Today's full One Year Bible readings:
Exodus 13:17-15:18 ~ Matthew 21:23-46 ~ Psalm 26:1-12 ~ Proverbs 6:16-19
Like many other ancient psalms, Psalm 26 is both helpful and difficult to express back to the LORD. It reveals the differences between those who are faithful and those who are not, those who are righteous and those who are wicked. The psalm starts this way...
"Vindicate me, O LORD, for I have led a blameless life; I have trusted in the LORD without wavering. Test me, O LORD, and try me, examine my heart and my mind; for your love is ever before me, and I walk continually in your truth. " (Psalm 26:1-3)
How transparent can one be; and, yet, how dependent on Him must you and I remain? Do our works make us righteous, or is it all the grace of God?
The new testament says it this way, "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast." (Ephesians 2:8-9)
Remember, that even though we are saved by grace through faith, we must still seek to glorify Christ with our entire lives. We are not "finished", "done", or "off the hook". We have the God-given and God-empowered responsibility to magnify the glory and grace of God with the fullness of our being every moment of every day for the rest of our existence.
Notice that grace is not merely a new testament or new covenant reality; God himself proclaimed it to Moses this way, saying, "The LORD, the LORD, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin." (Exodus 34:6-7)
Today, as an act of worship, surrender your all to Him and "walk continually in [His] truth." (Psalm 26:3)
Showing posts with label Ephesians. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Ephesians. Show all posts
Sunday, February 01, 2009
Walk Continually In His Truth
Friday, November 14, 2008
Surrounded By Witnesses
Today's full reading: Hebrews 11:32-12:13
"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart." (Hebrews 12:1-3 NIV)
The writer of Hebrews knows how to arrest the attention of his readers. He knows his audience; these are people who have studied and memorized much of the known history of their nation. Following the incredible account of faithful men and women described in chapter eleven as those whom the world was not worthy of, he concludes with a powerful exhortation to throw off the sin that trips us up, fix our eyes of Jesus, and run the Christian race.
Today, as an act of worship, heed these words carefully. What sin or habit do you need to throw off give up? When was the last time you fixed your eyes of Jesus? Ask yourself, "What WOULD Jesus do?", "What did Jesus do?"
Run the race!
"For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." (Ephesians 2:10 NIV)
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Amazing Grace
Today's full reading: Titus 3:1-15
"At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life." (Titus 3:3-7 NIV)
I love how Paul uses even the closing words of his letter to remind Titus that we have been saved because of his grace and not because of the righteous things we have done. Having understood this truth, we should live radically different lives in the way we treat others. We have been shown mercy; we have been forgiven. Therefore, we should be full of grace toward others.
Showing grace is totally counter-cultural; it's scandalous. I am not saying that we ought to look over the willful sins of those who have heard the truth and yet live in total rebellion toward it. No, in fact those people should be rebuked in love. We need to be gracious to the unlovable and undeserving.
Today, as an act of worship, show the love of God by offering grace others today who desperately need grace, yet may or may not realize it. Spend time thanking and praising God for saving us by his Grace.
"At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life." (Titus 3:3-7 NIV)
I love how Paul uses even the closing words of his letter to remind Titus that we have been saved because of his grace and not because of the righteous things we have done. Having understood this truth, we should live radically different lives in the way we treat others. We have been shown mercy; we have been forgiven. Therefore, we should be full of grace toward others.
Showing grace is totally counter-cultural; it's scandalous. I am not saying that we ought to look over the willful sins of those who have heard the truth and yet live in total rebellion toward it. No, in fact those people should be rebuked in love. We need to be gracious to the unlovable and undeserving.
Today, as an act of worship, show the love of God by offering grace others today who desperately need grace, yet may or may not realize it. Spend time thanking and praising God for saving us by his Grace.
"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast."
-Ephesians 2:8-9
-Ephesians 2:8-9
Wednesday, October 08, 2008
The Power of Words
Today's full reading: Colossians 3:18-4:18
"Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone." (Colossians 4:5-6 NIV)
Much has been said in recent days about the power of words. Consider this verse as you go about your conversations today. I firmly believe that there comes a point in nearly every meaningful conversation that a witness for Christ can be spoken. Christian speech should always be wholesome in order to strengthen a brother or sister, or display the grace of Christ to a lost world.
Today, as an act of worship, weigh your words carefully in every conversation. Ask the Lord to guide your tongue to honor him through every single word.
Here are a few more verses to consider on the subject.
"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." (Ephesians 4:29 NIV)
"But now you must rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips." (Colossians 3:8 NIV)
"Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving." (Ephesians 5:4 NIV)
"But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned." (Matthew 12:36-37 NIV)
"Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone." (Colossians 4:5-6 NIV)
Much has been said in recent days about the power of words. Consider this verse as you go about your conversations today. I firmly believe that there comes a point in nearly every meaningful conversation that a witness for Christ can be spoken. Christian speech should always be wholesome in order to strengthen a brother or sister, or display the grace of Christ to a lost world.
Today, as an act of worship, weigh your words carefully in every conversation. Ask the Lord to guide your tongue to honor him through every single word.
Here are a few more verses to consider on the subject.
"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." (Ephesians 4:29 NIV)
"But now you must rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips." (Colossians 3:8 NIV)
"Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving." (Ephesians 5:4 NIV)
"But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned." (Matthew 12:36-37 NIV)
"for, 'Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.' How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, 'How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!' Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ." (Romans 10:13-15,17 NIV)
Thursday, October 02, 2008
Everything a Loss Compared to Knowing Christ
Today's full reading: Philippians 3:4-21
"But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God and is by faith." (Philippians 3:7-9 NIV)
Paul had much to boast about in his "self-righteousness", at least in human terms. If righteousness could be attained by following the Old Testament law Paul would have been considered righteous by most Jews. Yet, he made the conscience decision not to boast in self but to boast in Christ. Why? Because Paul understood that following the Old Testament law only made temporary atonement for our sin, but Christ sacrifice served to purchase our atonement forever. Philippians chapter three is an amazing passage of scripture. It is worth the read.
Today, as an act of worship, praise God for offering us righteousness through Christ's sacrifice. Worship God for his free gift of salvation. Ask God to help you boast in him more and not in yourself.
"But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God and is by faith." (Philippians 3:7-9 NIV)
Paul had much to boast about in his "self-righteousness", at least in human terms. If righteousness could be attained by following the Old Testament law Paul would have been considered righteous by most Jews. Yet, he made the conscience decision not to boast in self but to boast in Christ. Why? Because Paul understood that following the Old Testament law only made temporary atonement for our sin, but Christ sacrifice served to purchase our atonement forever. Philippians chapter three is an amazing passage of scripture. It is worth the read.
Today, as an act of worship, praise God for offering us righteousness through Christ's sacrifice. Worship God for his free gift of salvation. Ask God to help you boast in him more and not in yourself.
Sunday, September 28, 2008
The Armor of God
Today's full reading: Ephesians 6:1-24
"Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints." (Ephesians 6:13-18 NIV)
If we are going to be effective in the ministry and work of the Lord then we must be continually mindful of the battle we are in and the armor we have been given.
Today, as an act of worship, thank God for giving us everything we need to serve his purposes in our generation.
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Make the Most of Every Opportunity
Today's full reading: Ephesians 5:1-33
"Be very careful, then, how you live— not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is. Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit. Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." (Ephesians 5:15-20 NIV)
This is an amazing chapter of scripture. It is so straight forward and applicable. I pray that you will receive it as I have today, with much sincerity and thankfulness.
Today, as an act of worship, embrace this word from the Lord and seek to be completely obedient.
Friday, September 26, 2008
Unwholesome Talk
Today's full reading: Ephesians4:17-32
"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." (Ephesians 4:29 NIV)
When we give our lives to Jesus Christ our language must be purified. It is not enough just to stop sinning by cutting out all unwholesome talk; we must specifically use our words to build others up, strengthening them and help them. Consider your words carefully at all times. This is necessary when dealing with those inside and outside the church. What we say about other Christians and the Church as a whole can go a long way in building someone's faith or tearing it down.
Today, as an act of worship, thank God for giving you a fresh start, a new day. Thank him for the influence he has giving you in the lives of other Christians and non-Christians. Ask him to give you wisdom to remove all unwholesome talk from your conversations and in its place fill it with authentic words of affirmation and edification.
"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." (Ephesians 4:29 NIV)
When we give our lives to Jesus Christ our language must be purified. It is not enough just to stop sinning by cutting out all unwholesome talk; we must specifically use our words to build others up, strengthening them and help them. Consider your words carefully at all times. This is necessary when dealing with those inside and outside the church. What we say about other Christians and the Church as a whole can go a long way in building someone's faith or tearing it down.
Today, as an act of worship, thank God for giving you a fresh start, a new day. Thank him for the influence he has giving you in the lives of other Christians and non-Christians. Ask him to give you wisdom to remove all unwholesome talk from your conversations and in its place fill it with authentic words of affirmation and edification.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Live a Life Worthy of the Calling
Today's full reading: Ephesians 4:1-16
"As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." (Ephesians 4:1-3 NIV)
Our lives are meant to honor the Lord in all things. One of the reasons I so appreciate Paul's letters is because they are in many ways straight forward and to the point. There is much practical insight that is given such as: be humble and gentle, be patient, bear with one another. I find these things easy to read yet often they are difficult to apply.
Today, as an act of worship, thank God for his Word. Ask him for help in applying it to your life. Make every effort to live in peace and unity with other believers.
"As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." (Ephesians 4:1-3 NIV)
Our lives are meant to honor the Lord in all things. One of the reasons I so appreciate Paul's letters is because they are in many ways straight forward and to the point. There is much practical insight that is given such as: be humble and gentle, be patient, bear with one another. I find these things easy to read yet often they are difficult to apply.
Today, as an act of worship, thank God for his Word. Ask him for help in applying it to your life. Make every effort to live in peace and unity with other believers.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
That You May Have Power
Today's full reading: Ephesians 3:1-21
"I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God." (Ephesians 3:16-19 NIV)
It is particularly interesting that Paul uses the word power so many times in this chapter of scripture. Paul has a deep faith in Christ and a sincere love for others. His passion to make much of Christ drove him to pray some bold prayers for the church like the one above.
Take a moment today to grasp the meaning of what he is praying for the Christ followers in Ephesus. He is praying that they may have power through the spirit in such a way that Christ may truly dwell within each of them and that they may have power to grasp the great love of God and be filled with the fullness of God. I want to echo Paul's prayer for you and me.
Today, as an act of worship, may we enter boldly into the Lord's presence and ask him to full us with his Spirit and reveal to us the depth of his love for us.
"I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God." (Ephesians 3:16-19 NIV)
It is particularly interesting that Paul uses the word power so many times in this chapter of scripture. Paul has a deep faith in Christ and a sincere love for others. His passion to make much of Christ drove him to pray some bold prayers for the church like the one above.
Take a moment today to grasp the meaning of what he is praying for the Christ followers in Ephesus. He is praying that they may have power through the spirit in such a way that Christ may truly dwell within each of them and that they may have power to grasp the great love of God and be filled with the fullness of God. I want to echo Paul's prayer for you and me.
Today, as an act of worship, may we enter boldly into the Lord's presence and ask him to full us with his Spirit and reveal to us the depth of his love for us.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Grace That is Greater
Today's full reading: Ephesians 2:1-22
"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." (Ephesians 2:8-10 NIV)
What a great reminder that we can never be good enough to earn our way to heaven. For the true Christ follower it is a sobering reality that most of the world lives in spiritual darkness and subscribes to the notion that if your good deed out weigh your bad deed you will be ok when you die.
Today, as an act of worship, thank God for his marvelous grace that takes away the punishment for our sin. Take a moment to intercede for those you know who do not believe in the grace of Christ.
Here is an article that I wrote back in May on this same subject: Why Work if We Are Saved By Grace.
"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." (Ephesians 2:8-10 NIV)
What a great reminder that we can never be good enough to earn our way to heaven. For the true Christ follower it is a sobering reality that most of the world lives in spiritual darkness and subscribes to the notion that if your good deed out weigh your bad deed you will be ok when you die.
Today, as an act of worship, thank God for his marvelous grace that takes away the punishment for our sin. Take a moment to intercede for those you know who do not believe in the grace of Christ.
Here is an article that I wrote back in May on this same subject: Why Work if We Are Saved By Grace.
Monday, September 22, 2008
Ephesians: That You May Know Him Better
Today we begin Paul's letter to the believers in Ephesus in our trek through the New Testament. This letter is quite amazing. We will take a steady pace. Here's an outline of our journey together. I encourage you to save this post or print it and keep it with your Bible wherever you have a daily quiet time.
Monday, September 22
Ephesians 1:1-23
Tuesday, September 23
Ephesians 2:1-22
Wednesday, September 24
Ephesians 3:1-21
Thursday, September 25
Ephesians 4:1-16
Friday, September 26
Ephesians 4:17-32
Saturday, September 27
Ephesians 5:1-33
Sunday, September 28
Ephesians 6:1-24
(Next Monday, September 29, we will begin Paul's letter to the believers in Philippi. It is going to be a great week in God's Word. Let's go!)
Today's full reading: Ephesians 1:1-23
"For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better." (Ephesians 1:15-17 NIV)
Paul begins his letter with a reminder of the true spiritual blessings held by the Ephesian believers followed by a sincere prayer of thankfulness. He then begins to pray some specific requests over the believers: "[may] God give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation." (1:17) The phrase Paul identifies as his purpose for such a prayer is what I am focusing on in my prayers today: "that you may know him better." (1:17) Is that your desire today?
Today, as an act of worship, draw near to God with a sincere desire to know him better. Thank him for the spiritual blessings he has given you. Voice a prayer for other believers that come to your mind. Ask God to give them a Spirit of wisdom and revelation that they may know him better.
Monday, September 22
Ephesians 1:1-23
Tuesday, September 23
Ephesians 2:1-22
Wednesday, September 24
Ephesians 3:1-21
Thursday, September 25
Ephesians 4:1-16
Friday, September 26
Ephesians 4:17-32
Saturday, September 27
Ephesians 5:1-33
Sunday, September 28
Ephesians 6:1-24
(Next Monday, September 29, we will begin Paul's letter to the believers in Philippi. It is going to be a great week in God's Word. Let's go!)
Today's full reading: Ephesians 1:1-23
"For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better." (Ephesians 1:15-17 NIV)
Paul begins his letter with a reminder of the true spiritual blessings held by the Ephesian believers followed by a sincere prayer of thankfulness. He then begins to pray some specific requests over the believers: "[may] God give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation." (1:17) The phrase Paul identifies as his purpose for such a prayer is what I am focusing on in my prayers today: "that you may know him better." (1:17) Is that your desire today?
Today, as an act of worship, draw near to God with a sincere desire to know him better. Thank him for the spiritual blessings he has given you. Voice a prayer for other believers that come to your mind. Ask God to give them a Spirit of wisdom and revelation that they may know him better.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Crucified With Christ and Your New Life
Today's full reading: Galatians 2:17-3:9
"I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me." (Galatians 2:20 NIV)
It is a distressing thought to imagine my life being over. I am dead. There is nothing more "I" can do. "My time" is complete. I "have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live". This is true in a somewhat strange sort of way. For the seasoned believer this may not seem radical or strange, but for the recent convert think of it in terms of your old life and your new life.
The old you has been crucified with Christ, your sinfulness has earned its final wage: death. (Romans 6:23) The new you has never been more alive, in Christ. Jesus makes all things new (2 Corinthians 5:17). Now the only way to live is a life of faith in Jesus Christ. What does that mean? It means that your everyday decision making must done through a your new mind: the mind of Christ (Ephesians 4:22-24)
Today, as an act of worship, praise God for taking the punishment for your sin on himself and putting it to death on the cross. Ask the Lord to strengthen your faith as you exercise it today through Godly decision making.
"I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me." (Galatians 2:20 NIV)
It is a distressing thought to imagine my life being over. I am dead. There is nothing more "I" can do. "My time" is complete. I "have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live". This is true in a somewhat strange sort of way. For the seasoned believer this may not seem radical or strange, but for the recent convert think of it in terms of your old life and your new life.
The old you has been crucified with Christ, your sinfulness has earned its final wage: death. (Romans 6:23) The new you has never been more alive, in Christ. Jesus makes all things new (2 Corinthians 5:17). Now the only way to live is a life of faith in Jesus Christ. What does that mean? It means that your everyday decision making must done through a your new mind: the mind of Christ (Ephesians 4:22-24)
Today, as an act of worship, praise God for taking the punishment for your sin on himself and putting it to death on the cross. Ask the Lord to strengthen your faith as you exercise it today through Godly decision making.
"You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness."
(Ephesians 4:22-24 NIV)
(Ephesians 4:22-24 NIV)
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Suffering and The Role of Prayer
Today we begin a nineteen day trek through Paul's second letter to the Corinthian believers. I hope you will join me on this journey. Each day I will post a link to the full reading and then highlight a couple of verses to ponder carefully. May God teach us to depend on him through his word. Feel free to add your thoughts, questions, and/or observations in the comment area on the website (www.bjprice.blogspot.com).
Today's full reading: 2 Corinthians 1:1-11
"We [Paul and Timothy] do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about the hardships we suffered in the province of Asia. We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired even of life. Indeed, in our hearts we felt the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead. He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us, as you help us by your prayers." (2 Corinthians 1:8-11 NIV)
Have you ever thought about becoming a missionary? Have you ever thought about the importance of praying for missionaries? We can only imagine the difficulties that Paul and Timothy endured. What was it that took them to the point of death? Whatever it was, we know that it ultimately caused Paul and Timothy to place there full dependency on Christ.
They were now writing this second letter to the Corinthian believers to spur them on in their faithful prayers for God to work on their behalf. For whatever reason (which seems somewhat crazy) God has chosen to work according to our prayers. This is a truly amazing thought! No, prayer is not like a drive through window where we order God around. Nevertheless, God does want us to pray and thus join his work in the world.
Today, as an act of worship, carefully examine your own attitude toward prayer. Do you consider yourself a prayer warrior? Ask God to show you how your prayers make a difference in the work of the Kingdom. "With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints." (Ephesians 6:18 NIV)
Today's full reading: 2 Corinthians 1:1-11
"We [Paul and Timothy] do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about the hardships we suffered in the province of Asia. We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired even of life. Indeed, in our hearts we felt the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead. He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us, as you help us by your prayers." (2 Corinthians 1:8-11 NIV)
Have you ever thought about becoming a missionary? Have you ever thought about the importance of praying for missionaries? We can only imagine the difficulties that Paul and Timothy endured. What was it that took them to the point of death? Whatever it was, we know that it ultimately caused Paul and Timothy to place there full dependency on Christ.
They were now writing this second letter to the Corinthian believers to spur them on in their faithful prayers for God to work on their behalf. For whatever reason (which seems somewhat crazy) God has chosen to work according to our prayers. This is a truly amazing thought! No, prayer is not like a drive through window where we order God around. Nevertheless, God does want us to pray and thus join his work in the world.
Today, as an act of worship, carefully examine your own attitude toward prayer. Do you consider yourself a prayer warrior? Ask God to show you how your prayers make a difference in the work of the Kingdom. "With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints." (Ephesians 6:18 NIV)
Saturday, July 26, 2008
The Simplicity of the Gospel
"That 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. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved." (Romans 10:9-10 NIV)
For people like me who have been in church most of their life it can be easy to add stuff to the true gospel. Major problems are on the horizon for those who do. The gospel is was it is. We cannot change it even if we wanted to. The heart of the "good news" is that God has taken our punishment upon himself and now offers grace to all who believe.
For people like me who have been in church most of their life it can be easy to add stuff to the true gospel. Major problems are on the horizon for those who do. The gospel is was it is. We cannot change it even if we wanted to. The heart of the "good news" is that God has taken our punishment upon himself and now offers grace to all who believe.
As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our sinful nature and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature objects of wrath.Today, as an act of worship, join me in praising God for his marvelous work on the cross and his gift of salvation.
But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus.
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
(Ephesians 2:1-10 NIV)
Friday, July 18, 2008
Did I Call or Did You?
Ephesians 2:8-9, Romans 8:28-33, John 6:44, Romans 3:10-12
One morning during our family devotion time we began discussing how we have "Americanized" the salvation of our souls. We have so many freedoms, we have almost begun to believe that we can choose Jesus on our own. At some point the church began to teach that we needed to make a "decision" for Christ. Churchgoers are asked repeatedly to "walk the aisle" and decide to make Jesus their Lord. While I do not want this sound like I am contradicting the church, I do want to point out that Jesus IS Lord whether we accept Him as that or not. We do not make Him Lord. He IS Lord. Let us not forget that.
We see in our verses for today that the truth of scripture is that we bring nothing to the table when it comes to salvation. For years we believed that we brought our faith to the table, that we were saved by our faith. But, after studying these verses, we have to say this is just not true. Ephesians 2:8 says, "For it is by grace you have been saved through faith - and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God". This means that the faith it takes to call on Jesus as Lord is a gift in itself. It is not of ourselves. We would never choose God on our own.
In fact the Bible teaches that God draws us to himself. He foreknew us, He predestined us, He justified us, and He will glorify us in heaven one day. That fact is as certain as if we were already there.
Let us never be deceived that we are the ones who chose God. Let us always be thankful that He convicted us of our sins and revealed Himself to us. Sometimes we go through life thinking that we turned to Christ all on our own. Give Him the glory and honor He is due in humbling ourselves before Him in thanksgiving for His mercy. He called you! All you did was answer.
"I was wondering - I mean - could there be some mistake? Because nobody called me and Scrubb, you know. It was we who asked to come here. Scrubb said we were to call to - to Somebody - it was a name I wouldn't know - and perhaps the Somebody would let us in. And we did and then we found the door open."
"You would not have called to me unless I had been calling to you," said the Lion.
- Conversation between Jill and Aslan taken from The Silver Chair by C. S. Lewis
Friday, June 06, 2008
Every Opportunity
Today we read in Acts chapter three how the work for Jesus' followers continued each day. Peter and John were going to the temple, and we see vividly how one opportunity led to another. You can read the entire story by clicking here.
To summarize the story, Peter and John met a crippled man who was begging at the temple gate. Peter told him "Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk." (Acts 3:6) He then helped the man up to his feet and the man was totally healed. As he began jumping and leaping and praising God a large crowd of people gathered in amazement.
Peter saw another opportunity and addressed the crowd saying, "Men of Israel, why does this surprise you? Why do you stare at us as if by our own power or godliness we had made this man walk? The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, the God of our fathers, has glorified his servant Jesus. You handed him over to be killed, and you disowned him before Pilate, though he had decided to let him go. You disowned the Holy and Righteous One and asked that a murderer be released to you. You killed the author of life, but God raised him from the dead. We are witnesses of this. By faith in the name of Jesus, this man whom you see and know was made strong. It is Jesus' name and the faith that comes through him that has given this complete healing to him, as you can all see. Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord. (Acts 3:12-16, 19)
Did you notice where the healing came from? It was the name of Jesus that made the difference. There power in the name of Jesus. The Bible says, "Glorify the LORD with me; let us exalt his name together. God exalted [Christ Jesus] to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name. 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. For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved." (Psalms 34:3, Philippians 2:9, Romans 10:9, 13)
Today as an act of worship call upon the name of the Lord. There's power in the name of Jesus. He makes the difference in every situation. As God give us opportunities to shine brightly for him, may we truly point people to Jesus. "Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil." (Ephesians 5:15-16)
To summarize the story, Peter and John met a crippled man who was begging at the temple gate. Peter told him "Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk." (Acts 3:6) He then helped the man up to his feet and the man was totally healed. As he began jumping and leaping and praising God a large crowd of people gathered in amazement.
Peter saw another opportunity and addressed the crowd saying, "Men of Israel, why does this surprise you? Why do you stare at us as if by our own power or godliness we had made this man walk? The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, the God of our fathers, has glorified his servant Jesus. You handed him over to be killed, and you disowned him before Pilate, though he had decided to let him go. You disowned the Holy and Righteous One and asked that a murderer be released to you. You killed the author of life, but God raised him from the dead. We are witnesses of this. By faith in the name of Jesus, this man whom you see and know was made strong. It is Jesus' name and the faith that comes through him that has given this complete healing to him, as you can all see. Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord. (Acts 3:12-16, 19)
Did you notice where the healing came from? It was the name of Jesus that made the difference. There power in the name of Jesus. The Bible says, "Glorify the LORD with me; let us exalt his name together. God exalted [Christ Jesus] to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name. 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. For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved." (Psalms 34:3, Philippians 2:9, Romans 10:9, 13)
Today as an act of worship call upon the name of the Lord. There's power in the name of Jesus. He makes the difference in every situation. As God give us opportunities to shine brightly for him, may we truly point people to Jesus. "Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil." (Ephesians 5:15-16)
Monday, May 26, 2008
What Would Jesus Do?
"Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you." (John 13:14-15)
The most encouraging thing about following Jesus is that he left us an amazing example. A popular phase for the last 112 years is "What Would Jesus Do?" This phase was popularized in the now famous novel written by Charles Sheldon in 1896 called In His Steps. Its amazing how relevant the book still is today. In His Steps is in the public domain and can be read in its entirety online by clicking here. If you've never read it let me encourage you to do so. Go ahead and bookmark the link so you can read it soon. You can also download it in PDF format by clicking here (6.3 MB)
Today let's seek to follow Jesus' example in everything we say and do. His example teaches us to love, serve, and give sacrificially. It also challenges us to live in complete obedience to the Father's will for our lives. May we begin each day in the Word. And then ask the question as we make decisions throughout the day, "What would Jesus Do!"
Additional Scriptures: John 13:34-35, John 15:13, Ephesians 5:2, Matthew 20:28
The most encouraging thing about following Jesus is that he left us an amazing example. A popular phase for the last 112 years is "What Would Jesus Do?" This phase was popularized in the now famous novel written by Charles Sheldon in 1896 called In His Steps. Its amazing how relevant the book still is today. In His Steps is in the public domain and can be read in its entirety online by clicking here. If you've never read it let me encourage you to do so. Go ahead and bookmark the link so you can read it soon. You can also download it in PDF format by clicking here (6.3 MB)
Today let's seek to follow Jesus' example in everything we say and do. His example teaches us to love, serve, and give sacrificially. It also challenges us to live in complete obedience to the Father's will for our lives. May we begin each day in the Word. And then ask the question as we make decisions throughout the day, "What would Jesus Do!"
Additional Scriptures: John 13:34-35, John 15:13, Ephesians 5:2, Matthew 20:28
Saturday, May 24, 2008
Why Work If We Are Saved By Grace
Today we continue on the subject of Christian service by asking the question: "What good are our good works?"
"For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast." (Ephesians 2:8-9)
These verses paint a vivid picture of the marvelous grace of God. If God offers salvation to us as a free gift then why do so many people try to earn their way into heaven by spending there entire lives being good, serving the poor, going to church, reading their Bible, and praying? What good are our works? Do they earn salvation? Do they earn anything at all?
There is a general assumption among much of the world's population that good people go the heaven. But, is this assumption true? Is it true that God uses a giant cosmic scale to weigh your good works against your bad works to see if you should go to heaven or hell?
The Bible clearly answers this last question with a resounding, "NO!" Apart from the grace of God all humanity is eternally damned. And this is rightly so "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus." (Romans 3:23-24)
So, what about all our good works? Do they earn anything at all? And why should we do them?
All the good works that we could ever do are, in fact, totally insufficient in the there ability to earn our access to heaven. If God did weigh our good works and our bad works on some cosmic scale we would all be in a heap of trouble. The Bible says that "all our righteous acts are like filthy rags." (Isaiah 64:6) The simply fact remains that apart from Jesus Christ we will never be good enough.
There is a great book that I read several years ago on this subject that I highly recommend to you called "How Good is Good Enough" by Andy Stanley. You can check it out and even read some excerpts from it at Amazon.com by clicking here.
For the remainder of this post I would like to share with you what I believe should be the purpose of our Christian service.
Having truly tasted the forgiveness of sins and received the free gift of eternal salvation I believe the natural response of man should then be overwhelming gratitude, faithful service, total surrender, sacrificial love, and unending praise.
The purpose of Christian service is not to glorify or benefit us, but to display God's amazing grace and matchless glory. May everything we do magnify his fame not ours. "If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen." (1 Peter 4:11)
Additional Scriptures: Colossians 3:17, 3:23, 1 Corinthians 10:31
"For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast." (Ephesians 2:8-9)
These verses paint a vivid picture of the marvelous grace of God. If God offers salvation to us as a free gift then why do so many people try to earn their way into heaven by spending there entire lives being good, serving the poor, going to church, reading their Bible, and praying? What good are our works? Do they earn salvation? Do they earn anything at all?
There is a general assumption among much of the world's population that good people go the heaven. But, is this assumption true? Is it true that God uses a giant cosmic scale to weigh your good works against your bad works to see if you should go to heaven or hell?
The Bible clearly answers this last question with a resounding, "NO!" Apart from the grace of God all humanity is eternally damned. And this is rightly so "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus." (Romans 3:23-24)
So, what about all our good works? Do they earn anything at all? And why should we do them?
All the good works that we could ever do are, in fact, totally insufficient in the there ability to earn our access to heaven. If God did weigh our good works and our bad works on some cosmic scale we would all be in a heap of trouble. The Bible says that "all our righteous acts are like filthy rags." (Isaiah 64:6) The simply fact remains that apart from Jesus Christ we will never be good enough.
There is a great book that I read several years ago on this subject that I highly recommend to you called "How Good is Good Enough" by Andy Stanley. You can check it out and even read some excerpts from it at Amazon.com by clicking here.For the remainder of this post I would like to share with you what I believe should be the purpose of our Christian service.
Having truly tasted the forgiveness of sins and received the free gift of eternal salvation I believe the natural response of man should then be overwhelming gratitude, faithful service, total surrender, sacrificial love, and unending praise.
The purpose of Christian service is not to glorify or benefit us, but to display God's amazing grace and matchless glory. May everything we do magnify his fame not ours. "If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen." (1 Peter 4:11)
Additional Scriptures: Colossians 3:17, 3:23, 1 Corinthians 10:31
Friday, May 23, 2008
God Has A Job For You!!
This is the first of several posts I am planning to write on Christian service. Today we are focusing on the subject of family mission projects. God is at work all around us in the hearts and lives of people we know. But, we must recognize His work for what it truly is and join Him by making ourselves available to reach out to those in our realm of responsibility. My prayer is that we will be sensitive to His leading as we seek to obey his word today!
As we consider the true weight on these words we should feel compelled to serve more, to give more, to work more, and to be better stewards of all that God has graciously given to us. God desires that we leverage everything at our disposal for His kingdom. Did you catch the last part of Ephesians 2:10? it says, we are created to do good works which "God prepared in advance for us to do.” This means that God has a job for you. God has a mission for you, today!
There are at least two important thing to note here. First, our works DO NOT earn our salvation. Salvation is a free gift that is available to all who follow Jesus Christ. Our works are simply an expression of our salvation. Secondly, it’s important to note that though we are all part of the same body of Christ, NO ONE can do your job for you. No minister can do it for you, no friend can do it for you, your parents cannot do it for you, your children cannot do it for you. God has a job for you. He wants to use your hands and feet to reach people who desperately need him.
As I was preparing today’s devotional message I thought of a few family mission projects I could suggest to you. But, be mindful of what I just said, “God has a plan for you” so be sensitive to his leading. With that in mind, you may already know what He is leading you and your family to do today. If not, here are few suggestions:
Whatever you decide to do with your family today, be sensitive to the Lord’s leading. He has a plan for you – TODAY! If you have other great family mission project ideas (and I know you do) go ahead and leave them in the comment area of this post. We would love to hear them and perhaps try them out.
“Continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.” (Philippians 2:12-13) “For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” (Ephesians 2:10)
As we consider the true weight on these words we should feel compelled to serve more, to give more, to work more, and to be better stewards of all that God has graciously given to us. God desires that we leverage everything at our disposal for His kingdom. Did you catch the last part of Ephesians 2:10? it says, we are created to do good works which "God prepared in advance for us to do.” This means that God has a job for you. God has a mission for you, today!
There are at least two important thing to note here. First, our works DO NOT earn our salvation. Salvation is a free gift that is available to all who follow Jesus Christ. Our works are simply an expression of our salvation. Secondly, it’s important to note that though we are all part of the same body of Christ, NO ONE can do your job for you. No minister can do it for you, no friend can do it for you, your parents cannot do it for you, your children cannot do it for you. God has a job for you. He wants to use your hands and feet to reach people who desperately need him.
As I was preparing today’s devotional message I thought of a few family mission projects I could suggest to you. But, be mindful of what I just said, “God has a plan for you” so be sensitive to his leading. With that in mind, you may already know what He is leading you and your family to do today. If not, here are few suggestions:
- Reach out to your neighbors. Find a creative way to let them know you care about them.
- You could prepare a special gift for your neighbors like cookies or banana bread, or a potted plant. Be sure to include a note from your family perhaps wishing them a happy summer and hoping to get to visit with them soon.
- Find a way to serve your neighbors (especially elderly persons) by helping them clean their house, or weed their flower beds, or cut their grass, or just go sit and visit with them.
- Visit a nursing home, hospital, shelter, or food kitchen and minister to people in their time of need.
- You might want to try taking a 2 hour mission trip in your neighborhood or to a park to meet people and invite them to your church. I have found that kids are especially great at handing out invitations. My boys love ringing doorbells with me.
- My final suggestion is to consider prayer walking in your neighborhood.
Whatever you decide to do with your family today, be sensitive to the Lord’s leading. He has a plan for you – TODAY! If you have other great family mission project ideas (and I know you do) go ahead and leave them in the comment area of this post. We would love to hear them and perhaps try them out.
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