God's Condition for His Full Blessing

God's Condition for His Full Blessing
Romans 12:1-2
The Lord wants to give each of us an abundance of blessings. Let’s explore what is required so that we may enjoy all that He has planned.
Today’s passage clarifies the one necessary condition for receiving His best: full surrender. Every aspect of our being—body, soul, and spirit—is to be a living sacrifice. This may sound dreary, but contrary to human logic, true freedom is found only when we fully yield to Christ.
In the Old Testament, sacrifice was very common. To atone for sin, a person could bring a lamb to the altar. The animal was set apart for God’s purposes as a holy offering, and through its death, restitution was made.
When we give ourselves as a sacrifice, there is, thankfully, no need for our blood to be shed. Jesus died to atone for all our sin. But out of love and gratitude, every aspect of our lives should be dedicated to Him.
What does a surrendered life entail? Most importantly, it involves complete commitment to Christ, unaltered by the world’s influence. Our desires and old ways of functioning are no longer driving forces. Instead, His Spirit guides, and His will is the goal. Yielding to Him means following His way in attitude, words, thoughts, and deeds—and doing so unapologetically, unwaveringly, fearlessly.
You have a choice—either be content with less than God’s best, or give yourself fully to Him. Complete surrender is not an easy road; it means dying to your desires and selfishness. But remember that the Lord is willing and able to do more than we can even imagine.

Malachi charges the Israelites with robbing God and refusing to acknowledge it.

Malachi 3

Malachi charges the Israelites with robbing God and refusing to acknowledge it.

INSIGHT

The Israelites who returned to Jerusalem have grown comfortable, complacent, and arrogantly insensitive. Through His messenger Malachi, God confronts the Israelites with their complacency. He charges that the priests are despising His name and defiling His altar. God says He will no longer accept their offerings. He states that the Israelites have been wearisome to Him with their words. God asks them to return to Him. He reproaches them for robbing Him. The Israelites have hardened their hearts, and they no longer feel the pull of God in their lives. The result is a barren period of 400 years with no word from God. Be certain that you respond to the work of God in your heart—lest you experience spiritual barrenness.

PRAYER

Praise the Lord for enriching our lives when we follow Him:
Inasmuch as there is none like You, O Lord
(You are great, and Your name is great in might),
Who would not fear You, O King of the nations?
For this is Your rightful due,
For among all the wise men of the nations,
And in all their kingdoms,
There is none like You (Jeremiah 10:6-7).

Pray this confession to the Lord to keep your life free from sin:
Out of the depths I have cried to You, O Lord;
Lord, hear my voice!
Let Your ears be attentive
To the voice of my supplications.
If You, Lord, should mark iniquities,
O Lord, who could stand?
But there is forgiveness with You,
That You may be feared (Psalm 130:1-4).

Confess any sins that the Holy Spirit brings to mind.

Now pray this affirmation to the Lord:
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8).

As you make your requests known to the Lord, include:

• Growth as you pursue your full potential as a child of God
• The fulfillment of the Great Commission
• Your activities for the day

Offer this closing prayer to God:
Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
Be acceptable in Your sight,
O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer (Psalm 19:14).

Jesus Came To Heal Our Broken Lives

Jesus Came To Heal Our Broken Lives
God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power; who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with Him (Acts 10:38)
     I remember a nursery rhyme that said "humpty-dumpty sat on a wall, humpty-dumpty had a great fall, all the king's horses, and all the king's men could not put humpty together again.  This nursery rhyme is all about an egg wearing pants, but it reminds me of the fragile state of man.  Life is tough, and people are so full of fear that they sit on the walls of their lives trying to protect what is theirs. Eventually, they grow weary and tired.  Pretty soon, either out of falling asleep or being spooked by life itself, they lose their balance and come crashing down and end up on the ground, broken.  It is bad news to know that there are so many people in this condition.  The good news for those people is that Jesus is anointed and able to put broken pieces of our lives, back together again; no matter how sick, broken, or sinful they are. 
     In the 5th chapter of St Mark, Jesus encounters a demonized man by the name of Legion (verses 1-20).  This man is said to have had, an unclean spirit.  He lived among the tombs, had extraordinary strength that could not be contained by chains or shackles, frequently screamed, and cut him self.  This man was controlled by Satan and his demons.  Jesus came, recognized his condition, commanded the unclean spirits to come out of him, and of course they obeyed.  In this same chapter, Mark intertwines two more stories that further reveal Jesus' power to heal and meet all of our needs.  As Jesus is making his way through a large crowd, a hemorrhaging woman was there trying to get to Him (verses 21-25).  Her constant bleeding over the past 12 years kept her continuously unclean.  According to the Law, anyone who touched her would also become unclean (Leviticus 15:25-33).  Like Legion, she was an outcast because of her condition.  After touching the hem of Jesus' garment, she was made whole.  In that same crowd, there was a synagogue ruler named Jabirus who came to Jesus and fell at His feet, begging Him to heal his daughter, who lay near death at home.  Jesus agreed to go.  On their way through the crowd, word came that his daughter was dead.  Jesus told him, only believe.  Jesus arrived at Jairus' house, took her by the hand and restored her to life (verse 22-43). 
     It seems as if everybody is going through something these days.  Some are dealing with spiritual crisis, some physical situations, and even some financial problems.  Whatever it is that we are dealing with it is good to know that we are not hopeless or helpless.  Jesus has the power to do what we need him to do.  If He touched a demoniac, a hemorrhaging woman, and a dead little girl, He can certainly touch our broken lives.  If we will open up to Him, he will meet our needs, and change our lives.  After all, Jesus came to heal our broken lives!

Perseverance in Prayer

Perseverance in Prayer

Romans 12:11-13

As a pastor, I speak with many people about their spiritual journey. From these interactions, I know that most individuals are not satisfied with their prayer life. They lack anticipation and faith, and time with God feels empty. Most likely, this is why many Christians pray so little and so passionlessly.

Yesterday, we began looking at obstacles to a healthy prayer life. Let’s explore one more hindrance that blocks vibrant communication between God and us: impatience.

Most of us have at some point brought our supplication to Jesus vigorously but did not see the desired results. Unfortunately, humans are, by nature, fainthearted. We get weary of asking and listening when all we perceive is silence. Remember, though, that God is not some “cosmic bellhop”; He does not act on our cue. In fact, if we could see the big picture as He can, we would gladly wait for His way and time.

Actually, I believe that we benefit by not receiving all that we request. Understanding this concept is a sign of spiritual maturity. When we are thoroughly satisfied with the Lord’s presence, our relationship with Him will flourish, even when we don’t get all we ask. When that is the case, we grasp what prayer is—not a long want list, but a relationship.

Barriers can develop if we persistently cry out to God but nothing changes. Continue to pray. Beyond this “wall,” you’ll sense God’s presence, where you will find peace, joy, and awesome glimpses of His glory. This will be completely satisfying, even if He never gives you exactly what you requested.

The day is coming when God will be the righteous King over all the earth.

Zechariah 14

The day is coming when God will be the righteous King over all the earth.

INSIGHT

Haggai and Zechariah minister to the same people at the same time. Their goal is the same: to motivate the people to rebuild the temple. But their very different personalities show through the pages of Scripture. Haggai utters rebuke; Zechariah breathes encouragement. Haggai makes them feel that they ought to rebuild the temple. Zechariah makes them want to rebuild the temple. He reinforces God´s love and care for Israel and the certainty of the ultimate defeat of the enemies as they continue to obey God.

PRAYER

Praise the Lord that His Word can be trusted:
Make a joyful shout to God, all the earth!
Sing out the honor of His name;
Make His praise glorious.
Say to God,
"How awesome are Your works!
Through the greatness of Your power
Your enemies shall submit themselves to You.
All the earth shall worship You
And sing praises to You;
They shall sing praises to Your name"
Selah (Psalm 66:1-4).

Pause for praise and thanksgiving.

Pray this confession to the Lord as you seek to keep your life free from sin:
Deliver me from the guilt of bloodshed, O God,
The God of my salvation,
And my tongue shall sing aloud of Your righteousness.
O Lord, open my lips,
And my mouth shall show forth Your praise (Psalm 51:14-15).

Confess any sins that the Holy Spirit brings to your mind.

Now pray this affirmation to the Lord:
"He who hears My word and believes in Him who sent Me has everlasting life, and shall not come into judgment, but has passed from death into life" (John 5:24).

As you make your requests known to the Lord, include:

Greater personal discipline
Persecuted Christians worldwide
Your activities for the day
Now, offer this closing prayer to God:
May the God of peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you complete in every good work to do His will, working in you what is well pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen (Hebrews 13:20-21).

Seek The Lord!

Seek The Lord!
Now set your heart and your soul to seek the Lord your God; arise therefore, and build ye the sanctuary of the Lord God, to bring the ark of the covenant of the Lord, and the holy vessels of God, into the house that is to be built to the name of the Lord (1st Chronicles 22:19)

David had a made a big mistake in the 21st chapter of 1st Chronicles. He took a census. It was not the census that was wrong, but his motivation for the census. His motivation was pride in his army while forgetting that his real strength came from God (verse 1-6). This resulted in consequences of his sin being put in action. A great plague that killed 70, 000 innocent people was set in motion (verses 11-14). David cried out for mercy and God stopped the plague and told him to go build an altar to the Lord on the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite. David obeyed God and went to Araunah asking him to sell him the site at full price. Araunah told him to take it, but David refused. "I will not sacrifice to God that which cost me nothing" (verses 16-29). David made the purchase.

Out of David's tragic mistake came the purchase of a plot of land that would become the site of God's temple, the symbol of God's presence among his people. Whenever the people would go to the temple, they would remember that God is their true king and that everyone, including their human king is fallible and subject to sin. . God told David he would not be able to build the temple, but the task would be given to his son Solomon. In this 22nd chapter of 1st Chronicle verses 6-16 David charges Solomon to build God's temple with certain specifications. In verses 17 through 19, David turns his attention to the leaders of Israel, ordering them to help his son Solomon. He reminds them that the Lord is with them of every side. He tells them to devote their hearts and soul to seeking the Lord. Finally, he says, "build the sanctuary for God so that you can bring the ark of the covenant of the Lord and the sacred articles belonging to God into the temple that will be built for the Name of the Lord" (verse 19 NIV).

What does it mean to seek the Lord? To seek the Lord means to give absolute attention of our life both inwardly and outwardly to a unique awareness of the presence of God. It implies a deep desire on our part to have our relationship with Him as the consuming passion of our lives. When we seek the Lord, we must use our heart and soul. Our heart includes the mind, will, and emotions. In a nutshell, the heart is the mind hearing God, your will obeying God, and your emotions under God's control. The soul is the inner being of a person. This part of us can only be satisfied by being at peace with God and can answer "yes" to God's Spirit convicting us of sin. Drawing near to God with our heart and soul is not a pastime; it is an all consuming passion!!!

My brother, my sister, be encouraged to seek the Lord. Pursue after Him radically committed to prayer, giving up all other distractions, and surrendering to see our sins through his eyes. Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness, for they shall be filled (St Matthew 5:6).

The Influence of Faith

The Influence of Faith

1 Kings 18:37-40

In contemporary Christian culture, faith is often considered a possession that affects just its "owner." Because of our love for independence and self-sufficiency, we have, in many ways, lost the sense of community and outreach that the church is meant to embody. We live like little islands in our own "personal relationship with Christ." But in reality, God wants our faith to influence others, both within and outside the church.

Elijah's faith influenced the entire nation of Israel. By believing and delivering God's message, he was an example to them in word and deed. When he asked the Lord to reveal Himself as almighty God, fire fell from heaven, and the people believed.

His motive in the showdown at Mount Carmel was to draw the people back to the Lord. We usually think of "sharing our faith" with those who don't know Christ, but our confidence in God can also encourage weak or wayward believers. Likewise, those strong in faith can strengthen us when we are struggling with doubt.

The church is described as a body whose parts are all interconnected (1 Cor. 12:12). God never intended that we be autonomous, living in our own personal faith. We are not like a bag of marbles; rather, we're to be like a bunch of grapes whose juices blend in times of pressure.

Guard against living an isolated Christian life. Share your confidence in God's faithfulness. Your testimony could help others' faith to grow. If you're troubled by doubt or fear, let go of any pride or shame, and seek help from a strong believer. Mutual blessing awaits when we reach out to one another.

Haggai explains that God´s people suffer because they neglect to finish the temple.

Haggai 1

Haggai explains that God´s people suffer because they neglect to finish the temple.

INSIGHT

As the children of Israel return from the Babylonian captivity, their first order of business is to rebuild the temple. Haggai, a prophet of God who is ministering at the time, encourages the people to work hard at restoring the temple. With great enthusiasm, they quickly lay the foundation. But discouragement sets in and work on the temple is soon forgotten as they begin to build their own houses. Finally, after 15 years, Haggai tells them that the afflictions they are suffering are because of their neglect of the temple. They must finish the temple first and then resume building their houses. First things first. God demands proper priorities.

PRAYER

Offer the Lord this psalm of praise as you express your gratitude for His justice:
O Lord God of our fathers, are You not God in heaven, and do You not rule over all the kingdoms of the nations, and in Your hand is there not power and might, so that no one is able to withstand You? (2 Chronicles 20:6).

Pause for praise and thanksgiving.

Pray this confession to the Lord as you seek to keep your life free from sin:
Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean;
Wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.
Make me to hear joy and gladness,
That the bones which You have broken may rejoice.
Hide Your face from my sins,
And blot out all my iniquities (Psalm 51:7-9).

Confess any sins that the Holy Spirit brings to your mind.

Now pray this affirmation to the Lord:
"Whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life" (John 4:14).

As you make your requests known to the Lord, include:

Your development of an eternal perspective
Your spiritual goals
Whatever else is on your heart
Offer this closing prayer to the Lord:
May our Lord Jesus Christ Himself, and our God and Father, who has loved us and given us everlasting consolation and good hope by grace, comfort your hearts and establish you in every good word and work (2 Thessalonians 2:16-17).

Anointed!

Anointed!

The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over (Psalms 23:1 & 5)

Jesus, who was the Messiah was anointed. How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him (Acts 10:38) If we want to be like Jesus, we should also be anointed. Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the Day of Judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world. (1st John 4:17). In Bible times, people were anointed with oil to signify God's blessing or call on that person’s life. A person was anointed for a special purpose - to be a king, to be a prophet, to be a builder, etc. It is only God that can anoint a person for a specific purpose. We run into the act of anointing first in the Old Testament where we see kings and priests anointed with oil. They had oil poured on their heads in a symbolic ceremony. This oil symbolized the Holy Spirit coming upon them in a special way, empowering them to do a special task for the Lord. Anointing showed that God had a task to be done. The origin of anointing was from a practice of shepherds from ancient times. Lice and other insects would often get into the wool of the sheep, and when they got near the sheep's head, they could burrow into the sheep's ears and kill the sheep. To burrow means to dig a hole or tunnel for habitation or refuge. Because of the lice and insects, ancient shepherds poured oil on the sheep's head. This made the wool slippery, making it impossible for insects to hang on to the wool and get near the sheep's ears because they would just slide off.

When you allow the enemy to have an audience with your ear through gossip, people's opinion about you, and discord, it is like someone digging a tunnel to your ear. You think that you are ignoring them, but you don't realize the impact of those conversations, until it eventually kills your spirit. We need to be anointed so these things can slide off of us, before they began to tunnel into our lives. We also need to be anointed to handle our emotions. "Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked." (Ephesians 6:16b). Fiery darts are digs in your life charged with intense heat, emotion, and causes a burning sensation. They are designed to penetrate, and slowly smolder in your life. They are designed to leave a burning sensation that acts a time released capsule. They are meant to burn the things of God out of your life over a period of time. This is why sometimes we fall into feelings of inadequacy, inferiority, and of insecurity. That dart has been left smoldering until it does real damage, and you find yourself, totally disconnected to God.

It is the anointing that makes the difference in our lives!! We need to be anointed so that which is not like God and that which will cause us to not hear God speak will slide off. God has already prepared a table for us to eat, and we are anointed for victory. If we would just give ear to the Holy Spirit of God, we could experience a "cup running over" blessing in every area of our lives.

Building Muscles of Faith

Building Muscles of Faith

1 Kings 18:22-36

"I wish I had great faith." These are words that almost every Christian has said at one time or another. But faith is like a muscle, which must be exercised in order to become strong; just wishing cannot make it happen.

Christians are to believe God, not only for salvation but for everything. Rather than a spiritual "plateau," faith is actually a process that involves increasing degrees of trust throughout life. Little faith hopes that God will do what He says; strong faith knows that He will; and great faith believes that He has already done it.

Elijah was a man of great faith. He saw increased challenges as opportunities for God to do His work—and the prophet believed Him for the supernatural. So can you. The Lord may not do every miraculous thing you ask of Him, but He does some extraordinary work in and through each person who is obedient and willing to trust in Him.

You may be thinking, I am not good enough for the Father to use me. The Scriptures are filled with examples of weak and flawed people whom the Lord used to achieve His purposes. He is looking, not for perfection, but for individuals willing to believe Him. He not only works through people of faith; He transforms them.

Start by reading God's Word to learn what He wants you to do. Each day's situations and needs are opportunities to trust Him. Ask the Lord to bring to mind verses that apply to your circumstances. Trust Him and do what He says—your faith "muscles" will grow, and He will be glorified.

Habakkuk exults in the God of his salvation.

Habakkuk 3

Habakkuk exults in the God of his salvation.

INSIGHT

Habakkuk wrestles with God concerning the sinfulness of his fellow Jews: "Why does God not do something? Why does God not judge His people?" AsHabakkuk puts these questions to Him, the Lord responds that He is doing something: He is raising up the Chaldeans to come and conquer Judah.Astounded by this revelation, Habakkuk cries out, "How can you use a nation that is more sinful than Judah to conquer it?" God´s answer?God´s people deserve judgment. The righteousness of the instrument of judgment is inconsequential. And as far as Habakkuk is concerned, "thejust shall live by his faith" (2:4). Habakkuk responds in faith that, even if disaster strikes, he will rejoice because God is his strength.

PRAYER

Because the Lord can be trusted, offer Him your praise:
Because Your lovingkindness is better than life,
My lips shall praise You.
Thus I will bless You while I live;
I will lift up my hands in Your name. . .
When I remember You on my bed,
I meditate on Youin the night watches.
Because You have been my help,
Therefore in the shadow of Your wings I will rejoice. . .
Your right handupholds me (Psalm 63:3-4, 6-8).

Pray this confession to the Lord as you seek to keep your life free from sin:
If we say that we haveno sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse usfrom all unrighteousness.
(1 John 1:8-9)

Pray this affirmation to the Lord:
Without controversy great is the mystery ofgodliness:
God was manifested in the flesh,
Justified in the Spirit,
Seen by angels,
Preached among the Gentiles,
Believed on in the world,
Received up in glory (1 Timothy 3:16).

As you make your requests known to the Lord, include:
Greater love for others
Mission work in the Middle East

Offer this closing prayer to God:
May the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered awhile, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you. To Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen (1 Peter 5:10-11).

Beyond impending judgment there is joy.

Zephaniah 3

Beyond impending judgment there is joy.

INSIGHT

Blue blood flows through Zephaniah´s veins. He is the great-great-grandson of Hezekiah, the thirteenth king of Judah and one of the most righteous of all kings. The flame for revival and religious reform burns as hot in Zephaniah´s heart as it did in his forefathers´. Zephaniah´s book has been called one of the "hottest" books in the Old Testament. He portrays "the final crash of the universe." The impending Day of the Lord is his all-encompassing message. Twenty-three times in this short book he refers specifically to the day that signifies the final judgment of God on the earth. Following the time of terrible judgment is the time of restoration and peace. Beyond judgment there is joy.

PRAYER

Give thanks to the Lord, and praise Him that all events are in His control and that eventually His children will know only joy:
Men shall speak of the might of Your awesome acts,
And I will declare Your greatness.
They shall utter the memory of Your great goodness,
And shall sing of Your righteousness.
The Lord is gracious and full of compassion,
Slow to anger and great in mercy.
The Lord is good to all,
And His tender mercies are over all His works (Psalm 145:6-9).

Pray this confession to the Lord as you seek to keep your life free from sin:
The Lord is merciful and gracious,
Slow to anger, and abounding in mercy. . .
As a father pities his children,
So the Lord pities those who fear Him.
For He knows our frame;
He remembers that we are dust
(Psalm 103:8, 13-14).

Confess any sins that the Holy Spirit brings to your mind.

Now pray this affirmation to the Lord:
"If you love Me, keep My commandments" (John 14:15).

As you make your requests known to the Lord, include:

Greater faithfulness in sharing Christ
The work of the Lord in national and world affairs
In closing, ask God to help you:
Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
To Him be the glory both now and forever. Amen (2 Peter 3:18).

A Helper for All Occasions

A Helper for All Occasions

John 16:7-15

The Holy Spirit is a very practical Helper who assists us in every aspect of our lives. When we pray, He intercedes for us according to the Lord’s will (Rom. 8:26). Because of our limited knowledge or self-centered desires, we sometimes ask for the wrong things, but the Spirit takes our petitions and aligns them with the Father’s will. Although you may think your prayer wasn’t answered, in reality, the Holy Spirit just straightened out your request in order to give you what was best.

God’s Spirit also helps us understand His Word (John 16:13). In fact, no one can comprehend the Bible unless the Spirit illumines his thinking. If you come to the Scriptures with a clean heart, a submissive will, and a dependent attitude, He will enlarge your spiritual senses to see the truth and understand His thoughts.

Perhaps one of the Spirit’s most under-appreciated works is His conviction of our sin (vv. 8-11). Although it’s unpleasant and sometimes painful, we should never want Him to stop, because this is the way He gets us back on track after we have strayed. But He doesn’t just point out our wrongs; He also empowers us to do right. True righteousness is achieved only by relying on Him to transform us and carry out His work through us.

Sometimes we don’t realize how much we need the Spirit. Though we acknowledge that salvation is accomplished by Christ alone, how many of us feel as if living the Christian life is now up to us? But self-reliance is a recipe for failure. Only when you know you can’t, will you find He can!

Nahum warns Nineveh to turn from idolatry and to be true to her vows.

Nahum 1

Nahum warns Nineveh to turn from idolatry and to be true to her vows.

INSIGHT

Nahum is sent from God to urge repentance again. This message must seem absurd. In the ensuing years, Nineveh has grown into the most powerful city in the known world. Her walls seem impregnable. Water totally surrounds the city, and inside there is a self-sufficient agricultural system. Feeling independent, she does not repent. The Babylonian army marches through the breach in the wall—and Nineveh falls. The Word of God is sure!

PRAYER

Praise God that He can overrule what seems to be impossible:
The king shall have joy in Your strength, O Lord;
And in Your salvation how greatly shall he rejoice!
You have given him his heart´s desire,
And have not withheld the request of his lips. Selah (Psalm 21:1-2).

Pray this confession to the Lord as you seek to keep your life free from sin:
I am a worm, and no man;
A reproach of men, and despised of the people. . . .
I was cast upon You from birth.
From My mother´s womb
You have been My God.
Be not far from Me,
For trouble is near;
For there is none to help (Psalm 22:6, 10-11).

Confess any sins that the Holy Spirit brings to mind.

Now pray this affirmation to the Lord:
You who fear the Lord, praise Him!
All you descendants of Jacob, glorify Him,
And fear Him, all you offspring of Israel!
For He has not despised nor abhorred the affliction of the afflicted;
Nor has He hidden His face from Him;
But when He cried to Him, He heard (Psalm 22:23-24).

As you make your requests known to the Lord, include:

Compassion for the less fortunate
Strength for those who minister to the homeless
Your activities for today
Offer this closing prayer to God:
All the ends of the world
Shall remember and turn to the Lord,
And all the families of the nations
Shall worship before You.
For the kingdom is the Lord´s,
And He rules over the nations. . .
They will come and declare His righteousness
to a people who will be born,
That He has done this (Psalm 22:27-28, 31).

Get Back Up

Get Back Up

Jeremiah, say to the people, “This is what the Lord says: ‘When people fall down, don’t they get up again? When they discover they’re on the wrong road, don’t they turn back?’” Jeremiah 8:4 New Living Translation

John Mark, writer of the earliest Gospel (the Gospel of Mark), was an assistant of three early missionaries—Barnabas, Paul, and Peter. Mark was taken along as an assistant by Barnabas and Paul on their first missionary journey. However, for unknown reasons, he left them to return to Jerusalem before the trip was completed. Because of this, when Barnabas wanted to take him along on the second trip, Paul flatly refused. The sharp disagreement that resulted broke the team apart: Barnabas took Mark (his cousin) with him, and Paul chose Silas, and the two pairs went their separate ways (Acts 15:36-41).

Later, however, it appears that Paul and Mark were reconciled and that Mark once again served as his assistant. In Colossians, Paul refers to him as a co-worker and suggests that he may soon be sending him to visit the church in Colosse (Colossians 4:10; Philemon 1:24). Still later, when Paul was awaiting execution in prison in Rome, he asked Timothy to bring Mark with him, for he thought Mark would be helpful to him in his ministry (2 Timothy 4:11).

Mark’s story reminds us that with God, we can overcome human failings, and restore rocky relationships for the sake of Christ and the Good News. Early failures do not disqualify a person from a life of effective service and even lasting significance. First John 3:20 says, “For if our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart, and knows all things.” Our hearts condemn us when we recognize that we’ve fallen short of God’s standard in some area of our lives. As a result of that condemnation we oftentimes feel insecure in approaching God or the people of God. But the Scripture says God is greater than our hearts. “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9). As a believer, Christ is our righteousness, He is our goodness, He is our Advocate, and He is our liberty.

We would have never learned to walk if we stayed on the ground after the first, second, fifth, or twentieth time we fell down as a child. So isn’t it rather foolish for us to throw in the “spiritual towel” when we’ve made a mistake. If you’ve fallen, get back up! The Lord has forgiven you. And you are still useful for the work of the Lord!

Another Divine Helper

Another Divine Helper

John 14:16-18

Have you ever wished you had a 911 number that rang in heaven whenever you had a need? Well, I have good news for believers. We all have divine assistance that’s even closer than a phone call: our Helper dwells within us. But if we are unaware of Him, we’ll miss many opportunities to benefit from the greatest asset in our Christian life—the Holy Spirit’s presence.

Christ knew that when He left the earth, His disciples would be totally inadequate for the task He was giving them—to evangelize the world. Though they’d spent three years with Jesus, all they had seen and learned would still not sufficiently equip them for what lay ahead. They needed supernatural help, and so do we—someone who will come to our aid, empower our service, and transform us from the inside out.

The Holy Spirit is the only one who can achieve all this. Consider His qualifications:

1. He is a personal Helper, not some inanimate force. God’s Spirit is a member of the Trinity and coequal with both the Father and Jesus Christ.

2. He is a practical Helper who involves Himself in every aspect of our lives.

3. He is an adequate Helper because He’s omnipotent, omniscient, and omnipresent.

4. He is an available Helper who permanently lives within us.

Do you have any need that requires more power than omnipotence? Are you facing a decision that requires more knowledge than omniscience? Nothing we encounter is bigger than the omnipresent One who lives within us. Be calm and confident. No matter what challenges you face, He can help.

Micah laments the degradation of his fellow men, but hopes in the Lord.

Micah 7

Micah laments the degradation of his fellow men, but hopes in the Lord.

INSIGHT

Micah sets his narrative in an imaginary courtroom where he pours out scathing rebuke on the injustice he sees in the fellow men around him. The evidence is brought forth and the children of Israel are found guilty. Sins swarm from Micah´s pen, filling the first third of his book. The second portion of this book addresses sin. Jerusalem will be destroyed, and the people will be banished to captivity in Babylon. Typical of the prophets of God, the third part of the book tells of hope. A divine Deliverer will appear, and once again justice and righteousness will reign.

PRAYER

Thank the Lord that He heals our emotional pain, and praise Him because He restores our hope and joy:
The Lord looks from heaven;
He sees all the sons of men.
From the place of His dwelling He looks
On all the inhabitants of the earth;
He fashions their hearts individually;
He considers all their works. . .
Behold, the eye of the Lord is on those who fear Him,
On those who hope in His mercy,
To deliver their soul from death,
And to keep them alive in famine
(Psalm 33:13-15, 18-19).

Now express any additional thoughts of praise, adoration, or thanksgiving.

Pray this confession to the Lord as you seek to keep your life free from sin:
I acknowledged my sin to You,
And my iniquity I have not hidden.
I said, "I will confess my transgressions to the Lord,"
And You forgave the iniquity of my sin. Selah (Psalm 32:5).

Confess any sins that the Holy Spirit brings to your mind.

Now pray this affirmation to the Lord:
Many sorrows shall be to the wicked;
But he who trusts in the Lord, mercy shall surround him.
Be glad in the Lord and rejoice, you righteous;
And shout for joy, all you upright in heart! (Psalm 32:10-11).

As you make your requests known to the Lord, include:

Sensitivity to the needs of others
Strength for missionaries in Brazil
Whatever else is on your heart
Offer this closing prayer to the Lord:
Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God! Therefore the world does not know us, because it did not know Him (1 John 3:1).

If You’re In The Ring With It, You Can Defeat It (Part 4)

If You’re In The Ring With It, You Can Defeat It (Part 4)

“And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.” Matthew 10:28

Fear is a very effective weapon in any war. An enemy’s objective is to invoke terror on his opponent with the intention of causing them to concede in defeat. More powerful, efficient, and accurate weapons are created to assist in the enemy’s objective. A nation’s enemy will use any viable option to obtain information on that nation’s arsenal. With modern technology, computer spies will even break into data systems to obtain access to design plans, performance statistics, or other vital information because by obtaining such information on the design of a weapon, you can develop a proper defense against it.

That’s why God told us not to fear, because He created the blacksmith that makes the weapon designed to kill. He also created the destroyer. So there is no weapon that He will allow to be created that will destroy you (Isaiah 54:16-17). If there was a concept of a weapon that could take you out, He would not even allow it to succeed against you!

Here’s proof: The Bible says that the wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23). Death is not merely the cessation of natural life because once the spirit and soul depart from the body, natural death occurs, but your soul and spirit live on in eternity somewhere. A spirit that has not been regenerated, or born again, will spend an eternity disconnected from God in hell. So God took it upon Himself to forever deal with the sin issue. God the Father sent God the Son to die in our place, paying the penalty of sin, and forever breaking the power of our spiritual enemy. Isaiah 59:16-17 (NKJV) “[The LORD] saw that there was no man, and wondered that there was no intercessor; therefore His own arm brought salvation for Him; and His own righteousness, it sustained Him. For He put on righteousness as a breastplate, and a helmet of salvation on His head; He put the garments of vengeance for clothing, and was clad with zeal as a cloak.”

Through Christ’s completed work “death is swallowed up in victory” (1 Corinthians 15:54). That’s not all, the righteous armor that the Lord put on to secure our victory in Isaiah 59, He has given to us in Ephesians 6. This armor is tried and true! It has been proven and will not fail. So check your armor. Make sure every piece is on and effectively being used. Because when you’re fully armored it doesn’t matter what you’re going through, you’ll be left standing!

Wisdom for Good Health

Wisdom for Good Health

1 Corinthians 6:19-20

Early in my college days, I studied and worked excessively, as I wanted to offer the Lord my all. Eventually I realized that neglecting my health could hinder my serving Him, so I had a responsibility to take care of my physical body. Since then, I have tried to use wisdom with regard to health. I believe that includes having the proper motivation and a commitment to practice discipline.

When we understand our worth in God’s sight, we will be motivated to pursue good health. Our bodies are the temple of the living God (1 Cor. 6:19). The Holy Spirit lives in us and carries out the Lord’s work through us. When we are taking care of our health, we position ourselves to be able to serve when God calls. Our heavenly Father knows many of us have infirmities, but He wants us to take care of ourselves so we do not make our condition worse.

Discipline is the other component of a health-conscious attitude. Many of us approach exercise and weight loss in a “fits and starts” manner. While that may offer some value at the time, a more lasting method is of greater benefit. We need to develop new routines, within the structure of our family and work, for our bodies to thrive. Consistency over the long term is necessary if we are to stay in good condition.

A desire to eat right and exercise regularly does not guarantee we’ll avoid disease or live a long life. But it does mean we will have done our part to keep God’s temple in good shape for Him. Our calling as God’s children is best fulfilled when we seek physical as well as spiritual vitality.

Jonah suffers the consequences of refusing to obey God´s call.

Jonah 1

Jonah suffers the consequences of refusing to obey God´s call.

INSIGHT

Jonah is mentioned in 2 Kings 14:25 and is very likely a strong patriot of the nation Israel. As a result, he finds it an odious task to preachrepentance to Nineveh, the capital city of Assyria, the country which is one day to conquer Israel. Rather than go on this errand of mercy, Jonahchooses to hurry to the seaport at Joppa for the fastest transit in the opposite direction. This is a commission that will not be denied, however,and God causes him to be swallowed by a great fish in which Jonah wisely repents and subsequently carries the warning message to Nineveh. The peopleof Nineveh repent—as Jonah feared—and the nation is preserved as an instrument of judgment for Israel almost 100 years later.

PRAYER

God´s ways are above our ways, and we praise Him for His wisdom:
We have thought, O God, on Your lovingkindness,
In the midst ofYour temple.
According to Your name, O God,
So is Your praise to the ends of the earth;
Your right hand is full of righteousness(Psalm 48:9-10).

Pause for praise and thanksgiving.

Pray this confession to the Lord as you seek to keep your life free fromsin:
Have mercy upon me, O God,
According to Your lovingkindness;
According to the multitude of Your tender mercies,
Blotout my transgressions.
Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity,
And cleanse me from my sin.
For I acknowledge my transgressions,
And my sin is always before me (Psalm 51:1-3).

Confess any sins that the Holy Spirit brings to your mind.

Now pray thisaffirmation to the Lord:
Cast your burden on the Lord,
And He shall sustain you;
He shall never permit the righteous to be moved(Psalm 55:22).

As you make your requests known to the Lord, include:
A stronger desire to be like Christ
Churches across the nation
Your activities for the day

Finally, offer this closing prayer to the Lord:
To the King eternal, immortal, invisible, to God who alone is wise, be honor and gloryforever and ever. Amen (1 Timothy 1:17)

If You’re In The Ring With It, You Can Defeat It (Part 3)

If You’re In The Ring With It, You Can Defeat It (Part 3)

“For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” Ephesians 6:12

This particular Scripture has always been important to me throughout my Christian walk because it reminds me who my enemy truly is. Satan would love to have us warring against each other. But this verse helps us direct our aggression towards the right opponent. We do not wrestle against “flesh and blood.” Our fight is against evil forces – principalities, powers, rulers of the darkness of this world, and spiritual wickedness in high places.

The word “wrestle” refers to a sporting event that involves close, personal contact. And wouldn’t the enemy love to make you feel as though you are on your own in your struggle. That’s the ultimate strategy of the enemy – to divide and conquer. But believers in Christ can be assured that the spiritual power that God supplies strengthens us to be victorious against every evil spiritual force. Knowing that evil spiritual forces, not our brothers and sisters, are our real enemies frees up wasted time and energy used fighting in the natural. Why shadowbox in the natural, when you can knock the devil out in the spiritual!

That’s why the Apostle Paul said, “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes” (Ephesians 6:10-11 NIV). A person who doesn’t take an expressed stand or position will always have friends, and will be relatively free from conflict. However, once you take a stand for the truth, the enemy will launch schemes and strategies to attempt to coerce you to compromise your beliefs. Oftentimes, the most effective place to apply pressure is through those within close contact with us; those near and dear to our hearts. And when the heat is turned up, compromise provides an easy escape from adversity.

The man of God, Apostle Paul, encouraged the Ephesians, and indeed believers today, to be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power! Our power flows through our dependence on the Lord Jesus Christ. His strength is made perfect in our weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9). Our victory is determined by our allegiance to the Victor! Second Chronicles 20:15, 17 “This is what the LORD says to you: 'Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's. You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the LORD will give you.’”

Man Made by God and for God

Man Made by God and for God

Psalm 139:1-10

Our culture greatly values outward appearance and athletic prowess. As a result, many of us think negatively about our bodies. We compare ourselves with others and conclude we do not measure up to society’s ideal. Such unhealthy comparisons can lead us into an emotional downward spiral. But the Lord sees things differently.

First, God made us—male and female—in His image, and then called what He had created “good” (Gen. 1:31). He knitted each of us in the womb (Ps. 139:13 niv); no one is exactly like anyone else. From the Lord’s perspective, we are each uniquely made, with both value and purpose.

Second, our importance to the Father is seen in His Son’s sacrifice on our behalf. Christ shed His blood and paid for our sins so that we might be set free from the penalty and power of sin. God loved us so much that He sent Jesus to take our place on the cross (1 John 4:10).

Finally, God designed man to be in relationship with Him. Adam and Eve lived in the Garden and had communion with the Creator. Abraham followed the Lord and was called God’s friend (James 2:23). Through faith in Jesus, we have become children of God and co-heirs with Christ (Rom. 8:17 niv). Our whole being—body, soul, and spirit—belongs to Him.

The media bombards us with how to be prettier, stronger, and more popular. But such pursuits don’t bring lasting satisfaction. Contentment is found when we remember how precious we are to God: He created us, our Savior died for us, and the Holy Spirit lives in us.

Edom is judged because she has acted with violence toward Israel.

Obadiah

Edom is judged because she has acted with violence toward Israel.

INSIGHT

Esau and Jacob were brothers. Esau was the father of the nation Edom, and Jacob was the father of the nation Israel. Therefore, in a sense, thenations Edom and Israel are brothers. A day comes when Assyria wages war against Jerusalem. But instead of joining Israel, their brother, in thefight against Assyria, Edom joins Assyria and fights against their brothers in Jerusalem. Because of this breach of loyalty, God pronounces judgmenton Edom through the prophet Obadiah. God offers no hope for possible restoration or deliverance for Edom. Her fate is sealed. Edom is destroyed as anation.

PRAYER

Praise God for His justice and righteousness. Thank Him for the love that He pours out on His people:
He shall bring forth your righteousnessas the light,
And your justice as the noonday (Psalm 37:6).

By You I have been upheld from my birth;
You are He who took meout of my mother´s womb.
My praise shall be continually of You (Psalm 71:6).

Pray this confession to the Lord as you seek tokeep your life free from sin:
The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears,
And delivers them out of all their troubles.
The Lord isnear to those who have a broken heart,
And saves such as have a contrite spirit (Psalm 34:17-18).

Confess any sins that the HolySpirit brings to your mind.

Now pray this affirmation to the Lord:
"Fear not, for I am with you;
Be not dismayed, for I amyour God.
I will strengthen you,
Yes, I will help you,
I will uphold you with My righteous right hand" (Isaiah 41:10).

The Lord encourages us to come to Him with our concerns and desires. As you make your requests known to the Lord, include:
Spiritual victory over temptation
Opportunities to serve the Lord
Whatever else is on your heart

Offer this closing prayer to the Lord:
The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be withyou all. Amen (2 Corinthians 13:14).

If You’re In The Ring With It, You Can Defeat It (Part 2)

If You’re In The Ring With It, You Can Defeat It (Part 2)

“When the LORD your God brings you into the land you are about to enter and occupy, he will clear away many nations ahead of you… These seven nations are greater and more numerous than you. When the LORD your God hands these nations over to you and you conquer them, you must completely destroy them. Make no treaties with them and show them no mercy.” Deuteronomy 7:1-2 New Living Translation

Before Israel could occupy the land of promise, the nations already living there had to be removed. The land was the Lord’s, and only he could determine who the inhabitants should be. The war against the inhabitants of Canaan was led by God. You’ll notice that without the hand of the Lord on their side, these nations were greater and more numerous than the Israelites. You’ll also notice that God handed them over to the Israelites, yet it was up to the Israelites to actually destroy the enemy by the power of God.

God gave them explicit instructions to completely annihilate their enemy. But Biblical accounts tell us that the Israelites settled for not completely killing them; rather they forced some of the Canaanites to become their slaves. Sadly, that poses the same problem that is experienced from failing to remove ashes from a kindling fire. The accumulation of ashes will eventually threaten your fire. Similarly, those forced slaves eventually rose up and reclaimed Canaanite territory.

God commanded His people to kill all the inhabitants of the land while they were still in the period of war and conquest, because there would come a time when they would be at rest and warring would cease. Eventually, they would no longer be fighters, but would become shepherds and farmers. Once settled, the Israelites would become attracted to the Canaanite gods (fertility, rain, and crops), and their gods would become a snare to the people of God. Likewise, the people allowed to remain in the land would become a thorn in their side.

It’s during those times that God is dealing with us concerning certain issues and struggles in our lives that He is giving us the grace and power to confront and annihilate our enemies. These are the times that God has created an opportunity for us to get complete victory in those areas of our lives. Failing to completely destroy our enemies through the power of God will allow them to reclaim territory and dominate those areas over which God has already given us the victory. So let’s remove the ashes. Annihilate all our enemies. Because it is only presented as an enemy because God has given us the ability to defeat it!

God's Ways: Ordinary and Miraculous

God's Ways: Ordinary and Miraculous

1 Kings 17:2-7

God declared, "My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways," (Isa. 55:8). And in fact, one of the biggest frustrations of the Christian life has to do with a lack of understanding about God's ways. There are times when we could really use a miracle, and yet He does not come through for us. Unmet expectations lead to confusion, disappointment, and even anger. Why did God let me down?

There are two schools of thought regarding the miraculous. Some people don't believe God works miracles at all, while others are convinced that if He's not doing the miraculous every day, then something is wrong with their faith. We need a balanced perspective, which we find in the Bible.

God works in both supernatural and ordinary ways, and He determines the method. Elijah ate food miraculously delivered by ravens, but his water supply from a brook was completely natural. When the water dried up, the Lord could have made more spring from the ground, but He didn't.

Sometimes God uses ordinary means to move us in a new direction. The curtailment of his water supply opened the door for Elijah's next "assignment." When the Lord withholds miraculous intervention and lets your brook dry up, He has something else planned for you.

Seeing the work of God in the miraculous is easy, but He's just as involved in the commonplace aspects of life as He is in any supernatural event. Look for His "fingerprint" in the day's mundane activities. He is there, opening and closing doors, drying up one opportunity but initiating another.

Israel´s sin must be judged, but God offers hope of restoration.

Amos 9

Israel´s sin must be judged, but God offers hope of restoration.

INSIGHT

God reveals a warning of judgment on Israel through visions to Amos. One vision is a plumb line which God says He will hold up against the "wall"of Jerusalem, and it will be demonstrated that the wall is leaning and will fall (Amos 7:7-9). Another vision is of summer fruit in a basket which,left unattended, will rot and be good only for throwing out (chapter 8). Famine, military conquest, and pestilence are among the consequences ofjudgment. Israel does not repent and judgment comes, but Amos holds out the promise of eventual restoration.

PRAYER

Thank the Lord and give Him your praise for saving you by faith and clothing you in Christ´s righteousness:
Give to the Lord, Ofamilies of the peoples,
Give to the Lord glory and strength.
Give to the Lord the glory due His name;
Bring an offering, andcome before Him.
Oh, worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness!
(1 Chronicles 16:28-29).

I will praise the Lord accordingto His righteousness,
And will sing praise to the name of the Lord Most High (Psalm 7:17).

Pause for praise and thanksgiving.

Pray this confession to the Lord as you seek to keep your life free from sin:

I acknowledged my sin to You,
And myiniquity I have not hidden.
I said, "I will confess my transgressions to the Lord,"
And You forgave the iniquity of my sin.
Selah(Psalm 32:5).

Confess any sins that the Holy Spirit brings to your mind.

Now pray this affirmation to the Lord:
I ampersuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, norany other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord (Romans 8:38-39).

As youmake your requests known to the Lord, include:
Greater wisdom in decision making
The needs of friends
Whatever else is on your heart

Offer this closing prayer to God:
May the God of patience and comfort grant you to be like-minded toward one another, according to ChristJesus (Romans 15:5).

If You’re In The Ring With It, You Can Defeat It (Part 1)

If You’re In The Ring With It, You Can Defeat It (Part 1)

“The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.” 1 Corinthians 10:13 New Living Translation

The sovereignty of a nation or a ruler is described as the quality of having the highest level of authority or power. A state of sovereignty describes complete self-governance, having controlling influence, and being completely free from external control. When I think about God’s sovereignty, I am reminded of the Book of Daniel. The demonstration of the hand of God throughout the Book, and the interpretation of the dreams in the Book witness to us that “the Most High is sovereign over the kingdoms of men and gives them to anyone he wishes and sets over them the lowliest of men” (Daniel 4:17 NIV).

The account of the experiences of Daniel himself show the favor of God upon the life of a young man who was an example of intelligence, faith, wisdom, endurance, and absolute fidelity to God. However, God’s favor upon Daniel’s life drew many “haters,” especially in high places. His political enemies persuaded King Darius to pass a decree forbidding worship of anyone but the king, under penalty of being cast into a lions’ den. To preserve his religious integrity, Daniel violated the law, but he was miraculously unharmed by the lions. Thereafter he was restored to the office he held within the kingdom (Daniel 6).

Daniel’s experience in the lions’ den testifies of God’s ability to deliver you from the grip of life’s fiercest opponents. Your lion may be temptations to sin, sickness, addiction, high debt, fear, anxiety, depression, workplace conflict, or emotional burdens caused by divorce or the loss of a family member. None of these are formidable opponents to the Living God. God will send an angel to shut your lion’s mouth! I am convinced, as was the Apostle Paul, “that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able toseparate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:38-39 NLT).

In the midst of whatever you’re facing, remind yourself of God’s sovereignty. The stresses and pressures of life can be great, but God is faithful. He’s always in your corner to assure you complete victory!

Judgment is coming for the sins of the people, but after repentance, they will be restored.

Joel 2

Judgment is coming for the sins of the people, but after repentance, they will be restored.

INSIGHT

Joel predicts a locust plague to come upon the land of Judah, which is both primary and secondary as a prophetic warning. The primary meaning isa literal locust plague. But the things Joel says about the locusts gradually transcend what could be true of mere bugs and could only be true of aninvading army. In this way, the locust plague becomes symbolic of an invading army swarming over the land of Judah, stripping it of everything thathas life. The warning of the plague comes because Judah is failing to serve the Lord. Joel holds out an escape: "Turn to Me with all your heart . .. rend your heart and not your garments" (vv. 12-13). Judah ignores the warning and the judgment eventually falls. Sin always has itsconsequences.

PRAYER

Give your praise to the Lord that He always warns us of the consequences of sin and gives us a means of escape:
I will bless the Lord at alltimes;
His praise shall continually be in my mouth.
My soul shall make its boast in the Lord;
The humble shall hear of it and beglad.
Oh, magnify the Lord with me,
And let us exalt His name together. . .
Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good;
Blessed is the man who trusts in Him!
(Psalm 34:1-3, 8).

Pause for praise and thanksgiving.

Pray this confession to theLord as you seek to keep your life free from sin:
Against You, You only, have I sinned,
And done this evil in Your sight—
That You may be found just when You speak,
And blameless when You judge (Psalm 51:4).

Confess any sins that the Holy Spirit bringsto your mind.

Now pray this affirmation to the Lord:
God has not given us a spirit of fear,
but of power and of love and of asound mind (2 Timothy 1:7).

As you make your requests known to the Lord, include:
Greater faithfulness with your finances
Revival among Christians in America
Your activities for the day

Finally, offer this closing prayer to the Lord:
May the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, andbody be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ (1 Thessalonians 5:23).

The Authority of Our Message

The Authority of Our Message

1 Kings 17:1

King Ahab's first thought after encountering the prophet Elijah may well have been, Of all the nerve! Just who does this guy think he is? Bursting onto the scene out of nowhere, Elijah confronted Israel's wicked king with a message that would soon disrupt life throughout the entire region.

The validity of the revelation rested with the Source, not the mouthpiece. Elijah was a man of great faith who believed what God told him; he could boldly speak with authority because he knew and trusted the One who gave the message. He spent time alone with the Lord and listened as he stood before Him.

Our Father doesn't speak to us in exactly the same manner that He spoke to the Old Testament prophets, but the process of receiving His message hasn't changed. It begins with being alone in His presence and involves listening as He speaks through His Word. But it shouldn't end there.

Prophets had the responsibility of telling the people what the Lord revealed to them. Similarly, we are to share with others what we learn from God's Word. Devotional time with the Lord is not just about our own interests and needs. The Father reveals His treasures to us so that we can share them with others.

Begin each day alone with God in His Word and in prayer, listening as He speaks to your heart. Believe what He says in Scripture, apply it to your life, and then share with someone else what He has revealed. Be bold and remember that the authority of your message comes from Him.

The Authority of Our Message

The Authority of Our Message

1 Kings 17:1

King Ahab's first thought after encountering the prophet Elijah may well have been, Of all the nerve! Just who does this guy think he is? Bursting onto the scene out of nowhere, Elijah confronted Israel's wicked king with a message that would soon disrupt life throughout the entire region.

The validity of the revelation rested with the Source, not the mouthpiece. Elijah was a man of great faith who believed what God told him; he could boldly speak with authority because he knew and trusted the One who gave the message. He spent time alone with the Lord and listened as he stood before Him.

Our Father doesn't speak to us in exactly the same manner that He spoke to the Old Testament prophets, but the process of receiving His message hasn't changed. It begins with being alone in His presence and involves listening as He speaks through His Word. But it shouldn't end there.

Prophets had the responsibility of telling the people what the Lord revealed to them. Similarly, we are to share with others what we learn from God's Word. Devotional time with the Lord is not just about our own interests and needs. The Father reveals His treasures to us so that we can share them with others.

Begin each day alone with God in His Word and in prayer, listening as He speaks to your heart. Believe what He says in Scripture, apply it to your life, and then share with someone else what He has revealed. Be bold and remember that the authority of your message comes from Him.

After pronouncing judgment on Israel for sin, Hosea prophesies restoration and blessing.

Hosea 14

After pronouncing judgment on Israel for sin, Hosea prophesies restoration and blessing.

INSIGHT

Hosea is instructed by the Lord to take a wife whose name is Gomer and who later becomes unfaithful to him. Though Hosea loves her steadfastly,her infidelity compounds and she finally leaves him. Sometime later—as Hosea is walking down the street—he sees his wife being sold as aslave on an auction block. In a profound gesture of unconditional love, Hosea redeems (buys back) his wife and restores her to her former positionof honor and comfort as his wife. In doing so, Hosea sounds a warning to Israel and plays out a moving example of the unconditional love of God forHis people. If they sin, He will judge them; but after judgment, He will restore them to His grace.

PRAYER

God loves His children unconditionally. Praise Him that He does not leave us to our own abilities in following Him:
He is your praise, and Heis your God, who has done for you these great and awesome things which your eyes have seen (Deuteronomy 10:21).

Pray this confession tothe Lord:
I said, "Lord, be merciful to me;
Heal my soul, for I have sinned against You. . ."
O Lord, be merciful to me, and raiseme up,
That I may repay them. . . .
Blessed be the Lord God of Israel
From everlasting to everlasting!
Amen and Amen(Psalm 41:4, 10, 13).

As you confess any sins that the Holy Spirit brings to your mind, pray this affirmation to God:
I have beencrucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son ofGod, who loved me and gave Himself for me (Galatians 2:20).

As you make your requests known to the Lord, include:
Greater love for your family
The work of missions in North America
Whatever else is on your heart

Now offer this closing prayer to God:
To Him who is able to establish you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ,according to the revelation of the mystery kept secret since the world began but now has been made manifest . . . to God, alone wise, be glorythrough Jesus Christ forever. Amen (Romans 16:25-27)

A Lifestyle of Obedience

A Lifestyle of Obedience

Genesis 6:9-22

A lifestyle of obedience requires commitment and perseverance. Noah needed both as he obeyed the Lord’s instructions to build a large boat with a roof, doors, and three decks. God spelled out the exact measurements, the type of wood to use, and the way to make the vessel watertight. It was essential that Noah adhere to every detail if the ark was to house all the animals and stay afloat.

Scripture does not describe reactions to the project, but knowing human nature, we can imagine the disbelief and rejection Noah probably experienced. Yet he worked faithfully to the end and “did everything just as God commanded him” (v. 22 niv).

The Lord wants us to follow His instructions precisely. Unfortunately, we like to add some of our desires to His plan. We are like a child whose parent assigns three chores. The first is done satisfactorily, the second is put off until another day, and the third is skipped because the girl deems it unnecessary. This is not obedience.

In our case, we know we’re called to show compassion and kindness, forgiving others as the Lord forgave us (Col 3:13). However, our human nature wants to pick and choose which parts of Scripture we’ll obey. God blesses those who wholeheartedly follow Christ (John 12:26).

Many people in the Bible saw obedience as their goal. Abraham determined to go wherever God led. Moses felt inadequate but still carried out the Lord’s plan. Paul did an about-face to become Christ’s disciple. Ask the Holy Spirit to empower you to follow the path of righteousness.

God miraculously delivers Daniel from the lions´ den.

Daniel 6

INSIGHT

Daniel is a man of prayer. He loves God deeply and God in turn shows Daniel mercy. We are told several interesting things about Daniel´s prayer life. Verse 13 says that he prays "three times a day." His prayers included giving thanks (v. 10) and "supplication" (v. 11)—that is,Daniel asks God for things for himself and others. If our prayers reflect the commitment and balance of Daniel, our relationship with the Lord willgrow.

PRAYER

The Lord has given us the ability to communicate, and we praise Him for listening to our cries:
Who may ascend into the hill of the Lord?
Or who may stand in His holy place?
He who has clean hands and a pure heart,
Who has not lifted up his soul to an idol,
Norsworn deceitfully.
He shall receive blessing from the Lord,
And righteousness from the God of his salvation (Psalm 24:3-5).

Pause for praise and thanksgiving.

Pray this confession to the Lord as you seek to keep your life free from sin:
Show me Your ways,O Lord;
Teach me Your paths.
Lead me in Your truth and teach me,
For You are the God of my salvation;
On You I wait allthe day. . . .
For Your name´s sake, O Lord,
Pardon my iniquity, for it is great
(Psalm 25:4-5, 11).

Confessany sins that the Holy Spirit brings to your mind.

Now pray this affirmation to the Lord:
As for me, I will walk in my integrity;
Redeem me and be merciful to me.
My foot stands in an even place;
In the congregations I will bless the Lord (Psalm 26:11-12).

As you make your requests known to the Lord, include:
A joyful spirit
Safety and protection for loved ones
Your activities for the day

Offer this closing prayer to God:
One thing I have desired of the Lord,
That will I seek:
That I may dwell in the house of theLord
All the days of my life,
To behold the beauty of the Lord,
And to inquire in His temple.
For in the time of trouble
He shall hide me in His pavilion;
In the secret place of His tabernacle
He shall hide me;
He shall set me high upon arock
(Psalm 27:4-5).

That’s not the Paraclete, It’s a Parasite (part 4)

That’s not the Paraclete, It’s a Parasite (part 4)

1When the LORD thy God shall bring thee into the land whither thou goest to possess it, and hath cast out many nations before thee, the Hittites, and the Girgashites, and the Amorites, and the Canaanites, and the Perizzites, and the Hivites, and the Jebusites, seven nations greater and mightier than thou; 2And when the LORD thy God shall deliver them before thee; thou shalt smite them, and utterly destroy them… Deuteronomy 7:1-8

The final four of the seven nations that the children of Israel were to “smite” and “utterly destroy” were the Canaanites, the Perizzites, the Hivites and the Jebusites.

The Canaanites were the “lowlands people.” The "lowlands" refer to low earthly passions. Canaanite spirits are the spirits behind addictions, sexual perversions and exaggerated people-pleasing. Sodom and Gomorrah were Canaanite cities. “"12Abram dwelled in the land of Canaan, and Lot dwelled in the cities of the plain, and pitched his tent toward Sodom. 13But the men of Sodom were wicked and sinners before the LORD exceedingly" (Genesis 13:12-13) Perizzite means “belonging to a village.” Perizzites are characterized as “small thinkers” who were not likely to dream of great things. The Perizzite is a spirit of limited vision, laziness, and low self-esteem. Hivites were called “villagers.” This spirit is similar to the Perizzite spirit. They both had limited vision. Except the Hivites vision waslimited to enjoying an earthly inheritance. Their trait was hedonism. They love to “live it up.” They love to party. Jebusite means “threshers,” which refers to the agricultural activity of beating grain out of the husk. Jebusites love to suppress the spiritual authority in fellow believers. They are legalistic. They love to humiliate, put down and make people feel small.

Understanding who these nations are, it is clear why these spirits must be eliminated from the life of the believer. These are not of God. They are not helpers. They are harmful. They are workers of the flesh. They are parasites. They only want to attach themselves to you and destroy your life.

The Bible tells us in Ephesians 5:18 to “be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the [Holy] Spirit.” The Holy Spirit’s Greek name is “Paraclete,” pronounced, [par-uh-kleet] meaning “Helper,” “Comforter,” “Advocate,” “Intercessor.” He is “the Spirit of the Lord, the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might, the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord” (Isaiah 11:2).

My friend, “When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures, idolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, division, envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these. Let me tell you again, as I have before, that anyone living that sort of life will not inherit the Kingdom of God. But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control” (Galatians 5:19-23). You belong to Christ Jesus, now nail the passions and desires of their sinful nature to His cross and crucify them there. You are now living by the Spirit, so follow the Spirit’s leading inevery part of your life.

The Priority of Obedience

The Priority of Obedience

John 14:23-26

The Creator gave two commands to Adam and Eve—first, to fill the earth and rule over it, and second, not to eat from a certain tree in the Garden (Gen. 1:28; 2:17). Because they chose to disobey, their relationship with God was broken, and they had to leave Eden.

The first couple’s rebellion not only impacted their own lives but also had far broader implications: all future generations have suffered. In Romans 5:12-19, the apostle Paul explained the reason. Through the trespass of one man, Adam, sin made its entrance into the world, and death resulted for all mankind. Because Adam was head of the human race, his actions affected everyone born after him. His disobedience resulted in each of us having a bent away from the Lord and a desire for self-rule.

By contrast, Jesus made conformity to the Lord’s will the priority of His life. He obeyed God in both word and deed (John 8:28-29). Having lived a perfect life—one entirely without sin—He qualified to be our Savior (2 Cor. 5:21). Through the death of one man, Christ Jesus, payment was made for the transgressions of all mankind. God’s acceptance of the Son’s sacrifice brought us forgiveness and freedom from sin’s power.

Adam’s disobedience brought judgment and death upon us, whereas Jesus’ obedience resulted in new life for all who believe in Him (Rom. 6:4). Our Savior calls us to deny selfish desires, live sacrificially, and follow Him (Matt. 16:24). A godly life will bring Jesus honor and influence others for Him.

Handwriting appears on the wall, prophesying the king´s death.

Daniel 5

Handwriting appears on the wall, prophesying the king´s death.

INSIGHT

It is a terrible thing to go into the presence of God in our own merit. All have sinned and fall short of His glory. Belshazzar discovers thistruth. While he revels—desecrating the holy implements from the temple—the hand of God writes on the wall: "You have been weighed in the balances, and found wanting" (v. 27). In the providence and grace of God, we can come before Him in the merit of Christ Jesus—holy and undefiled.

PRAYER

Jesus Christ took our place on the cross. His great sacrifice requires our praise:
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world,that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love, having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to thegood pleasure of His will, to the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He has made us accepted in the Beloved.
(Ephesians 1:3-6)

Pray this confession to the Lord as you seek to keep your life free from sin:
"Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us ourdebts,
As we forgive our debtors.
And do not lead us into temptation,
But deliver us from the evil one.
For Yours is thekingdom and the power and the glory forever.
Amen" (Matthew 6:11-13).

Confess any sins that the Holy Spirit brings to your mind.

Now pray this affirmation to the Lord:
Oh, love the Lord, all you His saints!
For the Lord preserves the faithful,
Andfully repays the proud person.
Be of good courage,
And He shall strengthen your heart,
All you who hope in the Lord (Psalm31:23-24).

As you make your requests known to the Lord, include:
Greater gratitude for Christ´s sacrifice
Your neighbors´ spiritual well being
Whatever else is on your heart

Offer this closing prayer to God:
Oh, how great is Your goodness,
Which You have laid up for those who fear You,
Which You haveprepared for those who trust in You
In the presence of the sons of men! (Psalm 31:19).

That’s not the Paraclete, It’s a Parasite (part 3)

That’s not the Paraclete, It’s a Parasite (part 3)

1When the LORD thy God shall bring thee into the land whither thou goest to possess it, and hath cast out many nations before thee, the Hittites, and the Girgashites, and the Amorites, and the Canaanites, and the Perizzites, and the Hivites, and the Jebusites, seven nations greater and mightier than thou; 2And when the LORD thy God shall deliver them before thee; thou shalt smite them, and utterly destroy them… Deuteronomy 7:1-8

Deuteronomy 7 lists God's instructions to the people of Israel before they could possess the Promised Land. To enter into their spiritual inheritance, They had to be able to “smite” and “utterly destroy” the seven nations that were occupying the land: the Hittites, the Girgashites, the Amorites, the Canaanites, the Perizzites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites. These seven nations represent seven spirits that we must overcome.

The Hittites or “sons of terror” were the descendents of Heth whose name means “terror.” Being spirits of terror they are behind nightmares, deep depression, deceit and phobias such as claustrophobia, agoraphobia, fear of dogs, and fear of being in the dark. They are also behind suicides. One of the weapons of our warfare against the Hittites is found in 2 Timothy 1:7, “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”

The Girgashites or “clay dwellers” focus on earthy, temporal things. They exhibit an unbelief in what cannot be seen. They only focus on the things they can see with the natural. They only focus on their personal agendas Instead of focusing on what God wants for their lives they base their decisions on human wisdom. “But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man. For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ” (1 Corinthians 2:14-16). Proverbs 3:6 is one way to defeat the Girgashite, “In all thy ways acknowledge him [God], and heshall direct thy paths.”

“Amorite” means “mountain people; renowned.” The Amorite is obsessed with earthly fame and glory. They are fame-seeker, seekers of human glory and greatness. They want their names mentioned. The Amorite is a spirit of self-exaltation. They are domineering. They like to control and dominate others. They seek reverence and worship from others. (To be continued)

That’s not the Paraclete, It’s a Parasite (part 3)

That’s not the Paraclete, It’s a Parasite (part 3)

1When the LORD thy God shall bring thee into the land whither thou goest to possess it, and hath cast out many nations before thee, the Hittites, and the Girgashites, and the Amorites, and the Canaanites, and the Perizzites, and the Hivites, and the Jebusites, seven nations greater and mightier than thou; 2And when the LORD thy God shall deliver them before thee; thou shalt smite them, and utterly destroy them… Deuteronomy 7:1-8

Deuteronomy 7 lists God's instructions to the people of Israel before they could possess the Promised Land. To enter into their spiritual inheritance, They had to be able to “smite” and “utterly destroy” the seven nations that were occupying the land: the Hittites, the Girgashites, the Amorites, the Canaanites, the Perizzites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites. These seven nations represent seven spirits that we must overcome.

The Hittites or “sons of terror” were the descendents of Heth whose name means “terror.” Being spirits of terror they are behind nightmares, deep depression, deceit and phobias such as claustrophobia, agoraphobia, fear of dogs, and fear of being in the dark. They are also behind suicides. One of the weapons of our warfare against the Hittites is found in 2 Timothy 1:7, “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”

The Girgashites or “clay dwellers” focus on earthy, temporal things. They exhibit an unbelief in what cannot be seen. They only focus on the things they can see with the natural. They only focus on their personal agendas Instead of focusing on what God wants for their lives they base their decisions on human wisdom. “But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man. For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ” (1 Corinthians 2:14-16). Proverbs 3:6 is one way to defeat the Girgashite, “In all thy ways acknowledge him [God], and heshall direct thy paths.”

“Amorite” means “mountain people; renowned.” The Amorite is obsessed with earthly fame and glory. They are fame-seeker, seekers of human glory and greatness. They want their names mentioned. The Amorite is a spirit of self-exaltation. They are domineering. They like to control and dominate others. They seek reverence and worship from others. (To be continued)

Becoming a Patient Person

Becoming a Patient Person

Acts 24:1-16

Paul demonstrated the power of patience when he was brought to trial before Festus. Instead of letting his accusers’ false claims interfere with his calm demeanor, the apostle patiently went through the legal process while remaining faithful to the Lord. He refrained from attacking the opposition or decrying the injustice of the charges. His peaceful manner found favor with the governor and earned him a hearing for the gospel (Acts 24:24-25).

Because our “flesh” is inclined towards impatience, we need to seek the Lord during difficult situations. Through prayer, we can ask Him to take control over our . . .

Thoughts. It is important that we shift our attention away from the circumstance and onto our heavenly Father. His Spirit will help us gain the right perspective.

Emotions. When the Holy Spirit oversees our feelings and reactions, we will find ourselves becoming calmer. Then He will empower us to respond in a godly manner.

Speech. Asking Him to help us have self-control over our tongue is essential. A timely word can defuse a situation; speaking defensively or shouting angrily at the other person can inflame it (Prov. 15:18).

The Holy Spirit will answer our prayers and provide what we need, just as He did for the apostle Paul.

Patience requires self-control and a desire to please God. Paul had need of both when standing before Festus and King Agrippa. Despite the injustice of those situations, Paul held his ground and was not provoked. Imagine what God will do through you as you grow in the virtue of patience.

Daniel interprets Nebuchadnezzar´s second dream.

Daniel 4

Daniel interprets Nebuchadnezzar´s second dream.

INSIGHT

What a towering figure is Nebuchadnezzar! Sovereign over the greatest nation on earth at the time, wealthy beyond description, subject to fits ofrage, and yet somehow vulnerable and teachable. Nebuchadnezzar rages in fury at the three Jews who refuse to worship his image—yet proclaims their God the only God when He saves them from the furnace. Then, warned by Daniel that unless he repents he will be stripped of his kingdom,Nebuchadnezzar lapses into convenient forgetfulness and self-adulation. True to Daniel´s word, the king becomes an animal and roams theforest. Yet, when his senses are restored, the king again worships God and proclaims His praise to the ends of the earth.

PRAYER

We praise the Lord for ruling in love:
"Stand up and bless the Lord your God
Forever and ever!
"Blessed be Your glorious name.. .
You alone are the Lord;
You have made heaven,
The heaven of heavens, with all their host,
The earth and everything onit,
The seas and all that is in them,
And You preserve them all.
The host of heaven worships You
(Nehemiah 9:5-6).

Pause for praise and thanksgiving.

Pray this confession:
Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven,
Whose sin iscovered.
Blessed is the man to whom the Lord does not impute iniquity,
And in whose spirit there is no deceit (Psalm 32:1-2).

Confess any sins that the Holy Spirit brings to your mind.

Now pray this affirmation to God:
Blessed is that man who makes theLord his trust,
And does not respect the proud, nor such as turn aside to lies (Psalm 40:4).

As you make your requests known to theLord, include:
A passion for moral excellence
The ministry of Christian education institutions
Your activities for the day

Offer this closing prayer to the Lord:
To Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to thepower that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen (Ephesians 3:20-21).

That’s not the Paraclete, It’s a Parasite (part 2)

That’s not the Paraclete, It’s a Parasite (part 2)


1When the LORD thy God shall bring thee into the land whither thou goest to possess it, and hath cast out many nations before thee, the Hittites, and the Girgashites, and the Amorites, and the Canaanites, and the Perizzites, and the Hivites, and the Jebusites, seven nations greater and mightier than thou; 2And when the LORD thy God shall deliver them before thee; thou shalt smite them, and utterly destroy them; thou shalt make no covenant with them, nor shew mercy unto them: 3Neither shalt thou make marriages with them; thy daughter thou shalt not give unto his son, nor his daughter shalt thou take unto thy son. 4For they will turn away thy son from following me, that they may serve other gods: so will the anger of the LORD be kindled against you, and destroy thee suddenly. 5But thus shall ye deal with them; yeshall destroy their altars, and break down their images, and cut down their groves, and burn their graven images with fire. 6For thou art an holy people unto the LORD thy God: the LORD thy God hath chosen thee to be a special people unto himself, above all people that are upon the face of the earth. 7The LORD did not set his love upon you, nor choose you, because ye were more in number than any people; for ye were the fewest of all people: 8But because the LORD loved you… Deuteronomy 7:1-8



The children of Israel are two months away from entering the Promised Land. Not only will they enter the land but they will possess the land with the Lord clearing away the many nations that were ahead of them. What an awesome thing to have God go ahead of you and clear out the way of any enemy that you would encounter.



Entering the land that was promised to them, The children of Israel were to occupy, dominate, control and have the land as their own. The nations that were on the land that were “greater and mightier” that God would deliver to them they were to “smite and utterly destroy.” These seven nations were “the Hittites, and the Girgashites, and the Amorites, and the Canaanites, and the Perizzites, and the Hivites, and the Jebusites”(verse 1).



Who were these nations? Why would the children of Israel be instructed to smite them? To ban them, to curse them, to exterminate them? Why “make no covenant with them, nor shew mercy unto them?”(verse 2). The thing is these were seven nations, or kingdoms that represented seven evil spirits that would “…turn away thy son from following” the Lord, “that they may serve other gods” (verse 4). (To be continued)

Developing Patience

Developing Patience

Colossians 3:12-14

On any given day, we may encounter frustrating people and situations, such as the slow driver, mischievous child, or uncooperative co-worker. We may feel like lashing out, but God wants us to stay calm and be patient with everyone (1 Thess. 5:14).

Why should we want to develop patience?

• Our calling. Though once alienated from the Lord, we have been made part of His family through Jesus’ shed blood. As God’s children, we’re called to live a life worthy of Him—one that is characterized by humility, gentleness, and patience (Eph. 4:1-3).

• Biblical teaching. Scripture tells us to be tolerant of one another, bearing each other’s burdens, and responding with kindness.

• Jesus’ example. The Lord demonstrated patience toward Peter’s impetuous actions, the crowd’s demands, and the leaders’ false accusations. We are to cultivate an attitude of composure.

• Healthy relationships. Our impatience can hurt others and close off dialogue. Responding calmly gives room for the other person to confess wrongdoing, explain his attitude, and make changes.

• God’s approval. The apostle Paul wrote that we are to be joyful in hope and patient in affliction (Rom. 12:12 niv). When we quietly endure our suffering, we find favor with the Lord (1 Pet. 2:20).

The Holy Spirit is conforming us to Christ’s image. As we cooperate with Him, He will develop in us the ability to persevere—without becoming agitated—when waiting or provoked. A calm demeanor in times of delay or adversity can be a powerful witness to the transforming work of God.

God supernaturally protects Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the fiery furnace.

Daniel 3

God supernaturally protects Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the fiery furnace.

INSIGHT

What courage it took to defy the king! Nebuchadnezzar sets up a golden image and orders everyone to bow down to it. When the Jews are brought tohim in violation of the order, they say, "God may protect us from the fire, but even if He doesn´t, let it be known that we are not going to serve your gods!" Surely God gives His grace in times such as these. For those of us who are living in easier times, our total dedication to the Lord must be seen in our selfless commitment to serving Him.

PRAYER

Praise the Lord that—though all of us sin—God's compassions are new every morning:
Hezekiah prayed before the Lord, and said:
"O Lord God of Israel,
the One who dwells between the cherubim, You are God,
You alone, of all the kingdoms of the earth.
Youhave made heaven and earth" (2 Kings 19:15).

"Lord God of Israel, there is no God in heaven above or on earth below like You,
whokeep Your covenant and mercy with Your servants
who walk before You with all their hearts" (1 Kings 8:23).

Pause for praise andthanksgiving.

Pray this confession to the Lord as you seek to keep your life free from sin:
Good and upright is the Lord;
Therefore He teaches sinners in the way.
The humble He guides in justice,
And the humble He teaches His way.
For Yourname´s sake, O Lord,
Pardon my iniquity, for it is great
(Psalm 25:8-9, 11).

Confess any sins that the Holy Spiritbrings to your mind.

Now pray this affirmation to the Lord:
They said, "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ,
and you will besaved, you and your household" (Acts 16:31).

The Lord encourages us to come to Him with our concerns and desires. As you make yourrequests known to the Lord, include:
The leading of the Lord in your life
Opportunities for evangelism
Whatever else is on your heart

Offer this closing prayer to the Lord:
Bless the Lord, all you His hosts,
You ministers of His, who do His pleasure.
Bless theLord, all His works,
In all places of His dominion.
Bless the Lord, O my soul! (Psalm 103:21-22).

That’s not the Paraclete, It’s a Parasite (part 1)

That’s not the Paraclete, It’s a Parasite (part 1)

1When the LORD thy God shall bring thee into the land whither thou goest to possess it, and hath cast out many nations before thee, the Hittites, and the Girgashites, and the Amorites, and the Canaanites, and the Perizzites, and the Hivites, and the Jebusites, seven nations greater and mightier than thou; 2And when the LORD thy God shall deliver them before thee; thou shalt smite them, and utterly destroy them; thou shalt make no covenant with them, nor shew mercy unto them: Deuteronomy 7:1, 2

Canaan is the name of the land that was promised by God to be given to children of Israel. It is the biblical Promised Land. The promise that is based on Genesis 12:1. The LORD had said to Abram, “Leave your country, your people and your father’s household and go to the land I will show you.” and in Genesis 12:7, “To your offspring I will give this land.”

In Genesis 15:18-21 the boundary of the promised land is clarified to Abram and said, “To your descendants I give this land, from the river of Egypt to the great river, the Euphrates - the land of the Kenites, Kenizzites, Kadmonites, Hittites, Perizzites, Rephaites, Amorites, Canaanites, Girgashites and Jebusites.” These borders define the extent of the land promised to the descendants of Abraham through his son Isaac and grandson Jacob. The promise was confirmed to Jacob at Genesis 28:13, “the land on which you are lying.”

The promise is fulfilled at the end of the Exodus from Egypt. Deuteronomy 1:8 says: “See, I have given you this land. Go in and take possession of the land that the LORD swore he would give to your fathers—to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob—and to their descendants after them.”

In Deuteronomy 7, Moses, only two months before they would cross the Jordan into Canaan, addresses the children of Israel. He begins with two very powerful words, the words, “when” and “shall.”

“When” means “at some point in time.” The word “shall” means “something that will take place or exist in the future; is determined to; or definitely will.” In other words Moses was saying, “At some point in time the Lord your God definitely will bring you into the land that you are going into to possess it.”

My friend, when God speaks you can be assured that what He said definitely will happen. There is power in His word and there is purpose in His word. What He says shall come to pass. It is written, “So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto mevoid, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it” Isaiah 55:11.Do you want the full assurance of faith open your Bible, open the word of God and let it speak to you about what shall come to pass in your life. (To be continued)