A local business man opened a new office. His friend, wanting to share in his joy and enthusiasm, sent him a lovely floral arrangement.
Upon arriving at his office for the first time, he was greeted by a large wreath that read “Rest In Peace.”
Upset and angry, he rushed to the florist demanding to know who played such a mean trick on him. After admitting his mistake and apologizing profusely, the florist humbly said, “There is a man buried in the cemetery who has a wreath on his grave that reads ‘Good luck in your new location.’”
The Apostle Paul never needed “good luck” when he was in prison, on a ship, in a storm, being stoned or beaten. He said, “I have learned to be content wherever I am because this is exactly where God wants me.” He knew beyond the shadow of a doubt that he was where God wanted him to be and that God was with him.
True for Paul, true for us. God has a special place for us to be and a special work for us to do. And when we have finished what He wants us to do, we have the same assurance that Paul did: “When we die and leave these bodies – we will have worthwhile new homes made for us by God.”
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for the assurance of Your salvation and the hope of heaven. We are grateful that You will never leave us or forsake us no matter where we are or what is going on in our lives as long as we are faithful to You. In Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: 2 Corinthians 5:1-5
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
A Blind Woman's Wish
Before she was two years old, a serious illness destroyed the sight and hearing of Helen Keller. As a result of the illness, she was unable to learn to speak.
But she would not be defeated. She overcame her blindness and deafness by learning to read and write in Braille. Eventually, she even learned to talk.
One night during an interview she was asked, “If you could have one wish, what would it be?”
Hearing? Sight? Eloquence?
Without hesitation she answered, “World peace.”
Jesus said, “Blessed are the peace makers!” The blessing is not on the “peace lovers” or the “peace talkers.” Jesus is talking about the peace that comes from the Prince of Peace Who reigns in hearts and rules in lives. Once we are at peace with God, we will then work on having peace with ourselves and others. Gone will be the greed, envy, jealousy and strife that separate us from them. In their places will be God’s love for them.
When we are at peace with the Lord, we will want others to have His peace in their lives and become real “peacemakers” as we lead others to Him.
Prayer: Father, we hear much about peace and calls for peace. But we, who know You, know that there can be no peace until the Prince of Peace dwells in hearts and dominates in lives. May we who know Your peace share it with others. In Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Matthew 5:9
But she would not be defeated. She overcame her blindness and deafness by learning to read and write in Braille. Eventually, she even learned to talk.
One night during an interview she was asked, “If you could have one wish, what would it be?”
Hearing? Sight? Eloquence?
Without hesitation she answered, “World peace.”
Jesus said, “Blessed are the peace makers!” The blessing is not on the “peace lovers” or the “peace talkers.” Jesus is talking about the peace that comes from the Prince of Peace Who reigns in hearts and rules in lives. Once we are at peace with God, we will then work on having peace with ourselves and others. Gone will be the greed, envy, jealousy and strife that separate us from them. In their places will be God’s love for them.
When we are at peace with the Lord, we will want others to have His peace in their lives and become real “peacemakers” as we lead others to Him.
Prayer: Father, we hear much about peace and calls for peace. But we, who know You, know that there can be no peace until the Prince of Peace dwells in hearts and dominates in lives. May we who know Your peace share it with others. In Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Matthew 5:9
Thursday, June 24, 2010
"This I Know" People
There were many years when China would not allow missionaries into the country to witness the Gospel to the lost. Even believers from foreign countries were not allowed in to teach or preach the Word of God. Those who had been there worried about the converts that they left behind because they knew that Christians were being persecuted. The Chinese Christians had to be careful about sending out messages about their well-being.
Finally, one believer wrote a letter and included the words: “This I know people are well.” That puzzled the Chinese leaders. They could not understand what it meant. But it pleased the ones who received the letter because they knew what it meant. It came from the song, “Jesus loves me this I know, for the Bible tells me so.”
What a gracious thought: “This I know people” are well. We will never be without sadness and sorrow, problems and pains, trials and troubles, sickness and suffering. God will give us His grace to grow, His strength to survive, His peace to prevail and His power to persevere.
We have His promise that His people will be well!
Prayer: Father, when things are troubling and threatening, when we face trials and temptations, conflict and confusion, worries and weaknesses, may we feel Your presence and power. May our trust in You enable us to triumph. In Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Matthew 28:20
Finally, one believer wrote a letter and included the words: “This I know people are well.” That puzzled the Chinese leaders. They could not understand what it meant. But it pleased the ones who received the letter because they knew what it meant. It came from the song, “Jesus loves me this I know, for the Bible tells me so.”
What a gracious thought: “This I know people” are well. We will never be without sadness and sorrow, problems and pains, trials and troubles, sickness and suffering. God will give us His grace to grow, His strength to survive, His peace to prevail and His power to persevere.
We have His promise that His people will be well!
Prayer: Father, when things are troubling and threatening, when we face trials and temptations, conflict and confusion, worries and weaknesses, may we feel Your presence and power. May our trust in You enable us to triumph. In Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Matthew 28:20
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
First Prize
His small son returned from kindergarten, ran to his arms and said, “Daddy, I won a prize today!”
“That’s wonderful,” said the dad. “What was the prize for?”
“We had to guess how many legs an elephant has,” said the boy, “and I said five!”
“Five?” exclaimed the father.
“Yeah,” was the response. “I came the closest. Someone else said six.”
There are some who believe that salvation is a result of how close they come to obeying the Ten Commandments. Others think that if they work hard at fulfilling the teaching of the Beatitudes they will earn their salvation. Many believe that they will inherit eternal life as a result of doing good deeds. There are those who trust in church membership to save them. Some are hoping that they will find themselves in heaven because of their family tree.
Unfortunately, none of those will result in the new birth – God’s salvation.
Scripture informs us that “God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son that whoever believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.”
Salvation comes only by trusting in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. It is as the Apostle Paul said, “God saved you by His special favor, His grace, when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this since it is a gift from God.”
Prayer: Father, we confess that we have sinned and need to be saved if we want eternal life. Only in You is forgiveness and salvation. We ask You to become our Savior and free us from the grip of sin. Through Christ. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Romans 3:23
“That’s wonderful,” said the dad. “What was the prize for?”
“We had to guess how many legs an elephant has,” said the boy, “and I said five!”
“Five?” exclaimed the father.
“Yeah,” was the response. “I came the closest. Someone else said six.”
There are some who believe that salvation is a result of how close they come to obeying the Ten Commandments. Others think that if they work hard at fulfilling the teaching of the Beatitudes they will earn their salvation. Many believe that they will inherit eternal life as a result of doing good deeds. There are those who trust in church membership to save them. Some are hoping that they will find themselves in heaven because of their family tree.
Unfortunately, none of those will result in the new birth – God’s salvation.
Scripture informs us that “God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son that whoever believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.”
Salvation comes only by trusting in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. It is as the Apostle Paul said, “God saved you by His special favor, His grace, when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this since it is a gift from God.”
Prayer: Father, we confess that we have sinned and need to be saved if we want eternal life. Only in You is forgiveness and salvation. We ask You to become our Savior and free us from the grip of sin. Through Christ. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Romans 3:23
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Are You Married Now?
A little boy asked his Dad, “What did you and Mom say to each other when you got married?”
“I promise to love you every day of my life as long as I live,” he replied.
“Dad,” he questioned, “you’re not married to Mom now, are you?”
The Bible says, “Husbands, love your wives!”
When a man accepts the responsibility of being married, there is no time limit placed on the depth or length of his love. There are no escape clauses for tough times or difficult days. There are no “gold stars” given for going a week without becoming irritable or raising one’s voice. There is no certificate given when husbands do not complain when dinner is late or the kitchen is messy, the bed unmade or the clothes not folded.
The love of a husband for his wife is to be continuous – even when interrupted by things that are little or large.
The love of a husband for his wife is to be consuming – never selfish, but always sacrificial.
The love of a husband for his wife is to be comforting – always available in tough or troubled times.
Prayer: Help me, Father, to be a helpful husband, a pleasant partner, a faithful friend and a gracious giver. May I be as loving to my wife as You are to me, as thoughtful about her needs as You are to mine and as patient to her as You are to me. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Ephesians 5:21-33
“I promise to love you every day of my life as long as I live,” he replied.
“Dad,” he questioned, “you’re not married to Mom now, are you?”
The Bible says, “Husbands, love your wives!”
When a man accepts the responsibility of being married, there is no time limit placed on the depth or length of his love. There are no escape clauses for tough times or difficult days. There are no “gold stars” given for going a week without becoming irritable or raising one’s voice. There is no certificate given when husbands do not complain when dinner is late or the kitchen is messy, the bed unmade or the clothes not folded.
The love of a husband for his wife is to be continuous – even when interrupted by things that are little or large.
The love of a husband for his wife is to be consuming – never selfish, but always sacrificial.
The love of a husband for his wife is to be comforting – always available in tough or troubled times.
Prayer: Help me, Father, to be a helpful husband, a pleasant partner, a faithful friend and a gracious giver. May I be as loving to my wife as You are to me, as thoughtful about her needs as You are to mine and as patient to her as You are to me. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Ephesians 5:21-33
Monday, June 21, 2010
I'm Their Leader!
A teenager in a scout uniform came running down a country road. Seeing a farmer in a field, he shouted, “Have you seen a troop of scouts go by?”
“Yes,” answered the farmer, “about twenty minutes ago. Why do you ask?”
Starting to run he cried, “I’m supposed to be their leader.”
God has called each of us to be leaders in His Kingdom. We can teach a Sunday school class or help in a youth group. We can lead a study group or a senior tour. We can prepare food or clean the tables at a church dinner. We can sing in the choir or be an usher. We can provide clothes for those who are cold and shelter for those who are homeless. There are many things we can do for God if we do not get separated from God and others who love Him and are serving Him.
There is always the danger of being overwhelmed by worldly things and realize one day that we have been left behind in our walk with Christ. If we focus on fame or fortune, position or power, status or success, we will never be the leader God wants us to be.
The Apostle Paul said, “Yet, if I live, that means fruitful service for Christ.”
Prayer: Lord, I want to lead others to know You and to love You. But I cannot do this if I separate myself from Your Word and others who love You. Help me to follow You closely that I may always lead others to You. In Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Philippians 1:22
“Yes,” answered the farmer, “about twenty minutes ago. Why do you ask?”
Starting to run he cried, “I’m supposed to be their leader.”
God has called each of us to be leaders in His Kingdom. We can teach a Sunday school class or help in a youth group. We can lead a study group or a senior tour. We can prepare food or clean the tables at a church dinner. We can sing in the choir or be an usher. We can provide clothes for those who are cold and shelter for those who are homeless. There are many things we can do for God if we do not get separated from God and others who love Him and are serving Him.
There is always the danger of being overwhelmed by worldly things and realize one day that we have been left behind in our walk with Christ. If we focus on fame or fortune, position or power, status or success, we will never be the leader God wants us to be.
The Apostle Paul said, “Yet, if I live, that means fruitful service for Christ.”
Prayer: Lord, I want to lead others to know You and to love You. But I cannot do this if I separate myself from Your Word and others who love You. Help me to follow You closely that I may always lead others to You. In Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Philippians 1:22
Thursday, June 17, 2010
What's In Your Name?
“What’s in a name?” asked Romeo in one of Shakespeare’s plays. He then answered his own question by saying, “A rose by any other name would be as sweet!”
But there is something interesting in a name.
A name sets people, places or things apart. A name designates or describes, it represents or restricts, it gives an identity to or information about people, places or things. When someone calls us by our name, we respond, wondering what they may want. When people speak of us, they have some ideas about us in their mind – perhaps an image that represents us to them.
There is a man in the New Testament who was given the name, “Joseph.” That name means “one more” or “he will add” or “may he add.” To his family he was “one more.” But the disciples saw that “he will add” to what they were doing.
And what did he add? Encouragement! So, they changed his name to “Barnabas,” which means “Son of Encouragement.” He encouraged everyone.
When people think of us, what comes to their mind? What does our name represent to others?
Prayer: Father, fill our lives with Your love, grace and beauty. When others call our names to mind, may we represent only those qualities that they see in Jesus Christ, our Savior, in Whose Name we pray. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Acts 4:36-37
But there is something interesting in a name.
A name sets people, places or things apart. A name designates or describes, it represents or restricts, it gives an identity to or information about people, places or things. When someone calls us by our name, we respond, wondering what they may want. When people speak of us, they have some ideas about us in their mind – perhaps an image that represents us to them.
There is a man in the New Testament who was given the name, “Joseph.” That name means “one more” or “he will add” or “may he add.” To his family he was “one more.” But the disciples saw that “he will add” to what they were doing.
And what did he add? Encouragement! So, they changed his name to “Barnabas,” which means “Son of Encouragement.” He encouraged everyone.
When people think of us, what comes to their mind? What does our name represent to others?
Prayer: Father, fill our lives with Your love, grace and beauty. When others call our names to mind, may we represent only those qualities that they see in Jesus Christ, our Savior, in Whose Name we pray. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Acts 4:36-37
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Are You Worth Saving?
A little boy was swimming in a lake. It was a beautiful day and he was enjoying the cool water and the blue sky. Suddenly he became sick and started to sink beneath the surface and called for help. He went under once…twice…and then felt the secure arms of a strong man surround him. The man carried him to safety.
When they arrived on shore, the little boy said to the man, “Thank you, sir. Thank you for saving my life.”
“You’re welcome, son,” said the man. “But see to it that you are worth saving!”
The Lord not only saves those who call upon Him, but He puts His strong arms around us and protects us as we face the dangers of life. There are times when doubt distracts us and fears threaten us. There are days when worries overwhelm us and cares cripple us. Yet, when we turn to the Lord and trust Him, His grace is sufficient and His mercy enduring. He is always ready to deliver us from the disasters that would destroy us.
It is not enough that we are grateful for our salvation. We must be worth it. And how do we show our worth? Through loving service to those in need.
Prayer: Christ Jesus, our Savior, we are thankful for the security of Your salvation and the knowledge that we are secure in Your arms. May we show You our gratitude by reaching out to others to bring them Your salvation. In Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Romans 5:1-11
When they arrived on shore, the little boy said to the man, “Thank you, sir. Thank you for saving my life.”
“You’re welcome, son,” said the man. “But see to it that you are worth saving!”
The Lord not only saves those who call upon Him, but He puts His strong arms around us and protects us as we face the dangers of life. There are times when doubt distracts us and fears threaten us. There are days when worries overwhelm us and cares cripple us. Yet, when we turn to the Lord and trust Him, His grace is sufficient and His mercy enduring. He is always ready to deliver us from the disasters that would destroy us.
It is not enough that we are grateful for our salvation. We must be worth it. And how do we show our worth? Through loving service to those in need.
Prayer: Christ Jesus, our Savior, we are thankful for the security of Your salvation and the knowledge that we are secure in Your arms. May we show You our gratitude by reaching out to others to bring them Your salvation. In Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Romans 5:1-11
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Do What God Has For You
William Booth, the founder of the Salvation Army, began his ministry as a pastor. God burdened his heart for the people of London who lived and worked in the poorest section of the city. He would go there day after day and night after night to preach the Gospel and witness to the lost. But leaders of his denomination did not like it and called him to appear before their council.
After they outlined their complaints against him as a pastor, he asked, “May I enter evangelistic work?”
“No!” they answered, and offered him a compromise.
His wife Catherine was standing in the gallery. Upon hearing the decision of the council, she stood up, waved her handkerchief and shouted, “Never!”
Booth sprang to his feet, waved his hat “goodbye,” met his wife at the door and together they went out to launch the Salvation Army.
God has something significant for each of us to do. He has a place for us to be and a job for us to do. And He will give us the skills and talents to do what He has called us to do. But we must be willing to hear and ready to serve.
Prayer: Help each of us, Father, to be open to Your voice and available to Your call. May we listen carefully for Your call and follow Your instructions as we seek to do Your work. In Christ’s Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Matthew 28:18-29
After they outlined their complaints against him as a pastor, he asked, “May I enter evangelistic work?”
“No!” they answered, and offered him a compromise.
His wife Catherine was standing in the gallery. Upon hearing the decision of the council, she stood up, waved her handkerchief and shouted, “Never!”
Booth sprang to his feet, waved his hat “goodbye,” met his wife at the door and together they went out to launch the Salvation Army.
God has something significant for each of us to do. He has a place for us to be and a job for us to do. And He will give us the skills and talents to do what He has called us to do. But we must be willing to hear and ready to serve.
Prayer: Help each of us, Father, to be open to Your voice and available to Your call. May we listen carefully for Your call and follow Your instructions as we seek to do Your work. In Christ’s Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Matthew 28:18-29
Monday, June 14, 2010
Bloom Where You Are Planted
Recently I saw a sign that intrigued me. It read, “Bloom where you are planted!” What great advice!
God has a plan for every life. He wants to do through each of us what He cannot do through anyone else. He has made everyone of us unique, and therefore has a unique plan that is designed especially for each of us.
On one occasion He wanted a bloom in Bedford Prison. So, he planted John Bunyon there as a prisoner. From that imprisonment came the classic, thrilling book, Pilgrim’s Progress. On another occasion, he needed a bloom in Caesar’s palace. From that imprisonment came many of Paul’s prison epistles to the churches he started. He needed another bloom on the Isle of Patmos and He planted the apostle John there. From that bloom came the immortal book, The Revelation to John from Jesus Christ, which shares the vision God gave him of the last days of the world.
The Christian who blooms in the garden of God may be suffering heartaches or hardships, but nevertheless shares hope and help. We must always focus upon opportunities, not obstacles, if we are to bloom where we are planted.
Prayer: Grant us, heavenly Father, the insight to realize the importance of where we are planted and seize every moment to serve those around us. Open our eyes, our ears and our hearts to understand what You would have us to do as we serve You. In Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: John 15:1-9
God has a plan for every life. He wants to do through each of us what He cannot do through anyone else. He has made everyone of us unique, and therefore has a unique plan that is designed especially for each of us.
On one occasion He wanted a bloom in Bedford Prison. So, he planted John Bunyon there as a prisoner. From that imprisonment came the classic, thrilling book, Pilgrim’s Progress. On another occasion, he needed a bloom in Caesar’s palace. From that imprisonment came many of Paul’s prison epistles to the churches he started. He needed another bloom on the Isle of Patmos and He planted the apostle John there. From that bloom came the immortal book, The Revelation to John from Jesus Christ, which shares the vision God gave him of the last days of the world.
The Christian who blooms in the garden of God may be suffering heartaches or hardships, but nevertheless shares hope and help. We must always focus upon opportunities, not obstacles, if we are to bloom where we are planted.
Prayer: Grant us, heavenly Father, the insight to realize the importance of where we are planted and seize every moment to serve those around us. Open our eyes, our ears and our hearts to understand what You would have us to do as we serve You. In Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: John 15:1-9
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Your Slightest Wish
General Robert E. Lee sent word to Stonewall Jackson that he wanted to talk with him at his convenience.
Upon receiving word of the request, Jackson rode to the headquarters of Lee through a blinding rain storm.
When Lee saw him, he exclaimed, “I’m surprised you came through such a storm!”
“Your slightest wish, Sir,” replied Jackson, “is a supreme command to me. I always take pleasure in prompt obedience.”
In His love, God has set standards for our good and to protect us from evil and harm. He wants us to obey Him because we love and trust Him. Obedience keeps us from becoming entangled in things that distract us from His will and destroy our usefulness to Him. Obedience will bring us closer to God and His blessings, joy and peace.
Our obedience to God is not only an expression of our love for Him but it is the best proof of our commitment to Him.
His Word tells us to “Do whatever He tells you.” Are you able to say, “I always take pleasure in prompt obedience”?
Prayer: Lord, being obedient to You is not easy. I am inclined to seek my will and my ways rather than Your will and Your ways. Please, I pray, give me the strength that comes from Christ my Savior to respond when You call. In Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: John 2:5
Upon receiving word of the request, Jackson rode to the headquarters of Lee through a blinding rain storm.
When Lee saw him, he exclaimed, “I’m surprised you came through such a storm!”
“Your slightest wish, Sir,” replied Jackson, “is a supreme command to me. I always take pleasure in prompt obedience.”
In His love, God has set standards for our good and to protect us from evil and harm. He wants us to obey Him because we love and trust Him. Obedience keeps us from becoming entangled in things that distract us from His will and destroy our usefulness to Him. Obedience will bring us closer to God and His blessings, joy and peace.
Our obedience to God is not only an expression of our love for Him but it is the best proof of our commitment to Him.
His Word tells us to “Do whatever He tells you.” Are you able to say, “I always take pleasure in prompt obedience”?
Prayer: Lord, being obedient to You is not easy. I am inclined to seek my will and my ways rather than Your will and Your ways. Please, I pray, give me the strength that comes from Christ my Savior to respond when You call. In Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: John 2:5
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
When You Fall, Get Up!
During an interview, Paul Harvey, the great news commentator was asked, “What is the secret of your success?”
“I get up when I fall down,” he quickly replied.
Nearly everyone, even the greatest, fall down. Consider Peter. His name is mentioned more often than any other name, except our Lord’s. Jesus spoke more often to him than to any other disciple.
When he was called to be one of the twelve, he forsook all to follow Jesus. He even declared that he would even die for Him. What commitment!
We also read that when he was walking on water he took his eyes off of Jesus and began to sink. At the Last Supper, Jesus said that one of them would betray Him. Peter declared that under no circumstances could he ever deny Jesus. But before morning he denied his Lord three times.
When he took his eyes off of Jesus, he began to sink. When threatened, he denied his Lord. But when he fell, he confessed, repented, got up and the Lord transformed him. He became one of the most valuable of The Twelve.
When we fall, we need to get up, confess, repent and go on with God!
Prayer: Father, when we sin, convict us and forgive us when we repent. When we fall, lift us. Strengthen us, sustain us, and enable us to overcome in Your strength. We ask in Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: John 21:15-19
“I get up when I fall down,” he quickly replied.
Nearly everyone, even the greatest, fall down. Consider Peter. His name is mentioned more often than any other name, except our Lord’s. Jesus spoke more often to him than to any other disciple.
When he was called to be one of the twelve, he forsook all to follow Jesus. He even declared that he would even die for Him. What commitment!
We also read that when he was walking on water he took his eyes off of Jesus and began to sink. At the Last Supper, Jesus said that one of them would betray Him. Peter declared that under no circumstances could he ever deny Jesus. But before morning he denied his Lord three times.
When he took his eyes off of Jesus, he began to sink. When threatened, he denied his Lord. But when he fell, he confessed, repented, got up and the Lord transformed him. He became one of the most valuable of The Twelve.
When we fall, we need to get up, confess, repent and go on with God!
Prayer: Father, when we sin, convict us and forgive us when we repent. When we fall, lift us. Strengthen us, sustain us, and enable us to overcome in Your strength. We ask in Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: John 21:15-19
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Starting New
My father came from Italy. Often he would fascinate me with stories of their celebrations and holidays. One event stands out – New Year. They would begin each year with fireworks and noise making, hugging and dancing, shouting and well-wishing.
But that was not all. Believing that they should get rid of the old and take on the new, they would go through their drawers and closets and look for worn-out clothing, old dishes and furniture – whatever needed to be replaced. They would only keep what had value to them.
Perhaps it would do us good to go through our lives and take an inventory. We may find that we are harboring hatred and hostilities, harmful habits and hurts. Perhaps we would find some shortcomings and sins, false pride and forgotten promises. We may discover that there have been some days without prayer and Scripture reading, worship and witnessing.
The Bible advises us to “Throw off your old nature…be a new and different person, holy and good.”
We do not have to wait for a new year to do this. We can do it now!
Prayer: Father, we confess with sorrow, shame and sadness our sins. We ask that You would cleanse and consecrate us for Your service. Help us to throw off our faults and failures and replace them with Your values and virtues. Give us victory through Your Son, our Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Ephesians 4:20-24
But that was not all. Believing that they should get rid of the old and take on the new, they would go through their drawers and closets and look for worn-out clothing, old dishes and furniture – whatever needed to be replaced. They would only keep what had value to them.
Perhaps it would do us good to go through our lives and take an inventory. We may find that we are harboring hatred and hostilities, harmful habits and hurts. Perhaps we would find some shortcomings and sins, false pride and forgotten promises. We may discover that there have been some days without prayer and Scripture reading, worship and witnessing.
The Bible advises us to “Throw off your old nature…be a new and different person, holy and good.”
We do not have to wait for a new year to do this. We can do it now!
Prayer: Father, we confess with sorrow, shame and sadness our sins. We ask that You would cleanse and consecrate us for Your service. Help us to throw off our faults and failures and replace them with Your values and virtues. Give us victory through Your Son, our Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Ephesians 4:20-24
Monday, June 7, 2010
Keep Swinging
Babe Ruth hit seven hundred fourteen home runs in his major league career. Everyone who has the slightest interest in baseball knows that significant fact. However, not many know that he struck out one thousand three hundred thirty times. He is not remembered for the strikeouts, but for the home runs.
The will, or determination, to keep swinging when we don’t “connect” is very often the difference between failure and success. Often when we miss the “mark” the first time, we may want to give up. But we can’t if we want to succeed.
So, we must never stop swinging – whether the goal is great or small, near or distant, major or minor. The next “swing” may bring us the “home run” we have been seeking. A home run will never come with the bat on our shoulder or our eyes in the sky.
The Living Bible says, “Happy is the man who doesn’t give in and do wrong when he is tempted, for afterwards he will get as his reward the crown of life which God has promised to those who love Him.”
Prayer: Heavenly Father, give us patience, perseverance, diligence and determination to do Your will. Fill us with Your power to refuse to be disobedient or become defeated. Give us Your strength to serve You. Through Christ we pray. Amen.
Scripture for Today: James 1:12
The will, or determination, to keep swinging when we don’t “connect” is very often the difference between failure and success. Often when we miss the “mark” the first time, we may want to give up. But we can’t if we want to succeed.
So, we must never stop swinging – whether the goal is great or small, near or distant, major or minor. The next “swing” may bring us the “home run” we have been seeking. A home run will never come with the bat on our shoulder or our eyes in the sky.
The Living Bible says, “Happy is the man who doesn’t give in and do wrong when he is tempted, for afterwards he will get as his reward the crown of life which God has promised to those who love Him.”
Prayer: Heavenly Father, give us patience, perseverance, diligence and determination to do Your will. Fill us with Your power to refuse to be disobedient or become defeated. Give us Your strength to serve You. Through Christ we pray. Amen.
Scripture for Today: James 1:12
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Just When You Need Him
It was a dark, windy and stormy night. A mother was cleaning her home and said to her son, “Tommy, please run outside and get me the mop. I want to finish cleaning.”
“But,” he cried, “I’m afraid to go outside in the dark!”
“Don’t be afraid, son,” she said. “Remember, Jesus is there.”
Cautiously he opened the door and shouted, “Jesus, if You’re out there, please hand me the mop.”
The Lord will never do for us what we can do for ourselves. He expects us to use every skill and talent, every bit of knowledge and understanding, all insight and wisdom that He has given us. And when we need more, He will be there to fill in the blanks.
When we are weak, He will give us His strength. When we are tempted, He will enable us to overcome. When we are worried, His Word will bring us wisdom. When we are afraid, His presence will bring us peace. And when we are lonely, He will be our Comforter.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, help us to walk in the courage that comes from trusting in You. Give us peace to know that we are walking where You would have us to walk. May we focus on Your faithfulness and trust in Your truth, knowing that You are ever present in our lives. In Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Philippians 4:9-13
“But,” he cried, “I’m afraid to go outside in the dark!”
“Don’t be afraid, son,” she said. “Remember, Jesus is there.”
Cautiously he opened the door and shouted, “Jesus, if You’re out there, please hand me the mop.”
The Lord will never do for us what we can do for ourselves. He expects us to use every skill and talent, every bit of knowledge and understanding, all insight and wisdom that He has given us. And when we need more, He will be there to fill in the blanks.
When we are weak, He will give us His strength. When we are tempted, He will enable us to overcome. When we are worried, His Word will bring us wisdom. When we are afraid, His presence will bring us peace. And when we are lonely, He will be our Comforter.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, help us to walk in the courage that comes from trusting in You. Give us peace to know that we are walking where You would have us to walk. May we focus on Your faithfulness and trust in Your truth, knowing that You are ever present in our lives. In Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Philippians 4:9-13
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
One Day At A Time
During World War I, President Woodrow Wilson called an admiral into his office. He gave orders to the admiral to place mines all across the English Channel.
“But,” protested the admiral, “I can’t do that. It is too wide.”
“Well, then,” said the President, “can you lay just one mine?”
“Yes, sir,” he answered.
“Wonderful,” said the President. “Then you lay just one mine at a time until you get them all across the channel.”
It is important for us to always remember that God will give us the strength and the courage for one moment at a time. We never seem to be able to see as far as we would like to see. We rarely understand everything that may be happening at any given moment in life. And we always seem to want more information than is available to fill in the blanks.
No one can see around corners, through mountains or beyond the horizon. But when we go as far as we can see, God will meet us there and extend our vision and light our path. The Living Bible says, “Don’t be anxious… Live one day at a time.”
Prayer: We ask, heavenly Father, that we will learn to walk by faith when the path is blurred and the shadows dark. Give us a faith to face fear, and a determination to depend on Your deliverance. In Christ’s Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Matthew 6:34
“But,” protested the admiral, “I can’t do that. It is too wide.”
“Well, then,” said the President, “can you lay just one mine?”
“Yes, sir,” he answered.
“Wonderful,” said the President. “Then you lay just one mine at a time until you get them all across the channel.”
It is important for us to always remember that God will give us the strength and the courage for one moment at a time. We never seem to be able to see as far as we would like to see. We rarely understand everything that may be happening at any given moment in life. And we always seem to want more information than is available to fill in the blanks.
No one can see around corners, through mountains or beyond the horizon. But when we go as far as we can see, God will meet us there and extend our vision and light our path. The Living Bible says, “Don’t be anxious… Live one day at a time.”
Prayer: We ask, heavenly Father, that we will learn to walk by faith when the path is blurred and the shadows dark. Give us a faith to face fear, and a determination to depend on Your deliverance. In Christ’s Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Matthew 6:34
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Unlimited Understanding
After working on his term paper for many weeks, a student submitted his carefully written product to his professor. When it was returned, there was a note on the front of it that read, “Your work should be written so carefully and thoroughly that even the most ignorant can understand it.”
Indignant, he went to his professor, pointed to the note and said, “I certainly agree with you. Which part can’t you understand?”
It is easy to be misunderstood by others. Sometimes it is difficult for us to make our thoughts and feelings clear. Sometimes the words just won’t come out right and the thoughts get jammed.
Even though there are times when it seems that others do not understand us, there is One whose understanding is unlimited – our heavenly Father.
When we have a problem He gives us His promise that He will never leave us nor forsake us.
When life seems overwhelming, we have the assurance that He will never leave us nor forsake us.
When faced with failure, we know that His grace is sufficient.
We have His Word that He not only understands, but that His understanding is beyond measure!
Prayer: Help us, Father, to trust in Your grace and goodness, Your power and presence, Your care and concern. Enable us to believe that You will bring victory from defeat, joy from sorrow and help when life seems hopeless. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Psalm 147:5
Indignant, he went to his professor, pointed to the note and said, “I certainly agree with you. Which part can’t you understand?”
It is easy to be misunderstood by others. Sometimes it is difficult for us to make our thoughts and feelings clear. Sometimes the words just won’t come out right and the thoughts get jammed.
Even though there are times when it seems that others do not understand us, there is One whose understanding is unlimited – our heavenly Father.
When we have a problem He gives us His promise that He will never leave us nor forsake us.
When life seems overwhelming, we have the assurance that He will never leave us nor forsake us.
When faced with failure, we know that His grace is sufficient.
We have His Word that He not only understands, but that His understanding is beyond measure!
Prayer: Help us, Father, to trust in Your grace and goodness, Your power and presence, Your care and concern. Enable us to believe that You will bring victory from defeat, joy from sorrow and help when life seems hopeless. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Psalm 147:5
Thursday, May 27, 2010
It Won't Come Out Right!
A little boy was trying with all of his might to button his coat. He was having a horrible time. Every time he got to the bottom, there were buttons left over. He could not understand the problem.
“Mom,” he finally shouted, “it won’t come out right!”
“Yes, it will,” she confidently assured him. “But, you must get the first button right.”
The next time he started with the first button, and things turned out right.
If we want things to turn out right in our lives, we must start out with the right things.
What are the right things? One day Jesus said to a lawyer who was looking for an answer to that question with the following, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your souls and with all your mind. This is the first and great commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”
These two commandments are like the little boy’s buttons. If we get them right, we will come out right.
Prayer: Help me, Lord Jesus, to love You with everything I am: my heart and mind and being. May I learn to put myself aside and live fully the commandments You gave us so that my life will end as You wish, in Your presence. In Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Matthew 22: 34-40
“Mom,” he finally shouted, “it won’t come out right!”
“Yes, it will,” she confidently assured him. “But, you must get the first button right.”
The next time he started with the first button, and things turned out right.
If we want things to turn out right in our lives, we must start out with the right things.
What are the right things? One day Jesus said to a lawyer who was looking for an answer to that question with the following, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your souls and with all your mind. This is the first and great commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”
These two commandments are like the little boy’s buttons. If we get them right, we will come out right.
Prayer: Help me, Lord Jesus, to love You with everything I am: my heart and mind and being. May I learn to put myself aside and live fully the commandments You gave us so that my life will end as You wish, in Your presence. In Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Matthew 22: 34-40
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Looking Unto Jesus
Florence Chadwick was the first woman to swim from England to France. When she first waded into the Catalina Channel, the water was cold. Soon after she began to swim, she saw sharks. The fog became thicker and the waves higher. After sixteen hours, she gave up.
“Why?” someone asked her.
“If I could have seen land,” she confessed, “I might have been able to make it.”
Two months later she accomplished her goal. The fog lifted, the waves subsided, the sharks were gone. She was able to see her goal!
One of the writers of the Bible knew the importance of keeping our eyes upon our Goal. He wrote, “Keep your eyes on Jesus…”
Goals keep us focused. They determine how we live our lives. They can keep us moving in the right direction and enable us to accomplish God’s purpose for our lives. But when we take our eyes off of Jesus, we lose sight of the important things in life. When God’s goals for His world set the agenda for lives, we can do anything through Him Who loved us and gave Himself for us.
Prayer: Help me, Lord, to keep my eyes upon You at all times. There are so many things going on around me that I become distracted from what is best for me. Keep me in the center of Your will. In Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Philippians 3:13-14
“Why?” someone asked her.
“If I could have seen land,” she confessed, “I might have been able to make it.”
Two months later she accomplished her goal. The fog lifted, the waves subsided, the sharks were gone. She was able to see her goal!
One of the writers of the Bible knew the importance of keeping our eyes upon our Goal. He wrote, “Keep your eyes on Jesus…”
Goals keep us focused. They determine how we live our lives. They can keep us moving in the right direction and enable us to accomplish God’s purpose for our lives. But when we take our eyes off of Jesus, we lose sight of the important things in life. When God’s goals for His world set the agenda for lives, we can do anything through Him Who loved us and gave Himself for us.
Prayer: Help me, Lord, to keep my eyes upon You at all times. There are so many things going on around me that I become distracted from what is best for me. Keep me in the center of Your will. In Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Philippians 3:13-14
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Cause And Effect
Following a lengthy and dangerous surgery, the doctor took aside the patient’s fretting and talkative wife to instruct her as to his care. “Your husband must have peace and quiet,” he told her as he handed her a bottle of pills. “Here are some sleeping tablets.”
“What time am I to give them to him?” she asked.
“Oh,” said the doctor, “they’re not for him, they’re for
you.”
When I am anxious, I cannot bring peace to others. When I am afraid, I cannot bring comfort to others. When I am filled with hate, I cannot bring love to others. When I am worried, I cannot bring joy to others. When I am discouraged, I cannot bring hope to others. When I am in doubt, I cannot bring faith to others.
Jesus said, “Come to Me and learn of Me.”
If we want to bring peace and comfort, love and joy, hope and faith to others, we must first learn them from our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He is the Teacher from whom we learn the important gifts of life to give others.
Prayer: Lord, You are the teacher and I am the student. As I open my heart and mind to Your eternal truths, may I be filled with Your life-giving Spirit so that I may share Your salvation and grace with others. In Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Matthew 11:28
“What time am I to give them to him?” she asked.
“Oh,” said the doctor, “they’re not for him, they’re for
you.”
When I am anxious, I cannot bring peace to others. When I am afraid, I cannot bring comfort to others. When I am filled with hate, I cannot bring love to others. When I am worried, I cannot bring joy to others. When I am discouraged, I cannot bring hope to others. When I am in doubt, I cannot bring faith to others.
Jesus said, “Come to Me and learn of Me.”
If we want to bring peace and comfort, love and joy, hope and faith to others, we must first learn them from our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He is the Teacher from whom we learn the important gifts of life to give others.
Prayer: Lord, You are the teacher and I am the student. As I open my heart and mind to Your eternal truths, may I be filled with Your life-giving Spirit so that I may share Your salvation and grace with others. In Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Matthew 11:28
Monday, May 24, 2010
Monkeys, Melons And Money
The ring-tailed monkey of Africa is one of the most difficult animals to catch. Few have mastered the art of capturing them. But the Zulus have no problem.
They know that the monkeys enjoy the seeds of melons. So, when they want to trap a monkey, they cut a hole in a melon just large enough for the monkey’s hand.
When the monkey sees the hole, he will put his hand in it and grab as many seeds as his hand will hold. However, his fist becomes too large and he can’t withdraw it from the hole. He will fight and screech and pull the melon after him, but he will not give up the seeds. Then, the Zulus capture him.
Many people love money like that. This is why Paul warns us that the “love of money is a root for all kinds of evil.”
Money can be a good servant, but in the end, make us its slave. We can use it to exalt our selves or glorify God. We cannot serve God and money, but we can serve God with our money.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, may I realize the trap that money may set in my life. May I understand that whatever I love becomes the end of my life. Help me to recognize the traps that the devil sets for me and to avoid being ensnared by him. In Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: 1 Timothy 6:10
They know that the monkeys enjoy the seeds of melons. So, when they want to trap a monkey, they cut a hole in a melon just large enough for the monkey’s hand.
When the monkey sees the hole, he will put his hand in it and grab as many seeds as his hand will hold. However, his fist becomes too large and he can’t withdraw it from the hole. He will fight and screech and pull the melon after him, but he will not give up the seeds. Then, the Zulus capture him.
Many people love money like that. This is why Paul warns us that the “love of money is a root for all kinds of evil.”
Money can be a good servant, but in the end, make us its slave. We can use it to exalt our selves or glorify God. We cannot serve God and money, but we can serve God with our money.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, may I realize the trap that money may set in my life. May I understand that whatever I love becomes the end of my life. Help me to recognize the traps that the devil sets for me and to avoid being ensnared by him. In Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: 1 Timothy 6:10
Thursday, May 20, 2010
One Thing And One Thing Only
A farmer had been hunting all day. When he returned home that night, his dog was so tired that he could barely crawl up the steps and onto the porch.
“What’s wrong?” asked his wife.
“We only covered ten miles as the crow flies,” replied the farmer. “But every time a butterfly appeared, he chased it. Every time a dog barked, he ran after it. He probably ran fifty miles to the ten I walked. It wasn’t the trip that got him. It was his chasing after things he could never catch that wore him out.”
Paul reminds us to have a single focus in life. He said, “This one thing I do…forgetting what is behind, I reach for the things which are in front of me.”
God has a special purpose for each of us even as He did for Paul. Paul reminds us to view life as a race and strive for the finish line. We are to live a purposeful life as he did by committing our lives to the Lord to do His work in His world every day.
Prayer: Father, so often I find myself living a life without purpose or direction. It is so easy to wander aimlessly and drift carelessly unless I seek Your will in Your Word. Help me to reach for the prize You have for me in Christ Jesus, I pray. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Philippians 3:7-11
“What’s wrong?” asked his wife.
“We only covered ten miles as the crow flies,” replied the farmer. “But every time a butterfly appeared, he chased it. Every time a dog barked, he ran after it. He probably ran fifty miles to the ten I walked. It wasn’t the trip that got him. It was his chasing after things he could never catch that wore him out.”
Paul reminds us to have a single focus in life. He said, “This one thing I do…forgetting what is behind, I reach for the things which are in front of me.”
God has a special purpose for each of us even as He did for Paul. Paul reminds us to view life as a race and strive for the finish line. We are to live a purposeful life as he did by committing our lives to the Lord to do His work in His world every day.
Prayer: Father, so often I find myself living a life without purpose or direction. It is so easy to wander aimlessly and drift carelessly unless I seek Your will in Your Word. Help me to reach for the prize You have for me in Christ Jesus, I pray. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Philippians 3:7-11
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
The Whistler And His Wife
A new preacher came to town. Each day as he passed one particular home on his walk to the post office he heard a man whistling happily and loudly.
Day after day he heard the whistler. He became so fascinated with the sounds that he decided to discover where they came from. One morning the preacher opened the gate quietly and looked inside. Hearing the gate creak, “the whistler” approached the preacher asking him to come inside.
“Why do you whistle so loudly when you work?” asked the preacher.
“My wife’s a cripple,” he answered, “and she is also blind. I want her to know as she sits alone on the porch that I’m always close by and thinking about her. When she hears me whistling she knows I’m not only nearby but available.”
Our Lord is just like “the whistler” – always nearby and available. Although we may not hear Him or see Him, He is always present in our world. However, we must trust “Him with all our worries and cares, for He is always thinking about us and watching everything that concerns us.”
Prayer: Thank You, heavenly Father for always being nearby, for always watching over us and protecting us, and meeting our every need. May we always sense Your presence in our lives and Your love that surrounds us. In Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: 1 Peter 5:7
Day after day he heard the whistler. He became so fascinated with the sounds that he decided to discover where they came from. One morning the preacher opened the gate quietly and looked inside. Hearing the gate creak, “the whistler” approached the preacher asking him to come inside.
“Why do you whistle so loudly when you work?” asked the preacher.
“My wife’s a cripple,” he answered, “and she is also blind. I want her to know as she sits alone on the porch that I’m always close by and thinking about her. When she hears me whistling she knows I’m not only nearby but available.”
Our Lord is just like “the whistler” – always nearby and available. Although we may not hear Him or see Him, He is always present in our world. However, we must trust “Him with all our worries and cares, for He is always thinking about us and watching everything that concerns us.”
Prayer: Thank You, heavenly Father for always being nearby, for always watching over us and protecting us, and meeting our every need. May we always sense Your presence in our lives and Your love that surrounds us. In Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: 1 Peter 5:7
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Share My Troubles
A young man was really excited. His young lady was bubbling over with enthusiasm. They had just announced their engagement.
“Just think, sweetheart,” he said joyfully, “I’ll always be there at your side to share all your troubles!”
“But,” she replied quickly, “I don’t have many troubles.”
“You will,” he promised. “Wait ‘till after we’re married.”
We will never be without worries in this world. Rarely will a day go by without some trouble coming our way. It seems that there is always something just around the corner that we did not expect. I’ve even seen a “T” shirt saying, “Here Comes Trouble.” Wherever I am, there trouble is!
We will never be without trouble in this world. But we need not face trouble alone. Jesus said, “I will never leave you or forsake you!”
With Him, no mountain is too high to climb. No obstacle is too awesome to overcome. No problem is too difficult to solve. No habit is too strong to break. The Bible assures us that “God is our refuge and strength, a tested help in trouble.”
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for Your presence in our lives. May we have a deep and abiding faith in You, knowing that Your power within us is greater than the problems around us. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Psalm 48:1
“Just think, sweetheart,” he said joyfully, “I’ll always be there at your side to share all your troubles!”
“But,” she replied quickly, “I don’t have many troubles.”
“You will,” he promised. “Wait ‘till after we’re married.”
We will never be without worries in this world. Rarely will a day go by without some trouble coming our way. It seems that there is always something just around the corner that we did not expect. I’ve even seen a “T” shirt saying, “Here Comes Trouble.” Wherever I am, there trouble is!
We will never be without trouble in this world. But we need not face trouble alone. Jesus said, “I will never leave you or forsake you!”
With Him, no mountain is too high to climb. No obstacle is too awesome to overcome. No problem is too difficult to solve. No habit is too strong to break. The Bible assures us that “God is our refuge and strength, a tested help in trouble.”
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for Your presence in our lives. May we have a deep and abiding faith in You, knowing that Your power within us is greater than the problems around us. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Psalm 48:1
Monday, May 17, 2010
Dalmation Theology
Some individuals teach and preach a “Dalmatian Theology.” They believe that the Word of God is only inspired in certain “spots.”
How dangerous. If we pick and choose what we like and pick and choose what we do not like, it is not God’s Word that we believe, but what we want to believe about God’s Word.
Paul wrote that “All scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It straightens us out and teaches us to do what is right.”
To pick and choose what we think is right or wrong in the Bible would leave gaps in the Gospel and steps in salvation. I would be living on my terms and not God’s terms. While this may be comfortable and convenient, it is not God honoring or Christ exalting. It would not lead me into
God’s likeness, but into my selfishness. It would be doing what I want to do, not what God expects me to do.
Prayer: Father, living on my terms comes naturally. I would much rather conform to my selfish standards than the demands of Scripture. Help me to surrender my life completely to You and Your Word, that I may glorify You in all that I do. In Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: 2 Timothy 3:16,17
How dangerous. If we pick and choose what we like and pick and choose what we do not like, it is not God’s Word that we believe, but what we want to believe about God’s Word.
Paul wrote that “All scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It straightens us out and teaches us to do what is right.”
To pick and choose what we think is right or wrong in the Bible would leave gaps in the Gospel and steps in salvation. I would be living on my terms and not God’s terms. While this may be comfortable and convenient, it is not God honoring or Christ exalting. It would not lead me into
God’s likeness, but into my selfishness. It would be doing what I want to do, not what God expects me to do.
Prayer: Father, living on my terms comes naturally. I would much rather conform to my selfish standards than the demands of Scripture. Help me to surrender my life completely to You and Your Word, that I may glorify You in all that I do. In Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: 2 Timothy 3:16,17
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Empty Boxes - Empty Lives
A clever thief broke into a shoe store, took the shoes out of the boxes and placed the boxes back on the shelf – empty. The next morning, each time a sales person opened a shoe box for a customer, it was empty. Everyone was confused!
For so many individuals, life is like that. It seems like there should be some valuable contents on the inside, but there is an emptiness. There is space that can be filled with the good things that come from God.
A young man once cried, “I have every thing to live with, but I have nothing to live for. My life is empty though I have plenty!” What initially seemed to be fulfilling became frustrating. He no longer had a purpose or passion for life.
If we want to have a life that is fulfilling and overflowing, then it must begin and end with the Lord. In Him alone will we find His generous gifts of His grace to fill the empty “boxes” in our heart and fulfillment in our lives.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, we are thankful that in You and through You we can fill the empty spaces in our hearts. We are grateful for the love that You have shown us through Your Son, our Savior. May we allow Him to give life in all its fullness. Amen.
Scripture for Today: John 10:10
For so many individuals, life is like that. It seems like there should be some valuable contents on the inside, but there is an emptiness. There is space that can be filled with the good things that come from God.
A young man once cried, “I have every thing to live with, but I have nothing to live for. My life is empty though I have plenty!” What initially seemed to be fulfilling became frustrating. He no longer had a purpose or passion for life.
If we want to have a life that is fulfilling and overflowing, then it must begin and end with the Lord. In Him alone will we find His generous gifts of His grace to fill the empty “boxes” in our heart and fulfillment in our lives.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, we are thankful that in You and through You we can fill the empty spaces in our hearts. We are grateful for the love that You have shown us through Your Son, our Savior. May we allow Him to give life in all its fullness. Amen.
Scripture for Today: John 10:10
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Finding The Best
A doctor was reviewing his list of patients, and he said to his nurse, “I can’t understand it. We had more patients last year than we have had this year. I wonder where they are going?”
“Rather than worry,” said his nurse, “let’s hope for their best.”
Instead of hoping for the best, we can have the best – the gift of God’s salvation.
David, writing in Psalm 23 said, “You (God) prepare a table for me in the presence of my enemies”. No matter how difficult our days or how dark our nights, God will provide for our every need.
And Jesus said “…if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also.” When our life on earth ends and we have completed the work that He has for us to do, we have His Word that He will take us to be with Him forever.
What we can know is that God will take care of us in this life and the life to come. We simply need to ask as did the thief on the cross: “Lord, remember me.”
Prayer: We know, heavenly Father, that You love us and have promised us that whatever we ask in Your name You will give to us. We ask for Your salvation now and the assurance of life with You in heaven. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Luke 23:39-43
“Rather than worry,” said his nurse, “let’s hope for their best.”
Instead of hoping for the best, we can have the best – the gift of God’s salvation.
David, writing in Psalm 23 said, “You (God) prepare a table for me in the presence of my enemies”. No matter how difficult our days or how dark our nights, God will provide for our every need.
And Jesus said “…if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also.” When our life on earth ends and we have completed the work that He has for us to do, we have His Word that He will take us to be with Him forever.
What we can know is that God will take care of us in this life and the life to come. We simply need to ask as did the thief on the cross: “Lord, remember me.”
Prayer: We know, heavenly Father, that You love us and have promised us that whatever we ask in Your name You will give to us. We ask for Your salvation now and the assurance of life with You in heaven. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Luke 23:39-43
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
What's In A Word?
Once, President Lincoln jokingly asked a friend, “How many legs would a donkey have if you called his tail a leg?”
“Five,” came the confident answer.
“No,” said Lincoln with a grin. “Only four. Calling a tail a leg won’t make it one!”
The same is true of many who call themselves Christians. Simply calling oneself a Christian changes nothing. Unless we have surrendered our hearts and lives to Jesus Christ and asked Him to save us from our sins, we have not been born again. Salvation comes only through faith in
Jesus Christ. The Bible says, “As many as received Him, to them gave He the power to become the children of God.”
There are many things that we might have done, some things we look forward to doing, a few things we may get around to doing, but there is only one thing we must do – we must receive the Lord if we want to become a Christian.
Prayer: Dear Jesus, in the quiet of this moment I reach out to You in faith believing that You will save me from my sins. I understand that it is not what I call myself, or what others may call me, that matters. Right now, I want You to be my Savior and become a Christian. In Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: John 1:12
“Five,” came the confident answer.
“No,” said Lincoln with a grin. “Only four. Calling a tail a leg won’t make it one!”
The same is true of many who call themselves Christians. Simply calling oneself a Christian changes nothing. Unless we have surrendered our hearts and lives to Jesus Christ and asked Him to save us from our sins, we have not been born again. Salvation comes only through faith in
Jesus Christ. The Bible says, “As many as received Him, to them gave He the power to become the children of God.”
There are many things that we might have done, some things we look forward to doing, a few things we may get around to doing, but there is only one thing we must do – we must receive the Lord if we want to become a Christian.
Prayer: Dear Jesus, in the quiet of this moment I reach out to You in faith believing that You will save me from my sins. I understand that it is not what I call myself, or what others may call me, that matters. Right now, I want You to be my Savior and become a Christian. In Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: John 1:12
Monday, May 10, 2010
Looking In The Wrong Place
Late one dark night a policeman on his beat saw something strange down the street and decided to investigate. As he came closer, he saw it was a man, obviously intoxicated, crawling around on his hands and knees looking for something in the dim glow of a street light.
“What are you doing?” asked the police officer.
“Looking for my wallet,” said the man.
“How did you happen to lose it here?” was the next question.
“Oh, I didn’t. I lost it someplace else, I think, but there is no light there”, came the reply.
Searching is important. But unless we search for the right things in the right places, it is useless. When we search for life, we must look to the Lord.
Life comes to us only through a Person – Jesus Christ, Who is Savior and Lord.
Hear and heed Him as He says, “I have come that they might have life and have it more abundantly!” When we have Him we have the life we have been seeking and the search is over.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, we look to You to save us from our sins and satisfy our every need. We know that in You is the life that everyone seeks. May we find in You the light that will light our paths and guide us into Your presence. Amen.
Scripture for Today: John 10:10
“What are you doing?” asked the police officer.
“Looking for my wallet,” said the man.
“How did you happen to lose it here?” was the next question.
“Oh, I didn’t. I lost it someplace else, I think, but there is no light there”, came the reply.
Searching is important. But unless we search for the right things in the right places, it is useless. When we search for life, we must look to the Lord.
Life comes to us only through a Person – Jesus Christ, Who is Savior and Lord.
Hear and heed Him as He says, “I have come that they might have life and have it more abundantly!” When we have Him we have the life we have been seeking and the search is over.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, we look to You to save us from our sins and satisfy our every need. We know that in You is the life that everyone seeks. May we find in You the light that will light our paths and guide us into Your presence. Amen.
Scripture for Today: John 10:10
Today's video seed: "In Or Out"
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
It All Depends
An employer was conducting an interview with a new applicant. He asked, “Do you have any dependents?”
“Nope,” came the reply.
“But on your application it states that you are married.”
“I am,” she responded, “but no one can depend on my husband.”
Someone has said that the best ability is dependability. All of us have experienced feelings of abandonment when others have neglected to keep their word. We know the pain of being forsaken when someone we counted upon let us down. We have all been left “to go it alone” when the hand we expected was not there to give us a lift.
To know what to do is wisdom. To know how to do something is a skill. When we use the skills that God has given us to help others in times of need, it is God honoring. Ability is of little value without availability and dependability. We must always be ready to honor God by honoring our word. Others are counting on us.
Prayer: Help me, heavenly Father, to do what I say that I will do. May my word be as reliable as Your Word and my promises as certain as Your promises. May I not promise more than I can deliver or say something that I do not intend to do. In Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Ecclesiastes 9:10
“Nope,” came the reply.
“But on your application it states that you are married.”
“I am,” she responded, “but no one can depend on my husband.”
Someone has said that the best ability is dependability. All of us have experienced feelings of abandonment when others have neglected to keep their word. We know the pain of being forsaken when someone we counted upon let us down. We have all been left “to go it alone” when the hand we expected was not there to give us a lift.
To know what to do is wisdom. To know how to do something is a skill. When we use the skills that God has given us to help others in times of need, it is God honoring. Ability is of little value without availability and dependability. We must always be ready to honor God by honoring our word. Others are counting on us.
Prayer: Help me, heavenly Father, to do what I say that I will do. May my word be as reliable as Your Word and my promises as certain as Your promises. May I not promise more than I can deliver or say something that I do not intend to do. In Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Ecclesiastes 9:10
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Road Blocks Or Right Of Ways?
A hitchhiker, named Reginald Campbell of Las Vegas, Nevada was on his way to visit the Death Valley National Monument. Unfortunately, he could get no one to give him a ride. Becoming angry in his misery, he decided to build a road block when the traffic became sparse. Using sticks and stones, he managed to stop traffic on one side of the road, creating a dangerous situation for himself and others.
How like many of us. Because we may not succeed in what we are doing we erect barriers of blame, to prove ourselves right and others wrong. How unfortunate. Unwilling to see ourselves as we are, and as God sees us, we try to make others responsible for our faults and failures.
God’s Word reminds us to “stop …turning critical eyes on one another. If we must be critical, let us be critical of our own conduct and see that we do nothing to make a brother stumble or fall”.
PRAYER: Father, open our eyes that we might see ourselves as You see us. May we measure ourselves against the standards of Your Word. Help us to rely on Your strength to correct our weaknesses and Your power to overcome our problems. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY: Romans 14:13
How like many of us. Because we may not succeed in what we are doing we erect barriers of blame, to prove ourselves right and others wrong. How unfortunate. Unwilling to see ourselves as we are, and as God sees us, we try to make others responsible for our faults and failures.
God’s Word reminds us to “stop …turning critical eyes on one another. If we must be critical, let us be critical of our own conduct and see that we do nothing to make a brother stumble or fall”.
PRAYER: Father, open our eyes that we might see ourselves as You see us. May we measure ourselves against the standards of Your Word. Help us to rely on Your strength to correct our weaknesses and Your power to overcome our problems. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY: Romans 14:13
Today's video devotional: "Me And God"
Monday, May 3, 2010
Giving Others A Choice
A mother gave her son two beautiful apples, one larger and shiner than the other. Placing them in his hands, she instructed him to “Give your little sister her choice.”
A short time later, she noticed that he kept the bigger one for himself. So, she asked, “Why didn’t you give your sister her choice?”
“I did”, came the reply. “I gave her the choice of the little one on none at all. And she took the little one.”
There is a lot of selfishness in even the smallest of us. Size has little to do with whether or not we are self-centered of God-centered. It is easy to save rather than to share, to get rather than to give, to hoard rather than to help, to protect rather promote.
Paul reminds us that “Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.”
PRAYER: Help me, Heavenly Father, to realize that the needs of others are an opportunity for me to give to them as You have given to me. May I be sensitive to others who are without the necessities of life, and share with them of the abundance You have given me – especially Your salvation. In Your Name, Amen.
SCRIPTURE: Philippians 2:1–8
A short time later, she noticed that he kept the bigger one for himself. So, she asked, “Why didn’t you give your sister her choice?”
“I did”, came the reply. “I gave her the choice of the little one on none at all. And she took the little one.”
There is a lot of selfishness in even the smallest of us. Size has little to do with whether or not we are self-centered of God-centered. It is easy to save rather than to share, to get rather than to give, to hoard rather than to help, to protect rather promote.
Paul reminds us that “Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.”
PRAYER: Help me, Heavenly Father, to realize that the needs of others are an opportunity for me to give to them as You have given to me. May I be sensitive to others who are without the necessities of life, and share with them of the abundance You have given me – especially Your salvation. In Your Name, Amen.
SCRIPTURE: Philippians 2:1–8
Today's video devotional: "Wrong Places"
Thursday, April 29, 2010
The Shape Of The World
A teacher asked her class, “What is the shape of the world?” A little boy answered, “My father says it is in terrible shape.” How true! What is the reason? There is a rebellion against the Lord and the law of the land.
This revolt of evil is reported in the second Psalm. The kings of the earth plot against God and Jesus Christ. They want to break the Spiritual cords and get free from God.
Today children have cast off their cords of restraint and no longer respect their parents. Citizens have cast off their cords of restraint and no longer respect their policemen. Our homes have been turned into a jungle of robbery and rape, mugging and murder.
We are witnessing an attempt of the godless to snap the cords of Divine control, but it will only bring down Divine contempt.
Whatever you do, do not have the Lord against you, and if He is for you, it does not matter who is against you.
Prayer: Jesus, we need help here on earth. Some people demand that God be excluded from public places. Some have even tried to take “Christ” out of Christmas. Give me courage to be Your witness. Thank You Lord, that I know I can always talk with You and that You are always with me. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Psalm 2:1-3
This revolt of evil is reported in the second Psalm. The kings of the earth plot against God and Jesus Christ. They want to break the Spiritual cords and get free from God.
Today children have cast off their cords of restraint and no longer respect their parents. Citizens have cast off their cords of restraint and no longer respect their policemen. Our homes have been turned into a jungle of robbery and rape, mugging and murder.
We are witnessing an attempt of the godless to snap the cords of Divine control, but it will only bring down Divine contempt.
Whatever you do, do not have the Lord against you, and if He is for you, it does not matter who is against you.
Prayer: Jesus, we need help here on earth. Some people demand that God be excluded from public places. Some have even tried to take “Christ” out of Christmas. Give me courage to be Your witness. Thank You Lord, that I know I can always talk with You and that You are always with me. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Psalm 2:1-3
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Consultant On Call
They called him a miracle worker. It was a miracle every time he worked.
But he went to church and was so moved by the message that he went forward during the invitation and professed to be converted. His family and friends were delighted when he prayed: “Dear Lord, save me and use me to Your glory.” Unfortunately, he added: “I’m available whenever You need me to provide guidance to others who need help and direction.”
God does not need our advice, He needs our attention. He does not need our suggestions, He needs our service. He does not need our words, He needs our wills. He does not need our heads, He needs our hearts.
More than anything, He wants our love – for if we truly love Him, we will labor for Him and live for Him. He also wants us to worship Him, and if we do, we will gladly and willingly work for Him. It is only when we make a definite decision to follow Him that we can make a daily difference in His world.
Jesus said, “Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.”
Prayer: Help me Father, to know Your will by studying Your Word that I may do Your work. Help me to live for Thee: through Christ. Amen.
Scripture for Today: John 13:17
But he went to church and was so moved by the message that he went forward during the invitation and professed to be converted. His family and friends were delighted when he prayed: “Dear Lord, save me and use me to Your glory.” Unfortunately, he added: “I’m available whenever You need me to provide guidance to others who need help and direction.”
God does not need our advice, He needs our attention. He does not need our suggestions, He needs our service. He does not need our words, He needs our wills. He does not need our heads, He needs our hearts.
More than anything, He wants our love – for if we truly love Him, we will labor for Him and live for Him. He also wants us to worship Him, and if we do, we will gladly and willingly work for Him. It is only when we make a definite decision to follow Him that we can make a daily difference in His world.
Jesus said, “Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.”
Prayer: Help me Father, to know Your will by studying Your Word that I may do Your work. Help me to live for Thee: through Christ. Amen.
Scripture for Today: John 13:17
Today's video devotional: "Breaking The Rules"
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Turn Care Into Prayer
After an experiment failed, Lord Kelvin said to his students, “Gentlemen, when you are face to face with a difficulty, you are up against a discovery.” This is true not only in learning but also in living.
David was face to face with a difficulty and he came upon a discovery.
If it had not been for David’s pains there would not be the Psalms. These treasures came only because of his trials. He went from strength to strength because he went from struggle to struggle.
The person who has no trials has no triumphs. Joseph’s prison was the path to the palace. If he had not become Egypt’s prisoner, he would not have become Egypt’s prime minister. Even Job’s boils became his blessings.
And in heaven there are no crown wearers who were not cross bearers on earth.
Are you in distress? It is not to overwhelm you but to grow you. Turn care into prayer and your trial will become your triumph.
Prayer: Lord, thank You that I can come to You when I am overwhelmed with trouble. Thank You that You listen to me. Help me Lord, to give my trials to You: in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Psalm 4:1
David was face to face with a difficulty and he came upon a discovery.
If it had not been for David’s pains there would not be the Psalms. These treasures came only because of his trials. He went from strength to strength because he went from struggle to struggle.
The person who has no trials has no triumphs. Joseph’s prison was the path to the palace. If he had not become Egypt’s prisoner, he would not have become Egypt’s prime minister. Even Job’s boils became his blessings.
And in heaven there are no crown wearers who were not cross bearers on earth.
Are you in distress? It is not to overwhelm you but to grow you. Turn care into prayer and your trial will become your triumph.
Prayer: Lord, thank You that I can come to You when I am overwhelmed with trouble. Thank You that You listen to me. Help me Lord, to give my trials to You: in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Psalm 4:1
Today's video seed: "Nothing Impossible"
Thursday, April 22, 2010
I Brought Myself
For weeks the missionaries had been planning a special event for the children in the West Indies. They had encouraged each of the children to bring a special gift for the Lord when they came to Sunday school.
Finally, the moment arrived when the leader said, “Come, children, bring your gift to the altar.” Everyone stood, came forward, gave their gifts and then returned to their seats. Except one.
“Why are you standing there?” the leader asked.
“I have nothing to give the Lord except me, so I just stood here and prayed asking if He wanted me.”
And that’s exactly what He wants.
Paul pleads that we “present our bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.”
What an example this small child is to each of us. There she stood while others gave their gifts. But she gave God the most valuable gift – her body. Can we do less?
Prayer: Father, many of us have given all that we have except our bodies. But that is where we should begin. Help us to realize that nothing else is a gift of importance to You other than ourselves, and may we gladly give “me” to You: in Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Romans 12:1-2
Finally, the moment arrived when the leader said, “Come, children, bring your gift to the altar.” Everyone stood, came forward, gave their gifts and then returned to their seats. Except one.
“Why are you standing there?” the leader asked.
“I have nothing to give the Lord except me, so I just stood here and prayed asking if He wanted me.”
And that’s exactly what He wants.
Paul pleads that we “present our bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.”
What an example this small child is to each of us. There she stood while others gave their gifts. But she gave God the most valuable gift – her body. Can we do less?
Prayer: Father, many of us have given all that we have except our bodies. But that is where we should begin. Help us to realize that nothing else is a gift of importance to You other than ourselves, and may we gladly give “me” to You: in Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Romans 12:1-2
Today's video: "Never Forsaken"
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Reach Out!
Many years ago, a Georgia farmer had one mule that was particularly stubborn. He would not go anywhere or do anything without a reward.
After much thought and planning the farmer fastened a pole to the mule’s harness. It extended about one foot beyond the mule’s nose. On the end of the pole he tied an ear of corn – just beyond the mule’s mouth. Excited, the mule began to walk, trying to reach the ear of corn. He was never able to reach it, though he tried and tried.
How different is our Lord. He never tempts us with promises He will not keep. He never brings a problem into our life without having a solution available. He never teases us with an empty treat.
And we have His Word that He will not abandon us without wanting to save us. We have the assurance that “Whosoever calls upon the name of the Lord will be saved!”
If we reach out to Him we will realize that He has already reached out to us with His salvation through Jesus Christ, His Son, our Savior.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, Your Word promises us that You came to seek us and to save us. Give us the faith to believe in Your promises that You came to seek and to save us from our sin: in Christ’s Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: John 3:16
After much thought and planning the farmer fastened a pole to the mule’s harness. It extended about one foot beyond the mule’s nose. On the end of the pole he tied an ear of corn – just beyond the mule’s mouth. Excited, the mule began to walk, trying to reach the ear of corn. He was never able to reach it, though he tried and tried.
How different is our Lord. He never tempts us with promises He will not keep. He never brings a problem into our life without having a solution available. He never teases us with an empty treat.
And we have His Word that He will not abandon us without wanting to save us. We have the assurance that “Whosoever calls upon the name of the Lord will be saved!”
If we reach out to Him we will realize that He has already reached out to us with His salvation through Jesus Christ, His Son, our Savior.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, Your Word promises us that You came to seek us and to save us. Give us the faith to believe in Your promises that You came to seek and to save us from our sin: in Christ’s Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: John 3:16
Today's video devotional: "Are Your Hands Clean?"
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Serious Difficulty
During World War II a Marine was huddled in his foxhole. He had not received any mail for weeks and was feeling lonely and afraid. One day, with bullets flying overhead and bombs bursting all around him, he was handed an envelope. Excited and joyful, he immediately opened it, expecting some encouraging words.
Unfortunately, it was a statement from a collection agency that read, “If this bill is not paid in five days, you’ll find yourself in serious difficulty.”
We often experience days that are filled with one difficulty or disappointment after another. Wherever we look, we feel as though we are under attack.
But every difficulty becomes an opportunity for God. With His Spirit in our hearts, His words in our minds and His angels to surround us, we know that His presence will sustain us.
Seek the Savior, and you will have His strength for life’s battles, His courage for life’s conflicts, and His presence amidst life’s pain.
Prayer: Father, there are days when we all feel the stress of life’s battles and the loneliness of being abandoned. In the midst of the darkest days and the longest nights, may we learn to place our trust in You for our salvation: in Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Psalm 18:25-32
Unfortunately, it was a statement from a collection agency that read, “If this bill is not paid in five days, you’ll find yourself in serious difficulty.”
We often experience days that are filled with one difficulty or disappointment after another. Wherever we look, we feel as though we are under attack.
But every difficulty becomes an opportunity for God. With His Spirit in our hearts, His words in our minds and His angels to surround us, we know that His presence will sustain us.
Seek the Savior, and you will have His strength for life’s battles, His courage for life’s conflicts, and His presence amidst life’s pain.
Prayer: Father, there are days when we all feel the stress of life’s battles and the loneliness of being abandoned. In the midst of the darkest days and the longest nights, may we learn to place our trust in You for our salvation: in Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Psalm 18:25-32
Today's video devotional: "An Act Of God"
Monday, April 19, 2010
Saved By A Storm
For months a homeless woman wandered the streets of her city alone and in agony. She did not know where she was, where she was going or even her name.
One day a thunderstorm broke out. Suddenly, a bolt of lightning struck near by and jolted her. As the crackling subsided, she realized that her memory had returned and she was able to remember the details of her life. Happily, she went home to her family.
We read in the Psalms of a king who had a similar experience. Though no doubt he knew who he was and where he was, he had been wandering aimlessly. Once he asked God to teach him good judgment and knowledge, reminding Him that he was aware of His commandments and knew their value for his life. He admitted that he had gone astray and as a result was “afflicted.” And he added, “It was good for me that I was afflicted that I might learn Your statues.”
If we let them, the storms in our lives may serve to bring us back to, or perhaps, much closer to our Lord Jesus Christ. It always seems as though the grass is greener after the rain.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, when we experience the storms of life, help us to realize that You are there and that You want to bring us closer to You: in Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Psalm 119:65-72
One day a thunderstorm broke out. Suddenly, a bolt of lightning struck near by and jolted her. As the crackling subsided, she realized that her memory had returned and she was able to remember the details of her life. Happily, she went home to her family.
We read in the Psalms of a king who had a similar experience. Though no doubt he knew who he was and where he was, he had been wandering aimlessly. Once he asked God to teach him good judgment and knowledge, reminding Him that he was aware of His commandments and knew their value for his life. He admitted that he had gone astray and as a result was “afflicted.” And he added, “It was good for me that I was afflicted that I might learn Your statues.”
If we let them, the storms in our lives may serve to bring us back to, or perhaps, much closer to our Lord Jesus Christ. It always seems as though the grass is greener after the rain.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, when we experience the storms of life, help us to realize that You are there and that You want to bring us closer to You: in Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Psalm 119:65-72
Today's video devotional: "Live Like Jesus"
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Tempted To Be Bad Tempered
Bobby Jones, one on the world’s all-time great golfers, began playing golf at the age of five. At twelve, he was the town’s best golfer. But he had a terrible temper.
When he was fourteen, he entered the National Amateur Tournament and lost. His Grandpa Bart said to him, “You’re good enough to win. But you will never win until you control your temper.”
Years later, after winning tournament after tournament, a reporter was talking to Grandpa Bart about Bobby. During the interview Grandpa said, “Bobby was fourteen when he mastered golf. But he was twenty-one when he mastered himself.”
It is a tragedy when we allow our tempers to control us instead of God controlling our tempers. His power is available to us when we surrender our hearts and lives to Him and ask for His Spirit to live within us.
If we do not master our tempers, our tempers will master us. God’s Word warns us to “Stop being mean, bad-tempered and angry.”
Prayer: Lord, there are times when I lose control of my faith and feelings and do and say things that I regret. Please take charge of my life and let me be the kind of person who reflects Your kindness at all times. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Ephesians 4:26
When he was fourteen, he entered the National Amateur Tournament and lost. His Grandpa Bart said to him, “You’re good enough to win. But you will never win until you control your temper.”
Years later, after winning tournament after tournament, a reporter was talking to Grandpa Bart about Bobby. During the interview Grandpa said, “Bobby was fourteen when he mastered golf. But he was twenty-one when he mastered himself.”
It is a tragedy when we allow our tempers to control us instead of God controlling our tempers. His power is available to us when we surrender our hearts and lives to Him and ask for His Spirit to live within us.
If we do not master our tempers, our tempers will master us. God’s Word warns us to “Stop being mean, bad-tempered and angry.”
Prayer: Lord, there are times when I lose control of my faith and feelings and do and say things that I regret. Please take charge of my life and let me be the kind of person who reflects Your kindness at all times. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Ephesians 4:26
Today's video devotional: "Case Of The Unlocked Door."
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Let's Go To Church
“Dad,” said a small child getting ready for Sunday school, “I want to be just like you. When will I be old enough not to have to go to church?”
The father blushed with embarrassment and said, “Come on son, let’s go to church together.”
Most parents are anxious that their children go to church. Unfortunately, many parents do not realize how important it is for them to set the proper example for their children. Going to church is one of the most important examples parents can set for their children. It demonstrates the value and priority they place on worshiping together.
Being a Christian without going to church is like a soldier going into battle without an army or a violinist preparing for a concert without any accompaniment. A family trying to live life without worshiping together is like a ship with no rudder.
The Apostle Paul wisely said, “Let us not neglect our church meetings, as some people do, but encourage and warn each other, especially now that the day of His coming back is drawing near.”
Prayer: Father, I admit that I need to be with others and worship and praise You. Help me to be faithful and join with others to honor You: in Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Hebrews 10:25
The father blushed with embarrassment and said, “Come on son, let’s go to church together.”
Most parents are anxious that their children go to church. Unfortunately, many parents do not realize how important it is for them to set the proper example for their children. Going to church is one of the most important examples parents can set for their children. It demonstrates the value and priority they place on worshiping together.
Being a Christian without going to church is like a soldier going into battle without an army or a violinist preparing for a concert without any accompaniment. A family trying to live life without worshiping together is like a ship with no rudder.
The Apostle Paul wisely said, “Let us not neglect our church meetings, as some people do, but encourage and warn each other, especially now that the day of His coming back is drawing near.”
Prayer: Father, I admit that I need to be with others and worship and praise You. Help me to be faithful and join with others to honor You: in Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Hebrews 10:25
Today's video devotional: "A Brand New Person"
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Proof that Prayer Works
A stranger walked into our recording studio and was impressed with all of the equipment that we use. He had difficulty in believing everything he saw. Turning to me he asked, “Where did you get the loot to buy all this?”
“From God,” I answered. “We ask Him for what we need and He always provides it to us when we need it!”
We walked to my office and paused in front of our “prayer board” which contained pictures of the items we were praying for. Looking at a folding machine he asked, “Think you’ll get it?” I replied, “I know we will. God answers prayer!”
With an unbelieving smile he sat down across from me. The phone rang and a voice said, “I just heard your broadcast and it blessed my heart. I want to do something for you. What do you need?”
“A folding machine,” I answered. “Order it,” he said, “I’m sending a check right now.”
“Wow, I’ve just seen a live answer to prayer!”
Jesus said: “Whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith.”
Prayer: Lord, we believe in Your power to answer our prayers. May we learn to pray with faith, believing that you will hear and answer our prayers: in Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Matthew 22:22
“From God,” I answered. “We ask Him for what we need and He always provides it to us when we need it!”
We walked to my office and paused in front of our “prayer board” which contained pictures of the items we were praying for. Looking at a folding machine he asked, “Think you’ll get it?” I replied, “I know we will. God answers prayer!”
With an unbelieving smile he sat down across from me. The phone rang and a voice said, “I just heard your broadcast and it blessed my heart. I want to do something for you. What do you need?”
“A folding machine,” I answered. “Order it,” he said, “I’m sending a check right now.”
“Wow, I’ve just seen a live answer to prayer!”
Jesus said: “Whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith.”
Prayer: Lord, we believe in Your power to answer our prayers. May we learn to pray with faith, believing that you will hear and answer our prayers: in Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Matthew 22:22
Today's video devotional: "Remembered Or Released"
Monday, April 12, 2010
Handicaps
One of the world’s greatest speakers of ancient Greece was Demosthenes. He was born with a severe speech defect. To overcome his problem he would practice speaking with small pebbles in his mouth. He overcame his difficulty.
The Apostle Paul said of himself the following: “I did not come with eloquence…,” my “bodily presence is weak and (my) speech contemptible…” and “though my condition put you to the test you did not scorn or despise me.” Yet he was and is recognized as one of the greatest missionaries, theologians and teachers who ever lived.
Handicapped? Have problems? Lacking in skills and talents? Need to improve on the gifts God has given you? Jesus said, “My grace is all you need, for my power is strongest when you are weak.”
When we look at ourselves and feel inadequate, we need to turn our thoughts to God and realize that we are His handiwork. He has important work for each of us to do. But we must give our all to Him and let Him work His miracles through us.
Prayer: Help me, Father, to take what You have given me, work with it, and use it to honor You in all that I do. You have been gracious in what You have given me, and I give it back to You for Your glory. Amen.
Scripture for Today: 2 Corinthians 12:7-10
The Apostle Paul said of himself the following: “I did not come with eloquence…,” my “bodily presence is weak and (my) speech contemptible…” and “though my condition put you to the test you did not scorn or despise me.” Yet he was and is recognized as one of the greatest missionaries, theologians and teachers who ever lived.
Handicapped? Have problems? Lacking in skills and talents? Need to improve on the gifts God has given you? Jesus said, “My grace is all you need, for my power is strongest when you are weak.”
When we look at ourselves and feel inadequate, we need to turn our thoughts to God and realize that we are His handiwork. He has important work for each of us to do. But we must give our all to Him and let Him work His miracles through us.
Prayer: Help me, Father, to take what You have given me, work with it, and use it to honor You in all that I do. You have been gracious in what You have given me, and I give it back to You for Your glory. Amen.
Scripture for Today: 2 Corinthians 12:7-10
Today's video devotional: "Willing and Doing"
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Self-Made Man
A man brought his arrogant, bitter and cruel boss home for dinner. He had spoken often about how difficult it was to work for him. His son stared at the guest for quite some time but said nothing.
Finally, the boss asked, “Why are you staring at me?”
“Because,” said the boy, “dad says you are a self-made man and I’m wondering why you made yourself the way you are.”
The Bible tells us that we were created in the image of God, that we were intended to be like Him.
Whenever we try to make ourselves into something other than what God intended for us to be, we end up in disaster. God has great plans for each of us. He wants our lives to be filled with the joy that comes from knowing His Son, Jesus Christ as our Savior. He wants us to feel the comfort of His presence. He wants us to realize that His peace is available when our hearts are troubled.
Most of all He wants us to give Him first place in our lives. When we do this, we will enjoy the full potential He has for us and have life with a capital “L.”
Prayer: Father, there are times when each of us think mistakenly that we know what is best for us. Help us to seek You with all of our hearts so that we may be who You want us to be: in Jesus name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Matthew 6:33
Finally, the boss asked, “Why are you staring at me?”
“Because,” said the boy, “dad says you are a self-made man and I’m wondering why you made yourself the way you are.”
The Bible tells us that we were created in the image of God, that we were intended to be like Him.
Whenever we try to make ourselves into something other than what God intended for us to be, we end up in disaster. God has great plans for each of us. He wants our lives to be filled with the joy that comes from knowing His Son, Jesus Christ as our Savior. He wants us to feel the comfort of His presence. He wants us to realize that His peace is available when our hearts are troubled.
Most of all He wants us to give Him first place in our lives. When we do this, we will enjoy the full potential He has for us and have life with a capital “L.”
Prayer: Father, there are times when each of us think mistakenly that we know what is best for us. Help us to seek You with all of our hearts so that we may be who You want us to be: in Jesus name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Matthew 6:33
Today's video seed: "Don't Be Discouraged"
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Tremble, And Sin Not
Some folk years ago were called “Quakers” because they quaked at the presence of sin and the preaching of the Scriptures. David must have wished for a congregation of “quakers.” He said in Psalm 4:4, “Stand in awe, and sin not.” It means, “Tremble and sin not.” But many have reversed the verse. They say, “Sin and tremble not.”
Perhaps the greatest mistake in the world today is that men and women have lost their fear of sin. If you want to play with something dangerous reach into the heavens and play with forked lightning, or reach into the fireplace and play with fire, or reach into the forest and play with a rattlesnake, but don’t play with sin.
Two boys poked a piece of copper wire around a live rail on the subway tracks. There was a bright flash and a loud cry as ten thousand volts of electricity passed through their bodies. Was that dangerous? Yes, but not as dangerous as playing with sin. So pay attention to Psalm 4:4, “Tremble, and sin not!” And remember, where sin is mighty, the Savior is almighty.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to search my heart and to understand when I have sinned . Give me wisdom and help me to turn away from sin when the evil opportunity presents itself once again: in Thy Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Psalm 4:4
Perhaps the greatest mistake in the world today is that men and women have lost their fear of sin. If you want to play with something dangerous reach into the heavens and play with forked lightning, or reach into the fireplace and play with fire, or reach into the forest and play with a rattlesnake, but don’t play with sin.
Two boys poked a piece of copper wire around a live rail on the subway tracks. There was a bright flash and a loud cry as ten thousand volts of electricity passed through their bodies. Was that dangerous? Yes, but not as dangerous as playing with sin. So pay attention to Psalm 4:4, “Tremble, and sin not!” And remember, where sin is mighty, the Savior is almighty.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to search my heart and to understand when I have sinned . Give me wisdom and help me to turn away from sin when the evil opportunity presents itself once again: in Thy Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Psalm 4:4
Today's video seed: "Do Right"
Monday, April 5, 2010
He Gave Himself For Me
One day a man decided that he was going to kill President Harry S. Truman. He waited patiently for the right moment when the president would come into his line of sight. Just as he pulled the trigger and fired his gun, a Secret Service Agent threw himself in front of the president, took the bullet and was killed. He gave his life for the president and the president’s life was spared.
“I never knew what it meant,” said Mr. Truman, “to have someone die in my place.”
There is One, however, who has died in our place that we might have eternal life. There is One who loved us so much that He gave His only Son to die for us that we might have eternal life and live forever with Him.
This One that gave His life did not live a secret life. He lived His life where all could see Him, hear Him, come to know Him and follow Him. The Bible says that “He loved me and gave Himself for me.”
Thank God that He loves us, gave His Son for us, and that He died for us.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You that You loved us so much that You gave Your Son Jesus to die in our place. May we come to love You more each day and realize that because You died, we may live: in Christ’s name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Galatians 2
“I never knew what it meant,” said Mr. Truman, “to have someone die in my place.”
There is One, however, who has died in our place that we might have eternal life. There is One who loved us so much that He gave His only Son to die for us that we might have eternal life and live forever with Him.
This One that gave His life did not live a secret life. He lived His life where all could see Him, hear Him, come to know Him and follow Him. The Bible says that “He loved me and gave Himself for me.”
Thank God that He loves us, gave His Son for us, and that He died for us.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You that You loved us so much that You gave Your Son Jesus to die in our place. May we come to love You more each day and realize that because You died, we may live: in Christ’s name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Galatians 2
Today's video seed: "People God Uses"
Thursday, April 1, 2010
The Happy Man
When I was a little fellow, I caught some “lightning bugs” and sealed them in a jar. It was fun watching their tiny bright lights glow in the dark by my bed.
I woke up early the next morning to see their lights but the glow was gone. The lightning bugs had died.
It is like that with human beings. Some think that happiness and pleasure are synonymous. But it is not a commodity that can be bought. It is a condition.
Others think that happiness and plenty are synonymous. But happiness is not derived from possessions, nor destroyed by poverty. Remember the story of the king who asked for the shirt of the happiest man in this kingdom? They found the man – but he did not have a shirt.
Happiness is not what happens to us, but what happens in us. It is the by-product of a life that is adjusted to the will of God and regulated by the Word of God. Seek God through Christ and let Him have His way, and you will be happy.
Prayer: Jesus, help me to remember that while worldly possessions may bring a temporary type of pleasure the only true and lasting happiness comes from You. Help me to search the Scriptures daily so that I can understand Your way of life: in Your name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Psalm 1:1-2
I woke up early the next morning to see their lights but the glow was gone. The lightning bugs had died.
It is like that with human beings. Some think that happiness and pleasure are synonymous. But it is not a commodity that can be bought. It is a condition.
Others think that happiness and plenty are synonymous. But happiness is not derived from possessions, nor destroyed by poverty. Remember the story of the king who asked for the shirt of the happiest man in this kingdom? They found the man – but he did not have a shirt.
Happiness is not what happens to us, but what happens in us. It is the by-product of a life that is adjusted to the will of God and regulated by the Word of God. Seek God through Christ and let Him have His way, and you will be happy.
Prayer: Jesus, help me to remember that while worldly possessions may bring a temporary type of pleasure the only true and lasting happiness comes from You. Help me to search the Scriptures daily so that I can understand Your way of life: in Your name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Psalm 1:1-2
Today's video devotional: "Scripturally Certain"
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Working Instead of Waiting
A tourist noticed a man sitting by the ruins of a home that had been blown away by the winds of a tornado. Puzzled he asked, “Was this your home?”
“Yep,” he said.
“Any of your family blown away with it?” the tourist continued.
“Yep. My wife and kids,” came the reply.
“My goodness, why aren’t you out looking for them?” the stranger wondered.
“Well, the wind is due to change in a moment,” he said, “so I might as well wait right here until it brings them back.”
For some, it is easier to wait than to work. It is more convenient to pause than to pursue. It is easier to ponder than to push.
God will not do for us what we can do for ourselves. He will never give His best if we sit and wait when He has given us skills and talents to use to His glory. We must work as though everything depended on us and pray as though everything depended on Him.
Prayer: We pray, Father, that we will take the initiative to use the skills that You have given us to solve our problems, enrich our lives and make Your world a better place: in Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Mark 10:27
“Yep,” he said.
“Any of your family blown away with it?” the tourist continued.
“Yep. My wife and kids,” came the reply.
“My goodness, why aren’t you out looking for them?” the stranger wondered.
“Well, the wind is due to change in a moment,” he said, “so I might as well wait right here until it brings them back.”
For some, it is easier to wait than to work. It is more convenient to pause than to pursue. It is easier to ponder than to push.
God will not do for us what we can do for ourselves. He will never give His best if we sit and wait when He has given us skills and talents to use to His glory. We must work as though everything depended on us and pray as though everything depended on Him.
Prayer: We pray, Father, that we will take the initiative to use the skills that You have given us to solve our problems, enrich our lives and make Your world a better place: in Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Mark 10:27
Today's video devotional: "Making Dough"
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Lift To Release
Years ago, while riding on a train, I saw a lever with words above it that read: “Lift to release!” It reminded me of the power of prayer and of that Bible verse that challenges us to “pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands.” It was the custom in years gone by that when people prayed they would hold up their hands with their empty palms toward heaven. This action expressed their faith in God. It was as if they were waiting and expecting God to fill them with His blessings. They were actually waiting to receive something from God.
The prayer of a faith-filled person is mightier than any power on earth. It has the unlimited power of God connected to it. Have a problem? Carrying a burden? Faced with uncertainty? Worried about finances? Have an illness? Threatened with a family problem? Take everything to God in prayer and trust in Him. He can do everything. Lift your hands to God in prayer, expecting. And remember the sign that reads, “Lift to release!”
Prayer: Father, I lift my hands to You in prayer today, surrendering my whole heart to You in faith believing that You will hear me and honor my requests. Help me to increase my faith and to trust in You knowing that You will fill me with the desire to do Your will: in Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: John 14: 7-14
The prayer of a faith-filled person is mightier than any power on earth. It has the unlimited power of God connected to it. Have a problem? Carrying a burden? Faced with uncertainty? Worried about finances? Have an illness? Threatened with a family problem? Take everything to God in prayer and trust in Him. He can do everything. Lift your hands to God in prayer, expecting. And remember the sign that reads, “Lift to release!”
Prayer: Father, I lift my hands to You in prayer today, surrendering my whole heart to You in faith believing that You will hear me and honor my requests. Help me to increase my faith and to trust in You knowing that You will fill me with the desire to do Your will: in Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: John 14: 7-14
Today's video seed: "No Change"
Monday, March 29, 2010
Of Course You Will!
The parents of a small child were killed in an automobile accident. She had no other family members who could care for her, so she was taken to the home of another family where she would live. On her first night in her new home she prayed, “Oh Lord, make these people be as kind to me as my own mother and father were.” Then she paused for a moment and added, “Of course they will be kind to me!” And they were. She had faith and God heard and answered her prayer.
The Bible tells us that “you can pray for anything and if you believe, it will be done for you by your Father in heaven.” Effective Christian living depends on our faith in Christ. We are saved by faith, we are to live by faith and we are to pray in faith believing that with God, all things are possible. It is important that we constantly remind ourselves that “without faith it is impossible to please Him” and that our prayers are the keys that unlock all the treasures of heaven. Faith, however, is the hand that turns the key!
Prayer: Father, I want a faith like the child in this story. I admit that sometimes my faith is smaller than a mustard seed. But that’s not the way I want it to remain. Give me the desire to increase my faith by being close to You and listen as You speak to my heart: in Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Matthew 21:17-22
The Bible tells us that “you can pray for anything and if you believe, it will be done for you by your Father in heaven.” Effective Christian living depends on our faith in Christ. We are saved by faith, we are to live by faith and we are to pray in faith believing that with God, all things are possible. It is important that we constantly remind ourselves that “without faith it is impossible to please Him” and that our prayers are the keys that unlock all the treasures of heaven. Faith, however, is the hand that turns the key!
Prayer: Father, I want a faith like the child in this story. I admit that sometimes my faith is smaller than a mustard seed. But that’s not the way I want it to remain. Give me the desire to increase my faith by being close to You and listen as You speak to my heart: in Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Matthew 21:17-22
Today's video seed: "Head, Hands and Heart"
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
No Excuses
A young boy came home from school with his report card. His father studied it and shook his head. “What’s the problem, Pop?” he asked. “Do you think it is heredity or the environment?” Many people, like that boy, go through life looking for an excuse for their failure rather than to struggle for success. They criticize their circumstances rather than conquering their conditions. They would rather spend time looking for a way out than discovering a way up.
It is time to set aside our disabilities and focus on our possibilities. It is time to move from the problem to the solution. And it is time to accept our responsibility and put it with His ability. With faith in God, we can mix toil with trust, and turn our set backs into successes. No excuses. Instead let us excell in all things through His power.
Prayer: Father, I thank You that I am fearfully and wonderfully made, and that with Your power I can become who You want me to be. Help me to turn every trial into a triumph and every problem into a possibility. I want to please You with the gifts You have given me and do my best to honor You in every situation. I give You credit for every success in my life and trust that You will see me through every problem: in Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Luke 16:19
It is time to set aside our disabilities and focus on our possibilities. It is time to move from the problem to the solution. And it is time to accept our responsibility and put it with His ability. With faith in God, we can mix toil with trust, and turn our set backs into successes. No excuses. Instead let us excell in all things through His power.
Prayer: Father, I thank You that I am fearfully and wonderfully made, and that with Your power I can become who You want me to be. Help me to turn every trial into a triumph and every problem into a possibility. I want to please You with the gifts You have given me and do my best to honor You in every situation. I give You credit for every success in my life and trust that You will see me through every problem: in Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Luke 16:19
Today's video devotional:
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Only Believe
Holding tightly to the hand of his little girl, Paul Radar was crossing one of Chicago’s busiest streets. Turning to her he asked, “Aren’t you afraid?” “No,” said the four-year-old. “I’m never afraid when you are with me and holding my hand.”
As he listened to her words, his mind was flooded with the thought that he would do well to have the same childlike faith in his heavenly Father. It inspired him as he thought about it and compelled him to write the famous hymn, “Only Believe.”
It is always comforting to know that our Lord is always with us, holding our hand and putting His arm around our shoulder. In our weariest times, He will be our strength. In our darkest nights, He will be our light. In our weakest hour, He will become our source of power. As we put our faith in God, we can know without a doubt that all things are possible to those who believe.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to realize all of the time that You will never leave me nor forsake me. Your Word says that there is nothing that can snatch me out of your hand. So, I put my faith in You and believe that with You, all things are possible: in Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Mark 11:22
As he listened to her words, his mind was flooded with the thought that he would do well to have the same childlike faith in his heavenly Father. It inspired him as he thought about it and compelled him to write the famous hymn, “Only Believe.”
It is always comforting to know that our Lord is always with us, holding our hand and putting His arm around our shoulder. In our weariest times, He will be our strength. In our darkest nights, He will be our light. In our weakest hour, He will become our source of power. As we put our faith in God, we can know without a doubt that all things are possible to those who believe.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to realize all of the time that You will never leave me nor forsake me. Your Word says that there is nothing that can snatch me out of your hand. So, I put my faith in You and believe that with You, all things are possible: in Your Name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Mark 11:22
Today's video devotional: "What's Your God?"
Monday, March 22, 2010
Never Give Up
When he was a small child, Winston Churchill was neglected and abandoned by his family. He was sent to a boarding school for his education. While he was there, he constantly asked for his parents to come visit him. But they never came. His childhood was distressing and his early career disastrous. However, he was able to turn every set back into a success and every trial into a triumph. Late in life he was asked to return to that boarding school and to deliver the commencement address. His address consisted of three words, “Never give up!”
Life can be tough, really tough. But if we place our trust in God, He can and will turn our tragedies into triumphs, our failures into fortunes. Rather than give up, we must go on. We must believe what the Bible says, “I can do all things through Christ!” Not a few things. Not many things. But all things. Behave what you believe!
Prayer: Heavenly Father, may I always remember that there is no problem that is too difficult for You to solve and no burden too big for you to bear. All things are possible if only I believe. Increase my faith and trust in You as I face the issues of life: in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Philippians 4:13
Life can be tough, really tough. But if we place our trust in God, He can and will turn our tragedies into triumphs, our failures into fortunes. Rather than give up, we must go on. We must believe what the Bible says, “I can do all things through Christ!” Not a few things. Not many things. But all things. Behave what you believe!
Prayer: Heavenly Father, may I always remember that there is no problem that is too difficult for You to solve and no burden too big for you to bear. All things are possible if only I believe. Increase my faith and trust in You as I face the issues of life: in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Philippians 4:13
Today's video devotional: "No Food On His Head"
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Diamonds From A Dungeon
His family must have spent a fortune on his education. He studied under the greatest teachers of his day. He was thoroughly trained in law. Became a well-recognized warrior. Traveled extensively. Enjoyed athletic competition so much that he knew all the rules and measures used to evaluate athletes. One day God spoke to him in a dramatic way and his life was changed forever. He put his complete trust in God and decided to follow Him completely. Eventually, things changed. Life did not become easy for him, but difficult. As a result of his obedience, he suffered shipwrecks and stoning. He faced death from maddening mobs and whips that lashed his body. Even though he was thrown into prison, his spirit was never shattered nor his faith flawed.
How did Paul endure these hardships? He turned his dungeon into a mine of diamonds. He wrote some of the world’s finest letters, inspired early church leaders, formed the theological foundation of Christianity and endured hardships as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.
While in prison he wrote, “We know that all things work together for good.”
Prayer: Father, help me to find Your comfort in conflict, Your solace in sorrow and Your encouragement in times of discouragement: in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Romans 8:28
How did Paul endure these hardships? He turned his dungeon into a mine of diamonds. He wrote some of the world’s finest letters, inspired early church leaders, formed the theological foundation of Christianity and endured hardships as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.
While in prison he wrote, “We know that all things work together for good.”
Prayer: Father, help me to find Your comfort in conflict, Your solace in sorrow and Your encouragement in times of discouragement: in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Romans 8:28
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
I Believe, Therefore I Expect
A reporter once said to Pete Rose, “You need 78 hits to break Ty Cobb’s record. How many times at bat do you think you’ll need to get 78 hits?” “Seventy-eight,” came the answer. “Come on,” said the reporter, “you don’t expect to get 78 hits in 78 at bats, do you?”
“Every time I step up to the plate,” said Rose, “I expect to get a hit! If I don’t expect to get a hit, I have no right getting in the batter’s box.”
Whenever we pray, we need to have “great expectations.” We need to have that same attitude in prayer that Pete Rose had in hitting. When we go to the Lord in prayer, it is important that we expect an answer. And if we pray according to His will, He will hear us and give us whatever we expect.
Faith for the Christian is believing that we will get what we do not see. The reward of faith is seeing what we believe.
Prayer: Father, I want to have complete confidence that when I pray You will hear me. I know that I can do all things through You when I pray according to Your will and Your Word. Give me a faith that is strong so that when I pray I can expect my prayers to be answered as I wait patiently in Your presence: in Christ’s name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Romans 8:28
“Every time I step up to the plate,” said Rose, “I expect to get a hit! If I don’t expect to get a hit, I have no right getting in the batter’s box.”
Whenever we pray, we need to have “great expectations.” We need to have that same attitude in prayer that Pete Rose had in hitting. When we go to the Lord in prayer, it is important that we expect an answer. And if we pray according to His will, He will hear us and give us whatever we expect.
Faith for the Christian is believing that we will get what we do not see. The reward of faith is seeing what we believe.
Prayer: Father, I want to have complete confidence that when I pray You will hear me. I know that I can do all things through You when I pray according to Your will and Your Word. Give me a faith that is strong so that when I pray I can expect my prayers to be answered as I wait patiently in Your presence: in Christ’s name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Romans 8:28
Today's video seed: "The Water Bearer"
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
A Touching Experience
Years ago many people believed that if you touched the beard of a man from whom you desired a favor, it would be granted. The Bible contains the story of a woman who believed that if she touched the robe of Jesus she would be granted healing. For twelve years she had sought a cure to her illness. She had exhausted all of her resources. Then she heard about the miraculous power of Jesus to heal the sick.
Quietly slipping through the crowd, she drew close to Him. When she could, she reached out and touched the hem of His robe believing that she would be well. And she was healed instantly. Jesus realized what had happened and wanted her to have faith in Him, not His robe. Quickly He asked, “Who touched my garments?” The woman came to Jesus with fear in her heart, fell before Him and admitted what she had done. Graciously He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well. Go in faith and be healed of your disease.”
Whenever we have a need or come to a problem that is beyond us, we need to reach out in faith and “touch the Lord.”
Prayer: Dear God, I want the same kind of faith that this woman had. Give me the faith to reach out to You in such a faith-believing way: In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Mark 5: 25-34
Quietly slipping through the crowd, she drew close to Him. When she could, she reached out and touched the hem of His robe believing that she would be well. And she was healed instantly. Jesus realized what had happened and wanted her to have faith in Him, not His robe. Quickly He asked, “Who touched my garments?” The woman came to Jesus with fear in her heart, fell before Him and admitted what she had done. Graciously He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well. Go in faith and be healed of your disease.”
Whenever we have a need or come to a problem that is beyond us, we need to reach out in faith and “touch the Lord.”
Prayer: Dear God, I want the same kind of faith that this woman had. Give me the faith to reach out to You in such a faith-believing way: In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Mark 5: 25-34
Today's video devotional: "Failure, A Step To Success"
Monday, March 15, 2010
Wait Upon The Lord
Before every battle, Napoleon would spend time in his tent alone. Then he would summon his commanders to come to him one by one. As they approached him, he would look at them and they would look back at him. They would then shake hands and go out to battle to conquer the enemy.
God and Moses had a similar relationship. God had the force and Moses had the faith. What a winning combination – God’s power, our problems! Every time we face any task after we have been in the presence of God and leave with faith in His power, we can be conquerors in His name!
We read in His Word, “They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength…they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.” Teach us Lord to wait in Your presence for Your strength.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to wait upon You and to depend on You for every battle I face in life. I believe that You can make me more than a conqueror, but it is only when I trust completely in You and on You. Increase my faith in Jesus Christ, my Saviour and Lord, in whose name I pray. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Isaiah 40:31.
God and Moses had a similar relationship. God had the force and Moses had the faith. What a winning combination – God’s power, our problems! Every time we face any task after we have been in the presence of God and leave with faith in His power, we can be conquerors in His name!
We read in His Word, “They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength…they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.” Teach us Lord to wait in Your presence for Your strength.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to wait upon You and to depend on You for every battle I face in life. I believe that You can make me more than a conqueror, but it is only when I trust completely in You and on You. Increase my faith in Jesus Christ, my Saviour and Lord, in whose name I pray. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Isaiah 40:31.
Today's video seed: "He Maketh Me To Lie Down"
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
The Mouse Swallower
A biology professor kept a rattlesnake caged in his laboratory. Whenever he fed it in front of his class, the students watched with fascination. One day he said, “I find it interesting that my snake gets more attention than I do.” “You'd get more attention,” said a freshman, “if you swallowed a mouse.” If we read Psalm 23:1, we realize that we do not have to swallow a mouse to get God’s attention.
The Psalmist boldly declared, “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.” When we ask the Lord to become our Shepherd, our personal Saviour, we enter into a personal relationship with Him and life changes. It is like the small child, who, when quoting this verse said, “The Lord is my shepherd, I have all that I need.” The Great Shepherd has given us His Word that He will give us all that we need – beginning with His attention to the details of our life. As we place ourselves under His care, we have His Word that His “goodness and mercy will follow us all the days of our lives” and someday we will dwell in His house forever.
Prayer: It is good, Father, to know that we have Your attention, and that nothing in our lives escapes Your sight. Fill my life with Your grace and goodness, Your presence and power: in Christ’s name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Psalm 23:1,6
The Psalmist boldly declared, “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.” When we ask the Lord to become our Shepherd, our personal Saviour, we enter into a personal relationship with Him and life changes. It is like the small child, who, when quoting this verse said, “The Lord is my shepherd, I have all that I need.” The Great Shepherd has given us His Word that He will give us all that we need – beginning with His attention to the details of our life. As we place ourselves under His care, we have His Word that His “goodness and mercy will follow us all the days of our lives” and someday we will dwell in His house forever.
Prayer: It is good, Father, to know that we have Your attention, and that nothing in our lives escapes Your sight. Fill my life with Your grace and goodness, Your presence and power: in Christ’s name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Psalm 23:1,6
Today's video seed: "Faith Or Fear"
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Which Way Is America?
During World War Two, a young boy was sent from England to the United States for safety. While crossing the ocean, the ship he was on was hit by a torpedo and he was thrown into the water. A rescue boat came and lifted him out of the water. As they lifted him to safety, his first question was not “Why?” It was “Which way is America?” What an important lesson!
All of us have dreams that someone has torpedoed. We have all experienced the feelings of being “lost at sea” at one time or another. When events such as these occur, we have a choice. We can look back in bitterness or look ahead in anticipation. With God, no one or nothing is hopeless. During a difficult time in his life, the Apostle Paul said, “We get knocked down.” He quickly added, “But we get up again and again and keep going!” Our faith in God will increase during the storms of life if we look to Him for His help and strength. The events of life that would overwhelm us will be replaced by “the God of all comfort” Who will wrap us gently in His arms.
Prayer: Father, as the storms of life swirl around me, and as frightening waves sweep over me, I pray that the peace of Your presence will assure me that You are with me: in Your name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Matthew 19:16-26
All of us have dreams that someone has torpedoed. We have all experienced the feelings of being “lost at sea” at one time or another. When events such as these occur, we have a choice. We can look back in bitterness or look ahead in anticipation. With God, no one or nothing is hopeless. During a difficult time in his life, the Apostle Paul said, “We get knocked down.” He quickly added, “But we get up again and again and keep going!” Our faith in God will increase during the storms of life if we look to Him for His help and strength. The events of life that would overwhelm us will be replaced by “the God of all comfort” Who will wrap us gently in His arms.
Prayer: Father, as the storms of life swirl around me, and as frightening waves sweep over me, I pray that the peace of Your presence will assure me that You are with me: in Your name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Matthew 19:16-26
Today's video seed: "The Purpose of the Flag"
Monday, March 8, 2010
Which Way Is America?
During World War Two, a young boy was sent from England to the United States for safety. While crossing the ocean, the ship he was on was hit by a torpedo and he was thrown into the water. A rescue boat came and lifted him out of the water. As they lifted him to safety, his first question was not “Why?” It was “Which way is America?” What an important lesson!
All of us have dreams that someone has torpedoed. We have all experienced the feelings of being “lost at sea” at one time or another. When events such as these occur, we have a choice. We can look back in bitterness or look ahead in anticipation. With God, no one or nothing is hopeless. During a difficult time in his life, the Apostle Paul said, “We get knocked down.” He quickly added, “But we get up again and again and keep going!” Our faith in God will increase during the storms of life if we look to Him for His help and strength. The events of life that would overwhelm us will be replaced by “the God of all comfort” Who will wrap us gently in His arms.
Prayer: Father, as the storms of life swirl around me, and as frightening waves sweep over me, I pray that the peace of Your presence will assure me that You are with me: in Your name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Matthew 19:16-26
All of us have dreams that someone has torpedoed. We have all experienced the feelings of being “lost at sea” at one time or another. When events such as these occur, we have a choice. We can look back in bitterness or look ahead in anticipation. With God, no one or nothing is hopeless. During a difficult time in his life, the Apostle Paul said, “We get knocked down.” He quickly added, “But we get up again and again and keep going!” Our faith in God will increase during the storms of life if we look to Him for His help and strength. The events of life that would overwhelm us will be replaced by “the God of all comfort” Who will wrap us gently in His arms.
Prayer: Father, as the storms of life swirl around me, and as frightening waves sweep over me, I pray that the peace of Your presence will assure me that You are with me: in Your name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Matthew 19:16-26
Friday, March 5, 2010
From Fear To Fortune
Several years ago a magazine reported that an organization offered $5000 to anyone who could capture a wolf alive and bring it to them. Reading about this opportunity, Sam and Jed decided to go on a wolf hunt! The first night, they put up their tent, got into their sleeping bags and went to sleep. Sam was suddenly awakened by the sound of wolves howling nearby. “Wake up, Jed,” he cried. “We’re rich!” What an attitude.
At one time or another, it seems as though the “wolves of life” surround us. We hear their cries and sense their presence. But that which would frighten us and bring fear into our lives can be captured and brought under God’s control. There are times when we must look to the One who will bring us victory over the circumstances that surround us, protection from the fears that would beset us and peace when the storms of life would destroy us. We will always be victorious when we put our trust in a God Who loves us and will deliver us from all evil. In Him, we will find the riches of life.
Prayer: Dear Jesus, help me to think thoughts that enable me to see that which brings the riches of Your promises into my life. May I look to You to find that which is eternal, important, significant and purposeful: in Your name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Philippians 4:8
At one time or another, it seems as though the “wolves of life” surround us. We hear their cries and sense their presence. But that which would frighten us and bring fear into our lives can be captured and brought under God’s control. There are times when we must look to the One who will bring us victory over the circumstances that surround us, protection from the fears that would beset us and peace when the storms of life would destroy us. We will always be victorious when we put our trust in a God Who loves us and will deliver us from all evil. In Him, we will find the riches of life.
Prayer: Dear Jesus, help me to think thoughts that enable me to see that which brings the riches of Your promises into my life. May I look to You to find that which is eternal, important, significant and purposeful: in Your name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Philippians 4:8
Thursday, March 4, 2010
A Leap of Faith
The African impala is an interesting animal. It can jump ten feet high and a distance of thirty feet. But if it is in a zoo, enclosed within a wall that is three feet high, it will remain there. It will not jump if it cannot see where its feet
will land. Unfortunately, there are many who believe in a god who behaves just like that: they are fenced in by fear and will not take the leap of faith to the freedom that God provides.
will land. Unfortunately, there are many who believe in a god who behaves just like that: they are fenced in by fear and will not take the leap of faith to the freedom that God provides.
God is calling men and women to trust in Him and to become willing to make a complete commitment
to Him. His desire is that we make a reckless abandonment to Him and say, “Lord Jesus,
have Your way with me. I want to be who You want me to be. I want to do what You want me to do. I want to go where You want me to go. And I will do whatever You want me to do no matter what it costs me. I belong to You and that is all that matters.”
Prayer: Father, there are times when my faith is not the size of a mustard seed. It seems small and insignificant. I would ask that You give me the faith that I do not have that I may learn to trust You in all things. May I never allow my faith to fence me in so that I will not attempt great things for You. Help me to believe that all things are possible through You: in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Hebrews 11: 8-9
Today's video seed: "Powder Marks"
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Seeing What You Have
Charley Boswell was an outstanding football player for the University of Alabama. He also excelled in baseball and dreamed of one day becoming a professional baseball player. Unfortunately, he lost his eyesight during the Second World War. However, losing his eyesight did not destroy him, it drove him onward. He became the National Blind Golf Champion seventeen times!
One day he said, “I never count what I have lost, I only count what I have.” When we enter a time of difficulty and distress we can rise to the challenge and become a champion or we can cringe and become a coward. When we face hardships and heartaches, we can become better if we have faith and believe that God is at work in our lives. Having faith in God will enable us to turn what could be a tragedy into a triumph, a problem into a solution and what seems to be the end into a new beginning.
Prayer: Father, please help me to see the best in everything. I want to become thankful for all that You have blessed me with and for everything that You bring into my life. I know that You will bring good out of everything that comes into my life if I trust in You: in Your name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Mark 11:22
One day he said, “I never count what I have lost, I only count what I have.” When we enter a time of difficulty and distress we can rise to the challenge and become a champion or we can cringe and become a coward. When we face hardships and heartaches, we can become better if we have faith and believe that God is at work in our lives. Having faith in God will enable us to turn what could be a tragedy into a triumph, a problem into a solution and what seems to be the end into a new beginning.
Prayer: Father, please help me to see the best in everything. I want to become thankful for all that You have blessed me with and for everything that You bring into my life. I know that You will bring good out of everything that comes into my life if I trust in You: in Your name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Mark 11:22
Today's video seed: "A Good Wife"
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Never Too Old
As the Countess of Huntington lay dying, she said, “My work is completed, and I have nothing to do but to go to my Father.” Sarah, a woman of faith and courage whose story is found in the Old Testament, believed that her work was nearing completion. One day God spoke to her husband who was 100 years old and said to him, “Sarah will give you a son!” When Sarah heard this, she laughed because she was 90 years old. God had a very special plan for her in her old age even if she did not think it possible. God knew that her work was not done. And just as God said, she gave birth to a son and named him Isaac. Sarah is an example of someone who trusted God, and became known as a woman of great faith.
There are days when each of us comes to the conclusion that our best days have passed us by. But God never comes to that conclusion. His Word reminds us that the best is always in front of us and that we can always do more for Him and through Him. Our age does not matter. What matters is for us to always believe that God has something great for us to do.
Prayer: Father, I want to accomplish all that You have called me to do. Give me a Sarah-like faith to believe that each day brings a new beginning to serve You: in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Hebrews 11:8-11
There are days when each of us comes to the conclusion that our best days have passed us by. But God never comes to that conclusion. His Word reminds us that the best is always in front of us and that we can always do more for Him and through Him. Our age does not matter. What matters is for us to always believe that God has something great for us to do.
Prayer: Father, I want to accomplish all that You have called me to do. Give me a Sarah-like faith to believe that each day brings a new beginning to serve You: in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Scripture for Today: Hebrews 11:8-11
Today's video seed: "Have You Seen God?"
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