Saturday, September 29, 2012
Matthew 3:13-17 Love
God tells us how delighted he is with his Son who is wanting to honor and be obedient to his Father.
Friday, September 28, 2012
Matthew 3:1-12 John's message.
(NIV)
3 In those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the wilderness of Judea 2 and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” 3 This is he who was spoken of through the prophet Isaiah:
“A voice of one calling in the wilderness,
‘Prepare the way for the Lord,
make straight paths for him.’”
‘Prepare the way for the Lord,
make straight paths for him.’”
4 John’s clothes were made of camel’s hair, and he had a leather belt around his waist. His food was locusts and wild honey. 5 People went out to him from Jerusalem and all Judea and the whole region of the Jordan. 6 Confessing their sins, they were baptized by him in the Jordan River.
7 But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to where he was baptizing, he said to them: “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the coming wrath? 8 Produce fruit in keeping with repentance. 9 And do not think you can say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ I tell you that out of these stones God can raise up children for Abraham. 10 The ax is already at the root of the trees, and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire.11 “I baptize you with water for repentance. But after me comes one who is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. 12 His winnowing fork is in his hand, and he will clear his threshing floor, gathering his wheat into the barn and burning up the chaff with unquenchable fire.”
Just a thought...
The visualization of John is such a vivid one. It certainly grabs your attention. Once John gets our attention his message is even more important. John is telling us that God is about to do something wonderful. God wants us facing in the right direction when it happens. The call for us to repent is a call to examine which direction we are facing, and where we are traveling. He announces that the kingdom of heaven is near, that God is near. God is breaking into our world. John is announcing that that God’s kingdom on earth is coming. That death shall give way to life. That sin shall give way to righteousness. Individual righteousness is a requirement of the kingdom, making repentance a necessary preparation for participation in the kingdom. Repentance affords one the opportunity to be part of the kingdom. By repenting we become the people God wanted us to be when we were first created. This brings our journey together with God. This is the “good news” journey for everyone to share. A journey that never ends but leads to eternal life!
Prayer:
Dear Lord, As we journey through this life let us repent and share Your "good news" with all we meet. Amen
Thursday, September 27, 2012
Matthew 2:19-23 The Dream
(NIV)
The Return to Nazareth19 After Herod died, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt 20 and said, "Get up, take the child and his mother and go to the land of Israel, for those who were trying to take the child’s life are dead."
21 So he got up, took the child and his mother and went to the land of Israel. 22 But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning in Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there. Having been warned in a dream, he withdrew to the district of Galilee, 23 and he went and lived in a town called Nazareth. So was fulfilled what was said through the prophets, that he would be called a Nazarene.
Just a thought...
God revealed his guidance to Joseph in dreams, through angels. Joseph still had to discern God's meaning. He had to chose to follow God. Like us he probably would have liked God's will to be a tad more direct. We forget that Joseph and Mary were living a mystery in a time that was at times frightening and bewildering. Like us they had little advice, and training to prepare them for what lay ahead of them.They had to rely on God each day for his direction.It has always fascinated me that Joseph and Mary would have been faced with the same kind of child rearing problems that most of us face. Except they were raising God's child. They had to rely on God. If we wait on God, if we study His word, if we advance in our spiritual life, then God will guide us according to His plan. We need to be like Mary and Joseph and rely fully on God!
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, Its comforting to see your protection of Joseph and his family. I am thankful that there is never a place or time that you aren't with us. Please inspire me to remember your presence in my life. Help and guide me each day as I seek to live for you. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
The Return to Nazareth19 After Herod died, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt 20 and said, "Get up, take the child and his mother and go to the land of Israel, for those who were trying to take the child’s life are dead."
21 So he got up, took the child and his mother and went to the land of Israel. 22 But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning in Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there. Having been warned in a dream, he withdrew to the district of Galilee, 23 and he went and lived in a town called Nazareth. So was fulfilled what was said through the prophets, that he would be called a Nazarene.
Just a thought...
God revealed his guidance to Joseph in dreams, through angels. Joseph still had to discern God's meaning. He had to chose to follow God. Like us he probably would have liked God's will to be a tad more direct. We forget that Joseph and Mary were living a mystery in a time that was at times frightening and bewildering. Like us they had little advice, and training to prepare them for what lay ahead of them.They had to rely on God each day for his direction.It has always fascinated me that Joseph and Mary would have been faced with the same kind of child rearing problems that most of us face. Except they were raising God's child. They had to rely on God. If we wait on God, if we study His word, if we advance in our spiritual life, then God will guide us according to His plan. We need to be like Mary and Joseph and rely fully on God!
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, Its comforting to see your protection of Joseph and his family. I am thankful that there is never a place or time that you aren't with us. Please inspire me to remember your presence in my life. Help and guide me each day as I seek to live for you. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
Matthew 2:13-15 His Protection
New International Version (NIV)
The Escape to Egypt13 When they had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. "Get up," he said, "take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him."
14 So he got up, took the child and his mother during the night and left for Egypt, 15 where he stayed until the death of Herod. And so was fulfilled what the Lord had said through the prophet: "Out of Egypt I called my son."
Just A Thought...
The birth of Jesus was met with little fanfare. Joseph's little family was safe. But once Herod realized a king had been born he was threatened. Joseph was unaware of any danger.Thankfully God was looking out for Joseph and his family.The birth of Jesus was a great blessing and responsibility. In infancy Jesus was already hated. God sends Joseph and his family to Egypt and safety.
In everyday life we face challenges. God provides us with solutions whether we recognize them or not. We need to realize that if we have our meals today, if we have clothes and even a few pennies in our pocket, we're under the protection of God. If your attitude is one of poor me and you're only able to see negatives in your life. You need to change your attitude and seek God's knowledge and the spiritual growth it offers, not to mention the blessings that ride along with it. Jesus had fellowship with God from the beginning. God is with us from the beginning as well. He stays with us always! If he feels far away to you. You need to find your way back to him through prayer, scripture and worship!
Prayer: Dear Lord, Thank you for always traveling with me. Help me to recognize your blessings in my life and be thanful. Amen
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
Matthew 2:1-12, No Return
The Magi Visit the Messiah(NIV)
2 After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi[a
] from the east came to Jerusalem 2 and asked, "Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him."3 When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him. 4 When he had called together all the people’s chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Messiah was to be born. 5 "In Bethlehem in Judea," they replied, "for this is what the prophet has written:
6 "‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.’[b
]"7 Then Herod called the Magi secretly and found out from them the exact time the star had appeared. 8 He sent them to Bethlehem and said, "Go and search carefully for the child. As soon as you find him, report to me, so that I too may go and worship him."
9 After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. 11 On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. 12 And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route.
Just A Thought...
We aren't told the exact number of wise men nor are we given their names. The general thought is that there were three Magi, wise men. This is because we know that they gave three gifts and it was assumed that each gave one gift.. Whatever their names, and whatever their number, they were most likely Magi from Persia.They would have been astrologers. They knew there had been a king born to the Jewish people because they saw his star rise, and they followed it to Judea. They logically traveled to the capitol city of Jerusalem and entered the royal household of King Herod. It was an accepted custom for royalty to visit royalty while travelling through their kingdom. And since they were looking for a king .Where else would you go but to the king? Upon meeting Herod they asked, "Where is he who is born "king of the Jews?" The chief priests of the Jews told them that according to the prophecies, the Messiah was to be born in Bethlehem.
They followed their star to Bethethlehem. After paying homage and worshiping Jesus, the Magi are warned in a dream not to return to Herod and they return home another way. It's generally accepted thought that they returned home a different way because for their safety. The nativity and the passion of Christ are inseparably bound together. How can we look upon the manger without seeing the cross? The story of the one who was born and died as the King of the Jews, is the story of how much God loves us. The Magi didn't know the whole story of Jesus but yet once they met him they could return the same way they had come. The same thing is true for us once we meet and know Jesus our lives are never the same and we can't turn back!
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, We ask that your love touch our hearts so that we can invite others to our journey with you! Amen
The symbolic meaning of the gifts.
Gold for royalty-wealth and the kingship of Christ
Frankincense - made of gum from an Asian and African tree. It may be burned to produce aromatic smoke used in worship, and symbolizes divinity and prayer
Myrrh - bitter resin used in ancient times to anoint bodies before burial. It is a symbol of suffering and death, foretelling Christ’s giving of self through death.
2 After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi[a
] from the east came to Jerusalem 2 and asked, "Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him."3 When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him. 4 When he had called together all the people’s chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Messiah was to be born. 5 "In Bethlehem in Judea," they replied, "for this is what the prophet has written:
6 "‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.’[b
]"7 Then Herod called the Magi secretly and found out from them the exact time the star had appeared. 8 He sent them to Bethlehem and said, "Go and search carefully for the child. As soon as you find him, report to me, so that I too may go and worship him."
9 After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. 11 On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. 12 And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route.
Just A Thought...
We aren't told the exact number of wise men nor are we given their names. The general thought is that there were three Magi, wise men. This is because we know that they gave three gifts and it was assumed that each gave one gift.. Whatever their names, and whatever their number, they were most likely Magi from Persia.They would have been astrologers. They knew there had been a king born to the Jewish people because they saw his star rise, and they followed it to Judea. They logically traveled to the capitol city of Jerusalem and entered the royal household of King Herod. It was an accepted custom for royalty to visit royalty while travelling through their kingdom. And since they were looking for a king .Where else would you go but to the king? Upon meeting Herod they asked, "Where is he who is born "king of the Jews?" The chief priests of the Jews told them that according to the prophecies, the Messiah was to be born in Bethlehem.
They followed their star to Bethethlehem. After paying homage and worshiping Jesus, the Magi are warned in a dream not to return to Herod and they return home another way. It's generally accepted thought that they returned home a different way because for their safety. The nativity and the passion of Christ are inseparably bound together. How can we look upon the manger without seeing the cross? The story of the one who was born and died as the King of the Jews, is the story of how much God loves us. The Magi didn't know the whole story of Jesus but yet once they met him they could return the same way they had come. The same thing is true for us once we meet and know Jesus our lives are never the same and we can't turn back!
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, We ask that your love touch our hearts so that we can invite others to our journey with you! Amen
The symbolic meaning of the gifts.
Frankincense - made of gum from an Asian and African tree. It may be burned to produce aromatic smoke used in worship, and symbolizes divinity and prayer
Myrrh - bitter resin used in ancient times to anoint bodies before burial. It is a symbol of suffering and death, foretelling Christ’s giving of self through death.
Monday, September 24, 2012
Matthew 1:18-24 Keep The Faith
(NIV)
Joseph Accepts Jesus as His Son 18 This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit. 19 Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly.
20 But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 21 She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins."
22 All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: 23 "The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel" (which means "God with us").
24 When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. 25 But he did not consummate their marriage until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus.
Just a thought...
Mary had to be petrified. She was 16. She was asked to assume a responsibility unlike any other. She was to carry a child that didn't have a Father by known ways . Mary was to accept this miracle that went against nature. This required great faith in God and in his promises. Poor Mary wasn't even married yet. Pregnancy outside of marriage was unacceptable in those days. Mary was engaged to Joseph, but the engagement was to last for a whole year. She was to take a great risk. She could have been rejected by Joseph, by her family, by all her own people. Mary knew that Joseph and her family wouldn't understand without God's intervention. She believed and trusted in God's promises.
Joseph was a good, God fearing man. He didn't want to embarrass Mary when he discovered that she was pregnant. It looked as if she had broken their engagement by being unfaithful to him. Joseph with a troubled heart would have prayed to God for guidance. God sent him the assurance he needed. Joseph believed the divine message from the angel. He took Mary as his wife. He accepted the responsibility of raising of the promised Messiah. Mary and Joseph are models of faith. Are you ready to believe in the promises of God? It can be difficult when our lives plummet downward and appear to be without hope. God has not left us alone. He has a plan. Start each day with a joyful heart! Let us renew our faith and hope in God and His plan for our lives!
Prayer:
Dear Lord Jesus, You came to save us from sin. May we always rejoice in your salvation and trust in your plan for our lives. Amen
Joseph Accepts Jesus as His Son 18 This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit. 19 Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly.
20 But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 21 She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins."
22 All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: 23 "The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel" (which means "God with us").
24 When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. 25 But he did not consummate their marriage until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus.
Just a thought...
Mary had to be petrified. She was 16. She was asked to assume a responsibility unlike any other. She was to carry a child that didn't have a Father by known ways . Mary was to accept this miracle that went against nature. This required great faith in God and in his promises. Poor Mary wasn't even married yet. Pregnancy outside of marriage was unacceptable in those days. Mary was engaged to Joseph, but the engagement was to last for a whole year. She was to take a great risk. She could have been rejected by Joseph, by her family, by all her own people. Mary knew that Joseph and her family wouldn't understand without God's intervention. She believed and trusted in God's promises.
Joseph was a good, God fearing man. He didn't want to embarrass Mary when he discovered that she was pregnant. It looked as if she had broken their engagement by being unfaithful to him. Joseph with a troubled heart would have prayed to God for guidance. God sent him the assurance he needed. Joseph believed the divine message from the angel. He took Mary as his wife. He accepted the responsibility of raising of the promised Messiah. Mary and Joseph are models of faith. Are you ready to believe in the promises of God? It can be difficult when our lives plummet downward and appear to be without hope. God has not left us alone. He has a plan. Start each day with a joyful heart! Let us renew our faith and hope in God and His plan for our lives!
Prayer:
Dear Lord Jesus, You came to save us from sin. May we always rejoice in your salvation and trust in your plan for our lives. Amen
Saturday, September 22, 2012
Romans 15:6 Tolerance For Others
Romans 15:6 (NIV)
6 so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Our God understands that we're all different. He comes to us through many channels. Some folks are Presbyterian, others Methodist, still others are non-denominational. We need to remember that God alone controls our hearts and minds. When we read and study His word he enables us to think the same things, and to be of the same judgment. This intertwines our individual paths so that all praise and adoration to him, might join together for the sweetest harmony in every act of religious worship and praise!
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, We come to you today in praise and thanksgiving. We ask that you help us to understand that you speak to us in many different ways and that all paths that lead to you are the right path! Amen
6 so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Our God understands that we're all different. He comes to us through many channels. Some folks are Presbyterian, others Methodist, still others are non-denominational. We need to remember that God alone controls our hearts and minds. When we read and study His word he enables us to think the same things, and to be of the same judgment. This intertwines our individual paths so that all praise and adoration to him, might join together for the sweetest harmony in every act of religious worship and praise!
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, We come to you today in praise and thanksgiving. We ask that you help us to understand that you speak to us in many different ways and that all paths that lead to you are the right path! Amen
Friday, September 21, 2012
Matthew 24:44 Be Prepared
Matthew 24:44 (NIV)
44 So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.
It's pretty easy to get caught up in the business of living life. There are always bills to pay, schedules to keep, difficulties to overcome, children to feed, and the list goes on and on. This regimen of living life makes it easy to lose sight of the bigger picture. It seems so long ago to us that Jesus lived and died, it's hard to imagine him returning in our lifetime. We lose our sense of urgency, passion and expectation as the evryday living of life interfers. Jesus wants us to always be ready. He is forever at the door just waiting to usher us into his promised Kingdom. It's not our job to worry about when, but it is our job to be ready at any moment. We're to live our lives full of holy, good deeds, and thoughts in excited anticipation of His coming for us. His light is forever in our hearts and its our job to keep it shining as we prepare for His coming.
PRAYER: Dear Lord Jesus, Thank you for giving Yourself so that I can be saved. Because of Your sacrifice, I 'm not afraid of your return. Because I live in Your light, I know I will be safe . In Your Name. Amen.
It's pretty easy to get caught up in the business of living life. There are always bills to pay, schedules to keep, difficulties to overcome, children to feed, and the list goes on and on. This regimen of living life makes it easy to lose sight of the bigger picture. It seems so long ago to us that Jesus lived and died, it's hard to imagine him returning in our lifetime. We lose our sense of urgency, passion and expectation as the evryday living of life interfers. Jesus wants us to always be ready. He is forever at the door just waiting to usher us into his promised Kingdom. It's not our job to worry about when, but it is our job to be ready at any moment. We're to live our lives full of holy, good deeds, and thoughts in excited anticipation of His coming for us. His light is forever in our hearts and its our job to keep it shining as we prepare for His coming.
PRAYER: Dear Lord Jesus, Thank you for giving Yourself so that I can be saved. Because of Your sacrifice, I 'm not afraid of your return. Because I live in Your light, I know I will be safe . In Your Name. Amen.
Thursday, September 20, 2012
Mark 9:36-37 How's your heart?
Mark 9:36-37(NIV)
36 He took a little child whom he placed among them. Taking the child in his arms, he said to them37 “Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me.”
Join on facebook: http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/christiandailydevotionsHow we treat folks that can't benefit us determines the condition of our heart. Children were not considered important in society in Biblical times. Considering that daycare workers and teachers are still among the lowest paid professional folks it would seem that we don't feel much differently about children today. So Jesus is reminding his disciples and us that we need to welcome and love everyone regardless of the benefit to ourselves. How we treat folks reflects the condition of our hearts. How's your heart?
Prayer: Dear Father, Thank you for the reminder to value folks where others find no value. Allow the light from your love shine onto all that I come in contact with daily. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Romans 8:28 His Purpose!
Romans 8:28 (NIV)28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
God is working in our lives to fulfill his purpose. Rely on God for your decisions and listen to his wise counsel. The word “purpose” suggests a deliberate plan; something planned in advance. How is God working through you and your issues of life?
We can depend and rely on him to do what he promises, even when the events in our lives don't appear to have his loving hand. The real issue is whether or not we choose to truly love him and live for his purposes when life becomes unbearable and faith becomes hard. This verse is the life long hope for those with faith who choose to persevere when there is no apparent reason for doing so. Faith is rooted in a Savior who triumphed over death, rose on the third day while we find ourselves caught up on the problems of today instead of acting in faith.
Prayer...Dear Lord, Give me courage, and faith. Let me know that your hand is in all things and work for the purpose of Your plan. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
Thoughts for a rainy Tuesday!
A thought for a rainy Tuesday...
"You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore."-Psalm 16:11 A rainy Tuesday is perfect for expressing the joy of knowing the Lord. I'd like for all to know and feel what I have in my heart. I find that spending time in prayer, worship, reading and studying His word, fellowhipping with other Christians, making His sanctuary my home and things that matters to Him my things; the more I do the more I experience His joy and pleasures. This joy is different from the joys of this world because Jesus refers to it as, "My joy" in John 15:11.. And this joy can only be found in Jesus through our personal relationship and commitment to Him.I invite you to make Him first in your life. Start your day in prayer and quiet meditation. The blessings will unfold as your journey deepens and you thirst for more. The joy will soon multiply and spill into everything you do!
Prayer: Great and wonderous Lord, Please guide my footsteps to a closer journey with you! Amen
"You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore."-Psalm 16:11 A rainy Tuesday is perfect for expressing the joy of knowing the Lord. I'd like for all to know and feel what I have in my heart. I find that spending time in prayer, worship, reading and studying His word, fellowhipping with other Christians, making His sanctuary my home and things that matters to Him my things; the more I do the more I experience His joy and pleasures. This joy is different from the joys of this world because Jesus refers to it as, "My joy" in John 15:11.. And this joy can only be found in Jesus through our personal relationship and commitment to Him.I invite you to make Him first in your life. Start your day in prayer and quiet meditation. The blessings will unfold as your journey deepens and you thirst for more. The joy will soon multiply and spill into everything you do!
Prayer: Great and wonderous Lord, Please guide my footsteps to a closer journey with you! Amen
Monday, September 17, 2012
He's always with us!
Isaiah 43:5, "Do not be afraid, for I am with you. I will gather you and your children from east and west."(NLT)
I'm amazed by the thread that flows throught the Bible. Todays passage was a promise. Its a promise that God was with his people in Isaiah's time and its a promise for us today .It further states that it's a message for everyone. Folks tend to think that this only applies to the tribe of Judah going back to establish their nation in Palestine. But only one small part of the whole House of Israel had been gathered back at this time. The final gathering will take place when Jesus returns. This is going forward to the time when through salvation all the races and all the people are invited to know Jesus Christ. I find great comfort in knowing that God is always with his people.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you for always being with me even in those times that I don't deserve you and your comforting hand! Amen
I'm amazed by the thread that flows throught the Bible. Todays passage was a promise. Its a promise that God was with his people in Isaiah's time and its a promise for us today .It further states that it's a message for everyone. Folks tend to think that this only applies to the tribe of Judah going back to establish their nation in Palestine. But only one small part of the whole House of Israel had been gathered back at this time. The final gathering will take place when Jesus returns. This is going forward to the time when through salvation all the races and all the people are invited to know Jesus Christ. I find great comfort in knowing that God is always with his people.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you for always being with me even in those times that I don't deserve you and your comforting hand! Amen
Sunday, September 16, 2012
When thoughts become words...
THE UNTAMABLE TONGUE James 3:1-12
1 My brethren, let not many of you become teachers, knowing that we shall receive a stricter judgment. 2 For we all stumble in many things. If anyone does not stumble in word, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle the whole body. 3 Indeed, we put bits in horses’ mouths that they may obey us, and we turn their whole body. 4 Look also at ships: although they are so large and are driven by fierce winds, they are turned by a very small rudder wherever the pilot desires. 5 Even so the tongue is a little member and boasts great things. See how great a forest a little fire kindles! 6 And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity. The tongue is so set among our members that it defiles the whole body, and sets on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire by hell. 7 For every kind of beast and bird, of reptile and creature of the sea, is tamed and has been tamed by mankind. 8 But no man can tame the tongue. It is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison. 9 With it we bless our God and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in the similitude of God. 10 Out of the same mouth proceed blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be so. 11 Does a spring send forth fresh water and bitter from the same opening? 12 Can a fig tree, my brethren, bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Thus no spring yields both salt water and fresh.
James shows his deep concern about the damage that can be done by allowing the tongue to run wild. This is so important that we must often take a look at the untamable tongue. We can easily understand why the tongue can be called untamable. We may become angry and want to hurt someone or something, but we usually can hold back. Not so with our words. Words that are sharp as a dart piercing into the intended target. Not only can the tongue be sharp, but it is often its dipped in poison. Words filled with deceit, with lies, with lust, with prejudice, with envy, with greed, and with a desire of self-gratification are proof of the added poison.
A misspoken word can bring great sorrow and or destruction. James compares this with a spark or a tiny ember that can turn into a fire burning many acres of a forest. When we have spoken words that have caused harm or have led people away from God instead of to Him, It can spead just as easily.
We need to admit that the words that come out have had some base from within us or they would not have flowed so easily. We need to ask ourselves, can tame our thoughts before they become words? James would answer, Yes. He would say not only can it be tamed, it must be tamed. The concern that James has is that those he writes to, as well as you and me, have counted it Joy when we have gone through trials, have found our base in Christ, and seek to serve Him, yet our tongues can run wild. He uses the example of the fig tree and reminds us that the fig tree cannot produce an olive, only figs. If we have indeed grown in our faith, if we indeed ask God to be the Lord of our lives, if we pray that we might be like Him and serve Him, then the only fruit that can come from our lives is Love. We are told that God’s love can conquer all things; thus it is only God’s Love abiding in us that can tame the seemingly untamable tongue.Amen~
Action:
1 My brethren, let not many of you become teachers, knowing that we shall receive a stricter judgment. 2 For we all stumble in many things. If anyone does not stumble in word, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle the whole body. 3 Indeed, we put bits in horses’ mouths that they may obey us, and we turn their whole body. 4 Look also at ships: although they are so large and are driven by fierce winds, they are turned by a very small rudder wherever the pilot desires. 5 Even so the tongue is a little member and boasts great things. See how great a forest a little fire kindles! 6 And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity. The tongue is so set among our members that it defiles the whole body, and sets on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire by hell. 7 For every kind of beast and bird, of reptile and creature of the sea, is tamed and has been tamed by mankind. 8 But no man can tame the tongue. It is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison. 9 With it we bless our God and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in the similitude of God. 10 Out of the same mouth proceed blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be so. 11 Does a spring send forth fresh water and bitter from the same opening? 12 Can a fig tree, my brethren, bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Thus no spring yields both salt water and fresh.
James shows his deep concern about the damage that can be done by allowing the tongue to run wild. This is so important that we must often take a look at the untamable tongue. We can easily understand why the tongue can be called untamable. We may become angry and want to hurt someone or something, but we usually can hold back. Not so with our words. Words that are sharp as a dart piercing into the intended target. Not only can the tongue be sharp, but it is often its dipped in poison. Words filled with deceit, with lies, with lust, with prejudice, with envy, with greed, and with a desire of self-gratification are proof of the added poison.
A misspoken word can bring great sorrow and or destruction. James compares this with a spark or a tiny ember that can turn into a fire burning many acres of a forest. When we have spoken words that have caused harm or have led people away from God instead of to Him, It can spead just as easily.
We need to admit that the words that come out have had some base from within us or they would not have flowed so easily. We need to ask ourselves, can tame our thoughts before they become words? James would answer, Yes. He would say not only can it be tamed, it must be tamed. The concern that James has is that those he writes to, as well as you and me, have counted it Joy when we have gone through trials, have found our base in Christ, and seek to serve Him, yet our tongues can run wild. He uses the example of the fig tree and reminds us that the fig tree cannot produce an olive, only figs. If we have indeed grown in our faith, if we indeed ask God to be the Lord of our lives, if we pray that we might be like Him and serve Him, then the only fruit that can come from our lives is Love. We are told that God’s love can conquer all things; thus it is only God’s Love abiding in us that can tame the seemingly untamable tongue.Amen~
Action:
If you slip up and say something to someone that hurts them or is not true, don’t just let it go or forget about it. Once you think about it and realize the error make amends. Send a note or talk to that person, apologize, ask for forgiveness for what you said. Let God’s love overshadow and heal the hurt or misinformation that can come from the untamable tongue.
Prayer: Dear Lord, Please guide our thoughts so that the words we speak show your love! ~Amen
Saturday, September 15, 2012
Love In Action
Romans 12:9-13
New International Version (NIV)
Love in Action
9 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13 Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
Often the difficulty we have with scripture is not because we don't understand it but instead we're unwilling to put those truths into practice. When we look at Romans 12:9-13 it's direct, to the point and easy to understand. Maybe it's the simplicity that makes it difficult for us to follow. Or maybe its an unwillingness to give up a way of life where we put ourselves first. We need to put God first. When we put God first in our lives it becomes easier to put love in action.
It's easy to lose focus but be sincere in your pursuit of following Jesus. Start the day in prayer and reading his word. Put his word into action by word and deed. God will bless you!
Heavenly Father,
Please enable me to love boldly. May your love and grace be reflected in both my actions and my words. Let the hope that I have in you speak to the folks you put in my path on my journey. Amen.
Friday, September 14, 2012
Its a personal choice....Choose Good!
Romans 12:2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. (NKJV)
Its a personal choice. When we chose good we're pure in thought, word and deed. When we chose bad we become filled with lewdness,lustful deceitful thinking, we're incapable of grasping the spirit of Jesus..
Its imperative to fill ourselves with God’s Word . Focusing on scripture leaves no room for evil. God will deal with folks that chose to not follow His commandments in His time.Prayer for the cleansing of sick hearts and minds that allow dark unholy thoughts to fill their hearts and souls. I pray for God’s light to fill every heart, leaving no room for the darkness.. I pray for those folks who cannot lift themselves out of the darkness. May God be their judge and salvation through Jesus Christ!
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, May the folks that have not experienced your love and grace in their lives.. I pray for your grace to fill them and lead them to living life to the fullest. ~Amen!
Its a personal choice. When we chose good we're pure in thought, word and deed. When we chose bad we become filled with lewdness,lustful deceitful thinking, we're incapable of grasping the spirit of Jesus..
Its imperative to fill ourselves with God’s Word . Focusing on scripture leaves no room for evil. God will deal with folks that chose to not follow His commandments in His time.Prayer for the cleansing of sick hearts and minds that allow dark unholy thoughts to fill their hearts and souls. I pray for God’s light to fill every heart, leaving no room for the darkness.. I pray for those folks who cannot lift themselves out of the darkness. May God be their judge and salvation through Jesus Christ!
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, May the folks that have not experienced your love and grace in their lives.. I pray for your grace to fill them and lead them to living life to the fullest. ~Amen!
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