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10-02-2008, 05:44 PM
Today I will...live as though it is my last and only day to get things right with God and man.
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2 Corinthians 6
1As God's fellow workers we urge you not to receive God's grace in vain. 2For he says,
"In the time of my favor I heard you,
and in the day of salvation I helped you."[a] I tell you, now is the time of God's favor, now is the
day of salvation.
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Obedience Brings Success
October 2
Every Scripture is God-breathed (given by His
inspiration) and profitable for instruction, for reproof and conviction of sin, for correction of error and
discipline in obedience, [and] for training in righteousness (in holy living, in conformity to God’s will in
thought, purpose, and action).
—2 Timothy 3:16
The Bible says that we will reap what we sow. The dividing line between success and failure is doing
what God tells us to do. We pray for fruit in our lives, but we don’t always want to pray for roots.
If we want our days to go right, we need to do whatever God tells us to do. If we don’t walk in
obedience, then we can’t complain if we wind up in a mess. If we are lonely and God tells us to invite
somebody over, but we decide it is too much trouble, then we will stay lonely.
Obedience brings the fruit of the Spirit in your life. Dig deep into God’s Word before you walk away
from blessings today.
From the book Starting Your Day Right: Devotions for Each Morning of the Year by Joyce Meyer.
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Daily Thoughts
A Time to Think Vitality shows in not only the ability to persist but the ability to start over. —F. Scott
Fitzgerald
To Act Don’t let what you can’t do, stop you from doing what you can.
To Pray Lord, please use my memory to be a compass that points in the right direction - that of
growing up, in love.
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Minimize All Obstacles.
When faced with a difficult problem, we can sometimes feel overwhelmed. But there is a positive
way to handle problems. Brother Andrews had only three years of schooling, but he used his mind to
the maximum. He would take a problem apart, step-by-step, and study every aspect. He gave the
impression of walking around the difficulty, poking at it here and there. "Every problem has a soft
spot," he declared. "If it is too big for us, we can take it to God. Nothing is too big for Him." And,
invariably the answer would come.
No. 76 in a series of 100 Power Thoughts from The Power of Positive Thinking, the All-Time
inspirational Best-Selling Book by Norman Vincent Peale.
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God’s Diet for Me
October 2nd, 2008 Posted in 1 John, Proverbs | No Comments »
He who is full loathes honey, but to the hungry even what is bitter tastes sweet.
Proverbs 27:7 (NIV)
Have you ever been hungry? I mean – missed several meals hungry? Most of us have no idea what
that means. We have always had enough to eat.
The writer of Proverbs reminds me that when I am full of Thanksgiving dinner – even pecan pie may
not sound good to eat. (for at least an hour!) But when I am “starving” – even liver and onions is a
feast!
And so this verse in Proverbs becomes wisdom and a warning: “Fill yourself with ‘God things’, Jody,
or ‘un-Godly things’ may tempt you!”
Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not
in him. For everything in the world – the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting
of what he has and does – comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires
pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever. 1 John 2:15-17 (NIV)
How strong yet clear are John’s words!
John echoes Peter’s words that we should live as aliens and not crave the pleasures of this world.
(1Peter 2) They both are quite forceful and explicit that looking at what we can accumulate here –
money, ‘treasures’ if you will – will only end in – nothing – for it will all end in dust! Instead, when I
look to God and walk in obedience to Him there will be abundant treasures that will not decay.
How do I know what is God’s will for my life? A decade ago there was a popular bracelet that many
of us wore: “WWJD”, “What Would Jesus Do”. Jesus said that the food that he desires and sustains
Him – is doing the will of His Father. (John 4:34) Whatever I do each day, am I able to ask God to
bless it? Am I moving toward what He wants me to do each day or trying to beckon Him over to my
way?
So – as I begin my day – do I sense God’s eyes on me? Do I know that He is watching? Do I sense
His approval? His blessing? Each day I am learning to change my ‘diet’ so I am full of God’s chosen
foods for me.
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NACR Daily Meditation
Thursday 2nd of October 2008
The Lord your God is with you he is mighty to save. He will take great delight
in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.
Zephaniah 3:17
God comforts and takes joy in his children. We are like infants in his arms.
God delights in us, quiets us with his love, and sings for joy over us.
It may be very difficult to imagine God so full of joy over you. This image is especially difficult for
people who have been abandoned physically or emotionally by parents. You may have
been unwanted. You may have been criticized and rejected. You may have been
abused at the hands of the people you needed most to comfort you.
But we are not unwanted by God. We will not be rejected or abused by God.
God delights in us. God longs to quiet our agitation and anxiety with love. God is so glad we are alive.
God sings for joy! The Creator of the Universe takes such delight in us and sings for joy!
Do you delight in me, God?
Are you glad I’m alive?
You amaze me!
Help me, Father God,
to experience your protection.
Help me, Mother God,
to experience your nurture.
Quiet my anxious heart.
Sing to me, God.
Sing your songs of joy to me until I am quieted with your love.
Amen.
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The Duty and Joy of Love
Malachi 1:2: “‘I have loved you,’ says the Lord.”
Some of us may be afraid to let love become emotional. We have agreed to love objectively. Didn’t
we say, “I do” or “I will?” Yet, we balk at the thought of giving into sentimentality, holding at bay our
genuine feelings. We love primarily with our heads and not our hearts.
Perhaps we have been conditioned to suppress the demonstrative side of love. Maybe we are
frightened we might look foolish, or express our love imperfectly. Sometimes we perfectionists tie up
our emotions into neat little packages. We may try to stuff our true feelings, so we will appear more
in control; more �right.�
God loves us emotionally as well as intellectually. As a result I have gained permission to reverse my
restrictive view of love. I am learning that the necessary elements of love which include commitment
and duty, can live peaceably with love’s emotional side. Feeling and verbalizing love is acceptable to
God.
Lord, thank you for loving me with everything
that you are and not just the duty part.
Teach me to recognize and verbalize my feelings.
I wish to know the joy as well as the responsibility of loving others.
2008 Joan C. Webb
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John's Story
By: Ron Edmondson Thursday, October 02, 2008
When Jesus saw His mother there, and the disciple whom He loved standing nearby, He said to His
mother, “Dear woman, here is your son,” and to the disciple, “Here is your mother.” From that time
on, this disciple took her into his home. John 19:26-27 NIV
What an honor! John, the great disciple of God, was asked to care for the mother of Jesus. Do you
think Jesus would have been careful in the selection of this person?
John was perhaps closer to Jesus than any other disciple. Probably an early follower of John the
Baptist, John refers to himself as “the disciple whom Jesus loved.” I don't think John was stuck on
himself, actually to the contrary. Throughout the book of John, John refuses to name himself, even
when he has done something great.
One thing we can be sure of with John and his brother James is they had a fire in their heart for
Jesus! In fact, you can be sure that in whatever John was involved, he would display passion. Jesus
nicknamed him and his brother James “Sons of Thunder” most likely for their quick-tempered spirits.
I think Jesus was also referring to the great devotion and energy of their lives.
John was in the inner circle of Christ. He accompanied Jesus to the high mountain where they met
Moses and Elijah. No doubt, John was never the same again. John may have been the sole disciple
at the crucifixion, perhaps being the only one who had the courage to stay in spite of the danger.
In my mind, however, John is best noted for his tremendous contribution to the Word of God,
inspired by the Holy Spirit. The last of the gospels to be written, the book of John is packed full of
inspiring truths. John alone tells of the reappearing of Christ to the disciples, how Christ fed them
breakfast, and of the moving reinstatement of Peter to the Lord.
As we strive to be like Christ, we can look favorably to the example of John-- a faithful, devoted,
passionate follower whom Jesus Loved. May it be said of you and me!
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Proverbs chapter 2
WISDOM
MEMORY VERSE: Proverbs 2:6: For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge
and understanding.
Wisdom is defined as: "The power of true and right discernment."
And we need it.
Somewhere along the line, man decided that education could be his saviour. But experience has
taught us that full heads and empty hearts bring tragic results. We need more than an accumulation
of facts to solve our problems.
We can build luxurious homes that are beyond the wildest dreams of our forefathers. But more
homes are coming apart than ever before.
We have produced an army of experts on the causes of crime. The crime rate soars in spite of our
know-how.
Knowledge of the atom, hoped to solve the energy needs of the world and be the miracle fuel of the
latter part of the century, has been disappointing. The chief use of this mindboggling breakthrough
continues to be the continual buildup of armaments and a steady march toward Armageddon.
Man's wheel-spinning predicament in the last days, in spite of his great knowledge, is foretold in this
one descriptive statement in Paul's revelation concerning the end time: "Ever learning, and never
able to come to the knowledge of the truth" (II Timothy 3:7).
But what is the reason for this contradiction? A lack of wisdom.
And where is that available? From the Lord: "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that
giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him" (James 1:5).
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Proverbs chapter 2
WISDOM
MEMORY VERSE: Proverbs 2:6: For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge
and understanding.
Wisdom is defined as: "The power of true and right discernment."
And we need it.
Somewhere along the line, man decided that education could be his saviour. But experience has
taught us that full heads and empty hearts bring tragic results. We need more than an accumulation
of facts to solve our problems.
We can build luxurious homes that are beyond the wildest dreams of our forefathers. But more
homes are coming apart than ever before.
We have produced an army of experts on the causes of crime. The crime rate soars in spite of our
know-how.
Knowledge of the atom, hoped to solve the energy needs of the world and be the miracle fuel of the
latter part of the century, has been disappointing. The chief use of this mindboggling breakthrough
continues to be the continual buildup of armaments and a steady march toward Armageddon.
Man's wheel-spinning predicament in the last days, in spite of his great knowledge, is foretold in this
one descriptive statement in Paul's revelation concerning the end time: "Ever learning, and never
able to come to the knowledge of the truth" (II Timothy 3:7).
But what is the reason for this contradiction? A lack of wisdom.
And where is that available? From the Lord: "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that
giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him" (James 1:5).
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Love Worth Finding - Oct. 2, 2008
October 2
Ready to Face Trials & Temptations
“There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not
suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to
escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” 1 Corinthians 10:13
Winston Churchill was speaking to the House of Commons one day when he gave this advice, “We
must always be ready to meet at our average moment, the thing that any possible enemy could hurl
against us at his selected moment.”
Satan could hurl a deadly temptation at you at any given moment. The phone could ring with terrible
news about a friend. A police officer could knock on your door to inform you of a tragedy in your
family.
Trials can come with such a force that they blow you off course. Temptation can strike at your
backside and almost give you whiplash!
It is not God’s will that you have a vacancy of temptation or trials but that you have victory in
temptation and trials.
Are you ready at this moment to meet what the devil may throw at you or what God may allow to
come your way? Get ready by spending time in His precious word today.
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Salt and Light
Sharon Jaynes
Today’s Truth
“You are the salt of the earth. You are the light of the world” (Matthew 5:13,14 NIV).
Friend to Friend
You are the salt of the earth.
Have you ever tasted potatoes without salt added? They are bland, blasé, and blah. Likewise, a
world without Christians would be very unappealing.
Salt has three primary purposes. It preserves, heals, and gives flavor. As Christians, one of our
privileges is to preserve what is right and good in the world in which we live. Satan is referred to as
a roaring lion. He prowls around seeking to rip Judeo Christian values from the government, public
schools, entertainment industry, and the very fabric of life. Christians, on the other hand, serve to
preserve the values of our godly heritage.
Salt is also an effective healing agent. Gargling with salt water helps heal a sore throat, swimming in
a salty sea helps heal a skinned knee, and fellowshipping with “salty” Christians helps heal wounded
souls by introducing them to spiritual, mental and physical wellness afforded them through a
relationship with Jehovah Rapha – the One who heals.
The most common use of salt is to add flavor, and as Christians, we add flavor to our world. A
gourmet cook once told me that salt not only gives food the salty flavor, but it also brings out the
natural flavor of the food to which it is added. As Christians, we should bring out the best in other
people
You are the light of the world.
For eighteen years, I worked as a Dental Hygienist. Fourteen of those years I worked with my
husband, Steve, and four to six other Christian women. When I think back on those days, I see our
team as a chandelier of light: individual yet united to shine the light of Christ to our patients. In the
reception room, Newsweek, Southern Living, and Better Homes and Gardens were mixed in with
Focus on the Family, Guidepost, and Decision magazines.
Steve and his assistant volleyed ideas about various aspects of the Christian faith back and forth like
a tennis ball over a net while they worked on patients. Talk about a captive audience! We prayed
with patients, sent them books, and listened to their family problems. Someone once asked, “Aren’t
you afraid you’ll offend someone and lose patients?”
“Someone might leave,” I answered. “But a person can get into heaven with a cavity, but they can’t
get to heaven without knowing Christ.”
In our own simple way, we were being light in a very dark world.
Think for a moment about what light does. It drives out darkness. Even the smallest birthday candle
in a darkened coliseum will push the darkness aside. Jesus encourages Christians not to hide their
light under a bushel, but to put it on a stand to be seen by all. Jesus said He was the light of the
world. He has put that same light in you. It is part of your new identity.
Robert Louis Stevenson said, “When a happy man comes into a room, it is as if another candle has
been lighted.” How much more does a Christian who has something to be truly happy about light up
a room!
Let’s Pray
Dear Lord, I look around and see what the world would be like if all the Christian influences were
removed. Help me to make a difference in my sphere of influence, bring the healing of Jesus Christ
to those I come in contact, and encourage the best in others to surface. Help me be salt and light in
the world.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen
Now It’s Your Turn
What do you think this verse means? "You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness,
how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and
trampled by men.” (Matthew 5:13)
What do you think this verse means? "You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden.
Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives
light to everyone in the house.” (Matthew 5:14,15)
Think of one way that you and your family can be salt and light in the world today.
Try sprinkling a little salt by giving words of encouragement to at least five people today.
More From The Girlfriends
I don’t know about you, but I want to be a salty Christian! If you would like to learn more about you
role as salt and light, see Experience the Ultimate Makeover by Sharon Jaynes. It’s sure to make
you thirsty for more of the only One who can quench your thirst!
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Devotional For Dieters
October 2
Ephesians 6:13
Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day,
and having done all, to stand.
Even the mightiest warrior of old was not foolish enough to enter battle without protection.
Strength must be tempered with common sense. When we wage war on fat, we need to be well-
equipped for the fray. If we give something up, we need to have something to replace it with. Jesus
proposed that we should not live by bread only, but upon the word of God. We can protect ourselves
from temptation by faith. God will fight our battle alongside us. With Christ, we become an invincible
army. We can carry on in the strength of the Spirit, which will allow us to conquer our weight and
fears. With Christ comes true power.
Today's thought: With Jesus' might, my fat I'll fight!
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Parenting by Design - Oct. 2, 2008
Respect
Psalm 123:1-2: “To Thee I lift my eyes, O Thou who art enthroned in the heavens! Behold, as the
eyes of servants look to the hand of their master, as the eyes of a maid to the hand of her mistress;
so our eyes look to the Lord our God, until He shall be gracious to us” (NASB).
God offers divine instruction for living, but he also loves us enough to give us free will. The psalmist
expresses confidence that God has his best interests at heart and this confidence leads him to a
spirit of trust, respect, and submission to God’s will.
Although we often know what is best, many times our children still choose to disobey. A parent's
genuine love and concern even in the face of disobedience can foster the kind of respect that will
cause kids to be more willing to submit to authority the next time. This is especially true of
teenagers.
Show God’s love to your children and their growing respect will cause them to desire your direction.
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Copycats
Kevin angrily slammed the kitchen door as he entered the room. Startled, Dad looked up from the
table where he was reading the newspaper. "Tell Nate to quit copying me," said Kevin, crossing his
arms over his chest. "He's always following me around, and he tries to do everything I do." As Dad
put down the paper, Nate rushed into the kitchen. He marched over to his brother and promptly
crossed his arms, too. "See what I mean?" complained Kevin as Nate stared up at him.
Dad motioned for Nate to come sit beside him. "Okay, Son," said Dad, "you need to leave your
brother alone now." Then Dad looked at Kevin. "Nate copies you because he wants to be like you,"
said Dad. "Take it as a compliment."
Kevin frowned. "I don't like copycats," he grumbled.
"You don't? Well, the Bible verses I read this morning tell me we should all be copycats," said Dad.
He reached over, picked up his Bible, and opened it. "Come here." Dad pulled out the chair on the
other side of him. Kevin shuffled over to the table and sat down. "Here," said Dad. "Read Ephesians
5:1 out loud for us."
Kevin took the Bible and looked at the verse Dad indicated. "Therefore be imitators of God, as dear
children," he read.
"What do imitators do?" Dad asked. Kevin shrugged. Nate shrugged, too. "They copy," said Dad.
"We're to copy God." Dad smiled at the boys. "Nate cares for you, Kevin, and he shows it by wanting
to do the same things you do. If we love God, we should show that by copying the way Jesus would
behave in various situations and by developing attitudes and actions God wants to see in us."
Kevin scratched his head. Giggling, Nate did the same. Then Kevin gave his brother a quick playful
punch on the shoulder. Nate punched back. He squealed as Kevin tackled him, and together they fell
to the floor, laughing.
Dad laughed, too. "Enough, boys," he said. "And no more copying Kevin right now, Nate. Leave him
alone for a while. Let's just all do our best to copy actions Jesus would take so that whatever we do
will please Him."
HOW ABOUT YOU?
Do you get frustrated when others imitate you? Do younger brothers or sisters-or perhaps
classmates or neighbors-repeat what you say, act the way you act, and try to look like you by
wearing similar clothes? No doubt they do it because they admire you, so take it as a compliment. If
you love Jesus, treat them the way He would. In other words, copy the way you believe Jesus would
behave. Let others see Jesus in you by the way you respond to various situations.
TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
Be imitators of God as dear children. Ephesians 5:1
Keys For Kids Devotion
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God’s Workmanship
by Gail Rodgers
It’s important to accept what God says about who we are. All too often we live with feelings of deep inadequacy. We may regret the past or fear the future. In life’s crazy pace it’s easy to forget to schedule in time with our Lord and to ask ourselves, “Am I growing or eroding in who I am becoming?”
A wise person grows in understanding who he is.
One who knows how God sees him is confident in his identity. He knows God made him just the way he is and for specific tasks. He does not compare the inside of himself with the outside of another.
He makes the effort to grow in his knowledge of the truth of what God says about him. One who understands who he is in God’s sight knows he is:
* Accepted (Ephesians 1:5)
* Secure (Philippians 1:6)
* Significant (John 15:16)
His identity is not bound up in what he has, how he looks or what he wears. His identity is secured in who he is as a beloved child of God.
“For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do” (Ephesians 2:10).
Read Psalm 139 and ask God to fill your heart with the knowledge of just how esteemed you are in God’s sight. Ask Him to help you grow in your understanding of who you really are!
~ Father God, Sometimes it’s hard for me to think of myself as a piece of Your artwork, created to be just who I am. Help me to embrace the knowledge of who You say I am! I know all too well the weaknesses in me. I invite You to use these very things that I dislike about myself to be the entry point of Your strength and power in my Iife. I know You have things for me to do that go beyond this “to do” list of mine. Show me who You want to touch through me. Help me to live as an accepted, secure and significant child of the Almighty God today by the power of Your Holy Spirit. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.
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Satan's Wiles
1 Peter 5:8, "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour."
Have you ever been tempted? I suspect we all have been. Satan is called "the tempter," in Matthew 4:3, and he is still the tempter to us today. He has had at least 6000 years to watch and observe human behavior, and he certainly has gathered more than a little experience doing his occupation in that time. He has learned how to tempt kings, but also those who take up residence in the subways of NYC. He has watched us all, and he knows us well. He watches one and sees that he/she is lazy, and so Satan tempts them with TV shows or video games. He notices a guy with an eye for the ladies, and tempts him with pornography. He notices that a young woman has a propensity toward the latest fashion, and so he tempts her with the latest style, shoe, or bag that is beyond her budget and will force her into debt, or to neglect giving sacrificially to the things of the Lord.
It is what Satan does. He tempts us, and he is good at it. What we might be able to conceal from our best friend, Satan knows of us. He puts the idea close to our heart and gives us all the freedom and opportunity possible unto mischief. It is no wonder that Scripture admonishes us to be sober and vigilant.
Satan is much like a chameleon in his methods. He makes our temptation in the shape most attractive to us to give into. If we are very careful about our own conduct, Satan will tempt us to legalism and judging others. If we are more free and allow latitude in the things we do, Satan will tempt us to a liberality that transgresses God's law and our conscience. Are we flexible, "go with the flow" types? Depend upon it that you will be tempted to be inconsistent in your walk and profession of Christ. He lays the traps according to our weakness. However best he may do it, he seeks to ensnare us, weaken our faith, usefulness and constancy in the things of Christ. Satan knows just how and when to lacerate our hearts. It is no wonder that so many of those who make a good beginning in Christ end up rusty with sin. Our adversary is quite well-schooled in bringing us down.
A couple of things to consider here: We will never be tempted without permission given from the very throne of the Father, where Jesus pleads for us. Also when we are tempted, we are always provided with a way of escape. If there is no way of escape, there will be the grace given to us to withstand the temptation. We need not yield to Satan's wiles. He is ever evil, and he always wants our worst. We see this in the first two chapters of the book of Job. What did Satan wish to do to Job in afflicting him? A simple reading of the text tell us that Satan wanted to do as much to Job as God would let him. He had the worst in mind for Job. Let us not expect that he has any other desires for us.
When we are faithful and resist the temptations, God is glorified. It is to His glory that we are able to withstand Satan. Left to ourselves - be honest - we would fall every time. Oh, but we have so great a Savior who pleads for us and ever makes intercession on our behalf before the Father, "He ever liveth to make intercession for them," Hebrews 7:25.
Soli Deo Gloria,
T-
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Surely God is in this place and I did not know it.
—Genesis 28:16
There are times in our lives when we are sure of God's presence.
Sometimes, during a Bible study, someone will have the courage to say to a believer, “But how do you know?” The discussion that follows is sure to be full of stories. One person remembers when “something happened” that was far beyond expectation. Another remembers kneeling in prayer and feeling a burden lifted. It would not be surprising if laughter and tears mark both those stories.
But there are also times when we've thought God has deserted us. I had been a pastor most of my life. And then, one day, a stroke came my way. Over the course of several days, as billions of neurons fell away from my brain, I began to lose track of life. I could scarcely recognize myself. My voice didn't fit. My thoughts didn't make sense. Or, when they did make sense, they did so without coherence. Words no longer gave themselves, and the tried and true rhythms of pastoral ministry no longer worked.
In the hospital, when my pastor prayed with me, I suddenly realized my prayers felt empty. It is through prayer that we establish a relationship with God, and it is through prayer that God establishes a relationship with us. When the part of my brain responsible for relational thinking washed away, so did prayer. It was as though God suddenly disappeared.
In time, and after months of rehabilitation, life began to make sense again. Its arrival was slow, incredibly slow. I often had to leave worship services early to avoid the crush of people whose loving energy I could still not navigate.
But one Sunday, when I once again left early, I walked outside and found a flock of cedar waxwings in a sumac tree. To my astonishment, the 50 or so birds did not take flight. I watched them, and they watched me. And then, after several minutes, they all arose at once, carrying the prayers I felt but could not speak into the hands of God. After months of wondering where God had gone, I realized God was still present, still caring, and still part of my life.
Gracious God, sometimes we believe and then perceive you. And sometimes we perceive you and then believe. In whatever way you choose, and whenever you determine the time is ripe, we ask that we might be assured of your loving presence. Amen.
The Signposts
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Full of Light
"The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are good, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eyes are bad your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness." Matt. 6:22, 23
The amount of light that our natural eyes take in depends on what and where we focus our eyes. If we are in a room full of light, we will see that light, but if we walk into the darkness, we will stumble. The same principle applies to our spiritual eyesight. What is it that we focus on? If we focus on Christ, we will be filled with light because Jesus Christ is the light of the world. When we focus on Him, we will be able to see clearly where the Lord wishes us to go. We will be able to see how we can best serve Him. We will be able to live the life of joy in His light. If on the other hand, we look away from Christ and turn our focus to the trials of life, or the busyness of our schedule, or spend our time focusing on the things of this world, our spirituality will suffer, for we will be full of darkness. The darkness of the world will strip away the joy of living in the light. You may not have spent a lot of time thinking about it this way. Satan would rob of us of the light of Christ and the best way to do that is to distract us and draw our attention away from the blessed savior who died for us. When we are overcome with the weariness of life, our world does begin to darken, but it takes only a look at our Savior to bring us back into the light. Do not go through life in the dark, when the light is but a glance away. Paul tells us to "fix" our eyes on Jesus. We must make a concerted effort to keep them focused on Him and when we do, our lives will be filled with the glorious light of the Savior.
Father, forgive us for letting the worries of this world and the busyness of life draw us away from Christ. Help us to fix our eyes upon Him, that we might live in the light. We have lived in darkness for too long, dear Lord. We long to live in the light. We need your strength to do that, your Spirit to help keep our eyes on Christ. We thank you for your help and pray that all the glory and honor will be yours when we begin to live in the light as you would have us do. Amen Quiet Waters
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His Love Has Not Changed
Matthew 15:32
Pastor Carl H Stevens
"And Jesus went forth, and saw a great multitude, and was moved with compassion toward them, and he healed their sick" (Matthew 14:14). "Then Jesus called his disciple unto him, and said, I have compassion on the multitude, because they continue with me now three days, and have nothing to eat: and I will not send them away fasting, lest they faint in the way" (Matthew 15:32). "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killeth the prophets..how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not!" (Matthew 23:37). The Lord Jesus Christ was moved with a heart of compassion throughout His ministry on earth.
With this in mind, we must remember, "Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and forever" (Hebrews 13:8). "I am the Lord and I change not" (Malachi 3:6a).
It is the Lord's desire to heal us mentally, emotionally and physically. "For I am the Lord that healeth thee" (Exodus 15:26b). God has a far greater degree of compassion than any of His children do. He will never give us a stone for bread (2). Never forget that He is your heavenly Father. He desires to deliver, reconcile, reinstate, reinforce and to have a very intimate relationship with you. He loves you deeply and praise God, He does not change!
Then Jesus called his disciples unto him, and said, I have compassion on the multitude, because they continue with me now three days, and have nothing to eat: and I will not send them away fasting, lest they faint in the way.
Matthew 15:32
If a son shall ask bread of any of you that is a father, will he give him a stone? or if he ask a fish, will he for a fish give him a serpent?
Luke 11:11
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Enough for today
"DON'T GET WORKED UP ABOUT...TOMORROW."
MATTHEW 6:34 TM
Author, Max Lucado says, 'Worry is to joy, what a vacuum cleaner is to dirt; you might as well attach your heart to a happiness-sucker and flip the switch.' Jesus said, 'Don't get worked up about...tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes.' When it looks like things are falling apart, Paul reminds us, 'Every detail in our lives... is worked into something good' (Rom 8:28 TM). When it seems like the world's gone mad, don't forget God 'existed before anything else, and he holds all creation together' (Col 1:17 NLT). When worry whispers, 'God doesn't know what you need,' remember God promised to 'take care of everything you need' (Philippians 4:19 TM).
Jesus taught us to pray, 'Give us this day our daily bread.' That means you won't get extra 'just in case' tomorrow's problems come early. God's desire is that every day we would 'go confidently to the throne... [to] find kindness, which will help us at the right time' (Hebrews 4:16 GWT).
Over a century ago preacher Charles Spurgeon said: 'Enough for today is all we can enjoy. We cannot eat, drink, or wear more than today's supply of food and clothing. The surplus gives us the care of storing it and the anxiety that someone might steal it... When our Father doesn't give you more, be content with your daily allowance.' Word4U2Day
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The gift hidden in your life
Brethren, each of us who are children of God have been endowed with a power by God, a talent, a gift, a special calling.
It is up to each of us to look for this treasure that God has hidden in the field of our lives, that would bring great joy to our lives if we found it.
Few they are who have discovered the great treasure God has hidden in their lives and fewer still who have put that treasure to work for God that they may have great reward in Heaven.
The power, the talent, the gift hidden in your life would enable you to change the world and turn many to righteousness, if you could find it and unlock it's secrets.
Jesus said, " Seek and you will find."
This great talent hidden in the field of your life would cause you to become a peculiar royal minister of God endowed with power if discovered..
©10/02/2001 Jim Welch
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For A Limited Time
READ: James 4:13-17
You do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away. —James 4:14
On a crisp October morning, our local newspaper featured a stunning photo of sun-drenched aspen trees whose leaves had turned autumn gold. The caption read: FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY. The irresistible invitation to take a drive through the mountains to savor the brilliant colors conveyed the urgency of doing it quickly. Autumn leaves that are golden today are often gone tomorrow.
Our opportunities to obey God’s promptings are also fleeting. James warned against an arrogance that assumes endless days will be available to carry out our good intentions. “You do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away. . . . Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin” (4:14,17).
Is there an act of kindness or encouragement that God has urged you to do for someone in His name? How long has it been since that first prompting? With so many demands on our time, the urgent tasks demand our attention while the important things can be postponed. But a time will come when even the important can no longer be done.
When we follow God’s urging with our action now, today will be golden. — David C. McCasland
If God is prompting you today
To help someone who has a need,
Don’t hesitate, the time is short;
Tomorrow is not guaranteed. —Sper
Doing what’s right today means no regrets tomorrow.
Our Daily Bread
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Thursday, October 2, 2008
No One Knows
"No person knows when that day or time will be. The Son and
the angels in heaven don't know when that day or time will
be. Only the Father knows."
-- Mark 13:32 (ERV)
KEY THOUGHT:
The greatest secret of all time is the exact day and hour of the Lord's
return. So if no one knows, what should our response be to this
knowledge? Doubt? Frustration? Disappointment? No! We know the heart of
God because we have seen his heart revealed to us by Jesus. We know he
desires us to be saved and come to him through Jesus. We know that he
spared no expense to redeem and adopt us into his family. So knowing
what we know about God, we can be sure that his promises can always be
trusted and that our future is secure. Our task is to live for God and
be ready for his Son's return.
TODAY'S PRAYER:
Father, please bless me and help me remain diligent in my faith and
welcome Jesus when he returns. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
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THE PAUSE PART
“As we go through the day we pause, when agitated or doubtful, and ask for the right thought or action.” Alcoholics Anonymous, page 87:3
Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” Colossians 3:12
For what it’s worth: Virtues such as patience did not mix with my alcoholism. The “his majesty, the baby” in me wanted what he wanted right now. And he wanted every one to bow to his royalty and accept his childishness. Of course, no one should expect the same of him. Even after years of practice, virtue does not come easy for me. Every time I think I have mastered a virtue, along comes reality to prove I have not. And I have real difficulty with the “pause” part. I tend to rush in with my own ideas and methods. When I do take time to ask God for His will, I am able to handle situations successfully. I must ask my Heavenly Father each new day to help me pause, when agitated or doubtful, and ask Him for the right thought or action. Actually, I need to renew that prayer often during each day.
God bless you!
Joe W.
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2 Corinthians 6
1As God's fellow workers we urge you not to receive God's grace in vain. 2For he says,
"In the time of my favor I heard you,
and in the day of salvation I helped you."[a] I tell you, now is the time of God's favor, now is the
day of salvation.
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Obedience Brings Success
October 2
Every Scripture is God-breathed (given by His
inspiration) and profitable for instruction, for reproof and conviction of sin, for correction of error and
discipline in obedience, [and] for training in righteousness (in holy living, in conformity to God’s will in
thought, purpose, and action).
—2 Timothy 3:16
The Bible says that we will reap what we sow. The dividing line between success and failure is doing
what God tells us to do. We pray for fruit in our lives, but we don’t always want to pray for roots.
If we want our days to go right, we need to do whatever God tells us to do. If we don’t walk in
obedience, then we can’t complain if we wind up in a mess. If we are lonely and God tells us to invite
somebody over, but we decide it is too much trouble, then we will stay lonely.
Obedience brings the fruit of the Spirit in your life. Dig deep into God’s Word before you walk away
from blessings today.
From the book Starting Your Day Right: Devotions for Each Morning of the Year by Joyce Meyer.
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Daily Thoughts
A Time to Think Vitality shows in not only the ability to persist but the ability to start over. —F. Scott
Fitzgerald
To Act Don’t let what you can’t do, stop you from doing what you can.
To Pray Lord, please use my memory to be a compass that points in the right direction - that of
growing up, in love.
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Minimize All Obstacles.
When faced with a difficult problem, we can sometimes feel overwhelmed. But there is a positive
way to handle problems. Brother Andrews had only three years of schooling, but he used his mind to
the maximum. He would take a problem apart, step-by-step, and study every aspect. He gave the
impression of walking around the difficulty, poking at it here and there. "Every problem has a soft
spot," he declared. "If it is too big for us, we can take it to God. Nothing is too big for Him." And,
invariably the answer would come.
No. 76 in a series of 100 Power Thoughts from The Power of Positive Thinking, the All-Time
inspirational Best-Selling Book by Norman Vincent Peale.
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God’s Diet for Me
October 2nd, 2008 Posted in 1 John, Proverbs | No Comments »
He who is full loathes honey, but to the hungry even what is bitter tastes sweet.
Proverbs 27:7 (NIV)
Have you ever been hungry? I mean – missed several meals hungry? Most of us have no idea what
that means. We have always had enough to eat.
The writer of Proverbs reminds me that when I am full of Thanksgiving dinner – even pecan pie may
not sound good to eat. (for at least an hour!) But when I am “starving” – even liver and onions is a
feast!
And so this verse in Proverbs becomes wisdom and a warning: “Fill yourself with ‘God things’, Jody,
or ‘un-Godly things’ may tempt you!”
Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not
in him. For everything in the world – the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting
of what he has and does – comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires
pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever. 1 John 2:15-17 (NIV)
How strong yet clear are John’s words!
John echoes Peter’s words that we should live as aliens and not crave the pleasures of this world.
(1Peter 2) They both are quite forceful and explicit that looking at what we can accumulate here –
money, ‘treasures’ if you will – will only end in – nothing – for it will all end in dust! Instead, when I
look to God and walk in obedience to Him there will be abundant treasures that will not decay.
How do I know what is God’s will for my life? A decade ago there was a popular bracelet that many
of us wore: “WWJD”, “What Would Jesus Do”. Jesus said that the food that he desires and sustains
Him – is doing the will of His Father. (John 4:34) Whatever I do each day, am I able to ask God to
bless it? Am I moving toward what He wants me to do each day or trying to beckon Him over to my
way?
So – as I begin my day – do I sense God’s eyes on me? Do I know that He is watching? Do I sense
His approval? His blessing? Each day I am learning to change my ‘diet’ so I am full of God’s chosen
foods for me.
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NACR Daily Meditation
Thursday 2nd of October 2008
The Lord your God is with you he is mighty to save. He will take great delight
in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.
Zephaniah 3:17
God comforts and takes joy in his children. We are like infants in his arms.
God delights in us, quiets us with his love, and sings for joy over us.
It may be very difficult to imagine God so full of joy over you. This image is especially difficult for
people who have been abandoned physically or emotionally by parents. You may have
been unwanted. You may have been criticized and rejected. You may have been
abused at the hands of the people you needed most to comfort you.
But we are not unwanted by God. We will not be rejected or abused by God.
God delights in us. God longs to quiet our agitation and anxiety with love. God is so glad we are alive.
God sings for joy! The Creator of the Universe takes such delight in us and sings for joy!
Do you delight in me, God?
Are you glad I’m alive?
You amaze me!
Help me, Father God,
to experience your protection.
Help me, Mother God,
to experience your nurture.
Quiet my anxious heart.
Sing to me, God.
Sing your songs of joy to me until I am quieted with your love.
Amen.
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The Duty and Joy of Love
Malachi 1:2: “‘I have loved you,’ says the Lord.”
Some of us may be afraid to let love become emotional. We have agreed to love objectively. Didn’t
we say, “I do” or “I will?” Yet, we balk at the thought of giving into sentimentality, holding at bay our
genuine feelings. We love primarily with our heads and not our hearts.
Perhaps we have been conditioned to suppress the demonstrative side of love. Maybe we are
frightened we might look foolish, or express our love imperfectly. Sometimes we perfectionists tie up
our emotions into neat little packages. We may try to stuff our true feelings, so we will appear more
in control; more �right.�
God loves us emotionally as well as intellectually. As a result I have gained permission to reverse my
restrictive view of love. I am learning that the necessary elements of love which include commitment
and duty, can live peaceably with love’s emotional side. Feeling and verbalizing love is acceptable to
God.
Lord, thank you for loving me with everything
that you are and not just the duty part.
Teach me to recognize and verbalize my feelings.
I wish to know the joy as well as the responsibility of loving others.
2008 Joan C. Webb
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John's Story
By: Ron Edmondson Thursday, October 02, 2008
When Jesus saw His mother there, and the disciple whom He loved standing nearby, He said to His
mother, “Dear woman, here is your son,” and to the disciple, “Here is your mother.” From that time
on, this disciple took her into his home. John 19:26-27 NIV
What an honor! John, the great disciple of God, was asked to care for the mother of Jesus. Do you
think Jesus would have been careful in the selection of this person?
John was perhaps closer to Jesus than any other disciple. Probably an early follower of John the
Baptist, John refers to himself as “the disciple whom Jesus loved.” I don't think John was stuck on
himself, actually to the contrary. Throughout the book of John, John refuses to name himself, even
when he has done something great.
One thing we can be sure of with John and his brother James is they had a fire in their heart for
Jesus! In fact, you can be sure that in whatever John was involved, he would display passion. Jesus
nicknamed him and his brother James “Sons of Thunder” most likely for their quick-tempered spirits.
I think Jesus was also referring to the great devotion and energy of their lives.
John was in the inner circle of Christ. He accompanied Jesus to the high mountain where they met
Moses and Elijah. No doubt, John was never the same again. John may have been the sole disciple
at the crucifixion, perhaps being the only one who had the courage to stay in spite of the danger.
In my mind, however, John is best noted for his tremendous contribution to the Word of God,
inspired by the Holy Spirit. The last of the gospels to be written, the book of John is packed full of
inspiring truths. John alone tells of the reappearing of Christ to the disciples, how Christ fed them
breakfast, and of the moving reinstatement of Peter to the Lord.
As we strive to be like Christ, we can look favorably to the example of John-- a faithful, devoted,
passionate follower whom Jesus Loved. May it be said of you and me!
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Proverbs chapter 2
WISDOM
MEMORY VERSE: Proverbs 2:6: For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge
and understanding.
Wisdom is defined as: "The power of true and right discernment."
And we need it.
Somewhere along the line, man decided that education could be his saviour. But experience has
taught us that full heads and empty hearts bring tragic results. We need more than an accumulation
of facts to solve our problems.
We can build luxurious homes that are beyond the wildest dreams of our forefathers. But more
homes are coming apart than ever before.
We have produced an army of experts on the causes of crime. The crime rate soars in spite of our
know-how.
Knowledge of the atom, hoped to solve the energy needs of the world and be the miracle fuel of the
latter part of the century, has been disappointing. The chief use of this mindboggling breakthrough
continues to be the continual buildup of armaments and a steady march toward Armageddon.
Man's wheel-spinning predicament in the last days, in spite of his great knowledge, is foretold in this
one descriptive statement in Paul's revelation concerning the end time: "Ever learning, and never
able to come to the knowledge of the truth" (II Timothy 3:7).
But what is the reason for this contradiction? A lack of wisdom.
And where is that available? From the Lord: "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that
giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him" (James 1:5).
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Proverbs chapter 2
WISDOM
MEMORY VERSE: Proverbs 2:6: For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge
and understanding.
Wisdom is defined as: "The power of true and right discernment."
And we need it.
Somewhere along the line, man decided that education could be his saviour. But experience has
taught us that full heads and empty hearts bring tragic results. We need more than an accumulation
of facts to solve our problems.
We can build luxurious homes that are beyond the wildest dreams of our forefathers. But more
homes are coming apart than ever before.
We have produced an army of experts on the causes of crime. The crime rate soars in spite of our
know-how.
Knowledge of the atom, hoped to solve the energy needs of the world and be the miracle fuel of the
latter part of the century, has been disappointing. The chief use of this mindboggling breakthrough
continues to be the continual buildup of armaments and a steady march toward Armageddon.
Man's wheel-spinning predicament in the last days, in spite of his great knowledge, is foretold in this
one descriptive statement in Paul's revelation concerning the end time: "Ever learning, and never
able to come to the knowledge of the truth" (II Timothy 3:7).
But what is the reason for this contradiction? A lack of wisdom.
And where is that available? From the Lord: "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that
giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him" (James 1:5).
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Love Worth Finding - Oct. 2, 2008
October 2
Ready to Face Trials & Temptations
“There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not
suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to
escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” 1 Corinthians 10:13
Winston Churchill was speaking to the House of Commons one day when he gave this advice, “We
must always be ready to meet at our average moment, the thing that any possible enemy could hurl
against us at his selected moment.”
Satan could hurl a deadly temptation at you at any given moment. The phone could ring with terrible
news about a friend. A police officer could knock on your door to inform you of a tragedy in your
family.
Trials can come with such a force that they blow you off course. Temptation can strike at your
backside and almost give you whiplash!
It is not God’s will that you have a vacancy of temptation or trials but that you have victory in
temptation and trials.
Are you ready at this moment to meet what the devil may throw at you or what God may allow to
come your way? Get ready by spending time in His precious word today.
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Salt and Light
Sharon Jaynes
Today’s Truth
“You are the salt of the earth. You are the light of the world” (Matthew 5:13,14 NIV).
Friend to Friend
You are the salt of the earth.
Have you ever tasted potatoes without salt added? They are bland, blasé, and blah. Likewise, a
world without Christians would be very unappealing.
Salt has three primary purposes. It preserves, heals, and gives flavor. As Christians, one of our
privileges is to preserve what is right and good in the world in which we live. Satan is referred to as
a roaring lion. He prowls around seeking to rip Judeo Christian values from the government, public
schools, entertainment industry, and the very fabric of life. Christians, on the other hand, serve to
preserve the values of our godly heritage.
Salt is also an effective healing agent. Gargling with salt water helps heal a sore throat, swimming in
a salty sea helps heal a skinned knee, and fellowshipping with “salty” Christians helps heal wounded
souls by introducing them to spiritual, mental and physical wellness afforded them through a
relationship with Jehovah Rapha – the One who heals.
The most common use of salt is to add flavor, and as Christians, we add flavor to our world. A
gourmet cook once told me that salt not only gives food the salty flavor, but it also brings out the
natural flavor of the food to which it is added. As Christians, we should bring out the best in other
people
You are the light of the world.
For eighteen years, I worked as a Dental Hygienist. Fourteen of those years I worked with my
husband, Steve, and four to six other Christian women. When I think back on those days, I see our
team as a chandelier of light: individual yet united to shine the light of Christ to our patients. In the
reception room, Newsweek, Southern Living, and Better Homes and Gardens were mixed in with
Focus on the Family, Guidepost, and Decision magazines.
Steve and his assistant volleyed ideas about various aspects of the Christian faith back and forth like
a tennis ball over a net while they worked on patients. Talk about a captive audience! We prayed
with patients, sent them books, and listened to their family problems. Someone once asked, “Aren’t
you afraid you’ll offend someone and lose patients?”
“Someone might leave,” I answered. “But a person can get into heaven with a cavity, but they can’t
get to heaven without knowing Christ.”
In our own simple way, we were being light in a very dark world.
Think for a moment about what light does. It drives out darkness. Even the smallest birthday candle
in a darkened coliseum will push the darkness aside. Jesus encourages Christians not to hide their
light under a bushel, but to put it on a stand to be seen by all. Jesus said He was the light of the
world. He has put that same light in you. It is part of your new identity.
Robert Louis Stevenson said, “When a happy man comes into a room, it is as if another candle has
been lighted.” How much more does a Christian who has something to be truly happy about light up
a room!
Let’s Pray
Dear Lord, I look around and see what the world would be like if all the Christian influences were
removed. Help me to make a difference in my sphere of influence, bring the healing of Jesus Christ
to those I come in contact, and encourage the best in others to surface. Help me be salt and light in
the world.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen
Now It’s Your Turn
What do you think this verse means? "You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness,
how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and
trampled by men.” (Matthew 5:13)
What do you think this verse means? "You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden.
Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives
light to everyone in the house.” (Matthew 5:14,15)
Think of one way that you and your family can be salt and light in the world today.
Try sprinkling a little salt by giving words of encouragement to at least five people today.
More From The Girlfriends
I don’t know about you, but I want to be a salty Christian! If you would like to learn more about you
role as salt and light, see Experience the Ultimate Makeover by Sharon Jaynes. It’s sure to make
you thirsty for more of the only One who can quench your thirst!
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Devotional For Dieters
October 2
Ephesians 6:13
Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day,
and having done all, to stand.
Even the mightiest warrior of old was not foolish enough to enter battle without protection.
Strength must be tempered with common sense. When we wage war on fat, we need to be well-
equipped for the fray. If we give something up, we need to have something to replace it with. Jesus
proposed that we should not live by bread only, but upon the word of God. We can protect ourselves
from temptation by faith. God will fight our battle alongside us. With Christ, we become an invincible
army. We can carry on in the strength of the Spirit, which will allow us to conquer our weight and
fears. With Christ comes true power.
Today's thought: With Jesus' might, my fat I'll fight!
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Parenting by Design - Oct. 2, 2008
Respect
Psalm 123:1-2: “To Thee I lift my eyes, O Thou who art enthroned in the heavens! Behold, as the
eyes of servants look to the hand of their master, as the eyes of a maid to the hand of her mistress;
so our eyes look to the Lord our God, until He shall be gracious to us” (NASB).
God offers divine instruction for living, but he also loves us enough to give us free will. The psalmist
expresses confidence that God has his best interests at heart and this confidence leads him to a
spirit of trust, respect, and submission to God’s will.
Although we often know what is best, many times our children still choose to disobey. A parent's
genuine love and concern even in the face of disobedience can foster the kind of respect that will
cause kids to be more willing to submit to authority the next time. This is especially true of
teenagers.
Show God’s love to your children and their growing respect will cause them to desire your direction.
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Copycats
Kevin angrily slammed the kitchen door as he entered the room. Startled, Dad looked up from the
table where he was reading the newspaper. "Tell Nate to quit copying me," said Kevin, crossing his
arms over his chest. "He's always following me around, and he tries to do everything I do." As Dad
put down the paper, Nate rushed into the kitchen. He marched over to his brother and promptly
crossed his arms, too. "See what I mean?" complained Kevin as Nate stared up at him.
Dad motioned for Nate to come sit beside him. "Okay, Son," said Dad, "you need to leave your
brother alone now." Then Dad looked at Kevin. "Nate copies you because he wants to be like you,"
said Dad. "Take it as a compliment."
Kevin frowned. "I don't like copycats," he grumbled.
"You don't? Well, the Bible verses I read this morning tell me we should all be copycats," said Dad.
He reached over, picked up his Bible, and opened it. "Come here." Dad pulled out the chair on the
other side of him. Kevin shuffled over to the table and sat down. "Here," said Dad. "Read Ephesians
5:1 out loud for us."
Kevin took the Bible and looked at the verse Dad indicated. "Therefore be imitators of God, as dear
children," he read.
"What do imitators do?" Dad asked. Kevin shrugged. Nate shrugged, too. "They copy," said Dad.
"We're to copy God." Dad smiled at the boys. "Nate cares for you, Kevin, and he shows it by wanting
to do the same things you do. If we love God, we should show that by copying the way Jesus would
behave in various situations and by developing attitudes and actions God wants to see in us."
Kevin scratched his head. Giggling, Nate did the same. Then Kevin gave his brother a quick playful
punch on the shoulder. Nate punched back. He squealed as Kevin tackled him, and together they fell
to the floor, laughing.
Dad laughed, too. "Enough, boys," he said. "And no more copying Kevin right now, Nate. Leave him
alone for a while. Let's just all do our best to copy actions Jesus would take so that whatever we do
will please Him."
HOW ABOUT YOU?
Do you get frustrated when others imitate you? Do younger brothers or sisters-or perhaps
classmates or neighbors-repeat what you say, act the way you act, and try to look like you by
wearing similar clothes? No doubt they do it because they admire you, so take it as a compliment. If
you love Jesus, treat them the way He would. In other words, copy the way you believe Jesus would
behave. Let others see Jesus in you by the way you respond to various situations.
TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
Be imitators of God as dear children. Ephesians 5:1
Keys For Kids Devotion
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God’s Workmanship
by Gail Rodgers
It’s important to accept what God says about who we are. All too often we live with feelings of deep inadequacy. We may regret the past or fear the future. In life’s crazy pace it’s easy to forget to schedule in time with our Lord and to ask ourselves, “Am I growing or eroding in who I am becoming?”
A wise person grows in understanding who he is.
One who knows how God sees him is confident in his identity. He knows God made him just the way he is and for specific tasks. He does not compare the inside of himself with the outside of another.
He makes the effort to grow in his knowledge of the truth of what God says about him. One who understands who he is in God’s sight knows he is:
* Accepted (Ephesians 1:5)
* Secure (Philippians 1:6)
* Significant (John 15:16)
His identity is not bound up in what he has, how he looks or what he wears. His identity is secured in who he is as a beloved child of God.
“For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do” (Ephesians 2:10).
Read Psalm 139 and ask God to fill your heart with the knowledge of just how esteemed you are in God’s sight. Ask Him to help you grow in your understanding of who you really are!
~ Father God, Sometimes it’s hard for me to think of myself as a piece of Your artwork, created to be just who I am. Help me to embrace the knowledge of who You say I am! I know all too well the weaknesses in me. I invite You to use these very things that I dislike about myself to be the entry point of Your strength and power in my Iife. I know You have things for me to do that go beyond this “to do” list of mine. Show me who You want to touch through me. Help me to live as an accepted, secure and significant child of the Almighty God today by the power of Your Holy Spirit. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.
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Satan's Wiles
1 Peter 5:8, "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour."
Have you ever been tempted? I suspect we all have been. Satan is called "the tempter," in Matthew 4:3, and he is still the tempter to us today. He has had at least 6000 years to watch and observe human behavior, and he certainly has gathered more than a little experience doing his occupation in that time. He has learned how to tempt kings, but also those who take up residence in the subways of NYC. He has watched us all, and he knows us well. He watches one and sees that he/she is lazy, and so Satan tempts them with TV shows or video games. He notices a guy with an eye for the ladies, and tempts him with pornography. He notices that a young woman has a propensity toward the latest fashion, and so he tempts her with the latest style, shoe, or bag that is beyond her budget and will force her into debt, or to neglect giving sacrificially to the things of the Lord.
It is what Satan does. He tempts us, and he is good at it. What we might be able to conceal from our best friend, Satan knows of us. He puts the idea close to our heart and gives us all the freedom and opportunity possible unto mischief. It is no wonder that Scripture admonishes us to be sober and vigilant.
Satan is much like a chameleon in his methods. He makes our temptation in the shape most attractive to us to give into. If we are very careful about our own conduct, Satan will tempt us to legalism and judging others. If we are more free and allow latitude in the things we do, Satan will tempt us to a liberality that transgresses God's law and our conscience. Are we flexible, "go with the flow" types? Depend upon it that you will be tempted to be inconsistent in your walk and profession of Christ. He lays the traps according to our weakness. However best he may do it, he seeks to ensnare us, weaken our faith, usefulness and constancy in the things of Christ. Satan knows just how and when to lacerate our hearts. It is no wonder that so many of those who make a good beginning in Christ end up rusty with sin. Our adversary is quite well-schooled in bringing us down.
A couple of things to consider here: We will never be tempted without permission given from the very throne of the Father, where Jesus pleads for us. Also when we are tempted, we are always provided with a way of escape. If there is no way of escape, there will be the grace given to us to withstand the temptation. We need not yield to Satan's wiles. He is ever evil, and he always wants our worst. We see this in the first two chapters of the book of Job. What did Satan wish to do to Job in afflicting him? A simple reading of the text tell us that Satan wanted to do as much to Job as God would let him. He had the worst in mind for Job. Let us not expect that he has any other desires for us.
When we are faithful and resist the temptations, God is glorified. It is to His glory that we are able to withstand Satan. Left to ourselves - be honest - we would fall every time. Oh, but we have so great a Savior who pleads for us and ever makes intercession on our behalf before the Father, "He ever liveth to make intercession for them," Hebrews 7:25.
Soli Deo Gloria,
T-
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Surely God is in this place and I did not know it.
—Genesis 28:16
There are times in our lives when we are sure of God's presence.
Sometimes, during a Bible study, someone will have the courage to say to a believer, “But how do you know?” The discussion that follows is sure to be full of stories. One person remembers when “something happened” that was far beyond expectation. Another remembers kneeling in prayer and feeling a burden lifted. It would not be surprising if laughter and tears mark both those stories.
But there are also times when we've thought God has deserted us. I had been a pastor most of my life. And then, one day, a stroke came my way. Over the course of several days, as billions of neurons fell away from my brain, I began to lose track of life. I could scarcely recognize myself. My voice didn't fit. My thoughts didn't make sense. Or, when they did make sense, they did so without coherence. Words no longer gave themselves, and the tried and true rhythms of pastoral ministry no longer worked.
In the hospital, when my pastor prayed with me, I suddenly realized my prayers felt empty. It is through prayer that we establish a relationship with God, and it is through prayer that God establishes a relationship with us. When the part of my brain responsible for relational thinking washed away, so did prayer. It was as though God suddenly disappeared.
In time, and after months of rehabilitation, life began to make sense again. Its arrival was slow, incredibly slow. I often had to leave worship services early to avoid the crush of people whose loving energy I could still not navigate.
But one Sunday, when I once again left early, I walked outside and found a flock of cedar waxwings in a sumac tree. To my astonishment, the 50 or so birds did not take flight. I watched them, and they watched me. And then, after several minutes, they all arose at once, carrying the prayers I felt but could not speak into the hands of God. After months of wondering where God had gone, I realized God was still present, still caring, and still part of my life.
Gracious God, sometimes we believe and then perceive you. And sometimes we perceive you and then believe. In whatever way you choose, and whenever you determine the time is ripe, we ask that we might be assured of your loving presence. Amen.
The Signposts
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Full of Light
"The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are good, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eyes are bad your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness." Matt. 6:22, 23
The amount of light that our natural eyes take in depends on what and where we focus our eyes. If we are in a room full of light, we will see that light, but if we walk into the darkness, we will stumble. The same principle applies to our spiritual eyesight. What is it that we focus on? If we focus on Christ, we will be filled with light because Jesus Christ is the light of the world. When we focus on Him, we will be able to see clearly where the Lord wishes us to go. We will be able to see how we can best serve Him. We will be able to live the life of joy in His light. If on the other hand, we look away from Christ and turn our focus to the trials of life, or the busyness of our schedule, or spend our time focusing on the things of this world, our spirituality will suffer, for we will be full of darkness. The darkness of the world will strip away the joy of living in the light. You may not have spent a lot of time thinking about it this way. Satan would rob of us of the light of Christ and the best way to do that is to distract us and draw our attention away from the blessed savior who died for us. When we are overcome with the weariness of life, our world does begin to darken, but it takes only a look at our Savior to bring us back into the light. Do not go through life in the dark, when the light is but a glance away. Paul tells us to "fix" our eyes on Jesus. We must make a concerted effort to keep them focused on Him and when we do, our lives will be filled with the glorious light of the Savior.
Father, forgive us for letting the worries of this world and the busyness of life draw us away from Christ. Help us to fix our eyes upon Him, that we might live in the light. We have lived in darkness for too long, dear Lord. We long to live in the light. We need your strength to do that, your Spirit to help keep our eyes on Christ. We thank you for your help and pray that all the glory and honor will be yours when we begin to live in the light as you would have us do. Amen Quiet Waters
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His Love Has Not Changed
Matthew 15:32
Pastor Carl H Stevens
"And Jesus went forth, and saw a great multitude, and was moved with compassion toward them, and he healed their sick" (Matthew 14:14). "Then Jesus called his disciple unto him, and said, I have compassion on the multitude, because they continue with me now three days, and have nothing to eat: and I will not send them away fasting, lest they faint in the way" (Matthew 15:32). "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killeth the prophets..how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not!" (Matthew 23:37). The Lord Jesus Christ was moved with a heart of compassion throughout His ministry on earth.
With this in mind, we must remember, "Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and forever" (Hebrews 13:8). "I am the Lord and I change not" (Malachi 3:6a).
It is the Lord's desire to heal us mentally, emotionally and physically. "For I am the Lord that healeth thee" (Exodus 15:26b). God has a far greater degree of compassion than any of His children do. He will never give us a stone for bread (2). Never forget that He is your heavenly Father. He desires to deliver, reconcile, reinstate, reinforce and to have a very intimate relationship with you. He loves you deeply and praise God, He does not change!
Then Jesus called his disciples unto him, and said, I have compassion on the multitude, because they continue with me now three days, and have nothing to eat: and I will not send them away fasting, lest they faint in the way.
Matthew 15:32
If a son shall ask bread of any of you that is a father, will he give him a stone? or if he ask a fish, will he for a fish give him a serpent?
Luke 11:11
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Enough for today
"DON'T GET WORKED UP ABOUT...TOMORROW."
MATTHEW 6:34 TM
Author, Max Lucado says, 'Worry is to joy, what a vacuum cleaner is to dirt; you might as well attach your heart to a happiness-sucker and flip the switch.' Jesus said, 'Don't get worked up about...tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes.' When it looks like things are falling apart, Paul reminds us, 'Every detail in our lives... is worked into something good' (Rom 8:28 TM). When it seems like the world's gone mad, don't forget God 'existed before anything else, and he holds all creation together' (Col 1:17 NLT). When worry whispers, 'God doesn't know what you need,' remember God promised to 'take care of everything you need' (Philippians 4:19 TM).
Jesus taught us to pray, 'Give us this day our daily bread.' That means you won't get extra 'just in case' tomorrow's problems come early. God's desire is that every day we would 'go confidently to the throne... [to] find kindness, which will help us at the right time' (Hebrews 4:16 GWT).
Over a century ago preacher Charles Spurgeon said: 'Enough for today is all we can enjoy. We cannot eat, drink, or wear more than today's supply of food and clothing. The surplus gives us the care of storing it and the anxiety that someone might steal it... When our Father doesn't give you more, be content with your daily allowance.' Word4U2Day
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The gift hidden in your life
Brethren, each of us who are children of God have been endowed with a power by God, a talent, a gift, a special calling.
It is up to each of us to look for this treasure that God has hidden in the field of our lives, that would bring great joy to our lives if we found it.
Few they are who have discovered the great treasure God has hidden in their lives and fewer still who have put that treasure to work for God that they may have great reward in Heaven.
The power, the talent, the gift hidden in your life would enable you to change the world and turn many to righteousness, if you could find it and unlock it's secrets.
Jesus said, " Seek and you will find."
This great talent hidden in the field of your life would cause you to become a peculiar royal minister of God endowed with power if discovered..
©10/02/2001 Jim Welch
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For A Limited Time
READ: James 4:13-17
You do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away. —James 4:14
On a crisp October morning, our local newspaper featured a stunning photo of sun-drenched aspen trees whose leaves had turned autumn gold. The caption read: FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY. The irresistible invitation to take a drive through the mountains to savor the brilliant colors conveyed the urgency of doing it quickly. Autumn leaves that are golden today are often gone tomorrow.
Our opportunities to obey God’s promptings are also fleeting. James warned against an arrogance that assumes endless days will be available to carry out our good intentions. “You do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away. . . . Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin” (4:14,17).
Is there an act of kindness or encouragement that God has urged you to do for someone in His name? How long has it been since that first prompting? With so many demands on our time, the urgent tasks demand our attention while the important things can be postponed. But a time will come when even the important can no longer be done.
When we follow God’s urging with our action now, today will be golden. — David C. McCasland
If God is prompting you today
To help someone who has a need,
Don’t hesitate, the time is short;
Tomorrow is not guaranteed. —Sper
Doing what’s right today means no regrets tomorrow.
Our Daily Bread
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\ / WHAT JESUS DID! -- http://www.heartlight.org/
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Thursday, October 2, 2008
No One Knows
"No person knows when that day or time will be. The Son and
the angels in heaven don't know when that day or time will
be. Only the Father knows."
-- Mark 13:32 (ERV)
KEY THOUGHT:
The greatest secret of all time is the exact day and hour of the Lord's
return. So if no one knows, what should our response be to this
knowledge? Doubt? Frustration? Disappointment? No! We know the heart of
God because we have seen his heart revealed to us by Jesus. We know he
desires us to be saved and come to him through Jesus. We know that he
spared no expense to redeem and adopt us into his family. So knowing
what we know about God, we can be sure that his promises can always be
trusted and that our future is secure. Our task is to live for God and
be ready for his Son's return.
TODAY'S PRAYER:
Father, please bless me and help me remain diligent in my faith and
welcome Jesus when he returns. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
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THE PAUSE PART
“As we go through the day we pause, when agitated or doubtful, and ask for the right thought or action.” Alcoholics Anonymous, page 87:3
Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” Colossians 3:12
For what it’s worth: Virtues such as patience did not mix with my alcoholism. The “his majesty, the baby” in me wanted what he wanted right now. And he wanted every one to bow to his royalty and accept his childishness. Of course, no one should expect the same of him. Even after years of practice, virtue does not come easy for me. Every time I think I have mastered a virtue, along comes reality to prove I have not. And I have real difficulty with the “pause” part. I tend to rush in with my own ideas and methods. When I do take time to ask God for His will, I am able to handle situations successfully. I must ask my Heavenly Father each new day to help me pause, when agitated or doubtful, and ask Him for the right thought or action. Actually, I need to renew that prayer often during each day.
God bless you!
Joe W.