“Immediately He made the disciples get into the boat and go ahead of Him to the other side, while He sent the crowds away. After He had sent the crowds away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray; and when it was evening, He was there alone.” Matthew 14:22-23
Prayer’s greatest reward is the chance it gives us to experience the heart of God. The most important activity we can engage in as Christians is prayer. Everything connected with God evolves out of time spent alone with Him in praise, worship, devotion, and petition.
We cannot truly experience the wonder of praise or the peace that comes from meditating on His Word unless we have first spent time with Him in prayer. Without prayer, there is no depth in our relationship with God, and our knowledge of Him becomes empty and stale within our hearts.
Only prayer can revive a weary soul. When David was on the run from Saul, the first place he went was to God in prayer. When Jesus became physically tired, He sought the Father through prayer. Nothing has the potential to change the face of your environment like prayer.
Arrested, thrown into prison, and waiting for execution, Peter prayed as did those who knew him; and God sent an angel to help him escape. Prayer is not merely coming to God with a wish list. It is, instead, a time when you make yourself available to be used of Him in whatever way He chooses.
God’s goal for our praying is to find intimate fellowship and communion with Him.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
God Will Make a Way!
“Asa did good and right in the sight of the LORD his God, for he removed the foreign altars and high places, tore down the sacred pillars, cut down the Asherim, and commanded Judah to seek the LORD God of their fathers and to observe the law and the commandment. He also removed the high places and the incense altars from all the cities of Judah. And the kingdom was undisturbed under him.” 2 Chronicles 14:2-5
“Now Asa had an army of 300,000 from Judah, bearing large shields and spears, and 280,000 from Benjamin, bearing shields and wielding bows; all of them were valiant warriors. Now Zerah the Ethiopian came out against them with an army of a million men and 300 chariots, and he came to Mareshah. So Asa went out to meet him, and they drew up in battle formation in the valley of Zephathah at Mareshah. Then Asa called to the LORD his God and said, ‘LORD, there is no one besides You to help in the battle between the powerful and those who have no strength; so help us, O LORD our God, for we trust in You, and in Your name have come against this multitude. O LORD, You are our God; let not man prevail against You.’ So the LORD routed the Ethiopians before Asa and before Judah, and the Ethiopians fled. 2 Chronicles 14:8-12
Asa was the third king do rule over Judah. His zeal and love for God led him to destroy the high places of worship devoted to pagan gods. As a result of his commitment, God granted peace to Judah. Then God allowed Asa’s faith to be tested. An Ethiopian army made up of over a million fighting men challenged Judah in battle. Even though they were outnumbered more than two-to-one, Asa and his army refused to retreat.
Hemmed in on all sides, Asa called out to God: “LORD, there is no one besides You to help in the battle between the powerful and those who have no strength” (2 Chron. 14:11). The Lord was immediately moved by Asa’s prayer of dependence. He routed the enemy in such a way that after the battle, Judah carried off a wealth of plunder and livestock.
God always clears a way through the fiery trails of life for those who trust Him. Are you facing a mighty enemy with no hope of escape and no human ally to help? Then call out to Him. He is the Lord of Hosts, and He will summon His mighty reinforcements to come to your aid.
“All God’s giants have been weak men who did great things...” -J. Hudson Taylor
“Now Asa had an army of 300,000 from Judah, bearing large shields and spears, and 280,000 from Benjamin, bearing shields and wielding bows; all of them were valiant warriors. Now Zerah the Ethiopian came out against them with an army of a million men and 300 chariots, and he came to Mareshah. So Asa went out to meet him, and they drew up in battle formation in the valley of Zephathah at Mareshah. Then Asa called to the LORD his God and said, ‘LORD, there is no one besides You to help in the battle between the powerful and those who have no strength; so help us, O LORD our God, for we trust in You, and in Your name have come against this multitude. O LORD, You are our God; let not man prevail against You.’ So the LORD routed the Ethiopians before Asa and before Judah, and the Ethiopians fled. 2 Chronicles 14:8-12
Asa was the third king do rule over Judah. His zeal and love for God led him to destroy the high places of worship devoted to pagan gods. As a result of his commitment, God granted peace to Judah. Then God allowed Asa’s faith to be tested. An Ethiopian army made up of over a million fighting men challenged Judah in battle. Even though they were outnumbered more than two-to-one, Asa and his army refused to retreat.
Hemmed in on all sides, Asa called out to God: “LORD, there is no one besides You to help in the battle between the powerful and those who have no strength” (2 Chron. 14:11). The Lord was immediately moved by Asa’s prayer of dependence. He routed the enemy in such a way that after the battle, Judah carried off a wealth of plunder and livestock.
God always clears a way through the fiery trails of life for those who trust Him. Are you facing a mighty enemy with no hope of escape and no human ally to help? Then call out to Him. He is the Lord of Hosts, and He will summon His mighty reinforcements to come to your aid.
“All God’s giants have been weak men who did great things...” -J. Hudson Taylor
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Go Forward...by Faith
“Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But he must ask in faith without any doubting, for the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind. For that man ought not to expect that he will receive anything from the Lord, being a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.” James 1:2-8
Fall semester had come and gone without a hitch. However, spring semester was beginning on a different note. A federal grant would pay his college tuition, but he had no idea where he would get the money needed for books and other expenses. He recalled how God had made it clear that he was to return to school and complete his degree. He prayed, “Lord, I know You have led me here. So I’m trusting You to meet this need in my life.”
He had two choices - give up or go forward by faith. When God leads us along a certain path, our only responsibility is obedience. His responsibility is to work our all the details. F.B. Meyer wrote: “Believe that [God] is there between you and your difficulty, and what baffles you will flee before Him, as clouds before the gale.”
Later at registration the student was asked to sign a form for funds he was about to receive. He had been awarded a small scholarship - one that would pay for his books with extra to spare.
No matter how great or small the request may seem, God is always accessible to those who call out to Him in times of need. Prayer and faith is the winning combination in times of need.
Fall semester had come and gone without a hitch. However, spring semester was beginning on a different note. A federal grant would pay his college tuition, but he had no idea where he would get the money needed for books and other expenses. He recalled how God had made it clear that he was to return to school and complete his degree. He prayed, “Lord, I know You have led me here. So I’m trusting You to meet this need in my life.”
He had two choices - give up or go forward by faith. When God leads us along a certain path, our only responsibility is obedience. His responsibility is to work our all the details. F.B. Meyer wrote: “Believe that [God] is there between you and your difficulty, and what baffles you will flee before Him, as clouds before the gale.”
Later at registration the student was asked to sign a form for funds he was about to receive. He had been awarded a small scholarship - one that would pay for his books with extra to spare.
No matter how great or small the request may seem, God is always accessible to those who call out to Him in times of need. Prayer and faith is the winning combination in times of need.
Monday, March 28, 2011
You Have Access to God
“Jesus said, ‘Are you still lacking in understanding also?’” Matthew 15:16
A passport is an official document that allows you to move freely from one county to another. It is the means of access without which international travel is virtually impossible. When Jesus instructed us to pray “in My name,” He implied that His full work on the cross was the sole means by which the forgiven and justified believer can legitimately come to the Father and expect an answer.
E.M. Bounds, a noted writer on prayer described Jesus’ comment in such a fashion in his book, Purpose In Prayer: “Christ taught us also to approach the Father in His name. That is our passport. It is in His name that we are to make our petitions known....How wide and comprehensive is that ‘whatsoever?’ There is no limit to the power of that name. ‘Whatsoever you shall ask.’ That is the Divine declaration, and it opens up to every praying child a vista of infinite resource and possibility....And that is our heritage. All that Christ has may become ours if we obey the conditions.”
Asking in Jesus’ name means we come on the merit and mediation of the cross and in the authority of His name. We ask, wanting the Father’s will to be done above our own.
“You can do more than pray - but only after you have prayed.” -S.D. Gordon
A passport is an official document that allows you to move freely from one county to another. It is the means of access without which international travel is virtually impossible. When Jesus instructed us to pray “in My name,” He implied that His full work on the cross was the sole means by which the forgiven and justified believer can legitimately come to the Father and expect an answer.
E.M. Bounds, a noted writer on prayer described Jesus’ comment in such a fashion in his book, Purpose In Prayer: “Christ taught us also to approach the Father in His name. That is our passport. It is in His name that we are to make our petitions known....How wide and comprehensive is that ‘whatsoever?’ There is no limit to the power of that name. ‘Whatsoever you shall ask.’ That is the Divine declaration, and it opens up to every praying child a vista of infinite resource and possibility....And that is our heritage. All that Christ has may become ours if we obey the conditions.”
Asking in Jesus’ name means we come on the merit and mediation of the cross and in the authority of His name. We ask, wanting the Father’s will to be done above our own.
“You can do more than pray - but only after you have prayed.” -S.D. Gordon
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Ask, Seek, Knock
“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened. Or what man is there among you who, when his son asks for a loaf, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, he will not give him a snake, will he? If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give what is good to those who ask Him!” Matthew 7:7-11
A teenager does not ask his neighbor for money. He goes to his mom or dad hoping for an extended hand and, on most occasions, finding at least a portion of his request granted. Uppermost in our thinking regarding prayer is the encouraging truth that our supplications and needs are received by our heavenly Father, not a distant deity.
It is the fatherhood of God that forms the foundation for biblical prayer. That is why Jesus taught us to say: “Our Father who art it heaven” and explained that our requests are heard and answered by our “Father who is in heaven” (Matt. 7:11). You do not have to wrench a response from a reluctant God; but you can come to Him as your kind, loving, generous, and understanding Father. Such is the intimacy that God desires with you.
If His response is not what you expected, don’t pout. If He withholds your request, stay thankful. God knows what is best for you, even when you don’t. Prayer is talk between Father and son, Father and daughter. God is never cold or distant, but always accessible, available, and ready to give His best.
“The great tragedy of life is not unanswered prayer, but unoffered prayer.” -F.B. Meyer
A teenager does not ask his neighbor for money. He goes to his mom or dad hoping for an extended hand and, on most occasions, finding at least a portion of his request granted. Uppermost in our thinking regarding prayer is the encouraging truth that our supplications and needs are received by our heavenly Father, not a distant deity.
It is the fatherhood of God that forms the foundation for biblical prayer. That is why Jesus taught us to say: “Our Father who art it heaven” and explained that our requests are heard and answered by our “Father who is in heaven” (Matt. 7:11). You do not have to wrench a response from a reluctant God; but you can come to Him as your kind, loving, generous, and understanding Father. Such is the intimacy that God desires with you.
If His response is not what you expected, don’t pout. If He withholds your request, stay thankful. God knows what is best for you, even when you don’t. Prayer is talk between Father and son, Father and daughter. God is never cold or distant, but always accessible, available, and ready to give His best.
“The great tragedy of life is not unanswered prayer, but unoffered prayer.” -F.B. Meyer
Friday, March 25, 2011
The Components of Prayer
“Pray, then, in this way:
‘Our Father who is in heaven,
Hallowed be Your name.
Your kingdom come
Your will be done,
On earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.
And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from evil. [For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.]’” Matthew 6:9-13
Do you remember when you were asked to outline books or reports in school? The outline did not exhaust the topic or theme but merely thumbnailed the essential aspects. Jesus’ teaching on prayer before those gathered at His Sermon on the Mount should be viewed in the same light.
He could not, of course, plumb the depths of prayer in a few verses. He simply provided the audience with an outline of the basic components of prayer - worship, petition, confession, obedience. How these are applied to your life are the real dynamics of prayer. God wants you to pray because He wants to do something special in your life - to meet your needs, to teach you His ways, to correct your shortcomings, to reveal His character, to transform your thinking.
God launched you on a fantastic adventure when you were saved. Prayer is the frontier of personal experience where that adventure is continued. Prayerlessness is the seed whose fruit is barrenness, drudgery, and mediocrity. Your prayers regarding the specific circumstances of your life fill in the outline of the Lord’s Prayer.
“Take time to be holy, speak often with the Lord.” -William Longstaff
‘Our Father who is in heaven,
Hallowed be Your name.
Your kingdom come
Your will be done,
On earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.
And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from evil. [For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.]’” Matthew 6:9-13
Do you remember when you were asked to outline books or reports in school? The outline did not exhaust the topic or theme but merely thumbnailed the essential aspects. Jesus’ teaching on prayer before those gathered at His Sermon on the Mount should be viewed in the same light.
He could not, of course, plumb the depths of prayer in a few verses. He simply provided the audience with an outline of the basic components of prayer - worship, petition, confession, obedience. How these are applied to your life are the real dynamics of prayer. God wants you to pray because He wants to do something special in your life - to meet your needs, to teach you His ways, to correct your shortcomings, to reveal His character, to transform your thinking.
God launched you on a fantastic adventure when you were saved. Prayer is the frontier of personal experience where that adventure is continued. Prayerlessness is the seed whose fruit is barrenness, drudgery, and mediocrity. Your prayers regarding the specific circumstances of your life fill in the outline of the Lord’s Prayer.
“Take time to be holy, speak often with the Lord.” -William Longstaff
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Pray with Confidence
“This is the confidence which we have before Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests which we have asked from Him.” 1 John 5:14-15
“I know God hears my prayers,” you may say, “but how do I know my requests are according to His will?” That sentiment can do more to undermine our confidence in prayer than any other thought. If we knew God’s will to begin with, we reason, we would have no problem trusting God for the answer. Actually, we know more about God’s will than we think.
It is God’s will to give thanks in all things (1 Thess. 5:18). Do you have a grateful heart no matter you circumstance? Giving thanks acknowledges His sovereignty and expresses a steadfast faith in Christ.
It is God’s will to walk in purity and holiness (1 Thess. 4:3). Do you walk on a thin edge of immorality, giving place to illegitimate thoughts? Don’t.
It is God’s will to be filled with the Spirit (Eph. 5:18). The verb tense emphasizes such filling as a continuous action, stressing our complete dependence on the Spirit and our unceasing need for His help and guidance.
Prayer is precisely the place where we discover the will of God. We seek His mind, sift through His Word, and thank Him that God is faithfully at work in our lives.
“I delight to do Your will, O my God...” Psalm 40:8
“I know God hears my prayers,” you may say, “but how do I know my requests are according to His will?” That sentiment can do more to undermine our confidence in prayer than any other thought. If we knew God’s will to begin with, we reason, we would have no problem trusting God for the answer. Actually, we know more about God’s will than we think.
It is God’s will to give thanks in all things (1 Thess. 5:18). Do you have a grateful heart no matter you circumstance? Giving thanks acknowledges His sovereignty and expresses a steadfast faith in Christ.
It is God’s will to walk in purity and holiness (1 Thess. 4:3). Do you walk on a thin edge of immorality, giving place to illegitimate thoughts? Don’t.
It is God’s will to be filled with the Spirit (Eph. 5:18). The verb tense emphasizes such filling as a continuous action, stressing our complete dependence on the Spirit and our unceasing need for His help and guidance.
Prayer is precisely the place where we discover the will of God. We seek His mind, sift through His Word, and thank Him that God is faithfully at work in our lives.
“I delight to do Your will, O my God...” Psalm 40:8
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Pray the Bible Way
“This is the confidence which we have before Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us.” 1 John 5:14
How confident are you in your prayer life? Is it a vague spiritual realm where you are unsure? Is it merely a rote spiritual exercise you perform because the Bible teaches its importance? This is certainly not the mindset or spiritual atmosphere God intended for prayer. He designed prayer so we might experience His reality, power, and care for our lives.
We often lack confidence because we do not understand some of God’s basic principles of prayer. It all begins with access (Eph. 3:11-12). Through faith in Christ, you are in His presence and can boldly bring Him your petitions. Through this access to God’s very throne, you can be confident He hears your prayers, every one of them. Not one falls on deaf ears.
If you have habitually sinned, God’s kindness can bring you to repentance. God’s forgiveness cleanses you from sin’s guilt. You are holy and righteous in His eyes even when your behavior is unholy and unrighteous. Your conduct does not alter your access, through it may hinder your communion. Since you have such fearless access through Christ, you can confidently pray with the assurance that God has heard your plea.
“The eyes of the LORD are toward the righteous and His ears are open to their cry.” Psalm 34:15
How confident are you in your prayer life? Is it a vague spiritual realm where you are unsure? Is it merely a rote spiritual exercise you perform because the Bible teaches its importance? This is certainly not the mindset or spiritual atmosphere God intended for prayer. He designed prayer so we might experience His reality, power, and care for our lives.
We often lack confidence because we do not understand some of God’s basic principles of prayer. It all begins with access (Eph. 3:11-12). Through faith in Christ, you are in His presence and can boldly bring Him your petitions. Through this access to God’s very throne, you can be confident He hears your prayers, every one of them. Not one falls on deaf ears.
If you have habitually sinned, God’s kindness can bring you to repentance. God’s forgiveness cleanses you from sin’s guilt. You are holy and righteous in His eyes even when your behavior is unholy and unrighteous. Your conduct does not alter your access, through it may hinder your communion. Since you have such fearless access through Christ, you can confidently pray with the assurance that God has heard your plea.
“The eyes of the LORD are toward the righteous and His ears are open to their cry.” Psalm 34:15
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Speak with Grace
“Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of the opportunity. Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person.” Colossians 4:5-6
Many people have become Christians due to the influence of a Christian friend or co-worker. If you ask them what was the predominant characteristic of the individual who attracted them to Christ, most would allude to a keen, unworldly sense of love and acceptance.
Treating the unbeliever in a biblical fashion is not an easy chore for some Christians. We operate on such different standards and think on such contrasting wavelengths that compatibility can be quite difficult. Despite such differences, God often uses ordinary Christians as His instruments to proclaim the gospel of Christ.
The non-Christian is just like you before you were saved, dead in sin and separated from God. The love of God can be clearly communicated to the unbeliever through upright conduct, positive conversation, and a servant spirit. Don’t judge those around you who are not Christians. Focus instead on releasing the love of Christ through your daily lifestyle.
Everybody needs the Lord even when they seemingly resist all overtures. The love and grace of God expressed through your words and deeds can be amazingly used by Him in a most wonderful way.
“Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16
Many people have become Christians due to the influence of a Christian friend or co-worker. If you ask them what was the predominant characteristic of the individual who attracted them to Christ, most would allude to a keen, unworldly sense of love and acceptance.
Treating the unbeliever in a biblical fashion is not an easy chore for some Christians. We operate on such different standards and think on such contrasting wavelengths that compatibility can be quite difficult. Despite such differences, God often uses ordinary Christians as His instruments to proclaim the gospel of Christ.
The non-Christian is just like you before you were saved, dead in sin and separated from God. The love of God can be clearly communicated to the unbeliever through upright conduct, positive conversation, and a servant spirit. Don’t judge those around you who are not Christians. Focus instead on releasing the love of Christ through your daily lifestyle.
Everybody needs the Lord even when they seemingly resist all overtures. The love and grace of God expressed through your words and deeds can be amazingly used by Him in a most wonderful way.
“Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16
Monday, March 21, 2011
Secure in Christ!
“The one who believes in the Son of God has the testimony in himself; the one who does not believe God has made Him a liar, because he has not believed in the testimony that God has given concerning His Son. And the testimony is this, that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. He who has the Son has the life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have the life. These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know that you have eternal life. This is the confidence which we have before Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests which we have asked from Him.” 1 John 5:10-15
Perhaps the most miserable people on earth are those who have trusted in Christ as Savior but battle harassing doubts concerning the assurance of their eternal security. If you find yourself swinging in and out of a sense of eternal security, you can walk on the level, unchanging ground of God’s truth. The ride of swaying doubt can end today.
Here’s why: You were saved by Christ’s performance on the cross where all your sins - past, present, and future - were forgiven. Your eternal security is grounded in the person and work of Christ, not your performance. Feelings fluctuate, especially when we sin. But nothing can cancel the reservation Christ has made in heaven for the believer since it was purchased once and for all by His sacrificial death.
Once saved, Christ takes up permanent residence in your life. He will never leave you, even if your track record as a saint is spotty. He may discipline you, and the consequences for your sin may not be pleasant. But it does not alter your eternal security. God’s love for you is unconditional, unfailing, and unchanging. He has made you His child forever, and absolutely nothing can change your identity as God’s son or daughter.
“Therefore He is able also to save forever those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them.” Hebrews 7:25
Perhaps the most miserable people on earth are those who have trusted in Christ as Savior but battle harassing doubts concerning the assurance of their eternal security. If you find yourself swinging in and out of a sense of eternal security, you can walk on the level, unchanging ground of God’s truth. The ride of swaying doubt can end today.
Here’s why: You were saved by Christ’s performance on the cross where all your sins - past, present, and future - were forgiven. Your eternal security is grounded in the person and work of Christ, not your performance. Feelings fluctuate, especially when we sin. But nothing can cancel the reservation Christ has made in heaven for the believer since it was purchased once and for all by His sacrificial death.
Once saved, Christ takes up permanent residence in your life. He will never leave you, even if your track record as a saint is spotty. He may discipline you, and the consequences for your sin may not be pleasant. But it does not alter your eternal security. God’s love for you is unconditional, unfailing, and unchanging. He has made you His child forever, and absolutely nothing can change your identity as God’s son or daughter.
“Therefore He is able also to save forever those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them.” Hebrews 7:25
Sunday, March 20, 2011
A New Covenant in His Blood
“While they were eating, Jesus took some bread, and after a blessing, He broke it and gave it to the disciples, and said, ‘Take, eat; this is My body.’ And when He had taken a cup and given thanks, He gave it to them, saying, ‘Drink from it, all of you; for this is My blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for forgiveness of sins. But I say to you, I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it new with you in My Father's kingdom.’” Matthew 26:26-29
Whenever we celebrate the Lord’s Supper, we must remember its sacred significance. It is a holy remembrance of Christ’s shed blood and its inauguration of a new covenant based on the forgiveness of sin through Christ’s death.
When you drink of the cup, realize that your fellowship with the Father is grounded on the blood of Christ. You may talk with Him and receive His friendly guidance and eternal embrace all because God chose to crucify His Son on your behalf. The barrier of sin could not be removed except by the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus. The stain of sin could not be taken away apart from His blood. The red blood of Christ on your black sin clothes you in white robes of God’s righteousness.
As you eat of the bread, think upon the fathomless love of God that divinely initiated the blood-soaked beams of Calvary. It was the love of God that sent Jesus to the cross for you and the love of God that forgives and restores you to communion with the Father. Because Jesus was broken and bloodied for you, you can enjoy the wholeness, joy, and peace of a personal, living relationship with Christ. Christ’s blood is God’s love demonstrated.
No one can be declared a child of God apart from the cross of Christ.
Whenever we celebrate the Lord’s Supper, we must remember its sacred significance. It is a holy remembrance of Christ’s shed blood and its inauguration of a new covenant based on the forgiveness of sin through Christ’s death.
When you drink of the cup, realize that your fellowship with the Father is grounded on the blood of Christ. You may talk with Him and receive His friendly guidance and eternal embrace all because God chose to crucify His Son on your behalf. The barrier of sin could not be removed except by the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus. The stain of sin could not be taken away apart from His blood. The red blood of Christ on your black sin clothes you in white robes of God’s righteousness.
As you eat of the bread, think upon the fathomless love of God that divinely initiated the blood-soaked beams of Calvary. It was the love of God that sent Jesus to the cross for you and the love of God that forgives and restores you to communion with the Father. Because Jesus was broken and bloodied for you, you can enjoy the wholeness, joy, and peace of a personal, living relationship with Christ. Christ’s blood is God’s love demonstrated.
No one can be declared a child of God apart from the cross of Christ.
Friday, March 18, 2011
The Blood of Christ
This is the testimony of John, when the Jews sent to him priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, “Who are you?” And he confessed and did not deny, but confessed, “I am not the Christ.” They asked him, “What then? Are you Elijah?” And he said, “I am not.” “Are you the Prophet?” And he answered, “No.” Then they said to him, “Who are you, so that we may give an answer to those who sent us? What do you say about yourself?” He said, “I am a voice of one crying in the wilderness, ‘Make straight the way of the Lord,’ as Isaiah the prophet said.”
Now they had been sent from the Pharisees. They asked him, and said to him, “Why then are you baptizing, if you are not the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?” John answered them saying, “I baptize in water, but among you stands One whom you do not know. It is He who comes after me, the thong of whose sandal I am not worthy to untie.” These things took place in Bethany beyond the Jordan, where John was baptizing. The next day he saw Jesus coming to him and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!” John 1:19-29
There is something about the sight of blood that strikes a sober chord in man. Whether presented with media images of blood-stained clothing or witnessing an accident with badly wounded victims, the visual aspect of spilt blood graphically reminds us of death’s reality. When the Bible speaks of Christ’s poured-out blood, it is invariably linked with His sacrificial death on Calvary for our sins.
The writer of Hebrews went to great lengths to portray Christ as God’s all-sufficient sacrifice. Apart from Christ’s shed blood, there is no gospel, no forgiveness, no justification, no sanctification. It is the blood of Christ, His death, that satisfies God’s justice and provides the means for reconciliation between sinful man and holy God.
P.T. Forsyth, a Scottish clergyman, wrote in the Cruciality of the Cross: “Christ is to us just what His cross is. All that Christ was in heaven or on earth was put into what He did there...Christ, I repeat, is to us just what His cross is. You do not understand Christ till you understand His cross.” The cross of Christ is His death. His death is His shed blood. His shed blood is the only acceptable payment for sin and the only way of access to holy God.
“...for You were slain, and purchased for God with Your blood men from every tribe...” Revelation 5:9
Now they had been sent from the Pharisees. They asked him, and said to him, “Why then are you baptizing, if you are not the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?” John answered them saying, “I baptize in water, but among you stands One whom you do not know. It is He who comes after me, the thong of whose sandal I am not worthy to untie.” These things took place in Bethany beyond the Jordan, where John was baptizing. The next day he saw Jesus coming to him and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!” John 1:19-29
There is something about the sight of blood that strikes a sober chord in man. Whether presented with media images of blood-stained clothing or witnessing an accident with badly wounded victims, the visual aspect of spilt blood graphically reminds us of death’s reality. When the Bible speaks of Christ’s poured-out blood, it is invariably linked with His sacrificial death on Calvary for our sins.
The writer of Hebrews went to great lengths to portray Christ as God’s all-sufficient sacrifice. Apart from Christ’s shed blood, there is no gospel, no forgiveness, no justification, no sanctification. It is the blood of Christ, His death, that satisfies God’s justice and provides the means for reconciliation between sinful man and holy God.
P.T. Forsyth, a Scottish clergyman, wrote in the Cruciality of the Cross: “Christ is to us just what His cross is. All that Christ was in heaven or on earth was put into what He did there...Christ, I repeat, is to us just what His cross is. You do not understand Christ till you understand His cross.” The cross of Christ is His death. His death is His shed blood. His shed blood is the only acceptable payment for sin and the only way of access to holy God.
“...for You were slain, and purchased for God with Your blood men from every tribe...” Revelation 5:9
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Jesus - The Sin-Bearer
“...and He Himself bore our sins in His body on the cross, so that we might die to sin and live to righteousness; for by His wounds you were healed. For you were continually straying like sheep, but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Guardian of your souls.
1 Peter 2:24-25
A teammate of a partially paralyzed football player tearfully told a national television audience that he would gladly take his injured friend’s place. What a noble gesture! But, of course, it only could be a well-intentioned desire, for despite his empathy, he could not assume his friend’s painful condition.
Yet the miracle of the incarnation was not just that infinite God became finite flesh, but that He did so in order to bear all our sin on the cross. In God’s magnificent mercy, our sin was heaped onto Jesus’ sinless deity at Calvary’s holy tree. Jesus did not merely sympathize with our helpless plight; He bore the penalty of our sin - spiritual and physical death - so we might be unshackled from death’s horrible irons.
He did this through the substitutionary sacrifice of His Son. Jesus was punished in your place and died for your sins, bearing the full wrath of the Father. Your sin debt has been paid. Jesus became sin for you so you might be restored to a right relationship with Him by faith in His glorious work.
The Sin-Bearer has finished His task. Have you trusted Him for the gift of eternal life? Have you thanked Him for going to the tree on your behalf and dying your death?
“...But the LORD has caused the iniquity of us all to fall on Him.” Isaiah 53:6
1 Peter 2:24-25
A teammate of a partially paralyzed football player tearfully told a national television audience that he would gladly take his injured friend’s place. What a noble gesture! But, of course, it only could be a well-intentioned desire, for despite his empathy, he could not assume his friend’s painful condition.
Yet the miracle of the incarnation was not just that infinite God became finite flesh, but that He did so in order to bear all our sin on the cross. In God’s magnificent mercy, our sin was heaped onto Jesus’ sinless deity at Calvary’s holy tree. Jesus did not merely sympathize with our helpless plight; He bore the penalty of our sin - spiritual and physical death - so we might be unshackled from death’s horrible irons.
He did this through the substitutionary sacrifice of His Son. Jesus was punished in your place and died for your sins, bearing the full wrath of the Father. Your sin debt has been paid. Jesus became sin for you so you might be restored to a right relationship with Him by faith in His glorious work.
The Sin-Bearer has finished His task. Have you trusted Him for the gift of eternal life? Have you thanked Him for going to the tree on your behalf and dying your death?
“...But the LORD has caused the iniquity of us all to fall on Him.” Isaiah 53:6
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Our Weakness - His Grace
“Because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, for this reason, to keep me from exalting myself, there was given me a thorn in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to torment me--to keep me from exalting myself! Concerning this I implored the Lord three times that it might leave me. And He has said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.’ Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. Therefore I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ's sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong.” 2 Corinthians 12:7-10
God often uses our weaknesses to strengthen and refine us spiritually. The apostle Paul experienced this truth through what he called “a thorn in the flesh.” While we don’t know the nature of his infirmity, we do know the reason it was given. Within Paul’s life was a temptation to become prideful over all he had learned and received spiritually.
God used a physical weakness to sharpen Paul’s spiritual focus. Three times the apostle beseeched God to remove his suffering, and three times God told him: “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness” (2 Cor. 12:9).
Our weakest moments are but opportunities for God to reveal His greatest truths to our hearts. His objective in allowing these times is never to destroy us but to bring us to a wondrous point of total dependence on Him. God used the negative circumstance of Paul’s life to achieve the greatest results - glorification of Jesus Christ. Learn to respond prayerfully to times of weakness.
Ask God to show you the purpose for what you are facing and give you His wisdom and strength to handle the situation according to His will for your life.
“In all thy fiery trials, His presence is both thy comfort and safety.” -C.H. Spurgeon
God often uses our weaknesses to strengthen and refine us spiritually. The apostle Paul experienced this truth through what he called “a thorn in the flesh.” While we don’t know the nature of his infirmity, we do know the reason it was given. Within Paul’s life was a temptation to become prideful over all he had learned and received spiritually.
God used a physical weakness to sharpen Paul’s spiritual focus. Three times the apostle beseeched God to remove his suffering, and three times God told him: “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness” (2 Cor. 12:9).
Our weakest moments are but opportunities for God to reveal His greatest truths to our hearts. His objective in allowing these times is never to destroy us but to bring us to a wondrous point of total dependence on Him. God used the negative circumstance of Paul’s life to achieve the greatest results - glorification of Jesus Christ. Learn to respond prayerfully to times of weakness.
Ask God to show you the purpose for what you are facing and give you His wisdom and strength to handle the situation according to His will for your life.
“In all thy fiery trials, His presence is both thy comfort and safety.” -C.H. Spurgeon
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Right Goal - Wrong Method, Part 2
“...and the LORD sent you on a mission, and said, ‘Go and utterly destroy the sinners, the Amalekites, and fight against them until they are exterminated.’ Why then did you not obey the voice of the LORD, but rushed upon the spoil and did what was evil in the sight of the LORD?” Then Saul said to Samuel, “I did obey the voice of the LORD, and went on the mission on which the LORD sent me, and have brought back Agag the king of Amalek, and have utterly destroyed the Amalekites. But the people took some of the spoil, sheep and oxen, the choicest of the things devoted to destruction, to sacrifice to the LORD your God at Gilgal.”
Samuel said,
“Has the LORD as much delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as in obeying the voice of the LORD?
Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed than the fat of rams. For rebellion is as the sin of divination, and insubordination is as iniquity and idolatry because you have rejected the word of the LORD, He has also rejected you from being king.”
Then Saul said to Samuel, “I have sinned; I have indeed transgressed the command of the LORD and your words, because I feared the people and listened to their voice.” 1 Samuel 15:18-24
Saul wanted to be a good king - one that ruled fairly and followed the ways of God. However, his motives were not pure. And for the most part, this flaw went undetected until he was faced with a tremendous decision. God had told him to completely destroy the Amalekites in battle. They had ruthlessly pursued Israel after the Exodus, killing the weak and disabled; and God never forgot the evil they committed against His people.
Saul complied with the Lord’s command and headed into battle. However, once the dust settled, he decided to spare the Amalekite king, his strongest fighting men, and the best of his sheep and oxen. Saul tried in vain to convince Samuel that he had obeyed God by saving the best of the spoils as a sacrifice. But it was not obedience that motivated Saul; it was pride, and it cost him his throne.
Partial obedience is not obedience; it is disobedience, and there is never an excuse for it in the eyes of God. Whatever goal God has placed before you, He has a method in mind for you to follow in achieving it. Ask Him to give you His wisdom so you may accomplish the goal perfectly completely - and most importantly - obediently. Make Jesus Christ the focus of your life - nothing else must ever lay siege to your affections.
Samuel said,
“Has the LORD as much delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as in obeying the voice of the LORD?
Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed than the fat of rams. For rebellion is as the sin of divination, and insubordination is as iniquity and idolatry because you have rejected the word of the LORD, He has also rejected you from being king.”
Then Saul said to Samuel, “I have sinned; I have indeed transgressed the command of the LORD and your words, because I feared the people and listened to their voice.” 1 Samuel 15:18-24
Saul wanted to be a good king - one that ruled fairly and followed the ways of God. However, his motives were not pure. And for the most part, this flaw went undetected until he was faced with a tremendous decision. God had told him to completely destroy the Amalekites in battle. They had ruthlessly pursued Israel after the Exodus, killing the weak and disabled; and God never forgot the evil they committed against His people.
Saul complied with the Lord’s command and headed into battle. However, once the dust settled, he decided to spare the Amalekite king, his strongest fighting men, and the best of his sheep and oxen. Saul tried in vain to convince Samuel that he had obeyed God by saving the best of the spoils as a sacrifice. But it was not obedience that motivated Saul; it was pride, and it cost him his throne.
Partial obedience is not obedience; it is disobedience, and there is never an excuse for it in the eyes of God. Whatever goal God has placed before you, He has a method in mind for you to follow in achieving it. Ask Him to give you His wisdom so you may accomplish the goal perfectly completely - and most importantly - obediently. Make Jesus Christ the focus of your life - nothing else must ever lay siege to your affections.
Monday, March 14, 2011
Right Goal - Wrong Method, Part 1
“Therefore no one is to act as your judge in regard to food or drink or in respect to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath day--things which are a mere shadow of what is to come; but the substance belongs to Christ. Let no one keep defrauding you of your prize by delighting in self-abasement and the worship of the angels, taking his stand on visions he has seen, inflated without cause by his fleshly mind, and not holding fast to the head, from whom the entire body, being supplied and held together by the joints and ligaments, grows with a growth which is from God. If you have died with Christ to the elementary principles of the world, why, as if you were living in the world, do you submit yourself to decrees, such as, ‘Do not handle, do not taste, do not touch!’ (which all refer to things destined to perish with use)--in accordance with the commandments and teachings of men? These are matters which have, to be sure, the appearance of wisdom in self-made religion and self-abasement and severe treatment of the body, but are of no value against fleshly indulgence.” Colossians 2:16-23
The tackler could see it coming - a fullback carrying the football loosely at his side. A sudden turn and the tackler lunged after the ball. It popped loose and spiraled toward the ground. He started to dive on the ball, but it bounce just high enough for him to pick it up and run.
Breaking free from the other players, he started running down the football field as fast as he could run. The crowd was shouting wildly as he crossed the goal line and pounded the ball proudly in the dirt. It was his first touchdown of his high school career - and perhaps his last - he had run into the wrong end zone.
We often have the right goal in mind spiritually when tackling the Christian faith but wind up in the wrong end zone. The Colossian believers had a sincere desire to serve God. However, they had become entangled in legalism and were imposing unrealistic demands on young believers. They had also begun judging actions of others.
The moment we think we have it together enough to judge another person is the moment we run into the wrong end zone. Paul described legalism as a bondage. Don’t get caught up in it. Instead...“keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery” (Gal. 5:1).
“Are you so foolish? Having begun by the Spirit, are you now being perfected by the flesh?” Galatians 3:3
The tackler could see it coming - a fullback carrying the football loosely at his side. A sudden turn and the tackler lunged after the ball. It popped loose and spiraled toward the ground. He started to dive on the ball, but it bounce just high enough for him to pick it up and run.
Breaking free from the other players, he started running down the football field as fast as he could run. The crowd was shouting wildly as he crossed the goal line and pounded the ball proudly in the dirt. It was his first touchdown of his high school career - and perhaps his last - he had run into the wrong end zone.
We often have the right goal in mind spiritually when tackling the Christian faith but wind up in the wrong end zone. The Colossian believers had a sincere desire to serve God. However, they had become entangled in legalism and were imposing unrealistic demands on young believers. They had also begun judging actions of others.
The moment we think we have it together enough to judge another person is the moment we run into the wrong end zone. Paul described legalism as a bondage. Don’t get caught up in it. Instead...“keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery” (Gal. 5:1).
“Are you so foolish? Having begun by the Spirit, are you now being perfected by the flesh?” Galatians 3:3
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Walk in the Light
“...and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.” John 8:32
“So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed.” John 8:36
Jesus told His disciples: “If you continue in My word, then...you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free” (John 8:31-32). Christ knew His followers would face many temptations once He was gone. This is why He wanted them to focus on the truth of His Word, not the instability and spiritual darkness of the world around them.
As long as Christ was with them, the disciples followed with ease. Then came the night of His arrest, and Jesus was gone. However, instead of walking in the light of His truth, they allowed fear to capture their hearts. Many people struggle with emotional or physical bondage because they walk in the dim light of their own desires and resources, not the light of God’s Word.
Christ said: “I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life” (John 8:12). The hope we have as believers is the fact that Christ is our Source of light.
You may be struggling with something that has held you captive for years. Now is the time to ask God to help you face it and deal with it by submitting it to His control. Then claim the victory that is yours through the power of His Spirit. No matter what you are facing, there is hope in the light of God’s truth.
“So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed.” John 8:36
“So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed.” John 8:36
Jesus told His disciples: “If you continue in My word, then...you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free” (John 8:31-32). Christ knew His followers would face many temptations once He was gone. This is why He wanted them to focus on the truth of His Word, not the instability and spiritual darkness of the world around them.
As long as Christ was with them, the disciples followed with ease. Then came the night of His arrest, and Jesus was gone. However, instead of walking in the light of His truth, they allowed fear to capture their hearts. Many people struggle with emotional or physical bondage because they walk in the dim light of their own desires and resources, not the light of God’s Word.
Christ said: “I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life” (John 8:12). The hope we have as believers is the fact that Christ is our Source of light.
You may be struggling with something that has held you captive for years. Now is the time to ask God to help you face it and deal with it by submitting it to His control. Then claim the victory that is yours through the power of His Spirit. No matter what you are facing, there is hope in the light of God’s truth.
“So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed.” John 8:36
Friday, March 11, 2011
Freedom From Bondage
“Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.” Ephesians 4:31-32
The young man told of the anger and bitterness that was consuming his life. Finally, in frustration he said, “I feel trapped just like a bird tied to a short tether. I want to be free, but it doesn’t seem possible.” Many believers feel just as trapped as this man. For years they have been bound by old habits, feelings, or physical addictions that God never meant for them to bear.
One of the first steps to freedom from bondage is acceptance. You must accept God’s personal love for you. No matter what your circumstances may be - Jesus loves you.
The second step is to ask God to forgive and cleanse you from any sin in your life. Forgiveness of others is also a key factor. Until we forgive those who have hurt us, we will never experience true freedom.
A third step is being honest with God about your feelings and weaknesses. If you have suffered disappointment, tell Him about it. He cares and wants you to know that you can bring anything to Him in prayer.
A final step toward freedom is to ask God to help you gain His perspective on your situation. God is your dearest friend. He promises to take care of you and provide for your deepest needs. Ask Him to reveal His personal love for you and the grace that is yours in Christ.
God wants all the negative attitudes out of your life so you can become the person He wants you to be.
The young man told of the anger and bitterness that was consuming his life. Finally, in frustration he said, “I feel trapped just like a bird tied to a short tether. I want to be free, but it doesn’t seem possible.” Many believers feel just as trapped as this man. For years they have been bound by old habits, feelings, or physical addictions that God never meant for them to bear.
One of the first steps to freedom from bondage is acceptance. You must accept God’s personal love for you. No matter what your circumstances may be - Jesus loves you.
The second step is to ask God to forgive and cleanse you from any sin in your life. Forgiveness of others is also a key factor. Until we forgive those who have hurt us, we will never experience true freedom.
A third step is being honest with God about your feelings and weaknesses. If you have suffered disappointment, tell Him about it. He cares and wants you to know that you can bring anything to Him in prayer.
A final step toward freedom is to ask God to help you gain His perspective on your situation. God is your dearest friend. He promises to take care of you and provide for your deepest needs. Ask Him to reveal His personal love for you and the grace that is yours in Christ.
God wants all the negative attitudes out of your life so you can become the person He wants you to be.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Be a Doer of the Word
“But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves.” James 1:22
James uses the word “dispersed” in verse 1:1 to indicate the plight of early Christians living outside Palestine. God used Nero’s persecution to scatter thousands of believers throughout Asia Minor so the gospel message would continue to grow and spread.
However, instead of carrying the Word of God to new converts, believers became spiritually bogged down by sin. Gossip, selfishness, and the pursuit of material gain caused deep division within the church. Almost overnight their focus had changed from the deeper things of God to envy and strife.
At the center of their problems was a lack of spiritual maturity. They had learned to talk the talk, but failed to walk the Christian walk of faith. We face the same problem. Many go to church, give, even read their Bibles but fail to grow spiritually.
James admonished the early church to be more than mere hearers of the Word; he urged them to be doers of the Word. The formula for personal, spiritual growth is applying God’s truth to every area of your life. Practice this and the seed He plants within your heart will yield a great and mighty harvest.
“Too many Christians mark their Bibles, but their Bibles never mark them.” -Warren Wiersbe
James uses the word “dispersed” in verse 1:1 to indicate the plight of early Christians living outside Palestine. God used Nero’s persecution to scatter thousands of believers throughout Asia Minor so the gospel message would continue to grow and spread.
However, instead of carrying the Word of God to new converts, believers became spiritually bogged down by sin. Gossip, selfishness, and the pursuit of material gain caused deep division within the church. Almost overnight their focus had changed from the deeper things of God to envy and strife.
At the center of their problems was a lack of spiritual maturity. They had learned to talk the talk, but failed to walk the Christian walk of faith. We face the same problem. Many go to church, give, even read their Bibles but fail to grow spiritually.
James admonished the early church to be more than mere hearers of the Word; he urged them to be doers of the Word. The formula for personal, spiritual growth is applying God’s truth to every area of your life. Practice this and the seed He plants within your heart will yield a great and mighty harvest.
“Too many Christians mark their Bibles, but their Bibles never mark them.” -Warren Wiersbe
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
It’s God’s Timing - Not Ours
“Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.” Romans 12:1-2
Ours is a world of satellites, lasers, car phones, and ATMs. Faxes zoom across telephone lines and computers arrange daily schedules with supreme accuracy. We do email, texting, and twitter. Because of this, we have learned to demand instant results.
The tendency to try to become super Christians within a very short time is grave. It is almost as if we believe that in order to please God we must become “better” - quickly. However, God does not work this way. He wants our love and devotion to overflow from hearts naturally, not forcibly, turned toward Him. We cannot hurry or fax our way into spiritual growth. It takes time - quality time spent with God.
This is how God weeds out old, sinful habits and replants His renewing truths within our hearts and minds. He knows in order to produce maximum growth there must be maximum care and nurturing. God slowly reshapes our lives until they are molded into the image of His Son.
Never become discouraged by what seems to be a long time during your spiritual growth. God’s timetable is not ours. And if you will seek Him above everything else, you will receive all he has for you within His timing.
“Faithful is He who calls you and He also will bring it to pass.” 1 Thessalonians 5:24
Ours is a world of satellites, lasers, car phones, and ATMs. Faxes zoom across telephone lines and computers arrange daily schedules with supreme accuracy. We do email, texting, and twitter. Because of this, we have learned to demand instant results.
The tendency to try to become super Christians within a very short time is grave. It is almost as if we believe that in order to please God we must become “better” - quickly. However, God does not work this way. He wants our love and devotion to overflow from hearts naturally, not forcibly, turned toward Him. We cannot hurry or fax our way into spiritual growth. It takes time - quality time spent with God.
This is how God weeds out old, sinful habits and replants His renewing truths within our hearts and minds. He knows in order to produce maximum growth there must be maximum care and nurturing. God slowly reshapes our lives until they are molded into the image of His Son.
Never become discouraged by what seems to be a long time during your spiritual growth. God’s timetable is not ours. And if you will seek Him above everything else, you will receive all he has for you within His timing.
“Faithful is He who calls you and He also will bring it to pass.” 1 Thessalonians 5:24
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Keep a Positive Attitude
“Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things.” Philippians 4:8
“I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.”
Philippians 4:13
At the end of the day’s practice, the high school football coach called his team together and said, “Men, if you want to be winners, you must think and act like winners. From now on, I don’t want to hear anyone being negative about themselves or another player. Encourage one another, cheer for one another, and help one another learn more about this game.”
The results of the coach’s words were dramatic. Within two games it was obvious the team was on its way to a winning season. They had gained a new mindset by focusing on the positive, not the negative. Instead of worrying about fumbling the ball, they tucked it against their sides and often raced for the end zone.
The way we think has a tremendous impact on our spiritual growth. If we concentrate on the negative, we will never live on the positive side of life. Christ wants us to learn to focus only on Him and His will for our lives.
God’s view of us is never cast in light of the negative. From His perspective we are winners, not because of what we have done, but because of His Son and His life within us. Ask Him to help you live each day from His perspective, and you will gain a winner’s mindset. Remember - A winner never quits, because a quitter never wins!
“I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.”
Philippians 4:13
At the end of the day’s practice, the high school football coach called his team together and said, “Men, if you want to be winners, you must think and act like winners. From now on, I don’t want to hear anyone being negative about themselves or another player. Encourage one another, cheer for one another, and help one another learn more about this game.”
The results of the coach’s words were dramatic. Within two games it was obvious the team was on its way to a winning season. They had gained a new mindset by focusing on the positive, not the negative. Instead of worrying about fumbling the ball, they tucked it against their sides and often raced for the end zone.
The way we think has a tremendous impact on our spiritual growth. If we concentrate on the negative, we will never live on the positive side of life. Christ wants us to learn to focus only on Him and His will for our lives.
God’s view of us is never cast in light of the negative. From His perspective we are winners, not because of what we have done, but because of His Son and His life within us. Ask Him to help you live each day from His perspective, and you will gain a winner’s mindset. Remember - A winner never quits, because a quitter never wins!
Monday, March 7, 2011
A Test of Growth
“Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear. Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.” Ephesians 4:29-32
Corrie Ten Boom tells of a time she learned an important aspect of spiritual growth. It was 1947 and she had just finished speaking of God’s forgiveness to a group in a small German church. The audience was still haunted by memories of war. Yet the message they heard that day brought a sense of hope. They could forgive those who treated them so cruelly and go on with life.
As the service concluded, Corrie noticed a heavyset man coming toward her. Instantly, she remembered him. He had been a guard at the concentration camp where she had been imprisoned. “I know God has forgiven me for the things I did,” he said. “But I would like to hear it from your lips. Will you forgive me?”
“It was the most difficult thing I had ever had to do,” she writes. “I thrust my hand into the one stretched out to me. And as I did, an incredible thing took place. [A] healing warmth seemed to flood my whole being, bringing tears to my eyes. ‘I forgive you, brother!’”
One of the ways we measure spiritual growth is by the way we extend our arms of forgiveness to others. In doing so, remember that Jesus extended His arms completely for you at Calvary. Is there someone you need to forgive? Remember He has forgiven you and gave you the grace to forgive others.
Corrie Ten Boom tells of a time she learned an important aspect of spiritual growth. It was 1947 and she had just finished speaking of God’s forgiveness to a group in a small German church. The audience was still haunted by memories of war. Yet the message they heard that day brought a sense of hope. They could forgive those who treated them so cruelly and go on with life.
As the service concluded, Corrie noticed a heavyset man coming toward her. Instantly, she remembered him. He had been a guard at the concentration camp where she had been imprisoned. “I know God has forgiven me for the things I did,” he said. “But I would like to hear it from your lips. Will you forgive me?”
“It was the most difficult thing I had ever had to do,” she writes. “I thrust my hand into the one stretched out to me. And as I did, an incredible thing took place. [A] healing warmth seemed to flood my whole being, bringing tears to my eyes. ‘I forgive you, brother!’”
One of the ways we measure spiritual growth is by the way we extend our arms of forgiveness to others. In doing so, remember that Jesus extended His arms completely for you at Calvary. Is there someone you need to forgive? Remember He has forgiven you and gave you the grace to forgive others.
Sunday, March 6, 2011
We’re Called to Grow
“You therefore, beloved, knowing this beforehand, be on your guard so that you are not carried away by the error of unprincipled men and fall from your own steadfastness, but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ To Him be the glory, both now and to the day of eternity. Amen.” 2 Peter 3:17-18
Many think tennis is a game of power and strength, but it is much more. It is also a game of strategy and endurance. Hours of practice and dedication are needed if one wants to become a better player.
The Christians Peter addressed had gained a great deal of spiritual knowledge over the years; but they stopped growing spiritually. They thought they knew all they needed to know. The spiritual danger was not the temptation to deny their faith, but to become complacent and drawn away by a lack of spiritual dedication. Peter exhorted them to be on guard lest they be carried away by error. Spiritual growth is not meant for a season; it is to be a lifetime activity.
The measure of our spiritual growth is always found in Christ. The more time we spend with Him, the more we become like Him. Ask Him to help you make a commitment to Him and His Word. Dedication, endurance, and practice of the things of God is the winning combination for spiritual growth.
Many think tennis is a game of power and strength, but it is much more. It is also a game of strategy and endurance. Hours of practice and dedication are needed if one wants to become a better player.
The Christians Peter addressed had gained a great deal of spiritual knowledge over the years; but they stopped growing spiritually. They thought they knew all they needed to know. The spiritual danger was not the temptation to deny their faith, but to become complacent and drawn away by a lack of spiritual dedication. Peter exhorted them to be on guard lest they be carried away by error. Spiritual growth is not meant for a season; it is to be a lifetime activity.
The measure of our spiritual growth is always found in Christ. The more time we spend with Him, the more we become like Him. Ask Him to help you make a commitment to Him and His Word. Dedication, endurance, and practice of the things of God is the winning combination for spiritual growth.
Friday, March 4, 2011
Who To Go To...
There came a woman of Samaria to draw water. Jesus said to her, “Give Me a drink.” For His disciples had gone away into the city to buy food. Therefore the Samaritan woman said to Him, “How is it that You, being a Jew, ask me for a drink since I am a Samaritan woman?” (For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans.) Jesus answered and said to her, “If you knew the gift of God, and who it is who says to you, ‘Give Me a drink,’ you would have asked Him, and He would have given you living water.” She said to Him, “Sir, You have nothing to draw with and the well is deep; where then do You get that living water? You are not greater than our father Jacob, are You, who gave us the well, and drank of it himself and his sons and his cattle?”
Jesus answered and said to her, “Everyone who drinks of this water will thirst again; but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him shall never thirst; but the water that I will give him will become in him a well of water springing up to eternal life.” The woman said to Him, “Sir, give me this water, so I will not be thirsty nor come all the way here to draw.” He said to her, “Go, call your husband and come here.” The woman answered and said, “I have no husband.” Jesus said to her, “You have correctly said, ‘I have no husband’; for you have had five husbands, and the one whom you now have is not your husband; this you have said truly.” John 4:7-18
In a sad, popular country song several years ago, the singer recalled his past romances. “Lookin’ for love in all the wrong places” was how he summed up his failure to find love that truly satisfied his heart and need for acceptance.
The Samaritan woman certainly knew how it felt to miss out on love. She had been married five times and was living with a man who wasn’t her husband when she met Jesus. This woman had faced five rejections - how bruised and scarred her emotions must have been. She went to the well at the hottest part of the day just to avoid the scorn and disapproval of her neighbors.
Jesus’ words cut straight to her hurts and deepest desires: “whoever drinks of the water that I will give him shall never thirst; but the water that I will give him will become in him a well of water springing up to eternal life” (verse 14).
Have you tried to find complete fulfillment in human relationships? Jesus’ love is eternal, unchanging, sustaining; all other affections are temporary and someday prove disappointing. You can trust in the Savior who will not let you down or leave you comfortless. Jesus is the person to go to when you are look for true love.
Jesus answered and said to her, “Everyone who drinks of this water will thirst again; but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him shall never thirst; but the water that I will give him will become in him a well of water springing up to eternal life.” The woman said to Him, “Sir, give me this water, so I will not be thirsty nor come all the way here to draw.” He said to her, “Go, call your husband and come here.” The woman answered and said, “I have no husband.” Jesus said to her, “You have correctly said, ‘I have no husband’; for you have had five husbands, and the one whom you now have is not your husband; this you have said truly.” John 4:7-18
In a sad, popular country song several years ago, the singer recalled his past romances. “Lookin’ for love in all the wrong places” was how he summed up his failure to find love that truly satisfied his heart and need for acceptance.
The Samaritan woman certainly knew how it felt to miss out on love. She had been married five times and was living with a man who wasn’t her husband when she met Jesus. This woman had faced five rejections - how bruised and scarred her emotions must have been. She went to the well at the hottest part of the day just to avoid the scorn and disapproval of her neighbors.
Jesus’ words cut straight to her hurts and deepest desires: “whoever drinks of the water that I will give him shall never thirst; but the water that I will give him will become in him a well of water springing up to eternal life” (verse 14).
Have you tried to find complete fulfillment in human relationships? Jesus’ love is eternal, unchanging, sustaining; all other affections are temporary and someday prove disappointing. You can trust in the Savior who will not let you down or leave you comfortless. Jesus is the person to go to when you are look for true love.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Be on the Alert
“So this I say, and affirm together with the Lord, that you walk no longer just as the Gentiles also walk, in the futility of their mind, being darkened in their understanding, excluded from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, because of the hardness of their heart; and they, having become callous, have given themselves over to sensuality for the practice of every kind of impurity with greediness. But you did not learn Christ in this way...” Ephesians 4:17-20
As Paul ministered throughout Asia, he discovered a widespread spiritual danger among believers - a hardened heart. We may think it’s next to impossible for us to fall victim to this problem, but think for a moment of the things we witness on television each day. Sexual immorality, violence, and disrespect for authority are favorite themes for programming. Many times we listen and watch out of boredom without a clue to what this type of message is doing to our spiritual well-being. The moment we brush off immorality of any kind, we ignore it’s greater effect.
God calls us to lives of purity. Jesus prayed that while we were in the world we would remain separate from its influences. This comes only as we refuse to become involved in things that are in opposition to God’s holiness. Genuine love songs on the radio are fine, but lust songs about adulterous affairs should prompt us to question what we are hearing.
The people who struggled with hardened hearts in the New Testament weren’t lost sinners. They were believers like us who opened themselves up to the temptations of the world. Ask God to help you remain pure and reveal any area where hardness to Him and His will is occurring.
As Paul ministered throughout Asia, he discovered a widespread spiritual danger among believers - a hardened heart. We may think it’s next to impossible for us to fall victim to this problem, but think for a moment of the things we witness on television each day. Sexual immorality, violence, and disrespect for authority are favorite themes for programming. Many times we listen and watch out of boredom without a clue to what this type of message is doing to our spiritual well-being. The moment we brush off immorality of any kind, we ignore it’s greater effect.
God calls us to lives of purity. Jesus prayed that while we were in the world we would remain separate from its influences. This comes only as we refuse to become involved in things that are in opposition to God’s holiness. Genuine love songs on the radio are fine, but lust songs about adulterous affairs should prompt us to question what we are hearing.
The people who struggled with hardened hearts in the New Testament weren’t lost sinners. They were believers like us who opened themselves up to the temptations of the world. Ask God to help you remain pure and reveal any area where hardness to Him and His will is occurring.
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Come Unto Me...
“Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30
The employee had two major projects due in less than a week - both required staying late at the office. Looking at his calendar, he realized he had planned to take his wife out of town for the weekend. It was also their son’s fifteenth birthday on Saturday. This usually was celebrated with a father and son night out. Adding to the stress, his mother telephoned to say her hot water heater wasn’t working properly.
Suddenly, the pressure seemed overwhelming. This is when a coworker appeared at his door, demanding his signature on a project he knew was less than average. Before he realized it, he made it clear how he felt about life and his job.
“I wish I could leave and run away,” he confessed to a friend over lunch. “I don’t understand how things I normally love to do can cause so much pressure.” When stress runs high, it doesn’t take much to drive us over the edge emotionally.
But you can take control of your circumstances by organizing your time and eliminating things from your schedule that demand more than you can give. Ask God for wisdom in planning your agenda. Remember, His burden is light when you allow Him to carry the weight of your circumstances (Matt. 11:29-30).
The employee had two major projects due in less than a week - both required staying late at the office. Looking at his calendar, he realized he had planned to take his wife out of town for the weekend. It was also their son’s fifteenth birthday on Saturday. This usually was celebrated with a father and son night out. Adding to the stress, his mother telephoned to say her hot water heater wasn’t working properly.
Suddenly, the pressure seemed overwhelming. This is when a coworker appeared at his door, demanding his signature on a project he knew was less than average. Before he realized it, he made it clear how he felt about life and his job.
“I wish I could leave and run away,” he confessed to a friend over lunch. “I don’t understand how things I normally love to do can cause so much pressure.” When stress runs high, it doesn’t take much to drive us over the edge emotionally.
But you can take control of your circumstances by organizing your time and eliminating things from your schedule that demand more than you can give. Ask God for wisdom in planning your agenda. Remember, His burden is light when you allow Him to carry the weight of your circumstances (Matt. 11:29-30).
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Relax, Rejoice, and Pray
“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things.” Philippians 4:4-8
When circumstances come that leave you feeling insecure and out of control, try asking yourself, “How would Jesus want me to respond?” The moment you approach the situation from this standpoint, you can gain God’s perspective.
Even though the difficulty may be something as simple as a disagreement with a co-worker or friend, God is interested in your response. Prayer plays tremendous role in solving disputes. Ask God to help you do the “right thing” and not become prideful. Realize He has a purpose for every circumstance you encounter.
Hold fast to truth concerning your position as a believer. If you are saved, Christ lives within you. You are precious to Him. He is your protection and defense. Your spiritual position is secured. There’s no need to become fractious or defensive.
When trouble comes, go to God in prayer. Ask Him to show you His truth about your circumstances; then practice giving Him your anxiety, fear, and anger. Allow Him to provide the wisdom you need to maintain peace in a stressful situation. Living above your circumstances is easer once you understand that Christ is your Defender and eternal Friend.
When circumstances come that leave you feeling insecure and out of control, try asking yourself, “How would Jesus want me to respond?” The moment you approach the situation from this standpoint, you can gain God’s perspective.
Even though the difficulty may be something as simple as a disagreement with a co-worker or friend, God is interested in your response. Prayer plays tremendous role in solving disputes. Ask God to help you do the “right thing” and not become prideful. Realize He has a purpose for every circumstance you encounter.
Hold fast to truth concerning your position as a believer. If you are saved, Christ lives within you. You are precious to Him. He is your protection and defense. Your spiritual position is secured. There’s no need to become fractious or defensive.
When trouble comes, go to God in prayer. Ask Him to show you His truth about your circumstances; then practice giving Him your anxiety, fear, and anger. Allow Him to provide the wisdom you need to maintain peace in a stressful situation. Living above your circumstances is easer once you understand that Christ is your Defender and eternal Friend.
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