Verse of the Day 12/31

Through the Bible - Malachi 3-4, Revelation 22

 

Good morning,

Yesterday we considered how God provides "manifold" grace to help us face various trials in our lives.

 

If you stop and consider Peter's life, you realize that he spoke from experience about the manifold, multi faceted grace of God.

 

For today's verse we'll go to 1 Peter 5 where just after Peter tells his readers and us to "cast all our cares upon Him, for He cares for us" (v.7), he points to the "light at the end of the tunnel", that after we've suffered and made it through, God will restore, support, and strengthen us.

 

10 But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you.  11 To Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.

 

[But the God of all grace] The God who imparts all needful grace. It was proper in their anticipated trials to direct them to God, and to breathe forth in their behalf an earnest and affectionate prayer that they might be supported. A prayer of this kind by an apostle would also be to them a sort of pledge or assurance that the needed grace would be granted them.  Barnes Notes

Perhaps your in the middle of a trial or struggle now.  May these verses encourage you to cast your cares and worries upon Him that God may restore, support, and strengthen you, place you on a firm foundation in the coming year.

 

There is more of life to come, more trials, more joys, and more praise to be offered to God who delivers us from our troubles.

 

Rom 5:3-5  There's more to come: We continue to shout our praise even when we're hemmed in with troubles, because we know how troubles can develop passionate patience in us, and how that patience in turn forges the tempered steel of virtue, keeping us alert for whatever God will do next. In alert expectancy such as this, we're never left feeling shortchanged. Quite the contrary — we can't round up enough containers to hold everything God generously pours into our lives through the Holy Spirit!    - The Message

In Christ,

Mike
mikevw@bellsouth.net
http://mikesvotd.blogspot.com
Eph 1:7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace  NIV
1 Peter 5:5-12

 

Submit to God, Resist the Devil

 

5 Likewise you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders. Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for

 

"God resists the proud,
But gives grace to the humble."

 

6 Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, 7 casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.

 

8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. 9 Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world. 10 But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you.  11 To Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.

NKJV

Verse of the Day 12/30

Through the Bible - Malachi 1-2, Revelation 21

 

Good morning,

As we look at the world around us we realize that the time of Christ's return is drawing nearer.

 

In yesterday's verses from Colassians we were encouraged, challenged to make the most of every opportunity, buying up, seizing the time the moments.  If we are to do so, our speech is to be seasoned with grace, salt as it were.

For today's verses we'll continue with that theme and go to the book of 1 Peter to chapter 4.  Here, Peter wants us to recognize that we've each been blessed with some kind of gift and he encourages, challenges us to use it/them.

 

1 Peter 4:10-11 (Amplified Bible)  As each of you has received a gift (a particular spiritual talent, a gracious divine endowment), employ it for one another as [befits] good trustees of God's many-sided grace [faithful stewards of the extremely diverse powers and gifts granted to Christians by unmerited favor].

¹¹Whoever speaks, [let him do it as one who utters] oracles of God; whoever renders service, [let him do it] as with the strength which God furnishes abundantly, so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ (the Messiah). To Him be the glory and dominion forever and ever (through endless ages). Amen (so be it).

As we approach the New Year, may it be one of our goals to be good stewards of God's gifts and use them to minister to and bless one another.  When we speak, may we draw from and speak from God's Word as the situation calls for.

1 Peter 1:6 speaks of various trials that we, that all people will face.  The word for various is the same one used here for  many sided or "manifold" in the NKJV.

 

Trials come in all shapes, sizes, and colors.  God supplies the "manifold" grace to face these trials, often using His servants to be ministers of His grace to those in need.

 

Read the passage in 1 Peter 4.  May it encourage and challenge you today and into the coming year.  May we have fervent love and be hospitable (and now perhaps comes the hard part), without grumbling, with every grace endued.

 

In Christ,
Mike
mikevw@bellsouth.net
http://mikesvotd.blogspot.com
Eph 1:7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace  NIV
1 Peter 4:7-12

 

Serving for God's Glory

 

7 But the end of all things is at hand; therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers. 8 And above all things have fervent love for one another, for "love will cover a multitude of sins."  9 Be hospitable to one another without grumbling. 10 As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. 11 If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.   NKJV

Verse of the Day 12/29

Through the Bible - Zechariah 13-14, Revelation 20

 

Good morning,

Yesterday we considered making the most of our opportunities.  For today's verse we'll go to Colossians chapter for some advice on what is necessary if we are to be able to do this.

Colossians 4:5-6 (Amplified Bible) Behave yourselves wisely [living prudently and with discretion] in your relations with those of the outside world (the non-Christians), making the very most of the time and seizing (buying up) the opportunity. 

 ⁶Let your speech at all times be gracious (pleasant and winsome), seasoned [as it were] with salt, [so that you may never be at a loss] to know how you ought to answer anyone [who puts a question to you].

If our speech is to be seasoned with grace, with salt, it is to come through the guidance of the Holy Spirit who speaks to us as we read, study, learn, and react upon what God tells us through His Word. Walking in wisdom is listening to His Word, responding to it, responding to His will as He prompts us. 

"God has a story for you. As you listen to the Word of God, and allow the Holy Spirit to plant it in your heart, you will hear the story. It is in the hearing that we learn of the love that casts out our fears. And when we obey that voice of love, we allow God's grace to live and act through us. God's life in us — this is true freedom. " — Rose Marie Miller

May we let God's Word act in and through us in the coming year.

Blessings,
Mike

mikevw@bellsouth.net
mikesvotd.blogspot.com

Colossians 4:2-6 (New King James Version)

Christian Graces

 ² Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving; ³ meanwhile praying also for us, that God would open to us a door for the word, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in chains, ⁴ that I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak.
⁵ Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time. ⁶ Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.

Verse of the Day 12/28

Through the Bible - Zechariah 10-12, Revelation 19

 

Good morning,

As the year 2010 draws to a close we may realize that some opportunities have come and gone.  The end of the year brings this to reality, perhaps better than any other time.  2010 will soon be complete and 2011 will present us with new opportunities.   The question is, what will we do with them?

 

For today's verse we'll continue in the book of Galatians, this time to chapter 6 to a couple of verses that encourage us to do good when an opportunity to do so presents itself to us.

 

Galatians 6:9-10 (Amplified Bible) And let us not lose heart and grow weary and faint in acting nobly and doing right, for in due time and at the appointed season we shall reap, if we do not loosen and relax our courage and faint.

 ¹⁰So then, as occasion and opportunity open up to us, let us do good [morally] to all people [not only being useful or profitable to them, but also doing what is for their spiritual good and advantage]. Be mindful to be a blessing, especially to those of the household of faith [those who belong to God's family with you, the believers].

 

John MacArthur points out that the Greek word for opportunity "refers to a distinct, fixed time period, rather than occasional moments.  Paul's point is that the believer's entire life provides the unique privilege by which we can serve others in Christ's name."  The good deeds spoken of include things that are good and profitable (beneficial) to them physically and spiritually. 

 

It is a common theme in the Bible, we have been blessed to be a blessing.  How may you be a blessing to someone today?

 

In Christ,
Mike
mikevw@bellsouth.net
http://mikesvotd.blogspot.com
Eph 1:7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace  NIV

Galatians 6:6-10 (New King James Version)

Be Generous and Do Good

   
⁶ Let him who is taught the word share in all good things with him who teaches.
⁷ Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. ⁸ For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life. ⁹ And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. ¹⁰ Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.

Verse of the Day 12/27

Through the Bible - Zechariah 10-12, Revelation 18

 

Good morning,

 

Have you ever stopped and wondered why Jesus came to the world when He did.  A time without photography and printing presses let alone i-phones with digital cameras and video equipment built in?  We read in Luke to that the glory of the Lord "flashed" and shone.    Luke 2:9 (Amplified Bible) And behold, an angel of the Lord stood by them, and the glory of the Lord flashed and shone all about them, and they were terribly frightened.  We can try to imagine what it must have been like.  Would it have been believed any more, any less if it had been captured with modern technology?

 

We need worry about it much because we have God's Word to confirm to us that it was at the right time the "fullness of time".  For today's verse we'll go to Galatians 4.

 

Galatians 4:4-5 (Amplified Bible)  But when the proper time had fully come, God sent His Son, born of a woman, born subject to [the regulations of] the Law,

    ⁵To purchase the freedom of (to ransom, to redeem, to atone for) those who were subject to the Law, that we might be adopted and have sonship conferred upon us [and be recognized as God's sons].

John MacArthur writes, "In God's timetable, when the exact religious, cultural, and political conditions demanded by His perfect plan were in place, Jesus came into the world." 

Take a minute and think about those conditions.  There had been 400 years of silence from the prophets.  The Romans had established a complex government and road systems that would make spreading the gospel easier.  Society was in desperate need of the good news of the gospel. 

 

We, as Christians today look forward to His coming again.  We look at the religious, cultural and political conditions of the world today and wonder if the time is almost right for Him to come again.  If we have such thoughts we should be preparing for it.  As we head towards a new year with goals and aspirations, may we aspire to acquire  and be influenced by what He would have for us and not so much what the world would try to shape an influence us with.

 

His mission then was to ransom, redeem and atone for and adopt His children, it continues today, preparing us for when He will return in glory.

In Christ,
Mike
mikevw@bellsouth.net
http://mikesvotd.blogspot.com
Eph 1:7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace  NIV

Galatians 4 (New King James Version)

Galatians 4

 ¹ Now I say that the heir, as long as he is a child, does not differ at all from a slave, though he is master of all, ² but is under guardians and stewards until the time appointed by the father. ³ Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world. ⁴ But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, ⁵ to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons.
⁶ And because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying out, "Abba, Father!" ⁷ Therefore you are no longer a slave but a son, and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.

Verse of the Day - weeken 12/26

Through the Bible - Zechariah 1-6, Revelation 17

 

Good morning,

Many of us over the past few days have read in their Bibles or devotionals, or have heard in messages or in song from Luke 2 the message of Christmas.  Many "seekers" atteneded services to find out more about the Christ child.  For some it will end there and they'll return home and move on with their lives, they'll stop seeking stop searching.

 

The shepherds in Luke 2 could have heard the message from the angel but those who acted on what they heard continued on.

 

Luke 2:12 (Amplified Bible)  And this will be a sign for you [by which you will recognize Him]: you will find [after searching] a Baby wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger. [I Sam. 2:34; II Kings 19:29; Isa. 7:14.]

 

For today's verses we'll continue on in Luke 2 in the Amplified Bible to see that they kept searching until they found Him.

Luke 2:16-17 (Amplified Bible)  So they went with haste and [by searching] found Mary and Joseph, and the Baby lying in a manger.

¹⁷And when they saw it, they made known what had been told them concerning this Child,

Those that continued to search also made known to others what they learned concerning this child.  As we return to our "schedules" will we continue to search, to know Him more and to make Him known this coming year.

 

More about Jesus I would know,
More of His grace to others show;
More of His saving fulness see,
More of His love who died for me.

Refrain:
More, more about Jesus,
More, more about Jesus;
More of His saving fulness see,
More of His love who died for me.

 

More about Jesus let me learn,
More of His holy will discern;
Spirit of God, my teacher be,
Showing the things of Christ to me.

Blessings,
Mike

mikevw@bellsouth.net
mikesvotd.blogspot.com

  Luke 2:11- 18 NLT  ¹¹For to you is born this day in the town of David a Savior, Who is Christ (the Messiah) the Lord!

    ¹²And this will be a sign for you [by which you will recognize Him]: you will find [after searching] a Baby wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger. [I Sam. 2:34; II Kings 19:29; Isa. 7:14.]

    ¹³Then suddenly there appeared with the angel an army of the troops of heaven (a heavenly knighthood), praising God and saying,

    ¹⁴Glory to God in the highest [heaven], and on earth peace among men with whom He is well pleased [men of goodwill, of His favor].

    ¹⁵When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing (saying) that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.

    ¹⁶So they went with haste and [by searching] found Mary and Joseph, and the Baby lying in a manger.

    ¹⁷And when they saw it, they made known what had been told them concerning this Child,

    ¹⁸And all who heard it were astounded and marveled at what the shepherds told them.

Verse of the Day 12/23

Through the Bible - Habakkuk 3-Zephaniah 2, Revelation 15

 

Good morning,

Yesterday we considered the good news that is to be proclaimed to the nations.  This morning I was reading in Psalm 98 and read the following which will serve as our verse for the day today.

 

Psalm 98:1 O SING to the Lord a new song, for He has done marvelous things; His right hand and His holy arm have wrought salvation for Him.

²The Lord has made known His salvation; His righteousness has He openly shown in the sight of the nations.  Amplified Bible

To be righteous is to be put in right standing before God.  It is not something that we could do or achieve on our own.  It was the gift of His son and the offer of salvation through faith and trust in Him thatt can put us in a right relationship with God.

 

As we celebrate Christmas let us remember and celebrate this great gift and be mindful that it is a gift to the nations.  Consider today these few verses  about the Christmas story from Luke 2 as you prepare to celebrate.

 

Luke 2:30-32 (Contemporary English Version)

With my own eyes I have seen

   what you have done

   to save your people,

    ³¹and foreign nations

   will also see this.

    ³²Your mighty power is a light

   for all nations,

   and it will bring honor

   to your people Israel."

In Christ,
Mike
mikevw@bellsouth.net
http://mikesvotd.blogspot.com
Eph 1:7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace  NIV

Psalm 98 (New King James Version)

Psalm 98

A Psalm.

 ¹ Oh, sing to the LORD a new song!
         For He has done marvelous things;
         His right hand and His holy arm have gained Him the victory.
 ² The LORD has made known His salvation;
         His righteousness He has revealed in the sight of the nations.
 ³ He has remembered His mercy and His faithfulness to the house of Israel;
         All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.
         
 ⁴ Shout joyfully to the LORD, all the earth;
         Break forth in song, rejoice, and sing praises.
 ⁵ Sing to the LORD with the harp,
         With the harp and the sound of a psalm,
 ⁶ With trumpets and the sound of a horn;
         Shout joyfully before the LORD, the King.
         
 ⁷ Let the sea roar, and all its fullness,
         The world and those who dwell in it;
 ⁸ Let the rivers clap their hands;
         Let the hills be joyful together
          ⁹ before the LORD,
         For He is coming to judge the earth.
         With righteousness He shall judge the world,
         And the peoples with equity.

Verse of the Day 12/22

Through the Bible - Habakkuk 1-2, Revelation 14

 

Good morning,

For today's verse we'll go to the book of Isaiah for another of the prophecies regarding Jesus the Messiah.

 

Isaiah 42:6-7 (Amplified Bible)  I the Lord have called You [the Messiah] for a righteous purpose and in righteousness; I will take You by the hand and will keep You; I will give You for a covenant to the people [Israel], for a light to the nations [Gentiles],

 ⁷To open the eyes of the blind, to bring out prisoners from the dungeon, and those who sit in darkness from the prison.

 

[To open the blind eyes] . It relates to the Jews as well as to the Gentiles. He would acquaint them with God, and with the way of salvation. The condition of the world is often represented as one of darkness and blindness. Men see not their true character; they see not their real condition; they are ignorant of God, and of the truths pertaining to their future existence; and they need, therefore, some one who shall enlighten, and sanctify, and save them. - From 'Barnes Notes"

 

The true "Christmas Story" is one that is "for all people" as proclaimed by the angels.  It is a story truth, mercy, peace and light, and let us not forget, hope.  As we saw yesterday, it is a message that is to be shared, spread, and proclaimed.  Doing so will help bring light to this dark world.

 

 We've a story to tell to the nations, 
that shall turn their hearts to the right,
a story of truth and mercy,
a story of peace and light,
a story of peace and light.
Refrain:
For the darkness shall turn to dawning,
and the dawning to noonday bright;
and Christ's great kingdom shall come on earth,
the kingdom of love and light. 

We've a message to give to the nations,
that the Lord who reigneth above
hath sent us his Son to save us,
and show us that God is love,
and show us that God is love.

In Christ,
Mike
mikevw@bellsouth.net
http://mikesvotd.blogspot.com
Eph 1:7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace  NIV
Isa 42:1-8

 

42 "Here is my servant, whom I uphold,
my chosen one in whom I delight;
I will put my Spirit on him
and he will bring justice to the nations.
2 He will not shout or cry out,
or raise his voice in the streets.
3 A bruised reed he will not break,
and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out.
In faithfulness he will bring forth justice;
4 he will not falter or be discouraged
till he establishes justice on earth.
In his law the islands will put their hope."

 

5 This is what God the Lord says —
he who created the heavens and stretched them out,
who spread out the earth and all that comes out of it,
who gives breath to its people,
and life to those who walk on it:
6 "I, the Lord, have called you in righteousness;
I will take hold of your hand.
I will keep you and will make you
to be a covenant for the people
and a light for the Gentiles,
7 to open eyes that are blind,
to free captives from prison
and to release from the dungeon those who sit in darkness.   NIV

Verse of the Day 12/21

Through the Bible - Nahum 2-3, Revelation 13

 

Good morning,

Christmas is a season of hope.  Some will place their hope in the magic of Christmas to restore relationships to bring healing and to bring joy.

It is not Christmas that can bring these things.  The hopes and fears of all the years, as the song "O Little Town of Bethlehem" tells us, are met in Thee, met in Him.

Pastor Greg Laurie writes:

 

Christmas cannot be all that we want it to be. It's only a holiday. Christmas cannot bring harmony to your home. Christmas cannot bring peace on earth. Christmas cannot bring happiness.

But Christ Himself can do all of this and more. That is really what we are longing for deep inside.

• Not Christmas, but Christ.
• Not merriment, but the Messiah.
• Not goodwill, but God.
• Not presents, but His presence.

Anything or anyone short of this will disappoint. But God never will.

That's what I want for Christmas—Jesus Christ.

 

For today's verse we'll go once again to Colassians 1 where Paul has told us that we have access to God, access to our longings, our true hopes through Christ.  Why would we place our hope in anything or anyone else?

 

Colossians 1:23 (New Century Version)  This will happen if you continue strong and sure in your faith. You must not be moved away from the hope brought to you by the Good News that you heard. That same Good News has been told to everyone in the world, and I, Paul, help in preaching that Good News.

Luke 2:10-11 (New International Version, ©2010)  But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. ¹¹ Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.

The angel spoke of the good news which is for all people,  Paul preached the good news, may we spread the good news that it is Jesus Himself, Immanuel, God with us,  that can fill our longing if we will come to Him and continue in Him.

 

In Christ,
Mike
mikevw@bellsouth.net
http://mikesvotd.blogspot.com
Eph 1:7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace  NIV

Colossians 1:19-23 (New King James Version)

Reconciled in Christ

   
¹⁹ For it pleased the Father that in Him all the fullness should dwell, ²⁰ and by Him to reconcile all things to Himself, by Him, whether things on earth or things in heaven, having made peace through the blood of His cross.
²¹ And you, who once were alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now He has reconciled ²² in the body of His flesh through death, to present you holy, and blameless, and above reproach in His sight— ²³ if indeed you continue in the faith, grounded and steadfast, and are not moved away from the hope of the gospel which you heard, which was preached to every creature under heaven, of which I, Paul, became a minister.

Verse of the Day 12/20

Through the Bible - Nahum 1, Revelation 12

 

Good morning,

This weekend's verse challenged and encouraged us to draw near to God.  Through His death and resurrection Jesus Christ has provided access to God.  It is a new way, that leads to a better life now and for eternity.

Hebrews 10:19-21 (Contemporary English Version)  My friends, the blood of Jesus gives us courage to enter the most holy place ²⁰by a new way that leads to life! And this way takes us through the curtain that is Christ himself.

As I finished the devotional for the weekend, the following hymn came to  mind.  It is one that is more often sang at Easter.  But as we prepare to celebrate Christmas we remember that it started with God sending His son in the form of a child.  Amazing love, how can it be.

 

And Can it Be?

And can it be that I should gain
An interest in the Savior's blood?
Died He for me, who caused His pain?
For me, who Him to death pursued?
Amazing love! How can it be,
That Thou, my God, shouldst die for me?

Bold I approach th'eternal throne,
And claim the crown, through Christ my own.
Amazing love! How can it be,
That Thou, my God, shouldst die for me? 

 

Blessings,
Mike

mikevw@bellsouth.net
mikesvotd.blogspot.com

Hebrews 10:19-25 (New King James Version)

Hold Fast Your Confession

   
¹⁹ Therefore, brethren, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus, ²⁰ by a new and living way which He consecrated for us, through the veil, that is, His flesh, ²¹ and having a High Priest over the house of God, ²² let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. ²³ Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. ²⁴ And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, ²⁵ not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.

Verse of the Day - weekend 12/18

Through the Bible - Micah 3-7, Revelation 11

 

Good morning,

There is an ongoing debate within the Christian community about altar calls and "decisions" for Christ.  I am not going to get into that debate here, but I would like us to consider a few verses in Hebrews 10 that call us to draw near to Christ.

At a time when we celebrate God's drawing near to us in sending Jesus in the form of a child, let us draw near to Him in our hearts and minds.

Hebrews 10:22-23 (Amplified Bible)  Let us all come forward and draw near with true (honest and sincere) hearts in unqualified assurance and absolute conviction engendered by faith (by that leaning of the entire human personality on God in absolute trust and confidence in His power, wisdom, and goodness), having our hearts sprinkled and purified from a guilty (evil) conscience and our bodies cleansed with pure water.

²³So let us seize and hold fast and retain without wavering the hope we cherish and confess and our acknowledgement of it, for He Who promised is reliable (sure) and faithful to His word.

The NKJV, NIV and other translations start verse 22 with"let us draw near".  In the Amplified version we read "let us all come forward and draw near".  It is significant here because the passage talks about Jesus coming and after His death, resurrection and ascention to the throne of God we now have access to the Father, through the veil, to the holy of holys.  The verse gives us a mental picture of being able to enter through the veil to offer our confessions and prayers to the Father through Jesus.

 

In the Old Testament is a was truly a privilege, an honor to be granted access once a year.  What would it have felt like?  We should think of this as we draw near, picture coming forward.  It involves or will, just as coming forward after an alter call to dedicate or rededicate our lives to Christ.

As you worship this weekend, stand in awe of the gift of our Savior, this child.  Stand in awe of the privilege that He gave us to boldly approach the throne of grace.
 

Praise to the Lord, the Almighty, the King of creation!
O my soul, praise Him, for He is thy health and salvation!
All ye who hear, now to His temple draw near;
Praise Him in glad adoration.

 

Blessings,
Mike

mikevw@bellsouth.net
mikesvotd.blogspot.com

Hebrews 10:19-25 (New King James Version)

Hold Fast Your Confession

   
¹⁹ Therefore, brethren, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus, ²⁰ by a new and living way which He consecrated for us, through the veil, that is, His flesh, ²¹ and having a High Priest over the house of God, ²² let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. ²³ Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. ²⁴ And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, ²⁵ not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.

Verse of the Day 12/17

through the Bible - Jonah 4- Micah 2, Revelation 10

 

Good morning,

Many people in today's society are labeled as being fanatics.  From Tea Party members or "Tea Baggers" on the political side to devout Christians in regards to their faith.

John Stott writes, "At the end of a statement prepared for a conference on science, philosophy and religion at Princeton University in 1940 came these words: 'Commitment without reflection is fanaticism in action; but reflection without commitment is the paralysis of all action.'

 

In both the spiritual and political arenas, you can see this being played out.

 

For today's verse we'll go to Hebrews 11 where the core of true faith is described.  I read these verses one morning not knowing that it would end up being the most difficult day in my life to that point or since.  These verses, this chapter stuck with me.  Instead of reminding me of the tragedy, they have reminded me of God's grace and the hope we have in the "dark night of the soul", that He is there for those who will hold on.

Hebrews 11:1-2 (Amplified Bible)  NOW FAITH is the assurance (the confirmation, the title deed) of the things [we] hope for, being the proof of things [we] do not see and the conviction of their reality [faith perceiving as real fact what is not revealed to the senses].

 ^For by [faith--trust and holy fervor born of faith] the men of old had divine testimony borne to them and obtained a good report.

True faith is wholehearted faith and is not based on a feeling or emotionalism.  It is based on substance.  I like the words the Amplified Bible uses, it is the title deed of the things we hope for, we own it free and clear based on what Christ has accomplished and is accomplishing in hearts and lives today.  We see it in the Bible, Old and New Testaments, we've seen the results of it in our lives as we look back.  We hope and pray for it in our children's and grandchildren's lives as we look forward.  From the outside world , faith,  in the midst of trials or at any time may seem extreme.

Read the beginning of verse 2 above, "faith - trust and holy fervor born of faith" speaks of a faith that is being stretched to the limit, to the boiling point.  Read the quote from John Stott again in its fuller context, "The idea of being on fire for Christ will strike some people as dangerous emotionalism.  'Surely,' they will say, 'we are not meant to go to extremes?  You are not asking us to become hot-gospel fanatics?'  Well, wait a minute.  It depends what you mean.  If by 'fanaticism' you really mean 'wholeheartedness,' then Christianity is a fanatical religion and every Christian should be a fanatic.  But fanaticism is not wholeheartedness, nor is wholeheartedness fanaticism.  Fanaticism is an unreasoning and unintelligent wholeheartedness.  It is the running away of the heart with the head.  At the end of a statement prepared for a conference on science, philosophy and religion at Princeton University in 1940 came these words: 'Commitment without reflection is fanaticism in action; but reflection without commitment is the paralysis of all action.'  What Jesus Christ desires and deserves is the reflection which leads to commitment and the commitment which is born of reflection.  This is the meaning of wholeheartedness, of being aflame for God."  - John R. W. Stott, What Christ Thinks of the Church (Grand Rapids, 1958), pages 116-117

Would believing in a baby born in Bethlehem being the Savior of the world put you in danger of being labeled as a religious fanatic?  If so, so be it.

 

In Christ,
Mike
mikevw@bellsouth.net
http://mikesvotd.blogspot.com
Eph 1:7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace  NIV

Hebrews 11 (New King James Version)

Hebrews 11

By Faith We Understand

 ¹ Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. ² For by it the elders obtained a good testimony.
³ By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible.

Verse of the Day 12/16

Through the Bible - Obadiah - Jonah 3, Revelation 9

 

Good morning,

I read the following statement from Soren Kierkegaard the other day - "The function of prayer is not to influence God, but rather to change the nature of the one who prays."  It is one that can take time to "wrap your head around".

All too often our prayers are much like Christmas wish lists which we can easily relate to this time of year.

 

For today's verse we'll go to Ephesians 1 where we see what Paul prayed for the church at Ephesus.  May it be our prayer today, a prayer that would change our nature.

 

Ephesians 1:17-19 from The Message

I ask—ask the God of our Master, Jesus Christ, the God of glory—to make you intelligent and discerning in knowing him personally, your eyes focused and clear, so that you can see exactly what it is he is calling you to do, grasp the immensity of this glorious way of life he has for his followers, oh, the utter extravagance of his work in us who trust him—endless energy, boundless strength!

 

May the eyes of your heart be flooded with light this season, so that you see and know the hope to which He has called you.  May you see it in Bible passages you read, may you hear it in Christmas songs and hymns that you sing, may it change the function of our prayers away from ourselves and to what God would have for us.

 

Psalm 89:5-9 (The Message)  God! Let the cosmos praise your wonderful ways,
      the choir of holy angels sing anthems to your faithful ways!
   Search high and low, scan skies and land,
      you'll find nothing and no one quite like God.
   The holy angels are in awe before him;
      he looms immense and august over everyone around him.
   God-of-the-Angel-Armies, who is like you,
      powerful and faithful from every angle?
   You put the arrogant ocean in its place
      and calm its waves when they turn unruly.

In Christ,
Mike
mikevw@bellsouth.net
http://mikesvotd.blogspot.com
Eph 1:7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace  NIV

Ephesians 1:15-21 (New King James Version)

Prayer for Spiritual Wisdom

   
¹⁵ Therefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, ¹⁶ do not cease to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers: ¹⁷ that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, ¹⁸ the eyes of your understanding^[a] being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, ¹⁹ and what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power ²⁰ which He worked in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places, ²¹ far above all principality and power and might and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in that which is to come.

Verse of the Day 12/14

Through the Bible - Amos 4-6, Revelation 7   

 

Good morning,

There is a commercial that is shown this time of year where you see a woman finding a large present as she enters her house.  You know the drill, show opens box after box, finally coming to the smallest package containing the precious gift.

In some respects, Christmas, the true Christmas story is like that.  So much has been wrapped around it; from Santa and the reindeer to the Grinch to Scrooge that many people never get to, never take the time to unwrap the story of the greatest gift.  Those of us who are drawn to keep unwrapping all the empty boxes to get down to the true gift.

 

Colossians 1:13-14 (Amplified Bible) [The Father] has delivered and drawn us to Himself out of the control and the dominion of darkness and has transferred us into the kingdom of the Son of His love,

¹⁴In Whom we have our redemption through His blood, [which means] the forgiveness of our sins.

We should continue to unwrap this gift every day, desiring to find out more about this child this gift, because - "He is the exact likeness of the unseen God [the visible representation of the invisible]; He is the Firstborn of all creation.  Colossians 1:15 (Amplified Bible) 

What Child is this who, laid to rest
On Mary's lap is sleeping?
Whom Angels greet with anthems sweet,
While shepherds watch are keeping?

[CHORUS]  
This, this is Christ the King,
Whom shepherds guard and Angels sing;
Haste, haste, to bring Him laud,
The Babe, the Son of Mary.

Matthew 4:16 (New King James Version) The people who sat in darkness have seen a great light,
      And upon those who sat in the region and shadow of death Light has dawned."

In Christ,
Mike
mikevw@bellsouth.net
http://mikesvotd.blogspot.com
Eph 1:7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace  NIV

Colossians 1:13-18 (New King James Version)

¹³ He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love, ¹⁴ in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins.
¹⁵ He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. ¹⁶ For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him. ¹⁷ And He is before all things, and in Him all things consist. ¹⁸ And He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence.

Verse of the Day - weekend 12/11

Through the Bible - Hosea 11- Joel 2, Revelation 5   

 

Good morning,

One of my favorite hymns through the years has been "Holy, Holy, Holy".  It always brings to mind pictures of the scenes in Isaiah 6 and Revelation 4 of the angels around the throne of God.

For this weekend's verse we'll go to Revelation 4

Revelation 4:8-9 (Amplified Bible)  And the four living creatures, individually having six wings, were full of eyes all over and within [underneath their wings]; and day and night they never stop saying, Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty (Omnipotent), Who was and Who is and Who is to come.

⁹And whenever the living creatures offer glory and honor and thanksgiving to Him Who sits on the throne, Who lives forever and ever (through the eternities of the eternities), ¹⁰The twenty-four elders (the members of the heavenly Sanhedrin) fall prostrate before Him Who is sitting on the throne, and they worship Him Who lives forever and ever; and they throw down their crowns before the throne,

A more modern song also captures the wonder and majesty of the scene in Revelation.  As your read some of the words to the "Revelation Song" consider the awe and wonder as expressed by Mary as she pondered all that God had done or the shepherds as they saw and heard the angels in the night sky proclaiming thed Messiah's birth.

 

Filled with wonder, awestruck wonder
At the mention of Your Name
Jesus, Your Name is power, breath and living water, such a marvelous mys- tery

CHORUS

Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty
Who was and is and is to come
With all creation I sing praise to the King of kings
You are my everything, and I will adore You

Take some time to sing one or both of these songs in your mind or out loud as preparation for worship this weekend.

 

Revelation 4:11 (Amplified Bible) " Worthy are You, our Lord and God, to receive the glory and the honor and dominion, for You created all things; by Your will they were [brought into being] and were created."

 

Such a marvelous mystery indeed.

In Christ,
Mike
mikevw@bellsouth.net
http://mikesvotd.blogspot.com
Eph 1:7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace  NIV
Rev 4:6-5:1

 

In the center, around the throne, were four living creatures, and they were covered with eyes, in front and in back. 7 The first living creature was like a lion, the second was like an ox, the third had a face like a man, the fourth was like a flying eagle. 8 Each of the four living creatures had six wings and was covered with eyes all around, even under his wings. Day and night they never stop saying:

 

"Holy, holy, holy
is the Lord God Almighty,
who was, and is, and is to come."

 

9 Whenever the living creatures give glory, honor and thanks to him who sits on the throne and who lives for ever and ever, 10 the twenty-four elders fall down before him who sits on the throne, and worship him who lives for ever and ever. They lay their crowns before the throne and say:

 

11 "You are worthy, our Lord and God,
to receive glory and honor and power,
for you created all things,
and by your will they were created
and have their being."     NIV

Verse of the Day 12/10

Through the Bible - Hosea 7-10, Revelation 4

 

Good morning,

For some reason the song "Come Thou Long Expected Jesus" has been on my mind lately, the thoughts of the hope and consolation keep showing up in verses that I read.

 

Come, thou long expected Jesus,
born to set thy people free;
from our fears and sins release us,
let us find our rest in thee. 
Israel's strength and consolation,
hope of all the earth thou art;
dear desire of every nation,
joy of every longing heart.

This hope is one that will not be fully actualized until we meet our Saviour beyond this life, but it starts now.

There is a commercial that I've seen several times from a company that offers to get their clients cash settlements now.  They had agreed to a long term payout, but the people in the commercial are pictured shouting out of their windows and the doors of their houses "its my money and I want it now".  They cannot wait for the future "payment" a future consolation.

 

Believers through the ages have looked for the future as pilgrims and strangers here on earth as Abraham is described in Hebrews 11:10 (Amplified Bible)  "For he was [waiting expectantly and confidently] looking forward to the city which has fixed and firm foundations, whose Architect and Builder is God."

 

For today's verse we'll go to 2 Thessalonians where Paul gives us some encouragement for today.

2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 (Amplified Bible)  Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God our Father, Who loved us and gave us everlasting consolation and encouragement and well-founded hope through [His] grace (unmerited favor),

¹⁷Comfort and encourage your hearts and strengthen them [make them steadfast and keep them unswerving] in every good work and word.

Our Lord Jesus Christ, He is our hope and consolation now and He comforts, encourages, and strengthens us to keep us steadfast and unswerving as we, like Abraham look towards that city whose Architect and Builder is God.
 

Blessings,
Mike

mikevw@bellsouth.net
mikesvotd.blogspot.com

2 Thessalonians 2:13-17 (New King James Version)

Stand Fast 
¹³ But we are bound to give thanks to God always for you, brethren beloved by the Lord, because God from the beginning chose you for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth, ¹⁴ to which He called you by our gospel, for the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. ¹⁵ Therefore, brethren, stand fast and hold the traditions which you were taught, whether by word or our epistle.
¹⁶ Now 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, ¹⁷ comfort your hearts and establish you in every good word and work.

Verse of the Day 12/9

Through the Bible - Hosea 5-6, Revelation 3

 

Good morning,

Today's New Testament reading from above is from Revelation 3 which completes the description of the 7 churches in Revelation.  The church at Laodicea was a wealthy church in a wealthy city and was a center of banking and pharmeceutical industry.  The "Today in the Word" devotional from yesterday stated "but all the money in the city wouldn't make the church spiritually rich; all the medicine wouldn't make them spiritually healthy.  Their misplaced priorities and perspectives had left the church "wretched, pitiful, poor, blind, and naked."

For today's verse we'll go to verses 17 and 18 from that chapter.

 

Revelation 3:17-18 (The Message)  ^15-17"I know you inside and out, and find little to my liking. You're not cold, you're not hot—far better to be either cold or hot! You're stale. You're stagnant. You make me want to vomit. You brag, 'I'm rich, I've got it made, I need nothing from anyone,' oblivious that in fact you're a pitiful, blind beggar, threadbare and homeless.

 ¹⁸"Here's what I want you to do: Buy your gold from me, gold that's been through the refiner's fire. Then you'll be rich. Buy your clothes from me, clothes designed in Heaven. You've gone around half-naked long enough. And buy medicine for your eyes from me so you can see, really see.

 

The Message speaks of a stale and stagnant church.  Pastor and author Don Fortner writes:

"Religion in America is big business. Scads of money, powerful personalities, huge egos, and positions of prominence, influence, and recognition are at stake in the business of religion, just as they are in any other business. There was a time when the concern of churches and preachers in this country was the glory of God and the truth of God. Today, like any business, the concern is for success.

Christianity today is market-driven. The goal of all marketing is to make both the buyer and the seller satisfied. Consequently, market-driven churches, in utter abandonment of God's glory and God's truth, in their insatiable quest for success and recognition--do whatever it takes to win customers and keep them."
 

Like the churches in Revelation 2 and 3, the Christian church in America today would benefit from an evaluation of itself, a comparison with these churches, to hear what the Spirit would have to say to them, to us.

Blessings,
Mike

mikevw@bellsouth.net
mikesvotd.blogspot.com

Revelation 3:14-22 (New King James Version)  The Lukewarm Church

   
¹⁴ "And to the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write,
'These things says the Amen, the Faithful and True Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God: ¹⁵ "I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. ¹⁶ So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth. ¹⁷ Because you say, 'I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing'—and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked— ¹⁸ I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see. ¹⁹ As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent. ²⁰ Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me. ²¹ To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.
²² "He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches."'"

Verse of the Day 12/8

Through the Bible - Hosea 3-4, Revelation 2

 

Good morning,

As we go through the Christmas season I would encourage you to read the accounts of the events in the gospels.  As you do, try to put yourself in the place of the people.  Today we'll go to Matthew chapter 1.  Try to think what Mary had asked Joseph to believe. Then try to think of Joseph's reaction to the visit of the angel of the Lord in a dream.

Matthew 1:22-23 (New International Version, ©2010) All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: ²³ "The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel" (which means "God with us").

The angel's message was confirmed by the prophecy of Isaiah some 700 years earlier.

 

Isaiah 7:14 (New King James Version) Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel.

 

Each step along the way the people in the story from the wise men, to Mary and Joseph to Elizabeth and Zacharias, to Simeon were all challenged to believe.  As they saw God's plan unfold their believing, their trusting was confirmed.

 

Faith may not come all at once but step by step God reveals His plan.  The individual events may be difficult to believe, but when you step back and take a look at the whole picture you begin to see, to accept the reality of His tapestry.

"The crucial significance of the cradle at Bethlehem lies in its place in the sequence of steps that led the Son of God to the cross of Calvary, and we do not understand it till we see it in this context. "- J. I. Packer - Knowing God

Though not a Christmas hymn, read these words from "It is Well With My Soul" that speak of the blessed hope, the blessed rest of our soul.

 

Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,
Let this blest assurance control,
That Christ has regarded my helpless estate,
And hath shed His own blood for my soul.

 

It is well, with my soul,
It is well, it is well, with my soul

 

But, Lord, 'tis for Thee, for Thy coming we wait,
The sky, not the grave, is our goal;
Oh, trump of the angel! Oh, voice of the Lord!
Blessed hope, blessed rest of my soul!
 

Blessings,
Mike

mikevw@bellsouth.net
mikesvotd.blogspot.com

Matthew 1:18-25 (New King James Version)

Christ Born of Mary

   
¹⁸ Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows: After His mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Spirit. ¹⁹ Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not wanting to make her a public example, was minded to put her away secretly. ²⁰ But while he thought about these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take to you Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. ²¹ And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins."
²² So all this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying: ²³ "Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel," which is translated, "God with us."
²⁴ Then Joseph, being aroused from sleep, did as the angel of the Lord commanded him and took to him his wife, ²⁵ and did not know her till she had brought forth her firstborn Son. And he called His name JESUS

Verse of the Day 12/7

Through the Bible - Hosea 1-2, Revelation 1

 

Good morning,

In my devotions I've been reading in the book of Jeremiah.  This morning, I read the following verses:

Jeremiah 5:30-31 (The Message) "Unspeakable! Sickening!
   What's happened in this country?
Prophets preach lies
   and priests hire on as their assistants.
And my people love it. They eat it up!
   But what will you do when it's time to pick up the pieces?"

 In my Bible Micah 2:11 was referenced;Micah 2:11 (New International Version, ©2010)  If a liar and deceiver comes and says,
   'I will prophesy for you plenty of wine and beer,'   that would be just the prophet for this people!

 

What did you picture in your mind when you read that?  It sounds like the Church of the Tailgate.  It would be what many people would like to hear.  Come hear a short message that will cheer you, party with friends and then enter the sanctuary and worship the team.

 

The New Testament reading plan (above) is moving into the book of Revelation. The first few chapters are a message to the churches of the day and to the churches of today.  We can learn a lot about the condition of our own churches as we read about these.

Today's verses come from Revelation 1.

Revelation 1:7-8 (New International Version, ©2010) "Look, he is coming with the clouds,"  and "every eye will see him, even those who pierced him";  and all peoples on earth "will mourn because of him."     So shall it be! Amen.

⁸ "I am the Alpha and the Omega," says the Lord God, "who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty."

He is the One that we should be worshiping, serving, celebrating in this season and every day of our lives.

Take some time over the next couple of days and see what John was told to write to these churches and to us.

 

Revelation 1:11 (New International Version, ©2010)   "Write on a scroll what you see and send it to the seven churches: to Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea."

Blessings,
Mike

mikevw@bellsouth.net
mikesvotd.blogspot.com

Revelation 1:4-8 (New International Version, ©2010)

Greetings and Doxology

 ⁴ John,

   To the seven churches in the province of Asia:

   Grace and peace to you from him who is, and who was, and who is to come, and from the seven spirits before his throne, ⁵ and from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth.

   To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood, ⁶ and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father—to him be glory and power for ever and ever! Amen.

 ⁷ "Look, he is coming with the clouds,"
   and "every eye will see him,
even those who pierced him";
   and all peoples on earth "will mourn because of him."
            So shall it be! Amen.

 ⁸ "I am the Alpha and the Omega," says the Lord God, "who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty."

Verse of the Day 12/6

Through the Bible - Daniel 11-12, Jude

 

Good morning,

The prayer from yesterday's hymn, "Come Thou Long Expected Jesus" will, from a steadfast, persevering heart and spirit, show that we.. Proverbs 3:5 (New King James Version)  "Trust in the LORD with all your heart,
      And lean not on your own understanding;"

Today's verse follow, they tell us that if we submit to him, and .....

⁶In all your ways know, recognize, and acknowledge Him, and He will direct and make straight and plain your paths.

    ⁷Be not wise in your own eyes; reverently fear and worship the Lord and turn [entirely] away from evil.  Proverbs 3:6-7 (Amplified Bible)

What difference will it  make in your life today if you would "know, recognize, and acknowledge Him" in all your activities, thoughts and conversations today?  How would it impact those around you?

 

Let, allow Him to direct your path today, not being wise in our own eyes but being open to His leading.

 

John 8:31-32 (The Message)  Then Jesus turned to the Jews who had claimed to believe in him. "If you stick with this, living out what I tell you, you are my disciples for sure. Then you will experience for yourselves the truth, and the truth will free you."

In Christ,
Mike
mikevw@bellsouth.net
http://mikesvotd.blogspot.com
Eph 1:7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace  NIV

Proverbs 3

Guidance for the Young

 ¹ My son, do not forget my law,

    But let your heart keep my commands;
       ² For length of days and long life
      And peace they will add to you.
       ³ Let not mercy and truth forsake you;
      Bind them around your neck,
      Write them on the tablet of your heart,
       ⁴ And so find favor and high esteem
      In the sight of God and man.
       ⁵ Trust in the LORD with all your heart,
      And lean not on your own understanding;
       ⁶ In all your ways acknowledge Him,
      And He shall direct your paths.
       ⁷ Do not be wise in your own eyes;
      Fear the LORD and depart from evil.
       ⁸ It will be health to your flesh,
      And strength to your bones.

Verse of the Day - weekend 12/5

Through the Bible - Daniel 5-10, 2 John - 3 John

 

Good morning,

A common question this time of year is "what do you want for Christmas"?

In the church in America there is a difference between the God we want and the God who is, the God whom we need.

For this weekend's verse we'll go to the book of Jeremiah for another of the prophecies of the coming Messiah and gives us some insight into the God who is and the God we need.

Jeremiah 23:5-6 (Amplified Bible) Behold, the days are coming, says the Lord, when I will raise up to David a righteous Branch (Sprout), and He will reign as King and do wisely and will execute justice and righteousness in the land. 

 ⁶In His days Judah shall be saved and Israel shall dwell safely: and this is His name by which He shall be called: The Lord Our Righteousness.

As you prepare for or look back on worship this weekend consider this name for our Messiah, our Savior, "the Lord Our Righteousness".

To be righteous means to be in "right standing" before God.  It is not something we can accomplish on our own, never have, never will.  As we find in the New Testament, particularly in the book of Hebrews, all the sacrifices in the world are not enough to put us, to keep us in right standing before God.   Hebrews 10:3 (New King James Version) " But in those sacrifices there is a reminder of sins every year.  ⁴ For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and goats could take away sins."  It took the sacrifice of Jesus who gave Himself for us for there to put us in right standing before God through faith in Him.

 

As a part of worship this weekend, think of or sing the following Christmas hymn, "Come Thou Long Expected Jesus".  He is the God, the Savior, the gift that we need.

 

1.	Come, thou long expected Jesus,  	born to set thy people free;  	from our fears and sins release us,  	let us find our rest in thee.   	Israel's strength and consolation,  	hope of all the earth thou art;  	dear desire of every nation,  	joy of every longing heart.  2.	Born thy people to deliver,  	born a child and yet a King,  	born to reign in us forever,  	now thy gracious kingdom bring.  	By thine own eternal spirit  	rule in all our hearts alone;  	by thine all sufficient merit,  	raise us to thy glorious throne. 

In Christ,

Mike
mikevw@bellsouth.net
http://mikesvotd.blogspot.com
Eph 1:7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace  NIV

Jeremiah 23 (New King James Version)

Jeremiah 23

The Branch of Righteousness

 ¹ "Woe to the shepherds who destroy and scatter the sheep of My pasture!" says the LORD. ² Therefore thus says the LORD God of Israel against the shepherds who feed My people: "You have scattered My flock, driven them away, and not attended to them. Behold, I will attend to you for the evil of your doings," says the LORD. ³ "But I will gather the remnant of My flock out of all countries where I have driven them, and bring them back to their folds; and they shall be fruitful and increase. ⁴ I will set up shepherds over them who will feed them; and they shall fear no more, nor be dismayed, nor shall they be lacking," says the LORD.
       ⁵ " Behold, the days are coming," says the LORD,

      " That I will raise to David a Branch of righteousness;
      A King shall reign and prosper,
      And execute judgment and righteousness in the earth.
       ⁶ In His days Judah will be saved,
      And Israel will dwell safely;
      Now this is His name by which He will be called:

      THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS.

Verse of the Day 12/3

Through the Bible - Daniel 3-4, 1 John 5

 

Good morning,

There is a lot of talk these days about "sustainability" and the renewal of resources.  Yesterday we considered God's perfect peace.  Being perfect, it has to be sustainable, renewable.

Today's verses are probably or at least should be familiar to us.  They come from the center of the book of Lamentations, chapter 3, and encourage us to "dare to hope".

Lamentations 3:21-23 (New Living Translation)  Yet I still dare to hope
      when I remember this: 

 ²² The faithful love of the Lord never ends!
      His mercies never cease.
 ²³ Great is his faithfulness;
      his mercies begin afresh each morning.

 It is a fitting verse for those of you who are following along and reading through the Old Testament and are currently in the book of Daniel.  Daniel was a person who dared to hope.  He felt God's and received God's mercies in the morning after spending a night in the lion's den, alone.  But he wasn't alone.

 

With the story of Daniel as a backdrop, read the words to New Mercy by Philips, Craig and Dean

 

On my knees I found to my surprise
That your mercy renewed with the sunrise

You make Your mercy new every day
You change my life in so many ways
You cradle me in Your sweet grace
You fill me
Yesterday, today, forever more
There's one thing I know for sure
Fresh as the morning dew
You make Your mercy new
Every morning

Oh the wasted times that I have known
A prodigal away from home
Not knowing
Every day Your grace was multiplied
With forgiveness waiting to provide
To save the entire world
How much grace would it take?
When the sun comes up
There will be enough

May God bring you peace as you dare to hope in the Lord.  Read the Lamentations passage from the Message or another translation, may it encourage you today.

 

Blessings,
Mike

mikevw@bellsouth.net
mikesvotd.blogspot.com

It's a Good Thing to Hope for Help from God

 ^19-21I'll never forget the trouble, the utter lostness,
   the taste of ashes, the poison I've swallowed.
I remember it all—oh, how well I remember—
   the feeling of hitting the bottom.
But there's one other thing I remember,
   and remembering, I keep a grip on hope:

 ^22-24God's loyal love couldn't have run out,
   his merciful love couldn't have dried up.
They're created new every morning.
   How great your faithfulness!
I'm sticking with God (I say it over and over).
   He's all I've got left.

 ^25-27God proves to be good to the man who passionately waits,
   to the woman who diligently seeks.
It's a good thing to quietly hope,
   quietly hope for help from God.
It's a good thing when you're young
   to stick it out through the hard times.

 ^28-30When life is heavy and hard to take,
   go off by yourself. Enter the silence.
Bow in prayer. Don't ask questions:
   Wait for hope to appear.
Don't run from trouble. Take it full-face.
   The "worst" is never the worst.

 ^31-33Why? Because the Master won't ever
   walk out and fail to return.