Verse of the Day - weekend 10/30

Through the Bible - Jeremiah 29-34, Titus 3, Philemon

 

Good morning,

The elections are still a few days away which means that we'll continue to be bombarded by all kinds of negative political commercials.

This mornings New Testament reading is from Titus 3.  Today's verses serve as a reminder to us to have respect and be obedient to the local government and officials, doing 'honorable' work.

Titus 3:1-2 (Amplified Bible) REMIND PEOPLE to be submissive to [their] magistrates and authorities, to be obedient, to be prepared and willing to do any upright and honorable work,

²To slander or abuse or speak evil of no one, to avoid being contentious, to be forbearing (yielding, gentle, and conciliatory), and to show unqualified courtesy toward everybody.
 

The verses should also serve as sound advice to officials and candidates to do upright and honorable work.  All too often what we are hearing is just the opposite.  Slanderous, abusive, and being contentious seem to be the norm.

I think a lot more people would show interest in the elections if candidates were gentle, conciliatory, showing "unqualified" courtesy towards everybody, including their opposition.

 

It may be too much to expect from them but what about us?  May we " be forbearing (yielding, gentle, and conciliatory), and to show unqualified courtesy toward everybody." (v.2).  What difference would it make in our households, churches, and businesses if we should these qualities?  Why not give it a try?

Blessings,
Mike

mikevw@bellsouth.net
mikesvotd.blogspot.com

Titus 3 (New King James Version)

 ¹ Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work, ² to speak evil of no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing all humility to all men. ³ For we ourselves were also once foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving various lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful and hating one another. ⁴ But when the kindness and the love of God our Savior toward man appeared, ⁵ not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit, ⁶ whom He poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior, ⁷ that having been justified by His grace we should become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.
⁸ This is a faithful saying, and these things I want you to affirm constantly, that those who have believed in God should be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable to men.

Verse of the Day 10/29

Through the Bible - Jeremiah 27-28, Titus 2

 

Good morning,

There has been a lot of talk in this political season about illegal aliens.  The discourse breaks down to what are the qualifications of citizenship and who can grant it.

For today's verse we'll go to Philippians 3 which speaks of a different kind of citizenship,where our hearts reside. 

Philippians 3:20 (Amplified Bible)  ⁰But we are citizens of the state (commonwealth, homeland) which is in heaven, and from it also we earnestly and patiently await [the coming of] the Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah) [as] Savior,

The verse points out that as Christians, our citizenship, our homeland is in heaven.  Bible commentator Marcus Maxwell writes, "the word translated 'citizenship', or more often by the rare (in modern usage) 'commonwealth', is politeuma, and it doesn't actually mean quite the same thing as citizenship, although it includes that idea.  It means something like the rule, or government, which makes us what we are, even though it is not close at hand...  Christians are made what they are by the rule of heaven; they are part of the kingdom of God, and answerable first and foremost to Him."

 

Citizen doesn't have to do so much by where you live, its more about by whose and under whose authority do you live.  As Christians, we are aliens on earth because we live under the authority of Christ, not following the ways of the world.

 

When seeking citizenship, one is seeking first of all, to live under the rule and authority of the governing power.  For Christians it is God, desiring to follow Christ, letting Him rule in our hearts, and living according to His principles.

Its more about serving than being served.

Quite a contrast to the political discourse of the day.

Blessings,
Mike

mikevw@bellsouth.net
mikesvotd.blogspot.com

Philippians 3:17-21 (New Living Translation)

 ¹⁷ Dear brothers and sisters, pattern your lives after mine, and learn from those who follow our example. ¹⁸ For I have told you often before, and I say it again with tears in my eyes, that there are many whose conduct shows they are really enemies of the cross of Christ. ¹⁹ They are headed for destruction. Their god is their appetite, they brag about shameful things, and they think only about this life here on earth. ²⁰ But we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we are eagerly waiting for him to return as our Savior. ²¹ He will take our weak mortal bodies and change them into glorious bodies like his own, using the same power with which he will bring everything under his control.

Verse of the Day 10/28

Through the Bible - Jeremiah 24-26, Titus 1

 

Good morning,

Yesterday we read from 2 Timothy 3:16 that through God's Word we can be "thoroughly equipped" to do His work, His will.

Equipping involves training.  When you receive a new piece of equipment some training is normally involved before you become adept at using it.  For the Christian, that training process is discipleship.  Jesus spent a lot of His time "discipling" the disciples.

For today's verse we'll go to 2 Timothy 2 where Paul instructs Timothy to equip others, to pass the faith along.

 

2 Timothy 2:1-2 (Amplified Bible) SO YOU, my son, be strong (strengthened inwardly) in the grace (spiritual blessing) that is [to be found only] in Christ Jesus. 

 ²And the [instructions] which you have heard from me along with many witnesses, transmit and entrust [as a deposit] to reliable and faithful men who will be competent and qualified to teach others also.
 

Jesus trained His disciples knowing the spiritual battles that they would face.  John MacArthur writes that

" discipleship must be our top priority as well.  Jesus didn't commission the church to merely draw large crowds, but to make disciples as it progressed (Matt. 28:19-20).  Paul understood this in his injunction to Pastor Timothy (v.2 above).  God wants us to judge the success of our churches by the depth of their discipleship, not the numerical sizes of their congregations."

 

Are you being discipled?  Are you offering discipleship to someone?  If not, what is cluttering your life, standing in the way?  What can you do to change that?

 

Blessings,
Mike

mikevw@bellsouth.net
mikesvotd.blogspot.com

2 Timothy 2

Be Strong in Grace

 ¹ You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. ² And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also. ³ You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. ⁴ No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier. ⁵ And also if anyone competes in athletics, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. ⁶ The hardworking farmer must be first to partake of the crops. ⁷ Consider what I say, and may the Lord give you understanding in all things.
⁸ Remember that Jesus Christ, of the seed of David, was raised from the dead according to my gospel, ⁹ for which I suffer trouble as an evildoer, even to the point of chains; but the word of God is not chained. ¹⁰ Therefore I endure all things for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.

Verse of the Day 10/27

Through the Bible - Jeremiah 21-23, 2 Timothy 4

 

Good morning,

This past weekend I saw a video where a pastor described how as a college student, he and a couple of friends volunteered to practice with the cities SWAT team.  They came to the meeting at the local courthouse dressed in jeans and sweats.  Suddenly the SWAT team van pulled up and men started piling out with automatic weapons and full SWAT team garb.  Before the "exercises" started the three realized that they were not prepared to face this opposition, even in practice.

 

As I watched, there were several things that jumped out at me.  One of them was, how many of us send or have sent our kids off to college unprepared to face the spiritual enemy.

 

What does SWAT stand for?  I believe that it is "special weapons and tactics".  These are the "good guys", and we should be glad to have them on our side.  But they need these special weapons and tactics to deal with the enemy who will use every weapon, every threat known  to man to accomplish evil and terror.

 

For today's verse we'll go to Psalm 18 where David calls upon God, his strength, rock, fortress and deliverer.

Psalm 18:2-3 (Amplified Bible)  The Lord is my Rock, my Fortress, and my Deliverer; my God, my keen and firm Strength in Whom I will trust and take refuge, my Shield, and the Horn of my salvation, my High Tower. 

 ³I will call upon the Lord, Who is to be praised; so shall I be saved from my enemies.

For Him to be our Rock, Fortress, and Deliverer we need to know Him, learn about Him, and trust Him.  How we go about doing so will have an impact in how we face our battles, our enemies.

 

We are to put on the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18).

 

Yesterday's New Testament reading was in 2 Timothy 3 where Paul instructs Timothy and us as to how important it is to rely on God's Word,

 2 Timothy 3:16 (Amplified Bible)  Every Scripture is God-breathed (given by His inspiration) and profitable for instruction, for reproof and conviction of sin, for correction of error and discipline in obedience, [and] for training in righteousness (in holy living, in conformity to God's will in thought, purpose, and action),

 

Ephesians 6:17( NLT) Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

Blessings,
Mike

mikevw@bellsouth.net
mikesvotd.blogspot.com

Ephesians 6:10-18 (New Living Translation)

The Whole Armor of God

 ¹⁰ A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. ¹¹ Put on all of God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. ¹² For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.

 ¹³ Therefore, put on every piece of God's armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. ¹⁴ Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God's righteousness. ¹⁵ For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. ¹⁶ In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. ¹⁷ Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

 ¹⁸ Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.

Verse of the Day 10/26

Through the Bible - Jeremiah 18-20, 2 Timothy 3

 

Good morning,

Greed, as we considered yesterday, and faith appear to have at least one thing in common, that of taking risk.  With greed it is risking, sometimes all, for personal gain, gratification or glory (likely all three).  Faith takes risk to love, to reach out, to hope against hope for others.

 

John Piper in "Don't Waste Your Life" writes,  "The strength to risk losing face for the sake of Christ is the faith that God's love will lift up your face in the end and vindicate your cause. The strength to risk money for the cause of the Gospel is the faith that we have a treasure in the heavens that cannot fail. The strength to risk losing life in this world is faith in the promise that he who loses his life in this world will save it for the age to come."

 

This kind of risk, this kind of faith is not easily understood by the world.  But putting it into practice won't go unnoticed.

Hebrews 11:6 (New Living Translation)And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him.

 

I heard the song "That's What Faith Can Do" while driving in the car yesterday.  It went well with the thoughts of what John Piper wrote.

 

I've seen dreams that move the mountains 
Hope that doesn't ever end even when the sky is falling
I've seen miracles just happen, silent prayers get answered
Broken hearts become brand  new, that's what faith can do

 

It doesn't matter what you've heard
Impossible is not a word
It's just a reason for someone not to try
Everybody's scared to death
You may decide to take that step
Out on the water, but it'll be all right

 

Life is so much more than what your eyes are seeing

You will find your way if you keep believing

 

Overcome the odds when you don't have a chance
(That's what faith can do)
When the world says you can't, it will tell you that you can

 

Even if you fall sometimes
You will have the strength to rise

 

 Read the short passage below.  Notice how it is sandwiched between Enoch and Noah.  God took one out from his circumstances, the other went through the Flood.  Both lived by faith.  What risks did they take?

 

What can faith in God do for you or friend today?  Are you willing to risk it?

Blessings,
Mike

mikevw@bellsouth.net
mikesvotd.blogspot.com

Hebrews 11:5-7 (New King James Version)

⁵ By faith Enoch was taken away so that he did not see death, "and was not found, because God had taken him"; for before he was taken he had this testimony, that he pleased God. ⁶ But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.
⁷ By faith Noah, being divinely warned of things not yet seen, moved with godly fear, prepared an ark for the saving of his household, by which he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness which is according to faith.

Verse of the Day 10/25

Through the Bible - Jeremiah 16-17, 2 Timothy 2

 

Good monring,

One of the current movies that is out is "Wall Street 2".  In the original Wall Street, actor Michael Douglas made the following quote which became a catch phrase among many people, not just on Wall Street.  His character, Gordon Gekko said "greed is good" at one shareholders' meeting. "Greed is right. Greed works, greed clarifies and captures the evolutionary spirit."

 

This weekend's New Testament reading (above) was in 1 Timothy 6 where the apostle Paul had this to say as sound advice to Timothy, a young pastor then and to us today, the shareholders of faith.

1 Timothy 6:6 (New Living Translation) Yet true godliness with contentment is itself great wealth
 

For today's verse we'll skip down several verses in 1 Timothy 6.

 

 I Timothy 6:17 Teach those who are rich in this world not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which is so unreliable. Their trust should be in God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment. ¹⁸ Tell them to use their money to do good. They should be rich in good works and generous to those in need, always being ready to share with others.  NLT

 

On Friday we considered what God told Abram (Abraham) and when he was called to follow God.  Abram would indeed be blessed, but the important part of being blessed was to be a blessing to others.

 

What has been your experience?  Have you found that greed is good?  Many have followed that path and found themselves alone, broken and deceived.

 

Those who trust in God, give richly, and are ready to share will be blessed in many ways.  They will feel the contentment that service can bring while blessing others and bringing glory to God. 

 

Read the passage below, see what God has to say to you through it today.

Blessings,
Mike
mikevw@bellsouth.net
mikesvotd.blogspot.com

Paul's Final Instructions

1 Timothy 6:11-19 NLT  But you, Timothy, are a man of God; so run from all these evil things. Pursue righteousness and a godly life, along with faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness. ¹² Fight the good fight for the true faith. Hold tightly to the eternal life to which God has called you, which you have confessed so well before many witnesses. ¹³ And I charge you before God, who gives life to all, and before Christ Jesus, who gave a good testimony before Pontius Pilate, ¹⁴ that you obey this command without wavering. Then no one can find fault with you from now until our Lord Jesus Christ comes again. ¹⁵ For at just the right time Christ will be revealed from heaven by the blessed and only almighty God, the King of all kings and Lord of all lords. ¹⁶ He alone can never die, and he lives in light so brilliant that no human can approach him. No human eye has ever seen him, nor ever will. All honor and power to him forever! Amen.

 ¹⁷ Teach those who are rich in this world not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which is so unreliable. Their trust should be in God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment. ¹⁸ Tell them to use their money to do good. They should be rich in good works and generous to those in need, always being ready to share with others. ¹⁹ By doing this they will be storing up their treasure as a good foundation for the future so that they may experience true life.

Verse of the Day 10/22

Through the Bible - 12-15, 1 Timothy 5:1-6:2,

 

Good morning,

My wife Jean and I have started reading "Companions in Christ" as part of a small group.  The first scripture passage used for study and discussion is from Genesis 12 where Abraham is called to leave "Ur" and follow where God would lead him.

 

It may not jump out at you at first, but the verse points out the common theme of a "God follower" from way back in Genesis to today.  As God's children, His "called out" ones, we are blessed to be a blessing.

Genesis 12:2 (Amplified Bible) ²And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you [with abundant increase of favors] and make your name famous and distinguished, and you will be a blessing [dispensing good to others].

 

If we are blessed, have received His blessings, we should see this as our mission, to be a blessing as well, to the praise, honor and glory of God.  Age is no factor, Abram was called when he was 75 years old, called to leave the pinnacle of civilization at the time, to the place that "God would show him", in other words a place to be determined.  That takes faith.  Think about what happened through his faith, through God.

 

I know I've shared the hymn, "Make Me a Blessing" before in relation to this verse, I just can't help but share it again.

 

 Out in the highways and byways of life,
many are weary and sad;
are weary and sad
Carry the sunshine where darkness is rife
making the sorrowing glad.

Make me a blessing,
Make me a blessing,
Out of my life
out of my life
May Jesus shine;
Make me a blessing, O savior, I pray,
I pray Thee, my Savior,
Make me a blessing to someone today.

 Tell the sweet story of Christ and His love;
Tell of His pow'r to forgive;
His pow'r to forgive.
Others will trust Him if only you prove
true ev'ry moment you live.

Give as 'twas given to you in your need;
Love as the Master loved you;
Be to the helpless a helper indeed;
Unto your mission be true.

 

If you've been blessed, truly blessed by God, make it your aim today to be true to your mission, to be a blessing.

Blessings,
Mike

mikevw@bellsouth.net
mikesvotd.blogspot.com

Genesis 12 (New King James Version)

Genesis 12

Promises to Abram

 ¹ Now the LORD had said to Abram:

      "Get out of your country,
      From your family
      And from your father's house,
      To a land that I will show you.

 ² I will make you a great nation;
      I will bless you
      And make your name great;
      And you shall be a blessing.

 ³ I will bless those who bless you,
      And I will curse him who curses you;
      And in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed."
⁴ So Abram departed as the LORD had spoken to him, and Lot went with him. And Abram was seventy-five years old when he departed from Haran. ⁵ Then Abram took Sarai his wife and Lot his brother's son, and all their possessions that they had gathered, and the people whom they had acquired in Haran, and they departed to go to the land of Canaan. So they came to the land of Canaan

Verse of the Day 10/21

Through the Bible - Jeremiah 8-9, 1 Timothy 4

 

Good morning,

This morning I read a passage from Proverbs 18 in my devotions, I thought we'd go there for today's verse.

Proverbs 18:10-11 (Amplified Bible) The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the [consistently] righteous man [upright and in right standing with God] runs into it and is safe, high [above evil] and strong. 

 ¹¹The rich man's wealth is his strong city, and as a high protecting wall in his own imagination and conceit.
 

Reading verse 10 always brings me back to the choir at EEFC in Elgin Il.  At least once a year we would sing "Blessed Be the Name of the Lord", it was one of the most spirited songs that we sang.  Today, looking back and thinking of the members of that choir, many have faced or are facing severe trials since that time.  In every case that I can think of, in those times they have run to that strong tower.

 

R.C. Sproul writes, "to call upon the Lord, one commentator has noted, is to trust in Him alone for salvation, evidencing that faith through a commitment to His will and way, not our own.  Under the plentiful outpouring of the Spirit, we are enabled to love and serve God, and we are also given the power to do so.  None of us should think that we cannot serve the Lord even in difficult areas (and times), for if we know Him, we have His Spirit to empower us for service."

 

I'll close with another familiar verse from Psalm 46:

Psalm 46:10-11 (Amplified Bible) ¹⁰Let be and be still, and know (recognize and understand) that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations! I will be exalted in the earth! 

 ¹¹The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our Refuge (our High Tower and Stronghold). Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]!

Indeed, pause and think calmly of that.

Blessings,
Mike

mikevw@bellsouth.net
mikesvotd.blogspot.com

Proverbs 18:9-12 (New Living Translation)

 ⁹ A lazy person is as bad as
      someone who destroys things.

 ¹⁰ The name of the Lord is a strong fortress;
      the godly run to him and are safe.

 ¹¹ The rich think of their wealth as a strong defense;
      they imagine it to be a high wall of safety.

 ¹² Haughtiness goes before destruction;
      humility precedes honor.

Verse of the Day 10/20

Through the Bible - Jeremiah 6-7, 1 Timothy 3

 

Good morning,

Yesterday we considered what political commercials would look like, what our lives would look like if our aim was to lovingly express truth, speak truly, deal truly, and live truly.

In my devotions this morning I read the following verse from Philippians chapter 4, it will serve as our verse for today.

Philippians 4:8 (Amplified Bible)  For the rest, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is worthy of reverence and is honorable and seemly, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely and lovable, whatever is kind and winsome and gracious, if there is any virtue and excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think on and weigh and take account of these things [fix your minds on them].
 

The passage is another favorite of mine because of Jeff, someone who exemplifies having the peace that passes understanding (v.7). 

In the political scene and in many of our lives, anxiety has a way of robbing us of peace, taking our minds away from what is pure, true, honorable, of virtue, and worthy of praise.

 

Bible commentator Marcus Maxwell writes that this "peace is much more than inner calm.  For Paul, writing as a Jew, it carries the overtones of the Hebrew word shalom, which means not only tranquility and the absence of conflict, but also healing, wholeness and well-being.  The peace that God brings is a whole person peace, a part of the re-making of human nature, indeed of all creation, which is the goal of salvation (Romans 8:19-23).  Those who trust God are freed from anxiety and begin to find a personal wholeness which is the first installment of God's new creation."

 

We are challenged not to get caught up in the stresses of the world around us but to dwell on the things mentioned in these verses.  But it is not enough to dwell on them, it involves more than thinking.  We are to practice what we've learned, received, heard and seen.  Let the "mind of Christ" govern your life, words, and works.

Philippians 4:9 (Amplified Bible) Practice what you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and model your way of living on it, and the God of peace (of untroubled, undisturbed well-being) will be with you.

Blessings,
Mike

mikevw@bellsouth.net
mikesvotd.blogspot.com

Philippians 4:1-9 (New King James Version)

Philippians 4

 ¹ Therefore, my beloved and longed-for brethren, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, beloved.

   
² I implore Euodia and I implore Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. ³ And I urge you also, true companion, help these women who labored with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the Book of Life.
⁴ Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!
⁵ Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand.
⁶ Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; ⁷ and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.    
⁸ Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. ⁹ The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you.

Verse of the Day 10/19

Through the Bible - Jeremiah 4-5, 1 Timothy 2

 

Good morning,

The mid-term elections are two weeks away and for me, for many reasons, they can't come soon enough.  I am tired of hearing and seeing so many of the political ads that "add" nothing to the debate.  The mud slinging, barbs, innuendos, and digging up dirt from the past, how far back will they go, to second grade?

 

Another thing to consider for both sides of the debate is what is being taught to future generations?  Do we want to teach our kids that "anything goes" as long as you can win an election?  Does that apply to running for 8th grade class president?

 

With all that as a back drop, I read Ephesians 4 over the weekend. Listen to how Paul describes some in the church who were teaching false doctrines and the impact on the congregations.  The people were:" tossed [like ships] to and fro between chance gusts of teaching and wavering with every changing wind of doctrine, [the prey of] the cunning and cleverness of unscrupulous men, [gamblers engaged] in every shifting form of trickery in inventing errors to mislead. Eph. 4:14 Amplified Bible

Look at some of the adjectives used to describe the attitudes and actions of the person whose goal is to mislead - cunning, unscrupulous, shifting, inventing, tricking.  We see and hear a lot of that all around us today.

For today's verse we'll go down to verse 15.

Ephesians 4:15 (Amplified Bible)  Rather, let our lives lovingly express truth [in all things, speaking truly, dealing truly, living truly]. Enfolded in love, let us grow up in every way and in all things into Him Who is the Head, [even] Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One).

Think of these principles - lovingly express truth, speaking truly, dealing truly, and living truly.  Putting these into practice will cause us to grow, grow up in every way and in all things, in all areas of our lives. 

 

That's what I'd like to say to the politicians, grow up!  Do the right thing! What would the political landscape look like if these principles of speaking truly, dealing truly, living truly were put into practice?  What would our churches, our families look like?

 

The goal of our speech should be  " for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ,"  Ephesians 4:12 NKJV.  Let our lives, our speech, equip and edify today.

Blessings,
Mike
mikevw@bellsouth.net
mikesvotd.blogspot.com

Ephesians 4:11-16 (New King James Version)

¹¹ And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, ¹² for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, ¹³ till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; ¹⁴ that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, ¹⁵ but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ— ¹⁶ from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.

Verse of the Day - weekend 10/16

Through the Bible - Isaiah 62-66, 2 Thessalonians 2-3,

 

Good morning,

Have you ever considered humility to be an attribute of God?  Jesus exemplified it.

 

The men's small group that I'm in has been discussing the book "The Same Kind of Different as Me" which details the unlikely relationship and ultimately the friendship and bond that develops between a millionaire art dealer (Ron) and a destitute homeless person(Denver).

 

Ron, the rich man, humbled himself to serve in a soup kitchen (actually, he was dragged into it, perhaps coerced by his wife).  But in time, his heart softened and he ended up investing himself in Denver, the homeless person's life.  You could think of it as humility² 

 

For today's verse we'll go to Philippians chapter 2 where Paul describes the humility of Christ.  He humbled Himself first of all by becoming a human being.  Then humbled Himself in becoming a servant, and finally humbling Himself in the highest degree all the way to His death on the cross.

 

Philippians 2:7-8 (Amplified Bible) But stripped Himself [of all privileges and rightful dignity], so as to assume the guise of a servant (slave), in that He became like men and was born a human being. ⁸And after He had appeared in human form, He abased and humbled Himself [still further] and carried His obedience to the extreme of death, even the death of the cross!

 

Serving our Lord with our lives requires some degree of humility.  There is a degree of humility in volunteering for just about any type of service for Christ.  Going to the next level, as Ron did, requires additional humility.  It is getting involved personally with the people that you are serving.  It involves getting to know the people, their hurts, hopes, and joys.  It involves investing in them with your time and your heart in these areas.  It involves growing with them as you learn more of Jesus and His great love.  As we learn in books such as "The Same Kind of Different as Me" and as exemplified in the Bible, it is a two-way street.

 

Extreme Home Makeover is a popular TV show on Sunday nights.  A group of people come in and tear down old dilapidated homes of needy people.  They invest their time and efforts into creating a new home for them, opportunities for a better live.  They make an investment in their lives.  Theirs is an investment that takes a short period of time with long lasting results.

 

Are we willing to invest to "the extreme", beyond a few days weeks or months?

 

What can you do in ministries that you're involved in to take them to the next level?  Will you be willing to do so?

 

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

The Humbled and Exalted Christ

   
^{Philippians 2:5} Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, ⁶ who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, ⁷ but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. ⁸ And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. ⁹ Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, ¹⁰ that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, ¹¹ and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Verse of the Day 10/15

Through the Bible - Isaiah 59-61, 2 Thessalonians 1

 

Good morning,

I recently donated blood for the first time through the American Red Cross.  The other day I received a letter of thanks from them and a card indicating my blood type.  The letter and card informed meThat my blood type is O positive, making me a universal donor.  This blood type is in the highest demand because it is used so often in emergency situations where there may not be time to test the patient's blood type.  It told me that 1 pint of blood could save two or three lives.  It made me feel good about donating and I plan on doing it again.

 

Jesus, is the ultimate blood donor, His blood was truly universal.  It was through His shed blood, death, burial and resurrection that those who believe, trust in and cling to Him may have eternal life.  His blood has the power to save for eternity.  No need for another transfusion.

 

When I donated, I sat in a comfortable, reclining chair and afterwards was treated to a soft drink, cake, and cookies.  The whole process (being the first time) took about an hour and a half.

Christ shed His blood in beatings and suffering on the cross, while being struck, spit on, and despised with curses.

 

For today's verse we'll go to Colossians 1 where Paul describes what He has done for us.

Colossians 1:19-21 (New International Version)  For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, ²⁰and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross.

What does this mean to you, how does it impact your life, your future, not only here and now but for eternity?  Has it, will it change how you live your life?

 

Consider the words of The Wonderful Cross from Chris Tomlin.

When I survey the wondrous cross
On which the Prince of Glory died
My richest gain I count but loss
And pour contempt on all my pride

See from his head, his hands, his feet
Sorrow and love flow mingled down
Did ever such love and sorrow meet
Or thorns compose so rich a crown

O the wonderful cross, O the wonderful cross
Bids me come and die and find that I may truly live
O the wonderful cross, O the wonderful cross
All who gather here by grace draw near and bless
Your name

Were the whole realm of nature mine
That were an offering far too small
Love so amazing, so divine
Demands my soul, my life, my all

If you were dying and in need of a transfusion you wouldn't turn it down would you.   Read the passage below from The Message which tells us "You don't walk away from a gift like that! " 

 

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

In Christ,
Mike
mikevw@bellsouth.net
http://mikesvotd.blogspot.com

Colossians 1:19-21 (The Message)

 ^18-20He was supreme in the beginning and—leading the resurrection parade—he is supreme in the end. From beginning to end he's there, towering far above everything, everyone. So spacious is he, so roomy, that everything of God finds its proper place in him without crowding. Not only that, but all the broken and dislocated pieces of the universe—people and things, animals and atoms—get properly fixed and fit together in vibrant harmonies, all because of his death, his blood that poured down from the cross.

 ^21-23You yourselves are a case study of what he does. At one time you all had your backs turned to God, thinking rebellious thoughts of him, giving him trouble every chance you got. But now, by giving himself completely at the Cross, actually dying for you, Christ brought you over to God's side and put your lives together, whole and holy in his presence. You don't walk away from a gift like that! You stay grounded and steady in that bond of trust, constantly tuned in to the Message, careful not to be distracted or diverted. There is no other Message—just this one. Every creature under heaven gets this same Message. I, Paul, am a messenger of this Message.

Verse of the Day 10/14

Through the Bible - Isaiah 56-58, 1 Thessalonians 5

 

Good morning,

If you have followed the news at all in the last couple of days, I'm sure you would have heard and seen broadcasts about the rescue of the 33 Chilean minors who had been trapped half a mile underground for more than two months.  It was interesting to hear how help, in the form of equipment and technology, came from thousands of miles away from other countries including the United States.

 

For today's verse we'll go to the Old Testament book of Deuteronomy which speaks of the Lord's rescue of us.

Deuteronomy 33:26-27 (Amplified Bible)  There is none like God, O Jeshurun [Israel], Who rides through the heavens to your help and in His majestic glory through the skies.

²⁷The eternal God is your refuge and dwelling place, and underneath are the everlasting arms; He drove the enemy before you and thrust them out, saying, Destroy!

For the first couple of weeks the minors were uncertain of their rescue.  It took time for word to reach them that help was on the way.  Their spirits were lifted knowing that they would soon be lifted, delivered from the depths.

 

Sometimes, we can be buried in the depths of despair from illness, injury or loss.  What  a comfort it can be to know that our Lord, the creator of the heavens and the earth will come to deliver us.  Waiting for Him is leaning on Him,"

 

Leaning on the Everlasting Arms.

What a fellowship, what a joy divine, Leaning on the everlasting arms; What a blessedness, what a peace is mine, Leaning on the everlasting arms. Refrain: Leaning, leaning, safe and secure from all alarms; Leaning, leaning, leaning on the everlasting arms. What have I to dread, what have I to fear, Leaning on the everlasting arms? I have blessed peace with my Lord so near, Leaning on the everlasting arms.

"I have no strength of my own--the world, the flesh, and the Devil, are arrayed against me--so I commit myself into the care and keeping of my Lord Jesus. And what is the ground of my confidence? How do I know that He is able to keep that which I have committed unto Him? I know it because He is God Almighty--the King of kings and Lord of lords!"  - Arthur Pink

 

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

 ^{Deuteronomy 33:26} "There is no one like the God of Jeshurun,
      Who rides the heavens to help you,
      And in His excellency on the clouds.

 ²⁷ The eternal God is your refuge,
      And underneath are the everlasting arms;
      He will thrust out the enemy from before you,
      And will say, 'Destroy!'

 ²⁸ Then Israel shall dwell in safety,
      The fountain of Jacob alone,
      In a land of grain and new wine;
      His heavens shall also drop dew.

 ²⁹ Happy are you, O Israel!
      Who is like you, a people saved by the LORD,
      The shield of your help
      And the sword of your majesty!
      Your enemies shall submit to you,
      And you shall tread down their high places."  NKJV

Verse of the Day 10/13

Through the Bible - Isaiah 54-55, 1 Thessalonians 4

 

Good morning,

We've recently been considering what it means to "grow in grace and the knowledge of God" (2 Peter 3:18) and yesterday, who God really is.

Last night and this morning I read a couple of things that bring these thoughts together.

 

First, we'll go to Isaiah 57.  The real, the true God is the "high and lofty" One who humbled Himself sending His Son to redeem us.

Isaiah 57:15 (Amplified Bible)  For thus says the high and lofty One--He Who inhabits eternity, Whose name is Holy: I dwell in the high and holy place, but with him also who is of a thoroughly penitent and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble and to revive the heart of the thoroughly penitent [bruised with sorrow for sin].

Think about that, the eternal God, the God Most High, the high and lofty One, resides in the hearts of the humbled, not the proud.  Are you humbled by the thought?

 

I've been reading D.G. Barnhouse's commentary on Romans.  Last night I read the following:  "And to those of you who have believed that Jesus Christ is the eternal God, made flesh to save us, and have thrown yourself on His grace as manifested at the cross, I beseech you to walk in the light of this Word which He has left for us.  Begin by admitting all that He has said about the depth of your own heart, and ask Him to dredge to those depths in order that He may fill you with Himself and give to you the ever-fresh graces of the presence of the Holy Spirit to illuminate and to guide you.  For it is in the measure that you yield to the life of God through the cross of Christ and in the Holy Spirit that you shall grow in grace and the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ."

 

Living in the world, it is easy for our hearts to become silted with the debris of the cares and desires of this world.  There may not be a lot of room for God and His Spirit to dwell.  When was the last time that you asked Him to "dredge" the depths of your heart that you may be filled with the life giving water of His Spirit?

 

May we humble ourselves and do so may our silted hearts be revived.

 

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

Healing for the Backslider

   Isaiah 57:14  And one shall say,

      " Heap it up! Heap it up!
      Prepare the way,
      Take the stumbling block out of the way of My people."
       ¹⁵ For thus says the High and Lofty One
      Who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy:

      " I dwell in the high and holy place,
      With him who has a contrite and humble spirit,
      To revive the spirit of the humble,
      And to revive the heart of the contrite ones.
       ¹⁶ For I will not contend forever,
      Nor will I always be angry;
      For the spirit would fail before Me,
      And the souls which I have made.
       ¹⁷ For the iniquity of his covetousness
      I was angry and struck him;
      I hid and was angry,
      And he went on backsliding in the way of his heart.
       ¹⁸ I have seen his ways, and will heal him;
      I will also lead him,
      And restore comforts to him
      And to his mourners.
       ¹⁹ " I create the fruit of the lips:
      Peace, peace to him who is far off and to him who is near,"

Verse of the Day 10/12

Through the Bible - Isaiah 51-53, 1 Thessalonians 3:6-13 

 

Good morning,

Have you ever stopped to think what it means to you to have a "god" as opposed to having a relationship with God, the True God, the Everlasting God?

I read the following post from Pastor Ray Ortlund and thought I'd share it with you.  How would you answer the questions?

 

"What is it to have a god?  What is God?  Answer:  A god is that to which we look for all good and in which we find refuge in every time of need.  To have a god is nothing else than to trust and believe him with our whole heart.  As I have often said, the trust and faith of the heart alone make both God and an idol.  If your faith and trust are right, then your God is the true God.  On the other hand, if your trust is false and wrong, then you have not the true God.  For these two belong together, faith and God.  That to which your heart clings and entrusts itself is, I say, really your God."  - Martin  Luther from the Large Cathecism

 

For today's verse we'll go to Isaiah where the prophet speaks of God, the LORD, the King of Isreal, the Redeemer, the LORD of hosts, the I AM.

Isaiah 44:6 (New King James Version)" Thus says the LORD, the King of Israel,
      And his Redeemer, the LORD of hosts: 
  ' I am the First and I am the Last;
      Besides Me there is no God. "

Pastor Ortlund writes, "It follows that one can worship a false god, with destructive impact, without intending to or even realizing it.  Converting to Christ introduces us not only to him but also to ourselves and the false trusts/gods that lurk in our self-evident thoughts and natural feelings, especially our religious feelings."

 

Where does you faith, hope and trust reside?  Where do your affections lie, to what or whom do you cling to? 

 

Blessings,
Mike

mikevw@bellsouth.net
mikesvotd.blogspot.com

Isaiah 44:6  God, King of Israel,
   your Redeemer, God-of-the-Angel-Armies, says:
"I'm first, I'm last, and everything in between.
   I'm the only God there is.
Who compares with me?
   Speak up. See if you measure up.
From the beginning, who else has always announced what's coming?
   So what is coming next? Anybody want to venture a try?
Don't be afraid, and don't worry:
   Haven't I always kept you informed, told you what was going on?
You're my eyewitnesses:
   Have you ever come across a God, a real God, other than me?
   There's no Rock like me that I know of."

From; The Message

Verse of the Day 10/11

Through the Bible - Isaiah 49-50, 1 Thessalonians 2:13-3:5

 

Good morning,

Over the weekend, the New Testament reading (above) moved into the book of 1 Thessalonians.  For today's verse we'll go to the opening greeting from Paul to the church. 

Jeremiah had grieved at how the nation had changed its "gods" to serve idols, which is vanity.  Paul encourages the people here to serve the Lord for something that will last.  Their legacy lives on through Paul's words.

1 Thessalonians 1:2-3 (Amplified Bible)  We are ever giving thanks to God for all of you, continually mentioning [you when engaged] in our prayers,

³Recalling unceasingly before our God and Father your work energized by faith and service motivated by love and unwavering hope in [the return of] our Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah). [I Thess. 1:10.]

I don't know how often you think about what kind of legacy you'll leave, but whether you think about it or not, you will be leaving one.  Your legacy is being created, formed, developed in the hear and now.  It is not a done deal, if you are still alive there is time to change it.  These verses serve as a reminder the kind of things that should characterize our lives if we want to leave a legacy for Jesus Christ.

 

Do these words describe your life and service to God?  Think how your life might better be shown to be "energized by faith", "motivated by love", while your hope remains unwavering for His coming.  Read some of the words to Nicole Nordeman's song "I Want to Leave a Legacy" before you head out to start the week.

 

I Want to Leave a Legacy

I want to leave a legacy
How will they remember me?
Did I choose to love? Did I point to You enough
To make a mark on things?
I want to leave an offering
A child of mercy and grace who
blessed your name unapologetically
And leave that kind of legacy

Not well traveled, not well read, not well-to-do or well bred
Just want to hear instead, "Well Done" good and faithful one...

 

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

Their Good Example

   
² We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers, ³ remembering without ceasing your work of faith, labor of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ in the sight of our God and Father, ⁴ knowing, beloved brethren, your election by God. ⁵ For our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Spirit and in much assurance, as you know what kind of men we were among you for your sake.
⁶ And you became followers of us and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Spirit, ⁷ so that you became examples to all in Macedonia and Achaia who believe. ⁸ For from you the word of the Lord has sounded forth, not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place. Your faith toward God has gone out, so that we do not need to say anything. ⁹ For they themselves declare concerning us what manner of entry we had to you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God,

Verse of the Day - weekend 10/9

Through the Bible - Isaiah 43-48, 1 Thessalonians 1-2

 

Good morning,,

We recently considered the prophet Jeremiah's question in chapter 2, "has a nation ever changed its gods"?  We are in need of a spiritual revival in this country.  We must not turn away from and abandon our God as many European nations appear to have done or have been in the process of doing.  If we are to avoid this hearts must turn.  The turning of a nation begins with individuals.

I read the following verses from Joel chapter 2 recently.

Joel 2:12-13 (Amplified Bible)  Therefore also now, says the Lord, turn and keep on coming to Me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning [until every hindrance is removed and the broken fellowship is restored]. 

 ¹³Rend your hearts and not your garments and return to the Lord, your God, for He is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in loving-kindness; and He revokes His sentence of evil [when His conditions are met].

Notice the call, it is to "turn and keep on coming to me".   I was reminded of my GPS.  When I make a wrong turn the voice from the GPS instructs me to make a U turn then.....   It is not just enough to turn, we must keep heading in the right direction.  In our spiritual lives it is to keep coming, to keep following after Jesus.

 

Another important point of the verses is that we are to turn with our hearts, to rend our hearts.  Tearing ones clothes in ancient times was a symbol of grief but what good was it if it didn't result in a change of heart leading to a change of action, of the course of a life.  This change of heart, this turning and following Christ will lead to a transformation, it is the message of the gospel.

 

"The gospel is the best news we could ever hear. The gospel is about Jesus Christ and his power to transform our lives and relationships, communities, and ultimately, the nations. Through this gospel, we are freely given a new identity — an identity not based on race, social class, gender, a theological system, or a system of rules and regulations. Rather it is a new and perfect identity based solely on faith in Jesus — an identity that defines every aspect of our lives. We are now forgiven, righteous, adopted, accepted, free, and heirs to everything that belongs to Christ. So even our sin, weakness, and failures do not define who we are. Because of this good news, we no longer have to hide from our sin and pretend that we have it all together, for God knows and loves us as we are, not as we pretend to be."  - Neil H. Williams from "Gospel Transformation"

As we prepare for worship, may we take a look at our hearts.  Does our worship match our walk?

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
Joel 2:12-18

 

A Call to Repentance
12 "Now, therefore," says the Lord,
"Turn to Me with all your heart,
With fasting, with weeping, and with mourning."
13 So rend your heart, and not your garments;
Return to the Lord your God,
For He is gracious and merciful,
Slow to anger, and of great kindness;
And He relents from doing harm.
14 Who knows if He will turn and relent,
And leave a blessing behind Him —
A grain offering and a drink offering
For the Lord your God?

 

15 Blow the trumpet in Zion,
 Consecrate a fast,
Call a sacred assembly;
16 Gather the people,
Sanctify the congregation,
Assemble the elders,
Gather the children and nursing babes;
Let the bridegroom go out from his chamber,
And the bride from her dressing room.
17 Let the priests, who minister to the Lord,
Weep between the porch and the altar;
Let them say,"Spare Your people, O Lord,
And do not give Your heritage to reproach,
That the nations should rule over them.
Why should they say among the peoples,
'Where is their God?'"   NKJV

Verse of the Day 10/8

Through the Bible - Isaiah 41-42, Colossians 3:18-4:18

 

Good morning,

The mid-term elections are less than a month away and the season of political mud slinging is in full swing.  If you watch TV you'll notice that many if not most of the adds in the coming month will be political adds.  The intent of many of them is to smear, belittle and even mock the opponent with half truths in order to win the favor of the voters?  Doesn't make much sense to me.

 

Christian's and churches, sad to say are not above this kind of rhetoric.  How many churches have split over differences in worship music, attire, or even the color of carpet for the sanctuary?

 

Paul tells his readers that they, we, are to put away and rid ourselves of these things (completely).

Col 3:8 But now you must rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. 9 Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices 10 and have put on the new self,   NIV

For today's verse we'll go a little further on in Colossians chapter 3 :

 

Col 3:12 Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; 13 bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do.  14 But above all these things put on love,   NKJV

What difference would there be in the political arena if politicians would follow this advice, replacing the mudslinging and barbs with kindness, humility, and the like?  What difference would it make in our churches in our homes if we did more of this?

 

Think of what it means to you to "clothe yourselves" to "put on "Christ" as you head out today.   May we do so and follow Paul's advice today forgiving and forbearing (putting up with) one another and our faults.  We can make a difference in our "world", or at least our little corner of it.  Who knows what God might do through 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
Col 3:8-18

 

8 But now you yourselves are to put off all these: anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy language out of your mouth. 9 Do not lie to one another, since you have put off the old man with his deeds, 10 and have put on the new man who is renewed in knowledge according to the image of Him who created him, 11 where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcised nor uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave nor free, but Christ is all and in all.

 

Character of the New Man

 

12 Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; 13 bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do.  14 But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection. 15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful. 16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. 17 And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.   NKJV

Verse of the Day 10/7

Through the Bible - Isaiah 38-40, Colossians 2:6-3:17

 

Good morning,

In my personal devotions I've spent some time over the past couple of days in Hebrews 11, a place that I repeatedly turn for encouragement.  In reading this chapter often referred to as the "Hall of Faith" we can come to a better understanding of what true faith is, and what true faith does for a person.

 

For today's verse we'll go to verse 6 which shows us the necessity of faith in our relationship with God.

Hebrews 11:6 (Amplified Bible)  But without faith it is impossible to please and be satisfactory to Him. For whoever would come near to God must [necessarily] believe that God exists and that He is the rewarder of those who earnestly and diligently seek Him [out].

You have probably noticed by now that I've been using the Amplified Bible for much of my studying this year.  I would encourage you to read this chapter, and possibly consider reading this translation.  It is available online through Bible Gateway and other sources.  Time after time verses in this chapter start out with "by faith".  The Amplified Bible helped me to see that we are prompted by faith, urged on, controlled and sustained by faith,  aroused by faith, actuated by faith, motivated by faith and are helped by faith.  In addition to this faith gives us the eyes to see these things and to feel His presence even when the "cords of death surround us".

 

Considering these things should help us to realize that faith is real, it has substance, is tangible, and is something to be held onto, in fact, through the power of Christ and the Holy Spirit, it keeps hold of us.

 

I'd encourage you to spend some time in Hebrews 11.  Then read the first few verses below from The Message.  May God's Word speak to you today.

Hebrews 12 -  Discipline in a Long-Distance Race

 ^1-3Do you see what this means—all these pioneers who blazed the way, all these veterans cheering us on? It means we'd better get on with it. Strip down, start running—and never quit! No extra spiritual fat, no parasitic sins. Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we're in. Study how he did it. Because he never lost sight of where he was headed—that exhilarating finish in and with God—he could put up with anything along the way: Cross, shame, whatever. And now he's there, in the place of honor, right alongside God. When you find yourselves flagging in your faith, go over that story again, item by item, that long litany of hostility he plowed through. That will shoot adrenaline into your souls!  

 

Look to, turn to "Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith" - Heb. 12:2 NKJV

 

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

Faith at the Dawn of History

   
⁴ By faith Abel offered to God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, through which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts; and through it he being dead still speaks.
⁵ By faith Enoch was taken away so that he did not see death, "and was not found, because God had taken him"; for before he was taken he had this testimony, that he pleased God. ⁶ But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.
⁷ By faith Noah, being divinely warned of things not yet seen, moved with godly fear, prepared an ark for the saving of his household, by which he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness which is according to faith.

Faithful Abraham

   
⁸ By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to the place which he would receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going. ⁹ By faith he dwelt in the land of promise as in a foreign country, dwelling in tents with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise; ¹⁰ for he waited for the city which has foundations, whose builder and maker is God.
¹¹ By faith Sarah herself also received strength to conceive seed, and she bore a child when she was past the age, because she judged Him faithful who had promised. ¹² Therefore from one man, and him as good as dead, were born as many as the stars of the sky in multitude—innumerable as the sand which is by the seashore.

Verse of the Day 10/6

Through the Bible - Isaiah 35-37, Colossians 1 - 2:5

 

Good morning,

We've recently considered what it means to have a "childlike faith".  It is trusting, hoping, believing that someone cares for you, will help you, and will see you through, whether parents at an early age, or hopefully in Christ as we take hold of the gospel when we are old enough to understand.

 

One of the first ways that faith in God is exemplified is in prayers.  A child's prayers at dinner or at bedtime can be some of the simplest yet most sincere ever said.

For today's verse we'll go to Psalm 116

Psalm 116:1-2 (Amplified Bible) I LOVE the Lord, because He has heard [and now hears] my voice and my supplications. 

 ²Because He has inclined His ear to me, therefore will I call upon Him as long as I live.

Of the characters in the Bible, for me, David is a testimony of this.  His faith at an early age was in God and He delivered him and guided him.  As he grew, David still depended and trusted in God through some of life's darkest hours.  Anointed to be king, he served under King Saul and was hunted down like a criminal.  He faced many ups and downs physically and spiritually but he always returned to or was drawn back to God.  Many of his prayers recorded in the Psalms start off with David in distress and end with David praising God.  The circumstances may not have changed, but his heart and perception had, through faith and trust in God.

 

What struck me as I read Psalm 116:1 was the "and now hears" that was put in parentheses.  It is a reminder that He heard us even from childhood and still hears.  He is still listening.

 

Read and contemplate the words to the Steven Curtis Chapman song "Still Listening".  Do you long to return to such a place in your life?  Put aside the things that distract you and draw you away from your Heavenly Father.  Seek Him again.  It may begin with a simple prayer, prayed with a childlike faith.

 

The years can take us far away
From the simple child like faith
But I am longing to return
To the place where I first learned
That God is great, and God is good
So, I will speak the words

God, our Father, once again
I bow my head to pray
You are my Father and my friend, and You hear every word I say
A prayer for forgiveness, A desperate cry for help
Or praise flowing from a thankful heart
Like each time before, I come knowing You're still listening

 

May we call on Him as long as we live.

 

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 116 New King James Version

Thanksgiving for Deliverance from Death

 ¹ I love the LORD, because He has heard
         My voice and my supplications.
 ² Because He has inclined His ear to me,
         Therefore I will call upon Him as long as I live.
         
 ³ The pains of death surrounded me,
         And the pangs of Sheol laid hold of me;
         I found trouble and sorrow.
 ⁴ Then I called upon the name of the LORD:
         "O LORD, I implore You, deliver my soul!"
         
 ⁵ Gracious is the LORD, and righteous;
         Yes, our God is merciful.
 ⁶ The LORD preserves the simple;
         I was brought low, and He saved me.
 ⁷ Return to your rest, O my soul,
         For the LORD has dealt bountifully with you.
         
 ⁸ For You have delivered my soul from death,
         My eyes from tears,
         And my feet from falling.
 ⁹ I will walk before the LORD
         In the land of the living.

Verse of the Day 10/5

Through the Bible - Isaiah 33-34, Philippians 4

 

Good morning,

I read the following in today's "Today in the Word" devotional, "some astute observers of the human condition have determined that spirituality is simply a coping mechanism, not the reality of a relationship with the Saviour."  They don't believe or understand what true faith is.

 

For today's verse we'll go to Hebrews 11.  I started off the day reading this chapter 11 years ago today, not knowing that the day would end up setting off the the toughest, most heart heart wrenching period of our family's lives.

Hebrews 11:1 (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].

or from the NKJV

Hebrews 11:1 (New King James Version)  Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

For the "true believer" through the ages, this faith that is ridiculed by some and misunderstood by most, is substance, evidence and is real and tangible.  It is an anchor for our soul.

 

"The only kind of faith that matters in the end is saving faith —.... In other words, . . . I am not interested in faith in general — the faith of other religions, or the faith of science in the validity of its first principles, or the faith of children in their parents, or any other kind of faith that is not in Christ. I am only interested in the faith that obtains eternal life. The faith faith that saves (Acts 16:31; Rom. 10:9). The faith that justifies (Rom. 3:28; Gal. 2:16) and sanctifies (Acts 26:18; 1 Pet. 4:11)."  John Piper

 

The faith that saves, justifies and sanctifies is also the faith that heals, restores, renews and gives us hope.

 

^{Hebrews 6:19"}We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain, ²⁰where Jesus, who went before us, has entered on our behalf. He has become a high priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek." NIV

 

Do you need this faith, this hope?  If a crisis looms before you, you don't have to face it on your own, alone.  Seek advice from godly counsel from others, and  take it to the Lord, leave it before His 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

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.  NKJV

Verse of the Day 10/4

Through the Bible - Isaiah 31-32 , Philippians 3

 

Good morning,

Most, if not all of us, can remember a time when we said to our kids or perhaps our parents said to us "you should know better than to...." or we didn't raise you to ......

 

Jeremiah, the "weeping prophet" felt this way about the people we witnessed to and wrote about.  In his instance he was appalled by the way the people of God had turned away from God to go after, to chase gods that were no gods at all.

For today's verse we'll go to Jeremiah 2 where the prophet writes:

 

Jer 2:11 Has a nation ever changed its gods?
(Yet they are not gods at all.)
But my people have exchanged their  Glory
for worthless idols. .....
13 "My people have committed two sins:
They have forsaken me,
the spring of living water,
and have dug their own cisterns,
broken cisterns that cannot hold water.   NIV

Barnes Notes commentary mentions that what Jeremiah was talking about was "not a spring or natural fountain, but a tank or reservoir dug in the ground (see Jer 6:7), and chiefly intended for storing living waters, i.e., those of springs and rivulets. The cistern was used for storing up rain-water only, and therefore the quantity it contained was limited. "

 

Society isn't much different today.  Many have some knowledge of God's Word, of the Christian faith, but the "spiritual person" today often picks and mixes bits and pieces of various religions and philosophies to form a kind of "spiritual soup" that appeals to their taste and their outlook or worldview.  But if forms no definable foundation for their faith.

 

Someone that has rejected the gospel of Christ  have one thing to be accountable for, but the person who claims to be a Christian but heads off  to create his own "soup" has done two evils, they have abandoned  the true God and gone to serve idols or false gods that will never satisfy their souls.

John 4:13 Jesus answered, "Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, 14 but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life."
NIV

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
Jer 2:9-14

 

9 "Therefore I will yet bring charges against you," says the Lord,
"And against your children's children I will bring charges.
10 For pass beyond the coasts of Cyprus and see,
Send to Kedar and consider diligently,
And see if there has been such a thing.
11 Has a nation changed its gods,
Which are not gods?
But My people have changed their Glory
For what does not profit.
12 Be astonished, O heavens, at this,
And be horribly afraid;
Be very desolate," says the Lord.
13 'For My people have committed two evils:
They have forsaken Me, the fountain of living waters,
And hewn themselves cisterns — broken cisterns that can hold no water.   NKJV