Appropriate Reverence of God
S - Rev 11 :15-16 (NASB)
“The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ; and He will reign forever and ever.” 16 And the twenty-four elders, who sit on their thrones before God, fell on their faces and worshiped God.
O - The twenty four elders, who have been granted thrones before God fell on their face and worshiped God. This is a testimony to the Glory of God, that these 24 exceptional men chosen to sit before God in heaven, at the moment of God's eternal reign on earth worship God in the most humblest of manners.
A - As for me I have thought at times I may have been too casual at times during my devotional and worship times. I have enjoyed the relaxing peace of prayer and studying God's word as a refuge and rejuvenation time. But I know also recognize the importance of reverence of who God is. While I rejoice in my close relationship with him through his son , in now means are we equals and he deserves all honor, glory and praise.
P - Dear heavenly Father , I do repent and apologize if my worship of you has at all been disrespectful or not fully acknowledging who you are. I thank you for the tender , caring relationship you have offered me and I pray your Holy Spirit will guide me to steward this relationship well. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.
Saturday, December 29, 2012
Sunday, December 23, 2012
Abiding in Christ, the key to fruitfullness
Abiding in Christ, the key to fruitfulness
S - John 15:
2 Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit, He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit, He prunes it so that it may bear more fruit. 3 You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you.4 Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you unless you abide in Me. 5 I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing.6 If anyone does not abide in Me, he is thrown away as a branch and dries up; and they gather them, and cast them into the fire and they are burned. 7 If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. 8 My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be My disciples.
O- It is this natural process of the vine and vinedresser that Jesus helps us understand our relationship with him and God the father. He starts off describing branches that don't bear fruit and those that do bear fruit. One is taken away and another pruned back to allow more growth and fruit bearing. The key to being fruitful is to abide in Christ otherwise they will dry up.
A - This applies to me in this season as I evaluate whether I am drying up or being pruned for future fruit bearing. I am reminded that I must abide in Christ, keeps his word in me and stay connected and focused on His spirit in me. I must assess and evaluate the fruit I bear to ensure I am being fruitful in the Lord both as a sign of correction and a sign on connection to Christ. In this season the fruit I am investing in is in my kids, my wife, the families in my small group. There are fruitful opportunities at work in the students under my care, and fruitful opportunities with my family.
P - Dear heavenly Father, thank you for today's devotion may it be sealed to my heart, changing and shaping me as you see necessary for my future fruitfulness. I pray Lord that you allow me to stay connected to you, and tha tyougive me courage in this season of pruning. I pray all this in Jesus name, Amen.
S - John 15:
2 Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit, He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit, He prunes it so that it may bear more fruit. 3 You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you.4 Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you unless you abide in Me. 5 I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing.6 If anyone does not abide in Me, he is thrown away as a branch and dries up; and they gather them, and cast them into the fire and they are burned. 7 If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. 8 My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be My disciples.
O- It is this natural process of the vine and vinedresser that Jesus helps us understand our relationship with him and God the father. He starts off describing branches that don't bear fruit and those that do bear fruit. One is taken away and another pruned back to allow more growth and fruit bearing. The key to being fruitful is to abide in Christ otherwise they will dry up.
A - This applies to me in this season as I evaluate whether I am drying up or being pruned for future fruit bearing. I am reminded that I must abide in Christ, keeps his word in me and stay connected and focused on His spirit in me. I must assess and evaluate the fruit I bear to ensure I am being fruitful in the Lord both as a sign of correction and a sign on connection to Christ. In this season the fruit I am investing in is in my kids, my wife, the families in my small group. There are fruitful opportunities at work in the students under my care, and fruitful opportunities with my family.
P - Dear heavenly Father, thank you for today's devotion may it be sealed to my heart, changing and shaping me as you see necessary for my future fruitfulness. I pray Lord that you allow me to stay connected to you, and tha tyougive me courage in this season of pruning. I pray all this in Jesus name, Amen.
Saturday, December 22, 2012
Following Christ example
S- John 12
25 He who loves his [h]life loses it, and he who hates his [i]life in this world will keep it to life eternal. 26 If anyone [j]serves Me, he must follow Me; and where I am, there My servant will be also; if anyone [k]serves Me, the Father will honor him.
O - this is the life of a Christian that Christ is describing to us. One in which we give up our right to choose our life's direction and purpose and choose to follow Christ instead. Jesus set the example for us during his time on earth. Often time his ministry action times came after times of prayer and seeking god or even simple ministering where he would see God was at work.
A - the application for me is more of a conviction in this season to ensure I am seeking The Lord in prayer and discerning where he is at work in and around my life.
P - dear Lord help me today to understand your will and your working in and around my life. I pray this in Jesus name, amen
Thursday, December 20, 2012
Following the Father in all I do
Following the Father in all I do
S - John 8:28-30 (NASB)
28 So Jesus said, “When you lift up the Son of Man, then you will know that I amHe, and I do nothing on My own initiative, but I speak these things as the Father taught Me.29 And He who sent Me is with Me; He has not left Me alone, for I always do the things that are pleasing to Him.” 30 As He spoke these things, many came to believe in Him.
O - Jesus here is continuing to testify to who he is to the people and the Pharisee's. He has used many approaches in his teachings and he continues to gather believers along the way, while those who do not believe continue to not see who he truly is. In this particular statement He gives testimony to us his followers an example of how we are to live and lead others to a relationship with God. He says he does nothing on his own initiative but simple does the things His Father, God, taught him. He also testifies that he is not separated from the Father, and that the things he is doing is pleasing to God.
A - The application for me is to understand that my life is to be modeled after Christ. I am to speak the things God has taught me. The truth in love, through his word and his spirit I have been taught and transformed. I still have things in me that are not from God and I must be careful and discerning to not teach or press those things forward. I am to stay close to God so that I am not alone in what I am doing. When I head out on my own I do so at the risk of being separated from God's will and not under his covering. Not that God isn't with me, I can just at times be out of his will for me life because I am not seeking him or hearing him.
P - Dear heavenly Father, thank you for today's lesson, may it be sealed to my heart. I pray Lord that you would help me to teach the things you have taught me, that I would listen and stay close to you as I walk out this life. Lord lead me in this season of seeking what it is you would have me focus my heart, mind,and energy on. I pray all this in Jesus name,Amen.
S - John 8:28-30 (NASB)
28 So Jesus said, “When you lift up the Son of Man, then you will know that I amHe, and I do nothing on My own initiative, but I speak these things as the Father taught Me.29 And He who sent Me is with Me; He has not left Me alone, for I always do the things that are pleasing to Him.” 30 As He spoke these things, many came to believe in Him.
O - Jesus here is continuing to testify to who he is to the people and the Pharisee's. He has used many approaches in his teachings and he continues to gather believers along the way, while those who do not believe continue to not see who he truly is. In this particular statement He gives testimony to us his followers an example of how we are to live and lead others to a relationship with God. He says he does nothing on his own initiative but simple does the things His Father, God, taught him. He also testifies that he is not separated from the Father, and that the things he is doing is pleasing to God.
A - The application for me is to understand that my life is to be modeled after Christ. I am to speak the things God has taught me. The truth in love, through his word and his spirit I have been taught and transformed. I still have things in me that are not from God and I must be careful and discerning to not teach or press those things forward. I am to stay close to God so that I am not alone in what I am doing. When I head out on my own I do so at the risk of being separated from God's will and not under his covering. Not that God isn't with me, I can just at times be out of his will for me life because I am not seeking him or hearing him.
P - Dear heavenly Father, thank you for today's lesson, may it be sealed to my heart. I pray Lord that you would help me to teach the things you have taught me, that I would listen and stay close to you as I walk out this life. Lord lead me in this season of seeking what it is you would have me focus my heart, mind,and energy on. I pray all this in Jesus name,Amen.
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
Move forward in faith and patience
Move forward in faith and patience
S - Hebrews 6:1-12 (NIV)
Therefore let us move beyond the elementary teachings about Christ and be taken forward to maturity, not laying again the foundation of repentance from acts that lead to death,[a] and of faith in God, 2 instruction about cleansing rites,[b] the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. 3 And God permitting, we will do so.
4 It is impossible for those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, who have shared in the Holy Spirit, 5 who have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the coming age 6 and who have fallen[c] away, to be brought back to repentance. To their loss they are crucifying the Son of God all over again and subjecting him to public disgrace. 7 Land that drinks in the rain often falling on it and that produces a crop useful to those for whom it is farmed receives the blessing of God. 8 But land that produces thorns and thistles is worthless and is in danger of being cursed. In the end it will be burned.
9 Even though we speak like this, dear friends, we are convinced of better things in your case—the things that have to do with salvation. 10 God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them. 11 We want each of you to show this same diligence to the very end, so that what you hope for may be fully realized. 12 We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised.
O - Paul continues here in Hebrews to give words of truth and words of encouragement to believers about their faith in Christ, and salvation they have received. He cautions them about leaning backwards on old foundations in the Hebrew faith, but rather move forward in their walk with Christ, not to become stagnant or backsliding. Paul's has that gift to both correct and encourage those he speaks to, not to tear down and discourage. During this early time in the church you can imagine the trials along the way as they learn to lead an live in Christ's church. These early corrections where so neccessary so that things won't follow the same pattern with God's people as it had in the past, and is true even to today. Often times God's people would come to repentance after correction, only to find themselves years or generations later farther from God and his ways. The path with Christ is different because we now have a high priest who once and for all reconcilled our sins, and forever intercedes for us. The tension lies in that though our salvation is assurred through Christ, we are not called to sit idly by and but participate in what God is doing while waiting on the full promises and prophesies of God, but are called to be moving forward to the promises.
A - The application for me is to see that I must continue to always look forward in my faith, pressing toward a growing maturity. I must not rest on foundations of my past, but continue to grow in understanding and maturity in the ways of Christ. My walk with Christ started off as a sprint, as I eagerly sought to run toward Christ and these new ways of living. In this stage of my walk with Christ, I see it more as a marathon, one in which I must realize I need to stay encouraged and keep moving forward, to stop moving forward would only cause me to cramp up, or even worse decide never again to start running. So this word for me is an encouragement and exhortation to, through faith and patience, continue to move forward in growing in knowledge and experience of who Christ is. I must stay committed to growing through prayer, study of His word, and practicing my faith daily with those He places before me.
P - Dear heavnely Father, thank you for today's lesson, may it be sealed to my heart, so that I may continue to walk forward in your truth. I pray Lord for encouragement and guidance from the Holy spirit to reveal new truths and revive a fresh spirit in me. I pray this in Jesus name, Amen.
S - Hebrews 6:1-12 (NIV)
Therefore let us move beyond the elementary teachings about Christ and be taken forward to maturity, not laying again the foundation of repentance from acts that lead to death,[a] and of faith in God, 2 instruction about cleansing rites,[b] the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. 3 And God permitting, we will do so.
4 It is impossible for those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, who have shared in the Holy Spirit, 5 who have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the coming age 6 and who have fallen[c] away, to be brought back to repentance. To their loss they are crucifying the Son of God all over again and subjecting him to public disgrace. 7 Land that drinks in the rain often falling on it and that produces a crop useful to those for whom it is farmed receives the blessing of God. 8 But land that produces thorns and thistles is worthless and is in danger of being cursed. In the end it will be burned.
9 Even though we speak like this, dear friends, we are convinced of better things in your case—the things that have to do with salvation. 10 God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them. 11 We want each of you to show this same diligence to the very end, so that what you hope for may be fully realized. 12 We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised.
O - Paul continues here in Hebrews to give words of truth and words of encouragement to believers about their faith in Christ, and salvation they have received. He cautions them about leaning backwards on old foundations in the Hebrew faith, but rather move forward in their walk with Christ, not to become stagnant or backsliding. Paul's has that gift to both correct and encourage those he speaks to, not to tear down and discourage. During this early time in the church you can imagine the trials along the way as they learn to lead an live in Christ's church. These early corrections where so neccessary so that things won't follow the same pattern with God's people as it had in the past, and is true even to today. Often times God's people would come to repentance after correction, only to find themselves years or generations later farther from God and his ways. The path with Christ is different because we now have a high priest who once and for all reconcilled our sins, and forever intercedes for us. The tension lies in that though our salvation is assurred through Christ, we are not called to sit idly by and but participate in what God is doing while waiting on the full promises and prophesies of God, but are called to be moving forward to the promises.
A - The application for me is to see that I must continue to always look forward in my faith, pressing toward a growing maturity. I must not rest on foundations of my past, but continue to grow in understanding and maturity in the ways of Christ. My walk with Christ started off as a sprint, as I eagerly sought to run toward Christ and these new ways of living. In this stage of my walk with Christ, I see it more as a marathon, one in which I must realize I need to stay encouraged and keep moving forward, to stop moving forward would only cause me to cramp up, or even worse decide never again to start running. So this word for me is an encouragement and exhortation to, through faith and patience, continue to move forward in growing in knowledge and experience of who Christ is. I must stay committed to growing through prayer, study of His word, and practicing my faith daily with those He places before me.
P - Dear heavnely Father, thank you for today's lesson, may it be sealed to my heart, so that I may continue to walk forward in your truth. I pray Lord for encouragement and guidance from the Holy spirit to reveal new truths and revive a fresh spirit in me. I pray this in Jesus name, Amen.
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
Jesus, my savior
Jesus, my savior
S - Hebrews 2:14-18 (NASB)
14 Therefore, since the children share in flesh and blood, He Himself likewise also partook of the same, that through death He might render powerless him who had the power of death, that is, the devil, 15 and might free those who through fear of death were subject to slavery all their lives. 16 For assuredly He does not give help to angels, but He gives help to the descendant of Abraham. 17 Therefore, He had to be made like His brethren in all things, so that He might become a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. 18 For since He Himself was tempted in that which He has suffered, He is able to come to the aid of those who are tempted.
O - Jesus is not only our perfect savior, sent by God, above the angels, but he is our friend. He understands our human experiences and struggles, which is why he passionately served us through his suffering and death on the cross. He has freed us from the power of the devil, and from all fear. He gives us help to navigate this world, and comes to our aid and intercession with God the Father.
A - Just dissecting God's word, written by Paul helps me reflect on who Jesus is in my life. I am thankful for having had Jesus change my life and being my advocate in this life. I must remember to lean on him , daily in my seeking to follow God's will for my life. I need to seek Jesus in my daily circumstances as well as for help from the slippery slope the world is pulling me down.
P - Dear heavenly Father thank you for today's lesson in you Word. Thank you for sending Jesus for me, and Jesus thank you for your daily walk and lifting me up. I need you now more than ever Lord to lift and guide me through this season. I pray all this in Jesus name, Amen.
S - Hebrews 2:14-18 (NASB)
14 Therefore, since the children share in flesh and blood, He Himself likewise also partook of the same, that through death He might render powerless him who had the power of death, that is, the devil, 15 and might free those who through fear of death were subject to slavery all their lives. 16 For assuredly He does not give help to angels, but He gives help to the descendant of Abraham. 17 Therefore, He had to be made like His brethren in all things, so that He might become a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. 18 For since He Himself was tempted in that which He has suffered, He is able to come to the aid of those who are tempted.
O - Jesus is not only our perfect savior, sent by God, above the angels, but he is our friend. He understands our human experiences and struggles, which is why he passionately served us through his suffering and death on the cross. He has freed us from the power of the devil, and from all fear. He gives us help to navigate this world, and comes to our aid and intercession with God the Father.
A - Just dissecting God's word, written by Paul helps me reflect on who Jesus is in my life. I am thankful for having had Jesus change my life and being my advocate in this life. I must remember to lean on him , daily in my seeking to follow God's will for my life. I need to seek Jesus in my daily circumstances as well as for help from the slippery slope the world is pulling me down.
P - Dear heavenly Father thank you for today's lesson in you Word. Thank you for sending Jesus for me, and Jesus thank you for your daily walk and lifting me up. I need you now more than ever Lord to lift and guide me through this season. I pray all this in Jesus name, Amen.
Monday, December 10, 2012
Renewing a spirit of confidence in me
Renewing a spirit of confidence in me
S - 2 Tim 1:5-7 (NASB)
5 For I am mindful of the sincere faith within you, which first dwelt in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am sure that it is in you as well. 6 For this reason I remind you to kindle afresh the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands. 7 For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline.
O - Paul's encouragement to Timothy here in this letter was likely holy spirit led as I can imagine after years of traveling with and serving under Paul, Timothy now being left alone with some other congregations, may have been facing doubtful moments in his own ministry. Paul encourages him with words and prayer and a heart inspired reminder of the power of God within him.
A - The application for me is to see in this time of flagging confidence in my path, I am to remember the faith God has imparted to me and the gifts and calling that he has led me to.
P - Lord I ask that you renew anew my confidence in you and increase my spirit through the power of your great love. I pray Lord that you lead me through and out of this season, to a new season where I might act with great peace and confidence and be more effective in helping you. I pray all this in Jesus name, Amen.
S - 2 Tim 1:5-7 (NASB)
5 For I am mindful of the sincere faith within you, which first dwelt in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am sure that it is in you as well. 6 For this reason I remind you to kindle afresh the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands. 7 For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline.
O - Paul's encouragement to Timothy here in this letter was likely holy spirit led as I can imagine after years of traveling with and serving under Paul, Timothy now being left alone with some other congregations, may have been facing doubtful moments in his own ministry. Paul encourages him with words and prayer and a heart inspired reminder of the power of God within him.
A - The application for me is to see in this time of flagging confidence in my path, I am to remember the faith God has imparted to me and the gifts and calling that he has led me to.
P - Lord I ask that you renew anew my confidence in you and increase my spirit through the power of your great love. I pray Lord that you lead me through and out of this season, to a new season where I might act with great peace and confidence and be more effective in helping you. I pray all this in Jesus name, Amen.
Saturday, December 1, 2012
MY new life in Christ
MY new life in Christ
S - Romans 5
5 Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, 2 through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God. 3 And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; 4 and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; 5 and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.
Romans 8:
37 But in all these things we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us. 38 For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, 39 nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
O - My observation is that Romans is a timely and timeless word for me today. Though Paul is speaking to the Roman believers so that they might understand this unique thing that has happened, salvation through a man, just as condemnation came through a man (Adam). The law fulfilled though now free from the implications of the law (our sinfulness). By faith and not by our own works, we are now on a journey with Christ in us, one of continued character growth along the way, but one that will never go back to the bounds of sin in our life. For God knows we have further to grow, but never again will it be our flesh but His spirit in us that guides and directs the growth. Never again are we to be separated from His spirit.
A - The application for me today is the pure and powerful recognition that circumstances in my life will change, but Christ is eternally with me and I am his. So much of my life was thought and planned from the flesh, and now that I am a new creation , growing in Christ, I continue to shed some of the expectations of my flesh and grown toward the external plans of Christ in my life. Not that my life is extra ordinary, just that my life is no longer my own, and is as it originally was designed to be, in the loving hands of God. I am encouraged by Paul's words, and the Holy Spirit that in this season, despite my feelings and circumstances I am not being separated from God.
P - Dear heavenly Father, thank you for today's lesson, may it be sealed to my heart. I pray that you continue to sustain this growth and strengthening through you word, and reflection on what your spirit is doing in me. I pray all this in Jesus name, Amen.
S - Romans 5
5 Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, 2 through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God. 3 And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; 4 and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; 5 and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.
Romans 8:
37 But in all these things we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us. 38 For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, 39 nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
O - My observation is that Romans is a timely and timeless word for me today. Though Paul is speaking to the Roman believers so that they might understand this unique thing that has happened, salvation through a man, just as condemnation came through a man (Adam). The law fulfilled though now free from the implications of the law (our sinfulness). By faith and not by our own works, we are now on a journey with Christ in us, one of continued character growth along the way, but one that will never go back to the bounds of sin in our life. For God knows we have further to grow, but never again will it be our flesh but His spirit in us that guides and directs the growth. Never again are we to be separated from His spirit.
A - The application for me today is the pure and powerful recognition that circumstances in my life will change, but Christ is eternally with me and I am his. So much of my life was thought and planned from the flesh, and now that I am a new creation , growing in Christ, I continue to shed some of the expectations of my flesh and grown toward the external plans of Christ in my life. Not that my life is extra ordinary, just that my life is no longer my own, and is as it originally was designed to be, in the loving hands of God. I am encouraged by Paul's words, and the Holy Spirit that in this season, despite my feelings and circumstances I am not being separated from God.
P - Dear heavenly Father, thank you for today's lesson, may it be sealed to my heart. I pray that you continue to sustain this growth and strengthening through you word, and reflection on what your spirit is doing in me. I pray all this in Jesus name, Amen.
Saturday, November 24, 2012
Forgiveness
Forgiveness
S - Matthew 18:21-35 (NASB)
21 Then Peter came and said to Him, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me and I forgive him? Up to seven times?” 22 Jesus *said to him, “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.
23 “For this reason the kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who wished to settle accounts with his slaves. 24 When he had begun to settle them, one who owed him ten thousand talents was brought to him. 25 But since he did not have the means to repay, his lord commanded him to be sold, along with his wife and children and all that he had, and repayment to be made. 26 So the slave fell to the ground and prostrated himself before him, saying, ‘Have patience with me and I will repay you everything.’ 27 And the lord of that slave felt compassion and released him and forgave him the debt. 28 But that slave went out and found one of his fellow slaves who owed him a hundred denarii; and he seized him and began to choke him, saying, ‘Pay back what you owe.’ 29 So his fellow slave fell to the ground and began to plead with him, saying, ‘Have patience with me and I will repay you.’30 But he was unwilling and went and threw him in prison until he should pay back what was owed. 31 So when his fellow slaves saw what had happened, they were deeply grieved and came and reported to their lord all that had happened. 32 Then summoning him, his lord *said to him, ‘You wicked slave, I forgave you all that debt because you pleaded with me. 33 Should you not also have had mercy on your fellow slave, in the same way that I had mercy on you?’ 34 And his lord, moved with anger, handed him over to the torturers until he should repay all that was owed him. 35 My heavenly Father will also do the same to you, if each of you does not forgive his brother from your heart.”
O- Forgiveness, one of the greatest gifts to receive but one of the hardest gifts to give. Jesus tells of this parable of forgiveness so we will recognize ourselves in it. That we often embrace or even pray for the forgiveness of our heavenly Father, yet when even a close friend or brother has wronged us we expend so much energy trying to get them to right the wrong, even if that is the energy of waiting and holding an offense. Much like in this parable, God expects us to forgive as we have been forgiven. In a way that is how he is restoring his people, through his people.
A - The application for me is in my relations, wife,kids, family, co-workers, bosses, and fellow Christians I am to daily forgive. To ensure as I am coming to my heavenly father for forgiveness I have let go of grudges and ill will to others, even if I have been wronged.
P - God, thank you for today's lesson, may it be sealed to my heart. I pray Lord that you help me to learn to forgive, and teach others forgiveness as you have forgiven and taught me. I pray for my sister Lisa, that your spirit would lead her and guide me as you see fit to help her to know you and know your forgiveness, so that she may begin to forgive.
Thursday, November 22, 2012
Shedding the burdens of the world, in favor of the burdens of Christ
Shedding the burdens of the world, in favor of the burdens of Christ
S - Matthew 11:28-30 (NASB)
28 “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”
O - We who are weary are to come to Jesus and exchange the yoke of the world for the yoke of Jesus. The yoke while it come with some load to bear, Jesus promises his yoke is easy. And with his yoke upon us he can gently guide us and lead us out of our weariness and away from our burdens. When Jesus came to earth he was drawing all near to him, so they could all draw near the Father who is in heaven. Our original design was to be under the Father's gentle yoke, but because of sin we have been separated and picked up our own yoke and continued to add over the days and years to our own burden. We can now turn back, repent, and come to Jesus who restores us.
A - The application for me is to recognize, that I am not just to let go of the burdens of this world, which I see sometimes as the responsibilities I have accumulated over time, but rather to truly seek to come to Jesus, listen to and be led by him, and put on the yoke he gives me, that I might carry the burden he has designed me to carry, because it is easy to be led by his yoke than that of the worlds. His burden is there, but it is light. I might shed myself of burdens that I placed on my self, and only carry those that he has placed on me, like being a good husband, raising and loving my children, and sharing his love with those he places in my life.
P - Dear heavenly Father, thank you for today's lesson, may it be sealed to my heart. I pray Lord that you would continue to lead me with your gentle yoke, making obvious the burdens you intend for me and helping me shed the burdens I or the world has placed on me. I pray all this in Jesus name, Amen.
S - Matthew 11:28-30 (NASB)
28 “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”
O - We who are weary are to come to Jesus and exchange the yoke of the world for the yoke of Jesus. The yoke while it come with some load to bear, Jesus promises his yoke is easy. And with his yoke upon us he can gently guide us and lead us out of our weariness and away from our burdens. When Jesus came to earth he was drawing all near to him, so they could all draw near the Father who is in heaven. Our original design was to be under the Father's gentle yoke, but because of sin we have been separated and picked up our own yoke and continued to add over the days and years to our own burden. We can now turn back, repent, and come to Jesus who restores us.
A - The application for me is to recognize, that I am not just to let go of the burdens of this world, which I see sometimes as the responsibilities I have accumulated over time, but rather to truly seek to come to Jesus, listen to and be led by him, and put on the yoke he gives me, that I might carry the burden he has designed me to carry, because it is easy to be led by his yoke than that of the worlds. His burden is there, but it is light. I might shed myself of burdens that I placed on my self, and only carry those that he has placed on me, like being a good husband, raising and loving my children, and sharing his love with those he places in my life.
P - Dear heavenly Father, thank you for today's lesson, may it be sealed to my heart. I pray Lord that you would continue to lead me with your gentle yoke, making obvious the burdens you intend for me and helping me shed the burdens I or the world has placed on me. I pray all this in Jesus name, Amen.
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Done according to our Faith
Done according to our Faith
S - Math 9:27-30 (NASB)
27 As Jesus went on from there, two blind men followed Him, crying out, “Have mercy on us, Son of David!” 28 When He entered the house, the blind men came up to Him, and Jesus *said to them, “Do you believe that I am able to do this?” They *said to Him, “Yes, Lord.” 29 Then He touched their eyes, saying, “It shall be done to you according to your faith.” 30 And their eyes were opened.
O - In the Gospel of Matthew at this point in the story, Matthew is accounting the numerous, healings, and miracles Jesus performed. Cumulatively they testify to whom Jesus really is, the Son of God, but also if we watch closely to the responses of the accounts of those who were healed we see the faith required to receive these blessings from God. The first indication of faith was that those in need of healing heard of Jesus and pursued him for their healing. When they were able to reach Jesus they asked for mercy. Both of these steps were steps of faith toward Jesus, but the final expression of faith is their actually healing, for Jesus ask them the question do you believe I am able to heal you, and then he healed them according to their faith.
A - The application for me is to understand that of importance and concern is not the capabilities and power of our Lord and Savior Jesus, but rather the depth of my faith in Him. At times I am acutely aware of my greater need for Jesus to save me from my current circumstances, mentally, physically, and/or spiritually. Sometimes my prayers seem to get answered immediately, other times it seems to take time. I wonder how much is done IAW my faith that Jesus is able to change my circumstances. I must continue to seek to grow in trust and faith of all that Christ has offered.
P - Dear heavenly Father, thank you for today's lesson, may it be sealed to my heart.
S - Math 9:27-30 (NASB)
27 As Jesus went on from there, two blind men followed Him, crying out, “Have mercy on us, Son of David!” 28 When He entered the house, the blind men came up to Him, and Jesus *said to them, “Do you believe that I am able to do this?” They *said to Him, “Yes, Lord.” 29 Then He touched their eyes, saying, “It shall be done to you according to your faith.” 30 And their eyes were opened.
O - In the Gospel of Matthew at this point in the story, Matthew is accounting the numerous, healings, and miracles Jesus performed. Cumulatively they testify to whom Jesus really is, the Son of God, but also if we watch closely to the responses of the accounts of those who were healed we see the faith required to receive these blessings from God. The first indication of faith was that those in need of healing heard of Jesus and pursued him for their healing. When they were able to reach Jesus they asked for mercy. Both of these steps were steps of faith toward Jesus, but the final expression of faith is their actually healing, for Jesus ask them the question do you believe I am able to heal you, and then he healed them according to their faith.
A - The application for me is to understand that of importance and concern is not the capabilities and power of our Lord and Savior Jesus, but rather the depth of my faith in Him. At times I am acutely aware of my greater need for Jesus to save me from my current circumstances, mentally, physically, and/or spiritually. Sometimes my prayers seem to get answered immediately, other times it seems to take time. I wonder how much is done IAW my faith that Jesus is able to change my circumstances. I must continue to seek to grow in trust and faith of all that Christ has offered.
P - Dear heavenly Father, thank you for today's lesson, may it be sealed to my heart.
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
Storing up treasures in heaven
Storing up treasures in heaven
S - Matt 6:19-27 ( NASB)
19 “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal; 21 for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
...
24 “No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth.
25 “For this reason I say to you, do not be worried about your life, as to what you will eat or what you will drink; nor for your body, as to what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? 26 Look at the birds of the air, that they do not sow, nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not worth much more than they? 27 And who of you by being worried can add a single hour to his life?
O - God has revealed these profound and simple words through his son Jesus, because he knows our struggles and toils. In some way we toil due to our own sin and separation from God, it is our curse as we were kicked out of of Eden. Jesus' instruction is drawing us back to the promises of living under God's full dominion as it was in the Garden of Eden. The peace that comes from simply focusing on our relationship with God and relationship with others is freeing from the constant worry about our provision, which can lead to us storing up treasures for fear we will run out. Therefore it is out of fear that we begin guarding our treasure and our heart begins focusing on the treasure instead of God and our relationships.
A - The application for me is to strike out again for freedom from the growing bondage that is finances and my treasures here on earth. I must once again place my trust in God for my families full provision, and start storing up heavenly treasures and not earthly treasures. Heaven treasures being relationship building things with Christ, my wife, my girls, and those God places in my life.
P - Dear heavenly Father, Lord I pray for help in turning my head toward your heavenly treasures, and away from the worries of treasures of this world. I pray all this in Jesus name, Amen.
S - Matt 6:19-27 ( NASB)
19 “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal; 21 for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
...
24 “No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth.
25 “For this reason I say to you, do not be worried about your life, as to what you will eat or what you will drink; nor for your body, as to what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? 26 Look at the birds of the air, that they do not sow, nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not worth much more than they? 27 And who of you by being worried can add a single hour to his life?
O - God has revealed these profound and simple words through his son Jesus, because he knows our struggles and toils. In some way we toil due to our own sin and separation from God, it is our curse as we were kicked out of of Eden. Jesus' instruction is drawing us back to the promises of living under God's full dominion as it was in the Garden of Eden. The peace that comes from simply focusing on our relationship with God and relationship with others is freeing from the constant worry about our provision, which can lead to us storing up treasures for fear we will run out. Therefore it is out of fear that we begin guarding our treasure and our heart begins focusing on the treasure instead of God and our relationships.
A - The application for me is to strike out again for freedom from the growing bondage that is finances and my treasures here on earth. I must once again place my trust in God for my families full provision, and start storing up heavenly treasures and not earthly treasures. Heaven treasures being relationship building things with Christ, my wife, my girls, and those God places in my life.
P - Dear heavenly Father, Lord I pray for help in turning my head toward your heavenly treasures, and away from the worries of treasures of this world. I pray all this in Jesus name, Amen.
Monday, November 19, 2012
Preparation for ministry
Preparation for ministry
S - Mathew 4:5-11 (NASB)
S - Mathew 4:5-11 (NASB)
5 Then the devil *took Him into the holy city and had Him stand on the pinnacle of the temple,6 and *said to Him, “If You are the Son of God, throw Yourself down; for it is written,
‘He will command His angels concerning You’;
and
‘On their hands they will bear You up,
So that You will not strike Your foot against a stone.’”
So that You will not strike Your foot against a stone.’”
7 Jesus said to him, “On the other hand, it is written, ‘You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.’”
8 Again, the devil *took Him to a very high mountain and *showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory; 9 and he said to Him, “All these things I will give You, if You fall down andworship me.” 10 Then Jesus *said to him, “Go, Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God, and serve Him only.’” 11 Then the devil *left Him; and behold, angels came and began to minister to Him.
Jesus Begins His Ministry
O - Mathews account of Jesus entering the formal outward ministry gives me an understanding of how God might call us into ministry. Jesus was born and raised by his parents. He was named and dedicated to God but he still needed to be grow under his parents (and of course God's) shepherding. After being baptized by the John the Baptist God proclaimed Jesus as his son, in whom he was well pleased, and then he was lead off to the desert to be tempted by the devil. Jesus both flesh and spirit , felt the ache of the human condition after 40 days of fasting and yet the spirit in him clung tightly to God and His word. It was after these testing from the devil, and his stalwart responses that once Jesus was physically recovered, at the assistance of the angels, that he began his active ministry.
A - The application for me is to reflect on my own journey and walk with God. I have been reborn a new creation in Christ, and raised by my spiritual family to begin to understand the things of God and His church. I have proclaimed my faith through baptism in water, and have received the holy spirit. In this season I am in, I feel as if though I am not so much in the desert, I have been given over to Satan and allowed to be tested. My body is not physically weak but my spirit is , and I need to continue to lean on God's truth to defend against and rebuke the devil's lies.
P - Lord Jesus, give me strength and confidence to walk through this season, and give me protection with you word against the devil's discouraging and tempting words. Help me like you to walk away in victory from tempation that I might serve my purpose here on earth. I pray all this in Jesus name, Amen.
Friday, November 16, 2012
Our inner life being renewed daily, in the midst of external decay
Our inner life being renewed daily, in the midst of external decay
2 Cor 3
15 But to this day whenever Moses is read, a veil lies over their heart; 16 but whenever a person turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. 17 Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is,there is liberty. 18 But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as from the Lord, the Spirit.
2 Cor 4
...
16 Therefore we do not lose heart, but though our outer man is decaying, yet our inner man is being renewed day by day.
O - This letter from Paul to the Corinthians is rich with instruction to a local church and its membership on to how they are to view their new found freedom in Christ, and what to expect in walking out their faith. One way Paul does this by revealing the difference between operating under the written law of Moses which is has been veiled us from God's glory and the veil being removed by Christ, and now Christ's spirit is in us and we have a new found freedom in Christ that could have never been attained under the law. Now the light shines in us to share with the world but we are yet still vessels born on earth and face the same fragilities of this world. We can be broken and cracked, but we will not despair or be destroyed because we have the eternal light of Christ in us. We are both dying to the old body and being renew in our inner life daily.
A- The application for me is to realize when I begin feeling down and defeated in it often the external circumstances and my outer self that is feeling defeated. Whether it be my physical body getting older and more sore with age, or my worries for the external circumstances like my job, my possessions decaying away that I begin despairing. The encouragement from Paul is this that my internal man is being renewed daily, through prayer, God's word, and the Holy Spirit in me. This is being renewed and restored daily.
P - Dear heavenly Father, thank you for your daily spiritual renewal. I recognize I have despaired to much about my external circumstances, while all along you are renewing me daily and filling me spiritually. I pray that you continue to renew me from the inside out, until once again your light shines to all around me and they see your glory through my life.
2 Cor 3
15 But to this day whenever Moses is read, a veil lies over their heart; 16 but whenever a person turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. 17 Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is,there is liberty. 18 But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as from the Lord, the Spirit.
2 Cor 4
6 For God, who said, “Light shall shine out of darkness,” is the One who has shone in our hearts to give the Light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ.
7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, so that the surpassing greatness of the power will be of God and not from ourselves; 8 we are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not despairing; 9 persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; 10 always carrying about in the body the dying of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body. 11 For we who live are constantly being delivered over to death for Jesus’ sake, so that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our mortal flesh. 12 So death works in us, but life in you....
16 Therefore we do not lose heart, but though our outer man is decaying, yet our inner man is being renewed day by day.
O - This letter from Paul to the Corinthians is rich with instruction to a local church and its membership on to how they are to view their new found freedom in Christ, and what to expect in walking out their faith. One way Paul does this by revealing the difference between operating under the written law of Moses which is has been veiled us from God's glory and the veil being removed by Christ, and now Christ's spirit is in us and we have a new found freedom in Christ that could have never been attained under the law. Now the light shines in us to share with the world but we are yet still vessels born on earth and face the same fragilities of this world. We can be broken and cracked, but we will not despair or be destroyed because we have the eternal light of Christ in us. We are both dying to the old body and being renew in our inner life daily.
A- The application for me is to realize when I begin feeling down and defeated in it often the external circumstances and my outer self that is feeling defeated. Whether it be my physical body getting older and more sore with age, or my worries for the external circumstances like my job, my possessions decaying away that I begin despairing. The encouragement from Paul is this that my internal man is being renewed daily, through prayer, God's word, and the Holy Spirit in me. This is being renewed and restored daily.
P - Dear heavenly Father, thank you for your daily spiritual renewal. I recognize I have despaired to much about my external circumstances, while all along you are renewing me daily and filling me spiritually. I pray that you continue to renew me from the inside out, until once again your light shines to all around me and they see your glory through my life.
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