Verse of the Day 10/31

Titus 3:2  They must not slander anyone and must avoid quarreling. Instead, they should be gentle and show true humility to everyone.  New Living Translation (NLT)

 

The Bible reading plan that I follow recently brought me through Titus.  Today's verse was fitting for our thoughts over the past few days as well as the "political season" that we are in.  In Titus, Paul is giving instructions on the qualifications for elders, for overseers of the church.  As we look at the various candidates for political office, they are seeking to become overseers for us in our government.

 

As you hear and watch political adds over the coming week hold them up to these words, "they must not slander anyone", "avoid quarreling", "be gentle" and show "true humility" to everyone.  It is sad when you look at the caustic political environment.  But before we try to hold the politicians to these standards we must first ask ourselves, how am I doing in these areas.  How are we

 

As he closes out the chapter, Paul charges his readers, including us with these words:

 

Titus 3:14  And let our own [people really] learn to apply themselves to good deeds (to honest labor and honorable employment), so that they may be able to meet necessary demands whenever the occasion may require and not be living idle and uncultivated and unfruitful lives.  Amplified Bible (AMP)

 

Let's not be living "idle, uncultivated and unfruitful lives, but get in the game, be engaged, be productive by doing good.

 

In Christ,
Mike

 

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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

 

Titus 3:1-5  New Living Translation (NLT)  Do What Is Good

 

3:1 They should be obedient, always ready to do what is good. 2 They must not slander anyone and must avoid quarreling. Instead, they should be gentle and show true humility to everyone.

 

3 Once we, too, were foolish and disobedient. We were misled and became slaves to many lusts and pleasures. Our lives were full of evil and envy, and we hated each other.

 

4 But—"When God our Savior revealed his kindness and love, 5 he saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life through the Holy Spirit.

Verse of the Day 10/30

Verse of the Day 10/30

 

Matthew 11:28-29   "Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace.   The Message (MSG)

 

Yesterday we considered our salvation, it is here in the person of Jesus Christ.  We've also been considering what it means, what it looks like to have our hearts and minds "engaged".  Today's passage is a familiar one where Jesus calls those who are weary and heavy laden and offers them rest in Him.

 

In his message "The Dangerous Life" last Sunday, Pastor Bob quoted the passage from The Message as I've posted it above.  Take a look at how it brings out how Jesus calls us.  He calls our "come to me", get away with me, walk with me, work with me,watch how I do it, and learn from me."  What a succinct way to describe what it truly means to follow Jesus.  It is what having our hearts and minds "engaged" is truly about.

 

If you've been "burned out on religion" chances are that you've been doing it on your own, in your own way, your own power and according to your own will.  Yeah, that would describe me.  May we be willing to live what some would call "the dangerous life" of watching how He does it and find rest in Him along the way.

 

Blessings,
Mike
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Matthew 11:28-30  New International Version (NIV)

²⁸ "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. ²⁹ Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. ³⁰ For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."

Verse of the Day 10/29

      Isaiah 12:2-3 "Behold, God is my salvation;
    I will trust, and will not be afraid;
for the Lord God is my strength and my song,
    and he has become my salvation."
3 With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation.  ESV

 

I read these verses earlier in the weekend then in our worship service on Sunday the first song that we sang was "Salvation is Here".  We've considered how are hearts and minds should be engaged as we worship and as we head out into the work week.  The songs, verses and messages from the weekend should propel us into the week.

 

We can hear the sound from past generations and we have a lot to celebrate ourselves and to show to others just what it is that we have found, no matter the situation.  Cause we know God saved the day, His love has made a way, and His Word never fails to say "salvation is here" in the person of Jesus Christ.

 

Salvation is Here

 

Hear the sound of the generations
Making loud our freedom song
All in all that the world would know Your name
It's gonna be alright

 

'Cause I know my God saved the day
And I know His word never fails
And I know my God made a way for me
Salvation is here

 

 

In Christ,
Mike

 

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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

Isaiah 12
New International Version (NIV) Songs of Praise

 

12 In that day you will say:

 

"I will praise you, Lord.
    Although you were angry with me,
your anger has turned away
    and you have comforted me.
2 Surely God is my salvation;
    I will trust and not be afraid.
The Lord, the Lord himself, is my strength and my defense;
    he has become my salvation."
3 With joy you will draw water
    from the wells of salvation.
4 In that day you will say:

 

"Give praise to the Lord, proclaim his name;
    make known among the nations what he has done,
    and proclaim that his name is exalted.
5 Sing to the Lord, for he has done glorious things;
    let this be known to all the world.

Verse of the Day 10/28

Psalm 119:35-36  Lead me in the path of your commandments,
    for I delight in it.
36 Incline my heart to your testimonies,
    and not to selfish gain!  English Standard Version (ESV)

 

In yesterday's passage in Hebrews 10 we considered how our hearts and minds should be "engaged" as we go to worship, or when we fellowship with other believers to study and learn from His Word.

 

In today's passage from Psalm 119, the author, possibly David, puts his heart on display as he seeks God's guidance and reveals his delight in God's Word working in his life.  His heart is engaged to hear of His testimonies, to make those things his focus and not the desire for "selfish gain", greed, the desire for more "stuff" in this world.

 

It should be a lesson for us as we go to worship today and to take with us into the workweek.  Read the passage, 8 verses below.  The psalmist calls for God to teach him, give him understanding, to lead him along the path, to "incline" or turn his heart towards God, to turn his eyes from "worthless things, and to confirm His promises for his life.  May we have the same attitude today and engage our hearts as we head into the coming week.

 

In Christ,
Mike

 

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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 119:33-40   English Standard Version (ESV)

 

33 Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes;
    and I will keep it to the end.
34 Give me understanding, that I may keep your law
    and observe it with my whole heart.
35 Lead me in the path of your commandments,
    for I delight in it.
36 Incline my heart to your testimonies,
    and not to selfish gain!
37 Turn my eyes from looking at worthless things;
    and give me life in your ways.
38 Confirm to your servant your promise,
    that you may be feared.
39 Turn away the reproach that I dread,
    for your rules are good.
40 Behold, I long for your precepts;
    in your righteousness give me life!

Verse of the Day 10/27

Hebrews 10:24-25  Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. 25 And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.  New Living Translation (NLT)

Today's verse comes from one of the passages that our church looked at this week in the "10 Words" study.  It is an important passage in the life, for the life, of the Christian both individually and as a congregation.

 

It is so easy to go through life just "going through the motions".  This can be in regards to school, work, church or even our family lives.  We should never be this way, especially as Christians.  The words from today's verses that jumped out at me were "let us think of ways" in particular was to motivate one another to love and good works.  It speaks of having our hearts and minds engaged, in gear as it were, not just idling or going through the motions.

 

John Calvin says, "There will be no excuse of the indolence (laziness) of those who both conceal the gifts of God, and waste their time in idleness."

 

As we head to church this weekend, that should be our challenge to have our hearts and minds engaged as we meet and greet one another.  Have our hearts and minds engaged to hear what God has to say to us through Pastor Bob and desire to put into practice things that we learn as we go home, to work, or to our various meetings or ministries.  Use your gifts.  This is to be an ongoing process and not be be neglected.  It should grow in importance as we see "the day approaching."

 

In Christ,
Mike

 

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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 10:22-25New Living Translation (NLT)

22 let us go right into the presence of God with sincere hearts fully trusting him. For our guilty consciences have been sprinkled with Christ's blood to make us clean, and our bodies have been washed with pure water.

 

23 Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise. 24 Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. 25 And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.

Verse of the Day 10/25

Philippians 4:7   And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.    English Standard Version (ESV)

 Today is our son Jeff's 30th birthday.  I chose today's verse in honor of him, and in honor of Him, our Savior.  I don't know that Jeff would come up with a "life verse" on his own, but today's verse would be a good one for him.

 

Most of you know Jeff and that he suffered a TBI in a car accident not long before his 17th birthday.  It left him disabled but it has never kept him down or dampened, or quenched his spirit.  Christ has been guarding his heart all along and Jeff has this "peace that passes understanding" and has told us "hope is my favorite thing to have."

 

I know I've shared it before, but one experience that drives this home happened a few years ago.  As I went in to get Jeff going in the morning, I muttered something under my breath.  Jeff heard it and said "peace".  I asked what???t, Jeff said "my peace to you".  I asked him how he has such peace in  he said "I have the peace that passes understanding".  He learned that verse back in AWANA Clubs and in a song that he learned in Sunday School about having the "joy, joy,joy, joy down in his heart".  He has this joy, this peace that is beyond our understanding down in his heart today.  It is on display to those who know and love him.  It is a testimony of the peace, hope, and joy that Christ has put in his heart.

 

Jeff is not concerned about money, riches or fame.  He is content with what he has and is happy to share it with others.  He has the love of Christ, his family and his friends.  He's looking forward to celebrating it today.

 

Read the Amplified translation below, may that peace be yours today.

Blessings,
Mike & Jeff
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Philippians 4:6-7  Amplified Bible (AMP)

⁶ Do not fret or have any anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition (^[a]definite requests), with thanksgiving, continue to make your wants known to God.

⁷ And God's peace [shall be yours, that ^[b]tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and being content with its earthly lot of whatever sort that is, that peace] which transcends all understanding shall ^[c]garrison and mount guard over your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

Verse of the Day 10/24

 1 Timothy 6:11 But you, man of God, run from these things,
and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith,
love, endurance, and gentleness.   (HCSB)

 

 The preceding verse is probably more familiar to us, it reads "the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil" and goes on to tell us that the desire for more and more if it will bring harm to us and may cause us to wander from the faith.

 

Our pursuits, our convictions will define who we are.  The world runs, chases after money and the things that can be acquired through it.  It leads to greed.  The news is full of the results of this pursuit, all kinds of crime from robbery to ponzy schemes, and extortion.

 

Paul is speaking to Timothy and to any of us who would consider ourselves to be men and women "of God", telling him, telling us that we should be headed in the opposite direction, not simply walking away, but running from it to pursue things of eternal value, a right standing before God, showing godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness in our lives.

 

What is it that we are chasing, pursuing?  What are our "convictions"?

 

Blessings,
Mike
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1 Timothy 6:8-11   Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)

⁸ But if we have food and clothing,
we will be content with these.

⁹ But those who want to be rich fall into temptation, a trap, and many foolish and harmful desires, which plunge people into ruin and destruction. ¹⁰ For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, and by craving it, some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pains.

Fight the Good Fight

¹¹ But you, man of God, run from these things,
and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith,
love, endurance, and gentleness.

Verse of the Day 10/23

Psalm 19:7-8  The law of the Lord is perfect,
    reviving the soul;
the testimony of the Lord is sure,
    making wise the simple;
⁸ the precepts of the Lord are right,
    rejoicing the heart;
the commandment of the Lord is pure,
    enlightening the eyes;

Last week I quoted the words to the song "My God's Not Dead'.  I was surprised when we sang the same song in church on Sunday.  The last part of the song speaks, sings of revival.

 

Let heaven roar, and fire fall
Come shake the ground
with the sound of revival

 

Revival begins in the heart of one that is seeking God, has turned, changed course and instead of going after the things of the world, now, "follows hard" after God.

At its root, revival comes from the Word of God, acting in one's heart through the power of the Spirit working in us.  These verses in psalm 19 are a testimony to the revival that it going on in David's heart, it is a revival that "enlightens they eyes", opens our eyes to see things differently, to perceive things that we would have easily missed were it not for His Word, His Spirit working in us.  His Word gives wisdom in how to live our lives, giving us direction, that light to our path.  All these things cause to rejoice.  We may not all be song writers, but we can can sing along the words of others that have put their feelings to music in praise to our God.

 

The psalmist desires these things more than gold.  May it be so in our hearts today, may it lead to a revival in our own hearts that will spread to others.
 

Blessings,
Mike
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Psalm 19:7-10

New Living Translation (NLT)

⁷ The instructions of the Lord are perfect,
    reviving the soul.
The decrees of the Lord are trustworthy,
    making wise the simple.
⁸ The commandments of the Lord are right,
    bringing joy to the heart.
The commands of the Lord are clear,
    giving insight for living.
⁹ Reverence for the Lord is pure,
    lasting forever.
The laws of the Lord are true;
    each one is fair.
¹⁰ They are more desirable than gold,
    even the finest gold.
They are sweeter than honey,
    even honey dripping from the comb.

Verse of the Day 10/21

Mark 6:31  He said to them, "Come away by yourselves to a remote place and rest for a while." For many people were coming and going, and they did not even have time to eat.  Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)

 

 

Have you ever been in that position, you didn't even have time to stop and eat?  We constantly seem to be either coming or going, never sitting still, never resting.  We can be that way in relation to work, to recreational activities or in ministry.  We all need time to retreat and rest for a while, to take in some food and let it digest.  This applies to us physically and spiritually.

 

We've considered in Acts chapter 2 how the people of the early church were devoted to each other, lived in communion with each other and with God.  At the same time, we do need our personal time, time for our personal relationship with God.  Time to eat and drink in His Word, to digest it, to strengthen us and enable us to live each day as J. R. Miller relates :

 

 "In communion with Him--we shall receive strength and blessing to enable us to live each day more beautifully, more victoriously, more radiantly, more lovingly. We shall rob ourselves therefore, of divine help--if we do not make room in our busiest days, for quiet retreats from noise and strife--to be alone with Christ, where we may sit at His feet to hear His words; or lie on His bosom to absorb His spirit--for the refreshing and transforming of our lives."

Its going to be a beautiful fall day today.  Why not find some time, perhaps in a remote place, and spend some time in personal communion with our great God.

 

In Christ,
Mike

 

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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

Mark 6:30-32  Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)

 

30 The apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to Him all that they had done and taught. 31 He said to them, "Come away by yourselves to a remote place and rest for a while." For many people were coming and going, and they did not even have time to eat. 32 So they went away in the boat by themselves to a remote place,

Verse of the Day 10/20

Acts 2:42-43  And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread, and to the prayers.

 

43 Then fear came over everyone, and many wonders and signs were being performed through the apostles.  Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)

 

I like watching football and seeing the teamwork.  I liked playing football and miss the action, but perhaps, I miss the huddles more.  Even when just playing in the neighborhood it was fun to draw plays on your hand and go out and execute those plays and score a touchdown.

 

You've probably heard of church being referred to as a "Holy huddle" with negative connotations, being restricted or closed off to outsiders.  That is unfortunate because the huddle is necessary.  It is where we get our plays for the week, with the point of the huddle being to go out and execute what we've learned and live it out, which will be to "score" for Christ.

 

You might say that the game is not in the huddle, but without the huddle the game would be lost.  Think of that in regards to today's verses.  Huddling shows devotion, commitment.  If a player doesn't join the huddle, the team will suffer.  That person may not know the snap count, where to run our who to block.  Christianity, like football, is a team "sport".  Our position is not that of a spectator, but to be a member of the team, one that joins the huddle and is in the game.

 

Many churches want to emulate the Acts chapter 2 church.  The way to measure their success is not in an extravagant service, or huddle, but in going and serving after the huddle, performing wonders out in the community.

 

In Christ,
Mike

 

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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

Acts 2:42-47 Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
42 And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread, and to the prayers.

 

43 Then fear came over everyone, and many wonders and signs were being performed through the apostles. 44 Now all the believers were together and held all things in common. 45 They sold their possessions and property and distributed the proceeds to all, as anyone had a need. 46 Every day they devoted themselves to meeting together in the temple complex, and broke bread from house to house. They ate their food with a joyful and humble attitude, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And every day the Lord added to them those who were being saved.

Verse of the Day 10/19

Verse of the Day 10/19

 

Hebrews 11:8  By faith Abraham, when he was called, obeyed and went out to a place he was going to receive as an inheritance. He went out, not knowing where he was going.    Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)

 

Our church is going through a 5 week study by the title "10 Words".  It is a vision and mission statement for the church.  This week's word is "explore" which made me think that we're all "explorers" in seeking God, in worshipping Him.

The first people that came to mind when I thought of explorers were Lewis and Clark, setting out to map the continent, to explore, discover, record and share with others what they found out about this great land.

 

Perhaps the first true explorer in the Hebrew faith was Abram later to be known as Abraham.  God called, he listened and obeyed.  Left everything to follow God, not knowing where he was going but confident of the One who would lead Him.  His whole life as recorded in Genesis was that of an explorer, seldom settling down for any great length of time, always looking forward and upward which is the call of faith.

 

So it should be with our worship, our life of worship.  It takes commitment, to set our hearts on pilgrimage (Ps. 84:5), no turning back.  At the same time it is a journey of fellowship, we're on this journey with others, we're not alone the experiences are to be shared, the ups and downs the joys and the pain will lead to where God is sending us.

 

This world is not my home I'm just passing through
my treasures are laid up somewhere beyond the blue
the angels beckon me from Heaven's open door
and I can't feel at home in this world anymore

O Lord you know I have no friend like you
if Heaven's not my home then Lord what will I do?
the angels beckon me from Heaven's open door
and I can't feel at home in this world anymore

 

In Christ,
Mike

 

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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 11:8-9  The Message (MSG)
8-10 By an act of faith, Abraham said yes to God's call to travel to an unknown place that would become his home. When he left he had no idea where he was going. By an act of faith he lived in the country promised him, lived as a stranger camping in tents. Isaac and Jacob did the same, living under the same promise. Abraham did it by keeping his eye on an unseen city with real, eternal foundations—the City designed and built by God.

Verse of the Day 10/18

Job 19:25-26 But I know my living Redeemer,
and He will stand on the dust at last.
26 Even after my skin has been destroyed,
yet I will see God in my flesh.   Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)

In my Old Testament Bible reading I am currently going through the book of Job which goes well with our considering  the "Hall of Faith" in Hebrews 11.  Jobs trials are well documented as is his faith under those trials and in today's verses he shows the same qualities of looking forward that we see in so many of the people described in Hebrews 11.  He can look forward, even in and through the trials, the storms of life, because he believes and trusts intimately and ultimately in his "living Redeemer".

I like the HCSB translation here "He will stand on the dust at last".  You've probably heard the term "when the dust settles", it speaks of the end of a storm, the end of a battle or skirmish, and the victor remains standing.  Christ is the ultimate victor, He lives, when the dust settles at the end of time He will remain standing and will gather His followers to be with Him.

May we be able to display the character, the faith of Job who in the midst of his trials showed expressed this kind of faith:

"Yet He knows the way I have taken;
when He has tested me, I will emerge as pure gold.
11 My feet have followed in His tracks;
I have kept to His way and not turned aside.
12 I have not departed from the commands of His lips;
I have treasured the words of His mouth
more than my daily food. "  Job 23:10-12  Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)

In Christ,

Mike

 

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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

Job 19:23-27  Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
23 I wish that my words were written down,
that they were recorded on a scroll
24 or were inscribed in stone forever
by an iron stylus and lead!
25 But I know my living Redeemer,
and He will stand on the dust at last.
26 Even after my skin has been destroyed,
yet I will see God in my flesh.
27 I will see Him myself;
my eyes will look at Him, and not as a stranger.
My heart longs within me.

Verse of the Day 10/17

Hebrews 11:3  By faith we understand that the worlds [during the successive ages] were framed (fashioned, put in order, and equipped for their intended purpose) by the word of God, so that what we see was not made out of things which are visible.  Amplified Bible (AMP)

 

I've shared before that Romans 8:28 has become my life verse "all things work together for good for those who love God and are called according to His purpose".  I would also say that Hebrews 11 has been instrumental in "framing" my faith.  It was a chapter, that in God's providence, I read on the morning of October 6, 1999 which would prove to be the most challenging and life changing day in my life and that of our immediate family.

 

Many times in the following months as my faith was tested and tried, I returned to this chapter to be encouraged, challenged, and have my faith restored and grow.  The word framed is an important one in today's verse, it is at the core, it is what the flooring, drywall, and ceiling are tied to, no nailed to.  So it is with our faith.  The characters referenced in this great "Hall of Faith" reveal so much about faith, faith that comes out of what is not visible but never the less is or becomes solid, becomes bedrock.

 

The word framed also takes me back to Genesis 1:1 and to what I've heard at least one pastor reference as the 10 most important words in the Bible - "in the beginning God created the heavens and the earth". Gen. 1:1.  I'm not trying to get into a theological debate here, but I think that you can see how these words frame our Christian worldview, point to God as sovereign as Creator, life and hope giver and all these and everything formed out of what was previously invisible.  Without them nothing else would be.

 

Spend some time over the next couple of days in Hebrews, Genesis or another book that helps ground you or contains the framework of your faith.  Praise Him for it and tell someone else why it is so.

 

In Christ,
Mike

 

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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 11:1-3   New King James Version (NKJV) By Faith We Understand

 

11 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 10/16

Hebrews 10:39  But we are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed, but of those who have faith and preserve their souls.  English Standard Version (ESV)

I enjoy watching football.  Many have said that the game is won and lost in the trenches, at the line of scrimmage.  If the offensive line can't open up holes for the running back or stand up to the pass rush of the defensive line to protect the quarterback, they will have no chance of winning. 

 

The Christian who lives by faith will stand up to what is thrown at them, by faith.  They won't shrink back in full retreat and run from the situation or seek relief in temporary things such as drugs and alcohol.  They will persevere and in doing so will, as this verse indicates, preserve their souls.

 

When the Bible was written there were no chapters and verses.  This verse marks a good dividing line, ending chapter 10 talking about taking the stand of faith, in faith.  Chapter 11 will show what God accomplishes through those who will persevere, who will stand in faith.

 

Is patient endurance (v.36 below) what you need in your situation today?  Be faithful, trust in God, He will see you through, He will open up holes in the enemies defensive line or protect you in the pocket to complete the pass to victory.

 

A Mighty Fortress is Our God

 

Did we in our own strength confide,
 our striving would be losing,
 were not the right man on our side,
 the man of God's own choosing.
 Dost ask who that may be? 
 Christ Jesus, it is he;
 Lord Sabaoth, his name,
 from age to age the same,
 and he must win the battle.

 

In Christ,
Mike

 

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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 10:36-39  New Living Translation (NLT)
36 Patient endurance is what you need now, so that you will continue to do God's will. Then you will receive all that he has promised.

 

37 "For in just a little while,
    the Coming One will come and not delay.
38 And my righteous ones will live by faith.
    But I will take no pleasure in anyone who turns away."
39 But we are not like those who turn away from God to their own destruction. We are the faithful ones, whose souls will be saved.

Verse of the Day 10/15

Luke 4:32  And they were astonished at His teaching, for His word was with authority.   New King James Version (NKJV)

 

I read this verse yesterday and the word that jumped out at me was "astonished", they were astonished at His teaching, His Word.  When was the last time that you can remember being "astonished" at His Word?  Hopefully, it is something that happens regularly even after years of study.  We can be astonished, amazed at the power of it, the wisdom, and the majesty of it in our lives, speaking to us the exact words we need to hear for the moment.

 

Reading further in Luke chapters 4 and 5 we see several examples of the power of His Word.  He calls and casts out demons, by His words.  He rebuked and silenced demons.  He gives the command for the disciples to launch out into the deep and cast their nets after they had fished all night catching nothing.  He cleanses a leper, forgives sins, calls sinners to repentance, and calls people to follow Him.

 

Elsewhere, He calls His disciples to go into the world and preach the gospel.  Through His power and authority, these words, these commands are still accomplishing His purposes today.

 

My prayer for you today is that you may be astonished by the power of His Word in your life and respond as the people did in today's passage saying "what a word this is!"

 

In Christ,
Mike

 

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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

Luke 4:31-37 New King James Version (NKJV)  Jesus Casts Out an Unclean Spirit

 

31 Then He went down to Capernaum, a city of Galilee, and was teaching them on the Sabbaths. 32 And they were astonished at His teaching, for His word was with authority. 33 Now in the synagogue there was a man who had a spirit of an unclean demon. And he cried out with a loud voice, 34 saying, "Let us alone! What have we to do with You, Jesus of Nazareth? Did You come to destroy us? I know who You are—the Holy One of God!"

 

35 But Jesus rebuked him, saying, "Be quiet, and come out of him!" And when the demon had thrown him in their midst, it came out of him and did not hurt him. 36 Then they were all amazed and spoke among themselves, saying, "What a word this is! For with authority and power He commands the unclean spirits, and they come out." 37 And the report about Him went out into every place in the surrounding region.

Verse of the Day 10/14

 Psalm 28:7  The Lord is my strength and my shield;
    my heart trusts in him, and he helps me.
My heart leaps for joy,
    and with my song I praise him.   New International Version (NIV)

 

 

As I read this verse in my devotions yesterday I thought how well it lined up with the thoughts from the week.  Walking in the light of His Word, shedding light on our path should encourage us that He is and has been our strength.  We can trust Him knowing that He has and will help us in all our needs day by day.

 

The heading of the psalm, written by David is "My Strength".  He felt God's presence in His life, it was inside of him and made him write the psalms, many of which were written and are still used in song.

 

For some reason the Newsboys song "God's Not Dead" came to my mind.  Read the following words to the song, could you picture David expressing such emotion?

 

Let hope arise and make the darkness hide
My faith is dead I need a resurrection somehow
I'm lost in your freedom
And this world I'll overcome

 

My God's not dead
He's surely alive
He's livin on the inside
Roaring like a lion

 

Let heaven roar, and fire fall
Come shake the ground
with the sound of revival

 

Is God living on the inside of you?  If so, sing a song or a psalm of praise to Him today.

 

In Christ,
Mike

 

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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 28:6-9   Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)

6 May the Lord be praised,
for He has heard the sound of my pleading.
7 The Lord is my strength and my shield;
my heart trusts in Him, and I am helped.
Therefore my heart rejoices,
and I praise Him with my song.
8 The Lord is the strength of His people;
He is a stronghold of salvation for His anointed.
9 Save Your people, bless Your possession,
shepherd them, and carry them forever.

Verse of the Day 10/13

Jeremiah 1:7 The Lord replied, "Don't say, 'I'm too young,' for you must go wherever I send you and say whatever I tell you.  New Living Translation (NLT)

 

Have you ever asked someone to do something or perhaps asked you to do something and you responded as Jeremiah did to God "I'm too young" to do something?

 

In a recent blog, Pastor Ray Ortlund wrote, "Every one of us has a counter-argument to the call of God.  "No, Lord.  I am only a _________."      ..... You don't define yourself.  God does.  And he never has a trivial thought.  He's not capable of it."    Think of that, you don't define yourself, God does.  When he asks us to do something, He knows very well who we are and what we're capable of.  We may be tempted to say "I'm too old, not a Bible scholar, or I'm a single parent, or I travel too much or any number of excuses, but God doesn't want to hear it.

 

This was a pivotal point in Jeremiah's life, it set him on the right path, following God, letting His light shine before Him, ministering to God's people and serving under several kings, several administrations but not backing down from his calling no matter the consequences.

 

For the past several years I've been blessed to be able to work with a group of kids in our church.  I started with these guys when they were 7th graders and my friend Jim has been working with them a year longer.  Jim, Ryan and I have seen them grow and take some steps in their faith.  May we be able to encourage them that they are not "too young", and if they here or feel God's call, His promptings may they respond "I'll go wherever you send me".

 

In Christ,
Mike

 

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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 1:4-10  New Living Translation (NLT)
Jeremiah's Call and First Visions

 

4 The Lord gave me this message:

 

5 "I knew you before I formed you in your mother's womb.
    Before you were born I set you apart
    and appointed you as my prophet to the nations."
6 "O Sovereign Lord," I said, "I can't speak for you! I'm too young!"

 

7 The Lord replied, "Don't say, 'I'm too young,' for you must go wherever I send you and say whatever I tell you. 8 And don't be afraid of the people, for I will be with you and will protect you. I, the Lord, have spoken!" 9 Then the Lord reached out and touched my mouth and said,

 

"Look, I have put my words in your mouth!
10 Today I appoint you to stand up
    against nations and kingdoms.
Some you must uproot and tear down,
    destroy and overthrow.
Others you must build up
    and plant."

Verse of the Day 10/12

Psalm 27:11 Teach me how to live, O Lord.
    Lead me along the right path,
    for my enemies are waiting for me.  New Living Translation (NLT)

 

Yesterday we considered how God's Word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path.  Today's verse continues with that theme.  It reminds us that we are talking about how we live.  Not just for a period of time, a stroll through the woods or the streets, but along our path in life.  It reminds us to call out to God, to seek Him in prayer and His Word for guidance, for there are enemies, oppressors and obstacles that are and will be in our path.  They may be in the form of people or our own desires or storms in life.

 

The verse and these thoughts brought to mind an old song that I remember singing in Sunday School and church as a child.  Its been years since I've sang it or thought of it.  But it is a good reminder as we walk along the heavenly trail.

 

I Just Keep Trusting My Lord

 

I just keep trusting my Lord as I walk a long
I just keep trusting my Lord and He gives a song
Though the storm clouds darken the sky o'er the heav'nly trail
I just keep trusting my Lord, He will never fail
He's a faithful friend, such a faithful friend
I can count on Him to the very end
Though the storm clouds darken the sky o'er the heav'nly trail
I just keep trusting my Lord, He will never fail

 

I just keep trusting my Lord on the narrow way
I just keep trusting my Lord as He leads each day
Though the road is weary at times and I'm sad and blue
I just keep trusting my Lord, He will se me through
He's a faithful guide, such a faithful guide
He is always there walking by my side
Though the road is weary at times and I'm sad and blue
I just keep trusting my Lord, He will se me through

 

In Christ,
Mike

 

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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 27:7-12  New International Version 1984 (NIV1984)

7 Hear my voice when I call, O Lord;
    be merciful to me and answer me.
8 My heart says of you, "Seek his face!"
    Your face, Lord, I will seek.
9 Do not hide your face from me,
    do not turn your servant away in anger;
    you have been my helper.
Do not reject me or forsake me,
    O God my Savior.
10 Though my father and mother forsake me,
    the Lord will receive me.
11 Teach me your way, O Lord;
    lead me in a straight path
    because of my oppressors.
12 Do not turn me over to the desire of my foes,
    for false witnesses rise up against me,
    breathing out violence.

Verse of the Day 10/11

Psalm 119:105   Your word is a lamp for my feet,
    a light on my path.

 I ended yesterday's devotional by quoting Psalm 119:11 about having God's Word stored or hidden in our hearts.  Today's verse from Psalm 119 shed some light upon what His Word does for us.

 

I was out of town last night and the only available outlet to charge my phone in the hotel room was in the bathroom.  I usually use my phone as a light, keep it at the side of the bed to be able to pick it up and see in the dark, to light the path to the bathroom.  When the alarm went off on my phone I got up in the dark and stumbled over my briefcase which was on the floor at the foot of the bed.  I stumbled because the light wasn't with me.

 

So it is in our lives.  We are accustomed to walking on smooth sidewalks and streets where we can walk fairly easily and confidently without stumbling.  Now, think about walking or perhaps running in the woods in the dark.  Without a light you'd easily trip and stumble over a root or rock in the path.  God's Word serves as a lamp for our feet shining down guiding us in the here and now, for the next step that is to be taken.  It also serves as a light for the path ahead, helping us to see and identify objects in our path that would cause us to stumble and fall, giving us the opportunity to change our course and avoid the pain of stubbing our toe (as I did this morning) or having a complete wipe out.

 

Let His Word be a lamp to our feet and a light for our path as we carry it with us in our hearts and minds every day.

 

Blessings,
Mike
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Psalm 119:105-112  New International Version (NIV)

¹⁰⁵ Your word is a lamp for my feet,
    a light on my path.
¹⁰⁶ I have taken an oath and confirmed it,
    that I will follow your righteous laws.
¹⁰⁷ I have suffered much;
    preserve my life, Lord, according to your word.
¹⁰⁸ Accept, Lord, the willing praise of my mouth,
    and teach me your laws.
¹⁰⁹ Though I constantly take my life in my hands,
    I will not forget your law.
¹¹⁰ The wicked have set a snare for me,
    but I have not strayed from your precepts.
¹¹¹ Your statutes are my heritage forever;
    they are the joy of my heart.
¹¹² My heart is set on keeping your decrees
    to the very end

Verse of the Day 10/10

Matthew 7:25 Though the rain comes in torrents and the floodwaters rise and the winds beat against that house, it won't collapse because it is built on bedrock.  (NLT)

 

Reading this verse, I was reminded of a customer that I've called on in Evansville Indiana.  In their lobby they have pictures of a flood from around the turn of the century over 100 years ago.  The pictures serve as a reminder that floods do come.  You've heard of "100 year" floods or perhaps 500 year floods.  They don't happen every year and may even skip generations, but time has proven, they will come.  Cities invest a lot of time and effort in order to prepare for these floods.  They build dikes, levies and high walls along the river to withstand the surging waters that will come.

 

Yesterday's verses spoke of listening to God's teaching and following it, being obedient to it.  It is the way that we prepare for the 100 year events in our lives.  Trusting and applying His Word in our hearts and lives will help prepare us (better) for the storms that will come, and they will come.

 

Can you say that you have God's Word "stored in your heart"?  It will come in handy on a rainy day, more importantly to prepare you for and help you through a 100 year flood.

 

Psalm 119:11  I have stored up your word in my heart,

In Christ,
Mike

 

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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

Matthew 7:24-27  Contemporary English Version (CEV)
Two Builders

 

24 Anyone who hears and obeys these teachings of mine is like a wise person who built a house on solid rock. 25 Rain poured down, rivers flooded, and winds beat against that house. But it did not fall, because it was built on solid rock.

 

26 Anyone who hears my teachings and doesn't obey them is like a foolish person who built a house on sand. 27 The rain poured down, the rivers flooded, and the winds blew and beat against that house. Finally, it fell with a crash.

Verse of the Day 10/9

Verse of the Day 10/9

 

Matthew 7:24  "Anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock."  New Living Translation (NLT)

 

Today's verse starts off the passage about "building your house on the rock" which is probably one of the earliest teachings we may remember from childhood.  How many of us quickly remember the song from childhood, "The wise man built his house upon the rock, his house upon the rock.....  It is the first verse in this week's 10 Words study that is going on at St. Mark's Church.

 

In our group study yesterday there was a discussion about Christians, a loosely used term nowadays that could describe a wide range of people, some with little evidence or concern about Jesus or God's Word in their lives, and others, true Christ followers who listen and follow Christ and His teachings.

 

The word "everyday" can be used to describe common, ordinary or generic things whether describing a baseball or a football fan.  Then there fanatics, those who follow their team closely, following statistics and everything to do with their favorite team.  There are common "everyday" Christians and there are also those that some might call fanatics, who listen intently, desiring to and actually following Christ.  I would refer to these as "every day" Christians.  The "every day" Christian is one who listens to God through His teaching and follows, not just once in a while or once a week but every day.  He is building his spiritual house on the Rock.  Laying a foundation, a firm foundation that will help him to weather the storms of life.

 

The question for each of us is am I an "everyday" Christian or an "every day" Christian,  a Christ follower?  It is nothing new, the concept goes back to the Old Testament as well.

 

Deuteronomy 13:4 It is the Lord your God you must follow, and him you must revere. Keep his commands and obey him; serve him and hold fast to him.(NIV)

 

In Christ,
Mike

 

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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

Matthew 7:24-27  New Living Translation (NLT)
Building on a Solid Foundation

 

24 "Anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock. 25 Though the rain comes in torrents and the floodwaters rise and the winds beat against that house, it won't collapse because it is built on bedrock. 26 But anyone who hears my teaching and doesn't obey it is foolish, like a person who builds a house on sand. 27 When the rains and floods come and the winds beat against that house, it will collapse with a mighty crash."

Verse of the Day 10/8

Isaiah 63:7   I will make known the Lord's faithful love
and the Lord's praiseworthy acts,
because of all the Lord has done for us—
even the many good things
He has done for the house of Israel
and has done for them based on His compassion
and the abundance of His faithful love.   (HCSB)

 

Before moving on to another chain of thought, I thought I'd spend one more day on "making Jesus famous".  As I read this verse I thought of what a friend said this morning, he said " I thank the Lord every, before I even put my shoes on, for saving me, for lifting me out of the pit."  Do you remember to do the same every day for what He has done for you? 

 

While we normally sing this song around Thanksgiving, there is no reason why we can't sing it in our hearts or out loud every day of the year.  Think of what He has done for you personally, your family, your church and your country, for what He has done for all of us, yes give thanks and make Him known.

 

GIVE THANKS
WITH A GRATEFUL HEART
GIVE THANKS
TO THE HOLY ONE
GIVE THANKS
FOR HE'S GIVEN
JESUS CHRIST, HIS SON

 

AND NOW LET THE WEAK SAY
I AM STRONG
LET THE POOR SAY
I AM RICH
BECAUSE OF WHAT
THE LORD HAS DONE
FOR US

 

In Christ,
Mike

 

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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

Isaiah 63:7-9
Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
Remembrance of Grace

 

7 I will make known the Lord's faithful love
and the Lord's praiseworthy acts,
because of all the Lord has done for us—
even the many good things
He has done for the house of Israel
and has done for them based on His compassion
and the abundance of His faithful love.
8 He said, "They are indeed My people,
children who will not be disloyal,"
and He became their Savior.
9 In all their suffering, He suffered,
and the Angel of His Presence saved them.
He redeemed them
because of His love and compassion;
He lifted them up and carried them
all the days of the past.

Verse of the Day 10/7

Revelation 22:20   He who testifies about these things says, "Yes, I am coming quickly."

Amen! Come, Lord Jesus!   (HCSB)

 

This morning in church we sang the song "Come By Here" by Shawn Groves.  I have the CD, so I had heard it several times before.  But seeing the words on the screen, a few of the lines drew my attention more than just hearing them being sung, especially "come an lift our lame, that we may limp no more, that we may want no more.

 

Come, come and meet us here

Come and touch our tears

That we may weep no more

Come, come and meet our pain

Come and lift our lame

That we may limp no more

Come that we may want no more

 

Come, we have nothing else God

And having You we want for nothing

This past year my dad went home to be with the Lord.  He was born with a birth defect that caused him to limp all of his life.  My son Jeff became disabled after a car accident.  He cannot walk in his own power, and even with support each step requires thought, effort and dependence on someone else to help him.  Both situations could leave someone feeling that life is not fair and to dwell on those things.  Neither my dad or Jeff ever have.  They have been two people that have displayed a positive attitude in spite of life's circumstances.  The reason they have been able to do so is their faith in God, their "blessed assurance" of restoration, resurrection, and new life.

 

For those of us who remain here to battle with our pains and struggles we can ask Jesus to meet us hear to calm our fears and touch our tears.  We can also look forward to a day when we will be made whole, we won't be lame or walk with a limp or any other physical ailment that we live with.

 

The Bible tells us that no one knows when He will return to call us home, but He does say that He is coming quickly.  Are you ready in your heart to say, come, Lord Jesus?

 

In Christ,
Mike

 

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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

Revelation 22:19-21 Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
19 And if anyone takes away from the words of this prophetic book, God will take away his share of the tree of life and the holy city, written in this book.

 

20 He who testifies about these things says, "Yes, I am coming quickly."

 

Amen! Come, Lord Jesus!

 

21 The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all the saints. Amen.

Verse of the Day 10/6

Colossians 2:6-7 Therefore, as you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, walk in Him, 7 rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, overflowing with gratitude. (HCSB)

 

We'll continue our theme from John 3:30 "He must become greater, I must become less" and how it relates to "making Jesus famous".  Today's verses in Colossians 2 gives an indication that "living a life that shows" should be "a given" in a life of faith in Christ.  Walking in Him is a continual day to day process, not put down and taken up again on Sunday.  Being rooted involves getting to know Him better, developing our roots, becoming secure in our faith and our understanding.  Being established shows on the surface that such roots are in place, able to withstand the trials and storms in life.  The last part "over flowing with gratitude" can sometimes be the most challenging aspect, especially while in or after having just come through the storm.

 

There are other times when those storms (over time) actually help to ground us, root us, and to establish or re-establish our faith.  13 years ago today, our son Jeff was in an accident which left him with a TBI and permanently disabled.  It was the biggest trial in our family's lives.  There were dark days and nights but we've come through with stronger faith with grateful hearts for Jeff's life today and how he desires to make Jesus famous.  Jeff's is a life that shows, he has a Light that glows.

 

A Life That Shows -   Commissioned

 

You need a life that shows
Every single day, every way
Light that glows
You need a life that shows

 

People deal with you every day
They see you come, and likewise go
They listen to the words that you say
What you stand for they dont they know
A little upward show will let them know
It's the Lord you stand for

 

You need a life that shows
You need a to be a light -
(Light that glows)

 

One of Jeff's sayings is "hope is my favorite thing to have".  His hope is in the Lord and it shines in Jeff.

 

In Christ,
Mike

 

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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 2:4-7  Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
Christ versus the Colossian Heresy

 

4 I am saying this so that no one will deceive you with persuasive arguments. 5 For I may be absent in body, but I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see how well ordered you are and the strength of your faith in Christ.

 

6 Therefore, as you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, walk in Him, 7 rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, overflowing with gratitude.

Verse of the Day 10/5

  Acts 19:20  So the word of the Lord grew mightily and prevailed.   (NKJV)

 

How important is God's Word, the Bible in your life as you live "your life"?  Is the Word growing in your heart and life?

 

We started this week by considering John the Baptist's statement in John 3:30 "He must become greater, I must become less and less".  Today's verse is another one that gives an indication of just how that happens in our lives.  As we grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ, His word will change us, have an impact on our lives, our walk.  It will, or should become self evident.  That's a strange play on words, I know, but the prominence of His Word, His Spirit in our lives should be evident to us.

 

Now, think of the word "prevails".  Webster's defines it this way - to gain the advantage or mastery; be victorious, triumph and also to produce or achieve the desired effect; to be or become stronger or more widespread, predominate.  As His Word predominates, gains mastery over us, achieves the desired effect He will become stronger, more "widespread".  His influence will become evident in every aspect of our lives and enable us to live a "victorious life" to the glory of God.

 

The other day I spoke of the "pathway of blessing".  His Word is a "lamp unto our feet and a light for our path"  I know that I refer to it often, but the words to the old hymn, "Living for Jesus" come to mind.

 

Living for Jesus, a life that is true,
Striving to please Him in all that I do;
Yielding allegiance, glad-hearted and free,
This is the pathway of blessing for me.

 

In Christ,
Mike

 

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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

Acts 19:19-21  New King James Version (NKJV)
19 Also, many of those who had practiced magic brought their books together and burned them in the sight of all. And they counted up the value of them, and it totaled fifty thousand pieces of silver. 20 So the word of the Lord grew mightily and prevailed.

 

21 When these things were accomplished, Paul purposed in the Spirit, when he had passed through Macedonia and Achaia, to go to Jerusalem, saying, "After I have been there, I must also see Rome."

Verse of the Day 10/4

Numbers 30:2 If a man vows a vow to the Lord, or swears an oath to bind himself by a pledge, he shall not break his word. He shall do according to all that proceeds out of his mouth.  (ESV)

A devotional that I read this morning brought me to Numbers chapter 30.  I must admit that I have not referenced the book of Numbers very often in these devotionals, but today, it seemed fitting. 

 

The heading of the passage in my ESV Bible is "Men and Vows".  Going back to the book of Genesis, we can see that through all of history men have made vows.  The measure of a man, the measure of his commitment to his God, his spouse, his children, his church or his country, revolve around his words his vows.

 

Last night millions of Americans watched and listened intently to a debate between our two presidential candidates.  Promises, vows, were made on both sides.  These men will be judged by us on the vows they've made in the past and the ones that they made last night.  But they won't only be judged by us.  God knows every word every vow that is spoken whether it is by a candidate for President of the most powerful nation of the world or his humblest servant.

 

May we do our best to fulfill our vows to each other and to God.  What a difference it would make in our lives and in our nation if we took our vows seriously.  How much pain, brokeness and disappointment would be avoided and averted in lives and marriages if we would take our own words more seriously.

 

In Christ,
Mike

 

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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

Numbers 30:1-2  English Standard Version (ESV)
Men and Vows

 

30 Moses spoke to the heads of the tribes of the people of Israel, saying, "This is what the Lord has commanded. 2 If a man vows a vow to the Lord, or swears an oath to bind himself by a pledge, he shall not break his word. He shall do according to all that proceeds out of his mouth.

Verse of the Day 10/3

Philippians 4:9  Do what you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you.  (HCSB)

 

Yesterday we considered John the Baptist's signature statement, "He must become greater I must become less and less".  It is the pathway of blessing and the pathway to making Jesus famous.  Today's verse written by Paul while he was in jail, gives us the blueprint for doing this.

 

Some translations say "practice" the HCSB simply says do.  Don't make excuses, as the NIke advertising campaign effectively says "just do it".  In the case of following Jesus, it is taking what we've learned, received, heard and seen in Christ in the gospels and working in the lives of His followers in the rest of the New Testament and living it.  And what will the result of this mean for us?  Peace from the God of peace.

 

In this crazy life, with all of its demands, trials and frustrations don't we need to have the God of peace with us.  As we do what we've learned, received, heard and seen, in Christ, as we give our best effort in His power, He will become greater in our hearts and in the eyes of those who see Him working in us, and His peace will be with us.   Is that not making Him famous?

 

In Christ,
Mike

 

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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

Philippians 4:8-10  New Living Translation (NLT)

8 And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. 9 Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me—everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you.

 

Paul's Thanks for Their Gifts

 

10 How I praise the Lord that you are concerned about me again. I know you have always been concerned for me, but you didn't have the chance to help me.

Verse of the Day 10/2

Verse of the Day 10/2

 

John 3:30  He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less. New Living Translation (NLT)

Most people that send e-mails have a "signature", a statement or title that follows their name at the end of a message.  If John the Baptist were to send letters or e-mails he might very well quote today's verse as a constant reminder to himself and to his readers and followers that Jesus Christ has first place in his life.  The NLT translation gives us the impression that it a continual, continuing process.  It is not something to be achieved and crossed off our to do list.  It is a way of life.

 

Reading this passage yesterday in the NLT revealed the components of this "signature" in the life of John and is a model for us.  There are several "I" statements in the passage, but in contrast to the early chapters of Ecclesiastes where Solomon related everything to himself, John relates and submits to Jesus the Messiah.  In verse 28 we read "I am not the Messiah, I am only here to prepare the way for Him".  Could that be our attitude?  It calls and challenges us to prepare for His second coming.  In verse 29 we read "I am filled with joy at his success".  It is all about Him, not us, it is about His success - reaching the lost, bringing healing, comfort, forgiveness, and salvation and this brings us great joy.

 

Solomon had become the richest man but, apart from God, counted it as vanity, chasing the wind.  John the Baptist dressed in course clothing and ate bugs, but he found meaning in his life as he magnified the Messiah and did his best to make Him famous.

 

Apart from Him and all His meaning

All things fail as they begin

And hearts deceived

Can only know

A chasing of the wind

 

In Christ,
Mike

 

Follow the Verse of the Day blog at 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

John 3:28-31  New Living Translation (NLT)
28 You yourselves know how plainly I told you, 'I am not the Messiah. I am only here to prepare the way for him.' 29 It is the bridegroom who marries the bride, and the best man is simply glad to stand with him and hear his vows. Therefore, I am filled with joy at his success. 30 He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less.

 

31 "He has come from above and is greater than anyone else. We are of the earth, and we speak of earthly things, but he has come from heaven and is greater than anyone else.