Verse and Thought for Today

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The Lord disciplines those whom he loves, and chastises every child whom he accepts.

Hebrews 12:6

Who loves his child more--the father who allows the child to do what will harm him, or the one who corrects, trains, and even punishes the child to help him learn what is right? It's never pleasant to be corrected and disciplined by God, but his discipline is a sign of his deep love for you. When God corrects you, see it as proof of his love and ask him what he is trying to teach you.

Don't resist God's discipline.

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With liberty comes responsibility.

1 Corinthians 8:9 NASB
But take care lest this liberty of yours somehow become
a stumbling block to the weak.

† Recovery Prayer †
Father,
Thank You for showing me what true freedom is.
Lead me into Your paths of righteousness that I
may cast off the chains of bondage. Keep me mindful
that with liberty comes responsibility. I will be accountable
to You and others. Amen.

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Proverbs 12:24 -- Work hard and become a leader; be lazy and become a slave. (NLT)

A leader? Yes, you. If you have any influence over anyone, then you are a leader. Today, what concrete things can you do, or plan to do, in order to become a better leader?

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— 1 Samuel 12:24 —

But be sure to fear the LORD and serve him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things he has done for you.

Take time to consider what great things God has done for you. Taking time for reflection allows us to focus our attention upon God's goodness and strengthens our faith. Sometimes we are so progress and future-oriented that we fail to take time to recall all that God has already done. Remember what God has done for you so that you may move ahead with gratitude.

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Isa 41:10 Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed,
for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you,
I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.' (NKJ)

Ps 27:1 The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?
The LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? (NKJ)

We thank God for giving us strength for our daily activities!

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February 8, 2008
A Sure Foundation
Feeling unsure or insecure as you face the continuous onslaught of change? Plant your feet and your faith on a solid foundation--your unchanging Lord.
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Hebrews 13:8

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For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes-- Jews first and also Gentiles.

Romans 1:16

Paul was not ashamed because his message was Good News. It was powerful, it was for everyone, and it was part of God's revealed plan. When you are tempted to be ashamed, remember what the Good News is all about. If you focus on God and on what God is doing in the world rather than on your own inadequacy, your embarrassment will soon disappear.

Share the Good News without shame or embarrassment!

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Sponsors are simply our guides.
We have to take the journey.
--Sail

Luke 12:48
For unto whomsoever much is given,
of him shall be much required.

† Recovery Prayer †
O Father,
Thank You for providing me with others to
guide me on my recovery journey. I will look
to them for direction but I understand that only
I can take the steps toward recovery. I have
to take the journey. Grant me the strength to
do so. In the name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

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Matthew 6:34 -- [Jesus says,] "Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." (NIV)

What keeps you up at night with worry? Can you give it to God?

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— Psalm 46:1-3 —

God is our refuge and strength,
an ever-present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way
and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,
though its waters roar and foam
and the mountains quake with their surging.

When we are in God's will, we're in his perfect love; and perfect love casts out fear (1 John 4:18). If you're fearful today, perhaps you're underestimating the keeping power of his care and concern for you.

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Prov 16:3 Commit your works to the LORD, and your thoughts
will be established. (NKJ)

Isa 26:3 You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is
stayed on You, because he trusts in You. (NKJ)

Our thoughts will be established as we live for God. Instead of
thoughts bouncing around, we have perfect peace through our Lord Jesus Christ.

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2/9

For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes-- Jews first and also Gentiles.

Romans 1:16

Paul was not ashamed because his message was Good News. It was powerful, it was for everyone, and it was part of God's revealed plan. When you are tempted to be ashamed, remember what the Good News is all about. If you focus on God and on what God is doing in the world rather than on your own inadequacy, your embarrassment will soon disappear.

Share the Good News without shame or embarrassment!

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Redemption is not just about being saved from sin, it is
also about being saved TO something -- to resume the
task for which we were originally created.

1 Peter 2:9 RSV
But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy
nation, God's own people, that you may declare the
wonderful deeds of him who called you out of darkness
into his marvelous light

† Recovery Prayer †
Father,
I will not fear, for You have redeemed me. You have
called me out of the darkness and led me into Your
marvelous light. May I honor and please you every day
of my life. Amen.

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Prayer: Don't give God instructions - just report for duty!

John 15:16 RSV
You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed
you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit
should abide; so that whatever you ask the Father in my
name, he may give it to you.

† Recovery Prayer †
Lord,
When I pray, give me a heart to listen. Open my ears,
my mind and my heart to receive direction from You.
I report for duty. Guide me in Your everlasting ways. Amen.

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1 Timothy 2:5 -- For there is only one mediator who can reconcile God and people. He is the man Christ Jesus. (NLT)

When you are separated from God by sin, only one person in the universe can bring the two of you together again. What can you say to Jesus to help bridge the gap between you and God?

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— 1 John 4:7-8 —

Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.

"The rule for all of us is perfectly simple. Do not waste time bothering whether you 'love' your neighbor; act as if you do. As soon as we do this we find one of the greatest secrets. When you are behaving as if you loved someone, you will presently come to love him. If you injure someone you dislike, you will find yourself disliking him more. If you do him a good turn, you will find yourself disliking him less."

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February 10, 2008
Growing through Pain
How will you know the depth of your character? God allows pain to help his people mature. The key is to turn to God and rely on him for endurance.
When your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. James 1:3

We know that [trials] are good for us--they help us learn to endure. Romans 5:3

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No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.

1 Corinthians 2:9

We cannot imagine all that God has in store for us both in this life and for eternity. He will create a new heaven and a new earth, and we will live with him forever. Until then, his Holy Spirit comforts and guides us. Knowing that heaven awaits us should give us hope and courage to press on in this life, to endure hardship, and to avoid giving in to temptation.

This world is not all there is--God has unimaginable blessings in store for you.

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What we fail to see when we compare ourselves with others
is what stage they're in with God at that moment and what
stage we're in. I may be being tested at the moment, but I
shouldn't expect everyone around me to be tested at the
same time or in the same area. If everyone is faring alike,
there is no test. The test comes when we see others driving
cars and we only have a bike, or we have to walk.

-- Loren Cunningham
Daring to Live on the Edge


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Exodus 20:17 NASB
You shall not covet your neighbor's house; you shall not covet
your neighbor's wife or his male servant or his female servant or
his ox or his donkey or anything that belongs to your neighbor.
[ 10th Commandment]

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Philippians 3:10-11 -- I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection from the dead. (NIV)

The most important thing in life is to know Christ. The best way to get to know Him is to read the Bible and talk to Him in prayer. What is something you have learned about Christ this week?

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— Ephesians 3:14-19 —

For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom his whole family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge — that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

God's love is total. It reaches every corner of our experience. It is wide — it covers the breadth of our own experience, and it reaches out to the whole world. God's love is long — it continues the length of our lives. It is high — it rises to the heights of our celebration and elation. His love is deep — it reaches to the depths of our discouragement, despair, and even death. When you feel shut out or isolated, remember that you can never be lost to God's measurable and inexhaustible love.

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February 11, 2008
Handpicked
Imagine that your heavenly Father has an apple orchard. He watches his apples grow, tenderly prunes the tree, and, at the perfect moment, he picks the fruit--ripe and ready to be enjoyed.
Long ago, even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes. Ephesians 1:4

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He [the Lord] will be the stability of your times, abundance of salvation, wisdom, and knowledge.

Isaiah 33:6

In preparation for famine, war, or siege, provisions were stockpiled to be released when conditions required. If Judah would change the direction of its life, its attitudes, and its actions, God would release his overflowing "strength of salvation." God's treasuries have more than we need, and he supplies wisdom and salvation to those who recognize him and respect his authority.

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Treating each other with fairness, honesty and charity,
crowned with humility, should always be our aim.

Micah 6:8
He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good;
and what doth the LORD require of thee,
but to do justly, and to love mercy,
and to walk humbly with thy God.

† Recovery Prayer †
My God,
You have been merciful to me, may I be merciful
to others. Crown me with humility that I will always
treat others with fairness, honesty and charity. Amen.

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Some people are so busy being good they forget that we
are supposed to be busy *doing* good.

James 1:23-25
For if any one is a hearer of the word and not a doer,
he is like a man who observes his natural face in a mirror;
for he observes himself and goes away and at once forgets
what he was like. But he who looks into the perfect law,
the law of liberty, and perseveres, being no hearer that forgets
but a doer that acts, he shall be blessed in his doing.

† Recovery Prayer †
Lord,
You have spoken to my heart and redeemed me. I have
had spiritual awakening and desire to carry Your message
to others, and to practice Your principles in all my affairs.
Amen.

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Exodus 35:35 -- "[God] has filled them with skill to do all kinds of work as craftsmen, designers, embroiderers in blue, purple and scarlet yarn and fine linen, and weavers - all of them master craftsmen and designers." (NIV)

As a painter uses many colors to create a masterpiece, God uses many gifted people, including you, to accomplish His cosmic design. Do you consider yourself a gifted person? Why or why not?

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— Colossians 3:17 —

And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Lord of all pots and pans and things,
Since I have no time to be
A Saint by doing lovely things
Or watching late with thee,
Or dreaming in the dawnlight,
Or storming heaven's gates,
Make me a saint by getting meals
And washing up the plates.
— Anonymous

What Must I Do To Be Saved?

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Ps 29:2, 11 2 Give unto the LORD the glory due to His name;
worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness.
11 The LORD will give strength to His people; the LORD will bless
His people with peace. (NKJ)

Ps 68:35 O God, You are more awesome than Your holy places.
The God of Israel is He who gives strength and power to His people.
Blessed be God! (NKJ)

We praise and worship our God. We thank God for giving us
strength and power through the Holy Spirit.

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February 12, 2008
God's Pleasure
Did you know God enjoys you? It was his idea to bring you into his family. Have you chosen to accept the sacrifice of his Son, for you?
His unchanging plan has always been to adopt us into his own family . . . through Jesus Christ. And this gave him great pleasure. Ephesians 1:5

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Not even a sparrow, worth only half a penny, can fall to the ground without your Father knowing it.

Matthew 10:29

Jesus said that God cares for the sparrow's every need, and we are far more valuable to God than these little birds, so valuable that God sent his only Son to die for us (John 3:16). You are of great worth to God. You are never lost in his inventory.

Don't be afraid of difficult times; God's love and Spirit will never leave you.

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A new life in recovery requires new thoughts and
attitudes--new ways of looking at things.

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Matthew 9:16-17 NASB
"But no one puts a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment; for the patch pulls away from the garment, and a worse tear results. Nor do men put new wine into old wineskins; otherwise the wineskins burst, and the wine pours out, and the wineskins are ruined; but they put new wine into fresh wineskins, and both are preserved."

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Ephesians 3:20 -- Now glory be to God! By his mighty power at work within us, he is able to accomplish infinitely more than we would ever dare to ask or hope. (NLT)

Wow! What is your spiritual dream?

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Rom 15:13 Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and
peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. (NKJ)

Isa 55:12 "For you shall go out with joy, and be led out with peace;
the mountains and the hills shall break forth into singing before you,
and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands. (NKJ)

God’s joy and peace belongs to each Christian as we live whole heartedly for Him.

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February 13, 2008
God's Presence
When the sun comes out after rain, its radiance bathes us in warmth. To come into a relationship with God is to know what sunshine really feels like.
This is the message he has given us to announce to you: God is light and there is no darkness in him at all. 1 John 1:5

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May those who sow in tears reap with shouts of joy.

Psalm 126:5

God's capacity for restoring life is beyond our understanding. Forests burn down and are able to grow back. Broken bones heal. Even grief is not a permanent condition. Our tears can be seeds that will grow into a harvest of joy because God is able to bring good out of tragedy. When burdened by sorrow, know that your times of grief will end and that you will again find joy.

Be patient--God's great harvest of joy is coming!

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Remember that sin desensitizes you to itself. Watch -- that is,
prepare to recognize it, and search it out within you by disciplined,
Bible-based, Spirit-led self examination. Focus on the living
Christ and his love for you on the cross. Pray, asking for
strength to say "No" to sin's suggestions and to fortify yourself
And ask Christ to kill the sinful urge you are fighting.
-- J. I. Packer

Romans 5:11
Count yourselves also to be truly dead to sin, but alive to
God through Jesus Christ our Lord

† Recovery Prayer †
Lord Jesus,
I am dead to sin but alive to God through Your sacrifice for
me. Keep me alert to deceit and strengthen me in the face
of temptation. Fortify me to say "no" to all enticements of
Satan.

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James 4:11 -- Don't speak evil against each other, my dear brothers and sisters. If you criticize each other and condemn each other, then you are criticizing and condemning God's law. (NLT)

You will have many opportunities today to say bad things about the people around you: the officer who gave you a ticket, the co-worker who laughed at your idea, the cashier who rang up your donuts wrong. Or you can choose to forgive and be kind. What good can you speak about someone today?

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— Proverbs 13:19 —

A longing fulfilled is sweet to the soul,
but fools detest turning from evil.

Whether a "longing fulfilled" is good or bad depends on the nature of the desire. It is "sweet to the soul" to achieve worthwhile goals, but not all your goals are worth pursuing. When you set your heart on something, you may lose your ability to assess it objectively. With your desire blinding your judgement, you may proceed with an unwise relationship, a wasteful purchase, or a poorly conceived plan. Faithfulness is a virtue, but stubbornness is not.

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Eccl 9:10a Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might (NKJ)

1 Chr 28:20 And David said to his son Solomon, "Be strong and of good courage, and do it; do not fear nor be dismayed, for the LORD God-- my God-- will be with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you, until you have finished all the work for the service of the house of the LORD. (NKJ)

We are thankful for God helping us in our endeavors.

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February 14, 2008
Hot Pursuit
Jesus is not passive in his intentions. Like one newly in love, he wants to know you deeply and lavish on you his constant attention.
Look! Here I stand at the door and knock. If you hear me calling and open the door, I will come in, and we will share a meal as friends. Revelation 3:20

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May you have the power to understand . . . how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love really is.

Ephesians 3:18

God's love is total. It reaches every corner of our experience. It is long--it continues the length of our life. It is deep--it reaches to the depths of discouragement, despair, and even death. It is wide--it covers the breadth of our own experience, and it reaches out to the whole world. It is high--it rises to the heights of our celebration and elation.

When you feel shut out or isolated, remember that you can never be lost to God's love.

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For until men recognize that they owe everything to God,
that they are nourished by his fatherly care, that he is the
Author of their every good, that they should seek nothing
beyond him – they will never yield him willing service. Nay,
unless they establish their complete happiness in him, they
will never give themselves truly and sincerely to him.
-- John Calvin, The Institutes of the Christian Religion

John 17:3 RSV
And this is eternal life, that they know thee the only
true God, and Jesus Christ whom thou hast sent

† Recovery Prayer †
Father,
I owe everything to You. You nourish me with Your
fatherly care. You are the Author of every good. There
is nothing more that I need to seek. May I establish my
complete happiness in You. Amen.

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1 Corinthians 13:7 -- Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance. (NLT)

True love has very little to do with candles, flowers, and warm, fuzzy feelings. True love is tough. It hangs on. It lasts. What do you do when you start to feel bored with a relationship? What should you do?

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— 1 John 3:16 —

This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers.

Real love is action, not a feeling. It produces selfless, sacrificial giving. The greatest act of love is giving oneself for others. How can we lay down our lives? By serving others with no thought of receiving anything in return. Sometimes it is easier to say we'll die for others than to truly live for them — this involves putting others' desires first. How clearly do your actions say you really love others?

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Rev 22:12 "And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward
is with Me, to give to every one according to his work. (NKJ)

Luke 17:24 "For as the lightning that flashes out of one part under
heaven shines to the other part under heaven, so also the Son of
Man will be in His day. (NKJ)

Lets always be ready for the sudden and soon return of our Lord Jesus Christ!

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February 15, 2008
Accepting Help
It's easy to remember that you're supposed to serve others. It's harder to let others serve you. God wants to show you his love through his people; don't be afraid to ask them for help!
If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But people who are alone when they fall are in real trouble. Ecclesiastes 4:10

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It is not within the power of man to map his life and plan his course--so you correct me, Lord.

Jeremiah 10:23-24

God's ability to plan our lives well is infinitely beyond our ability. Sometimes we are afraid of God's power and God's plans, because we know his power would easily crush us if he used it against us. He does not do this, however, when we come to him for guidance.

Don't be afraid to let God correct your plans.

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When our deliverance is delayed, we may assume that
God hasn't answered our prayers. God hears every prayer,
but He answers according to His wisdom. Don't let the
absence of an immediate answer cause you to doubt or
resent God. Instead, let it be an occasion to deepen your
faith.

Psalm 35:13
Yet when they were ill, I grieved for them.
I denied myself by fasting for them,
But my prayers returned unanswered.

† Recovery Prayer †
Father God. We know You hear each and every prayer.
And You answer us according to Your perfect will for our
lives. May we continue to lean on You and seek Your Face.
In Jesus' Name, Amen.

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Matthew 6:19-20 -- [Jesus says,] "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy." (NIV)

People say, "You can't take it with you !" But they are wrong. There will be treasure in heaven, and we have to start storing it there now. What are you doing to make sure you will have treasure when you get to heaven?

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Matt 5:5 Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. (NKJ)

Ps 37:34 Wait on the LORD, and keep His way, and He shall exalt
you to inherit the land; when the wicked are cut off, you shall see it. (NKJ)

We trust God to make a way for us as we live wholeheartedly for Him.

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2/16

It is not within the power of man to map his life and plan his course--so you correct me, Lord.

Jeremiah 10:23-24

God's ability to plan our lives well is infinitely beyond our ability. Sometimes we are afraid of God's power and God's plans, because we know his power would easily crush us if he used it against us. He does not do this, however, when we come to him for guidance.

Don't be afraid to let God correct your plans.

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God created you and he created you for a
purpose. Even trees have a purpose. They
create shade, fruit and flowers. It is the same
with you. You have a purpose and you will
only find your purpose through Christ. Pray
and ask God to reveal your purposes to you.

Colossians 1:16
For Everything, absolutely everything, above
and below, visible or invisible... Everything got
started in him and finds its purpose in Him.

† Recovery Prayer †
Dear Lord,
Please reveal to my purpose to me and reveal
why that is your desire for me. Father please
help me to live for your purpose and to be more
like you in all I say and do. In Jesus' Name I pray,
Amen.

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Proverbs 10:5 -- A wise youth works hard all summer; a youth who sleeps away the hour of opportunity brings shame. (NLT)

This is the one chance you have to live, to laugh, to cry, to work, to try, to accomplish, to dream, to perform. Grab it. Seize it. Enjoy it. Celebrate it. Don't waste it. What opportunities do you see before you?

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February 17, 2008
Comfort amid Hardship
Many think that when God comforts us, our hardships will go away. But we must understand that comfort means receiving strength to deal with our hardships.
We are confident that as you share in suffering, you will also share God's comfort. 2 Corinthians 1:7

He is the source of every mercy and the God who comforts us. 2 Corinthians 1:3

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Be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.

Ephesians 4:32

God does not forgive us because we forgive others but out of his great mercy. As we come to understand his mercy, however, we will want to be like him. Having received forgiveness, we will pass it on to others. Those who are unwilling to forgive have not become one with Christ, who was willing to forgive even those who crucified him.

Let Christ's loving forgiveness be your model for forgiving others.

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Desert Thought
If I stand in the middle of a desert
And look up
Am I alone?
Are there not cataracts of Living Water
Forever reviving
My soul?
Is not the Bread of Heaven
Manna-like
Bestowed?
Angelic voices
Choir-like
Intoned?
A Cloud of Witnesses
Fire-bright
Shown?
The desert does not divide God's own.
--Roadrunner, Copyright 2007, all rights reserved

Psalm 36:9
For with thee is the fountain of life: in thy light shall we see light.

† Recovery Prayer †
Father,
Thank You for being my fountain of life. Even when I am
in the desert seasons, You provide nourishment for my
soul. You surround me with a great cloud of witnesses to
encourage and uphold me. The desert cannot divide God's
own! Amen.

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Jeremiah 1:5 -- [God says,] "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations." (NIV)

With so many people in the world, you may not feel important or special. You are! God worked very carefully to make you the unique, precious individual you are. When was the last time you felt special? How can you make someone else feel special today?

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February 18, 2008
The Church, Our Family
Are you alone, wondering where to turn for help? The church is a spiritual community that can--and should--support you through the tough times.
Is there any encouragement from belonging to Christ? . . . Then make me truly happy by agreeing whole-heartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one heart and purpose. Philippians 2:1-2

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All the days of the poor are hard, but a cheerful heart has a continual feast.

Proverbs 15:15

Our attitudes color our whole personality. We cannot always choose what happens to us, but we can choose our attitude toward each situation. The secret to a good attitude is filling our mind with thoughts that are true, pure, and lovely--thoughts that dwell on the good things in life. This was Paul's secret as he faced imprisonment, and it can be ours as we face the struggles of daily living. Examine what you allow to enter your mind and what you choose to dwell on. You may need to make some changes.

Do your attitudes provide you with a "continual feast"?

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Though our tears fall to the earth — yet
they reach heaven!

Psalm 6:8
The Lord has heard the voice of my weeping!

† Recovery Prayer †
O Father,
Even though I am bent over and weeping, my
tears falling to the ground, You receive them
in heaven. You count each tear drop and cup them
in Your mighty hands. Thank You for caring so
deeply about me and being a balm to my soul. Amen.

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Deny self-confidence ... he who trusts himself should
be left to himself! The vine, being weak, twists itself around
the oak to support it. A godly man, being conscious of
his own helplessness, twists by faith around Christ.

Philippians 4:13
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

† Recovery Prayer †
O Lord,
I used to be so self-confident. But I have learned through
the trials of life that I am like a helpless fish out of water.
May I twist myself, by faith, around You for the support
and strength I so desperately need. In Your holy name I
pray. Amen.

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Ephesians 4:28 -- Those who are stealing must stop stealing and start working. They should earn an honest living for themselves. Then they will have something to share with those who are poor. (NCV)

Feeling good about your wealth and possessions comes when you do good with your wealth and possessions. Why do you make money? How do you use it?

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II Ki 2:9 And so it was, when they had crossed over, that Elijah
said to Elisha, "Ask! What may I do for you, before I am taken
away from you?" Elisha said, "Please let a double portion of your
spirit be upon me." (NKJ)

Acts 1:8 "But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has
come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem,
and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth." (NKJ)

We can ask and be filled to overflowing with the Holy Spirit in our lives.
Just as God filled the 120 in the upper room on the Day of Pentecost,
e too can have the power of the Holy Spirit in our lives.

Luke 11:11-13
11 "If a son asks for bread from any father among you, will he give
him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will he give him a serpent instead of a fish?
12 "Or if he asks for an egg, will he offer him a scorpion?
13 "If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children,
how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!" (NKJ)

[admin]

February 19, 2008
God Runs to You
What is God like? In the story of the lost son, he is a patient, loving Father. Even when we turn against him, God has compassion on us.
While he was still a long distance away, his father saw him coming. Filled with love and compassion, he ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him. Luke 15:20

[admin]

Seek the LORD while you can find him. Call on him now while he is near.

Isaiah 55:6

God is not planning to move away from us, but we often move far from him or erect a barrier between ourselves and him. Don't wait until you have drifted away from God to seek him. Later in life turning to him may be far more difficult. Or God may come to judge the earth before you decide to seek him.

Call on God now, while you can--before it is too late!

[admin]

Deny self-confidence ... he who trusts himself should
be left to himself! The vine, being weak, twists itself around
the oak to support it. A godly man, being conscious of
his own helplessness, twists by faith around Christ.

Philippians 4:13
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

† Recovery Prayer †
O Lord,
I used to be so self-confident. But I have learned through
the trials of life that I am like a helpless fish out of water.
May I twist myself, by faith, around You for the support
and strength I so desperately need. In Your holy name I
pray. Amen.

[admin]

Philippians 1:6 -- God began a good work in you, and I am sure he will continue it until it is finished when Jesus Christ comes again. (NCV)

Sometimes you may feel like a failure. But God is not finished with you. He's got great plans for you. Looking back at your Christian walk, what progress can you see?

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— Hebrews 12:1-3 —

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

When we face hardship and discouragement, it is easy to lose sight of the big picture. But we're not alone, there is help. Many have already made it through life, enduring far more difficult circumstances than we have experienced. Suffering is the training ground for Christian maturity. It develops our patience and makes our final victory sweet.

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Ps 91:1 He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High
shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. (NKJ)

Ps 32:7 You are my hiding place; you shall preserve me from trouble;
you shall surround me with songs of deliverance. Selah (NKJ)

As we rely upon our Lord Jesus Christ and abide in Him,
we then rest in His preservation and deliverance.

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2/20

February 20, 2008
Jesus' Face
What makes us stand out from the world? We may not look any different, but we should act differently. When you show love, you look like Jesus--and people can see it.
All of you should be of one mind, full of sympathy toward each other, loving one another with tender hearts and humble minds. 1 Peter 3:8

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So whoever has God's Son has life; whoever does not have his Son does not have life.

1 John 5:12

Whoever believes in God's Son has eternal life. He is all you need. You don't need to wait, because eternal life begins today. You don't need to work for it, because it is already yours. You don't need to worry, because you have been given eternal life by God himself, and it is guaranteed.

The terms of salvation are clear. Do you have life?

[admin]

Be killing sin or it will be killing you.
-- John Owen

1 Corinthians 15:34
Awake to righteousness, and sin not.

† Recovery Prayer †
Heavenly Father,
Your Word clearly says, " The wages of sin is death;"
and it goes on to say, "but the gift of God is eternal life
through Jesus Christ our Lord." Make me aware of the
sins in my life so that I may do away with them. May I
kill all sin before it kills me. Amen.

[admin]

Matthew 24:46 -- [Jesus says,] "If the master returns and finds that the servant has done a good job, there will be a reward." (NLT)

Your highest goal is to be a good servant. It doesn't seem like a lofty career plan, but you'll be happy when the Master tells you you're doing a good job. Are you ready for the Master to return and examine your work?

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— Proverbs 1:7 —

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge,
but fools despise wisdom and discipline.

In this age of information, knowledge is plentiful, but wisdom is scarce. Wisdom means far more than simply knowing a lot. It is a basic attitude that affects every aspect of life. The foundation of knowledge is the fear of the Lord — to honor and respect God, to live in awe of his power, and to obey his Word. Faith in God should be the controlling principle for your understanding of the world, your attitudes and your actions. Trust in God — he will make you truly wise.

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Ps 63:7-8 7 Because You have been my help, therefore in the
shadow of Your wings I will rejoice. 8 My soul follows close
behind You; your right hand upholds me. (NKJ)

Ps 5:11 But let all those rejoice who put their trust in You;
let them ever shout for joy, because You defend them;
et those also who love Your name be joyful in You. (NKJ)

There is safety and help in staying close to our
Great Shepherd, the Lord Jesus Christ!

[admin]

February 21, 2008
First Things First
Sometimes God shows us ways we have hurt others. Asking them for forgiveness can help us draw close to God with a clear conscience. Is there someone with whom you need to be reconciled?
If . . . you suddenly remember that someone has something against you, leave your sacrifice there beside the altar. Go and be reconciled to that person. Matthew 5:23-24

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You shall rise before the aged, and defer to the old; and you shall fear your God.

Leviticus 19:32

People often find it easy to dismiss the opinions of the elderly and avoid taking time to visit with them. But the fact that God commanded the Israelites to honor the elderly shows how seriously we should take the responsibility of respecting those older than we. Their wisdom gained from experience can keep us from many pitfalls.

Who are the older people in your life? Make time for them this week.

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1 Samuel 16:7 -- [God says,] "...The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart." (NIV)

No amount of dieting, primping, shopping, or styling can make God love you more than He does already. When God looks at your heart, what does He see?

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— Romans 6:11-14 —

In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus. Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires. Do not offer the parts of your body to sin, as instruments of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God, as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer the parts of your body to him as instruments of righteousness. For sin shall not be your master, because you are not under law, but under grace.

God desires that each of his children grow in righteousness and reflect the nature of his Son Jesus Christ. He understands that maturing our faith is a lifelong process. Sometimes we will make mistakes and fall into sinful patterns from which we must be restored. Our Father is pleased to draw us back into a right relationship because his grace is infinite. No sin will ever be greater — or more frequent — than his capacity to forgive.

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Col 3:1-2 1 If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things
which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God.
2 Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. (NKJ)

Ps 91:14 Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver
him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name. (KJV)

Lets put God first in every area of our lives!

[admin]

February 22, 2008
True Freedom
What sin is holding you in its fist? You do not need to be a slave to it any longer! Tell Jesus about it. He will free you from its stranglehold and help you stand firmly against it.
If we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us. 1 John 1:9

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We don't go around preaching about ourselves; we preach Christ Jesus, the Lord.

2 Corinthians 4:5

The focus of Paul's preaching was Christ, not himself. When you witness, tell people about what Christ has done, and not about your abilities and accomplishments. People must be introduced to Christ, not to you. If you hear someone preaching himself or his own ideas rather than Christ, beware--he is a false teacher.

When you are in a teaching position, be careful to proclaim Christ and not yourself.

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There is no death of sin without the death of Christ.... Set
your faith on Christ for the killing of your sin.... By faith fill
your soul with understanding of the provision laid up in Jesus
Christ for this end and purpose, that all your lusts, this
very lust which entangles you right now, may be controlled.
-- John Owen [paraphrase]

1 John 3:6
Whosoever abideth in Him sinneth not.

† Recovery Prayer †
Lord Jesus,
You are my strength. You provide the weapons of Scripture,
prayer, the Holy Spirit and faith that carry me over and through
all temptation and cravings. Thank You for freeing me from the
bonds of slavery. Amen.

[admin]

As soldiers in Christ, we depend not on our own ability as
we seek victory in battle. We have no reason to fear the
enemy because it is God who fights the battle for us. Even
when the opposition appears larger than us and the battle
seems impossible to win, we are to put our confidence in
God who fights, not with us, but for us. We are also
guaranteed the victory in battle.

Deuteronomy 20:1-4
When you go out to war against your enemies, and see horses
and chariots and an army larger than your own, you shall not be
afraid of them, for the LORD your God is with you, who brought
you up out of the land of Egypt. And when you draw near to the
battle, the priest shall come forward and speak to the people
and shall say to them, `Hear, O Israel, today you are drawing
near for battle against your enemies: let not your heart faint. Do
not fear or panic or be in dread of them, for the LORD your God
is he who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies,
to give you the victory.'

† Recovery Prayer †
Father,
Many days I am unable to fight the good fight. Thank you for
fighting for me, for lifting up Your weapons in combat on my
behalf. Amen.

[admin]

Romans 8:16 -- For his Holy Spirit speaks to us deep in our hearts and tells us that we are God's children. (NLT)

You may doubt it at times. You may not feel it at times. You may think you do not deserve it at times. But somewhere in your soul there is a voice whispering, "You are my child." When have you heard God whisper your name this week?

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— Romans 6:14-18 —

What then? Shall we sin because we are not under law but under grace? By no means! Don't you know that when you offer yourselves to someone to obey him as slaves, you are slaves to the one whom you obeyÑwhether you are slaves to sin, which leads to death, or to obedience, which leads to righteousness? But thanks be to God that, though you used to be slaves to sin, you wholeheartedly obeyed the form of teaching to which you were entrusted. You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness.

Using Scripture, God's spirit challenges Christians to bring fleshy habits and thought patterns under submission. He illuminates the believer's mind with regard to biblical meaning and application. Therefore, the Word is useful for "teaching, for reproof, for correction, and training in righteousness" (2 Timothy 3:16). The is no self-help in the believer's life! We are to surrender to the work and way of God's Spirit. We are covered by divine grace and the Holy Spirit permanently dwells in us.

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Set your mind on things above

Col 3:1-2 1 If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God.
2 Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. (NKJ)

Ps 91:14 Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name. (KJV)

Lets put God first in every area of our lives!

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1Thes 5:15 See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone,
but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all. (NKJ)

Heb 12:14 Pursue peace with all people, and holiness,
without which no one will see the Lord: (NKJ)

We purpose to pursue peace and holiness in our lives and in our relationships.

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2/23

We don't go around preaching about ourselves; we preach Christ Jesus, the Lord.

2 Corinthians 4:5

The focus of Paul's preaching was Christ, not himself. When you witness, tell people about what Christ has done, and not about your abilities and accomplishments. People must be introduced to Christ, not to you. If you hear someone preaching himself or his own ideas rather than Christ, beware--he is a false teacher.

When you are in a teaching position, be careful to proclaim Christ and not yourself.

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Habakkuk 3:17-18 -- Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior. (NIV)

It can be deeply disappointing to invest in something for a long time, and then find out it doesn't produce. When this happens to you, how does it affect your relationship with God?

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— James 3:5-6 —

Likewise the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole person, sets the whole course of his life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.

We dare not be careless with what we say, thinking we can apologize later, because even if we do, the scars remain. A few words spoken in anger can destroy a relationship that took years to build. Before you speak, remember that words are like fire — you can neither control nor reverse the damage they do.

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Pursue peace with all people, and holiness

1Thes 5:15 See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all. (NKJ)

Heb 12:14 Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord: (NKJ)

We purpose to pursue peace and holiness in our lives and in our relationships.

[admin]

February 24, 2008
Godly Sorrow
Ever feel sad about your actions? The Holy Spirit often prompts us to let go of a sin we love to keep.
God can use sorrow in our lives to help us turn away from sin. 2 Corinthians 7:10

The old sinful nature loves to do evil, which is just opposite from what the Holy Spirit wants. Galatians 5:17

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God will control your present and your future
if you give Him your past.

Isaiah 43:18-19 TEV
But the LORD says, "Do not cling to events of the
past or dwell on what happened long ago. Watch
for the new thing I am going to do. It is happening
already -- you can see it now! I will make a road
through the wilderness and give you streams of
water there."

† Recovery Prayer †
Father God,
I take all the pain and suffering of my past and hand
it over to You. I can't handle it any longer. Take my
burdens from me and crush them once and for all in
Your mighty fists. In the name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

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I was disobedient –- and You became obedient;
I ate the forbidden fruit -– and You hung on the cursed tree;
evil lust drew me to eat the pleasant apple -–
and perfect love led You to drink of the bitter cup;
I tasted the sweetness of the fruit -–
and You tasted the bitterness of the gall.

O my God, here I see . . .
Your goodness -– and my vileness;
Your justice -– and my injustice.
-- Lewis Bayly, "The Practice of Piety" 1611

Romans 5:6
Christ died for the ungodly.

† Recovery Prayer †
O Lord,
Thank You for washing away my disobedience,
vileness and injustice with Your mercy and grace.
Without You, I am nothing. Amen.

[admin]

Listen, listen to the thunder of his voice and the rumbling that comes from his mouth.

Job 37:2

Nothing can compare to God. His power and presence are awesome, and when he speaks, we must listen. Too often we presume to speak for God (as did Job's friends), to put words in his mouth, to take him for granted, or to interpret his silence to mean that he is absent or unconcerned. But God cares. He is in control, and he will speak. Be ready to hear his message--in the Bible, in your life through the Holy Spirit, and through circumstances and relationships.

Be patient and be ready to hear God's messages to you.

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Isaiah 44:22 -- [God says,] "I have swept away your sins like the morning mists. I have scattered your offenses like the clouds. Oh, return to me, for I have paid the price to set you free." (NLT)

You may have said or done things in the past that left you feeling ashamed. But Christians live for the future instead of in the past. God has invited everyone -- even those with bad track records -- to turn to Him and be set free. What offenses and sins do you need to let God sweep away?

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— Hebrews 4:15-16 —

For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are — yet was without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.

You have a God who knows all your weaknesses and needs. He walked in your shoes. He knows it's hard! He delights to show you mercy and give you grace. He has compassion on you and sees your heart. Your need is not looked down on by him. You are his beloved child.

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Always be ready for the return of our Lord Jesus Christ!

Rev 22:7 "Behold, I am coming quickly! Blessed is he who keeps the words of the prophecy of this book." (NKJ)

Rev 3:11 "Behold, I am coming quickly! Hold fast what you have, that no one may take your crown. (NKJ)

Lets always be ready for the return of our Lord Jesus Christ!

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February 25, 2008
Ask Away!
Often our problem with prayer is not that we don't pray, but that our prayers are too small. God's will is a grand thing--bold prayers that seek what God seeks will be answered.
We can be confident that he will listen to us whenever we ask him for anything in line with his will. 1 John 5:14

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How wonderful it is, how pleasant, when brothers live together in harmony!

Psalm 133:1

Living in harmony does not mean we will agree on everything; there will be many opinions just as there are many notes in a harmonious chord of music. But we agree on our purpose in life--to work together for God. Our outward expression of unity should reveal our inward unity of purpose.

If you're not getting along with others, focus on the common goal of serving God.

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God does detest our prayers if we intend to go back to
our sin as soon as we get off our knees! When we forsake
our sin and follow Him, however, He willingly listens -- no
matter how bad our sin has been. What closes His ears
is not the depth of our sin but our secret intention to do
it again. God hears our intentions as clearly as He hears
our words in prayer.

Proverbs 28:9
God detests the prayers
Of a person who ignores the law.

† Recovery Prayer †
Father,
I come to You with a sincere heart. May I turn away
from my sin. I commit my life to You. In Jesus' Name,
Amen.

[admin]

Proverbs 25:16 -- If you find honey, eat just enough -- too much of it, and you will vomit. (NIV)

Sometimes less is more. Perhaps the good things of life taste better when they come around less frequently than we would choose. What can you do without today? What can you do with less of today?

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he who has clean hands will be stronger and stronger

Job 17:9 Yet the righteous will hold to his way, and he who has clean hands will be stronger and stronger. (NKJ)

Ps 24:4-5 4 He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who has not lifted up his soul to an idol, nor sworn deceitfully. 5 He shall receive blessing from the LORD, and righteousness from the God of his salvation. (NKJ)

Each of us can choose to have clean hands in the physical sense and in the spiritual

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Isa 61:10 I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be
joyful in my God; for He has clothed me with the garments of salvation,
he has covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom
decks himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels. (NKJ)

1 Cor 1:30 But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us
wisdom from God-- and righteousness and sanctification and redemption-- (NKJ)

Through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, we have righteousness,
that is right standing with God.

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February 26, 2008
Confident Trust
The Bible says it's foolish to put our trust in people. People will always fail us, but God never will. Only God is fully trustworthy and dependable.
Blessed are those who trust in the LORD and have made the LORD their hope and confidence. They are like trees planted along a riverbank. Jeremiah 17:7-8

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Do not seek your own advantage, but that of the other.

1 Corinthians 10:24

Sometimes it's hard to know when to defer to the weaker brother. Paul gave a simple rule of thumb to help in making the decision--we should be sensitive and gracious. While some actions may not be wrong, they may not be in the best interest of others. While we have freedom in Christ, we shouldn't exercise our freedom at the cost of hurting a Christian brother or sister. We are not to consider only ourselves, but we must be sensitive to others.

In making decisions, consider how they will affect others.

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I may not be where I want to be in recovery but
thank God, I am not where I used to be in my
addiction and dysfunctional living.

Hebrews 10:36
For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done
the will of God, ye might receive the promise.

† Recovery Prayer †
Almighty God,
I may feel discouraged or unhappy with my
progress in recovery. The going may be uphill
or painfully slow. Yet when I look back at where
I was, I see how very far I have come. Help me
to keep things in perspective, looking ever forward
toward the prize. Amen.

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John 3:16 -- "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." (NIV)

All you have to do is believe in Jesus, and you will have eternal life. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain! Do you believe in Jesus? If so, find a person you can share this life-giving message with today. Go for it!

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— Proverbs 15:13 —

A happy heart makes the face cheerful,
but heartache crushes the spirit.

"A smile is a little curve that can straighten out a lot of things."

[admin]

Through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, we have right standing with God.

Isa 61:10 I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for He has clothed me with the garments of salvation, he has covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decks himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels. (NKJ)

1 Cor 1:30 But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God-- and righteousness and sanctification and redemption-- (NKJ)

Through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, we have righteousness, that is right standing with God.

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Ps 94:22 But the LORD has been my defense,
and my God the rock of my refuge. (NKJ)

Ps 59:16 But I will sing of Your power; yes, I will sing aloud of
Your mercy in the morning; for You have been my defense and
refuge in the day of my trouble. (NKJ)

We rely on God to help us in all of our life's situations.

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February 27, 2008
Beautiful Music
As a perfectly blended quartet plays in flawless unison, so God wants his children to work together. Beautiful music is best made when each musician plays his or her part.
Live in harmony with each other. Don't try to act important, but enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don't think you know it all! Romans 12:16

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O Most High, when I am afraid, I put my trust in you.

Psalm 56:2-3

How much harm can people do to us? They can inflict pain, suffering, and death. But no person can rob us of our soul or our future beyond this life. How much harm can we do to ourselves? The worst thing we can do is to reject God and lose our eternal future. Instead, we should fear God, who controls this life and the next.

When you are afraid, put your trust in God, who controls the future.

[admin]

The Word of God is living, active, life changing and dynamic.
We must read it with hearts allowing the Holy Spirit to reveal
who we are and what we are not. Like a surgeon's fine instrument
it penetrates to the core of our being. It reveals and takes out the
bad and nurtures that which is good. Scripture challenges us and
requires decisions on our part.

Hebrews 4:12
For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than
any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of
soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner
of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

† Recovery Prayer †
Dear Father,
Open my heart to Your Word. May the Holy Spirit convict me
of the good and bad inside of me. Help me to cast out the
bad and to nurture the good. Transform me. Make me a new
creature in Jesus Christ. Amen.

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2 Timothy 3:16 -- All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It straightens us out and teaches us to do what is right. (NLT)

The Bible is God's instruction book to a great life. Keep reading it. What is one thing you have learned from the Bible recently? Share it with someone.

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— Psalm 16:11 —

You have made known to me the path of life;
you will fill me with joy in your presence,
with eternal pleasures at your right hand.

We can live a full life only when we seek God above all else. Pray for His guidance as you search your heart. Confess any sin or any aspirations that you give higher priority to than the Lord, and ask God to fill your life as only He can do.

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Isa 12:2 Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be
afraid: for the LORD JEHOVAH is my strength and my song;
he also is become my salvation. (KJV)

Ps 71:5 For thou art my hope, O Lord GOD: thou art my trust from my youth. (KJV)

As Christians, we choose to trust God in every area of our lives!

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February 28, 2008
Above the Din
When a multitude of voices clamors for our attention, how can we hear God's voice? Satan uses the things of this world to deceive us. But God's voice is always clear. His words speak comfort, not confusion.
For God is not a God of disorder but of peace. 1 Corinthians 14:33

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You spread out our sins before you--our secret sins--and you see them all.

Psalm 90:8

God knows all our sins as if they were spread out before him, even the secret ones. We don't need to cover up our sins before him because we can talk openly and honestly with him. God is not shocked by what we confess; he already knows it. But while he knows all that terrible information about us, God still loves us and wants to forgive us.

God forgives even your secret sins.

[admin]

Faith is a living, bold trust in God's grace.....

2 Timothy 1:14
And the grace of our LORD was exceeding abundant
with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.

† Recovery Prayer †
Lord,
Thank You for blessing me with faith and Your
amazing, exceedingly abundant grace. Amen.

[admin]

Matthew 6:33 -- [Jesus says,] "But seek first [God's] kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." (NIV)

There are so many responsibilities that can consume your time and priorities. Work. Family. Bills. Studies. Put God first, and He will take care of the rest of your needs. When is it hard for you to put God first?

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— John 4:13-14 —

Jesus answered, "Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life."

Our bodies desperately need water. When we have enough water in our system, we feel more content physically and more able to focus mentally. No matter how much water we drink, though, sooner or later we're going to feel thirsty again. When Jesus was on earth, he stood next to a well with a Samaritan woman and told her he could offer her water that would end her thirst for good. Today, his offering is the same — streams of new life welling up within us, renewing our spirit and satisfying our most deeply felt thirst. And with the water Jesus gives, we'll never thirst again.

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Prov 11:30 The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life,
and he who wins souls is wise. (NKJ)

Acts 1:8 "But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has
come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem,
and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth." (NKJ)

As Christians, we can have the fullness of the Holy Spirit to
empower us as witnesses for Jesus Christ.

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2/29

You spread out our sins before you--our secret sins--and you see them all.

Psalm 90:8

God knows all our sins as if they were spread out before him, even the secret ones. We don't need to cover up our sins before him because we can talk openly and honestly with him. God is not shocked by what we confess; he already knows it. But while he knows all that terrible information about us, God still loves us and wants to forgive us.

God forgives even your secret sins.

[admin]

When we seek forgiveness, we must recognize that we
do not deserve it and therefore cannot demand it. Even
though we cannot demand forgiveness, we can be confident
that we have received it because God is gracious and loving
and wants to restore us to Himself.

Ephesians 2:8
For by grace are ye saved through faith;
and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.

† Recovery Prayer †
Father,
I cannot earn forgiveness. In my heart of hearts,
I know that I do not even deserve it. Yet You are
gracious and loving, ever merciful. Thank You for
restoring me unto Yourself. Amen.

[admin]

Faith is God's work in us, that changes us and gives new birth
from God. It kills the Old Adam and makes us completely different
people. It changes our hearts, our spirits, our thoughts and all our
powers. It brings the Holy Spirit with it. Yes, it is a living, creative,
active and powerful thing, this faith.
-- Martin Luther

John 1:12-13 NASB
But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become
children of God, even to those who believe in His name, who were
born not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man,
but of God.

† Recovery Prayer †
O God,
Thank You for changing my heart, my spirit, my thoughts and
every part of me. Thank You for building my faith and giving me
a new birth. I lift my hands in praise to You. Amen.

[admin]

Psalms 28:7 -- The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song. (NIV)

God has given you an extra day this year! What daily gifts are you thankful for?

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— Psalm 90:1-2 —

Lord, you have been our dwelling place
throughout all generations.
Before the mountains were born
or you brought forth the earth and the world,
from everlasting to everlasting you are God. Every day the sun rises by God's permission. He's never had a wink of sleep. He's been through every day of your heritage. Many, O Lord, my God, are the wonders You have done. The things You planned for us, no one can recount to you. Were I to speak of them, they would be too many for me to declare (Psalm 40:5).

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Isa 40:31 But those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength;
they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not
be weary, they shall walk and not faint. (NKJ)

Ps 71:16 I will go in the strength of the Lord GOD; I will make
mention of Your righteousness, of Yours only. (NKJ)

God will increase our strength as we seek Him!

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No Guilt
March 1, 2008
When you enter into worship, a certain past sin may come to mind and cause you guilt. But if you've already confessed it to God, hold to his promise: You have been made perfectly clean.
The blood of Christ will purify our hearts from deeds that lead to death so that we can worship the living God. Hebrews 9:14

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My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever.

Psalm 73:26

From birth to death God has us continually in his grip. But far more, we have the hope of the Resurrection. Though our courage and strength may fail, we know that one day we will be raised to life to serve him forever. He is our security, and we must cling to him.

No matter what your physical condition or your age, God has you securely in his grip.

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When I consider that I am not in my own power, I offer
my heart a slain victim for a sacrifice to the Lord. . . .
I yield my soul chained and bound unto obedience to God.
-- John Calvin

1 John 5:2-3
By this we know that we love the children of God, when
we love God, and keep His commandments. For this is
the love of God, that we keep His commandments: and
His commandments are not grievous.

† Recovery Prayer †
Father,
I offer myself to You totally and completely, without
reservation. I will walk according to Your statutes.
They are not a burden to me for I love You beyond
what words can express. Amen.

[admin]

Exodus 14:14 -- "The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still." (NIV)

Is that all? Just be still? Yes. Calmly trust and hold your peace. That's all you need to do to see Him go to work for you. When was the last time you really let yourself be still?

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Saturday, March 1, 2008
— 1 Peter 3:15-16 —

But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.

Some Christians believe that faith is a personal matter that should be kept to oneself. It is true that we shouldn't be boisterous or obnoxious in sharing our faith, be we should always be ready to give an answer, gently and respectfully, when asked about our faith, our lifestyle or our Christian perspective. Can others see your hope in Christ? Are you prepared to tell them what Christ has done in your life?

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the fullness of the Holy Spirit to witness

Prov 11:30 The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and he who wins souls is wise. (NKJ)

Acts 1:8 "But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth." (NKJ)

As Christians, we can have the fullness of the Holy Spirit to empower us as witnesses for Jesus Christ.

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God Has Promised
March 2, 2008
Simeon believed God would show him the Messiah, but he waited 80 years. Can you trust God when it seems like he won't come through? Hold on--he is faithful.
[Simeon said,] "As you promised me, I have seen the Savior." Luke 2:29-30

All of the good promises that the LORD had given Israel came true. Joshua 21:45

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My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever.

Psalm 73:26

From birth to death God has us continually in his grip. But far more, we have the hope of the Resurrection. Though our courage and strength may fail, we know that one day we will be raised to life to serve him forever. He is our security, and we must cling to him.

No matter what your physical condition or your age, God has you securely in his grip.

[admin]

When I consider that I am not in my own power, I offer
my heart a slain victim for a sacrifice to the Lord. . . .
I yield my soul chained and bound unto obedience to God.
-- John Calvin

1 John 5:2-3
By this we know that we love the children of God, when
we love God, and keep His commandments. For this is
the love of God, that we keep His commandments: and
His commandments are not grievous.

† Recovery Prayer †
Father,
I offer myself to You totally and completely, without
reservation. I will walk according to Your statutes.
They are not a burden to me for I love You beyond
what words can express. Amen.

[admin]

1 Thessalonians 5:24 -- God, who calls you, is faithful; he will do this. (NLT)

God has started something special in your life. He will be faithful to complete what He has begun. What can you see God doing in your life?

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God will increase our strength as we seek Him!

Isa 40:31 But those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint. (NKJ)

Ps 71:16 I will go in the strength of the Lord GOD; I will make mention of Your righteousness, of Yours only. (NKJ)

God will increase our strength as we seek Him!

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3/3

I recall all you have done, O LORD; I remember your wonderful deeds of long ago. Psalm 77:11

Take time to remember what God has done for you.

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I will call to mind the deeds of the LORD; I will remember your wonders of old.

Psalm 77:11

Memories of God's goodness and faithfulness sustained the Israelites through their difficulties. They knew that God was capable and trustworthy. When you meet new trials, review the good things God has done for you, and this will strengthen your faith.

Take time to remember what God has done for you.

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It is choice, ... not chance,
that determines your destiny.

Matthew 6:24
No man can serve two masters: for either he
will hate the one, and love the other; or else
he will hold to the one, and despise the other.
Ye cannot serve God and mammon.

† Recovery Prayer †
Father,
Only those who are spiritually blind leave their
lives up to chance. Choices are always before me.
Give me a clear mind to choose wisely the paths
that will lead me to Your God ordained destiny for me.
In the name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

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Are we allowing Him to lead us up to the mountain
top of joy or are we going our own way, which leads
us to the valley of despair?

Proverbs 4:26-27
Ponder the path of thy feet,
and let all thy ways be established.
Turn not to the right hand nor to the left:
remove thy foot from evil.

† Recovery Prayer †
Lord God,
Your Word brings an ever flowing fountain of
love to my heart. Thank you for Your wise
precepts that that bring joy to my heart. Thank
You for lifting me up out of the valley of despair
and leading me to the mountain tops of joy. Amen.

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Romans 12:12 -- Be glad for all God is planning for you. Be patient in trouble, and always be prayerful. (NLT)

Are you excited about what God has in store, or are you worried that it won't be your idea of success? God can change your desires to be like His. What is your dream of success? What do you think God dreams for you?

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— Galatians 5:22-23 —

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.

LOVE — never fails
JOY — cometh
PEACE — rules
PATIENCE — waits
KINDNESS — tenders
GOODNESS — does
FAITHFULNESS — fights
GENTLENESS — bows
SELF-CONTROL — stops

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Ps 50:15 Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you,
and you shall glorify Me." (NKJ)

Ps 91:15 He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be
with him in trouble; I will deliver him and honor him. (NKJ)

As Christians, we can receive God's deliverance out of trouble!

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True Contentment
March 4, 2008
The world bombards us with messages telling us we need more money, more luxuries, more things. How can we escape the grip of our desires? Turn to Jesus. He offers a peace and contentment the world can never bring.
You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, whose thoughts are fixed on you! Isaiah 26:3

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Do you want more and more of God's kindness and peace? Then learn to know him better and better.

2 Peter 1:2

Many believers want more of God's kindness and peace, but they are unwilling to put forth the effort to get to know him better. To enjoy the privileges God offers us freely, we have to combine hard work with complete trust.

The key to kindness and peace in your life is knowing God better.

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Psalm 1:1-2 -- Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with scoffers. But they delight in doing everything the LORD wants; day and night they think about his law. (NLT)

It's a good idea for husbands and wives to read the Bible and pray together every day. You learn a lot about each other when you talk to God together. Do you have a consistent time of talking and listening to God with one other person?

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— 1 Corinthians 2:14-16 —

The man without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned. The spiritual man makes judgments about all things, but he himself is not subject to any man's judgment:
"For who has known the mind of the Lord
that he may instruct him?" But we have the mind of Christ.

Non-Christians cannot understand God, and they cannot grasp the concept that God's spirit lives in believers. Don't expect most people to approve of or understand your decision to follow Christ. It all seems silly to them. Just as a tone-deaf person cannot appreciate fine music, the person who rejects God cannot understand God's beautiful message. With the lines of communication broken, he or she won't be able to hear what God is saying to them.

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1 Cor 10:13 No temptation has overtaken you except such
as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow
you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation
will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it. (NKJ)

James 1:12 Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when
he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord
has promised to those who love Him. (NKJ)

As Christians, we daily say Yes to God and No to temptation.

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God vs. the World
March 5, 2008
When we are tempted, sin seems like the most wonderful thing in the world. But once we face its consequences, we realize how empty its promises were--and how much we need God.
I sinned, but it was not worth it. God rescued me from the grave, and now my life is filled with light. Job 33:27

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All deeds are right in the sight of the doer, but the LORD weighs the heart.

Proverbs 21:2

People can find an excuse for doing almost anything, but God looks behind the excuse to the motives of the heart. We often have to make choices in areas where the right action is difficult to discern. We can help ourselves make such decisions by trying to identify our motives first and then asking, "Would God be pleased with my real reasons for doing this?" God is not pleased when we do good deeds only to receive something in return.

Be sure the "good deeds" you're involved in are good in God's sight.

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He will guide and lead us but He won't make us
follow. He gives us a choice to follow Him, or to
follow Satan. Nobody can make that choice for us.
Each one of us has to make the decision to follow Him.

Joshua 24:15
Choose you this day whom ye will serve.

† Recovery Prayer †
Lord Jesus,
I refuse to follow Satan. I accept Your invitation
to holy living. The choice has been made to follow
You. From this day on, I choose to serve You.
Amen.

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John 15:5 -- [Jesus says,] "I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing." (NKJV)

There are a lot of ways to learn about God: stories you hear, messages in church, even books and radio. Or you can go straight to the source -- God Himself -- by reading the Book He wrote for you. What are you relying on in order to learn about God?

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Ps 5:8 Lead me, O LORD, in Your righteousness because of
my enemies; make Your way straight before my face. (NKJ)

Ps 43:3 Oh, send out Your light and Your truth! Let them lead me;
let them bring me to Your holy hill and to Your tabernacle. (NKJ)

We can trust God to lead us in our daily lives!

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Our Overcomer
March 6, 2008
God doesn't promise to protect us from problems on this earth. Instead he promises to give us the courage to face our problems with his strength.
Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world. John 16:33

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The Lord is good. When trouble comes, he is the place to go!

Nahum 1:7

To those who refuse to believe, God's punishment is like an angry fire. To those who love him, his mercy is security and peace, supplying all our needs without diminishing his supply. But to his enemies he is a flood that will sweep them away. The relationship we have is up to us. Which kind of relationship will you choose?

When trouble comes, the Lord is the place to go!

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This is not a race.
This is recovery.
-- Marine

Jeremiah 17:14
Heal me, O LORD, and I shall be healed;
save me, and I shall be saved: for Thou art my praise.

† Recovery Prayer †
Father God,
You help me to live victoriously. You give me the
strength and tenacity to continue in times of
difficulty and discouragement. Thank You for
showing me that this is not a race, this is recovery.
Thank You for leading me to wholeness. Amen.

[admin]

We are sure God wants us to be happy, joyous, and free.
We cannot subscribe to the belief that his life is a vale of
tears, though it once was just that for many of us. But it
is clear that we made our own misery. God didn't do it.
Avoid then, the deliberate manufacture of misery, but if
trouble comes, cheerfully capitalize it as an opportunity
to demonstrate His omnipotence.
-- Alcoholics Anonymous

Luke 4:18
He hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach
deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to
the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised.

† Recovery Prayer †
Father,
I have often made my own misery. Thank You for leading
me out of the darkness and into Your marvelous Light.
I now see that I am meant to be happy, joyous and free
even in the midst of burdensome circumstances. Amen.

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Isaiah 55:11 -- [God says,] "The same thing is true of the words I speak. They will not return to me empty They make the things happen that I want to happen, and they succeed in doing what I send them to do." (NCV)

The Bible is not just a collection of things God said a long time ago. His words are active and powerful. God makes things happen just by speaking. What is God saying to you today?

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— Romans 8:5 —

Those who live according to the sinful nature have their minds set on what that nature desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires.

"You are not what you think you are; but what you think, you are."

Take thou our minds,
dear Lord, we humbly pray,
Give us the mind of Christ
each passing day;
Teach us to know the truth
that sets us free;
Grant us in all our thoughts
to honor thee.
— William Foulkes, 1918

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Rom 8:31 What then shall we say to these things?
If God is for us, who can be against us? (NKJ)

Ps 27:1 The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?
The LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? (NKJ)

Through Jesus Christ, we are overcomers in life!

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Patient Trust
March 7, 2008
Sometimes our fears creep in because it seems like God is taking too long to answer us. Is he out there? Hold on--he will answer you, so you must trust him while you wait.
Wait patiently for the LORD. Be brave and courageous. Yes, wait patiently for the LORD. Psalm 27:14

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Be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an unexpected hour.

Luke 12:40

Christ's return at an unexpected time is not a trap, a trick by which God hopes to catch us off guard. In fact, God is delaying his return so more people will have a better chance to follow Christ. During this time before his return, we have the opportunity to live out our beliefs and to reflect Jesus' love as we relate to others.

Be diligent in serving Christ while you wait for his return.

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Jeremiah 6:16 -- This is what the LORD says: "Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls." (NIV)

Every crossroads represents a decision: Keep going in the same direction, or turn. Sometimes it's hard to tell which is best. Are you on the right path? How can you tell? Whom could you ask for direction?

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Matt 9:29 Then He touched their eyes, saying, "According
to your faith let it be to you." (NKJ)

Matt 21:21-22
21 So Jesus answered and said to them, "Assuredly, I say to you,
if you have faith and do not doubt, you will not only do what was
done to the fig tree, but also if you say to this mountain, 'Be removed
and be cast into the sea,' it will be done.
22 "And whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive." (NKJ)

As Christians, we can choose to believe God's Word. We trust God to
answer believing prayer through Jesus Christ!

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A Big Covenant
March 8, 2008
God is big on making promises. God is also big on keeping them.
I will continue this everlasting covenant between us, generation after generation. It will continue between me and your offspring forever. And I will always be your God and the God of your descendants after you. Genesis 17:7

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Pray much for others; plead for God's mercy upon them; give thanks for all he is going to do for them.

1 Timothy 2:1

Although God is all-powerful and all-knowing, he has chosen to let us help him change the world through our prayers. How this works is a mystery to us because of our limited understanding, but it is a reality. Paul urges us to pray for each other and for our leaders in government.

Your prayers can have powerful results!

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Don't tolerate sin by bowing to the pressure
to be open minded.

Ephesians 5:6-8 TEV
Do not let anyone deceive you with foolish words;
it is because of these very things that God's anger
will come upon those who do not obey him. So
have nothing at all to do with such people. You
yourselves used to be in the darkness, but since you
have become the Lord's people, you are in the light.
So you must live like people who belong to the light,
for it is the light that brings a rich harvest of every kind
of goodness, righteousness, and truth.

† Recovery Prayer †
My Lord,
The world bombards me with images and convincing
arguments to lure me into temptation. Just like the
serpent in the Garden of Eden I am told, "They are
little sins. They really do not matter. This is a shortcut
to happiness and fulfillment." Thank You for being my
strong Tower in the midst of a flood of evil. Amen.`

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Matthew 28:19-20 -- [Jesus says,] "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." (NIV)

Wow -- Jesus chooses to use ordinary people like us to change the world. Are you a disciple of Jesus? Are you making disciples? Are your disciples making disciples?

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— Mark 10:13-16 —

People were bringing little children to Jesus to have him touch them, but the disciples rebuked them. When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it." And he took the children in his arms, put his hands on them and blessed them.

Adults are not as trusting as little children. To feel secure, all children need is a loving look and a gentle touch from someone who cares. Complete intellectual understanding is not one of their requirements. They believe us if they trust us. Jesus said that people should believe in him with this kind of childlike faith. We should not have to understand all of the mysteries of the universe; it should be enough to know that God loves us and provides forgiveness for our sin. That doesn't mean that we should be childish or immature, but we should trust God with a child's simplicity and receptivity.

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God's Artistry
March 9, 2008
God's character is seen in his creative activity. He also graces us with the ability to create beautiful art!
God looked over all he had made, and he saw that it was excellent in every way. Genesis 1:31

I have filled him with the Spirit of God, giving him . . . skill in all kinds of crafts. Exodus 31:3

[admin]

Pray much for others; plead for God's mercy upon them; give thanks for all he is going to do for them.

1 Timothy 2:1

Although God is all-powerful and all-knowing, he has chosen to let us help him change the world through our prayers. How this works is a mystery to us because of our limited understanding, but it is a reality. Paul urges us to pray for each other and for our leaders in government.

Your prayers can have powerful results!

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The key to forgiving others is remembering how much
God has forgiven you.

Colossians 3:13
Make allowance for each other's faults, and forgive anyone
who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you
must forgive others.

† Recovery Prayer †
When I ponder how much You have forgiven me,
how can I not forgive others? This opens the doors
of my heart to be kind and tenderhearted to others.
Amen.

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John 3:3 -- In reply Jesus declared, "I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again." (NIV)

You were born physically some time ago. If you've accepted Jesus as your Savior, you've been born spiritually, as well. How would you describe your spiritual life right now: not born yet, an infant, a toddler, a teenager, an adult? What in your life has changed since your spiritual birth?

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— Matthew 19:30 —

But many who are first will be last, and many who are last will be first.

Jesus turned the world's values upside down. Consider the most powerful or well-known people in our world — how many got where they are by being humble, self-effacing and gentle? Not many! But in the life to come, the last will be first — if they got in last place by choosing to follow Jesus. Don't forfeit eternal rewards for temporary benefits. Be willing to make sacrifices now for greater rewards later. Be willing to accept human disapproval, while knowing that you have God's approval.

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appropriate God's promises

2 Cor 1:20 For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us. (NKJ)

2 Cor 7:1 Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. (NKJ)

Lets appropriate God's promises for our lives!

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God's Artistry
March 10, 2008
God's character is seen in his creative activity. He also graces us with the ability to create beautiful art!
God looked over all he had made, and he saw that it was excellent in every way. Genesis 1:31

I have filled him with the Spirit of God, giving him . . . skill in all kinds of crafts. Exodus 31:3

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Whoever becomes humble like this child is the greatest in the kingdom.

Matthew 18:4

Jesus used a child to help his self-centered disciples get the point. We are not to be childish (like the disciples, arguing over petty issues) but rather, childlike, with humble and sincere hearts.

In your personal relationships, are you childlike or childish?

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We can contrast the ethics of anxiety with the
ethics of faith. Anxiety leads to sleeplessness,
because anxiety is concerned with all the possibilities
as though all the possibilities are human options.
Because of the Fall, all of us are prone to anxiety,
which is the attempt to play god in our lives to
plan our tomorrows as though everything depends
on us.
-- Romans and Galatians by R.J. Rushdoony

Psalm 27:3-5
Though an host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear:
though war should rise against me, in this will I be confident.
One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after;
that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life,
to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to enquire in His temple.
For in the time of trouble He shall hide me in His pavilion:
in the secret of His tabernacle shall He hide me;
He shall set me up upon a rock.

† Recovery Prayer †
Lord,
You enable me to realize everything does not depend on me.
You are my comfort and my strength. You are my firm
foundation that nothing can shake. Thank You for Your
sure promise of a future and a hope. Amen.

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Psalm 42:11 -- Why am I discouraged? Why so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again -- my Savior and my God! (NLT)

When you get to that place where everything is on a slow skid down, look up. What has brought you down lately?

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Ps 96:2 Sing to the LORD, bless His name; proclaim
the good news of His salvation from day to day. (NKJ)

Ps 95:1 Oh come, let us sing to the LORD! Let us shout
joyfully to the Rock of our salvation. (NKJ)

We give thanks and praise to our Lord Jesus Christ who
has saved us eternally, internally and externally!

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A Blessing in Disguise
March 11, 2008
It can be hard to take criticism, but criticism offered in love with wisdom can be a true blessing in disguise. Ask God to help you be gracious when others offer strong advice.
If you ignore criticism, you will end in poverty and disgrace; if you accept criticism, you will be honored. Proverbs 13:18

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Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each day. I say to myself, "The LORD is my inheritance; therefore, I will hope in him!"

Lamentations 3:23-24

Jeremiah knew about God's faithfulness. God had promised that punishment would follow disobedience, and it did. But God also promised future restoration and blessing, and Jeremiah knew that God would keep that promise also.

Trust in God's faithfulness day by day.

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Stop wishing and start doing. Make the decision.

Romans 2:6 TEV
For God will reward each of us according to
what we have done.

† Recovery Prayer †
Father,
When I find myself wondering if I will ever reach my
goals, You strengthen my heart and reinforce my resolve.
You reveal my motives to me and help me keep them pure.
You teach me to value true success and discern between
what is real and what is false. Thank You for keeping my
feet on the right path and making it possible for me to fulfill
Your will for my life. Amen

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1 Kings 19:12-13 -- And after the earthquake came a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper. When Elijah heard it, he pulled his cloak over his face.... (NIV)

You're distracted by the noise of daily life: telephones, TVs, faxes, mail, air travel, the internet. There's hardly ever a quiet moment in your soul. God is whispering to you, but can you hear Him? How can you quiet your life?

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Monday, March 10, 2008
— Lamentations 3:22-25 —

Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed,
for his compassions never fail.
They are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.
I say to myself, "The LORD is my portion;
therefore I will wait for him."
The LORD is good to those whose hope is in him,
to the one who seeks him...

Trusting in God's faithfulness day by day makes us confident in his great promises for the future.

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John 14:27 Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you:
not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be
troubled, neither let it be afraid. (KJV)

Col 3:15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which
also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. (KJV)

We can refuse to be troubled or afraid. We can rest in the peace
that passes understanding!

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Awaiting the King
March 12, 2008
Can you see the daisies tapping their toes, the groundhogs pacing? They can hardly wait for Jesus to come back! Do you feel the same way?
All creation is waiting eagerly for that future day when God will reveal who his children really are. Romans 8:19

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Pay all your debts except the debt of love for others--never finish paying that!

Romans 13:8

Why is love for others called a debt? We are permanently in debt to Christ for the lavish love he has poured out on us. The only way we can even begin to repay this debt is by loving others in turn. Since Christ's love will always be infinitely greater than ours, we will always have the obligation to love our neighbors.

When it comes to loving your neighbor, draw on the infinite resource of God's love.

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You may feel as though you are unworthy or unqualified to
serve God because of your past mistakes and failures. No
one qualifies for God's service, but God still asks us to carry
out His work. Remember God does not call the qualified. He
qualifies the called!

Jonah 3:1-2
And the word of the LORD came unto Jonah the second time,
saying, Arise, go unto Nineveh, that great city, and preach unto
it the preaching that I bid thee.

† Recovery Prayer †
Lord,
I am grateful for the abilities with which You have entrusted
me. Lead me to step out in faith and use these gifts in ways
that will please You and bless others. In the name of Jesus
I pray. Amen.

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James 3:17 -- But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and good deeds. It shows no partiality and is always sincere. (NLT)

Wisdom from heaven is different from the wisdom you might hear on TV or at work. Pure, gentle, willing to yield, sincere -- how well do these words describe you?

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Eph 2:4 But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love
wherewith he loved us, (KJV)

Ps 118:1 O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good:
because his mercy endureth for ever. (KJV)

God's mercy is available to us through Jesus Christ.
Lets receive it for our daily needs.

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The Eternal Word
March 13, 2008
Jesus is not just God in the form of a man--he was present at Creation, and he is still with us today. He is truly God, and we can place our hope in his eternal presence with us.
In the beginning the Word already existed. He was with God, and he was God. John 1:1

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I will come and get you, so that you can always be with me where I am.

John 14:3

We can look forward to eternal life because Jesus has promised it to all who believe in him. Although the details of eternity are unknown, we need not fear, because Jesus is preparing for us and will spend eternity with us.

You've got a home in heaven--look forward to what God is preparing!

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It is not your past that matters. You can do nothing
about it. It is your future that matters because you CAN
do something about it. You can make changes and godly
choices.

Isaiah 43:18-19 TEV
But the LORD says, "Do not cling to events of the past or
dwell on what happened long ago. Watch for the new thing
I am going to do. It is happening already -- you can see it
now! I will make a road through the wilderness and give you
streams of water there."

† Recovery Prayer †
O Lord,
Thank You for helping me to release the past and
to expectantly grab onto the future. Your encouragement
is a balm to my soul. I look forward to my future with
You by my side. Amen.

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Joel 3:14 -- Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision! For the day of the LORD is near in the valley of decision. (NIV)

You are running out of time. Get out of the valley and make your decision. In what circumstance today can you make a decision to follow God?

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Ps 4:3 But know that the LORD hath set apart him that is
godly for himself: the LORD will hear when I call unto him. (KJV)

Ps 101:6 Mine eyes shall be upon the faithful of the land, that
they may dwell with me: he that walketh in a perfect way, he shall serve me. (KJV)

God needs us and will use us in His Kingdom as we live wholeheartedly for Him.

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Have No Fear!
March 14, 2008
When you belong to God, there is no need to be afraid of dark times that may sweep over you. For God is our sun, our light to guide us through to the end.
When darkness overtakes the godly, light will come bursting in. They are generous, compassionate, and righteous. Psalm 112:4

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Do not worry about your life, what you will eat, or about your body, what you will wear.

Luke 12:22

Jesus commands us not to worry. But how can we avoid it? Only faith can free us from the anxiety caused by greed and covetousness. It is good to work and plan responsibly; it is bad to dwell on all the ways our planning could go wrong. Worry is pointless because it can't fill any of our needs; worry is foolish because the creator of the universe loves us and knows what we need. He promises to attend to all our needs, not our desires, and they are our needs from his point of view.

Trust the Lord to meet your needs.

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Luke 16:11 -- [Jesus says,] "So if you have not been trustworthy in handling worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches?" (NIV)

Do you want more money? Do you want more influence? Do you want more opportunities? Do you want more friends? Do you want more responsibilities? Maybe God is waiting to see what you do with what you already have before He gives you more. How well are you managing what you have?

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Col 1:27 To them God willed to make known what are the riches of
the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles: which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. (NKJ)

Acts 17:28 "for in Him we live and move and have our being, as also some of
your own poets have said, `For we are also His offspring.' (NKJ)

As Christians, our Lord Jesus Christ lives inside of us!

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A Balanced Life
March 15, 2008
Are you striving after things that have no lasting value? If so, acknowledge that everything that has worth comes from God. Remembering this truth will help you have a more balanced life.
Store your treasures in heaven, where they will never become moth-eaten or rusty and where they will be safe from thieves. Matthew 6:20

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What fools they are who manufacture idols for their gods. Their hopes remain unanswered.

Isaiah 44:9

Here Isaiah describes how people make their own gods. How absurd to make a god from the same tree that gives firewood. Do we make our own gods--money, fame, or power? If we make a god of our own choosing, we deceive ourselves. We cannot expect it to empower our lives.

No other god but the one true God can empower your life.

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Recovery Thought:
To give oneself to the Lord means to lose all confidence
in oneself and recognize Jesus as the all in all.

Colossians 2:10
And ye are complete in Him, which is the head of all
principality and power.

Recovery Prayer
Lord Jesus,
I turn my will and my life over to Your loving care,
for in You I am complete. You are my fortress and
firm foundation. You are my all and in all. Amen.

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Who is pure of heart? Only those who have surrendered
their hearts completely to Jesus that he may reign in
them alone. Only those whose hearts are undefiled by
their own evil-and by their own virtues too.
--Dietrich Bonhoeffer, The Cost of Discipleship
http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/product?event=AFF&p=1015079&item_no=83850

Galatians 2:20 NASB
I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer
I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which
I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God,
who loved me, and delivered Himself up for me.

Recovery Prayer
Lord Jesus,
I surrender myself to you today. I am crucified
with you. I no longer live, but You live inside of
me to direct and strengthen me at all times. Amen.

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Amos 5:23 -- [God says,] "Away with your hymns of praise! They are only noise to my ears. I will not listen to your music, no matter how lovely it is. Instead, I want to see a mighty flood of justice, a river of righteous living that will never run dry." (NLT)

You may spend time trying to get your songs and prayers to sound right, but God will not accept your praise if your life isn't righteous and just. Spend time with Him; confess your sins; keep Him first. Then your praise will sound right, because it will be right. How does hypocrisy in your life affect other people?

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live wholeheartedly for our Lord Jesus Christ

Ps 4:3 But know that the LORD hath set apart him that is godly for himself: the LORD will hear when I call unto him. (KJV)

Ps 101:6 Mine eyes shall be upon the faithful of the land, that they may dwell with me: he that walketh in a perfect way, he shall serve me. (KJV)

God needs us and will use us in His Kingdom as we live wholeheartedly for Him.

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A Grand Promise
March 16, 2008
What do you do when you don't know what to do? Seek God's guidance. If you do so, he promises to grant you wisdom.
If you need wisdom . . . ask him, and he will gladly tell you. James 1:5

Seek his will in all you do, and he will direct your paths. Proverbs 3:6

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What fools they are who manufacture idols for their gods. Their hopes remain unanswered.

Isaiah 44:9

Here Isaiah describes how people make their own gods. How absurd to make a god from the same tree that gives firewood. Do we make our own gods--money, fame, or power? If we make a god of our own choosing, we deceive ourselves. We cannot expect it to empower our lives.

No other god but the one true God can empower your life.

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How do you react when someone suggests you
have done something wrong? Do you move to
correct the mistake or deny that you need to
correct it?

Genesis 4:6-7 NKJV
So the Lord said to Cain, "Why are you angry? And why
has your countenance fallen? If you do well, will you not
be accepted? And if you do not do well, sin lies at the door.
And its desire is for you, but you should rule over it."

Recovery Prayer
O LORD,
When I have done something wrong, I need to admit it
to myself, to You and to others. Hiding or trying to cover
things up only compounds things making them much
worse. When sin crouches at my door, help me to face
it squarely and to overcome it. In the name of Jesus I
pray. Amen.

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Colossians 1:17 -- He existed before everything else began, and he holds all creation together. (NLT)

Sometimes, no matter how hard you try, life seems to fall apart. If you're tired of mending broken pieces, give your burdens to God. Through good times and hardship, He will hold everything together. What broken pieces in your life can you give to God?

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3/17


A Grand Promise
March 17, 2008
What do you do when you don't know what to do? Seek God's guidance. If you do so, he promises to grant you wisdom.
If you need wisdom . . . ask him, and he will gladly tell you. James 1:5

Seek his will in all you do, and he will direct your paths. Proverbs 3:6

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To the one who pleases him God gives wisdom and knowledge and joy.

Ecclesiastes 2:26

Solomon is encouraging us to take pleasure in what we're doing now and to enjoy life because it comes from God's hand. True enjoyment in life comes only as we follow God's guidelines for living. Without him, finding satisfaction is hopeless. Those who really know how to enjoy life are the ones who take life each day as a gift from God, thanking him for it and serving him in it. Those without God will have no relief from toil and no direction to guide them through life's complications.

Find life's enjoyment and satisfaction by following God's guidelines.

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Psalm 139:14 -- Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous -- and how well I know it. (NLT)

You are an amazing, one-of-a-kind, hand-crafted, utterly unique, beautiful, gifted person in God's universe. There has never been someone like you. There will never be someone like you again. What is wonderful about you?

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Ps 17:8 Keep me as the apple of Your eye; hide me under
the shadow of Your wings, (NKJ)

Ps 91:1 He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High
shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. (NKJ)

As we abide in Jesus Christ, we are kept safe!

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A Father's Protection
March 18, 2008
Did you know that God is watching over you right now--just as a new father tenderly watches over his newborn child? Why not turn to him with childlike faith and trust him?
The LORD protects those of childlike faith; I was facing death, and then he saved me. Psalm 116:6

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The secret things belong to the LORD our God, but the revealed things belong to us and to our children forever.

Deuteronomy 29:29

There are some things God has chosen not to reveal to us. God is infinite and all-knowing, and we do not have the capacity to know everything he does. This verse shows that although God has not told us everything there is to know about obeying him, he has told us enough. Thus disobedience comes from an act of the will, not a lack of knowledge. Through God's Word we know enough about him to be saved by faith and to serve him. We must not use the limitation of our knowledge as an excuse to reject his claim on our life.

Learn the commands of God in his Word and obey them!

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As you go about your day, notice a specific moment
when you get angry. Pause and examine this anger.
Do you think there are "good reasons" for it ( that
someone else has done something?) What happens
when you accept personal responsibility for the choices
that have created this situation?

Job 19:4
And be it indeed that I have erred,
mine error remaineth with myself.

Recovery Prayer
O Lord,
Keep me mindful of any anger that rises up inside
of me. May I pause and examine it carefully. Do
not allow me to shift the blame on to others but
rather to take ownership of situations. As a
Christian in recovery, I am responsible for my
own thoughts, emotions and actions. Amen.

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Proverbs 25:2 -- It is God's privilege to conceal things and the king's privilege to discover them. (NLT)

Sometimes it's frustrating to have things concealed from us. But God gives us the privilege of searching and discovering. Enjoy the adventure! What is something you know today that you didn't know yesterday?

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Heb 13:8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. (NKJ)

James 1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above,
and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no
variation or shadow of turning. (NKJ)

We give thanks to our Heavenly Father through Jesus Christ, for
His great goodness towards us all the time!

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3/19

A Joyful Transformation
March 19, 2008
Are you feeling lonely, depressed, or afraid? If so, God can help. He alone truly sees your pain and offers to turn your sadness into joy.
You have turned my mourning into joyful dancing. You have taken away my clothes of mourning and clothed me with joy. Psalm 30:11

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I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ.

Philippians 1:6

When God starts a project, he finishes it! God will help you grow in grace until he has completed his work in your life. He promises to finish the work he has begun. When you feel incomplete, unfinished, or distressed by your shortcomings, remember God's promise and provision. Don't let your present condition keep you from growing.

When you are discouraged, remember that God won't give up on you.

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Recovery begins when we see the destructiveness
of our behaviors and the futility of life without God.

Hosea 14:1-2 NKJV
O Israel, return to the Lord your God,
For you have stumbled because of your iniquity;
Take words with you, And return to the Lord.
Say to Him, "Take away all iniquity; Receive us graciously,
For we will offer the sacrifices of our lips.

Recovery Prayer
Father,
Thank You for enabling me to see the destructiveness
of my behaviors. I now understand the futility of life
without You. Draw me ever closer to You. Take
away my iniquity and receive me graciously that I
may honor You with my life. Amen.

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Isaiah 30:21 -- Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way, walk in it." (NIV)

Are you confused by conflicting advice about which direction to go? Before taking another step, find a quiet place and listen to God. How do you know when the voice you hear is God's? What other voices in your life try to speak louder than God?

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I Jn 1:7 But if we walk in the light as He is in the light,
we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of
Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin. (NKJ)

Rom 13:12 The night is far spent, the day is at hand. Therefore
let us cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light. (NKJ)

Each day, as children of God, we choose to walk in the
light of our Lord Jesus Christ.

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A Lifetime Choice
March 20, 2008
Sometimes it seems that the only people who prosper are the ones who use selfish means for selfish ends. But you can be assured they'll be judged someday for their actions--as the righteous will be judged for theirs. Which side would you rather be on?
The fears of the wicked will all come true; so will the hopes of the godly. Proverbs 10:24

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Now that you have been freed from sin and enslaved to God, the advantage you get is sanctification.

Romans 6:22

Sanctification means the process of being made holy. We are made holy by faith in Jesus Christ, but we also go through a lifelong process of growing in our faith and practice.

Do your actions show that you are God's slave instead of sin's slave?

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God blesses obedience and if we are living
in disobedience then He won’t bless us.

Jeremiah 7:23 NASB
"But this is what I commanded them, saying,
'Obey My voice, and I will be your God, and
you will be My people; and you will walk in all
the way which I command you, that it may be
well with you.'

Recovery Prayer
Father God,
My deepest desire is to obey You. Remove
from me all tendencies to follow my own path.
May I weigh all my thoughts and actions in light
of Your grace in my life. Amen.

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One of the greatest gifts you can give young
people is your life's story to help them repeat
your successes and avoid your mistakes.

Joel 1:3
Tell your children of it, and let your children tell their
children, and their children another generation.

Recovery Prayer
Lord,
Make me a good example and witness for You.
Give me the courage to speak up when it will
benefit others. May I realize the value of my own
story and share it unreservedly. Amen.

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Proverbs 16:9 -- In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps. (NIV)

Being a Christian is a journey. God has given you a road map to follow. It's called the Bible. Enjoy your expedition! When have you felt like leaving God's trail and following your own? Where has the Bible been leading you lately?

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Prov 28:1 The wicked flee when no one pursues,
but the righteous are bold as a lion. (NKJ)

Acts 4:13 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and
perceived that they were uneducated and untrained men, they marveled.
And they realized that they had been with Jesus. (NKJ)

Through Jesus Christ, we have boldness!

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Be Honest with God
March 21, 2008
We need to reverence God, but that doesn't mean we can't be honest with him about our struggles. Job, in the Old Testament, certainly was. Like Job, you can be straight with God. His ear is tuned to you.
I am disgusted with my life. Let me complain freely. I will speak in the bitterness of my soul. Job 10:1

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The LORD is my strength and my song; he has become my victory. He is my God, and I will praise him; he is my father's God, and I will exalt him!

Exodus 15:2

Music played an important part in Israel's worship and celebration. Singing was an expression of love and thanks, and it was a creative way to pass down oral traditions. This song of Moses was a festive epic poem celebrating God's victory, lifting the hearts and voices of the people outward and upward. After being delivered from great danger, they sang with joy! Psalms and hymns can be great ways to express relief, praise, and thanks when you have been through trouble.

When a time of trouble passes, remember to sing praise to God.

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Luke 15:8-9 -- [Jesus says,] "Suppose a woman has ten silver coins and loses one. ...And when she finds it, she calls her friends and neighbors together and says, 'Rejoice with me....'" (NIV)

Jesus used this ordinary event to illustrate how heaven reacts to a sinner who repents. Jesus told a lot of stories using everyday experiences. That's because God is present in our everyday lives. What happened to you this week that illustrated a truth about God?

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— Romans 5:6-8 —

You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this:

While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. "While we were still sinners" — these are amazing words. God sent Jesus Christ to die for us, not because we were good enough, but because he loved us. Whenever you feel uncertain about God's love for you, remember that he loved you even before you turned to him. If God loved you when you were a rebel, he can surely strengthen you now that you love him in return.

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Self Check
March 22, 2008
If someone had to give a "report" about you, what would they say? Seek to be known for your faith in God and your love for others.
We give thanks to God the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, for we have heard that you trust in Christ Jesus and that you love all of God's people. Colossians 1:3-4

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Rejoice greatly, O my people! Shout with joy! For look--your King is coming! He is the Righteous One, the Victor! Yet he is lowly, riding on a donkey's colt.

Zechariah 9:9

The triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem (Matthew 21:1-11) is predicted here five hundred years before it happened. Just as this prophecy was fulfilled when Jesus came to earth, so the prophecies of his Second Coming are just as certain to come true. We are to be ready for his return, for he is coming!

Look forward with joy and excitement to the day of Christ's return.

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You can have the best of intentions, but still follow
your desires. Desires often win over intentions.

James 1:14
But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by
his own desires and enticed.

Recovery Prayer
Dear Jesus,
I bring my desires to You today. Slay these inappropriate
desires. For without desire, there can be no temptation.
Without desire, I am free.

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Let the Holy Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes.
Put on your new nature, created to be like God

Colossians 2:14 NLT
He canceled the record of the charges against us
and took it away by nailing it to the cross.

Recovery Prayer
Lord,
Renew my thoughts and my attitudes. Thank
You for cleansing me from anything that is not
right in Your sight and nailing it to the cross. Amen.

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Ecclesiastes 10:10 -- Since a dull ax requires great strength, sharpen the blade. That's the value of wisdom; it helps you succeed. (NLT)

Jesus was busy but never in a hurry. Pressed to the limit but always at peace. His secret? He set aside time for replenishment and refreshment. Are you taking time regularly to "sharpen the blade"? How?

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— Mark 16:1-6 —

When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices so that they might go to anoint Jesus' body. Very early on the first day of the week, just after sunrise, they were on their way to the tomb and they asked each other, "Who will roll the stone away from the entrance of the tomb?"

But when they looked up, they saw that the stone, which was very large, had been rolled away. As they entered the tomb, they saw a young man dressed in a white robe sitting on the right side, and they were alarmed.

"Don't be alarmed," he said. "You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him."


From the first century on, people have struggled with the idea of ressurection because it defies reason. But believing that Jesus rose from the dead is not negotiable for Christians. If the ressurection didn't happen, then Jesus Christ did not triumph over death. And without His victory, we cannot be free from sin and its punishment. Jesus said he would rise again and sit at his Father's right hand in heaven. He did exactly as he promised. His supernatural return to life is confirmation that everything He said was 100 percent reliable.

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the righteous are bold

Prov 28:1 The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are bold as a lion. (NKJ)

Acts 4:13 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and untrained men, they marveled. And they realized that they had been with Jesus. (NKJ)

Through Jesus Christ, we have boldness!

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Walk On
March 23, 2008
Ever feel you can go no further? At such times all God asks is that you keep walking. He knows when to rescue you.
He set my feet on solid ground and steadied me as I walked along. Psalm 40:2

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Rejoice greatly, O my people! Shout with joy! For look--your King is coming! He is the Righteous One, the Victor! Yet he is lowly, riding on a donkey's colt.

Zechariah 9:9

The triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem (Matthew 21:1-11) is predicted here five hundred years before it happened. Just as this prophecy was fulfilled when Jesus came to earth, so the prophecies of his Second Coming are just as certain to come true. We are to be ready for his return, for he is coming!

Look forward with joy and excitement to the day of Christ's return.

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John 15:15 -- [Jesus says,] "I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master's business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you." (NIV)

God isn't interested in a superficial relationship with you. He wants to know you. And He wants you to know Him. How deep is your friendship with the Lord these days?

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— Matthew 28:1-6 —

After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb.

There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men.

The angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay."


Jesus' ressurection is the key to the Christian faith. Why? (1) Just as he promised, Jesus rose from the dead. We can be confident, therefore, that he will accomplish all he has promised. (2) Jesus' bodily ressurection shows us that the living Christ is ruler of God's eternal Kingdom, not a false prophet or imposter. (3) We can be certain of our ressurection because he was ressurected. Death is not the end — there is a future life. (4) The power that brought Jesus back to life is available to us to bring our spiritually dead selves back to life. (5) The ressurection is the basis for the church's witness to the world. Jesus is more than just a human leader — he is the Son of God.