Dec 26-Dec 31 Hallelujah! God Reigns!

December 26
Are You Ready?
Read Revelation 15-16

Rev 16:15 “Behold, I come like a thief! Blessed is he who stays awake and keeps his clothes with him, so that he may not go naked and be shamefully exposed.”

DO THE plagues of Revelation 16 remind you of another time of God redeeming his people? See Exodus chapters 7-11, and you’ll see the plagues of Egypt that are similar and the same—water turned to blood, darkness, and sores.
The theme of the second exodus runs through Revelation. The God of the beginning and the end set his salvation in motion when he called Abraham to be the father of numberless people. The vision of uncountable people in Heaven, the plagues on the earth that demonstrate God’s invincible power once again, and the ultimate freedom of his people from persecution tell us God is on his throne. All activity comes under his hand, and he we are not to trifle with him, doubting his ultimate authority over our eternal lives.
The Apostle Paul (1 Thessalonians 3:2) the church to be ready for such an appearance by the King of Judgment. John warns us, too, in this picture of the end.
People are fearful of this day. Why? Are they not ready?


Pause and Consider: The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge. (Prov 1:7). Fear also prepares you for the final judgment.

December 27
Victory in the Lord
Read Revelation 17

Rev 17:6-7 When I saw her, I was greatly astonished. 7 Then the angel said to me: “Why are you astonished? I will explain to you the mystery of the woman and of the beast she rides, which has the seven heads and ten horns.

WHAT IS the meaning of this?
The seven heads of the beast are seven hills on which the woman sits. Rome is the “city of the seven hills”. Rome is the ‘Mother of prostitutes’. And the seven heads also represent seven kings. The phrase “five have fallen” means that the majority of kings have come and gone. One is currently on the throne, and one has not yet come. When he does come, he must remain for a little while because ‘the time is near’ (1:3). After his departure the beast will reveal itself in an eighth king, who is not a newcomer, for he has already appeared as one of the seven.
It is believed this 8th king is Nero. He was emperor of Rome who severely persecuted Christians. But he is going to his destruction, as every God-opposing monster goes.
The ten horns are ten kings. They are with the Antichrist, the leader of Rome. They rule satellite states. But they have not yet received a kingdom, and they will receive their authority along with the beast for a short time. God allows but limits their rampage!
Their war against the Lamb is useless, for he is Lord of lords and King of kings. His called, chosen and faithful followers will share his victory.


Pause and Consider: Jesus is truly King and Conqueror.


December 28
God Invites You Out of Exile
Read Revelation 18

Rev 18:4 Then I heard another voice from heaven say: “Come out of her, my people, so that you will not share in her sins, so that you will not receive any of her plagues.”

AS YOU may recall, in the studies of Jeremiah and Ezekiel, we saw God’s judging his people for their sins by sending them into exile to Babylon. And we saw his great love in the salvation of his people by bringing them out of Babylon to be with him again.
The image here of Babylon is a picture of Rome in John’s time. Rome is the country persecuting God’s people. Rome, as was Babylon, is the most powerful country on the earth. John’s Jewish readers would clearly understand the connection between Rome of their day and Babylon in their history.
And the promise God gives to John is the same promise God gave to Ezekiel. God will rescue his people out of “Babylon” and welcome them home to a life with him. The day came when Rome stopped persecuting Christians and became the center of the Christian world.
We can be strengthened and encouraged today that one day God will deliver his Church from today’s persecution and into a glorious place with him. He will bring the Church out of its “exile” where it is demeaned and diminished and welcomed “home” into a place of triumph.
Again, this applies to your individual life, too. Are you feeling you are in “exile” from God for some reason? Then know he wants you to be with him. Go to him. Give yourself to him. And live a life of joy with him.


Pause and Consider: God wants you to be with him.  
December 29
The Perfect Marriage
Read Revelation 19

Revelation 19:6-8 Then I heard what sounded like a great multitude, like the roar of rushing waters and like loud peals of thunder, shouting: “Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns. 7 Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready. 8 Fine linen, the righteous acts of the saints, are bright and clean, was given her to wear.”


WEDDINGS are beautiful occasions. The bride long plans. The groom steps into his place, and they are prayerfully joined into a one-flesh union God declared in Genesis. A flesh-to-flesh, spirit-to-spirit relationship between man and woman perfects God’s creation.
God was in that first union. He had created it. He made it perfect. History has been God’s long plan to restore that sin-broken perfect union. John’s vision describes that time!
Thus, as we come to the restored perfect union between God and his people for eternity, the wedding image is fitting, isn’t it?
Jesus Christ, the Lamb, who is joined with his bride—the Church, all who call on Jesus as Lord and Savior. They come in white linen because his blood has made them clean. And now the church is holy and righteous.
Oh, my! John writes further in Rev 19:9-10: “‘Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb!’” And he added, ‘These are the true words of God.’ 10 At this I fell at his feet to worship him.”
Yes! Worship such a Savior who joins with us for eternity. Give him thanks, and celebrate your holy God.
You can trust such a marvelous perfect God who weds you into a perfect, holy, eternal union with Him.


Pause and Consider: how God unites with you.  
December 30
One Final Heart Check
Read Revelation 20

Rev 20:11 Then I saw a great white throne and him who was seated on it. Earth and sky fled from his presence, and there was no place for them.

GOOD vs. evil, God vs. Satan is the battle waged from beginning to end in Scripture. Hopefully in a time of reading of God’s holiness, his judgment, his grace and his salvation, you have come to a deeper understanding that the battle never lets up until this time of completion. We must live in trust that our God reigns. In his reign he moves all things to his purpose to bring you to his home forever.
This chapter is a picture of God binding Satan for a period of time, then releasing him, then condemning him forever. It is a picture of a time of peace in Christ’s Church. Then God loosens Satan for a short time. There’s always the question, “Why would God not just bind him once and forever?”
The answer may be that God is using Satan to check his people’s hearts. God allowed Satan into Eden to see what kind of hearts his people had. We failed. One more time, he’ll do this. The unfaithful will perish. This is the last opportunity to turn your faith to Jesus. There will be no more salvation offered to those who do not trust God. The faithless die. The faithful will live.
And then God will end it. For all time his presence will fill the new heaven and earth described in the final two chapters.
How is your heart? Would God find you faithful amid Satan’s temptations? Satan is tempting you now. Stand firm in your God, and let him fill you forever.


Pause and Consider: how you must always be on guard to defeat Satan’s evil.  
December 31
Drink God’s Life Water
Read Revelation 21-22

Rev 22:17 The Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” And let him who hears say, “Come!” Whoever is thirsty, let him come; and whoever wishes, let him take the free gift of the water of life.

WHAT ELSE is there to say? Trust your God. He has given himself entirely to you so that you may enter freely into his home.
Will you accept his invitation? Go to him from wherever you are—rich or poor, happy or sad, sick or healthy, hopeless or hopeful, confused or decided, indifferent or determined, proud or humble—whatever your state of mind, body and soul, you can go more fully with God.
Yes, you can listen to the power of his living Word, Jesus Christ. You can experience the power of the Holy Spirit. You can feel in these words the expression of the Father’s love.
Accept his invitation now to dwell more fully with him. Anticipate a wonderful life with your heavenly Father.
Trust his salvation in all he gives to you. After all, he gives you everything.
Amen.


Bob James
Working Everyday for the King of Kings

December 24, 2911 Live Forever

Day 40: December 24

Luke 2:12-14 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” 13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, 14 “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.”

DID YOU ever wonder why God, the eternal Father, the creator of the universe, the one who has made majestic mountains and one-cell animals—would have his very own Son born in a manger?
I’ve been around mangers. They’re dirty. Animals drool into a manger as they eat, and who knows what other organisms live there? Oh, God, couldn’t you at least have opened a room in the crowded inn for your own Son?
Actually, you could ask a number of “why questions” about Jesus’ life. Why was he born into lower-class working family? Why did he wait until he was 30 to begin ministering? Why did people hate him so? Why did they kill him?
Based on the Bible—the beginning to end—I believe the Father’s answer would be something like this:
“Why, you ask, did I allow My Son to have such a hard birth, life and death? It was all for you, my child. You see, my Son is my gift to you. Through him, I have shown you how much I love you. Sending my Son from the most glorious existence in Heaven to the lowliest place on earth was a hard thing to do. But it was and is for you. I wanted to show you real humility, so that you would be humble to let my words teach you. You would be humbled to know I will do anything to save you.
“I wanted my Son to know what work is like for you, so he could understand your frustrations and pain as you turn to him in prayer. My Son’s life was to show you I am willing to do anything to have you turn and call me Father. My Son’s death was to open the doorway to my home for you forever.
“This is all for you, my child. I am a God who walks with you everywhere, even when it stinks, when it’s uncomfortable, when it’s downright hard. My Son has experienced this. He knows your needs. Trust him, and turn to him. When you do, I promise I will welcome you into my home. And we—me, my Son, Spirit and you—will live together forever in the glory the shepherds saw that night.”

Pause and consider God’s eternal gift for you. Have you accepted Jesus as your Savior? If you have yet to do so, here’s God’s promise to you if you do:

Romans 10:9 If you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.

Get on your knees. Pray to God, “Lord, God, I have sinned against you. I am lost without you. Lord, please forgive me of my sins. Take the burden of sin from me as you have promised. Lord, I trust your promise. I receive Jesus into my heart as my Savior. Holy Spirit, guide me in your power that I may live joyfully in a forever friendship with you, the Father, and the Son. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Pray this prayer. Receive the gift and live forever.

December 24, 2011 A Walk of Faith

A Walk of Faith
Read Luke 2

Luke 2:4-5 So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. 5 He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child.

JOSEPH and Mary are on an 80-mile walk from Nazareth in Galilee to Bethlehem in Judea. The journey would take about 5-8 days, depending on how everyone was feeling. These are the next steps of God’s magnificent plan to save the world.
Centuries. Consider the years of promises and prophecies from Abraham to Isaac to Joseph to Moses to Samuel to David to Isaiah to Daniel to Joseph and Mary. Wait. “Joseph and Mary”, can we say their names in the same breath with the mighty, godly heroes of Israel’s history? Joseph and Mary are misfits, impoverished, scared and just following the crowd.
Or are they misfits? Joseph and Mary are surely as much a part of God’s plan of salvation as the “mighty and famous”. Actually these men were mere mortals, too, until God said, “You!”
God takes “misfits” and fits them perfectly into his plan. That’s why he’s called you. Yes, you. You’re really not a misfit. You may think you are, but you’re not.
When you say, “Yes, Lord.” you enter into a journey that goes step by step to where God fits you perfectly to Him. He takes you to the places he needs you to go—a crowded town, a stinky stable, a sheep pasture, a rocky road, a mountain top, a fertile plain, a cross, Heaven. Enjoy the wonder of your journey with him and to him.


Pause and Consider: how God makes you fit into his love.

December 23, 2011 Time to Celebrate Jesus

Time to Celebrate Jesus’ Birth!
Read Luke 1

Luke 1:26-28 In the sixth month, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, 27 to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin's name was Mary. 28 The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.”

ENTER MARY. She’s the virgin. Oh my, Mary’s virginity is a very big deal! In Genesis, right after Eve and Adam turned their trust from God, God turned to them and said he would turn their mistrust into trust through the seed of a woman—not a woman and a man, but a woman.
And in Isaiah 7:14, we read the prophecy, “The Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.” (Immanuel means God come down.)
Oh, yes. It has been God’s plan for over 2,000 years to send his Son from the limitless heaven to the limits of humanity. Here is the moment. This little teenaged virgin he picked out of every woman who would ever live is Mary, simple and pure. Mary, highly favored.
Guess what. You are like Mary. Yes, you are, even if you’re a man or not a virgin. God had a special purpose for highly favored Mary. And God has a special purpose for highly favored you.
Do you think I’m crazy? I’m not. I’m just looking at God, looking at the cross, and looking at God’s Word. Yes, you are highly favored. Immanuel came through the virgin to free you from sin, to point you to Heaven, and to give your life a special purpose. Oh yes, my friend you are highly favored!


Pause and Consider: God’s favor of salvation is over you forever.

December 22, 2011 The Gospel Reigns

The Gospel Reigns
Read Revelation 14

Rev 14:6-7 Then I saw another angel flying in midair, and he had the eternal gospel to proclaim to those who live on the earth — to every nation, tribe, language and people. 7 He said in a loud voice, “Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of his judgment has come. Worship him who made the heavens, the earth, the sea and the springs of water.

THE GOSPEL reigns. In the midst of the tribulation is the message of salvation. The “angels” are humans who are called to prophecy—to preach and teach the gospel. What else is there to do? From beginning to end the Bible is the message of salvation—even when the people of the world seem to be far from their creator.
The gospel is the sharp sickle that reaps the harvest. The gospel is that winepress that separates the saved from the wicked. The King reigns, and his will is done on earth as it is in heaven.
The 144,000 are the “firstfruits to God and the Lamb”. They are soldiers of the Lamb with the mark of God on their foreheads. The redeemed of the earth have not yet arrived as the warriors do battle for the Lamb of God.
Yes, the Gospel reigns. Be faithful in the midst of trials. Trust the sharp edge of God’s truth to destroy the doubts and fears in your life.


Pause and Consider: you have the sharp weapon of truth at your disposal.

December 21, 2011 The Devil Deceives

The Devil Deceives
Read Revelation 13

Rev 13:1 Then I saw a beast coming up out of the sea. It had ten horns and seven heads; on each of its horns there was a crown, and on each of its heads there was a name that was insulting to God.

“THE BEAST from the sea and the beast from the land form a kind of evil trinity. Satan claims to be God; the antichrist is the false Christ of Satan; and the beast from the earth performs the function of an unholy spirit.
The antichrist persuades the world to worship the devil. He has a fatal wound but lives, in a monstrous imitation of the resurrected Christ of God. The second beast seeks to persuade the world to worship the antichrist by his witness in word and deed, as the Holy Spirit witnesses to God’s Christ. And through the mark of the beast (itself a parody of the seal of God) he creates a devilish imitation of the church of Christ. So John depicts the world as divided between followers of the Truth and followers of the Lie.”
And then there is the “name that was insulting to God”. Who is that? “Despite the many possibilities that the number 666 yields, it is virtually certain that the individual thereby indicated was known in all the churches addressed by John, and probably far wider. The name Nero Caesar transliterated into Hebrew from Greek yields the number 666.”
Nero pointed to himself as a god to worship. In John’s day he was the devil’s false Christ and great persecution came in his rule. Again, God shows John that for a time, in his providence, he will allow persecution on his church and his people. And he also shows he is victorious.


Pause and Consider: how vital it is to know the truth.

December 20, 2011 God Protects His Church

God Protects His Church
Read Revelation 12

Rev 12:10 “Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Christ.”

JESUS’ AUTHORITY triumphs over the devil. This scripture summarizes the events of Chapter 12.
The woman is the church. The dragon is the devil. The church is in heaven because Jesus has won victory over evil and ascended to heaven. The devil in his awesome power, symbolized in Rev 12:4 “His tail swept a third of the stars out of the sky”, goes to heaven to try to defeat the church.
But the power of heaven defeats the dragon and sends him to earth. In the meantime, God has sent his church to the desert, far away from the dragon in the sea. God’s protection of his people in the desert mirrors the Exodus. God’s people then were released from slavery and the devil’s hold in Egypt. They are now released from and protected from the devil for 3 ½ years of extreme persecution.
And again, the theme is clear, amid this great persecution, God protects his church. Jesus’ blood and resurrection is the eternal triumph. All forces of evil will battle against our Lord. And he will overcome.
Live with Jesus. Trust in his victory. Overcome the evil that wants to destroy you.


Pause and Consider: how being in a “desert” can bring you closer to Jesus.

December 19, 2011 The Lord's Kingdom

The Lord’s Kingdom
Read Revelation 11

Rev 11:15 “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he will reign forever and ever.”

HOW DOES the kingdom of the world become “the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ”? It takes witnesses to speak the truth in power and in Spirit to an opposing world.
Two witnesses doing just that are described in this chapter. Who are they? Clues come in Rev 11:5-6 These men have power to shut up the sky so that it will not rain during the time they are prophesying; and they have power to turn the waters into blood and to strike the earth with every kind of plague as often as they want.
Check out Elijah’s power in 2 Kings 1 and 1 Kings 17—fire and drought. Check out Moses’ power in Exodus—water to blood and all kinds of plagues.
These witnesses are symbolic of the power of God’s Spirit come upon certain men. And this power then comes upon the church. The church receives the power of the Spirit to witness. And although the vision describes a temporary victory of evil over the witnesses—the church—the vision concludes with the victory of the church.
One day will come that final triumphant call, “And he will reign forever and ever.” This is the truth of the end of the age and the final triumph of Christ’s church over Satan’s opposition. You can apply it, also, to your life right now.
If you feel persecuted and defeated because hard things—even sin—have come against you, call on God to free you. Call on God’s power to redeem the circumstances. And you will live in victory right now.


Pause and Consider: Christ’s victory available to you.

December 18, 2011 Clearly Revealed

Clearly Revealed
Read Revelation 10

Rev 10:6-7 “But in the days when the seventh angel is about to sound his trumpet, the mystery of God will be accomplished, just as he announced to his servants the prophets.”

“AH HA!” you’ve exclaimed. “Now I get it!” Some concept or process was a mystery to you. You heard many times, “This is how it’s done.” But you couldn’t quite figure it out. Now, suddenly, you know.
There will come that day when God will suddenly be completely clear to the world. Millions of lost souls have heard the truth of God’s great salvation through Jesus Christ. Sadly, millions of souls have said, “I don’t get it.”
But on that day when God is clear to the world, they will fully know all of who God is. And the world will cower in fear. They will know it is too late to say, “What must I do to be saved?”
Our work is to tell people now they can trust the mystery of God come to earth in human form, and God comes now in his Spirit to wash clean our sin.


Pause and Consider: what you do to do God’s work.

December 17, 2011 God Triumphs

God Triumphs
Read Revelation 8 - 9

Rev 8:3-54 The smoke of the incense, together with the prayers of the saints, went up before God from the angel's hand. 5 Then the angel took the censer, filled it with fire from the altar, and hurled it on the earth; and there came peals of thunder, rumblings, flashes of lightning and an earthquake.

THE SEVENTH seal is opened, and there is 30 minutes of silence in heaven. The 30 minutes, some say, allow the prayers of God’s people on earth to be heard. It could also mean that people who oppose God have no more to say. They are faced with judgment, and their excuses are useless. The incense purifies the prayers before the altar. Then the prayers are answered in judgment.
Judgment is cast down from heaven to protect the saints and to judge the sinners. Chapter 8:6 – 11:19 records God’s terrible judgment against a foe that will not surrender.
When the 7 trumpets sound in succession, judgment goes onto those who oppose God. Even after the 5 months’ horrific pain from scorpions and hell-like destruction of fire, sulphur and smoke—sin still prevails. A powerful lesson to learn here is that the dominion of hell is ever-attacking. Satan will not give up easily. He knows he is fighting to the death.
It is good to know two things: First is this: Evil strives desperately and relentelesly to destroy us and separate us from God. Second is this: God triumphs.
We have been given this view of the end of days to be aware of these two truths. Call on the power of the Holy Spirit each day to defeat the relentless evil in the world.
Rejoice each day in the power of the Holy Spirit that God has chosen you and protected you from this hell forever.


Pause and Consider: God’s eternal protection over you.

December 16, 2011 Leading You to Life

Leading You to Life
Read Revelation 6 – 7

Rev 7:17 because the Lamb, who is in the center of the throne, will be their shepherd, and he will guide them to springs of life-giving water. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.”

WHAT IS your focus—the conflict or the victory?
I’ll briefly describe the 6 seals revealed in these chapters. The first four appear to symbolize judgment. The first seal shows an overwhelming powerful military force as one country invades another.
The second seal symbolizes general confusion and warfare within countries, perhaps even civil war. The third seal is about famine. A quart of barley costs much, and a man cannot earn enough to feed his family. Shortly before John’s vision, there was a shortage of grain and an abundance of grapes for wine. The wealthy had their luxuries. The “middle class” had little food.
The fourth seal is Death and its symbolisms and connections with Ezekiel’s prophecies indicate it is death by disease. The fifth seal is about the martyrs deaths. They triumph. Their robes are washed clean. And they worship their Savior.
The sixth seal is the cosmic signs of the end of the age and the coming of judgment on the earth. There will be fear among all people when they know that the Lord has come in power and in glory. This is the end of history as we know it.
Sounds awful, doesn’t it? It’s beyond awful. That is how costly sin is to humanity. But God’s reward to his own is much greater. Stand fast for the Lord in all circumstances, and he will remove your sorrow. He will give you an eternal life of joy in Him.


Pause and Consider: the awful consequences of sin.

December 15, 2011 A Worthy Savior

A Worthy Savior
Read Revelation 5

Rev 5:4-5 Then I began to weep bitterly because no one was found worthy to open the scroll and read it. 5 But one of the twenty-four elders said to me, “Stop weeping! Look, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the heir to David's throne, has won the victory. He is worthy to open the scroll and its seven seals.”

WHO IS WORTHY? Our Savior Jesus Christ is worthy to open the scroll. He has obeyed the Father and honored you. Yes, he is worthy.
The Lord gives John a glorious vision of his majesty. John has lived a hard life testifying for his Lord. He is at the end of his life. And Jesus, John’s ever-loving Lord, is showing John that his Lord truly overcomes the sin that keeps the sinner from true worship.
In essence, it seems Jesus reminds John that he has overcome. He is triumphant. Jesus has also told the church: “I stand at the door and knock for you.” He seems to be preparing John and the church for a most difficult, even terrible time in the future.
In the coming chapters the vision continues with very difficult and terrible things that occur in the world. But we must always understand these difficult events in the context of God’s reign.
The war of Evil opposing Good rages. And we know that the Lamb of God has already triumphed. Jesus has conquered evil because he has conquered death. Victory belongs to the Lord.
What are your struggles today? Look to the Holy God for strength to walk through the battles in your life. Walk with confidence that your triumphant Lord leads you to a triumphant life.


Pause and Consider: how Jesus gives you the tools to deal with the trouble.

December 14, 2011 Your Will Be Done

Your Will Be Done
Read Revelation 4

Rev 4:2-3 At once the Spirit took control of me. There in heaven was a throne with someone sitting on it. 3 His face gleamed like such precious stones as jasper and carnelian, and all around the throne there was a rainbow the color of an emerald.
&
Rev 4:11 Our Lord and God! You are worthy to receive glory, honor, and power. For you created all things, and by your will they were given existence and life.

SUDDENLY the scene shifts. The current state of the church on earth has been addressed. Now it’s time for John to see the heavenly realm.
This vision is the first of two, the second is in Chapter 5. The two visions are about one truth: the God, who creates, is the God, who redeems. He makes his purpose happen through the crucified and risen Christ.
John sees the heavenly realm. The glory and the majesty have also been described in Isaiah, Ezekiel and Daniel. The purity of worship amid the glory of God is unimaginable, described with mere words.
Verse 11 clearly defines that there is only one worthy to be the Lord of creation—the Creator. The Son celebrates the Father’s worth. In the words “on account of your will they were created” we see a look into the future. And what we see is that God’s will is the ultimate power in the universe. There is no doubt that his will shall be done.
This is our prayer. God will completely answer that prayer at the end of the age.


Pause and Consider: God’s will is to defeat sin through Jesus Christ.

December 13, 2011 A Big, Big Love

A Big, Big Love
Read Revelation 3

Rev 3:20-21 Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.

THREE CHURCHES, three judgments, one promise—Jesus’ love and salvation washes over his hard words and warnings.
Sardis was on a high hill, an Acropolis, thought to be impregnable. But five times the hill was conquered because the inhabitants did not believe anyone would attack. They didn’t watch. So our Lord says in Rev 3:3 “fast and repent. Therefore if you will not watch, I will come upon you as a thief, and you will not know what hour I will come upon you.” The warning: always be on the watch against attacks from evil.
Philadelphia suffered from many earthquakes. But Jesus assures this faithful church that: Rev 3:7 He who is holy, He who is true, “He who has the key of David, He who opens and no one shuts, and shuts and no one opens” Nothing but the power of the King can open or close the door to the Kingdom of God.
And against Laodicea, Jesus speaks of their lukewarmness. They have no passion. He even prefers they are passionately against him to their lukewarm culture! His judgment is severe. And then his promise is forever.
“Behold” he says. He wants to be sure you hear him. He’s knocking at the door. Yes, he has come to speak of your sin. But he loves you so much he can’t hold back. He is passionate for you. And now he’s calling on you to answer him.
In the words against these churches we can see our lives. Jesus is imploring the church and you to respond and to see his love.


Pause and Consider: His love is much, much bigger than your sin. Will you open the door to your heart?

December 11, 2011 Majestic, Wonderful

Majestic, Wonderful
Read Revelation 1

Rev 1:14-15 His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow, and his eyes were like blazing fire. 15 His feet were like bronze glowing in a furnace, and his voice was like the sound of rushing waters.

YOU’RE probably saying, “Oh, no. Revelation! Forget it. I’ll never understand it.” I believe that’s a typical response to this majestic book of God’s glory and triumph. The account of the end of time is too grand to hold onto and more than our imagination can grasp. God’s final victory is wider, deeper and higher than any concepts our experience has taught us. This vision given to the Apostle John is a peek at who God is beyond his earthly manifestations.
Revelation is a book that shows the depth, too, of evil and its pervasive influence over the world. It is a book of battle, of worship, of glory, of victory. C’mon, let’s spend 3 weeks in “this vision” to see what we will learn.
To begin, when Jesus comes to John, he is clothed in his glory. This tells us why everyone in the Bible who saw a visitor from God was afraid. Jesus’ appearance sounds scary, brilliant, wonderful and glorious. He radiated with all the brilliant light of God’s glory.
John fell down in fear. But Jesus called him up, and gave him a task. When we meet the Living Lord in prayer or in worship, we, too, are often afraid as we wonder: “What will he have me do?”
John knew to obey. When Jesus told John to write, that’s exactly what John did. And here we are today, reading what he wrote and wondering, “What, Jesus, are you saying to me, to the world?”
Let’s see if we answer that question—even just a little bit. In 3 weeks, we’ll know more than we do now. You who have an ear, listen to Jesus in his majesty and truth.


Pause and Consider: how the majestic Jesus has come to you.

December 10, 2011 A Blessing to Offer

A Blessing to Offer
Read Jude

Jude 2 Mercy, peace and love be yours in abundance
&
Jude 25 to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority

JUDE begins this short letter with a blessing. We’re getting close to New Year’s Day, and I think the blessing is a wonderful greeting to send to your friends to begin the new year.
What better thing could happen to people in the coming year than to experience and enjoy an abundance of mercy, peace and love to receive and to give? A life filled with these blessings is a life that is responding to God’s grace of salvation. And it is a life that gracefully offers mercy, peace and love to others.
Be careful to guard this blessing. Many will come along to attack your beliefs. They will test your commitment to your Lord. And you will be tempted to turn from God’s gracious gifts to you.
So remember who you worship. In Jesus Christ, your Savior, is glory, majesty, power and authority. Jesus’ glory is the honor we give him because he has paid the price for our sin. Jesus’ majesty is his Kingship. He reigns over all the earth. Jesus’ power cancels sin, judges wrong and welcomes his own into his Kingdom. Jesus’ authority is to be feared. He has the final say on who enters heaven.
Yes, as you believe in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, you have received mercy, peace and love. Nurture these wonderful gifts. Cause these blessings to grow in you by giving them to others.


Pause and Consider: evil in the world will attack you because of your gifts. Jesus will protect you.

December 9, 2011 Truly Transforming Love

Truly Transforming Love
Read 2 John

2 John 4-6 It has given me great joy to find some of your children walking in the truth, just as the Father commanded us. 5 And now, dear lady, I am not writing you a new command but one we have had from the beginning. I ask that we love one another. 6 And this is love: that we walk in obedience to his commands. As you have heard from the beginning, his command is that you walk in love.

HAS anyone ever written to you to celebrate the love that Jesus gives to you? John’s letter is to a woman with several children. He celebrates that she loves Jesus.
I know this is nothing new to “walk in love”—to love God and others. We’ve heard it since we were pre-schoolers in Sunday School and in other places along the road of life. And John’s other writings are full of this great Christ command. You’ve heard it so often, and you know in your heart it’s what you must do. So, are you “doing the love”?
Loving people who do lousy things, who don’t like you or irritate you is difficult, if not impossible, isn’t it? I’m sure John struggled with this and people tried to kill him, and he lived in exile, too.
What did he know about loving others before Jesus walked into his life? What did he know about loving others as he walked with Jesus and saw people throw rocks at his rabbi? What did he know about love until he saw the Master of Love, love those who hated him and killed him. What did he know about love until he saw the Power of Love change lives, especially his own?
John personally knew Jesus’ great love. Do you?


Pause and Consider: that same transforming, unending love from the Lord of Love is for you, too.

December 8, 2011 Eyewitness Testimony

Eyewitness Testimony
Read 1 John

1 John 4:14 Furthermore, we have seen with our own eyes and now testify that the Father sent his Son to be the Savior of the world.
&
1 John 4:16 We know how much God loves us, and we have put our trust in his love.

“HOW DO YOU know the Bible is true?” Has anyone ever asked you that question? Have you asked the question?
There are several ways to know the truth of the Bible. One of these ways is to listen to the New Testament writers. You will often see in the Gospels and letters such statements as we have here, “we have seen with our own eyes.”
John was the youngest disciple. And he became an Apostle of Jesus Christ. He walked with Jesus, saw the miracles, heard the teaching, stood in front of the cross when Jesus died, walked into the empty tomb. He saw Jesus alive again as Jesus came to him and the others several times after his resurrection. And he saw Jesus ascend to heaven.
Quite an eyewitness.
And what does he do with what he has seen? He tells the truth about Jesus. He calls people to love such a loving Savior. He is a witness to how Jesus is the Lord of life, and he knows only Jesus’ commands matter.
How are you an eyewitness to Jesus’ love? Are you saved? How do you know? Is your life different? Do you think and live better with Jesus as your Lord? When you trust him, do you personally know the power of his Spirit in you?
Then you, too, can be an eyewitness to your Lord Jesus.


Pause and Consider: eyewitnesses witness.

December 7, 2011 Good Things To Have

Good Things to Have
Read 2 Peter

2 Peter 1:3-7 By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence. 4 And because of his glory and excellence, he has given us great and precious promises. These are the promises that enable you to share his divine nature and escape the world's corruption caused by human desires. 5 In view of all this, make every effort to respond to God's promises. Supplement your faith with a generous provision of moral excellence, and moral excellence with knowledge, 6 and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with patient endurance, and patient endurance with godliness, 7 and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love for everyone.

EVERYONE wants harmony, peace, love and joy in their lives, don’t we? To get to that kind of life, we go through a process. From when we are born to when we grow old (in God’s grace) our parents, our schools, certain people and other influences guide us to learn and mature. If we learn from life’s lessons, we can essentially live a mature life of good relationships and economic stability.
Peter has given to you a very specific formula to live well with God. Following this plan from the time you are “born again”, you will have a mature life of peace and joy in Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
One term that may not be clear to you is “godly” or “godliness”. This word actually points to living a life as close to God as possible. For example, you read Scripture, worship, tithe, and serve with your Spiritual gifts.
God the Father has given you a plan to mature in him. The plan leads to harmony, peace, love and joy in your life.


Pause and Consider: You want that, right?

December 6, 2011 Loving Reconciliation

Loving Reconciliation
Read 1 Peter

1 Peter 4:8 Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.

DO you want to know how to get along with others—spouse, family, friends, and even your “enemies”? Take to heart these words from Peter. They are words of reconciliation. They are words of making and keeping peace. They are words to help you deal with harsh words others may say to you. These are words that help you live in line with Jesus’ teachings.
Peter’s letter tells you how to get along. Check out chapter 3, and you’ll find help for your marriage. Chapter 4 speaks of responding to those who oppose your Christian way of life. Chapter 5 talks of elders caring for others.
This letter goes to the heart of the church—people caring for each other, people withstanding suffering, and families living in harmony.
And who is at the center of Peter’s teachings? Of course, it is Jesus, the Prince of Peace, the Christ who cares for you.
Pray for Jesus’ caring touch on yourself today. Pray you can show that care to others. Yes, do love others deeply. That kind of love will make a profound difference in your life and those you touch each day.


Pause and Consider: you can enjoy the peace of the Prince of Peace.

December 5, 2011 Listen to Your Tongue

Listen to Your Tongue
Read James 3 – 5

James 3:9-12 With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God's likeness. 10 Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be. 11 Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring?

I’M GUILTY. I preach of praising God. Yet, I speak and think in judgment of people who irritate and oppose me. Isn’t that okay? After all, Jesus certainly spoke harsh words to many who opposed him. The Bible has many more harsh words from God through the prophets against people who opposed God.
The thing is, God is perfect and we’re not. James is teaching us to guard our words carefully. If you praise God, how can you speak ill of others? If you speak against God’s creation—his people—you speak against God. Your praises, then, are lies.
To be true to your words, speak well of others. If someone irritates you, you might consider how you have irritated others. Let it go. If someone speaks harsh words against you, think of how harsh words have never helped. Find a way to speak positive words to the offender.
It helps when we look to God’s overwhelming love over us. Dwelling in his love, we can more easily speak lovingly of others—even when we don’t want to do so.
Go ahead. Try it. I find when I trust God and hold my tongue from anger, my heart changes. My blood pressure drops. My thoughts go to God. I don’t feel the shame an outburst would cause me to feel.


Pause and Consider: how holding your tongue is a sign you trust God to handle the situation.

December 4, 2011 Troubles Are Good?

Troubles are Good?
Read James 1 - 2

James 1:2, 12-13 Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy.
&
James 1:12-13 God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. 13 Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.

DO YOU enjoy the trials in your life? Of course you don’t. Trials are debilitating, hurtful things that sap your energy, destroy your ability to enjoy life, and suck up the energy you need to live as you worry about them. Sounds pretty icky doesn’t it? Do you really want to let trials run your life? Or would you prefer to let God’s Word run your life?
What would happen to your mind, to your thought processes, to you attitude, if you counted your trials as joy? Quite simply, you would change.
Yes, you would find pleasure in life. You would be thankful for the little blessings and the ordinary goodness of each day. Finding joy in trials would ease your mind. You wouldn’t have to worry because you don’t worry about joyful things. You accept them and rejoice in them.
You would also live with expectation. You would realize that an attitude of joy regarding the trials in your life would lead to a special blessing from God!
Imagine that! Your earthly trials can lead to a special blessing God has planned for you if you patiently endure your trials. Yes, you will receive a crown of life!
Trusting God especially in times of your earthly trials will open your life to receive God’s blessing of joy now, preparing you for a life of joy with him forever.


Pause and Consider: a joy approach to the trials in your life.

December 3, 2011 Angels In the House?

Angels in the House?
Read Hebrews 13

Heb 13:2 Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it.

I HAVE always marveled at this verse. The possibility that angels may come to us in the form of humans and “test” us to see if we care for them is astounding. It has happened.
In Genesis both Abraham and Lot had the opportunity to care for and even to protect the angels that came into their presence. Why would God do this, send angels to test our desire to care for people in need?
It shows God’s great desire to care for the needy. The Bible from beginning to end has a strong message of caring for those to whom life has dealt a harsh blow. God establishes a number of rules for his people to care for and feed widows, orphans, and others in need. Jesus’ ministry, obviously, was amid the lowest classes of society. The poor are everywhere and constant.
Yes, sometimes people are lazy and make bad choices that lead to their poverty, and God will deal with them.
But there are plenty of people who have huge struggles from circumstances they can’t control. Yes, poverty is the result of difficult circumstances in a world of sin and “me first”.
God wants us to help those in need the best we can. He doesn’t want us to judge the poor—just care for them.


Pause and Consider: the reasons people are poor. Is there anything you can do to change one of those reasons?

December 2, 2011 Evidence of Faith

The Evidence of Faith
Read Hebrews 10 - 12

Heb 11:39 These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised.

READ HEBREWS 11, and you’ll see who “these” were. They were the great men and women of faith in the Old Testament. They were the ones whom God used to make his name known, to advance his kingdom and to tell of the coming Savior.
These great followers of God believed in God’s promise that he would send a Messiah. They had no proof that he would. They had no evidence of a child born in a manger who grew to become a great rabbi and died on a cross. They had no evidence of a resurrected Lord Jesus.
We have this evidence, and there is an historical basis for believing that Jesus will come again. But the people of old did not have that evidence. They only had their faith. That is why Hebrews focuses on faith as a key element of our relationship with God. The great names of the Old Testament had that faith, and God counted them as his because of their faith.
How much easier is it for us to have faith than they? It is very much easier. We have hindsight on the Son of God become Son of Man, who forgives all sin.
They had only God’s promises. They were faithful.
Are you wondering if God is truly real in your life? Then look to the Bible. Know the evidence. Be a person who trusts God to make his promises come true. He will. He always has.


Pause and Consider: the evidence of your faith.

December 1, 2011 In Awe of the Son

In Awe of the Son
Read Hebrews 7 – 9

Heb 9:14 How much more, then, will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences from acts that lead to death, so that we may serve the living God!

THE HEBREWS writer is focused on connecting the Old Testament, the Old Promise, with the New Testament, the New Promise, that Jesus gives us. This is a vital demonstration here of God’s sacrificial requirements. With the Old he required the blood from animals. With the new, he required the blood from his very own son.
Pause on that a minute or two minutes…
Welcome back. What do you think? Is there any sense of awe in your heart as you consider the Creator Father God killing his Son for you? Yes. That’s what he did. We don’t say it like that. We use “sacrifice”, “death” and “blood”, but who caused it? God the Father caused it. Why?
He loves you that much, good friend. He loves you beyond your understanding. He was willing to take His Son to the altar and kill him for you.
That’s what he did. Jesus died on a cross. The Living Water bled to death on a cross for you. Yes, he did.


Pause and Consider: what you will do for him.

November 30, 2011 A King Who Knows Struggles

A King Who Knows Struggles
Read Hebrews 4 – 6

Heb 4:14-15 Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has gone through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are — yet was without sin.

MY GRANDDAUGHTER is learning to play the violin. A teen-aged neighbor who plays for professional symphonies has offered to teach her. My granddaughter can trust her teacher’s instructions because her teacher has gone through the process of learning, practicing, failing and succeeding to perform at a high level.
It’s like that with all of us who truly want to learn, isn’t it? We want to learn from someone who has experienced the reality of dealing with difficulty and the victory that comes with persevering through the tough times.
Jesus is an exceptional King. What King has lived and died and risen again? What other king has even lived in difficulty? Very few. Most who have become an earthly king have grown up far away from difficulties their subjects experienced.
You can trust the King who has overcome the cross and the tomb. No issue is too much for him. All temporary defeats in life are transformed to total victory in Jesus Christ, who was tempted in every way, yet is perfect in every way for you.


Pause and Consider: Jesus knows what human life is like.

November 29, 2011 Growing Together

Grow Together
Read Hebrews 1 - 3

Heb 3:12-14 See to it, brothers, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God. 13 But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness. 14 We have come to share in Christ if we hold firmly till the end the confidence we had at first.

LIFE is a challenge. Be careful and be alert. Help each other stay true to God.
That in essence is what the writer of Hebrews is saying. These are words that those in the early church needed to hear as they dealt with many physical and verbal assaults on their new belief. These are also words that we in the 21st-century church must know as we deal with assaults on our beliefs.
The assaults on our belief in God are huge today. Threats of many kinds attempt to push us away from seeking and obeying him. Sometimes the threats are from within us—pride, lack of discipline to pray or read the Bible, anger, unforgiveness, or rejecting relationships.
Sometimes the attacks come from without—”the church is irrelevant”, “the church is too boring”, “I’d rather sleep in than worship God.”
Sometimes the attacks come from within the church—”I don’t like the music.” “There’s too much liturgy.” “There’s not enough liturgy.”
To stay strong in our relationship with Jesus, focus on him. It’s about him, not you. Deal honestly with your struggles, doubts and fears, and even your pride. Get your eyes off the mirror and look to the King. Grow in him. And grow together with others in your church.


Pause and Consider: the threats against your beliefs. Pray against them.

November 28, 2011 Savior's Ways Your Ways

Savior’s Ways, Your Ways?
Read Titus & Philemon

Titus 2:11-12 For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. 12 It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age.

WHAT IS salvation? It is God rescuing us from sin, isn’t it? He saves us from our sin. Salvation means we are right with him. And we will enter into Heaven when our time on earth is complete.
AND salvation is so much more! At the moment when we receive God’s gift of salvation, the Holy Spirit lives within us, and we take on an understanding that the ways of the world often oppose God’s ways.
Salvation, Paul says, teaches us to say “No.” to the world and to say “Yes.” to right living.
Do you ever think that because you have prayed to receive Jesus as Lord that it’s okay if you deliberately sin? I hope not. That is not salvation. That is an attitude of sin. “I can do anything I want. God will forgive me.” is a thought that comes from those seeking self, not seeking God. It is a thought of pride in self, not of joy in Jesus.
God’s salvation separates you from the world and unites you with him. Also in Titus, Paul lists several ways you may show your Savior to the world. I pray the Savior’s ways are your ways.


Pause and Consider: how salvation changes what you desire.

november 27, 2011 Whatever Age

Whatever Age
Read 1 Timothy 4-6

1 Tim 4:12 Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity.

WHAT defines a person’s testimony about Jesus Christ? It certainly isn’t his or her age. Paul’s writing to his young associate, Timothy, who has ministered and cared for new churches. Timothy has been in the “trenches” waging spiritual warfare with Paul and new believers. He’s a young man, still. And Paul is writing to encourage him.
And I want to encourage you—regardless of your age. Personally, I’ve learned much from young people. They often see life in a different way than my “older” eyes. Listening to wise young people has been a learning experience for me.
If you are young and love Jesus, then do not hold back because of your youth. Be a person who sets the trend among your friends. Speak of the Lord from your heart. Respond to Jesus’ love by living a life of example, speaking and living in a way that honors your suffering, resurrected Lord.


Pause and Consider: how we can learn from all around us.

November 26, 2011 Amazing Love

Amazing Love
Read 1 Timothy 1-3

1 Timothy 3:16 Beyond all question, the mystery of godliness is great: (God) appeared in a body, was vindicated by the Spirit, was seen by angels, was preached among the nations, was believed on in the world, was taken up in glory.

“MYSTERY” means difficult to understand, vague. What is the mystery Paul describes? There is a truly wonderful mystery defined by this: God appeared in a body.
I was made aware of this mysterious reality in a new way when I read these words from John Calvin, “How wide is the difference between God and man! And yet in Christ we behold the infinite glory of God united to our polluted flesh in such a manner that they become one.”
Another way to say this is, “Why would God, the holy one, whose glory is too frightful to behold come to earth to be a man surrounded by sin?”
We often ask of God, “Why?” when things don’t go our way. But do we ask him, “Why would you come to save me? Why would you send Jesus to earth to die? Why would you want to become one with me?”
Maybe we know the answer is: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16
“Amazing love how can it be, that you my King would die for me?” (Chris Tomlin—”I’m Forgiven”)


Pause and Consider: God loves you.

November 25, 2011 A Stronger Church

A Stronger Church
Read 2 Thessalonians

2 Thess 1:3 We ought always to thank God for you, brothers, and rightly so, because your faith is growing more and more, and the love every one of you has for each other is increasing.

THIS THANKSGIVING is very powerful for two reasons. First, the Apostle Paul thanks God for the people in this new church in Thessalonica. It is a good lesson for all of us involved in churches to take a few minutes each week, each day or on some regular basis to thank God for the people in our church. Paul is giving thanks because these people have persevered against persecution and other challenges.
The church today isn’t outwardly persecuted, but there is a sharp cultural movement that goes against mainstream churches. And much criticism comes from within the church. God desires to have churches doing his work well in our neighborhoods, towns, cities and nation. How does that happen?
We in the church must begin by being people of healing and reconciliation. That begins within our own walls with prayer and thanking God for one another.
In Acts we see how Paul is frustrated with the church in Thessalonica. He compliments the church at Berea and criticizes the church at Thessalonica.
But now, the church seems to have changed. The Holy Spirit must have done some powerful work here to cause the church to become stronger and more in tune with God’s work.
Might Paul and others have prayed for this to happen, and God responded?
How’s your church? May your church live in the Spirit of God to bring people into a life with God.


Pause and Consider: how you can pray for your church today.

November 24, 2011 Come, Lord Jesus!

Come, Lord Jesus!
Read 1 Thessalonians 3-4

1 Thess 4:16-18 For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. 18 Therefore encourage each other with these words.

I CAN’T WAIT. I wish it were right now. End of pain, sorrow, worry, fatigue, dieting, finances—an eternal joy with Jesus forever is mine because I trust him as my Lord and Savior!
Does that get you excited? Do you think of this great promise when everything around you seems to be crumbling? I usually don’t. I focus on the trouble and don’t see the triumph. I desire material comfort and neglect Jesus’ promise of eternal joy.
I know. You want life to be good. You want things to be in order and your future secure.
Well it is! All is in order because God is on his throne, and the victory is his. Your future is secure because Jesus conquered death. He is Lord of Heaven and earth.
What else do you want?


Pause and Consider: how earthly life is in order when your heavenly life is secure.

November 23, 2011 Delightful Love to Share

Delightful Love to Share
Read 1 Thessalonians 1-2

1 Thess 2:8 We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us.

ONE DAY, I was walking by a building where a lady in my church works. Almost past the building, I heard a voice call my name. I turned to see her come out the door to say hello and to give me a hug.
Wow! Did I ever feel Jesus’ love! In her voice and her attitude she expressed a delight to see me and acknowledge me. She took time and made an effort to bring a moment of joy into my life.
I had over a mile to finish my walk home, and along the way I wondered at God’s magnificent love. And I was also sad that so many people miss his love.
Contemplate for a moment what Jesus has done for you. Just as you were walking by “his place”, he came out the door and called your name. He put his arms around you. You noticed his hands had nail holes in them and scars were on his face. He held you a moment, and said, “I delight in you.”
A smile came on your face. You felt warmth and peace. You just knew you had strength to get through the next day, and your worries melted into the warmth of his embrace.
Yes, God the Son delights in you. Go to someone. Look them in the eye and ask with a delight in your heart how they are doing. Let them know how much you—and he—love them.


Pause and Consider:how you can show delightful love to someone.

November 22, 2011 Gifts to Bless

Gifts to Bless
Read Colossians

Col 3:12 Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.

GOD has brought to you and your household a huge bag of gifts. As you open the boxes you discover compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. You are surprised and happy for the gifts. But you’re a bit unsure. So you ask the Father, who gave them to you, “Are all of these for me? What am I to do with them?”
And his response would be, “Yes, my child, these are for you. I love you and want to give you the best things in life. Put them on and wear these gifts. They will enrich your life and the lives of those around you.”
As he leaves to deliver his gifts to others, you try on humility. When you do, you realize you have been wrong to be so demanding of others. You put on forgiveness, and you think of someone who hurt you last week with unkind words. Now you pick up the phone to let them know you care for them.
A bit later you try on goodness and compassion, and they fit perfectly. Your thoughts turn to helping your neighbor who is a single parent.
When you put on patience someone at work needs a bit of your time, and you listen to his needs. You kindly offer to pray with him, and he is comforted.
Yes, God has brought gifts to us. Will you clothe yourself in them? They will enrich your life and help people know the Great Giver.


Pause and Consider: what’s in your box today?

November 21, 2011 Cleaning the Drawer

Cleaning the Drawer
Read Philippians

Phil 3:8 For his sake I have thrown everything away…
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Phil 3:10 All I want is to know Christ and to experience the power of his resurrection, to share in his sufferings and become like him in his death.

I WAS just thinking about a drawer in my desk. You probably have one like mine. It has a “few” papers that I put there to temporarily store. Temporary has extended into several months, almost a year, and I really need to clean it out. But it’s easier to focus on other things—even taking a nap. But I really want to clean and organize the drawer. Why don’t I?
Our spiritual lives are cluttered with temporary things, aren’t they? We come across a doubt here and there because we don’t understand God’s Word. Or we want to get our kids to Sunday school and go to church, but oh, we just can’t seem to get out of bed on Sunday morning. We all know life can be more “with” God. But clutter gets in the way.
How do we clean the clutter and open our spirit more “cleanly” to the Holy Spirit? Paul did so by “throwing everything away”. He’s turned his life to focusing on removing the clutter and totally trusting Christ because he knows that kind of life is the best kind of life.
With the clutter gone, he is able to know the power of Jesus’ resurrection is all that matters. He can grow more like Jesus and more to love Jesus.


Pause and Consider: what clutter needs to go?

november 20, 2011 Pray for Words

Pray for Words
Read Ephesians 6

Eph 6:19-20 Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.

IN THE book of Acts, Luke, the historical writer, records the Apostle Paul narrowly escaping death from angry mobs as they violently objected to his preaching the Gospel. Luke also records Paul’s bold testimony to the Jews in Jerusalem and his ministry to the Gentiles in an argument with the Apostle Peter, Jesus’ “rock” of faith. One would think Paul lives his faith without fear.
But his words here show his humanity. This powerful preacher and tireless worker for Christ needs something much more powerful to keep him going. He needs prayer to be sure he speaks the Gospel correctly. And he needs prayer to be fearless in his preaching.
Preachers need our prayers. Those who are serious in their love for Jesus have a deep passion to preach his love, his justice and his salvation clearly and always true. They want to stand above ridicule and apathy to raise hearts to love Jesus as they do.
Godly preachers want to get it right. Their hearts yearn for Jesus’ victory in a world ruled by sin’s defeat. Pray for them. Pray for their hearts and their words. Pray for their love in Jesus and their power in the Spirit.
And pray for your own words as you speak of Jesus to those who need to know.


Pause and Consider: Paul needed prayer. So does your pastor. So do you.

November 19 Friend or Lord?

Friend or Lord?
Read Ephesians 5

Eph 5:10 and find out what pleases the Lord.

WE MUST stop here. Don’t go anywhere. Sit down. Think about what you want to do today. Think about what your heart is telling you to do today. Is there any conflict?
I have conflict. I think about prayer—the Lord wants me to pray, to connect with him. But my heart’s not in it right now, and I put it off until it never happens.
The Lord turns my heart to give some money to someone in need, but I make excuses and put it off until it never happens. The Lord wants me to call a friend to check in on his challenge with work. But I make excuses and put it off until it never happens.
What’s your Lord telling you? I mean, your LORD. Yes, we call Jesus, “Lord” but say “Later.” or “Not for me, not now, when I get around to it, when I feel like it, when the time’s right, not ever, Lord, Jesus.”
The reality in our response is that Jesus really isn’t our “Lord”, is he? He’s simply an adviser, a confidant, a listening ear, and someone who will forgive our sins. We don’t really have to “find out what pleases the Lord” and really do it, do we?


Pause and Consider: the meaning of the word “Lord” to you.

November 18 A Full Life Process

A Full Life Journey
Read Ephesians 4

Eph 4:11-13 It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, 12 to prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up 13 until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.

ARE YOU looking for change in your life? Take some time today to read all of Ephesians 4. I pray you will see how Jesus offers gifts to people who will help you “to be made new in the attitude of your minds; 24 and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness” (Eph 4:23-24).

When Jesus returned to Heaven, he continued his ministry through the Holy Spirit. The Spirit has gifted some people to evangelize, some to pastor and some to teach. Those who have received those gifts are available to you to help you know Jesus more.
Knowing Jesus more is a life journey. As you “see” and “hear” him in the Gospels, you will see how he changes your life. From the time of Jesus’ disciples beginning their ministry to today, the Gospel has transformed lives from sadness to gladness, from despair to hope, from hate to love, from harmful habits to life-giving labors of love.
Pause for a moment, and it’s likely you’ll think of several people who can help you get to know the transforming Jesus’ more personally. Give one a call. Study the Bible with a gifted teacher.
Be on a life journey to live in the fullness of Jesus.


Pause and Consider: education is a process and so is getting to know Jesus.

November 17 His Perfect Plan

His Perfect Plans
Read Ephesians 3

Eph 3:17-19 And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge — that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

I HEARD a story of someone who had three graduate schools accept her application. Two offered to pay for her education. A third didn’t. Because she trusts God, she prayed about the right school. He guided her to the third school that had no offer of money.
But as she followed her Lord, He blessed her. It turned out the school had a program in a research project specific to her interests and experience. This program offered to pay her tuition, and it also pays her a salary and health benefits, too!
What’s the point? When Paul speaks of being “rooted and established in love” he is writing about Jesus’ love gift of eternal life to mankind. When you know with your heart that Jesus loves you and died for you, this “measure of the fullness of God” will release in you the power of Jesus’ wide, high, long and deep love in you.
The grad student went to that power to guide her way. As she trusted Jesus’ power, she was at peace when the choice seemed a disadvantage. But God had something perfectly planned for her. God will bless you with his perfect plans, and you will rejoice in his blessings.


Pause and Consider: that the power of the cross is for you.

November 16 Approved for Entry

Approved for Entry
Read Ephesians 2

Eph 2:19-22 Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God's people and members of God's household, 20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. 21 In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. 22 And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.

HAVE you ever known someone who has become a naturalized citizen of the United States? This is a marvelous transformation for the person. He or she has come to this country seeking a better life. They have found a job, received proper credentials to live here, and gone to classes to learn about the United States.
When the big day comes, the immigrant is approved for entry as a citizen. Big smiles come to the face and heart of the new citizen. He or she is now united with the United States. They can vote and participate in the democracy. They have all the rights of citizenship. And they have the responsibilities of citizenship. In essence they have their new country in their heart. U.S. citizenship is part of their being.
And so it is the same with our citizenship with Christ. Thank God that his Spirit has opened the way for us to come into this “building”, the Kingdom of God, that Christ has “built”. Thank God his Spirit lives in you, and you be at home in God’s dwelling.


Pause and Consider: how good it is to belong to the Kingdom of God.

november 15, 2011 Alive for God

Alive for Your Lord
Read Ephesians 1

Eph 1:1 This letter is from Paul, chosen by the will of God to be an apostle of Christ Jesus.

I WONDER how Paul felt when he wrote those words. I can picture him, quill in hand, sitting at his desk, scratching out these words. He looks at them and thinks, “Wow. Is it really possible God has chosen me? Am I really the same guy who dragged Christians from their homes? Am I the one who urged the crowd to stone Stephen?”
In one way Paul was that man—physically. In another way, he was not that man at all. He was born again, totally changed. Paul became spiritually alive as Jesus’ Spirit dwelled deep within his soul. Paul understood the true meaning of chosen and God’s will to mean his life was new, and his life belonged to his Lord.
How often do you say, “Lord, Jesus”? Do your words express your awe that God would choose you? In “Lord, Jesus.” do you consider God, the Father, has chosen you to belong to His Son?
As you say, “Lord, Jesus.” please understand that this relationship with the Savior of the world begins with God’s choosing, and it changes your life. In that changed life, you are willing to pray, “Your will be done.” to express your preparation to live with a new-born attitude. And that attitude will cause you to “seek first the kingdom of God” (Matthew 6:33) to know what to do with and in your life.
Yes, God’s choosing is a remarkable gift. Be in awe of the gift. Be in awe of the One who gives. Seek his will and live in his will.


Pause and Consider: how you will act, knowing you “chosen by the will of God” to live for your Lord.

November 14, 2011 Life on the UP Side

Life on the Up Side
Read Galatians 3 – 6

Galatians 3:3-4 Are you so foolish? After beginning with the Spirit, are you now trying to attain your goal by human effort?

WHO guides your life? Is it the Holy Spirit? Or is it you? The Holy Spirit is a great communicator, carrying God’s instructions to you. Jesus sent the Spirit to comfort you, direct you and to open your heart to his teachings. He is a great help in time of need.
But what happens when life is less challenging or when things are going well? Do you still rely on the Spirit’s guidance?
Perhaps too often the “good times” can cause you to forget who is in charge of your life. When life is good, we tend to ignore what he has to say, thinking we don’t need him, and we can “do life” on our own. We forget where our blessings come from. We think it is because of our own talents, our own goodness, and our own work that our life is good. Yes, good does come from these things, but who gives you the talent, your good attitude, and the work to do?
As you go about each day whether life is smooth or whether it’s rough, ask the Holy Spirit to guide you. Ask him to lead you and to give you the desire to follow his leading to be true to God the Father and Son.
Life has its ups and downs. Trusting the voice of the Spirit will keep your life on the up side.


Pause and Consider: the foundation of your activity each day. How do you know what to say and do?

november 12, 2011 Be Jesus' Own

Be Jesus’ Own
Read 2 Corinthians 12 – 13

2 Corinthians 13:8-9 For we cannot do anything against the truth, but only for the truth. 9 We are glad whenever we are weak, but you are strong; and our prayer is for your perfection.

PAUL’S letter to the church in Corinth is a relevant, contemporary letter to us today. The church was experiencing many challenges. Although they had heard the Gospel, had committed their lives to Christ, and had formed a church, they had not completely left their “old” lives behind.
Jealousy, pride, gossiping, and other sins divided the people and kept the church from living in the blessing that was available to them through Jesus Christ.
What makes it so difficult to be at peace with one another? Paul says, “We cannot oppose the truth”.
In the church in Corinth people opposed the truth. And we oppose it in the church today. We have strong desires to live in our own ways. Being a unified, joyful church is only possible when its members truly look to Jesus as Lord. To do that, we have to be “weak”, to let go of “our own” and become “Jesus’ own”.
Giving up our own way for Jesus’ way may seem weak to the world, but it takes strength of trust to faithfully follow Christ into his new way.
Paul urged the church in Corinth to give up their own strength, their old ways of living, for Christ’s strength. Then they would mature in their relationship with Christ and each other.
Give your strength to Jesus. Submit to his love and grow into a deeper, more real relationship with him. When you do, you’ll grow deeper in your love for others. And you will be at peace in your heart and in your church.


Pause and Consider: the “old way” you need to give up.

november 11, 2101 1 Out of 10

1 Out of 10
Read 2 Corinthians 8 – 11

2 Cor 8:3-5 Of their own free will 4 they begged us and pleaded for the privilege of having a part in helping God's people in Judea. 5 It was more than we could have hoped for! First they gave themselves to the Lord; and then, by God's will they gave themselves to us as well.

MONEY’S A big deal, isn’t it? It must be. I think one of the most often spoken complaints against the church is, “All they do is ask for my money.”
There are two realities in this complaint: First, the church wouldn’t need to “always” ask if people in the church had the heart of giving as Paul describes in 2 Corinthians. And second, it’s not “my” money.
Put 10 one-dollar bills on the counter. Look at them a minute. Where did they come from? They came from the work God gave you to do. They came from God.
Now, how many of those 10 one-dollar bills does God ask for in return? 1. He gives you 10. Put 9 in your pocket. The one left goes back to God. The church merely asks for one out of ten, and yet we complain.
I don’t get it. Do you?


Pause and Consider: how tithing is trusting.

November 10, 2011 A Delighful Way to Live

A Delightful Way to Live
Read 2 Corinthians 6-7

2 Cor 6:18-17:1 “I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters.” 17:1 Since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.

I INVITE you to take a minute or two and dwell on the promise in 6:18: “I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters.”
Have you stopped and considered the power and magnificence of God’s promise? Creator, eternal, almighty God promises to relate to you as a perfect father. He promises to call you his child. He says he is ready and willing to be one who loves you when you’re unlovable, to guide you when you lose direction, to forgive you when you do wrong, to show you the way to a life of joy, to offer you eternal life with him.
Do you feel God, the Father, offering his love to you? Do you have a picture of him offering his hand to you?
Go ahead, take his love and take his hand. Put your hand in his and walk with him to a place that is different from the world.
He wants to bring you to a place where you experience his holiness—his perfection. He wants you to be holy, too, away from the things that harm you. He will show you how to live under his protection.
God has come to you as a loving Father. He wants to be your God. Feel his good pleasure and his protection.


Pause and Consider: how God is totally devoted to you.

November 9, 2011 New Forever

New Forever
Read 2 Corinthians 3 – 5

2 Corinthians 5:16-17 so from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. 17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!

WE LIKE new things, don’t we? There’s excitement, almost a sense of accomplishment when we get a new car, buy or build a new home, make a new friend or enjoy a new restaurant. We feel something different. Something new has been added to our life, and we feel a degree of happiness and satisfaction.
Paul says something even more dramatic happens when we understand and accept Jesus Christ as Lord, as the promised Messiah. He says we are a “new creation”.
That’s a pretty amazing statement! “New creation” means an entire makeover, inside and out. What we once were, we are no longer. What we used to be God has made new.
What does that mean? A new car—it’s dent free and mechanically correct. A new shirt—it smells good and is unwrinkled. A new pair of shoes—shiny and attractive. A new house—a dream come true.
Yes, a life in God’s newness is correct, unwrinkled, shiny, attractive and a great place to dwell. It’s not perfect. New car’s need fixing. New shirts need ironing. New shoes need polishing. A new house need care. But when cared for properly everything new lasts a long time.
When you care for your new life with God properly, your newness will last forever.


Pause and Consider: you are new in Christ—every day.  

November 8, 2011 Thanks to God

Thanks Be to God
Read 2 Corinthians 1-2

2 Corinthians 2:14 But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of him.

QUESTIONS abound in our culture. And there are always questions about God. Who is he? Where did he come from? Does he really care about me? Why doesn’t he just make everything right, so people don’t have to suffer? Is he real?
The answers have been coming from many places throughout history. Some attack God. Some defend him. So what do we who love God say in response?
These words from Paul are a key to our response. Note how Paul displays a deep trust in God, “who leads us in triumphal procession in Christ”. The essence to understanding God and answering these challenging questions is to go to “the fragrance of the knowledge of him”.
Knowing God and believing on him can hold an incorruptible sweetness in our minds. Knowing that God is love and trusting God to fulfill his promises brings to us quiet above life’s tumult. Going to him in prayer in our deepest needs and greatest joys can fill us with a wondrous peace and exaltation. Knowing God brings sweetness to our soul.
People who keep asking questions have an emptiness only God can fill. They strive to know everything but God, and they are never satisfied.
Let’s help them know that we walk in “triumphal procession in Christ” that when they open their minds to know God, they, too, will savor the fragrance of God’s sweet salvation.


Pause and Consider: how sweet it is to follow the God who saves you.

november 7, 2011 Do You Prophesy?

Do You Prophesy?
Read 1 Corinthians 13 – 16

1 Corinthians 14:4 everyone who prophesies speaks to men for their strengthening, encouragement and comfort.

DO you prophesy? Before you answer, “No.” let’s consider what “prophesy” means. You may think it means to foretell the future. That is one part of this gift from the Holy Spirit. But more often prophesying is the Holy Spirit coming to you to give you words and actions that teach people about God.
The Apostle Paul defines prophesying around comfort, encouragement and teaching others about God. Some of you are gifted to teach with your mouth. Some of you teach of God with acts of comfort, and some show God to people with encouraging words and prayer.
So I’ll ask the question again, “Do you prophesy?” If you see someone around you who is hurting, are you inclined to speak comfort to them? Are you ready to stop what you’re doing and listen to someone’s needs? Do you offer to pray for people? This is prophesying.
Prophesy. Tell of and do God’s wonderful Word.


Pause and Consider: what a precious gift this is to help others know their Savior.

november 6, 2011 Stay with God

Stay with God
Read 1 Corinthians 10 – 12

1 Corinthians 10:12-13 So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall! 13 No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.

COMPLACENCY can happen quickly as we walk with God. Life can go well as we diligently try to be obedient to our loving Father and Savior. We receive blessings from our Lord, and consider life to be good.
And because life is good, we might stop spending as much time in prayer. We may not read the Bible as often, or we may skip a few Sundays at church.
Gradually temptation is more appealing. We look at the world less through our Savior’s eyes and more through our own. And the “world” doesn’t look so bad. Suddenly it is easier to step on the path that opposes God. Then issues arise, and we wonder, “Where’s God?”
Guess what? He’s right where you left him. He’s wondering “Where are you? I thought you liked being with me.” Then we look back. And we see what happened. We come to understand that we carelessly fell into a life that does not walk on the path he has planned for us.
Building and keeping a “good friend” relationship with someone else takes time, communication, and mutual understanding. It takes keeping in touch.
Our relationship with God is the same. He’s always there to keep you safe and bless you as you love him and follow him. Stay in touch with your Father, Savior and Spirit. Temptation is strong.


Pause and Consider: You need your God’s strength to resist evil and to enjoy your walk with him.

november 5, 2011 Show God's Freedom

Show God’s Freedom
Read 1 Corinthians 7 – 9

1 Corinthians 8:9 Be careful, however, that the exercise of your freedom does not become a stumbling block to the weak.

OUR God is a wonderful, loving God, isn’t he? He gives you himself, freeing you from sin’s shackles that you may live a full and free life with him. He calls out to you to come and walk with him as you arise each morning to step into life. You have many opportunities each day to feel his good pleasure on your life.
Freedom is a wonderful thing when you choose to use it wisely. But there is a sad reality in the church.
When you look at how many Christians live, sadly you will find very few differences between their thinking and behavior and that of the non-Christian culture. This has to be a great heartache for God. In essence people who say, “I believe in God.” and then live their own way are telling the world, “God’s nothing special.”
Please be careful of what you say and do. It’s not about you. It’s about your Savior, who died for you. It’s about your Father, who created you. It’s about the Holy Spirit, who lives within you.
God loves you so much he unshackled the bonds of sin and gave you freedom. Use your freedom well. Show your friends what freedom from sin truly looks like.


Pause and Consider: how important it is to correctly show your Lord to the world.

November 4, 2011 Peace for You

Peace for You
Read 1 Corinthians 3 – 6

1 Corinthians 6:7-8 The very fact that you have lawsuits among you means you have been completely defeated already. Why not rather be wronged? Why not rather be cheated? 8 Instead, you yourselves cheat and do wrong, and you do this to your brothers.

DO YOU live in a world of conflict or a world of peace? At first glance, you may think this is a silly question. After all, are we not surrounded with conflict? Regardless of where we turn, we see a world broken with conflict, from international wars to private disputes. In secular society and in the church, there is no break from conflict.
Or is there?
What would happen if we took to heart these words from Paul? He was very disturbed that there were lawsuits among people in the church. He saw it as a rejection of the Gospel, of the fellowship and peace Jesus’ Good News offers. People were in conflict because they were not willing to submit to and love others.
Yes, when someone wrongs you, perhaps there is a time to stand and fight. But more often, I think, there is a time to let go and forgive. Jesus was “attacked” verbally and spiritually wherever he ministered. But he let go of the accusations, and he let go of the ridicule. He looked to the Father, and he held on to the Gospel.
This is what Paul is talking about here. We can choose conflict, or we can choose peace. Conflict contaminates your life. Peace cleanses your life. Jesus came to clean the conflict away and replace it with his peace. This is for you.


Pause and Consider: how you resolve conflict in your life.  

november 3, 2011 God's Love Letter

God’s Love Letter
1 Corinthians 1 – 2

1 Corinthians 1:2 To the church of God in Corinth, to those sanctified in Christ Jesus and called to be holy, together with all those everywhere who call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ — their Lord and ours.

THE Apostle Paul wrote this letter to the church in Corinth. And he wrote it to someone else. He wrote it to you.
What? You weren’t alive then? You’ve never been to Corinth? You didn’t know Paul, and he didn’t know you?
It doesn’t matter. God appointed Paul to tell the Gospel of Jesus Christ to the world, and the world is still here. You are part of the world. God gave you life and put you here. He called you to himself, just as he called those believers in Corinth. And this message is for “all those everywhere who call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
When you understand this letter to be directly to you, I hope that this letter takes on a deeper and more personal meaning for you.
I also hope that you begin to see the entire Bible as a letter from God to you personally.
God’s Holy Word is a message of love that demonstrates how God personally gave himself through Christ Jesus to the world across cultures and time. He gave himself so that we might know him and be saved through him.
So what should you do with the rest of this letter to the Corinthians? What might happen if you approach God’s Word as his love letter of truth to you?


Pause and Consider: what a special privilege it is to hear from God.

November 2, 2011 Unsung Hereoes

Unsung Heroes
Read Romans 16

Rom 16:3-4 Greet Priscilla and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus. 4 They risked their lives for me. Not only I but all the churches of the Gentiles are grateful to them.

WHEN YOU list the many remarkable people in scripture, do you include Priscilla and Aquila? You should. Look at who they are and what they’ve done.
Paul calls them, “fellow workers in Christ Jesus”. That is quite an honor, isn’t it? This great Apostle who has severely labored, debated, and been humiliated for his teaching of the Lord Jesus calls them his “fellow workers”. They are his equals in ministry as they have labored alongside Paul.
No, we don’t have any of Priscilla’s and Aquila’s written words, and we don’t know what they have precisely done. But we do know they have sacrificed themselves for the Kingdom of God, working with and risking their lives for Paul and Jesus’ church.
“They risked their lives for me.” is a remarkable statement. To risk their lives, Priscilla and Aquila, this wife-husband team, might have stood by Paul when the mobs tried to stone him. They might have traveled with him to new territory and to help plant churches. They might have stood against persecution and mistreatment because they stood for the Gospel.
Priscilla and Aquila left a wonderful legacy of faith and service didn’t they?


Pause and Consider: how faithful service sometimes requires we risk, even give our lives for the Gospel.

November 1, 2011 Jesus' Calendar

Jesus’ Calendar
Read Romans 15

Romans 15:17 Therefore I glory in Christ Jesus in my service to God.

WHEN our kids were young, and when all the schedules and priorities had to be met, the natural thing to do was to determine who would do what, and when it would be done. Being a parent means guiding the activity of a household, determining the priorities, and confirming that all things get done.
We had a planning calendar on the refrigerator to be sure all was in order. Life got a little edgy when people didn’t do what they needed to do. The family’s needs drove all of us to particular activities. When we each did our part, family life was good.
The Apostle Paul seeks to define himself as clearly as he can as a member of Christ Jesus’ “family”. He tells the Romans in this sentence that he is doing his part, and Christ Jesus is the one who motivates him.
Everything Paul has done to minister to Jews and Gentiles has been the result of what Jesus has done to him and through him. Jesus has set the calendar with his Gospel message, and Paul gives glory to him as the catalyst for everything he does.
When you consider how you spend your time, is Jesus Christ your catalyst? When you mark your calendar for the week, do you mark down what Jesus has marked on your heart to do?


Pause and Consider: what’s on your to-do list?  

October 31, 2011 Eternal Meal

Eternal Meal
Read Romans 14

Romans 14:17-18 For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit, 18 because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and approved by men.

CHURCH SUPPERS, potlucks, or whatever you want to call them are pretty popular occasions. People love to bring their favorite foods-the recipes they love to make. And people enjoy eating and drinking together. These are good things. Jesus liked these events. He did some great ministry while enjoying a meal.
But there’s more to the Kingdom of God than that, isn’t there? It would be wonderful to see the church potluck be a place to invite the homeless and hungry in for a meal. It could be a place to invite people who are lonely and discouraged. It could be a place of righteousness, peace and joy.
Proper eating and drinking are the foundations of physical health. And a meal can be a means to a person’s spiritual health. When you invite someone to a meal, their heart is grateful. And you have the opportunity to speak to them about them. You can ask how they’re doing. You can show Jesus’ love and tender mercy.
You can even tell the person of Jesus’ righteousness that saves them to a life in heaven to feast with him forever.


Pause and Consider: who to invite to a meal. 

October 30, 2011 it's Now

It’s Now
Read Romans 13

Rom 13:11 And do this, understanding the present time. The hour has come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed.

ONE of the families in our church came to live in the area for only 2 years. Because they are a family gifted in many ways and eager to use their gifts for the Gospel, their short stay and their willingness to serve create the perfect picture of what Paul is talking about here.
For you see, they understood that God has awakened them to the Gospel, and they have but a short time to make an impact for Christ in this community. There isn’t time to “figure things out” and to weigh the pros and cons of choosing a church and making commitments. There is no time to hold back—there is only time to go forward, to say, “Here I am.”
As Christians, we need to live life this way. What if you only had 2 more years to live? Or 2 more months? Or 2 more days?
If you pray, read the Bible and/or go to church, it is likely God is talking to you in some way. It could be last Sunday’s sermon. It could be a verse you read this morning. It could be a thought you had while you prayed. It could be a Christian friend or series of friends saying something to you.
My question to you is: Are you urgent about what you hear? Do not wait until it is convenient for you to respond. The time is now—when God calls.


Pause and Consider: what you need to do now.

October 29, 2011 A Trust Builder

A Trust Builder
Read Romans 12

Romans 12:1 Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God — this is your spiritual act of worship.

WHAT does it mean to “offer your bodies as living sacrifices”? I’ve been thinking a good deal about sacrifice lately.
Sacrifice is a big deal with God. In the very first sacrifice in Genesis 4, God preferred Abel’s sacrifice to Cain’s. Abel’s sacrifice was the image of the blood sacrifice that God would require of the Hebrews for centuries. And the blood sacrifice is what God required of his Son for you.
Sacrifice in God’s view is a way to turn your heart to see him. If, for example, we don’t sacrifice our time, our Spiritual gifts or our money to God, we have no opportunity to truly trust him.
For example, years ago, I began to “sacrifice” my time to read the Bible every day. As I gave my time to know God’s Word, I began to know him. And each day in the last 3 decades, I have grown into a deeper, trusting relationship with God. I shudder to think what I would have missed had I not set aside that time with him.
If we don’t sacrifice to God, we cannot experience his giving back to us. We will not grow into a place where we know him at all, much less totally trust Him. The more we release what we have to him, the more we trust him when we see how he gives back to us.
Sacrifice is a trust-builder. Be willing to give what you have to God and watch him generously give back to you.


Pause and Consider: that all you have has come from God. It is more than appropriate to give some back to him.

october 28, 2011 Your Life's Purpose

Your Life’s Purpose
Read Romans 11

Romans 11:36 For everything comes from him and exists by his power and is intended for his glory. All glory to him forever! Amen.

ARE YOU wondering what is your life’s purpose? Then dwell on this verse. You are among the “everything” that “comes from him”. And you “exist by his power”. And this is so because you are “intended for his glory”.
A life of purpose is pleasing the One who created you and showing him to those who don’t know him. God wants you to live the type of life that shows those around you how good and gracious is he. God wants you, in your activities, your attitude and your words to let people know of his grace that brings salvation to all who believe in him.
How do you show God to those you meet each day? The key thing is this: live as closely as you humanly can to God’s ways. There are many, many resources today that tell you how you can have happiness, peace, money, a better job and more friends. But nothing is as true and lasting as the Word of God.
When God says, “Love your neighbor as yourself.” He means to actually do this—not to simply think about it. He means to serve someone in trouble; he means to forgive someone; he means to give a listening ear. And the list goes on.
When you live according to God’s Word, you bring him into the reality of daily living. People around you see that he is indeed real and alive. And God’s name will be praised and glorified.
That’s your life’s purpose.


Pause and Consider: how you can make this purpose real in your life.

October 26, 2011 Deep Passion

Deep Passion
Read Romans 9

Romans 9:1-4 I speak the truth in Christ — I am not lying, my conscience confirms it in the Holy Spirit— 2 I have great sorrow and unceasing anguish in my heart. 3 For I could wish that I myself were cursed and cut off from Christ for the sake of my brothers, those of my own race, 4 the people of Israel.

WOW! Is Paul passionate for his people, or what? I can’t understand such a deep love! What? Offer my soul to God to trade Heaven for Hell so a group of people would be saved? I couldn’t do that.
But Paul expresses this! God has placed in Paul a deep, deep passion for the Jews who have not yet proclaimed faith in Jesus. That’s why Paul is able to endure many hardships—shipwrecks, beatings, jail, deprivation and ill-health—for the sake of his own people to know the Gospel. He desperately wants all to know Jesus as Lord of their lives.
Where did that passion come from? I think each of Christ’s apostles developed this passion for God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. They had the opportunity to become intimate with Jesus. Jesus showed them his love by going to the cross and coming back from the grave. They saw the reality in the flesh of our Lord’s triumph over death!
So the apostles understood more completely than any of us can how real and true and perfect God’s love is for us. That’s why they were willing and able to give their lives entirely for the Gospel.
Can we be like this? Only when we come to know Jesus in a deeply intimate way. Study the Word. Pray and listen.
Then go and do. Jesus will become real to you, too.


Pause and Consider: where you are most passionate. It’s easy to get involved in the things related to that passion, isn’t it?