Are you seeing the change? Are you grabbing hold of the change? Are you preparing for the change? Are you seeing your role and responsibility in the midst of the change?
Today’s verse of the day is an interesting one as I continue to focus on the need and direction to thrive in 2022. It comes to us from Matthew 23:11 which says:
So are this change is coming, are you ready to thrive by serving through it all? Who will you serve? Who needs do you need to serve? Who is in need of your service? How will that impact their lives and their ability for them to also thrive in 2022?
Let’s grab a bit more context for this verse before we move forward.
‘Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples: “The teachers of the law and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat. So you must be careful to do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach. They tie up heavy, cumbersome loads and put them on other people’s shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to lift a finger to move them. “Everything they do is done for people to see: They make their phylacteries wide and the tassels on their garments long; they love the place of honor at banquets and the most important seats in the synagogues; they love to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces and to be called ‘Rabbi’ by others. “But you are not to be called ‘Rabbi,’ for you have one Teacher, and you are all brothers. And do not call anyone on earth ‘father,’ for you have one Father, and he is in heaven. Nor are you to be called instructors, for you have one Instructor, the Messiah. The greatest among you will be your servant. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted. ‘
Don’t walk around, strutting like a rooster in a hen house for we read how if you exalt yourself you will be humbled. God directs us to humble ourselves and allow Him to exalt us when the timing is right! If we take a look at James 4:10 in the Amplified version, we get:
‘Humble yourselves [with an attitude of repentance and insignificance] in the presence of the Lord, and He will exalt you [He will lift you up, He will give you purpose]. ‘
So today in our desire to thrive in 2022, let’s humble ourselves and pray! Let’s humble ourselves and serve! Let’s lean in on God for His wisdom and discernment! Let’s seek direction and instruction from the Holy Spirit throughout our days! Let’s allow Jesus to be seen in and through the way we choose to live our lives today! Let’s trust God enough that in the midst of all the changes, as we humbly serve, He will take care of the rest! Remember what it says in Matthew 6:25-34 about not worrying?
‘ “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life ? “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.’
So where are you at today? Are you ready to take hold of God’s plans and purposes for your life? Are you ready to be a servant leader? Are you ready to lead through change by serving others? Are you needing help? Are you needing an example? Then today invite Jesus into your life and to your very situation so that He can help transform you and empower you to be everything He created you to be. Let’s pray:
Ever considered that if you are still alive then you still have something to learn? Ever considered the importance of being a continuous learner? Ever considered the importance of leaders not only being able but also being willing to learn? Nobody likes a know-it-all right? Or at least someone who is so proud and arogant to act like they know it all right? Leaders should be humble. Leaders should be servants. Leaders should be lifelong learners.
‘As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving.’
Let’s grab the context of this message to the Colossae church by expanding the text and using the Amplified version.
‘For I want you to know how great a struggle I have for you and for those [believers] at Laodicea, and for all who [like yourselves] have never seen me face to face. [For my hope is] that their hearts may be encouraged as they are knit together in [unselfish] love, so that they may have all the riches that come from the full assurance of understanding [the joy of salvation], resulting in a true [and more intimate] knowledge of the mystery of God, that is, Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge [regarding the word and purposes of God]. I say this so that no one will deceive you with persuasive [but thoroughly deceptive] arguments. For even though I am absent [from you] in body, nevertheless I am with you in spirit, delighted to see your good discipline [as you stand shoulder to shoulder and form a solid front] and to see the stability of your faith in Christ [your steadfast reliance on Him and your unwavering confidence in His power, wisdom, and goodness].
Therefore as you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, walk in [union with] Him [reflecting His character in the things you do and say—living lives that lead others away from sin], having been deeply rooted [in Him] and now being continually built up in Him and [becoming increasingly more] established in your faith, just as you were taught, and overflowing in it with gratitude.
See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception [pseudo-intellectual babble], according to the tradition [and musings] of mere men, following the elementary principles of this world, rather than following [the truth—the teachings of] Christ. For in Him all the fullness of Deity (the Godhead) dwells in bodily form [completely expressing the divine essence of God]. And in Him you have been made complete [achieving spiritual stature through Christ], and He is the head over all rule and authority [of every angelic and earthly power]. In Him you were also circumcised with a circumcision not made with hands, but by the [spiritual] circumcision of Christ in the stripping off of the body of the flesh [the sinful carnal nature], having been buried with Him in baptism and raised with Him [to a new life] through [your] faith in the working of God, [as displayed] when He raised Christ from the dead. When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your flesh (worldliness, manner of life), God made you alive together with Christ, having [freely] forgiven us all our sins, having canceled out the certificate of debt consisting of legal demands [which were in force] against us and which were hostile to us. And this certificate He has set aside and completely removed by nailing it to the cross. When He had disarmed the rulers and authorities [those supernatural forces of evil operating against us], He made a public example of them [exhibiting them as captives in His triumphal procession], having triumphed over them through the cross.
Therefore let no one judge you in regard to food and drink or in regard to [the observance of] a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath day. Such things are only a shadow of what is to come and they have only symbolic value; but the substance [the reality of what is foreshadowed] belongs to Christ. Let no one defraud you of your prize [your freedom in Christ and your salvation] by insisting on mock humility and the worship of angels, going into detail about visions [he claims] he has seen [to justify his authority], puffed up [in conceit] by his unspiritual mind, and not holding fast to the head [of the body, Jesus Christ], from whom the entire body, supplied and knit together by its joints and ligaments, grows with the growth [that can come only] from God.
If you have died with Christ to the elementary principles of the world, why, as if you were still living in the world, do you submit to rules and regulations, such as, “Do not handle [this], do not taste [that], do not [even] touch!”? (these things all perish with use)—in accordance with the commandments and teachings of men. These practices indeed have the appearance [that popularly passes as that] of wisdom in self-made religion and mock humility and severe treatment of the body (asceticism), but are of no value against sinful indulgence [because they do not honor God].’
Ever been drawn to a powerful leader because of their excitement for learning a new skill or gaining new insights?
Ever felt repulsed or discouraged by a leader because they think they know-it-all and so no new ideas are welcomed?
Let’s choose to be leaders who build excitement and enthusiasm and creativity by being lifelong learners so that others want to connect, to meet, to create, and to build relationships.
Let’s choose to be leaders people want to connect with and follow because we are people who listen, learn, and get excited about it.
Let’s choose to learn in all areas of our lives.
Let’s make time to learn spiritually through God’s Word, Bible studies, devotionals, and the leading and guiding of the Holy Spirit!
Let’s be ready and willing to learn to and grow!
Let’s keep learning so that we can keep moving forward, keeping that moment and energy for God and His Word.
Let’s decide to make time with God and His Word so that we don’t start to fade or atrophy in our spiritual lives!
Let’s grab hold of Paul’s analogies as to what we need to keep learning:
walking – walk in [union with] Him [reflecting His character in the things you do and say—living lives that lead others away from sin]
being rooted – having been deeply rooted [in Him]
being built up – being continually built up in Him and [becoming increasingly more] established in your faith, just as you were taught, and overflowing in it with gratitude.
Let’s remember this is a walk of faith!
A walk is slow and consistent.
A walk of faith needs to be in pursuit of God and His will.
A walk that characterizes our lives in relationship with God.
Roots from a plant that wants to survive run deep in order to have water, nutrients and strength.
So we need to allow our roots to run deep into God’s truth and grace to find our spiritual nutrition and our strength by having gone deep enough.
A sturdy building requires the right structure and design. Let’s choose to honor God buy building up our lives with Him at the center in order to have powerful spiritual experience through following Him, His will, His way with character so that in all that we think, say, and do we bring honor, glory, and praise to Him in Jesus’s name.
Do you think there is such thing as enough or do we need to keep going and never stop learning?
Do you think there is ever a time when we can coast or do we need to keep going and never stop learning?
Let’s learn from Paul’s example who pursued God’s will and purpose till the end.
Let’s learn from Paul’s example and never put our lives on cruise control but rather pursue God’s will in and through it all.
Let’s keep learning till the day we die.
Let’s reflect on God’s Word and how Paul, shortly before he was to be executed was requesting of Timothy that he bring him books to read.
‘When you come bring the coat that I left at Troas with Carpus, and the books, especially the parchments. ‘ 2 Timothy 4:13
DISCUSSION TOPICS FROM TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL:
What happens to us when we stop learning?
What are you doing right now to keep walking, going deeper, and growing stronger?
So where are you at today? What are you learning? What have you learned? Are you setting aside time to learn from God and His Word? Will you allow time for wisdom and discernment in the midst of your day? Will you allow the Holy Spirit who is our teacher in all things and reminds us of what Jesus has said lead and guide you today? Are you ready to start a relationship with Jesus? Are you ready to invite Him into your heart to help you navigate this thing called life so that you won’t ever have to go through anything alone again? 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?
Does knowing you are being watched make a difference to how you live your life? Would knowing that there is always somebody watching make a difference to how you live your life? How would realizing that there are people watching and looking up to you as an example or role model change how you choose to live your life? Would it matter who was watching you? Would it matter when they were watching you? Would it matter where they were watching you? Would it matter why they were watching you? Would it matter how they were watching you?
I remember a coworker who could be a bit abrupt, loud, and even curse in meetings. I remember how things changed on take your kid to work day. I remember the team jokingly asking if they could bring their kid to work every day. How about you? Even when you don’t think anyone is looking, if you knew they were would that change your behavior? Even when you didn’t know who was watching but you knew they were, would that change your behavior?
What would it take for you to choose / decide to live your life in a way that anyone watching would see you as a good example? How would it be different from how you live your life today? Are you ready to give it a try? Are you ready to live your life today as a good example to and for anyone and everyone who is watching? Do you realize that charisma isn’t enough but that you require character? Will you lead with character? As I considered this I found this interesting post: Character vs. Charisma in Leadership.
Let’s take a broader look into the context of this message from Paul to Timothy. We need to remember how old or young we are, we are being watched and as such need to live our lives in a way that will provide a good example to those watching you.
‘But the [Holy] Spirit explicitly and unmistakably declares that in later times some will turn away from the faith, paying attention instead to deceitful and seductive spirits and doctrines of demons, [misled] by the hypocrisy of liars whose consciences are seared as with a branding iron [leaving them incapable of ethical functioning], who forbid marriage and advocate abstaining from [certain kinds of] foods which God has created to be gratefully shared by those who believe and have [a clear] knowledge of the truth. For everything God has created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with gratitude; for it is sanctified [set apart, dedicated to God] by means of the word of God and prayer. If you point out these instructions to the brothers and sisters, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, constantly nourished [through study] on the words of the faith and of the good [Christian] doctrine which you have closely followed. But have nothing to do with irreverent folklore and silly myths. On the other hand, discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness [keeping yourself spiritually fit]. For physical training is of some value, but godliness (spiritual training) is of value in everything and in every way, since it holds promise for the present life and for the life to come. This is a faithful and trustworthy saying worthy of full acceptance and approval. It is for this that we labor and strive [often called to account], because we have fixed our [confident] hope on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe [in Him, recognize Him as the Son of God, and accept Him as Savior and Lord]. Keep commanding and teaching these things. Let no one look down on [you because of] your youth, but be an example and set a pattern for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in [moral] purity. Until I come, devote yourself to public reading [of Scripture], to preaching and to teaching [the sound doctrine of God’s word]. Do not neglect the spiritual gift within you, [that special endowment] which was intentionally bestowed on you [by the Holy Spirit] through prophetic utterance when the elders laid their hands on you [at your ordination]. Practice and work hard on these things; be absorbed in them [completely occupied in your ministry], so that your progress will be evident to all. Pay close attention to yourself [concentrate on your personal development] and to your teaching; persevere in these things [hold to them], for as you do this you will ensure salvation both for yourself and for those who hear you.’
Let’s be focused on our character more than our abilities!
Let’s allow God to check our character in order to help it be good!
Let’s go beyond just being good examples of the things we can do!
Let’s be good examples by the character of hearts and lives!
Let them learn the skills and talents but make sure to live a life that helps them also learn about how to treat others (re: your character).
Let them learn more than just a handy skill or talent, add to it how to treat your family, how to treat coworkers, how to respond to others, even those who can be annoying or in the midst of difficult situations.
Let’s allow our character be on display in how we not only speak to but talk about others too.
Let’s be more focused on the well-being of others than trying to climb the corporate ladder!
Let’s take time to care for those struggling, hurting rather than stepping over others to get up the ladder!
‘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. ‘ — 2 Corinthians 5:18-20
So today you will be faced with choices to make and decisions to make, we all have freewill to use with each of them, so let’s choose love over selfishness, faith over doubt, hope over complaining, purity over sinful passions!
Let’s stop and make sure we aren’t in auto-pilot, doing things out of habit that are actually bad for us and for those who are watching.
Let’s stop and make sure that the habits we respond with are good before we just do them!
Let’s stop and make sure that the attitudes are positive and the behaviors are good before we allow auto-pilot to kick in!
If we discover or when we discover a bad habit, let’s stop and break it by responding in a better way!
When we discover a bad habit, let’s stop, pray to God for wisdom, and then respond in a new way!
Let’s stop the bad habits and start new ones!
Let’s choose to be Jesus with skin on to the world around us!
Let’s choose to live out our today in a way that points people to Jesus!
Let’s choose to be Jesus’s examples to those around us so that He can touch all of the people He brings into our lives today!
Don’t miss such an exciting and empowering life being offered to you by God!
DISCUSSION TOPICS FROM TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL:
Who is the best “leader by example” you know? Describe that person’s impact on others.
What new choices do you need to make, and what new habits do you need to develop?
Proverbs 16 (Entrust your life, direction, and thoughts to God)
Proverbs 17 (Look to live at peace, in peace, and with peace)
Proverbs 18 (Don’t go it alone! Don’t be selfish! Don’t cause derision nor contempt!)
So where are you at today? Are you leading by example? Are you looking for an example to follow? Why not allow WWJD – What Would Jesus Do – help you to live your life right? Why not invite Jesus into every situation in order to help you to live out your today in a way that will be a good example? Why not invite Jesus into your today to help you know what can stay and what needs to be put away? 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?
It is important to have good leaders because they guide others on their way. It is important to have good leaders because they will help mentor, be role models, motivate and support others, and help with communication. It is important to have good leaders because they help build a good environment which translates into success, morale, and connectivity/retention. It is important to have good leaders who are resilient, creative, humble, compassionate and visionary. It is important to have a good leader who can have a vision and communicate it. It is important to have a good leader who can inspire others. It is important to have a good leader who has a passion for the cause, the purpose, and the people. It is important to have a good leader who is able to inspire; who can motivate and rejuvenate people, build and maintain morale. It is important to have a good leader who is positive, in the midst of the highs and the lows. It is important to have a good leader who listens to people and is able to communicate well and clearly. Having a good leader is kind of like love. ‘Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. ‘ These are all great characteristics of a good leader!
So you get a picture of why a leader is important!
God is looking for leaders who will step up and stand firm on His purpose and calling for their lives. ‘“I looked for someone among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found no one. ‘ — Ezekiel 22:30
The consequences when that leader won’t show up and won’t follow God’s directions and prompting can be catastrophic. ‘So I will pour out my wrath on them and consume them with my fiery anger, bringing down on their own heads all they have done, declares the Sovereign Lord .”’ — Ezekiel 22:31
So let’s take hold of our role and the state of our heart and mind and how God’s Word directs us:
‘ If My people, who are called by My name, shall humble themselves, pray, seek, crave, and require of necessity My face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven, forgive their sin, and heal their land.’ — 2 Chronicles 7:14
‘ And seek (inquire for, require, and request) the peace and welfare of the city to which I have caused you to be carried away captive; and pray to the Lord for it, for in the welfare of [the city in which you live] you will have welfare.’ — Jeremiah 29:7
‘ FIRST OF all, then, I admonish and urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be offered on behalf of all men, For kings and all who are in positions of authority or high responsibility, that [outwardly] we may pass a quiet and undisturbed life [and inwardly] a peaceable one in all godliness and reverence and seriousness in every way.’ — 1 Timothy 2:1-2
‘ Show respect for all men [treat them honorably]. Love the brotherhood (the Christian fraternity of which Christ is the Head). Reverence God. Honor the emperor.’ — 1 Peter 2:17
And now that we are aligned with God and have set our hearts and mind on His plan, purpose, will, and wisdom, let’s grab hold of the importance of us praying for those in leadership!
‘ He makes nations great, and He destroys them; He enlarges nations [and then straitens and shrinks them again], and leads them [away captive]. He takes away understanding from the leaders of the people of the land and of the earth, and causes them to wander in a wilderness where there is no path. They grope in the dark without light, and He makes them to stagger and wander like a drunken man.’ — Job 12:23-25
‘ Now therefore, O you kings, act wisely; be instructed and warned, O you rulers of the earth. Serve the Lord with reverent awe and worshipful fear; rejoice and be in high spirits with trembling [lest you displease Him].’ — Psalm 2:10-11
‘ MY SON, if you will receive my words and treasure up my commandments within you, Making your ear attentive to skillful and godly Wisdom and inclining and directing your heart and mind to understanding [applying all your powers to the quest for it]; Yes, if you cry out for insight and raise your voice for understanding, If you seek [Wisdom] as for silver and search for skillful and godly Wisdom as for hidden treasures, Then you will understand the reverent and worshipful fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of [our omniscient] God. [Prov. 1:7.] For the Lord gives skillful and godly Wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding. He hides away sound and godly Wisdom and stores it for the righteous (those who are upright and in right standing with Him); He is a shield to those who walk uprightly and in integrity, That He may guard the paths of justice; yes, He preserves the way of His saints. [I Sam. 2:9; Ps. 66:8, 9.]’ — Proverbs 2:1-8
‘ For skillful and godly Wisdom shall enter into your heart, and knowledge shall be pleasant to you. Discretion shall watch over you, understanding shall keep you,’ — Proverbs 2:10-11
‘ Where no wise guidance is, the people fall, but in the multitude of counselors there is safety.’ — Proverbs 11:14
‘ THE KING’S heart is in the hand of the Lord, as are the watercourses; He turns it whichever way He wills.’ — Proverbs 21:1
So let’s not grow weary in doing good! Let’s not grow weary in praying for our leadership. Let’s even consider how we can join together and pray for those in authority. Ever seen or heard of the difference groups available to pray for those in leadership? Here is one example you can check out (https://www.presidentialprayerteam.org/) and that throughout the various leaders in my lifetime I have stayed subscribed to their emails because it is important to pray for those who are in leadership and authority over us! When I did a search for prayer groups for praying for leadership I was also able to find these references too:
So before reading this post did you already realize the importance of leadership? Before reading this post did you already realize the importance of praying for those in authority over you and those in leadership in general? Are you ready to get started or dig deeper now? Are you ready to pray for leaders before you walk into that meeting room? Are you ready to pray for leaders before you get to work? Are you ready to pray for leaders before you get to church? Are you ready to pray for leadership before you get out of bed in the morning? Are you ready to pray for leadership before you start your day? Will you choose to go beyond knowing to praying?
‘Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. ‘
Are you someone who complains about leadership or are you praying to God for them?
When it comes to the different leaders in your life does their specific focus area make a difference on your answer to the first question?
Do you complain about or pray for national politicians?
Do you complain about or pray for corporate managers?
Do you complain about or pray for bureaucrats at every level of government?
Do you complain about or pray for church leaders?
Are you praying for them because you know that good governance brings about peace and stability?
Are you praying for them because you know that with the peace and stability the gospel will be able to continue to spread?
Are you focusing your energy on things that matter or not?
Are you focusing your energy on bickering about politics, wars, bickering, and conflicts?
Are you focusing your energy on things that matter like sharing Christ and His Kingdom?
We may not agree with the politicians but we can decide to see things as they are with the kingship of Jesus where in that kingdom is grace and forgiveness!
Let’s make the choice to focus on God’s will and God’s way, they may not fully be seen yet but it is better this than focusing on the temporary and things that don’t and won’t last or matter.
As we learn from God’s Word, political power and any authority can be useful and helpful to the building of the kingdom of God if and when it comes along with providing peace and stability!
When we find we have peace and stability we are then able to focus on what matters most.
So today when your politicians come to mind, pray for them.
So today when your corporate leaders come to mind, pray for them.
So today when your church or religious leaders come to mind, pray for them.
When you pray for them, pray that under their leadership and authority there will be peace that will allow for you to focus on what really matters!
When you pray for them, pray that under their leadership and authority God’s Good News will be able to spread!
DISCUSSION TOPICS FROM TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL:
How do you usually think and talk about your political, corporate, and religious leaders?
Take some time now to pray for them and for the cause of Christ to spread.
QUOTE(S) FROM TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL:
“It is impossible to rightly govern the world without God and the Bible.”
Today’s devotional had an author but in my desire to link to the quote and author I found many conflicting opinions on the origin and so no name is being given.
So where are you at today? Are you a leader or a follower? In reality we are all followers it is a matter of have we been given a position of leadership in some aspect of life. So are you praying for those in authority over you? Are you seeking wisdom on what to do and how to proceed? Are you needing direction and help? Are you needing hope and joy? 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 using visuals? Are you using a manual? Are you interpreting it right? Is there anything that might be distorting your view? Is there anything that might be putting things off course? Ever heard stories about how people were off track by a fraction of a fraction at the beginning but the further along they got the more off track they ended up? So how do you know if you are doing it right?
‘“You shall not make for yourself a carved image—any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth; you shall not bow down to them nor serve them. For I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children to the third and fourth generations of those who hate Me, but showing mercy to thousands, to those who love Me and keep My commandments.’
Have you ever considered how pictures have formed or distorted your views? What comes to mind when you think of the devil? Is it a little guy in a red suit with a forked tail and pitch fork? What comes to mind when you think of God? Is it an old guy with a white beard and a robe?
What has formed your view of God?
Do you allow art like images, statues, paintings, and other things to represent God?
Do you realize the impact of allowing this to happen?
Do you realize that God is so incredible that it is impossible for man’s abilities to represent the fullness and greatness of God?
How do you know what is right?
How do you know where to draw the line?
How do you know what is good enough to use to help others hear or learn about Jesus?
How do you know what art is good enough to depict the reality of Jesus’s life events?
Would you say you draw the line when it replaces the wonder and awe of God from His infinite greatness?
Would you say you draw the line when it limits God from His infinite greatness?
DISCUSSION TOPICS FROM TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL:
What are some depictions of God you’ve seen in popular culture?
In what ways do they accurately represent God, and in what ways do they distort our views of Him?
So where are you at today? Are you pursuing the truth? Are you able to determine the difference between right and wrong? Are your views accurate or are they being distorted by the world? Are you ready to turn to God and receive His gift of grace through Jesus? Is today your day to reset and get back on track? Is today the day you decide to start the journey to get back on track? 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 see the needs around you? Do you see the impact you can make on their lives? Do you see what your role in filling the needs could be? Do you see what your purpose in meeting the needs can be? Who will you serve today?
Do you see the need of orphans? Do you see the need of widows? Do you see the need of the homeless? Do you see the need of kids? Do you see the need of youth? Do you see the need of women? Do you see the need of men? Do you see the need of the incarcerated? Do you see the need of the imprisoned? Do you see the need of your neighbors? Do you see the need of your community? Do you see the need of the schools? Do you see the need of the students? Do you see the need at work? Do you see the need at home? Do you see the need on your team? Do you see some other need? Who will you serve today?
Will you see a need and fill it? Will you see someone in need and serve them? Who will you serve today?
‘And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’’
So do you see a need to fill? Do you have a need to be filled? Could today be the day that your need could be filled by inviting Jesus into your heart and 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?
If someone were watching you, what would they see? If someone were learning from you, what would they discover? If someone were following you, where would they end up? Are you being a good role model? Are you setting a good example? What would others learn from observing you?
Are you teaching them how to serve? Are you teaching them how to love? Are you teaching them how to live? Are you teaching them how to lead? Are you giving them a good example of a servant leader? Are you teaching them how to follow Jesus? Are you teaching them how to trust Jesus? Are you teaching them how to hope with Jesus? Are you teaching them how to have a relationship with Jesus? Are you leading by example?
““Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to sin, it would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were drowned in the depth of the sea.”
How are you living your life when it comes to those God brings across your past?
How are you living your life when it comes to the outcasts and the oppressed?
Are you overflowing in the love of God that is and has been poured into you?
Are you able to overflow in tenderness and kindness?
Are you able to stand up for those who can’t standup for themselves?
Are you able to stand up against those who are hurting or holding them back?
Are you able to take a stand against the proud in order to protect the powerless?
Are you able to stand firm in order to support the poor?
Are you more focused on receiving than giving?
Are you more focused on receiving Jesus’ promises than living a life that is aligned with His commandments and warnings?
Will you be someone who overflows the love, the abundant ness, the peace, and the joy of God into the lives of others?
Will you be someone who protects against those who mislead, wound, or take advantage of helpless people?
Will you be someone who protects the children in alignment with God’s righteousness and fierce justice instead of having to receive it and deal with it for having mislead, wounded, or taken advantage of the children?
Don’t be found to be an abuser who would be better off drowned in the ocean!
Turn to Jesus! Ask Him to help you to get into alignment with Him and to forgive and help you be born again!
Are you in a position of power? Then you need to heed Jesus’ warning!
When you encounter children, poor people, displaced people, employees who serve under you, and anyone else you have authority over, you need to handle it as a sacred trust from God!
Remember we report to God and He is the final judge!
We will have to give Him an answer for our attitudes!
We will have to give Him an answer for our behavior!
So don’t ignore them!
Don’t use them for selfish gain!
Don’t make jokes at their expense!
Don’t take them for granted!
Let’s listen and walk in obedience to God’s instruction!
Let’s decide and choose walk out our lives in relationship with Jesus!
DISCUSSION TOPICS FROM TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL:
Who are the people in your life who are “little ones”?
What are some specific things you need to change to value them more highly?
QUOTE(S) FROM TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL:
”If Christ lives in us, controlling our personalities, we will leave glorious marks on the lives we touch. Not because of our lovely character, but because of His.”
— Eugenia Price
So are you ready to lead by example? Are you ready to leave a legacy? Are you ready to make a difference in the lives God brings your way? Are you ready to make a difference? 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?
God uses all things to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose.
‘Now Stephen, a man full of God’s grace and power, performed great wonders and signs among the people. Opposition arose, however, from members of the Synagogue of the Freedmen (as it was called)—Jews of Cyrene and Alexandria as well as the provinces of Cilicia and Asia—who began to argue with Stephen. But they could not stand up against the wisdom the Spirit gave him as he spoke. Then they secretly persuaded some men to say, “We have heard Stephen speak blasphemous words against Moses and against God.” So they stirred up the people and the elders and the teachers of the law. They seized Stephen and brought him before the Sanhedrin. They produced false witnesses, who testified, “This fellow never stops speaking against this holy place and against the law. For we have heard him say that this Jesus of Nazareth will destroy this place and change the customs Moses handed down to us.” All who were sitting in the Sanhedrin looked intently at Stephen, and they saw that his face was like the face of an angel.’
Accused Stephen of something that sounded true but wasn’t. So they had to manipulate the situation to get Stephen to stop talking about Jesus.
When questioned about these accusations, Stephen preaches one of the longest sermons captured in the Bible.
‘Then the high priest asked Stephen, “Are these charges true?” To this he replied: “Brothers and fathers, listen to me! The God of glory appeared to our father Abraham while he was still in Mesopotamia, before he lived in Harran. ‘Leave your country and your people,’ God said, ‘and go to the land I will show you.’ “So he left the land of the Chaldeans and settled in Harran. After the death of his father, God sent him to this land where you are now living. He gave him no inheritance here, not even enough ground to set his foot on. But God promised him that he and his descendants after him would possess the land, even though at that time Abraham had no child. God spoke to him in this way: ‘For four hundred years your descendants will be strangers in a country not their own, and they will be enslaved and mistreated. But I will punish the nation they serve as slaves,’ God said, ‘and afterward they will come out of that country and worship me in this place.’ Then he gave Abraham the covenant of circumcision. And Abraham became the father of Isaac and circumcised him eight days after his birth. Later Isaac became the father of Jacob, and Jacob became the father of the twelve patriarchs. “Because the patriarchs were jealous of Joseph, they sold him as a slave into Egypt. But God was with him and rescued him from all his troubles. He gave Joseph wisdom and enabled him to gain the goodwill of Pharaoh king of Egypt. So Pharaoh made him ruler over Egypt and all his palace. “Then a famine struck all Egypt and Canaan, bringing great suffering, and our ancestors could not find food. When Jacob heard that there was grain in Egypt, he sent our forefathers on their first visit. On their second visit, Joseph told his brothers who he was, and Pharaoh learned about Joseph’s family. After this, Joseph sent for his father Jacob and his whole family, seventy-five in all. Then Jacob went down to Egypt, where he and our ancestors died. Their bodies were brought back to Shechem and placed in the tomb that Abraham had bought from the sons of Hamor at Shechem for a certain sum of money. “As the time drew near for God to fulfill his promise to Abraham, the number of our people in Egypt had greatly increased. Then ‘a new king, to whom Joseph meant nothing, came to power in Egypt.’ He dealt treacherously with our people and oppressed our ancestors by forcing them to throw out their newborn babies so that they would die. “At that time Moses was born, and he was no ordinary child. For three months he was cared for by his family. When he was placed outside, Pharaoh’s daughter took him and brought him up as her own son. Moses was educated in all the wisdom of the Egyptians and was powerful in speech and action. “When Moses was forty years old, he decided to visit his own people, the Israelites. He saw one of them being mistreated by an Egyptian, so he went to his defense and avenged him by killing the Egyptian. Moses thought that his own people would realize that God was using him to rescue them, but they did not. The next day Moses came upon two Israelites who were fighting. He tried to reconcile them by saying, ‘Men, you are brothers; why do you want to hurt each other?’ “But the man who was mistreating the other pushed Moses aside and said, ‘Who made you ruler and judge over us? Are you thinking of killing me as you killed the Egyptian yesterday?’ When Moses heard this, he fled to Midian, where he settled as a foreigner and had two sons. “After forty years had passed, an angel appeared to Moses in the flames of a burning bush in the desert near Mount Sinai. When he saw this, he was amazed at the sight. As he went over to get a closer look, he heard the Lord say: ‘I am the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.’ Moses trembled with fear and did not dare to look. “Then the Lord said to him, ‘Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground. I have indeed seen the oppression of my people in Egypt. I have heard their groaning and have come down to set them free. Now come, I will send you back to Egypt.’ “This is the same Moses they had rejected with the words, ‘Who made you ruler and judge?’ He was sent to be their ruler and deliverer by God himself, through the angel who appeared to him in the bush. He led them out of Egypt and performed wonders and signs in Egypt, at the Red Sea and for forty years in the wilderness. “This is the Moses who told the Israelites, ‘God will raise up for you a prophet like me from your own people.’ He was in the assembly in the wilderness, with the angel who spoke to him on Mount Sinai, and with our ancestors; and he received living words to pass on to us. “But our ancestors refused to obey him. Instead, they rejected him and in their hearts turned back to Egypt. They told Aaron, ‘Make us gods who will go before us. As for this fellow Moses who led us out of Egypt—we don’t know what has happened to him!’ That was the time they made an idol in the form of a calf. They brought sacrifices to it and reveled in what their own hands had made. But God turned away from them and gave them over to the worship of the sun, moon and stars. This agrees with what is written in the book of the prophets: “ ‘Did you bring me sacrifices and offerings forty years in the wilderness, people of Israel? You have taken up the tabernacle of Molek and the star of your god Rephan, the idols you made to worship. Therefore I will send you into exile’ beyond Babylon. “Our ancestors had the tabernacle of the covenant law with them in the wilderness. It had been made as God directed Moses, according to the pattern he had seen. After receiving the tabernacle, our ancestors under Joshua brought it with them when they took the land from the nations God drove out before them. It remained in the land until the time of David, who enjoyed God’s favor and asked that he might provide a dwelling place for the God of Jacob. But it was Solomon who built a house for him. “However, the Most High does not live in houses made by human hands. As the prophet says: “ ‘Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool. What kind of house will you build for me? says the Lord. Or where will my resting place be? Has not my hand made all these things?’ “You stiff-necked people! Your hearts and ears are still uncircumcised. You are just like your ancestors: You always resist the Holy Spirit! Was there ever a prophet your ancestors did not persecute? They even killed those who predicted the coming of the Righteous One. And now you have betrayed and murdered him— you who have received the law that was given through angels but have not obeyed it.” ‘
One Central Theme – God was leading His people but it hadn’t nothing to do with person or time.
God was with them. The temple was a temporary place – the real inhabitation came in the person of Jesus Christ. Not to tear it down but to fulfill the resident within Him.
Can’t say you love God’s temple but don’t love God’s son.
He was sharing truth.
They were concerned with their own tradition than with God.
We are all susceptible with getting fixating on the wrong thing.
Focusing on something rather than God’s plans and purpose.
For some it is work, but is your job the point of the story? No
For some it is politics, but is politics the point fo the story? No
Not family either! It is Jesus Christ!
The first Christian martyr.
Not much we know about Stephen but here are 4 things we know
He lived with integrity!
When we live a life of integrity we are living a life God can use it!
He was willing to serve!
He served the widows. He served food! He was equipped to preach and serve.
This is something God can use when we say Yes to when God calls.
It is easier to steer a car that is moving, so we have to get moving and allow God to direct our path.
He knew the scripture and he was full of faith in the Holy Spirit.
quoted from 5 books of the Bible
all from his knowledge and understood
we need to study our Bible.
we need to be ready for the day when we are called to use it
we need to be led by the Holy Spirit too
we need to walk in humility and submission to Him
lay down our pride and preconceived notions
we come and worship Jesus, submitting ourselves to them with a humble life
John 16 says: ‘But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come. ‘ — John 16:13
Walk in love!
he preached from the heart, a heart and spirit of love
the devil tries to get people to speak truth but with a heart of hatred rather than love, we need God’s love in our hearts so we can do it with the right motive, filled with the Spirit
We don’t have to complete the story, we just have to be obedient
From his death, it caused
‘And Saul approved of their killing him. On that day a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. Godly men buried Stephen and mourned deeply for him. But Saul began to destroy the church. Going from house to house, he dragged off both men and women and put them in prison. ‘
What is it that motivates you? What is it that keeps you on track? What is it that gives you direction? What is it that gives you the force to move forward or move on? What is it that is giving you momentum? What is it that keeps you aligned? What is it that keeps you focused? What is your source? What is it that keeps you loyal? What is it that keeps you going, no matter what?
Are you focused on God and His will and plans? Are you focused on the will of man and their selfish ambitions? Are you focused on God’s Word? Are you focused on the worlds instant gratification and greed? Are you focused on having your tank filled by God and then overflowing into the lives of others? Are you focused on getting as much as you can as quickly as you can? Are you more focused on the influx or the outflux in your life? Are you more interested in what you can get than what you can give?
Do you realize that what you allow into your heart makes a difference? Do you realize that how you fill up your life tank makes a difference? It can energize and motivate you or it can consume and corrode you. It is important in life to choose wisely! It is important in life to be blessed and be generous! It is more important in life to be a giver than a taker!
MEMORY VERSE OF THE DAY: Matthew 6:24 (You Cannot Serve God and Riches)
‘“No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.’
POINTS FROM THE DEVOTIONAL:
What is your one thing?
If you were given the opportunity to have 1 thing but it can be anything, what would you choose?
There are so many things competing for your attention, what will you choose?
There are so many things competing for your affection, what will you choose?
There are so many things competing for your heart, so what will you choose to rule over or fill your heart?
What are they offering you to try and convince you to choose them?
What are they tempting you with to try and convince you to choose them?
What do they have to offer that might capture your attention, if only for a moment?
Are they offering you pleasure?
Are they offering you thrills?
Are they offering you status?
Are they offering you the ability to impress?
Are they offering you the opportunity to escape?
But is what they are offering you real? Is what they are offering you going to last?
Where are you hearing such offers?
Is it in the office? Is it on TV? Is it through advertising? Is it on the billboard on that drive? Is it through friends? …
Are they trying to fulfill a dream that you have?
But who will you trust? Who will you go to? Who will you listen to? Who has what you really need?
Are you buying what they are selling?
Will they convince you to accept their offer or temptation?
Remember, you only can choose one thing! Like today’s verse tells us!
‘“No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.’ — Matthew 6:24
Consider these verses too…
Romans 6:16 – ‘ Do you not know that if you continually surrender yourselves to anyone to do his will, you are the slaves of him whom you obey, whether that be to sin, which leads to death, or to obedience which leads to righteousness (right doing and right standing with God)?’
2 Peter 2:19 – ‘ They promise them liberty, when they themselves are the slaves of depravity and defilement–for by whatever anyone is made inferior or worse or is overcome, to that [person or thing] he is enslaved.’
In the busy things of life, in the noises that come along with it, will you stop and find a quiet place where you can listen for and hear that still quiet voice that will speak truth and life in love to you from the Holy Spirit?
Will you set time aside to turn to and listen to the one who will will speak the truth of who Jesus is and what God is offering you?
John 14:6 shares: ‘ Jesus said to him, I am the Way and the Truth and the Life; no one comes to the Father except by (through) Me.’
Will you choose God and accept His plan for you that gives you hope and a future?
Will you choose God and accept Jesus who came that you can have the adventure of v life and life more abundantly or to the full?
So what will you allow to fill your tank? your life? your box?
DISCUSSION TOPICS FROM TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL:
Identify some of the competing voices and their promises in your life.
TV – shows and ads
Radio – shows and ads
Internet – sites, stores, ads
Video games and ads
I have had to turn on ad blockers and even uninstall games because of the types of ads they play
I have had to turn to DVR shows so that I can skip ads or parts of shows
What have you had in your box in the past year or so? What are you putting in your box now?
God has been so critical to me over the past year to help me through some rough and tough times
He helped me keep from putting anger and frustration, bitterness and unforgiveness into my heart or allowing bitterness to take root
So what is it or who is it that you will serve? How will that impact your worship? How will that impact the rest of your life?
Where are you at today? Are you looking for guidance? Are you wondering where to turn? Are you at the end of your rope and needing help? Are you ready for some help? Are you ready to turn to God and ask? seek? knock? Let’s pray together:
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?
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?
How do you know how to live your life? Was it by watching people? Was it by listening to people? Was it by choosing the things you liked and discarding the ones that you don’t? Is it clear or fuzzy? Is it definite or subjective? Is it consistent or is it unstable? Are there rules? Are there guidelines? Are there directions? Are there instructions? Is there a manual? Is there a model to follow? Is there a set of guidelines?
How do you know the way you should live your life? If you know the way you should live your life then are you living it? Is it working for you?
What if you had a role model and they were a powerful leader and they told you that you need to be humble to live the way you are supposed to? What if you had a role model and they told you that you need to serve others to live the way you are supposed to? What if your role model told you that you need to forgive to live the way you are supposed to? What if your role model told you that the key to living life the way you are supposed to is love? Will you love God and love people if that is what it takes to live life the way you should? What if you learned the real definition of love, that is unconditional love, and that you needed to live your life in accordance to that? Let’s take a look at a few verses and take hold of what love is:
‘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. ‘
So what if all you needed to do was be like love? You need to live your life towards being able to taking the information above and changing the word love with your name? Would you be up for living your life the way you should? Would you be willing to live a life that isn’t lead or controlled by fear but instead choosing a life that is lead with power and of love and of a sound mind? Do you have something to turn to for instruction? Do you have someone to turn to for guidance? Do you have somewhere to go for support?
So how will you choose to live your life? Will it be the way you should? Do you have an example to help you know how you should? Why not consider today’s quote to help you? WWJD – What Would Jesus Do?
Where are you at today? Are you looking for guidance? Are you wondering where to turn? Are you at the end of your rope and needing help? Are you ready for some help? Are you ready to turn to God and ask? seek? knock? Let’s pray together.
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?
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 someone who learns by hearing or listening? Are you an aural or auditory learner? Do you respond well to lectures, speeches, talks, music? Do you focus on words that are spoken and look to find meaning from them and the patterns used? Do you enjoy group discussions? Do you prefer audiobooks, podcasts, radio programs to books, newspapers, and magazines?
Are you someone who learns by seeing or watching? Are you a visual or spatial learner? Do you respond well to pictures, patterns, graphs, and charts? Do you prefer watching the movie than reading the book? Do you do a lot of writing, doodling, or coloring when you are learning? Do you have a good memory for things you have seen? Are you someone who likes to visualize or make a visualization to help you understand what is being taught?
Are you someone who learns by instruction, written or spoken? Are you a verbal or linguistic learner? Do you learn new words easily? Do you speak multiple languages? Are you an avid reader and writer? Do you prefer word problems over solving mathematical equations? Do you have a good memory for quotes and proverbs? Are you good as summarizing or making something complex simple so that it can be easily understood?
Are you someone who is good with numbers? Are you a logical or mathematical learner? Do you like reason and logic to come with the information you are given? Do you like to analyze problems and solve for the best possible outcome? Do you like to come up with your own patterns and theories based on what you observe? Do you like to organize and classify? Do you like the technology or scientific space like physics, chemistry, math, and technology?
Are you someone who is learns by doing or using your body? Are you a physical or kinesthetic learner? Do you like to do hands on activities, build models, role play or game play to learn? Do you like to use your hands and touch things while you learn? Do you like to be in the field or location to get context and be able to get your hands on things? Do you like to role play and act out the situations? Do you enjoy sports?
Are you someone who learns from others? Are you a social or interpersonal learner? Do you like to hangout with people? Do you like to be part of study groups or collaborative activities? Do you prefer to work in a group and share your opinions and ideas? Are you expressive and good at understanding facial expressions and body language? Are you a good arbitrator and able to resolve issues?
Are you someone who prefers to learn alone? Are you a intrapersonal or solitary learner? Do you prefer to work alone? Do you like to be able to spend a lot of time alone studying? Are you self-motivated? Are you an independent? Do you like or prefer a quiet environment to work in? Are you self-aware? Do you journal, take notes, and capture your thoughts in order to improve?
Are you someone who learns best outdoors? Are you a naturalistic learner? Do you prefer learning as an experience? Do you like to be able to relate to things in nature? Do you like to go on field trips? Do you like to collect samples or material? Do you like to categorize and classify? Do you prefer subjects like biology, zoology, and botany? Do you like getting your hands dirty? Do you notice changes in your surroundings and environment?
‘You call Me Teacher and Lord, and you say well, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you. ‘
POINTS FROM THE DEVOTIONAL:
How do you learn when you feel unsettled?
How do you respond when things get uncomfortable?
How do you react when things feel different?
How do you learn when there seems to be intense pressure?
Do it matter if the intensity if positive or negative?
What if you received a welcome so much bigger or greater than you had ever seen or experienced?
What if the week was filled with arguments?
What if the week was filled with miracles?
What if the week was filled with debates?
What if the week was filled with challenges?
What if the week was filled a mixture or combination of all of these?
How would you feel getting together as a group to have a meal together after such a week?
How would you respond after hearing that your leader was going to be arrested and killed?
How would you be not knowing the specific day or timing?
How would you respond if your leader decided it was time to serve you, to take the humble position of washing your feet?
Would you be surprised? Would you be amazed? Would you accept it? Would you resist it?
Imagine the humility and the purpose of such an act!
Imagine the lesson to be learned from such an act of servant leadership!
Would you accept the lesson? Would you pick up the example and follow after it?
No matter your title or your stature, are you ready to humble yourself and serve those who have been put into your care?
Will you receive the example and serve one another?
Who would have had to be the example for you to accept it and then live it?
Don’t think that you are too good to be able to serve others!
Don’t think that you are too powerful or too important to be able to serve others!
Will you both receive the forgiveness Jesus is offering as well as then give it to others?
Will you forgive them even if they abandon you?
Will you forgive them even if they set you up?
Will you forgive them even if they lied or deceived you?
So what type of a learner are you? Are you putting yourself in the right places in order to learn from good examples? Are you going places to find examples to follow?
Where are you at today? Are you looking for guidance? Are you wondering where to turn? Are you at the end of your rope and needing help? Are you ready for some help? Are you ready to turn to God and ask? seek? knock? Let’s pray together.
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?
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?
It is an interesting question and depending on the person you ask you will get different answers. Some run for leadership positions out of pride with a desire for power. Some take on leadership positions out of humility with a desire to serve. Some find themselves in positions of leadership because of their servants hearts and humble living. How about you? Do you do what you do in order to serve others? Do you do what you do in order to gain power over others?
The ways of the world and the ways of God seem to run into conflicts because of these differing views. So are you leading with a vision of where you are going that will cause others to want to follow you? Are you leading with a vision to serve those who are following you or trying use your position to control them? Where is your heart at? What is your motivation? What is it that you really want? Have you been called to lead? If so then will you accept the calling and do it God’s way?
Are you looking for someone who is a charismatic leader?
Are you looking for someone who is a genius who brings their helpers?
Are you looking for someone who is looking to be the center of attention?
Are you looking for someone who demands to be the center of attention?
Are you looking for someone who is looking to receive the praise?
Are you looking for someone who looks down at the other employees? Looks to them like helpers who deserve no recognition?
Are you looking for someone who is a humble visionary?
Are you looking for someone who can lead with passion?
Are you looking for someone who will share the recognition and the praise?
Are you looking for someone who will give credit to everyone and anyone?
Are they looking for someone from a world or a Jesus leadership strategy?
As you see in today’s verse of the day, Jesus’ leadership strategy goes against the natural and normal tendency of man and tells those who want to lead that they need to serve!
Jesus went beyond just telling them but rather He was a living example to those who were with Him. Remember how He took a towel and started going around the table to wash the feet of the people at the table?
Let’s read the full paragraph:
‘And when the ten heard it, they were greatly displeased with the two brothers. But Jesus called them to Himself and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and those who are great exercise authority over them. Yet it shall not be so among you; but whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant. And whoever desires to be first among you, let him be your slave— just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.”’ — Matthew 20:24-28
If we want to lead then we need to be willing to serve and do the lowest of jobs in order to serve others. Jesus’ washing of the feet of the men at the table would have taken Jesus who was the top and had him doing the job of the lowest servant in a home.
So are you willing to serve your family in order to lead them well?
Are you willing to serve your employees in order to lead them well?
Will you take time to do the most humble tasks?
Will you make time to engage the people and care enough to ask about them and their families?
Will you make time to go out and be with the people where they are at and help rather than pile on?
Don’t be too busy to be able to serve and connect with people or you will find yourself going for a walk by yourself and when you get to the top you will find it quite lonely because you forgot to bring others with you.
DISCUSSION TOPICS FROM TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL:
What impact do “geniuses with a thousand helpers” have on those under them?
Feel undervalue
Feel disconnected
Feel temporary
What impact do “humble visionaries” have on people? What are two things you can do today to be a servant to those around you?
Feel connected
Feel valued
Will follow and all get to have the mountain top experiences together!
Reach out and connect with them – speaking the truth in love and chipping in to help them right where they are at.
Where are you at today? Are you looking for guidance? Are you wondering where to turn? Are you at the end of your rope and needing help? Are you ready for some help? Are you ready to turn to God and ask? seek? knock? Let’s pray together.
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?
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?
What do you think it takes to be a good leader? How do you think you need to live in order to be a good leader?
Are you above reproach? Are you faithful to your wife? Are you temperate? Are you self-controlled? Are you respectable? Are you hospitable? Are you able to teach? Are you a heavy drinker or violent? These both could disqualify you. Are you gentle? Are you peaceable? Are you free from the love of money? Are you able to manage your own home well? Are you able to keep you children under control and with respect? Are you doing what is right in the eyes of the Lord?
Do you realize that we need to be servant leaders following Jesus’ example?
Do you want to be a leader? Do you want to be a good leader? Do you have a vision and a mission that will help lead people in the right direction? Do you have a vision and a mission that people will want to follow?
August is in the rearview mirror and clearly visible. Life goes so fast are you prepared for what is ahead? Do you have clarity of vision? Do you have clarity of purpose? Do you realize the lessons you have gone through in the past, they say hindsight is 2020 after all. Will you take those lessons and apply them as you go forward? Will you lead?
The 49 week challenge has 6 days in which to notice a promise to trust, a command to obey, a truth to embrace, a warning to heed, or an encouragement to rest in and 1 day to reflect on what you’re learning and to share it with others, to think back over the week’s readings, to see connections between the various passages of the week. Each day we have time to talk to God and contemplate what is being said through His Word, and even more so on the 7th day.
How interested are you in what will happen today? How interested are you in what will be required of you today? How interested are you in what decisions you will need to make today? How interested are you in hearing from God today? How interested are you in accomplishing what God is calling you to do today? What if it were life and death decision? What if it were everlasting life and everlasting death decision? What if the decision that you make today will determine how you will spend the rest of eternity? Would it make a difference?
If you are interested in getting together or sharing the information together, please let me know through the comment section below, through email, or even through text messages.
Today’s reading fromGOD’S WORD – THE BIBLEcomes to us from:
‘Here is a trustworthy saying: Whoever aspires to be an overseer desires a noble task. Now the overseer is to be above reproach, faithful to his wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him, and he must do so in a manner worthy of full respect. (If anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God’s church?) He must not be a recent convert, or he may become conceited and fall under the same judgment as the devil. He must also have a good reputation with outsiders, so that he will not fall into disgrace and into the devil’s trap. In the same way, deacons are to be worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain. They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience. They must first be tested; and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons. In the same way, the women are to be worthy of respect, not malicious talkers but temperate and trustworthy in everything. A deacon must be faithful to his wife and must manage his children and his household well. Those who have served well gain an excellent standing and great assurance in their faith in Christ Jesus. Although I hope to come to you soon, I am writing you these instructions so that, if I am delayed, you will know how people ought to conduct themselves in God’s household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth. Beyond all question, the mystery from which true godliness springs is great: He appeared in the flesh, was vindicated by the Spirit, was seen by angels, was preached among the nations, was believed on in the world, was taken up in glory.’ — 1 Timothy 3:1-16
‘I will give thanks to you, Lord , with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds. I will be glad and rejoice in you; I will sing the praises of your name, O Most High. My enemies turn back; they stumble and perish before you. For you have upheld my right and my cause, sitting enthroned as the righteous judge. You have rebuked the nations and destroyed the wicked; you have blotted out their name for ever and ever. Endless ruin has overtaken my enemies, you have uprooted their cities; even the memory of them has perished. The Lord reigns forever; he has established his throne for judgment. He rules the world in righteousness and judges the peoples with equity. The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. Those who know your name trust in you, for you, Lord , have never forsaken those who seek you. Sing the praises of the Lord , enthroned in Zion; proclaim among the nations what he has done. For he who avenges blood remembers; he does not ignore the cries of the afflicted. Lord , see how my enemies persecute me! Have mercy and lift me up from the gates of death, that I may declare your praises in the gates of Daughter Zion, and there rejoice in your salvation. The nations have fallen into the pit they have dug; their feet are caught in the net they have hidden. The Lord is known by his acts of justice; the wicked are ensnared by the work of their hands. The wicked go down to the realm of the dead, all the nations that forget God. But God will never forget the needy; the hope of the afflicted will never perish. Arise, Lord , do not let mortals triumph; let the nations be judged in your presence. Strike them with terror, Lord ; let the nations know they are only mortal.’ — Psalms 9:1-20
‘The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron. They forbid people to marry and order them to abstain from certain foods, which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and who know the truth. For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, because it is consecrated by the word of God and prayer. If you point these things out to the brothers and sisters, you will be a good minister of Christ Jesus, nourished on the truths of the faith and of the good teaching that you have followed. Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself to be godly. For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. This is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance. That is why we labor and strive, because we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all people, and especially of those who believe. Command and teach these things. Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity. Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching. Do not neglect your gift, which was given you through prophecy when the body of elders laid their hands on you. Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress. Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.’ — 1 Timothy 4:1-16
‘A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold. Rich and poor have this in common: The Lord is the Maker of them all. The prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and pay the penalty. Humility is the fear of the Lord ; its wages are riches and honor and life. In the paths of the wicked are snares and pitfalls, but those who would preserve their life stay far from them. Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it. The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender. Whoever sows injustice reaps calamity, and the rod they wield in fury will be broken. The generous will themselves be blessed, for they share their food with the poor. Drive out the mocker, and out goes strife; quarrels and insults are ended. One who loves a pure heart and who speaks with grace will have the king for a friend. The eyes of the Lord keep watch over knowledge, but he frustrates the words of the unfaithful. The sluggard says, “There’s a lion outside! I’ll be killed in the public square!” The mouth of an adulterous woman is a deep pit; a man who is under the Lord ’s wrath falls into it. Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline will drive it far away. One who oppresses the poor to increase his wealth and one who gives gifts to the rich—both come to poverty. Pay attention and turn your ear to the sayings of the wise; apply your heart to what I teach, for it is pleasing when you keep them in your heart and have all of them ready on your lips. So that your trust may be in the Lord , I teach you today, even you. Have I not written thirty sayings for you, sayings of counsel and knowledge, teaching you to be honest and to speak the truth, so that you bring back truthful reports to those you serve? Do not exploit the poor because they are poor and do not crush the needy in court, for the Lord will take up their case and will exact life for life. Do not make friends with a hot-tempered person, do not associate with one easily angered, or you may learn their ways and get yourself ensnared. Do not be one who shakes hands in pledge or puts up security for debts; if you lack the means to pay, your very bed will be snatched from under you. Do not move an ancient boundary stone set up by your ancestors. Do you see someone skilled in their work? They will serve before kings; they will not serve before officials of low rank.’ — Proverbs 22:1-29
‘Then all the people of Judah took Uzziah, who was sixteen years old, and made him king in place of his father Amaziah. He was the one who rebuilt Elath and restored it to Judah after Amaziah rested with his ancestors. Uzziah was sixteen years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem fifty-two years. His mother’s name was Jekoliah; she was from Jerusalem. He did what was right in the eyes of the Lord , just as his father Amaziah had done. He sought God during the days of Zechariah, who instructed him in the fear of God. As long as he sought the Lord , God gave him success. He went to war against the Philistines and broke down the walls of Gath, Jabneh and Ashdod. He then rebuilt towns near Ashdod and elsewhere among the Philistines. God helped him against the Philistines and against the Arabs who lived in Gur Baal and against the Meunites. The Ammonites brought tribute to Uzziah, and his fame spread as far as the border of Egypt, because he had become very powerful. Uzziah built towers in Jerusalem at the Corner Gate, at the Valley Gate and at the angle of the wall, and he fortified them. He also built towers in the wilderness and dug many cisterns, because he had much livestock in the foothills and in the plain. He had people working his fields and vineyards in the hills and in the fertile lands, for he loved the soil. Uzziah had a well-trained army, ready to go out by divisions according to their numbers as mustered by Jeiel the secretary and Maaseiah the officer under the direction of Hananiah, one of the royal officials. The total number of family leaders over the fighting men was 2,600. Under their command was an army of 307,500 men trained for war, a powerful force to support the king against his enemies. Uzziah provided shields, spears, helmets, coats of armor, bows and slingstones for the entire army. In Jerusalem he made devices invented for use on the towers and on the corner defenses so that soldiers could shoot arrows and hurl large stones from the walls. His fame spread far and wide, for he was greatly helped until he became powerful. But after Uzziah became powerful, his pride led to his downfall. He was unfaithful to the Lord his God, and entered the temple of the Lord to burn incense on the altar of incense. Azariah the priest with eighty other courageous priests of the Lord followed him in. They confronted King Uzziah and said, “It is not right for you, Uzziah, to burn incense to the Lord . That is for the priests, the descendants of Aaron, who have been consecrated to burn incense. Leave the sanctuary, for you have been unfaithful; and you will not be honored by the Lord God.” Uzziah, who had a censer in his hand ready to burn incense, became angry. While he was raging at the priests in their presence before the incense altar in the Lord ’s temple, leprosy broke out on his forehead. When Azariah the chief priest and all the other priests looked at him, they saw that he had leprosy on his forehead, so they hurried him out. Indeed, he himself was eager to leave, because the Lord had afflicted him. King Uzziah had leprosy until the day he died. He lived in a separate house —leprous, and banned from the temple of the Lord . Jotham his son had charge of the palace and governed the people of the land. The other events of Uzziah’s reign, from beginning to end, are recorded by the prophet Isaiah son of Amoz. Uzziah rested with his ancestors and was buried near them in a cemetery that belonged to the kings, for people said, “He had leprosy.” And Jotham his son succeeded him as king.’ — 2 Chronicles 26:1-23
As day 258 begins, I would hate to miss giving the opportunity to anyone who hasn’t received Jesus into their lives as their Lord and Savior an opportunity to make the decision today and the blessing to get to live out the rest of the year in that power and that truth and that hope.
If you would like to receive Jesus as your Lord and Savior, why not join me in this prayer?
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 living humbly? Are you living with a service attitude? Are you living in alignment with Jesus so that you are under His righteousness?
You matter to God! He can’t bless us when we are being disobedient. He can’t bless us when we are living life pridefully. He can’t bless us when we block or live a life that would block the blessing from flowing through us. So we need to turn to God humbly and be in relationship with Him and hence be in prayer and conversation with Him. When we turn to God and from our own selfishness it opened up the door for God to hear our prayers and heal our land.
Let’s consider the words from 1 Peter 3:12 which say “For the eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous (those who are upright and in right standing with God), and His ears are attentive to their prayer. But the face of the Lord is against those who practice evil [to oppose them, to frustrate, and defeat them]. [Ps. 34:12-16.]”
God is not absent! He sees everything and we will have to give an account to Him for the things we have done. The moral arc of the universe is long but it bends towards justice was something Matin Luther King said. Written into the world is righteousness. So let’s choose to live our lives in relationship with God. Let’s receive the gift of Jesus Christ so that we have His intercession before the Father. Let’s live humbly in this life, looking for ways to serve and bless others. Let’s pray which means to speak with God so that He can help us stay on the straight and narrow, pursuing what is right and staying close to Him.
Let’s choose the gift of grace through accepting Jesus into our hearts and our lives so that we can start living as God’s new creations pursuing His will and His way! Interested? Jump to the end of this article and pray with me. You can always come back to this part and continue today’s reading.
Hindsight is 2020. See how much clearer things look in the rear view mirror? What can we learn from it and through it? What can we improve and change because of it. How can we make things better as we move forward? How will these choices and decisions help make the future more clear?
With July in the rear view mirror, let’s share our takeaways from today’s reading! Did you catch and promises to trust? Did you catch any commands to obey? Did you catch any truths to embrace? Did you catch any warnings to heed? Did you catch any encouragement to rest in? What did you learn about God? What did you learn about yourself? What did you learn about the world? What verse stood out most to you today?
If you are interested in getting together or sharing the information together, please let me know through the comment section below, through email, or even through text messages.
Today’s reading from God’s Word – the Bible comes to us from:
‘I ask then: Did God reject his people? By no means! I am an Israelite myself, a descendant of Abraham, from the tribe of Benjamin. God did not reject his people, whom he foreknew. Don’t you know what Scripture says in the passage about Elijah—how he appealed to God against Israel: “Lord, they have killed your prophets and torn down your altars; I am the only one left, and they are trying to kill me” ? And what was God’s answer to him? “I have reserved for myself seven thousand who have not bowed the knee to Baal.” So too, at the present time there is a remnant chosen by grace. And if by grace, then it cannot be based on works; if it were, grace would no longer be grace. What then? What the people of Israel sought so earnestly they did not obtain. The elect among them did, but the others were hardened, as it is written: “God gave them a spirit of stupor, eyes that could not see and ears that could not hear, to this very day.” And David says: “May their table become a snare and a trap, a stumbling block and a retribution for them. May their eyes be darkened so they cannot see, and their backs be bent forever.” Again I ask: Did they stumble so as to fall beyond recovery? Not at all! Rather, because of their transgression, salvation has come to the Gentiles to make Israel envious. But if their transgression means riches for the world, and their loss means riches for the Gentiles, how much greater riches will their full inclusion bring! I am talking to you Gentiles. Inasmuch as I am the apostle to the Gentiles, I take pride in my ministry in the hope that I may somehow arouse my own people to envy and save some of them. For if their rejection brought reconciliation to the world, what will their acceptance be but life from the dead? If the part of the dough offered as firstfruits is holy, then the whole batch is holy; if the root is holy, so are the branches. If some of the branches have been broken off, and you, though a wild olive shoot, have been grafted in among the others and now share in the nourishing sap from the olive root, do not consider yourself to be superior to those other branches. If you do, consider this: You do not support the root, but the root supports you. You will say then, “Branches were broken off so that I could be grafted in.” Granted. But they were broken off because of unbelief, and you stand by faith. Do not be arrogant, but tremble. For if God did not spare the natural branches, he will not spare you either. Consider therefore the kindness and sternness of God: sternness to those who fell, but kindness to you, provided that you continue in his kindness. Otherwise, you also will be cut off. And if they do not persist in unbelief, they will be grafted in, for God is able to graft them in again. After all, if you were cut out of an olive tree that is wild by nature, and contrary to nature were grafted into a cultivated olive tree, how much more readily will these, the natural branches, be grafted into their own olive tree! I do not want you to be ignorant of this mystery, brothers and sisters, so that you may not be conceited: Israel has experienced a hardening in part until the full number of the Gentiles has come in, and in this way all Israel will be saved. As it is written: “The deliverer will come from Zion; he will turn godlessness away from Jacob. And this is my covenant with them when I take away their sins.” ‘ — Romans 11:1-27
Today’s reading then brings us related scripture from the Old Testament beginning with Deuteronomy 29:
‘These are the terms of the covenant the Lord commanded Moses to make with the Israelites in Moab, in addition to the covenant he had made with them at Horeb. Moses summoned all the Israelites and said to them: Your eyes have seen all that the Lord did in Egypt to Pharaoh, to all his officials and to all his land. With your own eyes you saw those great trials, those signs and great wonders. But to this day the Lord has not given you a mind that understands or eyes that see or ears that hear. Yet the Lord says, “During the forty years that I led you through the wilderness, your clothes did not wear out, nor did the sandals on your feet. You ate no bread and drank no wine or other fermented drink. I did this so that you might know that I am the Lord your God.” When you reached this place, Sihon king of Heshbon and Og king of Bashan came out to fight against us, but we defeated them. We took their land and gave it as an inheritance to the Reubenites, the Gadites and the half-tribe of Manasseh. Carefully follow the terms of this covenant, so that you may prosper in everything you do. All of you are standing today in the presence of the Lord your God—your leaders and chief men, your elders and officials, and all the other men of Israel, together with your children and your wives, and the foreigners living in your camps who chop your wood and carry your water. You are standing here in order to enter into a covenant with the Lord your God, a covenant the Lord is making with you this day and sealing with an oath, to confirm you this day as his people, that he may be your God as he promised you and as he swore to your fathers, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. I am making this covenant, with its oath, not only with you who are standing here with us today in the presence of the Lord our God but also with those who are not here today. You yourselves know how we lived in Egypt and how we passed through the countries on the way here. You saw among them their detestable images and idols of wood and stone, of silver and gold. Make sure there is no man or woman, clan or tribe among you today whose heart turns away from the Lord our God to go and worship the gods of those nations; make sure there is no root among you that produces such bitter poison. When such a person hears the words of this oath and they invoke a blessing on themselves, thinking, “I will be safe, even though I persist in going my own way,” they will bring disaster on the watered land as well as the dry. The Lord will never be willing to forgive them; his wrath and zeal will burn against them. All the curses written in this book will fall on them, and the Lord will blot out their names from under heaven. The Lord will single them out from all the tribes of Israel for disaster, according to all the curses of the covenant written in this Book of the Law. Your children who follow you in later generations and foreigners who come from distant lands will see the calamities that have fallen on the land and the diseases with which the Lord has afflicted it. The whole land will be a burning waste of salt and sulfur—nothing planted, nothing sprouting, no vegetation growing on it. It will be like the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, Admah and Zeboyim, which the Lord overthrew in fierce anger. All the nations will ask: “Why has the Lord done this to this land? Why this fierce, burning anger?” And the answer will be: “It is because this people abandoned the covenant of the Lord , the God of their ancestors, the covenant he made with them when he brought them out of Egypt. They went off and worshiped other gods and bowed down to them, gods they did not know, gods he had not given them. Therefore the Lord ’s anger burned against this land, so that he brought on it all the curses written in this book. In furious anger and in great wrath the Lord uprooted them from their land and thrust them into another land, as it is now.” The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but the things revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may follow all the words of this law.’ — Deuteronomy 29:1-29
‘Now Ahab told Jezebel everything Elijah had done and how he had killed all the prophets with the sword. So Jezebel sent a messenger to Elijah to say, “May the gods deal with me, be it ever so severely, if by this time tomorrow I do not make your life like that of one of them.” Elijah was afraid and ran for his life. When he came to Beersheba in Judah, he left his servant there, while he himself went a day’s journey into the wilderness. He came to a broom bush, sat down under it and prayed that he might die. “I have had enough, Lord ,” he said. “Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors.” Then he lay down under the bush and fell asleep. All at once an angel touched him and said, “Get up and eat.” He looked around, and there by his head was some bread baked over hot coals, and a jar of water. He ate and drank and then lay down again. The angel of the Lord came back a second time and touched him and said, “Get up and eat, for the journey is too much for you.” So he got up and ate and drank. Strengthened by that food, he traveled forty days and forty nights until he reached Horeb, the mountain of God. There he went into a cave and spent the night. And the word of the Lord came to him: “What are you doing here, Elijah?” He replied, “I have been very zealous for the Lord God Almighty. The Israelites have rejected your covenant, torn down your altars, and put your prophets to death with the sword. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me too.” The Lord said, “Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the Lord , for the Lord is about to pass by.” Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the Lord , but the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake came a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper. When Elijah heard it, he pulled his cloak over his face and went out and stood at the mouth of the cave. Then a voice said to him, “What are you doing here, Elijah?” He replied, “I have been very zealous for the Lord God Almighty. The Israelites have rejected your covenant, torn down your altars, and put your prophets to death with the sword. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me too.” The Lord said to him, “Go back the way you came, and go to the Desert of Damascus. When you get there, anoint Hazael king over Aram. Also, anoint Jehu son of Nimshi king over Israel, and anoint Elisha son of Shaphat from Abel Meholah to succeed you as prophet. Jehu will put to death any who escape the sword of Hazael, and Elisha will put to death any who escape the sword of Jehu. Yet I reserve seven thousand in Israel—all whose knees have not bowed down to Baal and whose mouths have not kissed him.” So Elijah went from there and found Elisha son of Shaphat. He was plowing with twelve yoke of oxen, and he himself was driving the twelfth pair. Elijah went up to him and threw his cloak around him. Elisha then left his oxen and ran after Elijah. “Let me kiss my father and mother goodbye,” he said, “and then I will come with you.” “Go back,” Elijah replied. “What have I done to you?” So Elisha left him and went back. He took his yoke of oxen and slaughtered them. He burned the plowing equipment to cook the meat and gave it to the people, and they ate. Then he set out to follow Elijah and became his servant.’ — 1 Kings 19:1-21
‘Then Zophar the Naamathite replied: “Are all these words to go unanswered? Is this talker to be vindicated? Will your idle talk reduce others to silence? Will no one rebuke you when you mock? You say to God, ‘My beliefs are flawless and I am pure in your sight.’ Oh, how I wish that God would speak, that he would open his lips against you and disclose to you the secrets of wisdom, for true wisdom has two sides. Know this: God has even forgotten some of your sin. “Can you fathom the mysteries of God? Can you probe the limits of the Almighty? They are higher than the heavens above—what can you do? They are deeper than the depths below—what can you know? Their measure is longer than the earth and wider than the sea. “If he comes along and confines you in prison and convenes a court, who can oppose him? Surely he recognizes deceivers; and when he sees evil, does he not take note? But the witless can no more become wise than a wild donkey’s colt can be born human. “Yet if you devote your heart to him and stretch out your hands to him, if you put away the sin that is in your hand and allow no evil to dwell in your tent, then, free of fault, you will lift up your face; you will stand firm and without fear. You will surely forget your trouble, recalling it only as waters gone by. Life will be brighter than noonday, and darkness will become like morning. You will be secure, because there is hope; you will look about you and take your rest in safety. You will lie down, with no one to make you afraid, and many will court your favor. But the eyes of the wicked will fail, and escape will elude them; their hope will become a dying gasp.”’ — Job 11:1-20
‘This is the word that came to Jeremiah from the Lord : “Listen to the terms of this covenant and tell them to the people of Judah and to those who live in Jerusalem. Tell them that this is what the Lord , the God of Israel, says: ‘Cursed is the one who does not obey the terms of this covenant— the terms I commanded your ancestors when I brought them out of Egypt, out of the iron-smelting furnace.’ I said, ‘Obey me and do everything I command you, and you will be my people, and I will be your God. Then I will fulfill the oath I swore to your ancestors, to give them a land flowing with milk and honey’—the land you possess today.” I answered, “Amen, Lord .” The Lord said to me, “Proclaim all these words in the towns of Judah and in the streets of Jerusalem: ‘Listen to the terms of this covenant and follow them. From the time I brought your ancestors up from Egypt until today, I warned them again and again, saying, “Obey me.” But they did not listen or pay attention; instead, they followed the stubbornness of their evil hearts. So I brought on them all the curses of the covenant I had commanded them to follow but that they did not keep.’ ” Then the Lord said to me, “There is a conspiracy among the people of Judah and those who live in Jerusalem. They have returned to the sins of their ancestors, who refused to listen to my words. They have followed other gods to serve them. Both Israel and Judah have broken the covenant I made with their ancestors. Therefore this is what the Lord says: ‘I will bring on them a disaster they cannot escape. Although they cry out to me, I will not listen to them. The towns of Judah and the people of Jerusalem will go and cry out to the gods to whom they burn incense, but they will not help them at all when disaster strikes. You, Judah, have as many gods as you have towns; and the altars you have set up to burn incense to that shameful god Baal are as many as the streets of Jerusalem.’ “Do not pray for this people or offer any plea or petition for them, because I will not listen when they call to me in the time of their distress. “What is my beloved doing in my temple as she, with many others, works out her evil schemes? Can consecrated meat avert your punishment? When you engage in your wickedness, then you rejoice. ” The Lord called you a thriving olive tree with fruit beautiful in form. But with the roar of a mighty storm he will set it on fire, and its branches will be broken. The Lord Almighty, who planted you, has decreed disaster for you, because the people of both Israel and Judah have done evil and aroused my anger by burning incense to Baal. Because the Lord revealed their plot to me, I knew it, for at that time he showed me what they were doing. I had been like a gentle lamb led to the slaughter; I did not realize that they had plotted against me, saying, “Let us destroy the tree and its fruit; let us cut him off from the land of the living, that his name be remembered no more.” But you, Lord Almighty, who judge righteously and test the heart and mind, let me see your vengeance on them, for to you I have committed my cause. Therefore this is what the Lord says about the people of Anathoth who are threatening to kill you, saying, “Do not prophesy in the name of the Lord or you will die by our hands”— therefore this is what the Lord Almighty says: “I will punish them. Their young men will die by the sword, their sons and daughters by famine. Not even a remnant will be left to them, because I will bring disaster on the people of Anathoth in the year of their punishment.”’ —Jeremiah 11:1-23
As day 226 begins, I would hate to miss giving the opportunity to anyone who hasn’t received Jesus into their lives as their Lord and Savior an opportunity to make the decision today and the blessing to get to live out the rest of the year in that power and that truth and that hope.
If you would like to receive Jesus as your Lord and Savior, why not join me in this prayer?
Dear God, I know that I am a sinner and there is nothing that I can do to save myself. I confess my complete helplessness to forgive my own sin or to work my way to heaven. At this moment I trust Christ alone as the One who bore my sin when He died on the cross. I believe that He did all that will ever be necessary for me to stand in your holy presence. I thank you that Christ was raised from the dead as a guarantee of my own resurrection. As best as I can, I now transfer my trust to Him. I am grateful that He has promised to receive me despite my many sins and failures. Father, I take you at your word. I thank you that I can face death now that you are my Savior. Thank you for the assurance that you will walk with me through the deep valley. Thank you for hearing this prayer. 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?
Will put your trust in God? Will take refuge in Him? Have ever tasted or seen how good God is? Have you ever shared those experiences with others? Have you ever expressed how blessed it made and makes you? Have you ever explained what being blessed looks like, feels like, sounds like to you? Have you ever captured or told of the blessings you have received!
For me, I have tried to capture and share that over the years through my blog posts. The blessings of God’s Word that speaks truth and life in love to me. The blessings of my wife and kids and family. The blessings of the church community and church family. The blessings in and through work. The blessings of fulfilled and fulfilling dreams. The blessings of the prompting, leading, directing, and correcting of the Holy Spirit. The blessings of salvation through Jesus. The blessings of the baptism of the Holy Spirit. The blessings of leaders and leadership. And so much more.
How about you? Are you living a blessed life? Do you want to live a blessed life? Are you interested in having an encounter with Jesus? Are you looking to find a way to transform the mundane or repetitive pattern of life into one that is filled to overflowing? It takes turning back to God and giving everything into His hands. It takes putting your hope and trust in Him and stopping yourself from trying to go it alone. Are you ready to make up your mind so that you can live out today differently as unto God? Are you ready to give an answer for the joy and the hope that is in you? Don’t fear when you are called before leadership to give an answer, lean on God and speak what the Holy Spirit gives for you to speak. Will you take your blessing from God and be a blessing to others?
Hindsight is 2020. Stop living life as a blur and only realizing what is going on when you look in the rear view mirror.
With June in the rear view mirror, let’s share our takeaways from today’s reading! Did you catch and promises to trust? Did you catch any commands to obey? Did you catch any truths to embrace? Did you catch any warnings to heed? Did you catch any encouragement to rest in? What did you learn about God? What did you learn about yourself? What did you learn about the world? What verse stood out most to you today?
If you are interested in getting together or sharing the information together, please let me know through the comment section below, through email, or even through text messages.
Today’s reading from God’s Word – the Bible comes to us from:
What will you do I order to create and spread joy?
What are you willing to do to share the fact that you love and care for others?
If someone has grieved or hurt you, we need to turn that around and forgive and comforts them so that they are not overwhelmed by excessive sorrow.
We need to speak the reaffirmation of our love for them.
The biggest reason to forgive is so that we don’t give the devil a foothold that he will then be able to us to try and outwit and manipulate us.
We know he is a liar and a cheat, we know his schemes and so we need to avoid the traps and snares he is putting out there in attempts to derail and disqualify us and there from the eternal destination of being with God for the rest of eternity.
So let’s follow Jesus, as servant leaders, spreading the knowledge of Jesus everywhere we go.
Let’s be the aroma of Jesus, shining beacons, and spicing things up like salt everywhere we go.
Let’s choose to live out our lives as living sacrifices, so that in and through it all, God will receive the praise and the honor and the glory in Jesus’s name.
So as we prepare for today, let’s consecrate our hearts. Let’s live set apart for God.
In the midst of trials and troubles, let’s remember how Jesus spoke of considering pure joy and to take heart.
We need to turn back to God before it is too late.
We need to do what is good in the eyes of God or prepare to deal with the punishment of our decisions.
Turn to God and receive Jesus!
Be able to learn your lessons from others so that you don’t have to go through it yourself.
As day 198 of 2020 begins, I would hate to miss giving the opportunity to anyone who hasn’t received Jesus into their lives as their Lord and Savior an opportunity to make the decision this early into 2020 and the blessing to get to live out the rest of 2020 in that power and that truth and that hope.
If you would like to receive Jesus as your Lord and Savior, why not join me in this prayer?
“Dear God, I know that I am a sinner and there is nothing that I can do to save myself. I confess my complete helplessness to forgive my own sin or to work my way to heaven. At this moment I trust Christ alone as the One who bore my sin when He died on the cross. I believe that He did all that will ever be necessary for me to stand in your holy presence. I thank you that Christ was raised from the dead as a guarantee of my own resurrection. As best as I can, I now transfer my trust to Him. I am grateful that He has promised to receive me despite my many sins and failures. Father, I take you at your word. I thank you that I can face death now that you are my Savior. Thank you for the assurance that you will walk with me through the deep valley. Thank you for hearing this prayer. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.” —The Sinner’s Prayer
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 commenton my blog, why not email or text me instead?
Are you the kind of leader who is serving others? Are you the kind of leader who is being a good example? Are you the kind of leader who has a clear conscience? Are you the kind of leader who has good motives in your heart? Are you the kind of leader who is living humbly? Are you the kind of leader who works hard? Are you the kind of leader who blesses others, including those who curse you? Are you the kind of leader who endures the persecutions that comes your way? Are you the kind of leader who answers kindly even when you are slandered? Are you the kind of leader who warns others when there is trouble or they are acting improperly rather than trying to shame or embarrass them? Are you the kind of leader who others would or should want to imitate? Are you the kind of leader who walks and operates in the power of God rather than being wind and full of hot air when they speak? Are you the kind of leader who knows what will be required when time for correction is required?
Are you a leader? What kind of leader are you? What fruit is being produced out of your leadership? Is it pleasing and glorifying to God?
If the question question “what kind of leader are you” was an ink blot test, how would others answer?
What would people see in you through an ink blot that represents your life? What kind of leader are you?
With May in the rear view mirror, let’s share our takeaways from today’s reading! Did you catch and promises to trust? Did you catch any commands to obey? Did you catch any truths to embrace? Did you catch any warnings to heed? Did you catch any encouragement to rest in? What did you learn about God? What did you learn about yourself? What did you learn about the world? What verse stood out most to you today?
If you are interested in getting together or sharing the information together, please let me know through the comment section below, through email, or even through text messages.
Today’s reading from God’s Word – the Bible comes to us from:
Do you know what the nature of a leader, a true leader is?
Are you a servant of Jesus?
Are you sharing the truth and mysteries of God?
Are you living as though someone who has received rather than boasting about what you have?
Are you living in your own weakness so that the strength of God is revealed?
Are you living returning good for evil?
Are you living with an attitude of gratitude?
Are you responding out of the love that overflows from the love God has poured into your heart?
Are you living a way that others would find worthwhile imitating?
Turn to God and allow Him to lead and guide your every word, step, and action.
As living sacrifices, let’s lead humbly, serving others in order to glorify our heavenly Father through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Let’s live our lives doing what is good and right in the eyes of God
Let’s learn from God
Let’s learn through each experience how to lean in and depend on God
Let’s find wisdom and understanding from God
Receive strength and insight from God
Be good leaders whose lives and words and actions glorify Him rather than wandering around like drunkards
Be good leaders who serve the orphans and widows
Be good leaders who serve the needy and poor
Be good leaders who serve those who are looking for wisdom and truth
Don’t murder! Don’t steal! Don’t rob! Don’t hurt!
Show kindness! Be in relationship with God rather than living in false security!
As day 179 of 2020 begins, I would hate to miss giving the opportunity to anyone who hasn’t received Jesus into their lives as their Lord and Savior an opportunity to make the decision this early into 2020 and the blessing to get to live out the rest of 2020 in that power and that truth and that hope.
If you would like to receive Jesus as your Lord and Savior, why not join me in this prayer?
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?
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?
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?
Today’s devotional that I am following is The 49-Week Challenge comes from Life.Church. For more information, please visit www.life.church — Thank you Life.Church for sharing this reading plan through Bible.com
What comes to mind when you hear that question? Is it in a relationship? Is it in a role or position? Is it a place or situation? Is it your final destination?
Do you realize where you are standing? Do you realize the position you are in? Do you realize the situation you are in? In the midst of everything going on, Do you know where you stand? Do you realize what you need to do in such a position?
Where do you stand in your family? Where do you stand in your marriage? Where do you stand in your workplace? Where do you stand in your ministry? Where do you stand in your team? Where do you stand in your community? Where do you stand with God? Where do you stand with eternity?
Are you able to receive it humbly? Are you able to receive it respectfully? Are you able to receive it as a steward? Are you able to receive it as a servant?
With April in the rear view mirror, let’s reflect on what we have learned in the past 6 days as we meditate on God’s Word this 7th day. Do you have any highlights or insights from what we have read in the past 6 days? What connections have you made or can you make in relations to our readings from God’s Word? Have you made time to speak with God through your reading time? Have you made time to speak with God as a part of your daily schedule? Are you prioritizing God enough that He gets prime time with you? Have you missed the mark this week and need to turn back to God and confess it and ask Him for forgiveness? Have you taken time to thank and praise Him for the forgiveness that has already been paid for through the blood of Jesus? Have you taken time to thank Him for all the other blessings in your life? Have you taken time to thank Him for all the answered prayers? Do you have any worries? Are you taking hold of His promise not to worry but to give it up into His hands? Let’s ask God for wisdom and guidance for this day! Let’s put our trust in Him!
If you are interested in getting together or sharing the information together, please let me know through the comment section below, through email, or even through text messages.
Today’s reading from God’s Word – the Bible comes to us from:
Then the Lord said to him, ‘Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground.
Do you remember the lessons you personally learned?
Do you remember the lessons that others have learned and shared?
Are you able to live out your today differently without needing to repeat the mistakes of the past?
Are you able to live out your today differently without tripping on things that made others fall?
The earth is the Lords and everything in it, so do you realize that you are standing on Holy Ground?
How do you show respect?
How do you respect others?
What do your words say?
What do your actions say?
Some like to say actions speak louder than words, are your actions counteracting your words or reinforcing them?
Do you respect them out of deep admiration elicited by their abilities, qualities, or achievements?
Do you respect them enough to show them that their feelings, wishes, rights, or traditions deserve their due?
As day 133 of 2020 begins, I would hate to miss giving the opportunity to anyone who hasn’t received Jesus into their lives as their Lord and Savior an opportunity to make the decision this early into 2020 and the blessing to get to live out the rest of 2020 in that power and that truth and that hope.
If you would like to receive Jesus as your Lord and Savior, why not join me in this prayer?
Dear God, I know that I am a sinner and there is nothing that I can do to save myself. I confess my complete helplessness to forgive my own sin or to work my way to heaven. At this moment I trust Christ alone as the One who bore my sin when He died on the cross. I believe that He did all that will ever be necessary for me to stand in your holy presence. I thank you that Christ was raised from the dead as a guarantee of my own resurrection. As best as I can, I now transfer my trust to Him. I am grateful that He has promised to receive me despite my many sins and failures. Father, I take you at your word. I thank you that I can face death now that you are my Savior. Thank you for the assurance that you will walk with me through the deep valley. Thank you for hearing this prayer. 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?
Today’s devotional The 49-Week Challenge comes from Life.Church. For more information, please visit www.life.church — Thank you Life.Church for sharing this reading plan through Bible.com
Today with a cough, sinus pressure, upset stomach and message from a nurse practitioner that it sounds like an upper respiratory infection, I am staying away and resting. Even so I find it important to be filled with God’s wisdom and Word to get my day started. My day gets a later start because I managed to sleep in and the cough medicine seems to help but it is the kind that can only be taken twice a day and so only got 1/2 a dose yesterday. Took an early dose so I can get one more tonight before bed. Hoping this will get better soon so I can get back to the new normal (was going to say normal, but that went away with all the working from home and stay home orders).
Can you believe that today is day 100? Not only day 100 of our reading from God’s Word but also our 100th day of 2020.
With March in the rear view mirror, let’s share our takeaways from today’s reading! Did you catch and promises to trust? Did you catch any commands to obey? Did you catch any truths to embrace? Did you catch any warnings to heed? Did you catch any encouragement to rest in? What did you learn about God? What did you learn about yourself? What did you learn about the world? What verse stood out most to you today?
If you are interested in getting together or sharing the information together, please let me know through the comment section below, through email, or even through text messages.
Today’s reading from God’s Word – the Bible comes to us from:
(I have chosen to use NIV translation, but feel free to choose whichever version you feel more comfortable with)
Are you aware of what is about to happen through what the Holy Spirit is saying to you?
Do you realize that God isn’t and won’t be surprised?
Do you realize that God can take what the enemy meant for evil and turn it around and use it for good?
Do you realize that God will have the victory? Are you ready to see the victory?
Do you realize God is preparing things in the right order to be able to accomplish His will and His purposes?
Do you realize your role and purpose in God’s plan?
Do you realize the impact your life is having and will have as it unfolds?
Ever heard the message to do both? Don’t stop doing the good stuff you are already doing and add on these additional things you should have also been doing?
Is there anything you could be tempted with that would cause you to turn on others?
Is there a number or amount that would cause you to turn on your people?
Do you think it will benefit you if you get paid off?
Do you realize the impact on your life for accepting the price and going through with it?
Do you realize the guilt and the emotions that will overcome you for having done it?
Will you go and get prepared for what Jesus is going to do in, for, and through your life?
Will you be aware of what is going on around you?
Will you be sensitive to the Holy Spirit to know what is really going on around you?
Will you know even when others are in denial? Imagine if your best friend would deny knowing you, imagine if they did it 3 times.
Do you realize that they will admit to it? Do you realize that they know what is going on?
Forgiveness is the key! Jesus made a way and gave us a way to remember what He did.
At the Passover, Jesus as part of the last supper, performs the first, what we call today communion.
Jesus shows us how He is about to give up His body for us.
Jesus shows us how He is about to have His blood spilled for us.
Jesus tells of how He is going to be the last sacrifice needed, once and for all, to deal with sin and eternal death.
We just need to receive it! We need to accept it! We need to choose to allow Jesus into our hearts! We need to choose to allow Jesus to be our Lord and Savior!
Imagine the fear that would come when the soldiers showed up in the garden.
Imagine the responses that would happen out of the emotions.
Imagine the scattering that would take place as they took Jesus away.
Do you think you can do it in your own strength? Do you think you can overcome it on your own? Do you think you would be able to admit, knowing what would or could happen to you, admit that you know Jesus? Imagine Peter and how he responded and yet Jesus forgave Him and built His church on him. He knew what was going to happen. He knew what had to happen. He knew the faith that would be required for the Good News to be spread. He knew what the message of resurrection Sunday would bring. We need to prevent ourselves from allowing pride to make us think we are so much better than that. Pride comes before the fall after all. No matter who you are.
With everything going on, such a busy day, could you sustain it and stay awake?
With all the pressure being put on Jesus, we see how it impacted Him as a human to the point of sweating blood in the garden.
Yes, it is going to be hard. Yes, it is going to be tough. Are you willing to do it God’s way? Are you willing to do it for God’s glory? Are you willing to endure the suffering and pain with joy in order to give God the praise, the honor, and the glory?
Will you allow the light of Lord shine in and through the darkness?
Will you allow the Lord to be your salvation?
Will you be able to rebuke the fear because of and out of your faith in God?
Will you trust in God and allow the battle to be His rather than trying to do it all in your own strength?
Will you look to spend eternity with God?
Will you seek God’s face and will in all the things you are to do?
As day 100 of 2020 begins, I would hate to miss giving the opportunity to anyone who hasn’t received Jesus into their lives as their Lord and Savior an opportunity to make the decision this early into 2020 and the blessing to get to live out the rest of 2020 in that power and that truth and that hope.
If you would like to receive Jesus as your Lord and Savior, why not join me in this prayer?
Dear God, I know that I am a sinner and there is nothing that I can do to save myself. I confess my complete helplessness to forgive my own sin or to work my way to heaven. At this moment I trust Christ alone as the One who bore my sin when He died on the cross. I believe that He did all that will ever be necessary for me to stand in your holy presence. I thank you that Christ was raised from the dead as a guarantee of my own resurrection. As best as I can, I now transfer my trust to Him. I am grateful that He has promised to receive me despite my many sins and failures. Father, I take you at your word. I thank you that I can face death now that you are my Savior. Thank you for the assurance that you will walk with me through the deep valley. Thank you for hearing this prayer. 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?
Today’s devotional The 49-Week Challenge comes from Life.Church. For more information, please visit www.life.church — Thank you Life.Church for sharing this reading plan through Bible.com
Middle English (in the sense ‘evil in nature or character’): from shrew in the sense ‘evil person or thing’, or as the past participle of obsolete shrew ‘to curse’. The word developed the sense ‘cunning’, and gradually gained a favorable connotation during the 17th century.
Is it a good thing to be a shrewd manager? Do you consider yourself the owner or the manager of the things in your life? Based on the Bible the Earth is the Lord’s and everything it which makes Him the owner. As such we are to be the stewards or managers of what He has given us. What management style do you follow? What management techniques do you use? When you look back or people consider how you have lived and your management and stewardship, how will they be viewed and valued? What if you were being called in to give an account for your management?
With February in the rear view mirror, let’s share our takeaways from today’s reading! Did you catch and promises to trust? Did you catch any commands to obey? Did you catch any truths to embrace? Did you catch any warnings to heed? Did you catch any encouragement to rest in? What did you learn about God? What did you learn about yourself? What did you learn about the world? What verse stood out most to you today?
If you are interested in getting together or sharing the information together, please let me know through the comment section below, through email, or even through text messages.
Today’s reading from God’s Word – the Bible comes to us from:
(I have chosen to use NIV translation, but feel free to choose whichever version you feel more comfortable with)
It isn’t too late if you were living against God’s Will!
It isn’t too late if you have been living giving yourself to someone or something other than or rather than God!
As day 75 of 2020 begins, I would hate to miss giving the opportunity to anyone who hasn’t received Jesus into their lives as their Lord and Savior an opportunity to make the decision this early into 2020 and the blessing to get to live out the rest of 2020 in that power and that truth and that hope.
If you would like to receive Jesus as your Lord and Savior, why not join me in this prayer?
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?
Trusted adviser or good listener? What do you do when you hear about conflicts? What do you do when people’s plans don’t seem to align? What do you do when they play as friend but you have observed behavior that may make them a foe? What do you do when they try to play ally and then become very adversarial? How do you take their input? How do you take their advice? How do you know if they are looking after your best interest or their own?
38You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye and tooth for tooth.’39But I tell you not to resist an evil person. If someone slaps you on your right cheek, turn to him the other also; 40if someone wants to sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well; 41and if someone forces you to go one mile,go with him two. 42Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.
43You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’44But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,r45that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. 46If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Do not even tax collectors do the same? 47And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even Gentiles do the same?
48Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.”
Let’s share our takeaways from today’s reading! Did you catch and promises to trust? Did you catch any commands to obey? Did you catch any truths to embrace? Did you catch any warnings to heed? Did you catch any encouragement to rest in? What did you learn about God? What did you learn about yourself? What did you learn about the world? What verse stood out most to you today?
If you are interested in getting together or sharing the information together, please let me know through the comment section below, through email, or even through text messages.
Today’s reading from God’s Word – the Bible comes to us from: (I have chosen to use NIV translation, but feel free to choose whichever version you feel more comfortable with)
What are you sowing? You realize that you will reap what you sow right?
Do you realize the soil available for you to plant and work with?
Do you realize that based on the soil there is different preparation work required before you can sow?
Do you realize that God provides us with bread to eat and seeds to sow? Don’t eat the seeds and miss the opportunity to reap from your sowing?
Do you realize the obstacles to a good harvest?
Don’t allow trouble or persecution to rob you of the joy of the Lord!
Don’t allow worries or the deceitfulness of wealth keep you from the truth of God’s Word!
Prepare yourself and others that when they hear the Good News they can receive it and have a harvest of multiplication.
Let’s realize how to respond when people try to put weeds in the midst of our good seeds being planted.
Let’s allow the seeds to grow and then at the time of harvest, when the weeds are distinguishable, pull the weeds and tie them up so they can be burned up. Let’s then gather the harvest!
Don’t lose hope! Even if you have faith the size of a mustard seed you have enough to accomplish God’s will.
God knows our hearts! God will be able to separate the good from the evil! God will be able to separate the righteous from the wicked.
God knows our thoughts! Are you living for good or for evil?
Consider the parables of Jesus and their meaning to our lives and how we are to live.
Let’s put our trust in God! Let’s live knowing God!
Go beyond knowing about Jesus and start a relationship with Jesus!
God knows what we have need of before we ask! So don’t babel on but instead ask according to His will so that you will receive it, seek so that you will find it, knock so that it will be opened to you.
It’s more than a wall or a building or a possession, it is about redemption through Jesus Christ our Lord!
Will you humble yourself for the sake of others?
Will you serve as a leader so that others may realize the love of God?
Do not be afraid! Trust in God!
Realize that the truth will set you free!
Realize that God’s already won the victory!
The heart of the king is in the hand of the Lord!
Remember the battle belongs to the Lord!
Our God saves!
Who will you trust?
How will you live?
Speak truth in love?
Put your trust in God rather than in yourself or your things!
As day 40 of 2020 begins, I would hate to miss giving the opportunity to anyone who hasn’t received Jesus into their lives as their Lord and Savior an opportunity to make the decision this early into 2020 and the blessing to get to live out the rest of 2020 in that power and that truth and that hope.
If you would like to receive Jesus as your Lord and Savior, why not join me in this prayer?
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?
![leader
[ˈlēdər]
NOUN
leader (noun) · leaders (plural noun) · Leader of the House (noun) · Leaders of the House (plural noun) · Leader of the House of Commons (noun) · Leaders of the House of Commons (plural noun) · Leader of the House of Lords (noun) · Leaders of the House of Lords (plural noun)
the person who leads or commands a group, organization, or country.
"the leader of a protest group"
synonyms:
chief · head · principal · boss · commander · captain · figurehead · controller · superior · kingpin · headman · mover and shaker · chairman · chairwoman · chairperson · chair · convener · moderator · director · managing director · MD · manager · superintendent · supervisor · overseer · administrator · employer · master · mistress · foreman · president · premier · governor · ruler · monarch · king · queen · sovereign · emperor · tsar · prince · princess · lord · lord and master · elder · patriarch · guru · mentor · authority
antonyms:
follower · supporter
(in the UK) a member of the government officially responsible for initiating business in the House of Commons or House of Lords.
an organization or company that is the most advanced or successful in a particular area.
"a leader in the use of video conferencing"
synonyms:
pioneer · front runner · innovator · trailblazer · pathfinder · groundbreaker · trendsetter · leading light · guiding light · torchbearer · flagbearer · pacemaker · originator · initiator · developer · discoverer · founder · architect · neoteric
the principal player in a music group.
BRITISH
the principal first violinist in an orchestra.
NORTH AMERICAN
a conductor of a band or small musical group.
BRITISH
a leading article or editorial in a newspaper.
a short strip of nonfunctioning material at each end of a reel of film or recording tape for connection to the spool.
a length of filament attached to the end of a fishing line to carry the hook or fly.
a shoot of a plant at the apex of a stem or main branch.
printing
(leaders)
a series of dots or dashes across the page to guide the eye, especially in tabulated material.](https://from2005toeternity.files.wordpress.com/2021/11/image-3.png?w=635)
![learner
[ˈlərnər]
NOUN
learner (noun) · learners (plural noun)
a person who is learning a subject or skill.
"a fast learner"
synonyms:
beginner · trainee · apprentice · pupil · student · mentee · novice · newcomer · starter · probationer · tyro · fledgling · fresher · freshman · freshwoman · neophyte · initiate · new recruit · raw recruit · new boy/girl · tenderfoot · novitiate
antonyms:
veteran · expert](https://from2005toeternity.files.wordpress.com/2021/11/image-4.png?w=636)
God's story through my life from 2005 to eternity... 
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