Readings:
Isaiah 50:4-9a
Psalm 70
Hebrews 12:1-3
John 13:21-32
Reflection
Well, this is great. I love Isaiah! I'm right there with him. I will be vindicated. My enemies will be destroyed. Yes! There is justice for me against former employers, co-workers,so called "friends". I am victorious!!!!!
But wait, then there is the book John. Who am I in his story? Surely, I am NOT Judas! Well, unfortunately, I AM! "Who was the guilty? Who brought this upon Jesus? Alas, MY Sin……crucified Jesus." All those numerous, daily contradictions, where I act outwardly one way and yet conceal hurtful thoughts inwardly, all convict and crucify Jesus.
As much as I would like to think that I will receive justice someday; that the people in my past that I consider to have wronged me will be punished. I am struck with the harsh reality that I deserve the same fate as I would wish upon my "enemies." However, in still sharper relief, I cling to the promise that Jesus died for the entire world, not just the righteous, but for Judas, for me, as well. "Therefore, Jesus, think on my pity and my love unswerving, not my deserving."
Prayer
Almighty God, your Son, our Savior suffered at human hands and endured the shame of the cross. Grant that we may walk in the way of his cross and find it the way of life and peace, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,now and forever. AMEN
Daily Devotions written by a Pastor, who desires to share God with the world. God desires for a personal relationship with you and has a great adventure for you as you follow in step with Him.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Judas
Readings
Isaiah 49:1-6
Psalm 49:1-6
John 13:21-38
Reflection
Sometimes people who live close together can be sources of great sorrow for one another. When Jesus chose His twelve apostles, Judas was one of them. Judas is called the betrayer. According to the literal meaning of the Greek word, a betrayer is someone who hands another over to suffering.
Perhaps there is something of a betrayer in us?
Maybe each of us has handed over someone to suffering somehow, somewhere, mostly without intending or even knowing it. When we are willing to confess that we had handed those we love over to suffering, even against our best intentions, we will be more ready to forgive those who, mostly against their intentions, are the causes of our pain.
How often have we been like Judas, rejecting the call to love and entering the darkness, or like Peter, lying to protect our own skins.
Let us be willing to ask forgiveness and renew our faithfulness to the Lord who walked alone, deserted by His closest friends.
Isaiah 49:1-6
Psalm 49:1-6
John 13:21-38
Reflection
Sometimes people who live close together can be sources of great sorrow for one another. When Jesus chose His twelve apostles, Judas was one of them. Judas is called the betrayer. According to the literal meaning of the Greek word, a betrayer is someone who hands another over to suffering.
Perhaps there is something of a betrayer in us?
Maybe each of us has handed over someone to suffering somehow, somewhere, mostly without intending or even knowing it. When we are willing to confess that we had handed those we love over to suffering, even against our best intentions, we will be more ready to forgive those who, mostly against their intentions, are the causes of our pain.
How often have we been like Judas, rejecting the call to love and entering the darkness, or like Peter, lying to protect our own skins.
Let us be willing to ask forgiveness and renew our faithfulness to the Lord who walked alone, deserted by His closest friends.
Monday, March 29, 2010
"You do not always have me,"
Holy Week for Monday
Readings
John 12:1-11
Isaiah 42:1-9
Hebrews 9:11-15
Reflection
"You always have the poor with you, but you do not always have me." (John 12:8) Jesus clearly meant these words to praise Mary, the sister of Lazarus, for taking action to worship Jesus while she could. In no way did he mean to demean the urgency of caring for the poor; indeed, the lion's share of Jesus' ministry took place among the poor and outcast.
"You do not always have me," Jesus said. Mary knew this. She didn't put off for tomorrow or next week anointing Jesus' feet, a loving action in a day when people spent most of their time on their feet. She did what she could, when she could.
As I was looking through the Word for something that might help us look forward to Easter. Not about a bunny and eggs!! But about Christ. Those around Him and those who were following Him had no idea that He would be dying; even though He spoke about His up coming death to them.
You and I tend to act as if we will live forever and will therefore have unlimited time with those we love and unlimited opportunities to do what is most important.
On contrary most people die without warning. Every day someone is dying without knowing the love of Christ.
I am sure you are like me, and have lost a love one that we were close to. In His last days, Jesus saying, "You do not always have me," I think we should remember those words, "You do not always have me"! Think about this when you see a loved one, or maybe someone who is lost.
How can you today find a way to express your love and service to Jesus knowing you were dying?
Here is something I heard a long time ago...ponder this today, and see if you change, maybe you will have a new urgency to reach the lost?
"In the morning you put on your own shoes, however at night the undertaker could be taking your shoes off"
Prayer:
O God, your Son chose the path that led to pain before joy and to the cross before glory. Plant His cross in our hearts, so that in its power and love we may come at last to joy and glory, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord, who lives and reigns with you now and forever. Amen.
Readings
John 12:1-11
Isaiah 42:1-9
Hebrews 9:11-15
Reflection
"You always have the poor with you, but you do not always have me." (John 12:8) Jesus clearly meant these words to praise Mary, the sister of Lazarus, for taking action to worship Jesus while she could. In no way did he mean to demean the urgency of caring for the poor; indeed, the lion's share of Jesus' ministry took place among the poor and outcast.
"You do not always have me," Jesus said. Mary knew this. She didn't put off for tomorrow or next week anointing Jesus' feet, a loving action in a day when people spent most of their time on their feet. She did what she could, when she could.
As I was looking through the Word for something that might help us look forward to Easter. Not about a bunny and eggs!! But about Christ. Those around Him and those who were following Him had no idea that He would be dying; even though He spoke about His up coming death to them.
You and I tend to act as if we will live forever and will therefore have unlimited time with those we love and unlimited opportunities to do what is most important.
On contrary most people die without warning. Every day someone is dying without knowing the love of Christ.
I am sure you are like me, and have lost a love one that we were close to. In His last days, Jesus saying, "You do not always have me," I think we should remember those words, "You do not always have me"! Think about this when you see a loved one, or maybe someone who is lost.
How can you today find a way to express your love and service to Jesus knowing you were dying?
Here is something I heard a long time ago...ponder this today, and see if you change, maybe you will have a new urgency to reach the lost?
"In the morning you put on your own shoes, however at night the undertaker could be taking your shoes off"
Prayer:
O God, your Son chose the path that led to pain before joy and to the cross before glory. Plant His cross in our hearts, so that in its power and love we may come at last to joy and glory, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord, who lives and reigns with you now and forever. Amen.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Save Us!
Save Us!
Save Us! (Hosanna, a Hebrew expression meaning "God, Save us!")*
Matthew 21:1-17 NIV
*(for this Palm Sunday devotion I am using, "save us" instead of Hosanna.)
This was a strange procession. A guy on a donkey. (No doubt the scoffers likened Him to that poor animal.) Tagging along with Him were a bunch of fishermen, rural herdsmen, and even (shudder to think) a taxman. A crowd, mostly of just plain folks, got into it. They'd apparently heard about this Jesus of Galilee (v. 11), and had a high regard for Him. Maybe this was the man who'd save them from the hands of the Roman conquerors. Maybe this was the man who'd save them from the effects of a chasm that set the keepers of the religious-system Temple apart from the ordinary Jew. Maybe this was the man who'd save them from their own frustration and loss of hope in the God who chose them.
So they laid palm branches before Him as He went in, and cried out to their (potential) hero, "Save us!"
And His first deeds took Him along that course just fine, too. He goes to the Temple grounds, to the money changers and the salesmen. It was a real need within a sacrificial system to have ritually-clean animals available to those whose raw poverty or citified lifestyle let them have none of their own. But what happened is the same thing that always happens when the customer is powerless to argue: not only does the price go up, but a system is created to extract much more through the exchange of currency. Jesus struck at this about as directly as He could.(v's.12-13)
Then, Jesus did the sort of thing He had always done: He went around the Temple area preaching and healing the sick. (They must've gathered there desperately in the belief that the God who lived in the Temple might heal them.) And children came out, continuing to call on the heroic descendant of David, "Save us! Save us!" They all had been without hope for so long.
If they only knew just how big a task it would be to save them. Or how far God would go to make it happen. The cries of praise would give way to the call for blood, and it would be shed. But not just yet. It was time to celebrate what could be.
Father, you have indeed heard the cries of your people, and answered them in an unexpected way. Help us to bear witness to what you have done. Amen.
Matthew 21:1-17 NIV
*(for this Palm Sunday devotion I am using, "save us" instead of Hosanna.)
This was a strange procession. A guy on a donkey. (No doubt the scoffers likened Him to that poor animal.) Tagging along with Him were a bunch of fishermen, rural herdsmen, and even (shudder to think) a taxman. A crowd, mostly of just plain folks, got into it. They'd apparently heard about this Jesus of Galilee (v. 11), and had a high regard for Him. Maybe this was the man who'd save them from the hands of the Roman conquerors. Maybe this was the man who'd save them from the effects of a chasm that set the keepers of the religious-system Temple apart from the ordinary Jew. Maybe this was the man who'd save them from their own frustration and loss of hope in the God who chose them.
So they laid palm branches before Him as He went in, and cried out to their (potential) hero, "Save us!"
And His first deeds took Him along that course just fine, too. He goes to the Temple grounds, to the money changers and the salesmen. It was a real need within a sacrificial system to have ritually-clean animals available to those whose raw poverty or citified lifestyle let them have none of their own. But what happened is the same thing that always happens when the customer is powerless to argue: not only does the price go up, but a system is created to extract much more through the exchange of currency. Jesus struck at this about as directly as He could.(v's.12-13)
Then, Jesus did the sort of thing He had always done: He went around the Temple area preaching and healing the sick. (They must've gathered there desperately in the belief that the God who lived in the Temple might heal them.) And children came out, continuing to call on the heroic descendant of David, "Save us! Save us!" They all had been without hope for so long.
If they only knew just how big a task it would be to save them. Or how far God would go to make it happen. The cries of praise would give way to the call for blood, and it would be shed. But not just yet. It was time to celebrate what could be.
Father, you have indeed heard the cries of your people, and answered them in an unexpected way. Help us to bear witness to what you have done. Amen.
Saturday, March 27, 2010
It's Saturday, here's something different for you
Would you rather...
consume, in one sitting, 400 Snickers candy bars
OR
60 hard boiled eggs?
How many of each of these have you eaten in one sitting:
Amount:
__________ pieces of pizza
__________ hot dogs
__________ Gummi bears
___________ You name the food:________
Have fun! I will be looking forward for many of you responding. Please!
Thanks.
consume, in one sitting, 400 Snickers candy bars
OR
60 hard boiled eggs?
How many of each of these have you eaten in one sitting:
Amount:
__________ pieces of pizza
__________ hot dogs
__________ Gummi bears
___________ You name the food:________
Have fun! I will be looking forward for many of you responding. Please!
Thanks.
Friday, March 26, 2010
Discovering God's Character
In the past, while working with teens. We would read the book of Proverbs for a monthly devotion. The book of Proverbs has thirty one chapters. Thus we would take a chapter each day and we would, read it, discuss it, and apply it to our lives. Now a lot of years later...I noticed how God is described in many of it's chapters.
As we know Proverbs is a book about wise living. It often focuses on a person's response and attitude toward God, who is the source of wisdom. And a number of proverbs point out aspects of God's character. Knowing God helps us on the way to wisdom.
God...
is aware of all that happens-15:3
knows all people-15:11;16:2;21:2
is the maker of all things-16:4
controls all things-16:33;21:30
is a strong fortress-18:10
rescues the Christ-like from danger-11:8,21
rewards the godly-11:31
blesses good people, condemns the wicked-12:2
delights in our prayers-15:8,29
loves those who obey Him-11:27;15:9-10;16:20;22:12
cares for the poor, sick, and the widows-15:25;22:22-23
purifies hearts-17:3
hates evil-17:5;21:27;28:9
-------------------------------------
Our response should be....
to reverence God-10:27;14:26-27;15:16;16:6;19:23;28:14
obey God's Word-13:13;19:16
to please God-16:7;20:12;21:3
to trust God-22:17-19;29:25
As we know Proverbs is a book about wise living. It often focuses on a person's response and attitude toward God, who is the source of wisdom. And a number of proverbs point out aspects of God's character. Knowing God helps us on the way to wisdom.
God...
is aware of all that happens-15:3
knows all people-15:11;16:2;21:2
is the maker of all things-16:4
controls all things-16:33;21:30
is a strong fortress-18:10
rescues the Christ-like from danger-11:8,21
rewards the godly-11:31
blesses good people, condemns the wicked-12:2
delights in our prayers-15:8,29
loves those who obey Him-11:27;15:9-10;16:20;22:12
cares for the poor, sick, and the widows-15:25;22:22-23
purifies hearts-17:3
hates evil-17:5;21:27;28:9
-------------------------------------
Our response should be....
to reverence God-10:27;14:26-27;15:16;16:6;19:23;28:14
obey God's Word-13:13;19:16
to please God-16:7;20:12;21:3
to trust God-22:17-19;29:25
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Just a thought
Today we have seen so much change in the world, however I think there has been an overwhelming change in America. The great land of freedom has become the land that government controls!!
God has been pushed asided and replaced by our so called leaders.
Ok you have read my thoughts now.
What do you think?
God has been pushed asided and replaced by our so called leaders.
Ok you have read my thoughts now.
What do you think?
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
HE IS THERE...
Search for the Lord and for His strength, and keep searching. Psalm 105: 4
If God seems far away, keep searching for Him. God rewards those who sincerely look for Him (Hebrews 11:6). Jesus promised, "keep on looking, and you will find" (Matthew 7:7). David suggested a valuable way to search out God- become familiar with the way He has helped His people in the past. The Bible records the history of God's people. In searching it's pages we will discover a loving God who is waiting for us to find Him.
Aren't you glad that God can be found?
Have you ever went to leave, and were unable to find your keys? So you searched everywhere to find them, true?
Well sometimes we need to search for God in the same manner, never stopping until found.
Happy searching...
If God seems far away, keep searching for Him. God rewards those who sincerely look for Him (Hebrews 11:6). Jesus promised, "keep on looking, and you will find" (Matthew 7:7). David suggested a valuable way to search out God- become familiar with the way He has helped His people in the past. The Bible records the history of God's people. In searching it's pages we will discover a loving God who is waiting for us to find Him.
Aren't you glad that God can be found?
Have you ever went to leave, and were unable to find your keys? So you searched everywhere to find them, true?
Well sometimes we need to search for God in the same manner, never stopping until found.
Happy searching...
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Salt and Light
You can make a difference!
Matthew 5:13-16
SALT
Vs. 13
Salt- Term used to show difference a Christian can make in the world.
Uses for Salt:
Purifying Agent
Our world is lowering standards- honesty; perseverance, diligence, and morals need to be restored. The Christian must hold true to all high standards and must be kept pure and untarnished.
Preserves
Keeps things from going bad and keeps things fresh. Christian salt preserves from corruptions.
Lends Flavor to Things
Food without salt is sometimes bland and sickening. Christianity is to life what salt is to food.
Christ lends flavor to life.
We are called to be the salt of the earth.
-Keep Pure
-Influencing our fellow man
-Holding standards high
- - - - - - - - - - - - -
Light
Vs. 14&15
Be the light!
In John 9:5 Jesus is the light. He demands nothing more than for us to be like Him.
1) A light is to be seen - back in the bible times, 2 or 3 candles would light a house. Therefore Christianity is a thing to be seen and noticed.
There is no such thing as secret discipleship for either the secrecy destroys the discipleship or the discipleship destroys the secrecy.
Visible to all not only in the church but everywhere. (Further study--Luke 8:16)
2) A light is a guide - A lighthouse or a flashlight gives sight so you can see. It guides your feet in the dark so you don't stumble and fall. As, light we are to make way clear to others.
3) A Warning Light - Must let fellow man know sometimes when harm is coming or when they are maybe getting into trouble. This is hard sometimes but we are called to do this and is sometimes necessary.
Decision making
Are you apart of the light and salt?
Ephesians 5:8-16-Focus on what light can do for us.
Goodness, righteousness, and truth.
Acts 26:18--What Christ is doing for you.
1. Open our eyes
2. Turn us from darkness
3. Transfers power of Satan to God
Forgiveness of Sins!!
BE THE SALT & LIGHT!!!!
Matthew 5:13-16
SALT
Vs. 13
Salt- Term used to show difference a Christian can make in the world.
Uses for Salt:
Purifying Agent
Our world is lowering standards- honesty; perseverance, diligence, and morals need to be restored. The Christian must hold true to all high standards and must be kept pure and untarnished.
Preserves
Keeps things from going bad and keeps things fresh. Christian salt preserves from corruptions.
Lends Flavor to Things
Food without salt is sometimes bland and sickening. Christianity is to life what salt is to food.
Christ lends flavor to life.
We are called to be the salt of the earth.
-Keep Pure
-Influencing our fellow man
-Holding standards high
- - - - - - - - - - - - -
Light
Vs. 14&15
Be the light!
In John 9:5 Jesus is the light. He demands nothing more than for us to be like Him.
1) A light is to be seen - back in the bible times, 2 or 3 candles would light a house. Therefore Christianity is a thing to be seen and noticed.
There is no such thing as secret discipleship for either the secrecy destroys the discipleship or the discipleship destroys the secrecy.
Visible to all not only in the church but everywhere. (Further study--Luke 8:16)
2) A light is a guide - A lighthouse or a flashlight gives sight so you can see. It guides your feet in the dark so you don't stumble and fall. As, light we are to make way clear to others.
3) A Warning Light - Must let fellow man know sometimes when harm is coming or when they are maybe getting into trouble. This is hard sometimes but we are called to do this and is sometimes necessary.
Decision making
Are you apart of the light and salt?
Ephesians 5:8-16-Focus on what light can do for us.
Goodness, righteousness, and truth.
Acts 26:18--What Christ is doing for you.
1. Open our eyes
2. Turn us from darkness
3. Transfers power of Satan to God
Forgiveness of Sins!!
BE THE SALT & LIGHT!!!!
Monday, March 22, 2010
Endure Anything
Well, today for me it has been really rough and difficult. I had a doctors appointment. She is a great doctor! However she has decided to send me to a pain management doctor. For you see, my pain has gotten worse. I really hate pain!! Just going to doctors, and coming home, is so painful. Getting out of the van, after returning home, I almost passed out!
I am now back on the couch, praying for some relief. After praying for a while, I open my Bible, and this is what I first saw... " I am willing to endure anything if it will bring salvation and eternal glory in Christ Jesus to those God has chosen." 2 Timothy 2:10
Wow...the one part that stood out for me is, "ENDURE ANYTHING"...so does that mean, I must endure this never ending, disabling pain, so that others will see Christ in me? And in doing so they will come to know Christ? What is your take on this?
I realize we should always look at this passage as whole. So I did that... it is dealing with Timothy in prison. And how he had to endure a lot for serving Christ. I also believe us Christians need to endure a lot more. Those of us here in the USA have it way to easy! Those serving Christ outside the USA, must endure a lot more then we will.
Let me know what you think. Have I looked at this wrong?
What have you endured in the past for the sake of Jesus Christ? Or what are you enduring right now?
Is it (endure) never ending, will we always face something in our journey with Christ? Big or Small.
I realize there are those who rather not post any comments, However for those who don't mind leaving a comment, please do so! I would love to know what you all think about my postings. Thanks for any feed back you can give me.
I am now back on the couch, praying for some relief. After praying for a while, I open my Bible, and this is what I first saw... " I am willing to endure anything if it will bring salvation and eternal glory in Christ Jesus to those God has chosen." 2 Timothy 2:10
Wow...the one part that stood out for me is, "ENDURE ANYTHING"...so does that mean, I must endure this never ending, disabling pain, so that others will see Christ in me? And in doing so they will come to know Christ? What is your take on this?
I realize we should always look at this passage as whole. So I did that... it is dealing with Timothy in prison. And how he had to endure a lot for serving Christ. I also believe us Christians need to endure a lot more. Those of us here in the USA have it way to easy! Those serving Christ outside the USA, must endure a lot more then we will.
Let me know what you think. Have I looked at this wrong?
What have you endured in the past for the sake of Jesus Christ? Or what are you enduring right now?
Is it (endure) never ending, will we always face something in our journey with Christ? Big or Small.
I realize there are those who rather not post any comments, However for those who don't mind leaving a comment, please do so! I would love to know what you all think about my postings. Thanks for any feed back you can give me.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Jesus...is He Truthful? Or a Liar?
Who is Jesus? How would you answer this question? How would other people answer?
Matthew 16:15
People think Jesus is all kinds of things. Take me for example, To me Jesus as my best friend! This just one example I could go on forever.
Again I ask you, who is Jesus to you?
In fact, some people say Jesus is a liar.
Some say He’s a lunatic.
Some say a loser.
And some say He’s Lord.
Some of you believe me because you know I am a person of truthfulness. Also because you know me very well. And you know I’d never lie to you.
Some of you don’t believe, I am a truthful person, because you don’t know me at all.
What makes a person truthful? What makes a person a liar?
Have you ever been lied to? I have and they were my “friend”. Ouch!!
I know someone that is always truthful and never lies…
His name is Jesus…
Some people don’t know Jesus very well today, and so they might say Jesus is a liar.
Do you think a court of law could convict Jesus of being a liar?
Let us look at Jesus on trial …
Matthew 26: 57-60
Jesus before the Council
57 Then the people who had arrested Jesus led him to the home of Caiaphas, the high priest, where the teachers of religious law and the elders had gathered. 58 Meanwhile, Peter followed him at a distance and came to the high priest’s courtyard. He went in and sat with the guards and waited to see how it would all end.
59 Inside, the leading priests and the entire high council were trying to find witnesses who would lie about Jesus, so they could put him to death. 60 But even though they found many who agreed to give false witness, they could not use anyone’s testimony.
Think about how you feel when someone lies to you...
Have no fear Jesus is for you and will never lie. What He say’s, He will do...You can trust Him completely...If have a personal relationship with Jesus, There is coming a day, that He will stand in your defense, against Satan and all his lies.
Jesus is not a lair and what He told his disciples was and is the Truth...then, today, tomorrow, and for all eternity.
Jesus Suffered on the cross for our sins
Died on that cross for our pardon
He rose on the third and then ascended back to His father
In doing this He promised to send us a comforter and a Helper
This of course is the Holy Spirit.
Matthew 16:15
People think Jesus is all kinds of things. Take me for example, To me Jesus as my best friend! This just one example I could go on forever.
Again I ask you, who is Jesus to you?
In fact, some people say Jesus is a liar.
Some say He’s a lunatic.
Some say a loser.
And some say He’s Lord.
Some of you believe me because you know I am a person of truthfulness. Also because you know me very well. And you know I’d never lie to you.
Some of you don’t believe, I am a truthful person, because you don’t know me at all.
What makes a person truthful? What makes a person a liar?
Have you ever been lied to? I have and they were my “friend”. Ouch!!
I know someone that is always truthful and never lies…
His name is Jesus…
Some people don’t know Jesus very well today, and so they might say Jesus is a liar.
Do you think a court of law could convict Jesus of being a liar?
Let us look at Jesus on trial …
Matthew 26: 57-60
Jesus before the Council
57 Then the people who had arrested Jesus led him to the home of Caiaphas, the high priest, where the teachers of religious law and the elders had gathered. 58 Meanwhile, Peter followed him at a distance and came to the high priest’s courtyard. He went in and sat with the guards and waited to see how it would all end.
59 Inside, the leading priests and the entire high council were trying to find witnesses who would lie about Jesus, so they could put him to death. 60 But even though they found many who agreed to give false witness, they could not use anyone’s testimony.
Think about how you feel when someone lies to you...
Have no fear Jesus is for you and will never lie. What He say’s, He will do...You can trust Him completely...If have a personal relationship with Jesus, There is coming a day, that He will stand in your defense, against Satan and all his lies.
Jesus is not a lair and what He told his disciples was and is the Truth...then, today, tomorrow, and for all eternity.
Jesus Suffered on the cross for our sins
Died on that cross for our pardon
He rose on the third and then ascended back to His father
In doing this He promised to send us a comforter and a Helper
This of course is the Holy Spirit.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
STRENGTH
Even the strongest people get tired at times, but God's power and strength never diminish. He is never too tired or too busy to help and listen. His strength is our source of strength. When you feel all of life crushing you and you cannot go another step, remember that you can ask God to renew your strength and He will do it!!
For more information on this, check out the following...
Isaiah 40:27-31 also 41:10 NLT
For more information on this, check out the following...
Isaiah 40:27-31 also 41:10 NLT
Friday, March 19, 2010
Be Strong and Stand Firm
Be strong with the Lord's mighty power. Put on all of God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies and tricks of the Devil. For we are not fighting against people made of flesh and blood, but against the evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against those mighty powers of darkness who rule this world, and against wicked spirits in the heavenly realms.
Use every piece of God's armor to resist the enemy in the time of evil, so that after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the sturdy belt of truth and the body armor of God's righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News, so that you will be fully prepared. In every battle you will need faith as your shield to stop the fiery arrows aimed at you by Satan. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Pray at all times and on every occasion in the power of the Holy Spirit. Stay alert and be presistent in your prayers for all...
Ephesians 6:10-18 NLT
Wow...If someone is wondering how they are going to face today and or tomorrow, this my friends is the perfect way to face the day and to dress for the day. As you read this passage, notice how we are in a battle, We have arrows aimed right at us!!
How do we avoid getting hit?...
Also take note, that when we pass through a battle, in Christ, we stand firm.
So I would like to challenge you to read this passage before each day, and to go in peace knowing that Christ is with us and He will help us. However don't forget to prepare yourselves. If we don't prepare for the battles that we will face, the harder it is to overcome them. It would be like showing up to play football, and not having a football!!
Like going to the office to do a presentation, and not having the materials to present your project! Or not being prepared for whatever battle you may face each day.
So take this passage from your head and apply it to your heart, and therefore stand firm, knowing you are prepared to face the battle.
I will pray for you and ask that you would pray for me also.
Use every piece of God's armor to resist the enemy in the time of evil, so that after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the sturdy belt of truth and the body armor of God's righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News, so that you will be fully prepared. In every battle you will need faith as your shield to stop the fiery arrows aimed at you by Satan. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Pray at all times and on every occasion in the power of the Holy Spirit. Stay alert and be presistent in your prayers for all...
Ephesians 6:10-18 NLT
Wow...If someone is wondering how they are going to face today and or tomorrow, this my friends is the perfect way to face the day and to dress for the day. As you read this passage, notice how we are in a battle, We have arrows aimed right at us!!
How do we avoid getting hit?...
Also take note, that when we pass through a battle, in Christ, we stand firm.
So I would like to challenge you to read this passage before each day, and to go in peace knowing that Christ is with us and He will help us. However don't forget to prepare yourselves. If we don't prepare for the battles that we will face, the harder it is to overcome them. It would be like showing up to play football, and not having a football!!
Like going to the office to do a presentation, and not having the materials to present your project! Or not being prepared for whatever battle you may face each day.
So take this passage from your head and apply it to your heart, and therefore stand firm, knowing you are prepared to face the battle.
I will pray for you and ask that you would pray for me also.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Deep
Deep:
It’s the difference between splashing in the kiddie pool and diving in the ocean. One gets your feet wet…the other completely surrounds you.
That’s also the difference between religion and a real relationship with God. One is a feel good experience, while the other just blows you away. It’s immense, untamed-even a little risky.
I dare you and I to go deep – to seek a deep relationship with God and with others. Let us go deep in His Word and in worship. So if you’re tired of the kiddie pool, then dive in and explore God through reading the Bible, prayer, and some great discussions with other believers---because life wasn’t meant for wading, it is meant to go deep!!
It’s the difference between splashing in the kiddie pool and diving in the ocean. One gets your feet wet…the other completely surrounds you.
That’s also the difference between religion and a real relationship with God. One is a feel good experience, while the other just blows you away. It’s immense, untamed-even a little risky.
I dare you and I to go deep – to seek a deep relationship with God and with others. Let us go deep in His Word and in worship. So if you’re tired of the kiddie pool, then dive in and explore God through reading the Bible, prayer, and some great discussions with other believers---because life wasn’t meant for wading, it is meant to go deep!!
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
SPEAK UP...
Some Christians believe that faith is a personal matter and should be kept to oneself. It is true that we shouldn't be boisterous or obnoxious in sharing our faith, but we should always be readying to answer, gently and respectfully, when asked about our beliefs, our lifestyle, or our Christian perspective.
How do you tell others what Christ has done in your life?
Please respone to this post or the past postings, or just send a comment. I would like to see if anyone is reading this!!
How do you tell others what Christ has done in your life?
Please respone to this post or the past postings, or just send a comment. I would like to see if anyone is reading this!!
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Today March 16 2010
Today I would like to share something that am currently experiencing, and also something that I shared to a good pastor friend of mine.
Currently at forty something, I am a shut-in, due to a lower back issue called, Arachnoiditis. (for more information on this, go to webmd.com)
This arachnoiditis has caused me to be completely disabled.
As I lay on my couch with my dog, Foster. I am in consent pain 24/7, the pain is never ending. I thought of this...
My world...
What I see and experience, everyday never really changes. My world is always still, quite and sometimes boring. My dog, ( Foster) does very little, sleeps a lot and cares for me. You see when I get up, he walks with me and stands by me. When I sleep he will awake me every so often to make sure I am ok. He is a Great dog.
Getting back to my thought...
As I look out my window, I see a world that I once was involved in. It is changing everyday and moving forward at a rapid speed. I once had “friends” in that world. I would hang out with them, sharing some conversation over some great coffee. We would go places, just being good friends. I would see them at church. I would pray for them, they would pray for me. Just friends hanging out in a ever changing world.
Now that I am not able to be out in this fast moving world, where have my friends gone? In the beginning stages of my back issues, They would come by for a visit, but as the days turned into weeks and the weeks turned months,those visits soon faded away. Now loneliness seems to be my visitor. Oh I still have a couple of loyal friends, that visit me.
This thought really made me wonder about other shut-ins, how are they coping with thier now dark, empty, and unchanging world?
How is the "church" dealing with members that are currently shut-in?
How would Jesus handle this?
I think I found something in the Bible that just might help us...
Checkout Matthew 25: 35-40 (for those without a Bible, go to... biblegateway.com)
In this passage it talks about those in need, those who are hungry, thristy, a stranger, naked, sick, and in prison.
Yes each one of those can be connected to a shut-in.
Hungry...shut-ins have this hunger for touch from the outside. A visitor coming over just to offer a hug, hand shake. All humans desire that physical touch from others.
Thirsty...Who isn't thirsty for something. For us shut-ins we would love it if someone came by for a visit and treated us with our favorite drink.
A Stranger... Well to most people in the church today, shut-in's are a stranger. This would mean for some people, that they have to get out of their comfort zone. Stepping out in faith. Go out and be Christlike...
To some shut-in's everyone is a stranger, but we never turn away a visitor. And to a shut-in like, I like meeting people... A stranger is really a friend, that I have not meet yet.
Naked... In this case, let us look at the word naked differently,
Shut-ins become naked in the since of our spirituality can be striped away over time, our minds can get striped of the fast pace of this world, and slows our minds way down, some minds even shuts down all together.
Sick... well this speaks for it self. However we could also add not only the physical part, but also the mental sickness.
Prison... Most shut-ins would say that they feel imprisoned. I must say, that I feel this way, even though I am still in my own house.
So what I am trying to share with all those who may read this is... Go visit a shut-in today, and in doing so, you just won't make a shut-in happy, but Christ will be pleased with you.
Currently at forty something, I am a shut-in, due to a lower back issue called, Arachnoiditis. (for more information on this, go to webmd.com)
This arachnoiditis has caused me to be completely disabled.
As I lay on my couch with my dog, Foster. I am in consent pain 24/7, the pain is never ending. I thought of this...
My world...
What I see and experience, everyday never really changes. My world is always still, quite and sometimes boring. My dog, ( Foster) does very little, sleeps a lot and cares for me. You see when I get up, he walks with me and stands by me. When I sleep he will awake me every so often to make sure I am ok. He is a Great dog.
Getting back to my thought...
As I look out my window, I see a world that I once was involved in. It is changing everyday and moving forward at a rapid speed. I once had “friends” in that world. I would hang out with them, sharing some conversation over some great coffee. We would go places, just being good friends. I would see them at church. I would pray for them, they would pray for me. Just friends hanging out in a ever changing world.
Now that I am not able to be out in this fast moving world, where have my friends gone? In the beginning stages of my back issues, They would come by for a visit, but as the days turned into weeks and the weeks turned months,those visits soon faded away. Now loneliness seems to be my visitor. Oh I still have a couple of loyal friends, that visit me.
This thought really made me wonder about other shut-ins, how are they coping with thier now dark, empty, and unchanging world?
How is the "church" dealing with members that are currently shut-in?
How would Jesus handle this?
I think I found something in the Bible that just might help us...
Checkout Matthew 25: 35-40 (for those without a Bible, go to... biblegateway.com)
In this passage it talks about those in need, those who are hungry, thristy, a stranger, naked, sick, and in prison.
Yes each one of those can be connected to a shut-in.
Hungry...shut-ins have this hunger for touch from the outside. A visitor coming over just to offer a hug, hand shake. All humans desire that physical touch from others.
Thirsty...Who isn't thirsty for something. For us shut-ins we would love it if someone came by for a visit and treated us with our favorite drink.
A Stranger... Well to most people in the church today, shut-in's are a stranger. This would mean for some people, that they have to get out of their comfort zone. Stepping out in faith. Go out and be Christlike...
To some shut-in's everyone is a stranger, but we never turn away a visitor. And to a shut-in like, I like meeting people... A stranger is really a friend, that I have not meet yet.
Naked... In this case, let us look at the word naked differently,
Shut-ins become naked in the since of our spirituality can be striped away over time, our minds can get striped of the fast pace of this world, and slows our minds way down, some minds even shuts down all together.
Sick... well this speaks for it self. However we could also add not only the physical part, but also the mental sickness.
Prison... Most shut-ins would say that they feel imprisoned. I must say, that I feel this way, even though I am still in my own house.
So what I am trying to share with all those who may read this is... Go visit a shut-in today, and in doing so, you just won't make a shut-in happy, but Christ will be pleased with you.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Naming the Five C's
1. Christ
He is my best friend and my Lord and Savior, and my Redeemer
2. Cindy
My wife of 11 years and still counting. She is my best friend, She my help mate, my lover, and the mother of our two wonderful children.
3. Coffee
My wake up companion, My drink of choice while having conversation with a friend.
4. Coca-cola
My only choice of soft drinks. The item that I have a collection of...
5. Chocolate
I will say this... I am hoping that Heaven, has a unending amounts... I love dark chocolate better then milk chocolate... However I never turn down chocolate when I am offered some. My choice of candy bars is, Mounds!
He is my best friend and my Lord and Savior, and my Redeemer
2. Cindy
My wife of 11 years and still counting. She is my best friend, She my help mate, my lover, and the mother of our two wonderful children.
3. Coffee
My wake up companion, My drink of choice while having conversation with a friend.
4. Coca-cola
My only choice of soft drinks. The item that I have a collection of...
5. Chocolate
I will say this... I am hoping that Heaven, has a unending amounts... I love dark chocolate better then milk chocolate... However I never turn down chocolate when I am offered some. My choice of candy bars is, Mounds!
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