetime, but eternity. God sent His one and only son to die for you. Jesus died knowing the sin you would commit. Jesus died knowing that you would turn your back on Him. Jesus died so that you could be forgiven and have a personal loving relationship with God through Jesus. Jesus died so that you would have the real and eternal life with Him. How will you accept that Love? Will you take it and leave it as you please? Or will you enjoy it and allow it to lead you to experience real life?
When we allow Jesus' Love to penetrate us we can't help but follow it. We can't help but to share it with others. This love is so big that we can't keep it all inside, it will overflow. Are you experiencing the real Life?
The real life gives joy not just happiness. Happiness is a moment to moment feeling, where joy lasts even during the hard times. Joy penetrates deep within where happiness is only on the surface. Joy is something that we could never dream of because it can't truly be experienced without Jesus. Allow Jesus to give you real life and you will want nothing less.
What is the real and eternal life that Jesus is speaking of?
The real life is life with Jesus, more than that, life with the Love of Jesus. This life is a real love story, life with real love that lasts for eternity, not just a few years or even a lifetime, but eternity. God sent His one and only son to die for you. Jesus died knowing the sin you would commit. Jesus died knowing that you would turn your back on Him. Jesus died so that you could be forgiven and have a personal loving relationship with God through Jesus. Jesus died so that you would have the real and eternal life with Him. How will you accept that Love? Will you take it and leave it as you please? Or will you enjoy it and allow it to lead you to experience real life?
When we allow Jesus' Love to penetrate us we can't help but follow it. We can't help but to share it with others. This love is so big that we can't keep it all inside, it will overflow. Are you experiencing the real Life?
The real life gives joy not just happiness. Happiness is a moment to moment feeling, where joy lasts even during the hard times. Joy penetrates deep within where happiness is only on the surface. Joy is something that we could never dream of because it can't truly be experienced without Jesus. Allow Jesus to give you real life and you will want nothing less.
July 27, 2010
“Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms.” 1 Peter 4:10
Read this verse again. What is the Spirit whispering to you?
God could with a blink of an eye or one spoken word cause all people to know and believe, but He chose us, the children of God, to reveal His grace to others. God has given each of us gifts, talents or abilities, to use to serve His purpose. We are here to show God's glory and administer His Grace. We each have an important role to play in God's plan. What is yours?
I can't tell you, only the Spirit can, but this web site is designed to help you realize your God given purpose. Prayer and reading the Bible is the best tools to help us understand our purpose. We may never know what our actions have done, but you can know how you are to serve God. Let's start with what are your God given gifts?
Think about your talents and abilities. What are you good at, what do you enjoy doing? These are gifts from God. Sometimes we don't know all of our gifts. Follow the guidance of the Holy Spirit, don't be afraid to step out of your box and try new things, you may find hidden talents. Sometimes things that we feel are our weaknesses turn out to be a gift that God wants us to use. I can't tell you, but God can. Pray for guidance and strength to do His will.
God doesn't need you, He wants you. Out of His love for you, He has included you in His perfect plan. God will use you to connect someone to Him. Don't be afraid to fail. God will use even your failures to serve His purpose. I pray that you will be the instrument that God made you to be.
God could with a blink of an eye or one spoken word cause all people to know and believe, but He chose us, the children of God, to reveal His grace to others. God has given each of us gifts, talents or abilities, to use to serve His purpose. We are here to show God's glory and administer His Grace. We each have an important role to play in God's plan. What is yours?
I can't tell you, only the Spirit can, but this web site is designed to help you realize your God given purpose. Prayer and reading the Bible is the best tools to help us understand our purpose. We may never know what our actions have done, but you can know how you are to serve God. Let's start with what are your God given gifts?
Think about your talents and abilities. What are you good at, what do you enjoy doing? These are gifts from God. Sometimes we don't know all of our gifts. Follow the guidance of the Holy Spirit, don't be afraid to step out of your box and try new things, you may find hidden talents. Sometimes things that we feel are our weaknesses turn out to be a gift that God wants us to use. I can't tell you, but God can. Pray for guidance and strength to do His will.
God doesn't need you, He wants you. Out of His love for you, He has included you in His perfect plan. God will use you to connect someone to Him. Don't be afraid to fail. God will use even your failures to serve His purpose. I pray that you will be the instrument that God made you to be.
July 28, 2010
“Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who…made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant…humbled himself…” Philippians 2:5-8
Read this verse over and over. What is Jesus whispering to you?
Being focused on yourself isn't a bad thing; we need to focus on who God made us and how He is shaping us, but when it comes to leading our lives we must be outward focused. We are here to serve others, that is our purpose. Other's need should be set before our needs. Jesus set the example, He washed the apostle's feet, they didn't wash His. Many times the people interrupted what Jesus was doing, but Jesus helped them anyway. When someone comes to you in need how do you respond?
I must admit that I didn't want to write this one this morning. Last night as I prayerfully read, the Spirit convicted me. When I write these Daily Meds, often I am interrupted by my family with a need, but I respond by getting upset and telling them I'm busy. As I think about my life, this is a theme; I am very busy serving the church but in my busyness I miss opportunities to serve people. Sometimes there are distractions to keep us from doing God's will, but people in need should never be considered a distraction. When we serve people, we serve Jesus. When we visit the sick, we serve Jesus. When we help open a jar for our kids, we serve Jesus. When we help a coworker who seems to have a bad day everyday, we serve Jesus. Just doing what we like or only what we are good at isn't true service. Sometimes we need to do the things that we don't like, for example visiting the nursing home or hospital, getting up in the middle of the night to comfort the kids, changing dippers, helping that coworker who is always late, or comes in on Monday with a hangover, or is always in a foul mood, we should be a friend to the friendless, all of these things are serving Jesus. Well I've been convicted, have you?
I have good news; forgiveness is ours for the asking. Jesus died knowing that we would sin. I have more good news; God gives us another chance everyday to serve Him. Max Lucado, in His book "Cure for the Common Life" puts forth this challenge: "Everyday do something you don't want to do." When you see a need or are asked to help, instead of shrugging it off and making excuses, help, even if you're too busy, or too tired, or even if it isn't your strength, help anyway, you are serving Jesus.
Being focused on yourself isn't a bad thing; we need to focus on who God made us and how He is shaping us, but when it comes to leading our lives we must be outward focused. We are here to serve others, that is our purpose. Other's need should be set before our needs. Jesus set the example, He washed the apostle's feet, they didn't wash His. Many times the people interrupted what Jesus was doing, but Jesus helped them anyway. When someone comes to you in need how do you respond?
I must admit that I didn't want to write this one this morning. Last night as I prayerfully read, the Spirit convicted me. When I write these Daily Meds, often I am interrupted by my family with a need, but I respond by getting upset and telling them I'm busy. As I think about my life, this is a theme; I am very busy serving the church but in my busyness I miss opportunities to serve people. Sometimes there are distractions to keep us from doing God's will, but people in need should never be considered a distraction. When we serve people, we serve Jesus. When we visit the sick, we serve Jesus. When we help open a jar for our kids, we serve Jesus. When we help a coworker who seems to have a bad day everyday, we serve Jesus. Just doing what we like or only what we are good at isn't true service. Sometimes we need to do the things that we don't like, for example visiting the nursing home or hospital, getting up in the middle of the night to comfort the kids, changing dippers, helping that coworker who is always late, or comes in on Monday with a hangover, or is always in a foul mood, we should be a friend to the friendless, all of these things are serving Jesus. Well I've been convicted, have you?
I have good news; forgiveness is ours for the asking. Jesus died knowing that we would sin. I have more good news; God gives us another chance everyday to serve Him. Max Lucado, in His book "Cure for the Common Life" puts forth this challenge: "Everyday do something you don't want to do." When you see a need or are asked to help, instead of shrugging it off and making excuses, help, even if you're too busy, or too tired, or even if it isn't your strength, help anyway, you are serving Jesus.
July 29, 2010
“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes?” Matthew 6:25
Read this verse over. What is Jesus whispering to you?
Times are tough right now. You may be worried about finding a job, or worried about keeping the job you have. Maybe you are worried about higher taxes or higher inflation. As a farmer I worry about the weather and markets. What does worrying do?
So far my worrying has only caused lost sleep and I have missed moments of joy. So if worrying doesn't help, why do we worry?
It's about trust and control. We don't trust anything that we don't have control over. I am as guilty as anyone, but God has taught me something; when I worry I need to take a deep breath and let go of control and trust God. I pray a prayer like this: "Lord, I can't do this on my own so I am going to trust you knowing that you are in control." Next time you worry try praying this prayer or something similar and feel the joy of knowing and trusting God.
Times are tough right now. You may be worried about finding a job, or worried about keeping the job you have. Maybe you are worried about higher taxes or higher inflation. As a farmer I worry about the weather and markets. What does worrying do?
So far my worrying has only caused lost sleep and I have missed moments of joy. So if worrying doesn't help, why do we worry?
It's about trust and control. We don't trust anything that we don't have control over. I am as guilty as anyone, but God has taught me something; when I worry I need to take a deep breath and let go of control and trust God. I pray a prayer like this: "Lord, I can't do this on my own so I am going to trust you knowing that you are in control." Next time you worry try praying this prayer or something similar and feel the joy of knowing and trusting God.
July 30, 2010
“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Mark 10:45
Read this verse over and over. What is Jesus whispering to you?
Jesus not only humbled Himself to become man but He lived a life of service. Why, after all He is God, our king, our savior, why would He then live as a servant?
In this verse we learn that Jesus came for two purposes. We all know that He came to die for our sins, and here He explains that His life is a ransom for many. He traded His life for ours. Jesus paid the price of our sin with His life, but that is not the only reason He came. He came to serve. This one throws me a little. Jesus had every right to come and be served. He is God and He came to pay for our sin so of course we should serve Him, but that wasn't His plan. We owe Jesus our life, but He didn't require anything in return. Why?
It's that thing called Grace. Jesus came to serve not only to set an example for us, but so that no one can say they earned salvation. No one can say that Jesus owed them anything. You can call yourself a servant of God, but can anyone truly serve God?
Not by our own power. (This is one of those things that is hard to explain and understand). We by our very nature are born opposed to God, but God fills us with His Holy Spirit so that we can serve Him. Without the Spirit we can do nothing good, not one thing. God gives us grace as a free gift, no one deserves it. Once we are saved by the grace of God, we become a new creature. One made to mirror Jesus, one made to reveal God to everyone we meet. It's not what we do, it is who we are. Stop trying so hard to serve God and be who He has made you to be, the servant of God. Allow the Spirit to control you. It's a matter of attitude and understanding.
Today I ask that you meditate on the statement "it's not what we do, it's who we are." What does this mean? How can you live this way? May God bless you with this meditation.
Jesus not only humbled Himself to become man but He lived a life of service. Why, after all He is God, our king, our savior, why would He then live as a servant?
In this verse we learn that Jesus came for two purposes. We all know that He came to die for our sins, and here He explains that His life is a ransom for many. He traded His life for ours. Jesus paid the price of our sin with His life, but that is not the only reason He came. He came to serve. This one throws me a little. Jesus had every right to come and be served. He is God and He came to pay for our sin so of course we should serve Him, but that wasn't His plan. We owe Jesus our life, but He didn't require anything in return. Why?
It's that thing called Grace. Jesus came to serve not only to set an example for us, but so that no one can say they earned salvation. No one can say that Jesus owed them anything. You can call yourself a servant of God, but can anyone truly serve God?
Not by our own power. (This is one of those things that is hard to explain and understand). We by our very nature are born opposed to God, but God fills us with His Holy Spirit so that we can serve Him. Without the Spirit we can do nothing good, not one thing. God gives us grace as a free gift, no one deserves it. Once we are saved by the grace of God, we become a new creature. One made to mirror Jesus, one made to reveal God to everyone we meet. It's not what we do, it is who we are. Stop trying so hard to serve God and be who He has made you to be, the servant of God. Allow the Spirit to control you. It's a matter of attitude and understanding.
Today I ask that you meditate on the statement "it's not what we do, it's who we are." What does this mean? How can you live this way? May God bless you with this meditation.
July 31, 2010
“Can anyone hide in secret places so that I cannot see him?’ declares the LORD. ‘Do not I fill heaven and earth?” Jeremiah 23:24
Read this verse over and over. What is God whispering to you?
Can you picture God next to you?
Many have a hard time believing that God is everywhere especially with them. They see bad things happening and use that as proof that God isn't everywhere. They think that if God was present then bad things wouldn't happen. I can see their point but they are trying to see and understand God with human understanding. We cannot see God with our eyes even though evidence of God is everywhere. We cannot comprehend God with our minds. Only when God is revealed by His Spirit can we then see Him with our spiritual eyes. For example how can we fully explain that God is everywhere?
The idea that God is everywhere is beyond our ability to rationalize. There is no scientific test or gauge that could prove or explain this attribute of God, yet the Bible says it in this verse. Why is it important to understand this attribute of God?
If we can't picture God everywhere then how can we trust in His protection, how can we pray to Him?
If God is everywhere then we must except that God allows bad things to happen to us. When we understand this we then will understand that the struggles that we go through in this life are for a reason and in the end it is what is best for us. I know if you are in the middle of tough times you can't think about this, but don't trust me, trust God. He will get you through those tough times and you will be better for it.
I pray that God will fill you with His Spirit and reveal Himself to you so that you may have hope during your times of need.
Can you picture God next to you?
Many have a hard time believing that God is everywhere especially with them. They see bad things happening and use that as proof that God isn't everywhere. They think that if God was present then bad things wouldn't happen. I can see their point but they are trying to see and understand God with human understanding. We cannot see God with our eyes even though evidence of God is everywhere. We cannot comprehend God with our minds. Only when God is revealed by His Spirit can we then see Him with our spiritual eyes. For example how can we fully explain that God is everywhere?
The idea that God is everywhere is beyond our ability to rationalize. There is no scientific test or gauge that could prove or explain this attribute of God, yet the Bible says it in this verse. Why is it important to understand this attribute of God?
If we can't picture God everywhere then how can we trust in His protection, how can we pray to Him?
If God is everywhere then we must except that God allows bad things to happen to us. When we understand this we then will understand that the struggles that we go through in this life are for a reason and in the end it is what is best for us. I know if you are in the middle of tough times you can't think about this, but don't trust me, trust God. He will get you through those tough times and you will be better for it.
I pray that God will fill you with His Spirit and reveal Himself to you so that you may have hope during your times of need.
email me at:
ablaue@goddireciton.com
ablaue@goddireciton.com