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
Saturday, December 24, 2011
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.
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.
Friday, December 23, 2011
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.
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.
Thursday, December 22, 2011
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.
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.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
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.
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.
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
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.
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.
Monday, December 19, 2011
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.
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.
Sunday, December 18, 2011
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.
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.
Saturday, December 17, 2011
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.
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.
Friday, December 16, 2011
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.
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.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
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.
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.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
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.
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.
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
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.
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.
Monday, December 12, 2011
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?
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?
Saturday, December 10, 2011
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.
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.
Friday, December 9, 2011
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.
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.
Thursday, December 8, 2011
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.
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.
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
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.
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.
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
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?
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?
Monday, December 5, 2011
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.
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.
Sunday, December 4, 2011
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.
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.
Saturday, December 3, 2011
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.
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.
Friday, December 2, 2011
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?
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?
Thursday, December 1, 2011
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.
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.
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