TITLE: Grace in Action
SCRIPTURE: John 13:1, Having loved his own who were in the world, he now showed them the full extent of his love.
OBSERVATION: I have always been intrigued by this passage, which reveals that during the last supper with his disciples, Jesus knew he would be giving his life for them, and he knew the Father had placed all power and authority into his hands. At that point Jesus had the power and authority to wipe out the puny leadership of the Sanhedrin and the Roman soldiers, and establish his kingdom here on earth. But instead, Jesus chose to follow the wishes of the Father, to administer grace and demonstrate ‘the full extent of his love.’ This obedience would result in Jesus suffering a violent death on the cross, and experiencing an unimaginable spiritual darkness with the weight of our sins on his shoulders.
APPLICATION: It’s been said that ‘grace’ is getting what we don’t deserve. Jesus’ willful death is an understatement of this definition. Jesus intended through this grace in action to demonstrate to us how we should extend grace to others as well. No matter what our education, or position, we should always follow Jesus’ example of demonstrating our grace as a basis of our love toward others. For grace without love is just service. But grace with love glorifies the Father.
PRAYER: Jesus, thank you for the inexpressible act of grace you lived out through your death on the cross for us. Because of this act we have a hope of being with you in heaven through eternity. Thank you for your example of what grace in action looks like, and pour out your love to us so that we can freely overflow it to others in our life.
Sunday, August 10th by Randy
TITLE:
“Pious Reponses”
SCRIPTURE: John 12: 4-6
[4] But one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, who was later to betray him, objected, [5] “Why wasn't this perfume sold and the money given to the poor? It was worth a year's wages. * ” [6] He did not say this because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief; as keeper of the money bag, he used to help himself to what was put into it.
OBSERVATION:
Every Gospel has an account of a woman anointing Jesus. What amazing, is that they don’t all appear to be the same incidents. Jesus is “anointed for burial” by women who deeply cared for Him and wanted to serve Him. So as Jesus sat at a home in Bethany, Mary came and poured a costly bottle of perfume on his feet. The text says, the “house was filled with the fragrance.” This reminds me that whenever we do something for Jesus, the fragrance of service fills the air!!
This morning, what stood out to me was Judas’ reaction. Rather than supporting Mary’s act of submission, he objected and gave what I call a ‘pious response’ – “Why this waste? The perfume might have been sold and the money given to the poor!!” Here’s the kicker, he said that, not because he cared about the poor, but because he cared about the money!
APPLICATION:
So often religious people have “pious responses.” We hide our hidden motives. We give our ‘reasons’ while harboring resentful thoughts. What about my answers and excuses? How honest and straightforward am I? You see, I don’t think Judas’ biggest problem was his conflicted heart, but rather him trying to hide it. Personally, I’ve been turned off by church people who say the right thing, while thinking and plotting the wrong thing. I never want to be like Judas who tried to “look good”, while only thinking of himself. God would rather have me expose my struggling heart, than ‘fake it’ in order to look spiritual.
PRAYER:
Father, I want to be fully honest with you and others. Forgive me when I’ve tried to cover my mixed motives. Help me to admit my sin and allow you to change my heart. AMEN.
“Pious Reponses”
SCRIPTURE: John 12: 4-6
[4] But one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, who was later to betray him, objected, [5] “Why wasn't this perfume sold and the money given to the poor? It was worth a year's wages. * ” [6] He did not say this because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief; as keeper of the money bag, he used to help himself to what was put into it.
OBSERVATION:
Every Gospel has an account of a woman anointing Jesus. What amazing, is that they don’t all appear to be the same incidents. Jesus is “anointed for burial” by women who deeply cared for Him and wanted to serve Him. So as Jesus sat at a home in Bethany, Mary came and poured a costly bottle of perfume on his feet. The text says, the “house was filled with the fragrance.” This reminds me that whenever we do something for Jesus, the fragrance of service fills the air!!
This morning, what stood out to me was Judas’ reaction. Rather than supporting Mary’s act of submission, he objected and gave what I call a ‘pious response’ – “Why this waste? The perfume might have been sold and the money given to the poor!!” Here’s the kicker, he said that, not because he cared about the poor, but because he cared about the money!
APPLICATION:
So often religious people have “pious responses.” We hide our hidden motives. We give our ‘reasons’ while harboring resentful thoughts. What about my answers and excuses? How honest and straightforward am I? You see, I don’t think Judas’ biggest problem was his conflicted heart, but rather him trying to hide it. Personally, I’ve been turned off by church people who say the right thing, while thinking and plotting the wrong thing. I never want to be like Judas who tried to “look good”, while only thinking of himself. God would rather have me expose my struggling heart, than ‘fake it’ in order to look spiritual.
PRAYER:
Father, I want to be fully honest with you and others. Forgive me when I’ve tried to cover my mixed motives. Help me to admit my sin and allow you to change my heart. AMEN.
Tuesday, August 5, 2008 by Bob
TITLE: "Turning Completely to God"
SCRIPTURE: 2 Kings 23:24-25
Neither before nor after Josiah was there a king like him who turned to the LORD as he did — with all his heart and with all his soul and with all his strength, in accordance with all the Law of Moses.
OBSERVATION: King Josiah was an unusual king during this period of Judah’s history. Most of the kings before him and after him, including his own sons were corrupt and sinful. But Josiah stood out like a diamond in the rough. During his short reign, Josiah removed all of the shrines and idols from the high places and burned them into powder. The bible said of Josiah that he turned to the LORD with all his heart, soul, and strength.
APPLICATION: The culture we live in today is similar in many respects to the promiscuous life-style of Judah during the days of King Josiah. In Central Oregon, where eight out of ten people are unchurched, those who turn to the LORD with all their heart, soul, and strength are rare and don’t ‘fit in.’ Periodically, we need a self-examination, to see what our idols are, those things that take us away from loving and worshiping the only true God. It might be your career, sport, hobby, or other obsession. Is there anything in your life that is keeping you from turning completely to God? What do you need to do to correct it?
PRAYER: Almighty Father, help me to clearly see the distractions and obsessions in my life that get in the way between you and I. Help me to shape my life in a way to bring you into the center of my day, every day. Grace my life with the fortitude to turn to you completely, with all my heart, soul, and strength.
SCRIPTURE: 2 Kings 23:24-25
Neither before nor after Josiah was there a king like him who turned to the LORD as he did — with all his heart and with all his soul and with all his strength, in accordance with all the Law of Moses.
OBSERVATION: King Josiah was an unusual king during this period of Judah’s history. Most of the kings before him and after him, including his own sons were corrupt and sinful. But Josiah stood out like a diamond in the rough. During his short reign, Josiah removed all of the shrines and idols from the high places and burned them into powder. The bible said of Josiah that he turned to the LORD with all his heart, soul, and strength.
APPLICATION: The culture we live in today is similar in many respects to the promiscuous life-style of Judah during the days of King Josiah. In Central Oregon, where eight out of ten people are unchurched, those who turn to the LORD with all their heart, soul, and strength are rare and don’t ‘fit in.’ Periodically, we need a self-examination, to see what our idols are, those things that take us away from loving and worshiping the only true God. It might be your career, sport, hobby, or other obsession. Is there anything in your life that is keeping you from turning completely to God? What do you need to do to correct it?
PRAYER: Almighty Father, help me to clearly see the distractions and obsessions in my life that get in the way between you and I. Help me to shape my life in a way to bring you into the center of my day, every day. Grace my life with the fortitude to turn to you completely, with all my heart, soul, and strength.
Monday, August 4th, 2008 by Randy
TITLE:
“A Responsive Heart”
SCRIPTURE:
Because your heart was responsive and you humbled yourself before God when you heard what he spoke against this place and its people, and because you humbled yourself before me and tore your robes and wept in my presence, I have heard you, declares the LORD. 2 Chronicles 34:27 (NIV)
OBSERVATION:
At the age of 16, Josiah, the king of Judah, “began to seek God” (2 Chron 34:3). Even though he was just a teenager, he showed more godly leadership than most of his predecessors. His example reminds me that we should never let “age” hinder what God wants to do.
Yet the real turning point came when Hilkiah found the Book of the Law and gave it to Josiah. Josiah had been seeking God, but not with clear understanding. Many scholars believe this book they found may have been the book of Deuteronomy. In the past, God’s law had been discarded and ignored by the evil kings, but now God’s commands were made clear. How did Josiah respond? The Bible says that he his “heart was responsive” and he humbled himself before God. His heart change led to life change! He obeyed God’s word and tore down the false idols and reestablished God’s law.
APPLICATION:
Our hearts can “respond” to many things around us. God wants us to respond to Him! Just like Josiah, I need to have a responsive heart to the things of God. I need to be more committed to learning from God’s word and doing his will then every before. My notes make this important application…“reading God's Word is not enough; we must be willing to do what it says.” The Bible may not be “lost” in our day and age, but it might as well be, if I fail to read it and do what it says.
PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, I want to know and do your will. May my heart to be responsive to you! AMEN.
“A Responsive Heart”
SCRIPTURE:
Because your heart was responsive and you humbled yourself before God when you heard what he spoke against this place and its people, and because you humbled yourself before me and tore your robes and wept in my presence, I have heard you, declares the LORD. 2 Chronicles 34:27 (NIV)
OBSERVATION:
At the age of 16, Josiah, the king of Judah, “began to seek God” (2 Chron 34:3). Even though he was just a teenager, he showed more godly leadership than most of his predecessors. His example reminds me that we should never let “age” hinder what God wants to do.
Yet the real turning point came when Hilkiah found the Book of the Law and gave it to Josiah. Josiah had been seeking God, but not with clear understanding. Many scholars believe this book they found may have been the book of Deuteronomy. In the past, God’s law had been discarded and ignored by the evil kings, but now God’s commands were made clear. How did Josiah respond? The Bible says that he his “heart was responsive” and he humbled himself before God. His heart change led to life change! He obeyed God’s word and tore down the false idols and reestablished God’s law.
APPLICATION:
Our hearts can “respond” to many things around us. God wants us to respond to Him! Just like Josiah, I need to have a responsive heart to the things of God. I need to be more committed to learning from God’s word and doing his will then every before. My notes make this important application…“reading God's Word is not enough; we must be willing to do what it says.” The Bible may not be “lost” in our day and age, but it might as well be, if I fail to read it and do what it says.
PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, I want to know and do your will. May my heart to be responsive to you! AMEN.
Thursday July 31, 2008 by Keith
Scripture:
Isaiah 64 3 For when you did awesome things that we did not expect, you came down, and the mountains trembled before you.
Observation:
Isaiah regularly speaks of the power of God - the LORD - Yaweh.
He reminds us that God is the Judge, Ruler, and Supreme Authority over all the earth. Who can escape Mighty God?
Application:
Then he notes in Isaiah 64:3, “when you did awesome things that we did not expect…”
That’s the testimony of who God is. He is far greater than our understanding, He can do far more than our plans can prepare, and certainly can do more than our greatest dreams.
When I think of my life, I think of New Hope Church… I want the Lord God to do awesome things that I don’t expect.
What will it take?
It says, “the Lord came down.” This is the answer to what lies ahead.
Prayer:
Holy Spirit, would you come down like a fire on your Church. Would you surprise us by the awesome things only you can do? Prepare us Lord for what is ahead. May we, may I, put my whole trust in YOU. Come down, do awesome things, for your Kingdom, and for your glory. so be it and amen.
Isaiah 64 3 For when you did awesome things that we did not expect, you came down, and the mountains trembled before you.
Observation:
Isaiah regularly speaks of the power of God - the LORD - Yaweh.
He reminds us that God is the Judge, Ruler, and Supreme Authority over all the earth. Who can escape Mighty God?
Application:
Then he notes in Isaiah 64:3, “when you did awesome things that we did not expect…”
That’s the testimony of who God is. He is far greater than our understanding, He can do far more than our plans can prepare, and certainly can do more than our greatest dreams.
When I think of my life, I think of New Hope Church… I want the Lord God to do awesome things that I don’t expect.
What will it take?
It says, “the Lord came down.” This is the answer to what lies ahead.
Prayer:
Holy Spirit, would you come down like a fire on your Church. Would you surprise us by the awesome things only you can do? Prepare us Lord for what is ahead. May we, may I, put my whole trust in YOU. Come down, do awesome things, for your Kingdom, and for your glory. so be it and amen.
Tuesday, July 29 2008 by Bob
TITLE: Fruitful Compassion
SCRIPTURE: Isaiah 58:4
Your fasting ends in quarreling and strife, and in striking each other with wicked fists. You cannot fast as you do today and expect your voice to be heard on high.
OBSERVATION: Through the prophet Isaiah, God admonished the Israelites to rid themselves of their pretentious sacrifices and fasts which have no quality of love or adoration toward their LORD. He saw beyond the outward appearances of men, deep into their hearts where there existed quarreling and greed toward their fellow brothers and sisters. Isaiah further admonished the people by assuring them that they could not expect their God to hear their cries of help because their devotion to him was insincere. God desired hearts of compassion, love and action toward those in need, not just ‘lip service’, and occasional periods of superficial sacrifice.
APPLICATION: Across our nation more then 90% of our citizens believe that there is a God, but like the Israelites in the days of Isaiah, many in our country lack the righteous lifestyle that God really seeks from us. What is the condition of your heart? Does your life bear the fruit of compassion and care toward those in need? Do you give of your time and resources toward others in your community? How would God judge the sincerity of your walk with him?
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, forgive those times when my selfish needs takes a front seat to others in my life that are in need. Impart in me a heart of love that stems from you. Provide me a fruitful compassion to help others in my family, workplace, and community.
SCRIPTURE: Isaiah 58:4
Your fasting ends in quarreling and strife, and in striking each other with wicked fists. You cannot fast as you do today and expect your voice to be heard on high.
OBSERVATION: Through the prophet Isaiah, God admonished the Israelites to rid themselves of their pretentious sacrifices and fasts which have no quality of love or adoration toward their LORD. He saw beyond the outward appearances of men, deep into their hearts where there existed quarreling and greed toward their fellow brothers and sisters. Isaiah further admonished the people by assuring them that they could not expect their God to hear their cries of help because their devotion to him was insincere. God desired hearts of compassion, love and action toward those in need, not just ‘lip service’, and occasional periods of superficial sacrifice.
APPLICATION: Across our nation more then 90% of our citizens believe that there is a God, but like the Israelites in the days of Isaiah, many in our country lack the righteous lifestyle that God really seeks from us. What is the condition of your heart? Does your life bear the fruit of compassion and care toward those in need? Do you give of your time and resources toward others in your community? How would God judge the sincerity of your walk with him?
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, forgive those times when my selfish needs takes a front seat to others in my life that are in need. Impart in me a heart of love that stems from you. Provide me a fruitful compassion to help others in my family, workplace, and community.
Monday, July 28th, 2008 by Randy
TITLE:
“The Way of Balaam”
SCRIPTURE:
“They have left the straight way and wandered off to follow the way of Balaam son of Beor, who loved the wages of wickedness.” 2 Peter 2:15 (NIV)
OBSERVATION:
Peter uses the example of Balaam to show how religious leaders can use their position for personal gain. He writes that these people start out on the “straight way,” but they “wander off” to follow the way of Balaam. What is this “way of Balaam?”
Balaam was a sorcerer, hired by the pagan king, Balak, to curse Israel. At first, it looked like Balaam was an honest, God-fearing man. In fact, as you read his story, you’ll discover that he blessed Israel, rather than cursed them ( Nu 22-24 ). However, underneath his good nature and kind deeds were wrong motives. Peter says that he “loved the wages of wickedness.” The word "love" here is one of the few places in the New Testament where the word “agape” is used in negative way. Balaam "agaped" the wrong things. Frankly, he was more in love with his money than God's ministry. Utimately, he put himself first and it cost him his life (see Numbers 25:1-3; 31:16).
APPLICATION:
Motives are funny things! They are so easily skewed and masked by our desires to be right and to "look" right. Most people think their motives are pure. It’s our human default. The Bible says that only GOd really knows our hearts. What about my heart? What are my motives in ministry? I’d like to say that everything I do is for God. However, there are times where I know that I’m selfish. I’m more worried about my hurts and my rights. God wants me to let go of any gain for myself and give my life completely to him. My life verse is “For to me is Christ and to die is gain” Phil. 1:21. May that be true of me--to live only for Christ.
PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, forgive me when my motives are wrong. Purify my heart. May my desires never be for personal gain, but for You to receive all the glory and honor. May that be true, even today. AMEN.
“The Way of Balaam”
SCRIPTURE:
“They have left the straight way and wandered off to follow the way of Balaam son of Beor, who loved the wages of wickedness.” 2 Peter 2:15 (NIV)
OBSERVATION:
Peter uses the example of Balaam to show how religious leaders can use their position for personal gain. He writes that these people start out on the “straight way,” but they “wander off” to follow the way of Balaam. What is this “way of Balaam?”
Balaam was a sorcerer, hired by the pagan king, Balak, to curse Israel. At first, it looked like Balaam was an honest, God-fearing man. In fact, as you read his story, you’ll discover that he blessed Israel, rather than cursed them ( Nu 22-24 ). However, underneath his good nature and kind deeds were wrong motives. Peter says that he “loved the wages of wickedness.” The word "love" here is one of the few places in the New Testament where the word “agape” is used in negative way. Balaam "agaped" the wrong things. Frankly, he was more in love with his money than God's ministry. Utimately, he put himself first and it cost him his life (see Numbers 25:1-3; 31:16).
APPLICATION:
Motives are funny things! They are so easily skewed and masked by our desires to be right and to "look" right. Most people think their motives are pure. It’s our human default. The Bible says that only GOd really knows our hearts. What about my heart? What are my motives in ministry? I’d like to say that everything I do is for God. However, there are times where I know that I’m selfish. I’m more worried about my hurts and my rights. God wants me to let go of any gain for myself and give my life completely to him. My life verse is “For to me is Christ and to die is gain” Phil. 1:21. May that be true of me--to live only for Christ.
PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, forgive me when my motives are wrong. Purify my heart. May my desires never be for personal gain, but for You to receive all the glory and honor. May that be true, even today. AMEN.
Tuesday July 22, 2008 by Bob
TITLE: No Greater Joy!
SCRIPTURE: 1 Peter 1:8-9
Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls.
OBSERVATION: Peter was encouraging the many Christians peppered throughout Asia Minor of the importance of their faith in God. Like a wind that we cannot see yet experience its results as it causes the leaves of a tree to flutter and fall, so is our God. Though we cannot see God, Peter reminds his readers that our faith, love, and belief in him, carry us through the desert places of our life. Through our faith we are given an ‘inexpressible and glorious joy’, the joy of knowing that we will be in our Lord’s presence soon.
APPLICATION: Many Christians today want to experience that instant joy in their lives, that joy that comes from God. But it doesn’t occur randomly or without cause. As Christians we need to work out our faith, working on knowing our Lord and experiencing him in our lives. Only than can we grow to love and believe in him. Finally as we mature in our love and belief in God, we begin to experience that inexpressible joy; that realization that we are his children, to be in his presence forever.
PRAYER: Dear Lord, thank you for your gift of faith, which has become a stepping stone that I can use to come to know, love, and believe in you. Thank you for your inexpressible gift of everlasting life and the joy that accompanies that knowledge that I will be with you in your Kingdom for eternity.
SCRIPTURE: 1 Peter 1:8-9
Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls.
OBSERVATION: Peter was encouraging the many Christians peppered throughout Asia Minor of the importance of their faith in God. Like a wind that we cannot see yet experience its results as it causes the leaves of a tree to flutter and fall, so is our God. Though we cannot see God, Peter reminds his readers that our faith, love, and belief in him, carry us through the desert places of our life. Through our faith we are given an ‘inexpressible and glorious joy’, the joy of knowing that we will be in our Lord’s presence soon.
APPLICATION: Many Christians today want to experience that instant joy in their lives, that joy that comes from God. But it doesn’t occur randomly or without cause. As Christians we need to work out our faith, working on knowing our Lord and experiencing him in our lives. Only than can we grow to love and believe in him. Finally as we mature in our love and belief in God, we begin to experience that inexpressible joy; that realization that we are his children, to be in his presence forever.
PRAYER: Dear Lord, thank you for your gift of faith, which has become a stepping stone that I can use to come to know, love, and believe in you. Thank you for your inexpressible gift of everlasting life and the joy that accompanies that knowledge that I will be with you in your Kingdom for eternity.
Monday, July 21st , 2008 by Randy
TITLE:
“The REAL Battle”
SCRIPTURE:
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged because of the king of Assyria and the vast army with him, for there is a greater power with us than with him. With him is only the arm of flesh, but with us is the LORD our God to help us and to fight our battles.” And the people gained confidence from what Hezekiah the king of Judah said. 2 Chronicles 32:7,8
OBSERVATION:
The conflict between Hezekiah, the King of Judah and Sennacherib, King of Assyria depicts the cosmic battle that wages in the hearts of mankind. Assyria was a great empire by Hezekiah's time, controlling most of the Middle East. From a human point of view, Judah’s defeat was eminent. Yet Hezekiah had faith in God. He told his people to “Be strong and courageous…for there is a greater power with us…the LORD our God” (2 Chron. 32:7-8).
So Sennacherib invades Judah and blasphemes God’s power and protection. The enemy messengers taunt Hezekiah, “Who of all the gods of these nations that my fathers destroyed has been able to save his people from me? How then can your god deliver you from my hand?” (2 Chronicles 32:14). Hezekiah responds to their threatens by crying out to God in prayer. God delievered them from the hand of Assyrian, but sending angel to destroy the Assyian Army. The victory that day was from God, not from man. As the prophet Zechariah said, “’Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the LORD Almighty (Zechariah 4:6).
APPLICATION:
No matter what challenge I face, I need to remember that the “battle is the Lord’s” (1 Samuel 17:47). Paul wrote that our battle is not against flesh and blood. It is a spiritual matter (Ephesians 6:12). This is the real battle. Too often I look at things from my point of view, rather than God’s. My "enemy" is not any person or problem but the devil who would love to bring defeat in my life. It’s easy for me to worry about the outcomes and potential problems, forgetting that God is far greater. His will and his purposes will prevail. Like Hezekiah, I want to always trust God for His strength and protection. He is able to do far more than we can even imagine!
PRAYER:
Father, forgive me for not always trusting you. Thank you that you are a God who brings victory! Help me to depend on you more and remember that you are greater than any worry or challenge or problem I face. I love you and want to live my life fully following You. AMEN.
“The REAL Battle”
SCRIPTURE:
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged because of the king of Assyria and the vast army with him, for there is a greater power with us than with him. With him is only the arm of flesh, but with us is the LORD our God to help us and to fight our battles.” And the people gained confidence from what Hezekiah the king of Judah said. 2 Chronicles 32:7,8
OBSERVATION:
The conflict between Hezekiah, the King of Judah and Sennacherib, King of Assyria depicts the cosmic battle that wages in the hearts of mankind. Assyria was a great empire by Hezekiah's time, controlling most of the Middle East. From a human point of view, Judah’s defeat was eminent. Yet Hezekiah had faith in God. He told his people to “Be strong and courageous…for there is a greater power with us…the LORD our God” (2 Chron. 32:7-8).
So Sennacherib invades Judah and blasphemes God’s power and protection. The enemy messengers taunt Hezekiah, “Who of all the gods of these nations that my fathers destroyed has been able to save his people from me? How then can your god deliver you from my hand?” (2 Chronicles 32:14). Hezekiah responds to their threatens by crying out to God in prayer. God delievered them from the hand of Assyrian, but sending angel to destroy the Assyian Army. The victory that day was from God, not from man. As the prophet Zechariah said, “’Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the LORD Almighty (Zechariah 4:6).
APPLICATION:
No matter what challenge I face, I need to remember that the “battle is the Lord’s” (1 Samuel 17:47). Paul wrote that our battle is not against flesh and blood. It is a spiritual matter (Ephesians 6:12). This is the real battle. Too often I look at things from my point of view, rather than God’s. My "enemy" is not any person or problem but the devil who would love to bring defeat in my life. It’s easy for me to worry about the outcomes and potential problems, forgetting that God is far greater. His will and his purposes will prevail. Like Hezekiah, I want to always trust God for His strength and protection. He is able to do far more than we can even imagine!
PRAYER:
Father, forgive me for not always trusting you. Thank you that you are a God who brings victory! Help me to depend on you more and remember that you are greater than any worry or challenge or problem I face. I love you and want to live my life fully following You. AMEN.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008 by Bob
TITLE: Justice Will be Served
SCRIPTURE: Isaiah 24:21, In that day the LORD will punish the powers in the heavens above and the kings on the earth below. NIV
OBSERVATION: The Oracles given by Isaiah to the people in his time must have appeared ominous and fearful. After countless years of rebellion against God by the Israelites and the surrounding nations, the prophet Isaiah was finally declaring the righteous wrath to be placed on these people. But Isaiah also prophesied about the end times, when the LORD would bring to justice all sinners, from the earth’s cities to the heavenly realms. These are the ‘Last Days’ spoken throughout the Old and New Testaments. In those days as proclaimed in Isaiah 24:23, “The LORD Almighty will reign on Mount Zion and in Jerusalem, and before its elders, gloriously.”
APPLICATION: I recently read about the abduction of hundreds of young children per week from countries all over the world, including our own, for the unspeakable and sinful sex trade market. In countries like Rwanda and Sudan, countless tens of thousands of men and women are being injured and massacred in the name of ethnic cleaning. Drug lords throughout the world are making millions of dollars a year from the chemical addictions of thousands who are wasting their lives and dying prematurely.
In the midst of all this evil in our world it is important to keep in mind that although our Lord is a God of love and compassion, he also is just and will punish those who have embraced evil. One day our King, our LORD almighty, will reign on heaven and earth, and their will be no destruction, no sin, no evil.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, in the midst of the sin and evil around me, help me not to lose hope of your glorious return and restoration of this planet into the paradise that you have always desired it to be. I Joyfully wait for your return and your glorious reign.
SCRIPTURE: Isaiah 24:21, In that day the LORD will punish the powers in the heavens above and the kings on the earth below. NIV
OBSERVATION: The Oracles given by Isaiah to the people in his time must have appeared ominous and fearful. After countless years of rebellion against God by the Israelites and the surrounding nations, the prophet Isaiah was finally declaring the righteous wrath to be placed on these people. But Isaiah also prophesied about the end times, when the LORD would bring to justice all sinners, from the earth’s cities to the heavenly realms. These are the ‘Last Days’ spoken throughout the Old and New Testaments. In those days as proclaimed in Isaiah 24:23, “The LORD Almighty will reign on Mount Zion and in Jerusalem, and before its elders, gloriously.”
APPLICATION: I recently read about the abduction of hundreds of young children per week from countries all over the world, including our own, for the unspeakable and sinful sex trade market. In countries like Rwanda and Sudan, countless tens of thousands of men and women are being injured and massacred in the name of ethnic cleaning. Drug lords throughout the world are making millions of dollars a year from the chemical addictions of thousands who are wasting their lives and dying prematurely.
In the midst of all this evil in our world it is important to keep in mind that although our Lord is a God of love and compassion, he also is just and will punish those who have embraced evil. One day our King, our LORD almighty, will reign on heaven and earth, and their will be no destruction, no sin, no evil.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, in the midst of the sin and evil around me, help me not to lose hope of your glorious return and restoration of this planet into the paradise that you have always desired it to be. I Joyfully wait for your return and your glorious reign.
Monday, July 14th , 2008 by Randy
Title
"Trust and Obey"
Scripture
At that time the LORD spoke through Isaiah son of Amoz. He said to him, “Take off the sackcloth from your body and the sandals from your feet.” And he did so, going around stripped and barefoot. Isaiah 20:2 (NIV)
Observation
God asked Isaiah to do something very strange! To walk around naked! My notes point out this was to graphically demonstrate Judah's ultimate fate if they chose to join the Ashdod revolt. They too would be stripped naked and taken away as slaves. In the ancient world, it was not unusual for criminals to be stripped and made to walk around naked as a sign of their loss of social status and shame. What amazes me is how willing the prophet was to obey God, even if it meant personal embarrassment.
Application
Isaiah's faith reminds me of a song we often sang growing up called "Trust and Obey." One verse went like this: "Not a burden we bear, not a sorrow we share, But our toil He doth richly repay; Not a grief or a loss, not a frown or a cross,But is blessed if we trust and obey." Trust and obey! The Christian life is that simply and it's that hard! I hope God will never ask me to do something as humiliating as he did Isaiah, but I must never put my reputation or personal concerns above obeying Him. I may not understand everything, but I want to completely follow Him.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, please increase my faith! Help me trust you more in every situation. I want to be used by you. Please fill me, cleanse me, mold me, use me. I want to trust and obey you completely! AMEN
"Trust and Obey"
Scripture
At that time the LORD spoke through Isaiah son of Amoz. He said to him, “Take off the sackcloth from your body and the sandals from your feet.” And he did so, going around stripped and barefoot. Isaiah 20:2 (NIV)
Observation
God asked Isaiah to do something very strange! To walk around naked! My notes point out this was to graphically demonstrate Judah's ultimate fate if they chose to join the Ashdod revolt. They too would be stripped naked and taken away as slaves. In the ancient world, it was not unusual for criminals to be stripped and made to walk around naked as a sign of their loss of social status and shame. What amazes me is how willing the prophet was to obey God, even if it meant personal embarrassment.
Application
Isaiah's faith reminds me of a song we often sang growing up called "Trust and Obey." One verse went like this: "Not a burden we bear, not a sorrow we share, But our toil He doth richly repay; Not a grief or a loss, not a frown or a cross,But is blessed if we trust and obey." Trust and obey! The Christian life is that simply and it's that hard! I hope God will never ask me to do something as humiliating as he did Isaiah, but I must never put my reputation or personal concerns above obeying Him. I may not understand everything, but I want to completely follow Him.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, please increase my faith! Help me trust you more in every situation. I want to be used by you. Please fill me, cleanse me, mold me, use me. I want to trust and obey you completely! AMEN
Friday, July 11, by Nancy
Scripture:
Because when all is said and done,
the last word is Immanuel—God-With-Us.
Isaiah 8:10b (MSG)
Observation:
In the midst of Isaiah's prophecy of coming hardship followed by a redeemer is this little nugget of simplicity and truth. Truly, the last word is "Immanuel." The miracle of God-with-us is the answer to each question, the solution to every problem, the hope for every failure. The presence of the Creator of the Universe, the sacrificial accommodation for our sin, the personification of mercy and grace that is Jesus are all we need to know!
Application:
How troubling to realize how accustomed I am to God's grace. I am so confident of His mercy that I often fail to consider where I would be without it. "There but for the grace of God..." is the most remarkable truth I can utter and yet it is a cliche, devoid of true meaning. The real truth is that God sent His son, sacrificially, not to be king, not to condemn, not to mete out punishment or retribution but to offer grace.
As one who claims to be a follower of Christ the last word must truly be "Immanuel." It must characterize my life--if God is truly with me, how will I act? Does my every-day-walking-around-life show my belief that God is with me? What do my habits look like to others? If God is truly with me, how will I speak? Are my words filled with truth? with graciousness? with compassion? What about my attitude? Does it demonstrate God-with-me? Do I exhibit patience and self-control? If God is truly with me, how will I think? Are my thoughts influenced by my confidence that God is with me?
It's easy to get caught up in the wrong culture--to embrace our Western/American ideals and values instead of those of the Christ-follower. I don't know into which camp he falls, but Tim Russert's dad, Big Russ, is credited with saying, "Blessed but not entitled." I love the truth of that and the reminder in it. God-with-us. Can you imagine? What blessing can possibly be greater? So how can I walk around acting as though I deserve things or consideration or whatever? I have Immanuel in my life. I am blessed beyond measure and that is the last word.
Prayer:
I can't imagine, Lord, the grace it takes to offer your Son. I cannot fathom what it is to give your people Immanuel and then watch us making such fools of ourselves as though we have somehow done it on our own. And I am one of the fools. Forgive me. I know I've done nothing to earn or deserve your astonishing grace.
It is my desire to live in such a way that others see You in me, to be so filled up with Jesus that His Spirit leaks from me. Be honored in my life. Be glorified in my actions, be lifted up in my words, be magnified in my thoughts. I am blessed beyond imagining but not entitled.
May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O God.
Amen
Because when all is said and done,
the last word is Immanuel—God-With-Us.
Isaiah 8:10b (MSG)
Observation:
In the midst of Isaiah's prophecy of coming hardship followed by a redeemer is this little nugget of simplicity and truth. Truly, the last word is "Immanuel." The miracle of God-with-us is the answer to each question, the solution to every problem, the hope for every failure. The presence of the Creator of the Universe, the sacrificial accommodation for our sin, the personification of mercy and grace that is Jesus are all we need to know!
Application:
How troubling to realize how accustomed I am to God's grace. I am so confident of His mercy that I often fail to consider where I would be without it. "There but for the grace of God..." is the most remarkable truth I can utter and yet it is a cliche, devoid of true meaning. The real truth is that God sent His son, sacrificially, not to be king, not to condemn, not to mete out punishment or retribution but to offer grace.
As one who claims to be a follower of Christ the last word must truly be "Immanuel." It must characterize my life--if God is truly with me, how will I act? Does my every-day-walking-around-life show my belief that God is with me? What do my habits look like to others? If God is truly with me, how will I speak? Are my words filled with truth? with graciousness? with compassion? What about my attitude? Does it demonstrate God-with-me? Do I exhibit patience and self-control? If God is truly with me, how will I think? Are my thoughts influenced by my confidence that God is with me?
It's easy to get caught up in the wrong culture--to embrace our Western/American ideals and values instead of those of the Christ-follower. I don't know into which camp he falls, but Tim Russert's dad, Big Russ, is credited with saying, "Blessed but not entitled." I love the truth of that and the reminder in it. God-with-us. Can you imagine? What blessing can possibly be greater? So how can I walk around acting as though I deserve things or consideration or whatever? I have Immanuel in my life. I am blessed beyond measure and that is the last word.
Prayer:
I can't imagine, Lord, the grace it takes to offer your Son. I cannot fathom what it is to give your people Immanuel and then watch us making such fools of ourselves as though we have somehow done it on our own. And I am one of the fools. Forgive me. I know I've done nothing to earn or deserve your astonishing grace.
It is my desire to live in such a way that others see You in me, to be so filled up with Jesus that His Spirit leaks from me. Be honored in my life. Be glorified in my actions, be lifted up in my words, be magnified in my thoughts. I am blessed beyond imagining but not entitled.
May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O God.
Amen
Thursday July 10, 2008 by Keith
Title: How to live
Scripture:
Micah 6:7-8
7 Will the LORD be pleased with thousands of rams, with ten thousand rivers of oil? Shall I offer my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?
8 He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.
Observation:
I am familiar with verse 8 because of a song that easily repeats in my mind. However, when I read the verse in context it has a much more serious tone.
Micah the prophet is warning Israel about how they are living.
The conclusion is, it doesn’t matter what you give (verse 7), but it’s about who you are. God cares most about our character - one that reflects Him. God desires for us to walk with him, to act justly and love mercy.
If I live a double life, one of hypocrisy, it really doesn’t matter what I bring to God… because He has shown me what is good and what He requires.
God’s people knew what was right yet they often chose the wrong life style.
Application:
When I look at my life, am I acting justly, loving mercy, and walking humbly with my Lord God?
It sure sounds easy, in fact it makes a great line for a catchy song. But, there is a strong reality that what God requires is much different than man’s or my own perception.
There is no greater example of one that lived a life of justice, mercy, and humility; that is Jesus Christ.
By the power of the Holy Spirit, that is my desire today, to live in His power, with him, and for Him.
Prayer:
Lord, to you be the glory for the great things you have done. Help me to see areas of my life you are not please with and repent of those things. Help me follow you, that I might please you. In Christ, so be it and amen
Scripture:
Micah 6:7-8
7 Will the LORD be pleased with thousands of rams, with ten thousand rivers of oil? Shall I offer my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?
8 He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.
Observation:
I am familiar with verse 8 because of a song that easily repeats in my mind. However, when I read the verse in context it has a much more serious tone.
Micah the prophet is warning Israel about how they are living.
The conclusion is, it doesn’t matter what you give (verse 7), but it’s about who you are. God cares most about our character - one that reflects Him. God desires for us to walk with him, to act justly and love mercy.
If I live a double life, one of hypocrisy, it really doesn’t matter what I bring to God… because He has shown me what is good and what He requires.
God’s people knew what was right yet they often chose the wrong life style.
Application:
When I look at my life, am I acting justly, loving mercy, and walking humbly with my Lord God?
It sure sounds easy, in fact it makes a great line for a catchy song. But, there is a strong reality that what God requires is much different than man’s or my own perception.
There is no greater example of one that lived a life of justice, mercy, and humility; that is Jesus Christ.
By the power of the Holy Spirit, that is my desire today, to live in His power, with him, and for Him.
Prayer:
Lord, to you be the glory for the great things you have done. Help me to see areas of my life you are not please with and repent of those things. Help me follow you, that I might please you. In Christ, so be it and amen
Tuesday, July 8, 2008 by Bob
TITLE: Bridge of Love
SCRIPTURE: Hebrews 5:2, He is able to deal gently with those who are ignorant and are going astray, since he himself is subject to weakness. (NIV)
OBSERVATION: In Hebrews chapter 5, the author makes reference to the duties of the Israelite’s high priests. The author claims in verse 2 that high priests aren’t above reproach just because they have been chosen to administer sacrifices and gift offerings for the people. They too “are subject to weakness.” Yet when we read in the gospels about the attitude and behavior of the religious leaders and the high priest in the time of Christ, what we see is a holier than thou attitude in their dealings with the common people resulting from the sin of pride prevalent in their lives.
APPLICATION: This passage has great application for us today as well. In today’s culture many Christians often critically judge the behavior and beliefs of others in our community and our world with an attitude of superior virtue. It is so easy to use God’s Word as a weapon to pounce the conduct of others. Instead we need to be gentle in our response to those that are ignorant of the truth given to us through the grace of Christ. We need to remember that it is only through God’s mercy that we are not eternally condemned for our mistakes and failures.
PRAYER: Lord, forgive me in those times that I quickly judge the attitude and beliefs of others around me. Help me to control my critical opinions and instead to freely give your mercy and grace to others who differ from your truth. Help me to be a bridge of love from them to you.
SCRIPTURE: Hebrews 5:2, He is able to deal gently with those who are ignorant and are going astray, since he himself is subject to weakness. (NIV)
OBSERVATION: In Hebrews chapter 5, the author makes reference to the duties of the Israelite’s high priests. The author claims in verse 2 that high priests aren’t above reproach just because they have been chosen to administer sacrifices and gift offerings for the people. They too “are subject to weakness.” Yet when we read in the gospels about the attitude and behavior of the religious leaders and the high priest in the time of Christ, what we see is a holier than thou attitude in their dealings with the common people resulting from the sin of pride prevalent in their lives.
APPLICATION: This passage has great application for us today as well. In today’s culture many Christians often critically judge the behavior and beliefs of others in our community and our world with an attitude of superior virtue. It is so easy to use God’s Word as a weapon to pounce the conduct of others. Instead we need to be gentle in our response to those that are ignorant of the truth given to us through the grace of Christ. We need to remember that it is only through God’s mercy that we are not eternally condemned for our mistakes and failures.
PRAYER: Lord, forgive me in those times that I quickly judge the attitude and beliefs of others around me. Help me to control my critical opinions and instead to freely give your mercy and grace to others who differ from your truth. Help me to be a bridge of love from them to you.
Monday, July 7th, 2008 by Randy
TITLE:
“What God Wants!”
SCRIPTURE:
“For I desire mercy, not sacrifice, and acknowledgment of God rather than burnt offerings.” Hosea 6:6 (NIV)
OBSERVATION:
This is a repeated theme in the Bible. It was first spoken by Samuel in response to King Saul’s disobedience, “To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams” (1 Samuel 15:22). Jesus himself quotes the prophets pointing out the hypocrisy of his day (Matthew 9:13; 12:7). Here Hosea calls out this same indictment from God “For I desire mercy, not sacrifice, an acknowledgement of God rather than burnt offerings.” God never intended ceremonies to be an end in themselves. He established them to drawn his people to himself. Rituals are reminders. Even today, baptism and communion should never be a substitute for a true relationship with Christ.
While Israel “faithfully” sacrificed, they forget who they were sacrificing to. Their hearts were far from God as they fulfilled their duties of devotion. However, the Lord didn’t want the Israelites' rituals; he wanted them!!! This verse talks about two specific things God wants. First he “desires mercy.” The Hebrew word here is “Chesed” meaning “devotion or consistent love.” God wanted his people to have a love that lasted. Second, he wanted the “acknowledgement God.” This is more than mere mental assent. It refers to really knowing him. It could be translated “truth” –the truth of God. He wanted his people to relate to him, rather than to be religious about him.
APPLICATION:
What about my relationship with God? I grew up in the church. “Going through the motions” can be second nature. How often have I replaced “doing things” for God for a deeper walk with God? It is easy to get into a routine and allow my relationship with God to become a cliché. I don’t’ like it when I feel and act that way. I want to know God more. I desire to love him more every single day of my life. I want to fully follow him in all I do and say!
PRAYER:
Father, forgive me when I’ve allowed the rituals of routine to replace my love for You. You are God and there is no one like you. You are worthy of all my love and honor and praise. Please draw me closer to you, every single day. AMEN.
“What God Wants!”
SCRIPTURE:
“For I desire mercy, not sacrifice, and acknowledgment of God rather than burnt offerings.” Hosea 6:6 (NIV)
OBSERVATION:
This is a repeated theme in the Bible. It was first spoken by Samuel in response to King Saul’s disobedience, “To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams” (1 Samuel 15:22). Jesus himself quotes the prophets pointing out the hypocrisy of his day (Matthew 9:13; 12:7). Here Hosea calls out this same indictment from God “For I desire mercy, not sacrifice, an acknowledgement of God rather than burnt offerings.” God never intended ceremonies to be an end in themselves. He established them to drawn his people to himself. Rituals are reminders. Even today, baptism and communion should never be a substitute for a true relationship with Christ.
While Israel “faithfully” sacrificed, they forget who they were sacrificing to. Their hearts were far from God as they fulfilled their duties of devotion. However, the Lord didn’t want the Israelites' rituals; he wanted them!!! This verse talks about two specific things God wants. First he “desires mercy.” The Hebrew word here is “Chesed” meaning “devotion or consistent love.” God wanted his people to have a love that lasted. Second, he wanted the “acknowledgement God.” This is more than mere mental assent. It refers to really knowing him. It could be translated “truth” –the truth of God. He wanted his people to relate to him, rather than to be religious about him.
APPLICATION:
What about my relationship with God? I grew up in the church. “Going through the motions” can be second nature. How often have I replaced “doing things” for God for a deeper walk with God? It is easy to get into a routine and allow my relationship with God to become a cliché. I don’t’ like it when I feel and act that way. I want to know God more. I desire to love him more every single day of my life. I want to fully follow him in all I do and say!
PRAYER:
Father, forgive me when I’ve allowed the rituals of routine to replace my love for You. You are God and there is no one like you. You are worthy of all my love and honor and praise. Please draw me closer to you, every single day. AMEN.
Friday, July 4, 2008 by Nancy
Scripture:
2 Kings 15:12
That completed the word of God that was given to Jehu, namely, "For four generations your sons will sit on the throne of Israel." Zechariah was the fourth.
Observation:
In the midst of the deceit and treachery that has become habit among the Northern Kingdom, as Kings are killed by trusted confidantes or hated
enemies or even family members, God still has his way. Though it looks
to our eyes as though God is no where in the picture, even then what He
says comes to pass.
Application:
I am certain that neither Zechariah or Jeroboam or Shallum
set out to accomplish God's will and yet they were part of fulfilling
God's promise. He uses them without their knowledge, without their
understanding, almost in spite of themselves. God will have His way, it
is foolishness to think otherwise.
How much better to choose to serve? How much more fulfilling to offer up my life? How much sweeter to be used by God in partnership? How amazing!
Prayer:
God, Creator of all the Universe, Author of all that is, Unchanging,
Unfailing, Ever-Faithful, I worship you. I offer my life for Your
purposes. Use me, not in spite of myself, but whole-heartedly offered
up to You. Your generosity never fails to amaze me. Thank You for
taking my tiny little offering--my best--and in Your mercy and grace
multiplying it to be enough for You to use. Amen.
2 Kings 15:12
That completed the word of God that was given to Jehu, namely, "For four generations your sons will sit on the throne of Israel." Zechariah was the fourth.
Observation:
In the midst of the deceit and treachery that has become habit among the Northern Kingdom, as Kings are killed by trusted confidantes or hated
enemies or even family members, God still has his way. Though it looks
to our eyes as though God is no where in the picture, even then what He
says comes to pass.
Application:
I am certain that neither Zechariah or Jeroboam or Shallum
set out to accomplish God's will and yet they were part of fulfilling
God's promise. He uses them without their knowledge, without their
understanding, almost in spite of themselves. God will have His way, it
is foolishness to think otherwise.
How much better to choose to serve? How much more fulfilling to offer up my life? How much sweeter to be used by God in partnership? How amazing!
Prayer:
God, Creator of all the Universe, Author of all that is, Unchanging,
Unfailing, Ever-Faithful, I worship you. I offer my life for Your
purposes. Use me, not in spite of myself, but whole-heartedly offered
up to You. Your generosity never fails to amaze me. Thank You for
taking my tiny little offering--my best--and in Your mercy and grace
multiplying it to be enough for You to use. Amen.
Thursday July 3, 2008 by Keith
Title: FINISH WELL
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 27:6 Jotham grew powerful because he walked steadfastly before the LORD his God.
Observation:
There is something said about living a life of integrity. Jotham grew powerful, not because he was strong, wealthy, or smart, but because he walked steadfastly before the LORD his God.
His father Uzziah lived a similar life, however, he didn’t end well. There was a point where he may have thought his power came from himself rather than the Lord, or maybe he forget the great seriousness of God’s Holiness. Whatever it was King Uzziah went from powerful to pathetic overnight… for all of history Uzziah would be known as a king that died of leprosy.
It seems Jotham may have looked at his dad’s example and chose the high road. Maybe Jotham committed to never be like that… to remind himself that it is God that gives and takes away. Maybe he had men in his life like Isaiah to remind him of the LORD Almighty.
Application:
I am no king, nor was my dad a king…. But, I do have a choice in my life to live a life of integrity or to give way to my flesh and think that I have accomplished things on my own.
I can approach God in humility or in arrogance.
I can worship in fear and love or apathy and selfishness.
I want to be more like Jotham who walked steadfastly before the Lord. I would rather people remember my integrity than my leprosy.
Prayer:
Father, help me walk with you and for you. Thank you for your Word that reminds us of who you are. You give, you take away. You are God. amen and so be it.
Scripture:
2 Chronicles 27:6 Jotham grew powerful because he walked steadfastly before the LORD his God.
Observation:
There is something said about living a life of integrity. Jotham grew powerful, not because he was strong, wealthy, or smart, but because he walked steadfastly before the LORD his God.
His father Uzziah lived a similar life, however, he didn’t end well. There was a point where he may have thought his power came from himself rather than the Lord, or maybe he forget the great seriousness of God’s Holiness. Whatever it was King Uzziah went from powerful to pathetic overnight… for all of history Uzziah would be known as a king that died of leprosy.
It seems Jotham may have looked at his dad’s example and chose the high road. Maybe Jotham committed to never be like that… to remind himself that it is God that gives and takes away. Maybe he had men in his life like Isaiah to remind him of the LORD Almighty.
Application:
I am no king, nor was my dad a king…. But, I do have a choice in my life to live a life of integrity or to give way to my flesh and think that I have accomplished things on my own.
I can approach God in humility or in arrogance.
I can worship in fear and love or apathy and selfishness.
I want to be more like Jotham who walked steadfastly before the Lord. I would rather people remember my integrity than my leprosy.
Prayer:
Father, help me walk with you and for you. Thank you for your Word that reminds us of who you are. You give, you take away. You are God. amen and so be it.
Monday, June 30th, 2008 by Randy
TITLE:
“Being Plumb”
SCRIPTURE:
This is what he showed me: The Lord was standing by a wall that had been built true to plumb, with a plumb line in his hand. Amos 7:7 (NIV)
OBSERVATION:
Amos, the prophet, uses a number of analogies to expose Israel’s backslidden condition. In Amos 7:7,8 He pictures the Lord with a plumb line in his hand. Just for clarity, a "plumb line" is a string with a weight on the end. When you hold the string at the top, the weight makes the line hang down straight. Still today we refer to “being plumb" as something level or straight.
So in this vision God is standing with a plumb line by a wall. The plumb is true and level indicating that the wall is straight up and down. God is saying that He always uses an accurate standard to judge his people. He is fair and true. It is not “what seems right” to the person or public opinion. It is God’s truth. Absolute. Unchanging.
APPLICATION:
In a culture of relativity, God reveals his truth in His word. That’s why I need to daily read and learn from the Bible. God wants me to align myself with Him; not with the culture; Not with popular opinion, but with His will! Anything that is not “straight or level” in my life, He wants to correct. Just like a wall that’s out of plumb, my life is unstable without his perspective. How do I measure up to God’s plumb line? What is God wanting to realign in my life? In my relationships? In my priorities? I can’t rely on my own judgments. I must look to Him and His Word. The Psalmist wrote, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105). May that be true of my life too!
PRAYER:
Father, please take every area of my life and align it with Your will. I want to fully follow you! Forgive me when I’ve relied on my opinions rather than your standards. Help me to be in plumb with your word. AMEN.
“Being Plumb”
SCRIPTURE:
This is what he showed me: The Lord was standing by a wall that had been built true to plumb, with a plumb line in his hand. Amos 7:7 (NIV)
OBSERVATION:
Amos, the prophet, uses a number of analogies to expose Israel’s backslidden condition. In Amos 7:7,8 He pictures the Lord with a plumb line in his hand. Just for clarity, a "plumb line" is a string with a weight on the end. When you hold the string at the top, the weight makes the line hang down straight. Still today we refer to “being plumb" as something level or straight.
So in this vision God is standing with a plumb line by a wall. The plumb is true and level indicating that the wall is straight up and down. God is saying that He always uses an accurate standard to judge his people. He is fair and true. It is not “what seems right” to the person or public opinion. It is God’s truth. Absolute. Unchanging.
APPLICATION:
In a culture of relativity, God reveals his truth in His word. That’s why I need to daily read and learn from the Bible. God wants me to align myself with Him; not with the culture; Not with popular opinion, but with His will! Anything that is not “straight or level” in my life, He wants to correct. Just like a wall that’s out of plumb, my life is unstable without his perspective. How do I measure up to God’s plumb line? What is God wanting to realign in my life? In my relationships? In my priorities? I can’t rely on my own judgments. I must look to Him and His Word. The Psalmist wrote, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105). May that be true of my life too!
PRAYER:
Father, please take every area of my life and align it with Your will. I want to fully follow you! Forgive me when I’ve relied on my opinions rather than your standards. Help me to be in plumb with your word. AMEN.
Thursday June 26 by Pastor Ketih
Title: Working for the Boss Man
Scripture:
Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15
Observation:
I don’t know if this verse haunts me or encourages me. I can’t say that I “do my best” every day for God. There are some days I do… but, others, not so much.
Paul laid out several examples to Timothy about keeping his faith strong. He used a soldier, an athlete, and then in this passage a workman.
This workman is filled with integrity and has nothing to hide because he has handled his work (the word) correctly. The result: he is approved by the boss, God!
Application:
How am I doing handling God’s Word? Would I be ashamed if I was judged by my boss today?
Each day I get to remind myself that my God is watching, my God is involved, and He has entrusted me to do His will, particularly with God’s Word.
What a privilege and an honor to work for the King of Kings, Creator of All, the inventor of Love… wow.
Today, I will strive to live a life pleasing to Him.
Prayer:
Father, help me.
Scripture:
Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15
Observation:
I don’t know if this verse haunts me or encourages me. I can’t say that I “do my best” every day for God. There are some days I do… but, others, not so much.
Paul laid out several examples to Timothy about keeping his faith strong. He used a soldier, an athlete, and then in this passage a workman.
This workman is filled with integrity and has nothing to hide because he has handled his work (the word) correctly. The result: he is approved by the boss, God!
Application:
How am I doing handling God’s Word? Would I be ashamed if I was judged by my boss today?
Each day I get to remind myself that my God is watching, my God is involved, and He has entrusted me to do His will, particularly with God’s Word.
What a privilege and an honor to work for the King of Kings, Creator of All, the inventor of Love… wow.
Today, I will strive to live a life pleasing to Him.
Prayer:
Father, help me.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008 by Bob
TITLE: False Hope
SCRIPTURE: 1 Tim 6:9, People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction.
OBSERVATION: In his first letter to Timothy, Paul instructs him to teach and command his church members to beware of the temptation and potential destruction of seeking worldly wealth. Over the years of ministry Paul had witnessed many people, and some Christians who had succumbed to the lure and power of money only to find themselves in moral and emotional ruin as a result.
APPLICATION: Many Christians have used this verse to provide evidence that wealth is inherently evil and that we should stay away from it. But that was not Paul’s intent at all. It wasn’t the wealth in itself that is sinful, but the hope that we place on our wealth. In other words, if we are blessed with material or personal wealth, but don’t become arrogant or misguided about the importance of our wealth, then we can actually be fruitful in helping to build God’s kingdom with these assets. In the other hand, if we make our wealth the center of our hope and reliance, then greed will gradually erode our hearts and draw us away from the things of God.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, teach me to view and value your material blessings with the right attitude and heart. Never let ‘things’ take center-stage in my life, instead help me to keep focused on your kingdom, and to be more concerned about building an eternal treasure then a temporal treasure that will erode with time.
SCRIPTURE: 1 Tim 6:9, People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction.
OBSERVATION: In his first letter to Timothy, Paul instructs him to teach and command his church members to beware of the temptation and potential destruction of seeking worldly wealth. Over the years of ministry Paul had witnessed many people, and some Christians who had succumbed to the lure and power of money only to find themselves in moral and emotional ruin as a result.
APPLICATION: Many Christians have used this verse to provide evidence that wealth is inherently evil and that we should stay away from it. But that was not Paul’s intent at all. It wasn’t the wealth in itself that is sinful, but the hope that we place on our wealth. In other words, if we are blessed with material or personal wealth, but don’t become arrogant or misguided about the importance of our wealth, then we can actually be fruitful in helping to build God’s kingdom with these assets. In the other hand, if we make our wealth the center of our hope and reliance, then greed will gradually erode our hearts and draw us away from the things of God.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, teach me to view and value your material blessings with the right attitude and heart. Never let ‘things’ take center-stage in my life, instead help me to keep focused on your kingdom, and to be more concerned about building an eternal treasure then a temporal treasure that will erode with time.
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