Happy Today everyone! So there is so much going on these past couple of weeks and it isn’t done yet. Many things extend days till late into the night. Many things are joyful and filled with celebrations. Now we need to harness these emotions and feelings to energize us to finish the good works God has prepared in advance for us to accomplish. Let’s harness these emotions to be able to press in and press on to thrive for the glory of God!
Ever get that feeling in your gut, some describe it as butterflies? It can happen when you are feeling excited and when you are feeling nervous. What I try to do is tell myself something exciting is about or is happening whenever I get that feeling so that my brain does cause me to freak out when that feeling happens. Making that choice allows the energy that is building up to be used for good rather than evil. How about you? Do you allow the feeling to energize you or paralyze you? Do you allow the feeling to help you move forward or hold you back? Why not choose to use that energy to strengthen, motivate, and encourage you to do something great for God!
Last week there was the honor of senior awards and then the senior baccalaureate, yesterday was the senior parade after the last day of school and tomorrow is graduation day. So with all this excitement, I try to use it to help me make progress at work, and at home with extra family here for the celebration. The most excitement this week would have to have been celebrating our 25th wedding anniversary. The week’s not over yet and so I am going to choose to harness this energy to help me focus and get stuff done in order to thrive for the glory of God! Let’s allow our faith to overpower and overwhelm our fear! Let’s allow the truth to overwhelm the lies! Let’s make today count!
Today’s Verse of the Day:
‘All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.’
Let’s decide to make today count! Let’s decide to learn through God’s Word! Let’s decide to live our lives in a way that allows God’s Word to speak in and through our words, actions, and thoughts! Let’s decide to live our lives in a way that will allow us to thrive for the glory of God! Invite Jesus into your life! Invite Jesus into your heart! Begin to live transformed lives!
If you pray today’s prayer with me feel free to let me know so I can pray with you and for you too. (If you don’t feel comfortable leaving a comment then you can always try email.
Do you know why you should make today count? Do you realize there are many reasons? First of all, this is the day that the Lord has made, so let us rejoice and be glad in it! This is reason enough to make every today count! I have an extra special reason to make today count as 25 years ago I married the love of my life and she has made me the happiest man, husband, and father I could have imagined! 25 years ago God put into motion a relationship that would draw us closer to Him and strengthen our faith and our love for Him and for one another! For me, every day is Happy Today but today is extra special, and am so glad to get to share this with you and to spend forever with my wife. As I was getting ready this morning I noticed a shirt I hadn’t put out to wear today but it says “Married 25 years and looking forward to forever”. So I put it on and adjusted my planned wardrobe. With guests being here I have to pick my clothes the night before instead of in the morning in the dark and so I know what I was going to wear but an adjustment was needed in order to make today count! Fill it with hope! Fill it with joy! Fill it with faith! Most of all, fill it with love!
Let’s be positive role models today! Let’s make today count in the words we use, the actions we take, and the thoughts we allow to take hold. Let’s consider and choose to consider it pure joy even when we face trials of many kinds! Let’s choose to make today count! Invite Jesus into your heart! Invite Jesus into your life! Allow Him to lead and guide you!
If you pray today’s prayer with me feel free to let me know so I can pray with you and for you too. (If you don’t feel comfortable leaving a comment then you can always try email.
As I reflect on the last 18+ years and how the time is fast approaching with events like senior proms and last club soccer games the reality of a new beginning is surfacing. As the second of three approaches the time of leaving the nest the incredible times when they were all younger start flashing through my mind. Be it the incredible life of my oldest to the incredible life of my middle to the incredible life of my youngest, God has blessed me beyond measure. When I consider how God moved us, God called us, and God has been blessing us I am in awe. When you read scripture verses like:
‘Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.’
God is so good! God is so faithful! The blessings have been so great that they are overflowing as my kids grow up and step out into the world. To see God working and shaping them. To see God calling and sending them. To see God’s hand upon them in all they do. To see the character and integrity. To see the boldness and courageousness. God is worth trusting! God is worth testing when He offers it up to you! God is with asking when you need wisdom and discernment!
Do you trust God? Do you believe His Word is true? Do you want to be like the dad in the story when Jesus asked if he believed?
‘When they came to the other disciples, they saw a large crowd around them and the teachers of the law arguing with them. As soon as all the people saw Jesus, they were overwhelmed with wonder and ran to greet him. “What are you arguing with them about?” he asked. A man in the crowd answered, “Teacher, I brought you my son, who is possessed by a spirit that has robbed him of speech. Whenever it seizes him, it throws him to the ground. He foams at the mouth, gnashes his teeth and becomes rigid. I asked your disciples to drive out the spirit, but they could not.” “You unbelieving generation,” Jesus replied, “how long shall I stay with you? How long shall I put up with you? Bring the boy to me.” So they brought him. When the spirit saw Jesus, it immediately threw the boy into a convulsion. He fell to the ground and rolled around, foaming at the mouth. Jesus asked the boy’s father, “How long has he been like this?” “From childhood,” he answered. “It has often thrown him into fire or water to kill him. But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us.” “ ‘If you can’?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for one who believes.” Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” When Jesus saw that a crowd was running to the scene, he rebuked the impure spirit. “You deaf and mute spirit,” he said, “I command you, come out of him and never enter him again.” The spirit shrieked, convulsed him violently and came out. The boy looked so much like a corpse that many said, “He’s dead.” But Jesus took him by the hand and lifted him to his feet, and he stood up. After Jesus had gone indoors, his disciples asked him privately, “Why couldn’t we drive it out?” He replied, “This kind can come out only by prayer.” ‘
Do you want to experience a miracle? It takes believing! Even if your faith is small and new, faith the size of a mustard seed can make things happen!
‘When they came to the crowd, a man approached Jesus and knelt before him. “Lord, have mercy on my son,” he said. “He has seizures and is suffering greatly. He often falls into the fire or into the water. I brought him to your disciples, but they could not heal him.” “You unbelieving and perverse generation,” Jesus replied, “how long shall I stay with you? How long shall I put up with you? Bring the boy here to me.” Jesus rebuked the demon, and it came out of the boy, and he was healed at that moment. Then the disciples came to Jesus in private and asked, “Why couldn’t we drive it out?” He replied, “Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.” ‘
So today, even as we see a phase coming to a close let’s hold tight to God and trust Him to be with and go with them as the next phase of the journey begins. Let’s choose to live for the glory of God and thrive!
TODAY’S VERSE OF THE DAY:
‘Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.’
Are you ready for today? This is the day that the Lord has made so will you rejoice and be glad in it? Are you ready? Are you believing? Are you trusting? Are you moving? Will you invite Jesus into your heart today to help you? Will you invite Jesus into your life and situation to help you?
If you pray today’s prayer with me feel free to let me know so I can pray with you and for you too. (If you don’t feel comfortable leaving a comment then you can always try email.
Some call today the bump in the week or humpday but whatever you call it, we are halfway through the week and so let’s choose to use this bump as a launch ramp for the various things on our plate so that we can thrive!
Let’s take the good works God has prepared in advance for us to accomplish and launch them into action! Let’s take the projects we have at hand and launch them into action! Let’s take the service and leadership roles we have and launch them into action! Let’s put our faith into action in order that we can thrive for the glory of God!
‘but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.’
‘“If you have raced with men on foot and they have worn you out, how can you compete with horses? If you stumble in safe country, how will you manage in the thickets by the Jordan? ‘
How are you today? Where are you at? What are you pursuing? Are you ready to trust? Are you ready to go? Are you ready to accept? Are you ready to receive it? Will you choose to invite Jesus into your situation today? Will you choose to invite Jesus into your life today? Could today be the turning point? Could today be the launch point?
If you pray today’s prayer with me feel free to let me know so I can pray with you and for you too. (If you don’t feel comfortable leaving a comment then you can always try email.
Ever considered the things in this life that you have to do? Ever looked at it from a different perspective where you get to do? Do you have to work or do you get to work? Do you have to serve or do you get to serve? Do you have to love or do you get to love? Do you have to be loved or do you get to be loved? Do you have to be forgiven or do you get to be forgiven?
Consider Jesus on His way back to Jerusalem and scripture tells us He had to go through Samaria. History tells us that most Jews would go out of their way and even take twice as long going twice as far to avoid going through Samaria. Did Jesus have to go through Samaria? No. But the Spirit of God, God’s purposes, and plans made it so that He had to go through Samaria and meet the lady at the well. God had a plan and a purpose for Jesus’ time on earth and led by the Holy Spirit Jesus walked in obedience to the Father’s will and accomplished everything He had to do! By being obedient, Jesus transforms lives because of His love and obedience and so had to! He had to die on the cross to make a way for us to be forgiven and reconciled to God! He had to go to Samaria to meet the woman at the well and show how God’s love was for everyone! So let’s choose to love and be obedient to God’s will, God’s prompting, God’s purpose, and God’s plan for our lives! Not because we have to but rather because we get to!
‘Now Jesus learned that the Pharisees had heard that he was gaining and baptizing more disciples than John— although in fact it was not Jesus who baptized, but his disciples. So he left Judea and went back once more to Galilee. Now he had to go through Samaria. So he came to a town in Samaria called Sychar, near the plot of ground Jacob had given to his son Joseph. Jacob’s well was there, and Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well. It was about noon. When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, “Will you give me a drink?” (His disciples had gone into the town to buy food.) The Samaritan woman said to him, “You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?” (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans. ) Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water.” “Sir,” the woman said, “you have nothing to draw with and the well is deep. Where can you get this living water? Are you greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did also his sons and his livestock?” Jesus answered, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” The woman said to him, “Sir, give me this water so that I won’t get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water.” He told her, “Go, call your husband and come back.” “I have no husband,” she replied. Jesus said to her, “You are right when you say you have no husband. The fact is, you have had five husbands, and the man you now have is not your husband. What you have just said is quite true.” “Sir,” the woman said, “I can see that you are a prophet. Our ancestors worshiped on this mountain, but you Jews claim that the place where we must worship is in Jerusalem.” “Woman,” Jesus replied, “believe me, a time is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. You Samaritans worship what you do not know; we worship what we do know, for salvation is from the Jews. Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.” The woman said, “I know that Messiah” (called Christ) “is coming. When he comes, he will explain everything to us.” Then Jesus declared, “I, the one speaking to you—I am he.” Just then his disciples returned and were surprised to find him talking with a woman. But no one asked, “What do you want?” or “Why are you talking with her?” Then, leaving her water jar, the woman went back to the town and said to the people, “Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did. Could this be the Messiah?” They came out of the town and made their way toward him. Meanwhile his disciples urged him, “Rabbi, eat something.” But he said to them, “I have food to eat that you know nothing about.” Then his disciples said to each other, “Could someone have brought him food?” “My food,” said Jesus, “is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work. Don’t you have a saying, ‘It’s still four months until harvest’? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest. Even now the one who reaps draws a wage and harvests a crop for eternal life, so that the sower and the reaper may be glad together. Thus the saying ‘One sows and another reaps’ is true. I sent you to reap what you have not worked for. Others have done the hard work, and you have reaped the benefits of their labor.” Many of the Samaritans from that town believed in him because of the woman’s testimony, “He told me everything I ever did.” So when the Samaritans came to him, they urged him to stay with them, and he stayed two days. And because of his words many more became believers. They said to the woman, “We no longer believe just because of what you said; now we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this man really is the Savior of the world.” ‘
Let’s walk looking at the calling of God as a gift and a blessing that we get to…
Let’s walk receiving the prompting, leading, and directing of the Holy Spirit as a gift and a blessing that we get to …
Let’s choose to be transformed and live our lives connected to Jesus and producing the fruit of the Holy Spirit because we get to …
Are you ready to thrive? Are you ready to thrive for the glory of God? Could today be the beginning of something incredible as you allow God to work in and through you giving you good works to accomplish what you get to do?
So today you will be faced with choices. Today you will be faced with decisions. You get to decide how you will proceed. You get to decide what you will let in. You get to decide who you will allow to speak into your life. Are you ready to invite Jesus in? Are you ready to invite God into your thoughts? Are you ready to invite Jesus into your heart? Are you ready to get to be God’s hands extended? Are you ready to get to be God’s arms embracing? Are you ready to get to be God’s voice of love and hope?
If you pray today’s prayer with me feel free to let me know so I can pray with you and for you too. (If you don’t feel comfortable leaving a comment then you can always try email.
What an incredibly powerful day it is. Resurrection Sunday, the day that Jesus conquered the power of sin and death when He rose from the dead! Jesus wasn’t in the tomb when they came looking for Him! I still remember the Easter I was able to play both a disciple for Good Friday and the angel at the tomb for Resurrection Sunday. I still remember the experience and the encounter. Let’s check out the story from Matthew 28:
‘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. Then go quickly and tell his disciples: ‘He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.’ Now I have told you.” So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples. Suddenly Jesus met them. “Greetings,” he said. They came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him. Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.” ‘
The angel’s words of “do not be afraid” always get me because they obviously must look imposing, intimidating, and powerful and the people who have the encounter seem to always be afraid or fearful in the moment. Jesus told everyone that He needed to die to finish the work of the Father and that in three days He would rise again. Jesus knew why He had come:
‘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. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. ‘
So are you ready to thrive by the power of Jesus? Are you ready to thrive in pursuing God’s purpose for your life? Are you ready to thrive doing what God has prepared in advance for you to accomplish? Are you ready to thrive for the glory of God? Are you ready to hear from God and find your purpose? Are you ready to seek God and discover your purpose? Are you ready to step up and step out in pursuit of your purpose? Are you ready to thrive for the glory of God?
Verse of the Day:
‘He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. ‘
So where are you at today? Are you ready to invite Jesus in? Are you ready to be transformed from the inside out? Are you ready to have your heart transformed so that what comes out of it will be good? Let’s invite Jesus in today as we celebrate Easter and the power of the resurrection and empty tomb.
If you pray today’s prayer with me feel free to let me know so I can pray with you and for you too. (If you don’t feel comfortable leaving a comment then you can always try email or text.
Can you believe it is March already? When I look back to the year starting with major change and the trickle-down impact it would or was going to have, I couldn’t imagine we would be at this point today. When I consider 2022 and the speed at which time has taken us into the third year of the month blows my mind. At the same time, the decision speed is an interesting area because it depends on perspective and where you are looking as well as where you are looking from. From one perspective it seems like progress and significant progress has been made with the decisions that were made and actions that were taken. From another perspective, it seems like a forgotten asset or an asset that nobody is sure what to do with, even though they know it is needed to continue. From another perspective, looking over the landscape and considering the place where THRIVE is able to happen instead of surviving or existing comes to mind where you can look to the left and see stability, need, and constants, while looking to the right you see opportunity, excitement, need, and growth. The reality is from our perspective we can’t see the full picture. The reality is that we need God’s perspective because He sees everything, from the beginning to the end, He has a plan and a purpose, and to accomplish His will, we need His wisdom and discernment. we need His instruction and direction, we need a word from Him.
So today we need confirmation from God. We have the opportunity to speak with godly men and hear their thoughts and their views of what is yet to come. We have the opportunity to speak with men who trust in God for their own lives. We have the opportunity to hear what they think and what they recommend. In the midst of all of this, we need God to speak and make it clear. We need God to provide direction and peace about going in that direction. We need God to provide direction and that we will be bold and courageous to obey and step into what He is calling us to do. We need God to provide confirmation so that we can step up and step out in faith, even if we can only see the first step of the staircase and move forward into God’s purpose and God’s plan for our life. So today, as my day begins, I lean in on God and look to hear from Him through His Word and through my brothers in Christ, in order to discern God’s will and plan for me today.
Verse of the Day:
‘My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God? ‘
As a deer pants for streams of water, my soul pants for God. My soul thirst for God who I go to and meet with. I am so grateful for Jesus who came that I didn’t need another mediator between me and God but I can go directly to God thanks to what He did. I am so grateful that I don’t need to go it alone but can turn to Jesus at the crossroads of life for wisdom and direction. I am so grateful that I don’t need to figure it out on my own because Jesus sent me the Holy Spirit to be my comforter and my guide, my counselor, and my advocate. So today, rather than worrying or getting anxious, I am able to cast my cares on God because He cares for me and I can be in a relationship with God to learn and grow and know which way to go. I don’t have to wait to go and meet with God but can call at Him right where I am at because He is Immanuel, God with us! He will never leave me and never abandon me! So I put my hope and trust in God as I start off this day!
‘Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel. ‘
‘Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” Then Moses summoned Joshua and said to him in the presence of all Israel, “Be strong and courageous, for you must go with this people into the land that the Lord swore to their ancestors to give them, and you must divide it among them as their inheritance. The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” ‘
‘Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” ‘
‘We wait in hope for the Lord; he is our help and our shield. In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name. May your unfailing love be with us, Lord, even as we put our hope in you.’
So where are you today? Are you starting your day off with God? Are you spending time to hear from God? Will you invite Jesus into your very situation to help you identify and resolve the situation?
If you pray today’s prayer with me feel free to let me know so I can pray with you and for you too. (If you don’t feel comfortable leaving a comment then you can always try email or text.
As I kick off this workweek I realize that THRIVE isn’t just for me but it is also for my family. As I consider what it takes to THRIVE I realize the environment is a key element to being able to grow vigorously, to flourish, and to take new ground regardless of the circumstances. If we think about our lives like we would take care of plants we realize that we need to ensure there is adequate light, let the light of God shine on us, lead us and guide us, purify and strengthen us. If we want to thrive we need adequate water, we need to be so connected to Jesus who gives us the right quality and type of water so that we won’t thirst anymore. If we want to thrive we need to ensure we don’t leak too much or too quickly and as such that we are replenishing things as we know that faith leaks. We need to ensure like the disciples did that we stay filled with the Holy Spirit. Let’s not get drunk on wine but instead, be filled with the Spirit. If we want to thrive we need to ensure we are getting the right quality of food for our mind, body, and spirit. God’s Word is the bread of life and so we need to ensure that we can consume it in order to thrive.
Let’s be looking beyond our circumstances in order that we can see God at work and lean on Him for wisdom and guidance for our steps forward. Let’s choose that we will thrive in 2022 and that we will make sure to bring our families and friends along with us by speaking love, faith, and hope into their lives! Let’s choose to be people who build up rather than tear down. Let’s choose to be people who pour love and life into the world God puts around us so that He can receive the praise, the honor, and the glory. Let’s decide that we want to THRIVE for the glory of God! Let’s grab hold of all God’s Word is teaching us through Exodus so that we won’t and don’t lose hope but instead are able to take what we are given and decide and determine what we need to do for God’s purpose and plan to play out in our lives and allow us to THRIVE!
Today’s Verse of the Day:
‘Seek the Lord while he may be found; call on him while he is near. Let the wicked forsake their ways and the unrighteous their thoughts. Let them turn to the Lord , and he will have mercy on them, and to our God, for he will freely pardon. ‘
So where are you at today? What are you facing in your life? Are you wondering where to turn? Are you wondering what to do? Are you ready to turn to God? Are you ready to thrive for the glory of God? Let’s invite Jesus into our situation and allow Him to lead and guide us! Let’s turn to the Holy Spirit and allow Him to fill us to overflowing so that we can live life to the full.
If you pray today’s prayer with me feel free to let me know so I can pray with you and for you too. (If you don’t feel comfortable leaving a comment then you can always try email or text.
As I get to the midpoint of the workweek and consider what is on my plate, getting to share the good news with people is part of my schedule today. To share the good news with love to let them know how important and valuable they are. To share the good news to provide them with hope for the future. To share the good news believing in faith that God’s plan for us is for good and not for evil, to give us hope and a future. When we consider the fruits of the spirit and getting to produce faith, hope, and love, which are the three fruits that will last forever, getting to pass them along to our spouses, our kids, and our world is so important. The greatest one to make sure we share and give is love! So today, let’s choose to thrive by sharing love with the people God brings across our path. Today, let’s choose to thrive by sharing hope with the people God brings across our path. Today, let’s choose to thrive because of our faith and persevering for we know that no matter how good or bad things get, in the midst of it all when we let perseverance finish its work we can be complete and lacking nothing. So today, let’s consider it pure joy, no matter what comes our way. Let’s have a Happy Today because this is the day that the Lord has made!
Today’s Verse of the Day:
‘Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. ‘
So have you turned back to God? Are you being challenged? Are you struggling and wondering how to struggle well? Are you facing trials and wondering how to consider them pure joy? Are you facing troubles and wondering how to take heart? Then today, invite Jesus into your situation and allow Him to work in and through you.
Yesterday was interesting as it began filled with tension and stress which started to trigger fear. It caused me to pause longer and lean on God harder. The day closed better than it started which was good as I went from work to a birthday party. I got to spend time picking up pizza and riding along with my wife which helped. I got to speak to an incredible friend and leader too. It is interesting how in our conversation words like karma, reap what you sow, and this morning it came to me, to overcome fear with faith requires perfect love! Why do we have faith? Because Jesus loved us so much He gave His all and gave us the scriptures to help us remember and be encouraged. No need to fear trouble because Jesus overcame the world. No need to fear trials because they should be considered pure joy as they are a tool to allow perseverance to complete its work in making us complete and lacking nothing. Let’s receive the love of Jesus into our hearts, that perfect love that is so large that it will overwhelm and overcome fear.
Let’s grab hold of 1 John 4:18 that says:
‘There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. ‘
So we need to grab hold of what this scripture is saying by expanding on it:
‘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. This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us. This is how we know that we live in him and he in us: He has given us of his Spirit. And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world. If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in them and they in God. And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them. This is how love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment: In this world we are like Jesus. There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. We love because he first loved us. Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen. And he has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister.’
So no matter what it is that is trying to trigger or cause fear, turn to Jesus! No matter what is trying to create worry or anxiety, turn to Jesus! Don’t try to go it alone! Don’t allow yourself to get isolated and tricked into believing things that you wouldn’t if you had been around your fellow believer friends. Whatever it is, cast it upon God because God cares for you!
Today’s verse of the day:
‘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 and sisters. ‘
So are you ready to step into the new world of love? Are you ready to overwhelm fear with love? Are you ready to be filled with so much love that it casts out all fear? Are you ready to refill so that you are topped up and keep topping up throughout the day so that there won’t be any room for fear? Are you ready to start thriving? Let’s invite Jesus in!
Would you have to have seen it to believe it? Are there things you have never seen and yet still believe? What is it that makes you believe without having seen it? Was it a credible witness? Was it the volume of evidence? Was it the source of the information?
Would you believe something without seeing it first? What made it so? What caused you to believe without needing to see it? Was it the source? Was it the evidence? Was it the witness?
Do you find it easier to believe after seeing it? Have you ever had a hard time believing what you were seeing? Ever seen magic tricks? Ever seen illusions? Ever seen science experiments? Ever seen trick photography? Ever seen edited videos? How do you know what you can believe? How do you know you can trust what you have seen? Are there things easier to believe without seeing?
Do you believe in the wind even though you can’t see it? Do you believe in gravity even though you can’t see it? Do you believe in love even though you can’t see it? Do you believe in hate even though you can’t see it? Do you believe in hot and cold even though you can’t see it? Why?
Are there things you haven’t seen and yet believe are or will be possible? Are there things you haven’t seen and yet believe will happen? Are there things you haven’t seen and yet believe have already happened somewhere? Do you have faith in God? Do you believe there is a devil? Do you believe in life after death? Do you believe there is a heaven and hell? Do you believe in Jesus? Do you believe He is coming back? Do you believe natural disasters exist? Do you believe that wars exist? What do you believe? Faith is the antidote of fear!
So as we head into the Christmas season, what is it that you believe?
Let’s get more details and context for this statement by expanding upon this verse and using the Amplified version.
‘For we know that if the earthly tent [our physical body] which is our house is torn down [through death], we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. For indeed in this house we groan, longing to be clothed with our [immortal, eternal] celestial dwelling, so that by putting it on we will not be found naked. For while we are in this tent, we groan, being burdened [often weighed down, oppressed], not that we want to be unclothed [separated by death from the body], but to be clothed, so that what is mortal [the body] will be swallowed up by life [after the resurrection]. Now He who has made us and prepared us for this very purpose is God, who gave us the [Holy] Spirit as a pledge [a guarantee, a down payment on the fulfillment of His promise]. So then, being always filled with good courage and confident hope, and knowing that while we are at home in the body we are absent from the Lord— for we walk by faith, not by sight [living our lives in a manner consistent with our confident belief in God’s promises]— we are [as I was saying] of good courage and confident hope, and prefer rather to be absent from the body and to be at home with the Lord. Therefore, whether we are at home [on earth] or away from home [and with Him], it is our [constant] ambition to be pleasing to Him. For we [believers will be called to account and] must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may be repaid for what has been done in the body, whether good or bad [that is, each will be held responsible for his actions, purposes, goals, motives—the use or misuse of his time, opportunities and abilities]. Therefore, since we know the fear of the Lord [and understand the importance of obedience and worship], we persuade people [to be reconciled to Him]. But we are plainly known to God [He knows everything about us]; and I hope that we are plainly known also in your consciences [your God-given discernment]. We are not commending ourselves to you again, but are giving you an occasion to be [rightfully] proud of us, so that you will have an answer for those who take pride in [outward] appearances [the virtues they pretend to have] rather than what is [actually] in heart. If we are out of our mind [just unstable fanatics as some critics say], it is for God; if we are in our right mind, it is for your benefit. For the love of Christ controls and compels us, because we have concluded this, that One died for all, therefore all died; and He died for all, so that all those who live would no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died and was raised for their sake. So from now on we regard no one from a human point of view [according to worldly standards and values]. Though we have known Christ from a human point of view, now we no longer know Him in this way . Therefore if anyone is in Christ [that is, grafted in, joined to Him by faith in Him as Savior], he is a new creature [reborn and renewed by the Holy Spirit]; the old things [the previous moral and spiritual condition] have passed away. Behold, new things have come [because spiritual awakening brings a new life]. But all these things are from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ [making us acceptable to Him] and gave us the ministry of reconciliation [so that by our example we might bring others to Him], that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not counting people’s sins against them [but canceling them]. And He has committed to us the message of reconciliation [that is, restoration to favor with God]. So we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making His appeal through us; we [as Christ’s representatives] plead with you on behalf of Christ to be reconciled to God. He made Christ who knew no sin to [judicially] be sin on our behalf, so that in Him we would become the righteousness of God [that is, we would be made acceptable to Him and placed in a right relationship with Him by His gracious lovingkindness].’
Do you believe that our earthly bodies will be destroyed and we will receive new heavenly bodies that are strong, healthy and beautiful?
‘For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands. Meanwhile we groan, longing to be clothed instead with our heavenly dwelling, because when we are clothed, we will not be found naked. For while we are in this tent, we groan and are burdened, because we do not wish to be unclothed but to be clothed instead with our heavenly dwelling, so that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life. Now the one who has fashioned us for this very purpose is God, who has given us the Spirit as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come. Therefore we are always confident and know that as long as we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord. For we live by faith, not by sight. We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord. ‘ 2 Corinthians 5:1-8
Are you sensitive to the prompting of the Holy Spirit?
Are you building your relationship with God and drawing closer to God?
Are you giving more and more attention to what the Holy Spirit leads and guides you to do?
Are you listening to the still quiet voice, the whisper of the Holy Spirit or does it require a big booming voice to get your attention and obedience?
Are you moving forward by the nudges of the Holy Spirit as He tries to lead and guide you?
Are you noticing how your faith is growing to enable you to move out of obedience to God’s will and plan and purpose?
Have you received your downpayment for the future and guarantee from God of the Holy Spirit?
Are you being limited by living a life that is directed by your 5 natural senses?
Are you living your life limited by the natural senses and keeping yourself from being able to experience the supernatural world that God has for you by not being sensitive and responding the the whispers and nudges of the Holy Spirit?
Are you living by what you can’t see, feel, or hear?
Are you living by faith?
Are you living in the spiritual world rather than the natural by living by faith rather than by sight?
Are you living in the spiritual world rather than the natural by living by faith rather than by feelings?
Are you living a life focused on God’s promises rather than the promises of this world?
Are you living a life focused on God’s promises rather than the illusions of this world?
Are you ready to start paying more attention to the things of God, the ways of God, and the Spirit of God?
Are you ready to start growing more spiritually mature by paying more attention to the things of God, the ways of God, and the Spirit of God?
Are you ready to start growing more spiritually mature by trusting God and His Word and the prompting and nudges of His Spirit?
Will you take God at His Word or are you like Thomas who needed to see it to believe it?
‘Now Thomas (also known as Didymus ), one of the Twelve, was not with the disciples when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord!” But he said to them, “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.” ‘ John 20:24-25
How would or will you feel when Jesus shows up in your life face to face and because of your needing to see to believe confronts you like He did to Thomas?
‘A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.” Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!” Then Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” ‘ John 20:26-29
Will you believe without needing to see?
Will you have faith in Jesus?
Is your faith growing or has grown to the point where you are starting to see the unseen movement of the Holy Spirit and the spiritual realm?
Is your faith growing or has it grown to the point where you are starting to hear the whispers of the Holy Spirit?
Is your faith growing or has it grown to the point where you are starting to feel the nudges of the Holy Spirit?
Has the spiritual realm become real to you yet?
Has the spiritual realm become as real as what you can touch, tast, smell, hear, and see?
DISCUSSION TOPICS FROM TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL:
How much are you like Thomas, needing to see to believe?
What are some of the most important of God’s promises to you?
As we continue through December we have finished the readings of the Tanakh and I thank Sefaria for their resources in helping me to see the Old Testament in a new way and my friend Lionel for having shared this tool with me. As we kicked off December the idea my wife brought up came to mind about going through the book of Luke (who was a doctor) which happens to have 24 chapters so that we can read one a day and complete it in time for Christmas. To get as many details from this I am going to use the Amplified version to try and grasp all the details Luke gives us to consider and learn.
So today we will read Luke 20:
‘On one of the days, as Jesus was instructing the people in the temple [area] and preaching the good news (gospel), the chief priests and the scribes along with the elders confronted Him, and said to Him, “Tell us by what kind of authority You are doing these things? Or who is the one who gave You this authority?” Jesus replied, “I will also ask you a question. You tell Me: The baptism of John [the Baptist]— was it from heaven [that is, ordained by God] or from men?” They discussed and debated it among themselves, saying, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ He will say, ‘Why did you not believe him?’ But if we say, ‘From men,’ all the people will stone us to death, for they are firmly convinced that John was a prophet.” So they replied that they did not know from where it came. Then Jesus said to them, “Nor am I telling you by what [kind of] authority I do these things.”
Then He began to tell the people this parable: “A man planted a vineyard and leased it to tenant farmers, and went on a journey for a long time [to another country]. At harvest time he sent a servant [as his representative] to the tenants, so that they would give him his share of the fruit of the vineyard; but the tenants beat the servant and sent him away empty-handed. So he again sent another servant; they also beat him and dishonored and treated him disgracefully and sent him away empty-handed. And he sent yet a third; and this one too they wounded and threw out [of the vineyard]. Then the owner of the vineyard said, ‘What shall I do? I will send my beloved son; perhaps they will have respect for him.’ But when the tenants saw him, they discussed it among themselves, saying, ‘This [man] is the heir; let us kill him so that the inheritance will be ours.’ So they threw the son out of the vineyard and killed him. What, then, will the owner of the vineyard do to them? He will come and put these tenants to death and will give the vineyard to others.” When the chief priests, the scribes, and the elders heard this, they said, “May it never be!” But Jesus looked at them and said, “What then is [the meaning of] this that is written: ‘The [very] Stone which the builders rejected, this became the chief Cornerstone’? Everyone who falls on that stone will be broken and shattered in pieces; and on whomever it falls, it will crush him.”
The scribes and the chief priests tried to [find a way to] arrest Him at that very hour, but they were afraid of the people; because they understood that He spoke this parable against them. So they watched [for a chance to trap] Him. They sent spies who pretended to be upright and sincere, in order that they might catch Him in some statement [that they could distort and use against Him], so that they could turn Him over to the control and authority of [Pilate] the governor. They asked Him, “Teacher, we know that You speak and teach correctly, and that You show no partiality to anyone, but teach the way of God truthfully. Is it lawful [according to Jewish law and tradition] for us to pay taxes (tribute money) to Caesar or not?” But He saw through their trickery and said to them, “Show Me a [Roman] denarius. Whose image and inscription does the coin have?” They answered, “[the Emperor Tiberius] Caesar’s.” He said to them, “Then pay to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” They were not able to seize on anything He said in the presence of the people; and being unnerved at His reply, they were silent.
Now some of the Sadducees (who say that there is no resurrection) came to Him and they questioned Him, saying, “Teacher, Moses wrote for us [a law that] if a man’s brother dies , leaving a wife and no children , his brother should marry the wife and raise children for his brother . Now there were seven brothers; and the first took a wife and died childless. And the second, and the third married her, and in the same way all seven died, leaving no children. Finally the woman also died. So in the [life after] resurrection, whose wife does she become? For all seven had married her.” Jesus said to them, “The sons of this [world and present] age marry and [the women] are given in marriage; but those who are considered worthy to gain that [other world and that future] age and the resurrection from the dead, neither marry nor are given in marriage; and they cannot die again, because they are [immortal] like the angels (equal to, angel-like). And they are children of God, being participants in the resurrection. But [as for the fact] that the dead are raised [from death], even Moses showed, in the passage about the burning bush, when he calls the Lord the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. Now He is not the God of the dead, but of the living [so these forefathers will be among the resurrected]; for all live [in a definite relationship] to Him.” Some of the scribes replied, “Teacher, you have spoken well [so that there is no room for blame].” And they did not dare to question Him further about anything [because of the wisdom He displayed in His answers]. Then He said to them, “How is it that people say that the Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed) is David’s son? For David himself says in the book of Psalms, ‘The Lord (the Father) said to my Lord (the Son, the Messiah), “Sit at My right hand, Until I make Your enemies a footstool for Your feet.” ’ So David calls Him (the Son) ‘Lord,’ and how then is He David’s son?” And with all the people listening, He said to His disciples, “Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes [displaying their prominence], and love respectful greetings in the [crowded] market places, and chief seats in the synagogues and places of honor at banquets. These [men] who confiscate and devour widows’ houses, and for a pretense [to appear devout] offer long prayers. These [men] will receive the greater [sentence of] condemnation.”’
So where are you today? What do you believe? Do you have faith? Are you ready to believe without feeling it? Are you ready to believe without seeing it? Are you ready to believe without hearing it? Are you ready to take God’s Word for what it’s worth? Are you ready to invite God into your heart? Are you ready to invite Jesus into your life? Let’s pray:
Heavenly Father I come to you in prayer asking for the forgiveness of my Sins. I confess with my mouth and believe with my heart that Jesus is your Son, And that he died on the Cross at Calvary that I might be forgiven. and have Eternal Life in the Kingdom of Heaven. Father, I believe that Jesus rose from the dead and I ask you right now to come in to my life and be my personal Lord and Savior. I repent of my Sins and will Worship you all the day’s of my Life! Because your word is truth, I confess with my mouth that I am Born Again and Cleansed by the Blood of Jesus! In Jesus Name, Amen
Did you pray with me? Would you be willing to leave me a comment so that I can pray with and for you about such an incredible decision? Or if you don’t feel comfortable leaving a comment on my blog, why not email or text me instead?
Day 5 of December and it is hard to believe how fast 2021 has gone. It has had a bit more normalcy than 2020 did but still some challenges when it comes to engaging and connecting with others. So with the working from home, the physical distancing, the mandates that some politicians somehow think are needed even if they seem to interfere with our privacy and ability to support our local businesses, it is still challenging to be able to connect and engage with others in a social atmosphere in a lot of cases. So how are you caring for those around you? So how are you caring for those in need or with needs? So how are you caring for those who don’t have anyone else? So how are you caring for those who can’t go out? So how are you caring for those who can’t or won’t be able to meet the demands of the political mandates? So how are you caring for those who can’t care for themselves? So how are you caring for those who would normally be caring for the people who are sick, who are in need, who are at risk but have been removed from those positions by mandates made up by people?
Are you ready to share? Are you ready to do your part to make sure others know you care? Are you ready to let your family know you care by sharing with them? Are you ready to let your friends and neighbors know you care by sharing with them? Are you ready to let your coworkers know you care by sharing with them? Are you ready to let the service workers know how much you care by sharing with them? Are you ready to stand up for what is right and just so that those who can’t stand up for themselves know how much you care by sharing with them? Are you ready to let them know how much you care by sharing?
Sharing is caring because it helps you be more empathetic by caring for others unconditionally. Sharing is caring because it helps you build social skills that are needed to be well adjusted. Sharing is caring because it develops a selfless attitude in us by showing how much others are appreciated. Sharing is caring because it helps you take responsibility for caring for others in society. Sharing is caring because it brings hope and positivity into the lives of others. Sharing is caring because it teaches you to sacrifice for a greater good and purpose. Sharing is caring because it helps you live life with humility to the needs of others. Sharing is caring because it is an act of kindness where you are able to offer something that belongs to you to someone else because you believe they need it and that you have enough to pass it around. Sharing is caring because it has the potential to change a life and change the world. Sharing is caring because it demonstrates that you love. Sharing is caring because it demonstrates how you have shaken off selfishness in order to become more selfless.
So as we head into our today, are you ready to share in order to say that you care? Ever considered what you have that you can share with others? What about your faith?
‘Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving; meanwhile praying also for us, that God would open to us a door for the word, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in chains, that I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak.’
Let’s look at this to get more context and details by expanding a bit and using the Amplified version.
‘Masters, [on your part] deal with your slaves justly and fairly, knowing that you also have a Master in heaven. Be persistent and devoted to prayer, being alert and focused in your prayer life with an attitude of thanksgiving. At the same time pray for us, too, that God will open a door [of opportunity] to us for the word, to proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I have been imprisoned; that I may make it clear [and speak boldly and unfold the mystery] in the way I should. Conduct yourself with wisdom in your interactions with outsiders (non-believers), make the most of each opportunity [treating it as something precious]. Let your speech at all times be gracious and pleasant, seasoned with salt, so that you will know how to answer each one [who questions you]. As to all my affairs, Tychicus, who is a much-loved brother and faithful assistant and fellow bond-servant in the Lord, will give you all the information. I have sent him to you for this very purpose, that you may know how we are doing and that he may encourage your hearts; and with him is Onesimus, our faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They will let you know everything about the situation here [in Rome]. Aristarchus, my fellow prisoner, wishes to be remembered to you; as does Mark, the cousin of Barnabas (about whom you received instructions; if he comes to you, welcome him); and from Jesus, who is called Justus. These are the only fellow workers for the kingdom of God who are from the circumcision (Jewish Christians), and they have proved to be an encouragement and a comfort to me. Epaphras, who is one of you and a bond-servant of Christ Jesus, sends you greetings. [He is] always striving for you in his prayers, praying with genuine concern, [pleading] that you may [as people of character and courage] stand firm, [spiritually mature] and fully assured in all the will of God. For I testify for him that he has worked strenuously for you and for the believers in Laodicea and those in Hierapolis. Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas greet you. Give my greetings to the brothers and sisters at Laodicea, and to Nympha and the church that meets in her house. When this letter has been read among you, see that it is read in the church of the Laodiceans; and also that you in turn read my letter [that is coming to you] from Laodicea. And say to Archippus, “See to it that you fulfill [carefully the duties of] the ministry which you have received in the Lord.” I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand. Remember my chains. May grace (God’s unmerited favor and blessing) be with you.’
So will you let God lead you to share your faith with others?
Will you allow God to work in and through you to share His love and your hope with others?
Will you allow God to open doors for you to share your faith with others?
Will you allow God to motivate your words and testimony of His impact on your life?
Will you share Jesus with the world through the way you choose to live your life?
Will you share how life is a partnership with God?
Will you allow God to do the heavy lifting and when others come ready that you will be ready to share with them?
Are you sensitive to the prompting of the Holy Spirit?
Will you respond and share when prompted by the Holy Spirit?
Will you go where the Holy Spirit leads you?
Will you no go where the Holy Spirit blocks or stops you?
We see how Paul had such an experience:
‘Now they passed through the territory of Phrygia and Galatia, after being forbidden by the Holy Spirit to speak the word in [the west coast province of] Asia [Minor]; and after they came to Mysia, they tried to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus did not permit them; so passing by Mysia, they went down to Troas. Then a vision appeared to Paul in the night: a man from [the Roman province of] Macedonia was standing and pleading with him, saying, “Come over to Macedonia and help us!” And when he had seen the vision, we (including Luke) tried to go on into Macedonia at once, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them. ‘ Acts 16:6-10
Trying to bulldoze others with your faith won’t work.
We need God to prepare the heart and have the other person ready to receive the good news.
Side Note: I remember many years back when our admin came up to me and said I wasn’t like that last Christian who was on the team who went around threatening people that if they didn’t accept Jesus they were going to hell. I told her that wasn’t me and not how I operated. I try to live a life where people are able to see Jesus in and through the way I choose to live my life. I try to live my life in a way where if people are seeking or curious they can feel open and free to ask me. I try to live my life ready to share when prompted by the Holy Spirit.
So today let’s be prayed up so that we are filled up and ready to act based on the Spirit’s leading and direction.
So today let’s be sensitive to the prompting of the Holy Spirit in order to do and accomplish what He asks of us.
So today let’s be obedient to the prompting of the Spirit.
Remember Paul’s original encounter with Jesus on the road to Demascus?
It was a life changing experience that kept him going for the rest of his life, spreading the truth and the good news of Jesus.
Let’s be ready like Paul to share the love and forgiveness of God as they are our live and breath imparted by Jesus.
Let’s be ready to tell everyone who is ready and willing about Jesus!
Let’s be ready to tell everyone who is ready and willing to hear about Jesus, no matter the consequences!
Let’s be ready to share our faith with the world around us rather than thinking or believing that we can leave that to the professionals.
God has put us right here and right now for the people who we have around us. We might be the only experience of Jesus and the church they may ever experience or see.
Be it inviting people to come to church. Be it asking God to help you with open doors to speak love and life through your faith in to the lives of friends and family.
Be ready for when the timing is right and the Spirit prompts you, tell them about the hope that is within you and how Jesus has transformed you life.
We don’t have to be professional speakers or preachers to be able to communicate authentically the love of God and how He has worked in and through your life.
We don’t have to be biblical scholars who can answer all the questions either.
People are looking for authentic faith.
People are looking for authentic love.
People are looking for authentic people.
Will that be you the one who can show that to them?
DISCUSSION TOPICS FROM TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL:
Take a few minutes to ask God for an open door to share your faith with particular people who are on your heart.
Write an outline of what you will tell them when God opens the door. Write about what your life was like before you trusted Christ, the even when you trust Him, and the difference He has made in your life.
As we move into December we have finished the readings of the Tanakh and I thank Sefaria for their resources in helping me to see the Old Testament in a new way and my friend Lionel for having shared this tool with me. As we kick off December the idea my wife brought up came to mind about going through the book of Luke (who was a doctor) which happens to have 24 chapters which mean we can read one a day and complete it in time for Christmas. To get as many details from this I am going to use the Amplified version to try and grasp all the details Luke gives us to consider and learn.
So today we will read Luke 5:
‘Now it happened that while Jesus was standing by the Lake of Gennesaret (Sea of Galilee), with the people crowding all around Him and listening to the word of God; that He saw two boats lying at the edge of the lake, but the fishermen had gotten out of them and were washing their nets. He got into one of the boats, which was Simon’s, and asked him to put out a little distance from the shore. And He sat down and began teaching the crowds from the boat. When He had finished speaking, He said to Simon [Peter], “Put out into the deep water and lower your nets for a catch [of fish].” Simon replied, “Master, we worked hard all night [to the point of exhaustion] and caught nothing [in our nets], but at Your word I will [do as you say and] lower the nets [again].” When they had done this, they caught a great number of fish, and their nets were [at the point of] breaking; so they signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both of the boats [with fish], so that they began to sink. But when Simon Peter saw this, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Go away from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord!” For he and all his companions were completely astounded at the catch of fish which they had taken; and so were James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon [Peter]. Jesus said to Simon, “Have no fear; from now on you will be catching men!” After they had brought their boats to land, they left everything and followed Him [becoming His disciples, believing and trusting in Him and following His example].
While Jesus was in one of the cities, there came a man covered with [an advanced case of] leprosy; and when he saw Jesus, he fell on his face and begged Him, saying, “Lord, if You are willing, You can make me clean and well.” And Jesus reached out His hand and touched him, saying, “I am willing; be cleansed.” And immediately the leprosy left him. Jesus ordered him to tell no one [that he might happen to meet], “But go and show yourself to the priest, and make an offering for your purification, just as Moses commanded, as a testimony (witness) to them [that this is a work of Messiah].” But the news about Him was spreading farther, and large crowds kept gathering to hear Him and to be healed of their illnesses. But Jesus Himself would often slip away to the wilderness and pray [in seclusion]. One day as He was teaching, there were Pharisees and teachers of the Law sitting there who had come from every village of Galilee and Judea and from Jerusalem. And the power of the Lord was present with Him to heal. Some men came carrying on a stretcher a man who was paralyzed, and they tried to bring him in and lay him down in front of Jesus. But finding no way to bring him in because of the crowd, they went up on the roof [and removed some tiles to make an opening] and lowered him through the tiles with his stretcher, into the middle of the crowd, in front of Jesus. When Jesus saw their [active] faith [springing from confidence in Him], He said, “Man, your sins are forgiven.” The scribes and the Pharisees began to consider and question [the implications of what He had said], saying, “Who is this man who speaks blasphemies [by claiming the rights and prerogatives of God]? Who can forgive sins [that is, remove guilt, nullify sin’s penalty, and assign righteousness] except God alone?” But Jesus, knowing their [hostile] thoughts, answered them, “Why are you questioning [these things] in your hearts? Which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven you,’ or to say, ‘Get up and walk’? But, in order that you may know that the Son of Man (the Messiah) has authority and power on earth to forgive sins” —He said to the paralyzed man, “I say to you, get up, pick up your stretcher and go home.” He immediately stood up before them, picked up his stretcher, and went home glorifying and praising God. They were all astonished, and they began glorifying God; and they were filled with [reverential] fear and kept saying, “We have seen wonderful and incredible things today!”
After this Jesus went out and noticed a tax collector named Levi (Matthew) sitting at the tax booth; and He said to him, “Follow Me [as My disciple, accepting Me as your Master and Teacher and walking the same path of life that I walk].” And he left everything behind and got up and began to follow Jesus [as His disciple]. Levi (Matthew) gave a great banquet for Him at his house; and there was a large crowd of tax collectors and others who were reclining at the table with them. The Pharisees and their scribes [seeing those with whom He was associating] began murmuring in discontent to His disciples, asking, “Why are you eating and drinking with the tax collectors and sinners [including non-observant Jews]?” And Jesus replied to them, “It is not those who are healthy who need a physician, but [only] those who are sick. I did not come to call the [self-proclaimed] righteous [who see no need to repent], but sinners to repentance [to change their old way of thinking, to turn from sin and to seek God and His righteousness].” Then they said to Him, “The disciples of John [the Baptist] often practice fasting and offer prayers [of special petition], and so do the disciples of the Pharisees; but Yours eat and drink.” Jesus said to them, “Can you make the wedding guests of the bridegroom fast while he is with them? But days [for mourning] will come when the bridegroom is [forcefully] taken away from them. They will fast in those days.” He also told them a parable: “No one tears a piece of cloth from a new garment and puts it on an old one; otherwise he will both tear the new, and the piece from the new will not match the old. And no one puts new wine into old wineskins; otherwise the new [fermenting] wine will [expand and] burst the skins and it will be spilled out, and the skins will be ruined. But new wine must be put into fresh wineskins. And no one, after drinking old wine, wishes for new; for he says, ‘The old is fine.’ ”‘
So where are you at today? Are you someone who is needing others to share their faith with you? Are you someone who needs to be sharing their faith with others? Are you ready to share to show that you care? Are you ready to care enough to share? God called me many years ago to start this blog and so I obeyed and many lives have been touched through my sharing of my faith because I cared for those God loves. So are you ready to receive this love of God through Jesus? Are you ready to start your own journey in a relationship with Jesus? Let’s pray:
Heavenly Father I come to you in prayer asking for the forgiveness of my Sins. I confess with my mouth and believe with my heart that Jesus is your Son, And that he died on the Cross at Calvary that I might be forgiven. and have Eternal Life in the Kingdom of Heaven. Father, I believe that Jesus rose from the dead and I ask you right now to come in to my life and be my personal Lord and Savior. I repent of my Sins and will Worship you all the day’s of my Life! Because your word is truth, I confess with my mouth that I am Born Again and Cleansed by the Blood of Jesus! In Jesus Name, Amen
Did you pray with me? Would you be willing to leave me a comment so that I can pray with and for you about such an incredible decision? Or if you don’t feel comfortable leaving a comment on my blog, why not email or text me instead?
‘If I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love [for others growing out of God’s love for me], then I have become only a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal [just an annoying distraction]. And if I have the gift of prophecy [and speak a new message from God to the people], and understand all mysteries, and [possess] all knowledge; and if I have all [sufficient] faith so that I can remove mountains, but do not have love [reaching out to others], I am nothing. If I give all my possessions to feed the poor, and if I surrender my body to be burned, but do not have love, it does me no good at all. Love endures with patience and serenity, love is kind and thoughtful, and is not jealous or envious; love does not brag and is not proud or arrogant. It is not rude; it is not self-seeking, it is not provoked [nor overly sensitive and easily angered]; it does not take into account a wrong endured. It does not rejoice at injustice, but rejoices with the truth [when right and truth prevail]. Love bears all things [regardless of what comes], believes all things [looking for the best in each one], hopes all things [remaining steadfast during difficult times], endures all things [without weakening]. Love never fails [it never fades nor ends]. But as for prophecies, they will pass away; as for tongues, they will cease; as for the gift of special knowledge, it will pass away. For we know in part, and we prophesy in part [for our knowledge is fragmentary and incomplete]. But when that which is complete and perfect comes, that which is incomplete and partial will pass away. When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child; when I became a man, I did away with childish things. For now [in this time of imperfection] we see in a mirror dimly [a blurred reflection, a riddle, an enigma], but then [when the time of perfection comes we will see reality] face to face. Now I know in part [just in fragments], but then I will know fully, just as I have been fully known [by God]. And now there remain: faith [abiding trust in God and His promises], hope [confident expectation of eternal salvation], love [unselfish love for others growing out of God’s love for me], these three [the choicest graces]; but the greatest of these is love.’
So today, let us choose to focus on making an impact on and in the world we live in by focusing on what is going to last forever. Let’s get and be filled up with faith, hope and love to the point of overflowing! Let’s then overflow into the people God brings to mind, across our paths, and into our lives today so that we can point them to an eternity where they will get to live with God in Heaven and not in the abyss of hell apart from God.
‘Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time. Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.’
Let’s dig a bit more into this with the surrounding context and using the Amplified version.
‘Masters, [on your part] deal with your slaves justly and fairly, knowing that you also have a Master in heaven. Be persistent and devoted to prayer, being alert and focused in your prayer life with an attitude of thanksgiving. At the same time pray for us, too, that God will open a door [of opportunity] to us for the word, to proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I have been imprisoned; that I may make it clear [and speak boldly and unfold the mystery] in the way I should. Conduct yourself with wisdom in your interactions with outsiders (non-believers), make the most of each opportunity [treating it as something precious]. Let your speech at all times be gracious and pleasant, seasoned with salt, so that you will know how to answer each one [who questions you]. As to all my affairs, Tychicus, who is a much-loved brother and faithful assistant and fellow bond-servant in the Lord, will give you all the information. I have sent him to you for this very purpose, that you may know how we are doing and that he may encourage your hearts; and with him is Onesimus, our faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They will let you know everything about the situation here [in Rome]. Aristarchus, my fellow prisoner, wishes to be remembered to you; as does Mark, the cousin of Barnabas (about whom you received instructions; if he comes to you, welcome him); and from Jesus, who is called Justus. These are the only fellow workers for the kingdom of God who are from the circumcision (Jewish Christians), and they have proved to be an encouragement and a comfort to me. Epaphras, who is one of you and a bond-servant of Christ Jesus, sends you greetings. [He is] always striving for you in his prayers, praying with genuine concern, [pleading] that you may [as people of character and courage] stand firm, [spiritually mature] and fully assured in all the will of God. For I testify for him that he has worked strenuously for you and for the believers in Laodicea and those in Hierapolis. Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas greet you. Give my greetings to the brothers and sisters at Laodicea, and to Nympha and the church that meets in her house. When this letter has been read among you, see that it is read in the church of the Laodiceans; and also that you in turn read my letter [that is coming to you] from Laodicea. And say to Archippus, “See to it that you fulfill [carefully the duties of] the ministry which you have received in the Lord.” I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand. Remember my chains. May grace (God’s unmerited favor and blessing) be with you.’
Do you realize your environment is an opportunity to shine for God?
Do you realize your environment is an opportunity to be salty for God?
Do you realize the unbelievers around you and how they need the salt and light of Jesus in their lives too?
Do you realize or look for opportunity to be salt and light into their lives?
Don’t be too busy doing your own thing to miss out on being able to do God’s things in the lives of the people God brings across your path.
Don’t be too self absorbed in your own stresses that you miss the open door opportunities to speak hope and love in faith to the world around you.
Don’t consider it a bother when they come your way, consider it an opportunity to be salt and light in their lives.
Keep your eyes open for when they come by so that you can make an effort to be salt and light into their lives.
Someone come to mind in this life where so much is being done virtually? Why not reach out and let them know and check in to make sure they are doing ok and if there is anything you can do to help them.
Do you realize your mission to reach as many people as possible like Paul did?
Do you realize how many people in your mist are lost and need someone to shine the light and hope of Jesus into their situations?
Do you realize how many people in your mist are lost and need you to spice things up for them with salt of Jesus into their lives?
Will you speak to people others are ignoring?
Will you go to places others won’t go?
Consider every interaction an opportunity!
Consider every interaction as an open door to represent Jesus to them!
Lead with God’s grace, giving it to them freely.
Let God’s love overflow out of your heart and be how your words speak to them.
We need to be both reaching out in love as well as seasoning our words with the His salt.
Salt that goes bad has no purpose and gets thrown out on the roads.
So let’s instead use salt with the purposes it has in life!
salt adds taste
salt preserves
So let’s be salty so as to add flavor to people’s lives!
So let’s be salty so that we are the most creative, optimistic, compassionate, sensitive, and alive people to the world around us!
Let’s be ready to give a reason for the hope that is within us too!
There will come a time when someone will ask you to explain yourself, why are you like that? what is allowing you to be that way? So be ready to give people the reason for that spunk in your step and share the truth, the love, the hope of Jesus in your life!
Let’s be the people God created us to be in the place God has positioned us to be.
Let’s reach out to those God has allowed us to have relationship with so that they can encounter Jesus like we did.
Let’s help them realize it isn’t about rituals and routines but about an intimate relationship with Jesus.
Let’s be salty in this world we live!
Let’s be salty so that we can touch the life of the one(s) that need it.
DISCUSSION TOPICS FROM TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL:
At this point in your life, how salty are you? Explain your answer.
Who are some unbelievers God has put in your life? How can you be salty with them?
So where are you today? Are you one who knows Jesus and is living for Him and will pick up the call to be salty and make a difference in the world around you? Are you one who knows Jesus and is living in a relationship with Him to fill you to overflowing with faith, hope, and love in order to be able to pour it out over all those God brings into your life? Are you someone looking for answers, seeking hope, or looking for love? Are you someone whose final destination is unknown to you? Are you ready to decide and choose to spend eternity with God in Heaven? Will today be your day? Let’s pray:
Heavenly Father I come to you in prayer asking for the forgiveness of my Sins. I confess with my mouth and believe with my heart that Jesus is your Son, And that he died on the Cross at Calvary that I might be forgiven. and have Eternal Life in the Kingdom of Heaven. Father, I believe that Jesus rose from the dead and I ask you right now to come in to my life and be my personal Lord and Savior. I repent of my Sins and will Worship you all the day’s of my Life! Because your word is truth, I confess with my mouth that I am Born Again and Cleansed by the Blood of Jesus! In Jesus Name, Amen
Did you pray with me? Would you be willing to leave me a comment so that I can pray with and for you about such an incredible decision? Or if you don’t feel comfortable leaving a comment on my blog, why not email or text me instead?
Are you ready to move forward step by step? Are you ready to be taking ground little by little? Are you ready to press forward and press in one step at a time to get there?
What if you knew that God would be there with every little step you took? Would that encourage you to take that first step and not stop till you get there? Ever heard the lyrics to the song Little by Little? Ever tried to take too big of a step and found it hard and gave up? Ever tried to take too big of a step and then ended up going backward? Ever pressed in and pressed on but took a smaller step the next time? The lyrics to Little by Little that thought could be helpful were the following:
So let’s take it one step at a time. Let’s not try to overreach our boundaries but rather let’s take it one step at a time and make sure we are heading in the right direction and don’t end up way off course! Let’s do it in a way that will not only be productive and helpful but also keep us encouraged and motivated. Let’s decide to make a difference in this world one step at a time, one person at a time, one act of kindness at a time for the glory of God!
‘But Jesus turned around, and when He saw her He said, “Be of good cheer, daughter; your faith has made you well.” And the woman was made well from that hour.’
Let’s make sure before we move forward that we have the context and better understanding of this statement and the circumstances around it by grabbing the context from the verses around it and by using the Amplified version.
‘While He was saying these things to them, a ruler (synagogue official) entered [the house] and kneeled down and worshiped Him, saying, “My daughter has just now died; but come and lay Your hand on her, and she will live.” Jesus got up and began to accompany the ruler, with His disciples. Then a woman who had suffered from a hemorrhage for twelve years came up behind Him and touched the [tassel] fringe of His outer robe; for she had been saying to herself, “If I only touch His outer robe, I will be healed.” But Jesus turning and seeing her said, “Take courage, daughter; your [personal trust and confident] faith [in Me] has made you well.” And at once the woman was [completely] healed. When Jesus came to the ruler’s house, and saw the flute players [who were professional, hired mourners] and the [grieving] crowd making an uproar, He said, “Go away; for the girl is not dead, but is sleeping.” And they laughed and jeered at Him. But when the crowd had been sent outside, Jesus went in and took her by the hand, and the girl got up. And the news about this spread throughout all that district. ‘
Ever been in a big hurry but someone needed you for something?
Jesus’s group was but the divine enounter on the trip was scheduled for Him to touch a life.
Everyone was trying to get Jesus to the home of Jairus whose daughter was ill and seemed to be dying and so they wanted Him to get there to save her.
Jesus agreed to go with Jairus as we read above.
The disciples figured this would give Jesus some great PR.
They probably figured such a high profile healing would do miracles for movement or cause.
As we see they were surrounded by a huge crowd.
In the midst of the crowd was a lady who had been sick for years.
She believed and had the faith that if she could just touch the hem of Jesus’s robe that she would be healed.
So she reached out and touched it and was instantly healed.
Jesus knew and felt it and wanted to make sure she and everyone to know how much He cares and so stopped to talk with her.
The people who were trying to escort Him quickly to the dying little girl probably started to get nervous by such a delay.
Jesus’s timing was and is perfect and so He finished His conversation with the lady healed of the blood problem.
As He finished and they were ready to go, the little girl had died, but Jesus is the Lord of life and so that wasn’t an obstacle or problem to Him. (Check out the story of Jesus resurrecting Lazarus from the dead in John 11:38-54)
Ever had people try to make a bad situation worse? Did you request they leave?
Just like Jesus got the doubters to leave, we need to remove such people from the situation in order for faithfilled people to rise up.
Jesus was able to enter into the situation and the young girl woke up and got up.
How would you have responded? You are faced with a chronically sick woman and a critically sick little girl who needed immediate attention?
Jesus realize how much that woman had been through, the feeling of rejection, the feeling of abandonment, she needed more than just a physical healing, she needed an encounter with Jesus!
Jesus knew that nothing was out of his power and control and so He knew that He needed to make the time for this older woman and speak life and hope into her life.
Jesus knew that by taking this time to pour into her life that she would be ready and able to have a true relationship with God!
She needed Jesus time now! Jesus can take care of healing and death, so Jesus chose to take care of the urgent and important over the important in the moment and then took care of the important issue too.
Do you realize how important you are to God? You are so important that God wants to spend time with you to start, build, and have a relationship with you!
Just like the lady with the chronical illness, who needed Jesus to talk to her, to connect with her, to impart love and power to her in that moment, Jesus knows we need it too!
God gave priority to the here and now because He knew He was able to take care of the original request and save Jairus’s daughter too.
DISCUSSION TOPICS FROM TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL:
What does this story tell you about God’s priorities in His relationship with you?
Take some time now to respond to God’s love and tell him how you feel about Him.
So where are you today? Are you needing faith to be able to take that next step? Are you ready to take that next step in faith? Are you pursuing God’s instruction and direction? Are you ready to experience what that next step will bring? Are you ready to tell God how you feel about Him? Are you ready to tell God that you want Him to move into your heart and be your Lord and Savior? Let’s pray:
Heavenly Father I come to you in prayer asking for the forgiveness of my Sins. I confess with my mouth and believe with my heart that Jesus is your Son, And that he died on the Cross at Calvary that I might be forgiven. and have Eternal Life in the Kingdom of Heaven. Father, I believe that Jesus rose from the dead and I ask you right now to come in to my life and be my personal Lord and Savior. I repent of my Sins and will Worship you all the day’s of my Life! Because your word is truth, I confess with my mouth that I am Born Again and Cleansed by the Blood of Jesus! In Jesus Name, Amen
Did you pray with me? Would you be willing to leave me a comment so that I can pray with and for you about such an incredible decision? Or if you don’t feel comfortable leaving a comment on my blog, why not email or text me instead?
Are you a people pleaser in an attempt to make or keep friends? Are you a people pleaser at the risk of your own well being? Are you a people pleaser at the risk of getting hurt or mistreated? Are you a people pleaser in an attempt to hide yourself from the people around you? Are you a people pleaser who hides, is dishonest, deceives, and even lies in order to please others? Are you a people pleaser who makes stuff up in an attempt to give others what you think they want or need? Are you a people pleaser who has a very low view of yourself? Are you saying yes to things you should be saying no to because you want to please others? Are you letting high expectations drive you to saying yes when you should say no in hopes of pleasing others? Are you letting resentment cause you to say yes about things that you should be saying no about because you are more focused on trying to please others?
Do you realize the difference? Do you realize where you are in the midst of it all? Wouldn’t you rather be trying to please someone who loves you and wants the best for you? Wouldn’t you rather be living truth and love in order to please someone who loves you? Imagine if all it takes to please God is faith! Imagine if that trust in God is enough to please Him!
I still remember when the aha moment took place and I realized that Christianity isn’t about routines and rituals but it s about having a real relationship with Jesus! It was a turning point that has changed my life ever since. It was a truth I kept trying to reflect on my life to see if or how or where I had missed this fact. It seems that the reality is that it wasn’t told or shared or explained. Are you living out rituals and routines in order to try and please God? Why not start an intimate relationship with Jesus today and see how it transforms your life and pleases God!
‘But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.’
God’s Word tells us that we need faith if we want to please God. We need to believe! We need to seek! We need to live by faith. Let’s look to get additional context for this statement with the Amplified version.
‘Now faith is the assurance (title deed, confirmation) of things hoped for (divinely guaranteed), and the evidence of things not seen [the conviction of their reality—faith comprehends as fact what cannot be experienced by the physical senses]. For by this [kind of] faith the men of old gained [divine] approval. By faith [that is, with an inherent trust and enduring confidence in the power, wisdom and goodness of God] we understand that the worlds (universe, ages) were framed and created [formed, put in order, and equipped for their intended purpose] by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things which are visible. By faith Abel offered to God a more acceptable sacrifice than Cain, through which it was testified of him that he was righteous (upright, in right standing with God), and God testified by accepting his gifts. And though he died, yet through [this act of] faith he still speaks. By faith [that pleased God] Enoch was caught up and taken to heaven so that he would not have a glimpse of death; and he was not found because God had taken him ; for even before he was taken [to heaven], he received the testimony [still on record] that he had walked with God and pleased Him. But without faith it is impossible to [walk with God and] please Him, for whoever comes [near] to God must [necessarily] believe that God exists and that He rewards those who [earnestly and diligently] seek Him. By faith [with confidence in God and His word] Noah, being warned by God about events not yet seen, in reverence prepared an ark for the salvation of his family. By this [act of obedience] he condemned the world and became an heir of the righteousness which comes by faith. By faith Abraham, when he was called [by God], obeyed by going to a place which he was to receive as an inheritance; and he went, not knowing where he was going. By faith he lived as a foreigner in the promised land, as in a strange land, living in tents [as nomads] with Isaac and Jacob, who were fellow heirs of the same promise. For he was [waiting expectantly and confidently] looking forward to the city which has foundations, [an eternal, heavenly city] whose architect and builder is God. By faith even Sarah herself received the ability to conceive [a child], even [when she was long] past the normal age for it, because she considered Him who had given her the promise to be reliable and true [to His word]. So from one man, though he was [physically] as good as dead, were born as many descendants as the stars of heaven in number , and innumerable as the sand on the seashore . All these died in faith [guided and sustained by it], without receiving the [tangible fulfillment of God’s] promises, only having seen (anticipated) them and having welcomed them from a distance, and having acknowledged that they were strangers and exiles on the earth. Now those who say such things make it clear that they are looking for a country of their own. And if they had been thinking of that country from which they departed [as their true home], they would have had [a continuing] opportunity to return. But the truth is that they were longing for a better country, that is, a heavenly one. For that reason God is not ashamed [of them or] to be called their God [even to be surnamed their God—the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob]; for He has prepared a city for them. By faith Abraham, when he was tested [that is, as the testing of his faith was still in progress], offered up Isaac, and he who had received the promises [of God] was ready to sacrifice his only son [of promise]; to whom it was said, “Through Isaac your descendants shall be called .” For he considered [it reasonable to believe] that God was able to raise Isaac even from among the dead. [Indeed, in the sense that he was prepared to sacrifice Isaac in obedience to God] Abraham did receive him back [from the dead] figuratively speaking. By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau [believing what God revealed to him], even regarding things to come. By faith Jacob, as he was dying, blessed each of the sons of Joseph, and bowed in worship, leaning on the top of his staff. By faith Joseph, when he was dying, referred to [the promise of God for] the exodus of the sons of Israel [from Egypt], and gave instructions concerning [the burial of] his bones [in the land of the promise]. By faith Moses, after his birth, was hidden for three months by his parents, because they saw he was a beautiful and divinely favored child; and they were not afraid of the king’s (Pharaoh’s) decree. By faith Moses, when he had grown up, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter, because he preferred to endure the hardship of the people of God rather than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin. He considered the reproach of the Christ [that is, the rebuke he would suffer for his faithful obedience to God] to be greater wealth than all the treasures of Egypt; for he looked ahead to the reward [promised by God]. By faith he left Egypt, being unafraid of the wrath of the king; for he endured [steadfastly], as seeing Him who is unseen. By faith he kept the Passover and the sprinkling of the blood [on the doorposts], so that the destroyer of the firstborn would not touch them (the firstborn of Israel). By faith the people [of Israel] crossed the Red Sea as though they were passing through dry land; but when the Egyptians attempted it they were drowned. By faith the walls of Jericho fell down after they had been encircled for seven days [by Joshua and the sons of Israel]. By faith Rahab the prostitute was not destroyed along with those who were disobedient, because she had welcomed the spies [sent by the sons of Israel] in peace. And what more shall I say? For time will fail me if I tell of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, of David and Samuel and the prophets, who by faith [that is, with an enduring trust in God and His promises] subdued kingdoms, administered justice, obtained promised blessings, closed the mouths of lions, extinguished the power of [raging] fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, became mighty and unbeatable in battle, putting enemy forces to flight. Women received back their dead by resurrection; and others were tortured [to death], refusing to accept release [offered on the condition of denying their faith], so that they would be resurrected to a better life; and others experienced the trial of mocking and scourging [amid torture], and even chains and imprisonment. They were stoned [to death], they were sawn in two, they were lured with tempting offers [to renounce their faith], they were put to death by the sword; they went about wrapped in the skins of sheep and goats, utterly destitute, oppressed, cruelly treated (people of whom the world was not worthy), wandering in deserts and mountains and [living in] caves and holes in the ground. And all of these, though they gained [divine] approval through their faith, did not receive [the fulfillment of] what was promised, because God had us in mind and had something better for us, so that they [these men and women of authentic faith] would not be made perfect [that is, completed in Him] apart from us.’
Ever considered if everyone needs to die to get to heaven?
Ever considered that in both the old and the new testament we find evidence that the answer is no?
‘So all the days of Enoch were three hundred and sixty-five years. And [in reverent fear and obedience] Enoch walked with God; and he was not [found among men], because God took him [away to be home with Him]. ‘ — Genesis 5:23-24
‘For the Lord Himself will come down from heaven with a shout of command, with the voice of the archangel and with the [blast of the] trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain [on the earth] will simultaneously be caught up (raptured) together with them [the resurrected ones] in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord! ‘ — 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17
‘Now I say this, believers, that flesh and blood cannot inherit nor be part of the kingdom of God; nor does the perishable (mortal) inherit the imperishable (immortal). Listen very carefully, I tell you a mystery [a secret truth decreed by God and previously hidden, but now revealed]; we will not all sleep [in death], but we will all be [completely] changed [wondrously transformed], in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at [the sound of] the last trumpet call. For a trumpet will sound, and the dead [who believed in Christ] will be raised imperishable, and we will be [completely] changed [wondrously transformed]. For this perishable [part of us] must put on the imperishable [nature], and this mortal [part of us that is capable of dying] must put on immortality [which is freedom from death]. And when this perishable puts on the imperishable, and this mortal puts on immortality, then the Scripture will be fulfilled that says, “D eath is swallowed up in victory (vanquished forever). O death , where is your victory ? O death , where is your sting ?” The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin [by which it brings death] is the law; but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory [as conquerors] through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brothers and sisters, be steadfast, immovable, always excelling in the work of the Lord [always doing your best and doing more than is needed], being continually aware that your labor [even to the point of exhaustion] in the Lord is not futile nor wasted [it is never without purpose].’ — 1 Corinthians 15:50-58
Are you living your life in faith so as to please God?
Ever considered the impact of faith on the lives of those in the Bible?
Ever considered how faith played a role in the life of Enoch?
‘By faith [that pleased God] Enoch was caught up and taken to heaven so that he would not have a glimpse of death; and he was not found because God had taken him ; for even before he was taken [to heaven], he received the testimony [still on record] that he had walked with God and pleased Him. ‘ — Hebrews 11:5
So are you ready to please God and put a smile on His face?
Are you ready to put your faith in Him and trust God?
Are you ready to go beyond rules and routines and rituals and step up and step into relationship with God?
Are you ready to stop living your life based on principles, concepts, and laws and start living your life being led and directed through a relationship with God? Living out of love and trust in Him and for Him and through Him?
Are you ready to please God by having faith in Him? Trusting Him in all situations?
Are you ready to pursue God?
Are you ready to diligently seek Him?
Are you ready to ask, seek, and knock so that you will get answers, find, and have doors open for you?
Are you ready to live your life with God as a friend rather than some instrument or machine that will give you stuff based on what or how you ask or insert it?
God isn’t a vending machine or a slot machine!
God is more interested with our hearts and wants to have a relationship with us!
God wants to be our friend just like Abraham was a friend of God’s!
Remember God is Love! Remember God is light and there is no darkness in Him!
Remember God delights in giving good gifts! Remember every good and perfect gift comes from God!
So let’s have faith! Let’s appreciate what God is and has given us and has done for us!
So let’s not stop having faith that God exists!
Let’s decide to have a personal relationship with Him!
Let’s decide to get to know Him better by pursuing Him and learn more about His character by reading His Word!
Are you ready to live out your today in a way to put a smile on God’s face?
DISCUSSION TOPICS FROM TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL:
How differently do we respond when we believe God is personal instead of like a vending machine?
Is your faith making God smile? Why or why not? What can you do to strengthen your faith?
QUOTE(S) FROM TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL:
“If we have Christ with us, we can do all things. Let us not be thinking how weak we are. Let us lift up our eyes to Him and think of Him as our Elder Brother who has all power given to Him in Heaven and on earth. He says, ‘Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.'”
So where are you at? Through Job I learned to have hope. Through other life experiences I learned that I didn’t want to have to hear God’s big booming voice but would rather listen to the still quiet voice of the Holy Spirit. Are you ready to live by faith today? Are you ready to decide to invite God into your very situation? Are you ready to start your relationship with Jesus? Let’s pray:
Heavenly Father I come to you in prayer asking for the forgiveness of my Sins. I confess with my mouth and believe with my heart that Jesus is your Son, And that he died on the Cross at Calvary that I might be forgiven. and have Eternal Life in the Kingdom of Heaven. Father, I believe that Jesus rose from the dead and I ask you right now to come in to my life and be my personal Lord and Savior. I repent of my Sins and will Worship you all the day’s of my Life! Because your word is truth, I confess with my mouth that I am Born Again and Cleansed by the Blood of Jesus! In Jesus Name, Amen
Did you pray with me? Would you be willing to leave me a comment so that I can pray with and for you about such an incredible decision? Or if you don’t feel comfortable leaving a comment on my blog, why not email or text me instead?
Let’s look up the word doubt and see what the definition reveals to us:
Definition of doubt as found in answer on Bing for define doubt
Now, let’s take a look at the definition for fear:
Definition of doubt as found in answer on Bing for define fear
It is interesting to see that fear comes up in the definition of doubt and doubt comes up in the definition of fear. Fear shows up in the definition of doubt when you speak of doubt as a verb. Doubt shows up in the definition of fear when you speak of fear as a noun.
So as we consider these two and the similarities and the differences, we find that fear can be a good thing but doubt is not. A healthy fear keeps you aware, ready, and can even save your life. Doubt on the other hand causes a gap, a void, a hesitation that stops you in your tracks. A healthy fear can keep you from getting hurt. A healthy fear can help you stay in touch with reality. A healthy fear can notify you of danger. A healthy fear can point out when something is out of place. Doubt isn’t helpful at all! Doubt doesn’t provide you with any good. Doubt causes you to become disheartened, dejected, downcast, and even cause depression. Doubt tries to undermine you. Doubt tries to sap you of your joy and your energy. Doubt tries to corrupt what is good, what is true, what is right. Doubt tries to pervert reality. These lies and deception cause self-doubt. Doubt tries to kill your dreams!
So how will you bring positive to the situation? How will you choose to prioritize and live your life so that there is a healthy fear but not allow doubt to rob you of your hope, your joy, and your future? Where will you turn for hope, encouragement, and love? Where will you go to get filled up with love and from the fountain that can keep you full? Are you ready to live life to the full like God’s plan for you is defined?
Let’s reflect on this reality through God’s Word before we jump into today’s devotional:
‘But first and most importantly seek (aim at, strive after) His kingdom and His righteousness [His way of doing and being right—the attitude and character of God], and all these things will be given to you also. “So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.’
‘I can do all things [which He has called me to do] through Him who strengthens and empowers me [to fulfill His purpose—I am self-sufficient in Christ’s sufficiency; I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him who infuses me with inner strength and confident peace.] ‘
‘The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life, and have it in abundance [to the full, till it overflows]. ‘
‘For I know the plans and thoughts that I have for you,’ says the L ord , ‘plans for peace and well-being and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. ‘
‘Whatever you do [whatever your task may be], work from the soul [that is, put in your very best effort], as [something done] for the Lord and not for men, ‘
‘Rejoice in the Lord always [delight, take pleasure in Him]; again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentle spirit [your graciousness, unselfishness, mercy, tolerance, and patience] be known to all people. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious or worried about anything, but in everything [every circumstance and situation] by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, continue to make your [specific] requests known to God. And the peace of God [that peace which reassures the heart, that peace] which transcends all understanding, [that peace which] stands guard over your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus [is yours]. ‘
‘Once more Jesus addressed the crowd. He said, “ I am the Light of the world. He who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life.” ‘
‘ “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavily burdened [by religious rituals that provide no peace], and I will give you rest [refreshing your souls with salvation]. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me [following Me as My disciple], for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest (renewal, blessed quiet) for your souls. For My yoke is easy [to bear] and My burden is light.”’
So let’s turn to God for wisdom and discernment. Let’s trust in God in awe and wonder. Let’s take hold of His truth and His promise so as to be able to live our lives according to His plans and live our lives to the full!
Let’s expand on this a bit and use the Amplified version to get better context:
‘ James, a bond-servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, T o the twelve [Hebrew] tribes [scattered abroad among the Gentiles] in the dispersion: Greetings (rejoice)! Consider it nothing but joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you fall into various trials. Be assured that the testing of your faith [through experience] produces endurance [leading to spiritual maturity, and inner peace]. And let endurance have its perfect result and do a thorough work, so that you may be perfect and completely developed [in your faith], lacking in nothing. If any of you lacks wisdom [to guide him through a decision or circumstance], he is to ask of [our benevolent] God, who gives to everyone generously and without rebuke or blame, and it will be given to him. But he must ask [for wisdom] in faith, without doubting [God’s willingness to help], for the one who doubts is like a billowing surge of the sea that is blown about and tossed by the wind. For such a person ought not to think or expect that he will receive anything [at all] from the Lord, being a double-minded man, unstable and restless in all his ways [in everything he thinks, feels, or decides]. ‘
James shared how we will face trials and how we can consider it pure joy through the process, walking it out with God.
‘Consider it nothing but joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you fall into various trials. Be assured that the testing of your faith [through experience] produces endurance [leading to spiritual maturity, and inner peace]. And let endurance have its perfect result and do a thorough work, so that you may be perfect and completely developed [in your faith], lacking in nothing. ‘ James 1:2-4
Jesus shared that we are going to face troubles in our lives but that we can take heart because we trust in Him.
‘I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace. In the world you have tribulation and distress and suffering, but be courageous [be confident, be undaunted, be filled with joy]; I have overcome the world.” [My conquest is accomplished, My victory abiding.]’ John 16:33
There is benefit to trusting God in the midst of trials and troubles.
There is benefit to trusting God in the midst of challenging and difficult times!
Problems, Trials, Troubles test our faith!
It is in the crucible times when things heat up we develop endurance and perseverance!
So let’s ask in faith, humbly admitting to God that we don’t have the answers and what we need is Him!
Let’s turn to God for wisdom so that we have a plan, a process, and a purpose and don’t need to get ourselves wrapped in the paralysis that is doubt or caused by doubt!
Let’s trust in God’s perfect timing and will and way to answer the problem and situation that we are facing!
Let’s trust in God so much that we ask rather than demand in our prayers!
Let’s trust in God so much that we ask confidently, trusting that He will answer!
Let’s be ready to turn to God’s Word for wisdom and encouragement during the wait!
Let’s act when God says GO!
DISCUSSION TOPICS FROM TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL:
Describe situations when you felt confused and needed God’s wisdom. Did you ask “in faith”?
How would you explain what it means to ask for God’s wisdom without doubting?
So where are you at today? Are you living a life of healthy fear? Are you living a life in awe and wonder of God? Are you allowing the enemy of your soul to try and rob you of joy and peace by replacing it with doubt? Are you ready to trust God at His Word? Are you ready to turn to God and invite Him into your very situation? Let’s pray:
Heavenly Father I come to you in prayer asking for the forgiveness of my Sins. I confess with my mouth and believe with my heart that Jesus is your Son, And that he died on the Cross at Calvary that I might be forgiven. and have Eternal Life in the Kingdom of Heaven. Father, I believe that Jesus rose from the dead and I ask you right now to come in to my life and be my personal Lord and Savior. I repent of my Sins and will Worship you all the day’s of my Life! Because your word is truth, I confess with my mouth that I am Born Again and Cleansed by the Blood of Jesus! In Jesus Name, Amen
Did you pray with me? Would you be willing to leave me a comment so that I can pray with and for you about such an incredible decision? Or if you don’t feel comfortable leaving a comment on my blog, why not email or text me instead?
Are you aware of the mistakes you have made? Are you aware of where or when you went off the straight path? Are you able to tell when you walked out of the light and into the darkness? Are you ready to face it and bring it into the light? Are you ready to confess to your mistakes and missteps? Are you ready to overcome hate with love? Are you ready to overcome darkness with light? Are you ready to overcome mistakes with forgiveness?
‘And Moses said to the people, “Do not fear; for God has come to test you, and that His fear may be before you, so that you may not sin.” So the people stood afar off, but Moses drew near the thick darkness where God was.’
Reading this makes me curious about the context and more details and so let me find a bit more detail and incorporate the Amplified translation. It is interesting to see the giving of the 10 commandments and how people responded to God’s presence.
‘Now all the people witnessed the thunder and the flashes of lightning and the sound of the trumpet and the smoking mountain; and as they looked, the people were afraid, and they trembled [and moved backward] and stood at a [safe] distance. Then they said to Moses, “You speak to us and we will listen, but do not let God speak to us or we will die.” Moses said to the people, “Do not be afraid; for God has come in order to test you, and in order that the fear of Him [that is, a profound reverence for Him] will remain with you, so that you do not sin.” So the people stood at a [safe] distance, but Moses approached the thick cloud where God was. ‘
Were you so filled with light and love that you were able to take it head on?
Were you able to turn to God, cry out to God, lean on God, draw closer to God?
Were you able to walk it out with God?
Imagine getting the 10 Commandments from God and being Moses.
Imagine being the people who waited at the bottom of the mountain and are experiencing the sun blocked out by the smoke from the mountain, the trumpets blared, thunder boomed, lightning struck.
Consider the state of mind, their emotions and how they could be different based on their experiences.
The people were filled with fear because of the incredible and terrifying display of God’s majesty!
Can you imagine how they would rather hear from Moses as less intimidating and more on their level?
Imagine the fear of death from hearing God’s voice.
Moses has had past experiences and encounters with God and as such he wasn’t filled with fear.
Imagine having gotten to have the burning bush experience, the meeting with God and getting the 10 Commandments, his dealings with pharaoh, the parting of the Red Sea, the water from the rock, the manna from heaven, the quail from the sky, and so many more things that had built up and strengthen his faith and trust in God!
He knew that God was faithful no matter what!
When we are filled with faith, even when others step away from the challenge or the thread of darkness, we like Moses can move towards it, trusting in God!
He trust God was there!
When we face darkness our response speaks to our current faith levels.
If we step back or we step forward, it indicates the state of our faith and if it is weak and needs to be strengthened or strong and ready to go!
So let’s move in faith! Let’s allow God to strengthen us through our live experiences!
Let’s not lose hope! Let’s not fear! Let’s trust in God!
Let’s allow our experiences of seeing God’s faithfulness, grace, and power empower us to keep going!
DISCUSSION TOPICS FROM TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL:
How do you usually respond in times of confusion and darkness?
What do you need to do to strengthen your faith so that you move toward God in times of darkness?
QUOTE(S) FROM TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL:
“Anxiety is not only a pain which we must ask God to assuage but also a weakness we must ask Him to pardon; for He’s told us to take no care for the morrow.”
So where are you at today? Are you ready to walk into the light? Are you ready to step out of the darkness? Are you ready to cast your cares on God because He cares for you? Are you ready to ask God to forgive you? Are you ready to stop worrying about tomorrow and focusing on today? Let’s pray:
Heavenly Father I come to you in prayer asking for the forgiveness of my Sins. I confess with my mouth and believe with my heart that Jesus is your Son, And that he died on the Cross at Calvary that I might be forgiven. and have Eternal Life in the Kingdom of Heaven. Father, I believe that Jesus rose from the dead and I ask you right now to come in to my life and be my personal Lord and Savior. I repent of my Sins and will Worship you all the day’s of my Life! Because your word is truth, I confess with my mouth that I am Born Again and Cleansed by the Blood of Jesus! In Jesus Name, Amen
Did you pray with me? Would you be willing to leave me a comment so that I can pray with and for you about such an incredible decision? Or if you don’t feel comfortable leaving a comment on my blog, why not email or text me instead?
Do you need to see it to believe or are you good enough believing it based on evidence? Do you believe there is oxygen in the air? Does the fact that you are alive and can breathe give you enough evidence to believe there is oxygen in the air? Do you believe there is something called time? You can’t see time but you can see evidence of time. Be it how things happen over some measure. Be it how we know about history. Be it how we have found fossils. There is evidence to prove there is such thing as time. So you need to see it to believe it or are there things you can believe without seeing it?
Do you need to experience to believe it? Do you believe that you have blood and would bleed if you were cut? Do you believe it because you have seen it? Do you believe it because you have experienced it? Do you believe it because you have seen it happen to someone else? Is getting to learn through someone else’s experience enough for you to believe? If someone else were to share the experience with you would that help you to believe?
What about when it comes to God? Do you believe in God? Do you believe in gods? Do you believe in a god or a GOD? Do you believe because of something you have seen? Do you believe because of something you have heard? Do you believe because of something you have experienced?
‘Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ. ‘
‘As I urged you when I went into Macedonia, stay there in Ephesus so that you may command certain people not to teach false doctrines any longer or to devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies. Such things promote controversial speculations rather than advancing God’s work—which is by faith. ‘
‘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, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. ‘
‘To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues. ‘
So what will it take for you to believe? Does it take the same level of evidence or experience for you to believe something? Does it take a specific amount of time for you to believe something? Do you need to make it personal and see it, touch it, or experience for yourself?
‘Now Thomas (also known as Didymus ), one of the Twelve, was not with the disciples when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord!” But he said to them, “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.” ‘
When you finally get to see it and you do believe it, how do you respond?
‘A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.” Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!” Then Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” ‘
So before we jump into today’s devotional, pause for a moment and consider the things you believe. Consider if they are facts that don’t change. Consider if they are truths that will last. Consider if there is evidence to things you need to believe or reject. Let’s be ready for this day ahead of us! Let’s be building our lives on truth, a solid foundation that doesn’t change, and a firm life that we can live out into eternity.
Let’s take a moment to consider what is being said and grab a bit more context through the Amplified translation:
‘ NOW FAITH is the assurance (the confirmation, the title deed) of the things [we] hope for, being the proof of things [we] do not see and the conviction of their reality [faith perceiving as real fact what is not revealed to the senses]. For by [faith–trust and holy fervor born of faith] the men of old had divine testimony borne to them and obtained a good report. By faith we understand that the worlds [during the successive ages] were framed (fashioned, put in order, and equipped for their intended purpose) by the word of God, so that what we see was not made out of things which are visible. [Prompted, actuated] by faith Abel brought God a better and more acceptable sacrifice than Cain, because of which it was testified of him that he was righteous [that he was upright and in right standing with God], and God bore witness by accepting and acknowledging his gifts. And though he died, yet [through the incident] he is still speaking. [Gen. 4:3-10.] Because of faith Enoch was caught up and transferred to heaven, so that he did not have a glimpse of death; and he was not found, because God had translated him. For even before he was taken to heaven, he received testimony [still on record] that he had pleased and been satisfactory to God. [Gen. 5:21-24.] But without faith it is impossible to please and be satisfactory to Him. For whoever would come near to God must [necessarily] believe that God exists and that He is the rewarder of those who earnestly and diligently seek Him [out]. [Prompted] by faith Noah, being forewarned by God concerning events of which as yet there was no visible sign, took heed and diligently and reverently constructed and prepared an ark for the deliverance of his own family. By this [his faith which relied on God] he passed judgment and sentence on the world’s unbelief and became an heir and possessor of righteousness (that relation of being right into which God puts the person who has faith). [Gen. 6:13-22.] [Urged on] by faith Abraham, when he was called, obeyed and went forth to a place which he was destined to receive as an inheritance; and he went, although he did not know or trouble his mind about where he was to go. [Prompted] by faith he dwelt as a temporary resident in the land which was designated in the promise [of God, though he was like a stranger] in a strange country, living in tents with Isaac and Jacob, fellow heirs with him of the same promise. [Gen. 12:1-8.] For he was [waiting expectantly and confidently] looking forward to the city which has fixed and firm foundations, whose Architect and Builder is God. Because of faith also Sarah herself received physical power to conceive a child, even when she was long past the age for it, because she considered [God] Who had given her the promise to be reliable and trustworthy and true to His word. [Gen. 17:19; 18:11-14; 21:2.] So from one man, though he was physically as good as dead, there have sprung descendants whose number is as the stars of heaven and as countless as the innumerable sands on the seashore. [Gen. 15:5, 6; 22:17; 32:12.] These people all died controlled and sustained by their faith, but not having received the tangible fulfillment of [God’s] promises, only having seen it and greeted it from a great distance by faith, and all the while acknowledging and confessing that they were strangers and temporary residents and exiles upon the earth. [Gen. 23:4; Ps. 39:12.] Now those people who talk as they did show plainly that they are in search of a fatherland (their own country). If they had been thinking with [homesick] remembrance of that country from which they were emigrants, they would have found constant opportunity to return to it. But the truth is that they were yearning for and aspiring to a better and more desirable country, that is, a heavenly [one]. For that reason God is not ashamed to be called their God [even to be surnamed their God–the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob], for He has prepared a city for them. [Exod. 3:6, 15; 4:5.] By faith Abraham, when he was put to the test [while the testing of his faith was still in progress], had already brought Isaac for an offering; he who had gladly received and welcomed [God’s] promises was ready to sacrifice his only son, [Gen. 22:1-10.] Of whom it was said, Through Isaac shall your descendants be reckoned. [Gen. 21:12.] For he reasoned that God was able to raise [him] up even from among the dead. Indeed in the sense that Isaac was figuratively dead [potentially sacrificed], he did [actually] receive him back from the dead. [With eyes of] faith Isaac, looking far into the future, invoked blessings upon Jacob and Esau. [Gen. 27:27-29, 39, 40.] [Prompted] by faith Jacob, when he was dying, blessed each of Joseph’s sons and bowed in prayer over the top of his staff. [Gen. 48.] [Actuated] by faith Joseph, when nearing the end of his life, referred to [the promise of God for] the departure of the Israelites out of Egypt and gave instructions concerning the burial of his own bones. [Gen. 50:24, 25; Exod. 13:19.] [Prompted] by faith Moses, after his birth, was kept concealed for three months by his parents, because they saw how comely the child was; and they were not overawed and terrified by the king’s decree. [Exod. 1:22; 2:2.] [Aroused] by faith Moses, when he had grown to maturity and become great, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter, [Exod. 2:10, 15.] Because he preferred to share the oppression [suffer the hardships] and bear the shame of the people of God rather than to have the fleeting enjoyment of a sinful life. He considered the contempt and abuse and shame [borne for] the Christ (the Messiah Who was to come) to be greater wealth than all the treasures of Egypt, for he looked forward and away to the reward (recompense). [Motivated] by faith he left Egypt behind him, being unawed and undismayed by the wrath of the king; for he never flinched but held staunchly to his purpose and endured steadfastly as one who gazed on Him Who is invisible. [Exod. 2:15.] By faith (simple trust and confidence in God) he instituted and carried out the Passover and the sprinkling of the blood [on the doorposts], so that the destroyer of the firstborn (the angel) might not touch those [of the children of Israel]. [Exod. 12:21-30.] [Urged on] by faith the people crossed the Red Sea as [though] on dry land, but when the Egyptians tried to do the same thing they were swallowed up [by the sea]. [Exod. 14:21-31.] Because of faith the walls of Jericho fell down after they had been encompassed for seven days [by the Israelites]. [Josh. 6:12-21.] [Prompted] by faith Rahab the prostitute was not destroyed along with those who refused to believe and obey, because she had received the spies in peace [without enmity]. [Josh. 2:1-21; 6:22-25.] And what shall I say further? For time would fail me to tell of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, of David and Samuel and the prophets, [Judg. 4:1-5; 6:1-8, 35; 11:1-12, 15; 13:1-16; I Sam. 1-30; II Sam. 1-24; I Kings 1-2; Acts 3:24.] Who by [the help of] faith subdued kingdoms, administered justice, obtained promised blessings, closed the mouths of lions, [Dan. 6.] Extinguished the power of raging fire, escaped the devourings of the sword, out of frailty and weakness won strength and became stalwart, even mighty and resistless in battle, routing alien hosts. [Dan. 3.] [Some] women received again their dead by a resurrection. Others were tortured to death with clubs, refusing to accept release [offered on the terms of denying their faith], so that they might be resurrected to a better life. [I Kings 17:17-24; II Kings 4:25-37.] Others had to suffer the trial of mocking and scourging and even chains and imprisonment. They were stoned to death; they were lured with tempting offers [to renounce their faith]; they were sawn asunder; they were slaughtered by the sword; [while they were alive] they had to go about wrapped in the skins of sheep and goats, utterly destitute, oppressed, cruelly treated– [Men] of whom the world was not worthy–roaming over the desolate places and the mountains, and [living] in caves and caverns and holes of the earth. And all of these, though they won divine approval by [means of] their faith, did not receive the fulfillment of what was promised, Because God had us in mind and had something better and greater in view for us, so that they [these heroes and heroines of faith] should not come to perfection apart from us [before we could join them].’
What areas or things are you putting your faith in today?
What about that chair you are sitting on?
What about that screen you are looking at?
What about that floor you are walking on?
Do you have faith the chair will hold you and not break?
Do you have faith that the floor won’t collapse and cause you to fall?
What about technology? What about other people?
Do you trust that when you come to a green light that it turned red the other way?
Do you trust that when you come to a green light that the person going the other way won’t go through the red light?
What about in the spiritual realm?
Where can you put your trust?
Where do you put your faith?
Do you grab hold of the evidence of God’s power, love, and faithfulness even when it is invisible because of the evidence?
Do you grab hold of the beauty of nature as evidence of God’s creativity?
Do you grab hold of the life of Jesus as evidence of God’s character and purpose for our lives?
So with the mystery of the unseen, what has brought you to the point of faith?
So with the mystery of the invisible, what has allowed you to come to the point of faith?
Is it creation? Is it Jesus? Is it stories of believers?
We all have to make the choice for ourselves!
We all have the freewill to decide for ourselves!
Let’s consider what we read about from today’s verse of the day!
Let’s grab hold of what we read in Hebrews 11 to give us more context!
So today let’s stand firm on God’s faithfulness in the past and reach forward into the future trusting God and walking and standing in faith that God is in control, He did it before, He can do it again!
Let’s take a moment and listen to a song as we get ready for the day:
So where are you at today? What do you believe? What do you have faith in? Whom will you trust? How will that impact the way you choose to live out your today? Let’s pray:
Heavenly Father I come to you in prayer asking for the forgiveness of my Sins. I confess with my mouth and believe with my heart that Jesus is your Son, And that he died on the Cross at Calvary that I might be forgiven. and have Eternal Life in the Kingdom of Heaven. Father, I believe that Jesus rose from the dead and I ask you right now to come in to my life and be my personal Lord and Savior. I repent of my Sins and will Worship you all the day’s of my Life! Because your word is truth, I confess with my mouth that I am Born Again and Cleansed by the Blood of Jesus! In Jesus Name, Amen
Did you pray with me? Would you be willing to leave me a comment so that I can pray with and for you about such an incredible decision? Or if you don’t feel comfortable leaving a comment on my blog, why not email or text me instead?
Have you swerved from the path? Have you tried to go it alone? Have you tried to make your own way? Have you tried to make a plan that is out there? Have you found yourself missing the mark? Have you found that you need to make some course correction? Do you know how to get back? Do you know how to get back on course? Do you have a way to find true north? Do you need to turn back? Do you need to go back in order to move forward? Where will you turn? What will you do? How will you get back on track? How will you get back to where you need to be? How will you get back to where you should be? Are you ready to admit where you went wrong? Are you ready to adjust? Are you ready to walk it out in humility? Could today be the first day of the rest of your life where you are doing what you should be doing and going where you should be going in order to arrive where you are supposed to get?
Are you lost? Are you ready to be found? Are you troubled? Are you ready to take heart? Are you facing a trial? Are you ready to consider it pure joy? Are you ready to wait on God? Are you ready to trust God? Are you ready to stop being overwhelmed? Are you ready to stop being overlooked? Are you ready for a new today? Could today be the day of change? Could today be the day of transformation? It’s up to you!
‘And behold, there was a woman who had a spirit of infirmity eighteen years, and was bent over and could in no way raise herself up. But when Jesus saw her, He called her to Him and said to her, “Woman, you are loosed from your infirmity.” And He laid His hands on her, and immediately she was made straight, and glorified God.’
Let’s get a bit more context and read the full section from God’s Word:
‘Now He was teaching in one of the synagogues on the Sabbath. And behold, there was a woman who had a spirit of infirmity eighteen years, and was bent over and could in no way raise herself up. But when Jesus saw her, He called her to Him and said to her, “Woman, you are loosed from your infirmity.” And He laid His hands on her, and immediately she was made straight, and glorified God. But the ruler of the synagogue answered with indignation, because Jesus had healed on the Sabbath; and he said to the crowd, “There are six days on which men ought to work; therefore come and be healed on them, and not on the Sabbath day.” The Lord then answered him and said, “Hypocrite! Does not each one of you on the Sabbath loose his ox or donkey from the stall, and lead it away to water it? So ought not this woman, being a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan has bound—think of it—for eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the Sabbath?” And when He said these things, all His adversaries were put to shame; and all the multitude rejoiced for all the glorious things that were done by Him.’
So where are you at today? Do you need some straightening out? Do you need God to touch your life? Do you need a physical touch? Do you need a relational touch? Do you need a psychological touch? Do you need an emotional touch? Are you looking or or needing a miracle from God? Are you ready to turn to Him? Are you ready to give it up and over to Him? Let’s pray:
Heavenly Father I come to you in prayer asking for the forgiveness of my Sins. I confess with my mouth and believe with my heart that Jesus is your Son, And that he died on the Cross at Calvary that I might be forgiven. and have Eternal Life in the Kingdom of Heaven. Father, I believe that Jesus rose from the dead and I ask you right now to come in to my life and be my personal Lord and Savior. I repent of my Sins and will Worship you all the day’s of my Life! Because your word is truth, I confess with my mouth that I am Born Again and Cleansed by the Blood of Jesus! In Jesus Name, Amen
Did you pray with me? Would you be willing to leave me a comment so that I can pray with and for you about such an incredible decision? Or if you don’t feel comfortable leaving a comment on my blog, why not email or text me instead?
Ever been through a lot of time or a long time where hope was fleeting? Ever been through a hard time or discouraging time where hope was lacking? Ever been through a challenging and uncertain time where hope was fading?
How did you go through it? Did it bring unhappiness? Did it bring depression? Did it bring physical illness? Did it bring sadness? Did it bring sorrow? Did it come with a feeling or sense of disappointment? Did it comes with a sense of rejection? Did it feel like it was zapping your spirit and your joy?
How did you respond? Where did you turn? How did it impact you physically, emotionally, and spiritually?
Did you turn to God? Did you turn to God’s Word?
Let’s consider what we can find in the Word of God…
‘Why are you in despair, O my soul? And why are you restless and disturbed within me? Hope in God and wait expectantly for Him, for I shall again praise Him, The help of my [sad] countenance and my God.’
So are you ready to do it? What do you care about? What is making you worried? What is causing you to be anxious? Speak them and give them to God! Let’s exchange our cares and anxiety for God’s care for us! Let’s exchange our cares and anxiety for God’s love for us! Let’s exchange our cares and anxiety for God’s mercy on us!
We need to get rid of and replace these thoughts that are triggering or causing fear, worry, doubt, and anxiety with God’s Word, God’s love, and God’s presence with us. We need to pick up the antidote for fear which is our faith in God!
Remember how in the Bible it tells us to fear not? Remember how there are enough that we can read one or take hold of one per day? He provides us with a way to go from fearful to fearless! There are references that speak to there not being 365 fear nots, there are many references that give you enough Bible verses to make it through the year.
Check out these reference sites that point to God’s Word to help you find the fear not for today:
So the key to facing the disappointments and the challenges, the trials and the troubles, the anxiety and the fear is hope. Without hope everything else can makes its way in and try to shake up our lives. So we need to turn to God! We need to cry out and call on God! We need to lean on God harder! And in so doing we will be able to use our faith as the antidote to fear. We will be able to consider it pure joy when we face trials of many kinds. We will be able to take heart when we face troubles. We will be able to lean not on our own understanding but trust God rather than being anxious.
So where are you at today? Is all the crazy going on in this world getting to you? Is all the crazy going on in this world shaking you? Step on and stand on the rock of our salvation which is unshakable. Let’s build our lives on Jesus! It doesn’t mean we won’t face problems but it does mean we won’t have to face them alone.
Don’t let your heart be troubled! Let’s take hold of the words of Jesus!
‘ “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God ; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going.” ‘
So where are you at today? What are you going through? What are you in need of? Do you know where to go? Do you know where to turn? Where does your help come from? Where does your hope come from? Are you ready to turn to God? Are you ready to invite Jesus into your heart today? Could today be your new beginning?
Heavenly Father I come to you in prayer asking for the forgiveness of my Sins. I confess with my mouth and believe with my heart that Jesus is your Son, And that he died on the Cross at Calvary that I might be forgiven. and have Eternal Life in the Kingdom of Heaven. Father, I believe that Jesus rose from the dead and I ask you right now to come in to my life and be my personal Lord and Savior. I repent of my Sins and will Worship you all the day’s of my Life! Because your word is truth, I confess with my mouth that I am Born Again and Cleansed by the Blood of Jesus! In Jesus Name, Amen
Did you pray with me? Would you be willing to leave me a comment so that I can pray with and for you about such an incredible decision? Or if you don’t feel comfortable leaving a comment on my blog, why not email or text me instead?
![doubt
[dout]
NOUN
a feeling of uncertainty or lack of conviction.
"some doubt has been cast upon the authenticity of this account" · "they had doubts that they would ever win"
synonyms:
uncertainty · lack of certainty · unsureness · indecision · hesitation · hesitancy · dubiousness · suspicion · confusion · question mark · queries · questions · dubiety · incertitude · diffidence · insecurity · inhibition · unease · uneasiness · apprehension · wavering · vacillation · irresolution · lack of conviction · demurral · skepticism · distrust · mistrust · lack of trust · doubtfulness · cynicism · disbelief · incredulity · unbelief · misbelief · lack of confidence/conviction · wariness · chariness · questioning · reservations · misgivings · suspicions · qualms
VERB
feel uncertain about.
"I doubt my ability to do the job"
synonyms:
distrust · mistrust · have doubts about · harbor suspicions about · have misgivings about · be skeptical about · have qualms about · be suspicious of · be wary of · feel chary about · feel uneasy about · have/harbor reservations about · have a funny feeling about
archaic
fear; be afraid.
"I doubt not your contradictions"](https://from2005toeternity.files.wordpress.com/2021/10/image-4.png)
![fear
[ˈfir]
NOUN
an unpleasant emotion caused by the belief that someone or something is dangerous, likely to cause pain, or a threat.
"he is prey to irrational fears" · "drivers are threatening to quit their jobs in fear after a cabby's murder" · "fear of increasing unemployment"
synonyms:
terror · fright · fearfulness · horror · alarm · panic · agitation · trepidation · dread · consternation · dismay · distress · anxiety · worry · angst · unease · uneasiness · apprehension · apprehensiveness · nervousness · nerves · timidity · disquiet · disquietude · discomposure · unrest · perturbation · foreboding · misgiving · doubt · suspicion · the Joe Blakes · worriment · inquietude · phobia · aversion · antipathy · bugbear · bogey · nightmare · neurosis · complex · mania · abnormal fear · irrational fear · obsessive fear · bête noire
VERB
be afraid of (someone or something) as likely to be dangerous, painful, or threatening.
"farmers fear that they will lose business" · "he said he didn't care about life so why should he fear death?"
synonyms:
be afraid of · be fearful of · be scared of · be apprehensive of · dread · live in fear of · go in terror of · be terrified of · be terrified by · cower before · tremble before · cringe from · shrink from · flinch from · be anxious about · worry about · panic about · feel consternation about · have forebodings about · feel apprehensive about · have a phobia about · have a horror of · have a dread of · shudder at · take fright at](https://from2005toeternity.files.wordpress.com/2021/10/image-5.png)
God's story through my life from 2005 to eternity... 
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