By: Oswald Chambers
(The Awareness of the Call)
. . . for necessity is laid upon me; yes, woe is me if I do not preach the gospel! —1 Corinthians 9:16
We are inclined to forget the deeply spiritual and supernatural touch of God. If you are able to tell exactly where you were when you received the call of God and can explain all about it, I question whether you have truly been called. The call of God does not come like that; it is much more supernatural. The realization of the call in a person’s life may come like a clap of thunder or it may dawn gradually. But however quickly or slowly this awareness comes, it is always accompanied with an undercurrent of the supernatural— something that is inexpressible and produces a "glow." At any moment the sudden awareness of this incalculable, supernatural, surprising call that has taken hold of your life may break through— "I chose you . . ." ( John 15:16 ). The call of God has nothing to do with salvation and sanctification. You are not called to preach the gospel because you are sanctified; the call to preach the gospel is infinitely different. Paul describes it as a compulsion that was placed upon him.
If you have ignored, and thereby removed, the great supernatural call of God in your life, take a review of your circumstances. See where you have put your own ideas of service or your particular abilities ahead of the call of God. Paul said, ". . . woe is me if I do not preach the gospel!" He had become aware of the call of God, and his compulsion to "preach the gospel" was so strong that nothing else was any longer even a competitor for his strength.
If a man or woman is called of God, it doesn’t matter how difficult the circumstances may be. God orchestrates every force at work for His purpose in the end. If you will agree with God’s purpose, He will bring not only your conscious level but also all the deeper levels of your life, which you yourself cannot reach, into perfect harmony.
Monday, September 29, 2008
Thursday, September 25, 2008
TDW 09-26-08 Never Soar as High Again?
By: Selwyn Hughes
(Never Soar as High Again?)
“These have come so that your faith ... may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.” 1 Peter 1:7
We turn now to examine some of the ways in which our lives become fractured, and what we can do to become “strong at the broken places.” We begin by looking at the brokenness which comes about through failure. Probably someone reading these words is caught up in a vortex of gloom due to a failure. You may be feeling like the man who said to me: “I am stunned by my failure. My life is shattered into smithereens. I read somewhere that 'the bird with the broken wing will never soar as high again.' Does that mean I can never rise to the heights in God which once I knew?” I reminded him of Simon Peter - a man with one of the worst track records in the New Testament. He was prejudiced, bigoted, stubborn, and spiritually insensitive. Again and again he got his wires crossed, such as the time when he attempted to divert Christ from going to His death in Jerusalem (Matt. 16:22), or his insistence that they should stay on the Mount of Transfiguration (Matt. 17:4). Then, on the eve of Christ's crucifixion, he denied and even cursed his Lord. I can imagine Satan whispering in his ear: “Now you're finished. Burned out. A failure. You'll be forgotten ... replaced.” But by God's grace, Peter rose from failure to success. He became “strong at the broken places.” Because he refused to live in the shadow of his bad track record, his two letters are enshrined forever in the Scriptures. Failures, you see, are only temporary tests to prepare us for more permanent triumphs.
Prayer:
O Father, I see so clearly that no failure is a failure if it succeeds in driving me to Your side. All things serve me - when I serve You. Amen.
(Never Soar as High Again?)
“These have come so that your faith ... may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.” 1 Peter 1:7
We turn now to examine some of the ways in which our lives become fractured, and what we can do to become “strong at the broken places.” We begin by looking at the brokenness which comes about through failure. Probably someone reading these words is caught up in a vortex of gloom due to a failure. You may be feeling like the man who said to me: “I am stunned by my failure. My life is shattered into smithereens. I read somewhere that 'the bird with the broken wing will never soar as high again.' Does that mean I can never rise to the heights in God which once I knew?” I reminded him of Simon Peter - a man with one of the worst track records in the New Testament. He was prejudiced, bigoted, stubborn, and spiritually insensitive. Again and again he got his wires crossed, such as the time when he attempted to divert Christ from going to His death in Jerusalem (Matt. 16:22), or his insistence that they should stay on the Mount of Transfiguration (Matt. 17:4). Then, on the eve of Christ's crucifixion, he denied and even cursed his Lord. I can imagine Satan whispering in his ear: “Now you're finished. Burned out. A failure. You'll be forgotten ... replaced.” But by God's grace, Peter rose from failure to success. He became “strong at the broken places.” Because he refused to live in the shadow of his bad track record, his two letters are enshrined forever in the Scriptures. Failures, you see, are only temporary tests to prepare us for more permanent triumphs.
Prayer:
O Father, I see so clearly that no failure is a failure if it succeeds in driving me to Your side. All things serve me - when I serve You. Amen.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
TDW 09-24-08 Can You Say "I'm Sorry"?
By: Jeff Schreve
(Can You Say "I'm Sorry"?)
"If therefore you are presenting your offering at the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your offering there before the altar, and go your way; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and present your offering."
Matthew 5:23-24
There was an article in the paper a few weeks ago about a former Dallas City Council member who was indicted for embezzling $20,000 in public funds. He was caught red handed with ample evidence to prove his wrongdoing. His own attorney told the jury in his closing arguments that the former city official "may be guilty of a state theft charge, but he's not guilty of a federal crime." Amazingly, this convicted former city official when asked by the judge to publicly apologize and admit to the crime, he adamantly refused. He chose a month in prison over an apology. WOW!
Eating Humble Pie
What is this man's problem? P-R-I-D-E... plan and simple. Obviously, what this man did was wrong, yet his rotten pride keeps him from humbling himself and making things right. He would rather spend a month in jail than eat a slice of humble pie. How sad.
Did you know there are three things a prideful person has great difficulty in saying?
1. I was wrong.
2. I am sorry.
3. I need your forgiveness.
Can you say those things to others when you mess up with your friends, family, neighbors and work associates? Can you say those things to God when you sin? Being a good apologizer (confessing and repenting) is critical if you want to be a dynamic Christian.
About three years ago, I had a disagreement with a friend. The meeting got tense... and both of us were wrong in our responses. A few hours after the meeting, the Lord convicted me of my part of the wrong. I knew I needed to get things right. I called this person and basically said, "I was wrong. I am sorry. I need your forgiveness." Although this person never reciprocated (he did not think he did anything wrong), my heart and conscience were clear before God. I had certainly blown it... but I chose to take responsibility for my sin and failure and make amends with the one I offended.
Your Life?
Is there someone you have hurt by your attitude, actions, or words that you have never apologized to? Have you been trying to justify your pride and stubbornness, even though, deep down, you know that God wants you to humble yourself and get things right?
I would be lying if I said apologizing is not hard to do. Eating humble pie is not our favorite thing. But, like bad tasting medicine going down, it sure makes you feel better once it hits your system.
Search your heart (Ps. 139:23-24). Is there a person with whom you need to make amends? Don't delay. A close, satisfying walk with God depends upon you and me getting things right with people we have wronged. Trust God. Push through the fear and pride. Open your mouth in apology... and watch God do a great work in and through you.
(Can You Say "I'm Sorry"?)
"If therefore you are presenting your offering at the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your offering there before the altar, and go your way; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and present your offering."
Matthew 5:23-24
There was an article in the paper a few weeks ago about a former Dallas City Council member who was indicted for embezzling $20,000 in public funds. He was caught red handed with ample evidence to prove his wrongdoing. His own attorney told the jury in his closing arguments that the former city official "may be guilty of a state theft charge, but he's not guilty of a federal crime." Amazingly, this convicted former city official when asked by the judge to publicly apologize and admit to the crime, he adamantly refused. He chose a month in prison over an apology. WOW!
Eating Humble Pie
What is this man's problem? P-R-I-D-E... plan and simple. Obviously, what this man did was wrong, yet his rotten pride keeps him from humbling himself and making things right. He would rather spend a month in jail than eat a slice of humble pie. How sad.
Did you know there are three things a prideful person has great difficulty in saying?
1. I was wrong.
2. I am sorry.
3. I need your forgiveness.
Can you say those things to others when you mess up with your friends, family, neighbors and work associates? Can you say those things to God when you sin? Being a good apologizer (confessing and repenting) is critical if you want to be a dynamic Christian.
About three years ago, I had a disagreement with a friend. The meeting got tense... and both of us were wrong in our responses. A few hours after the meeting, the Lord convicted me of my part of the wrong. I knew I needed to get things right. I called this person and basically said, "I was wrong. I am sorry. I need your forgiveness." Although this person never reciprocated (he did not think he did anything wrong), my heart and conscience were clear before God. I had certainly blown it... but I chose to take responsibility for my sin and failure and make amends with the one I offended.
Your Life?
Is there someone you have hurt by your attitude, actions, or words that you have never apologized to? Have you been trying to justify your pride and stubbornness, even though, deep down, you know that God wants you to humble yourself and get things right?
I would be lying if I said apologizing is not hard to do. Eating humble pie is not our favorite thing. But, like bad tasting medicine going down, it sure makes you feel better once it hits your system.
Search your heart (Ps. 139:23-24). Is there a person with whom you need to make amends? Don't delay. A close, satisfying walk with God depends upon you and me getting things right with people we have wronged. Trust God. Push through the fear and pride. Open your mouth in apology... and watch God do a great work in and through you.
Monday, September 22, 2008
TDW 09-22-08 The Joy of Living in God's Presence
By: Jack Graham
(The Joy of Living in God's Presence)
You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.--Psalm 16:11
Can you really live in the presence of God every day of your life? According to our Scripture verse for today, you can.
You and I can enjoy the presence of God when we open His Word and let it speak to us, when we gather with fellow Christians and worship, and when we pray with open hearts to Him.
That’s when God revives our spirit and Jesus gives us joy that fills our lives.
There’s the joy of the Scripture… there’s the joy of the Savior… and there’s the joy of salvation. In fact, Jesus said in Luke 10:20, “Rejoice that your names are written in heaven.”
Yes, the greatest joy of all is knowing that you’re saved!
But today, perhaps you realize that you’re not saved. Maybe you don’t know the joy of salvation in Jesus Christ.
If you would like to know that joy and accept the salvation that Jesus offers, I invite you to pray this prayer:
Lord Jesus Christ, I want to live in the joy and presence of God without sin. I know you made that possible when you paid the price for my sins with your blood. Please come into my life. Forgive my sins and take me into God’s presence. Thank you for your grace and joy. Amen.
Second Corinthians 5:21 says, “For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” If you’ve just prayed this prayer, rejoice that you have been declared righteous by God!
(The Joy of Living in God's Presence)
You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.--Psalm 16:11
Can you really live in the presence of God every day of your life? According to our Scripture verse for today, you can.
You and I can enjoy the presence of God when we open His Word and let it speak to us, when we gather with fellow Christians and worship, and when we pray with open hearts to Him.
That’s when God revives our spirit and Jesus gives us joy that fills our lives.
There’s the joy of the Scripture… there’s the joy of the Savior… and there’s the joy of salvation. In fact, Jesus said in Luke 10:20, “Rejoice that your names are written in heaven.”
Yes, the greatest joy of all is knowing that you’re saved!
But today, perhaps you realize that you’re not saved. Maybe you don’t know the joy of salvation in Jesus Christ.
If you would like to know that joy and accept the salvation that Jesus offers, I invite you to pray this prayer:
Lord Jesus Christ, I want to live in the joy and presence of God without sin. I know you made that possible when you paid the price for my sins with your blood. Please come into my life. Forgive my sins and take me into God’s presence. Thank you for your grace and joy. Amen.
Second Corinthians 5:21 says, “For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” If you’ve just prayed this prayer, rejoice that you have been declared righteous by God!
Friday, September 19, 2008
TDW 09-19-08 The Gospel of the Kingdom
By: Os Hillman
The Gospel of the Kingdom
Matthew 6:9-10
This, then, is how you should pray: "Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name, Your kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven."
Imagine that you have never driven a car. You are not aware of all the features of a car. Up to this point, you have had to walk everywhere you go. All you are told is that you are about to receive something that will get you anywhere you need to go. The day arrives and you are given a brand new car. You get in and drive the car. However, the emergency brake is on, preventing you from going faster than 20 miles per hour. No one tells you that you should unlock the brake. Regardless, you are excited because you no longer have to walk to your destination. You are not told that the car has lights, which would allow you to drive at night. Neither are you told about the many other wonderful features of the car. You just know you have a new car that will get you anywhere you want to go at 20 miles per hour. For the rest of your life, you drive this incredible car during the daytime only at 20 miles per hour.
Why would Jesus pray that things in earth would be like they are in Heaven if it were not possible? When Jesus came to earth, He came in order to penetrate the very kingdom of darkness with light. He came to bring healing to sickness, replace sadness with joy, and fill meaninglessness with purpose. He came to change things for the better for a world that had no hope outside of God.
Using the illustration above, Jesus did not come to merely give us a ticket to Heaven (a car that you drive only in the daytime at 20 miles per hour). He came to bring us much more-the Kingdom of God on earth. Nowhere in the Bible will you find the term, gospel of salvation. The Church does not exist for Heaven, but for earth. If it existed only for Heaven, then each of us would immediately be taken to Heaven. There would be no reason for us to remain on earth. So why has God allowed us to receive this new birth and remain on earth? It is so that we might bring the Kingdom of God into our world-our families, our workplace, and our communities.
God wants you to bring the Kingdom of God into the territory He has given you so that His will can be done on earth as it is in Heaven. Your domain is your workplace, family, and community. Ask God to show you how He wants to penetrate the darkness of your domain with His light. Then you will see and experience all the features of this gift that has been given to you.
The Gospel of the Kingdom
Matthew 6:9-10
This, then, is how you should pray: "Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name, Your kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven."
Imagine that you have never driven a car. You are not aware of all the features of a car. Up to this point, you have had to walk everywhere you go. All you are told is that you are about to receive something that will get you anywhere you need to go. The day arrives and you are given a brand new car. You get in and drive the car. However, the emergency brake is on, preventing you from going faster than 20 miles per hour. No one tells you that you should unlock the brake. Regardless, you are excited because you no longer have to walk to your destination. You are not told that the car has lights, which would allow you to drive at night. Neither are you told about the many other wonderful features of the car. You just know you have a new car that will get you anywhere you want to go at 20 miles per hour. For the rest of your life, you drive this incredible car during the daytime only at 20 miles per hour.
Why would Jesus pray that things in earth would be like they are in Heaven if it were not possible? When Jesus came to earth, He came in order to penetrate the very kingdom of darkness with light. He came to bring healing to sickness, replace sadness with joy, and fill meaninglessness with purpose. He came to change things for the better for a world that had no hope outside of God.
Using the illustration above, Jesus did not come to merely give us a ticket to Heaven (a car that you drive only in the daytime at 20 miles per hour). He came to bring us much more-the Kingdom of God on earth. Nowhere in the Bible will you find the term, gospel of salvation. The Church does not exist for Heaven, but for earth. If it existed only for Heaven, then each of us would immediately be taken to Heaven. There would be no reason for us to remain on earth. So why has God allowed us to receive this new birth and remain on earth? It is so that we might bring the Kingdom of God into our world-our families, our workplace, and our communities.
God wants you to bring the Kingdom of God into the territory He has given you so that His will can be done on earth as it is in Heaven. Your domain is your workplace, family, and community. Ask God to show you how He wants to penetrate the darkness of your domain with His light. Then you will see and experience all the features of this gift that has been given to you.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
TDW 09-18-08 Only God Knows the Potential of Each Believer
By: Henry T. Blackaby
(Only God Knows the Potential of Each Believer)
And when Saul had come to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples; but they were all afraid of him, and did not believe that he was a disciple. But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. (Acts 9:26-27)
Only God knows the potential of each believer. We can project what we think God might do in someone’s life, but we have no way of knowing. We see only outward appearances and behavior, whereas God looks at the heart (1 Sam. 16:7).
The apostles were skeptical of some who professed to be Christians. No one seemed more unlikely to become a dedicated follower of Jesus than Saul of Tarsus. He had been one of Christianity’s greatest enemies, even overseeing the murder of Stephen (Acts 7:58–60). When Paul suddenly expressed an interest in knowing the leaders of the Christian movement, it was natural for the apostles to suspect devious motives and to doubt his conversion. Nevertheless, despite the apostles’ reluctance, Barnabas assumed the best in Paul and risked his own life to be Paul’s advocate.
You may identify with Paul. Perhaps you were an improbable candidate to be a committed Christian. It may be that God placed a Christian friend beside you to help you develop your faith. Thank the Father for those He has sent to you who believed in what God could do in you, even when others doubted.
Perhaps you stand with the apostles. There may be some around you in whom you have little confidence, though they claim to be Christians. Be assured that if God could turn the proud and murderous Saul into one of the greatest saints in history, He is equally capable of redeeming those around you. Don’t give up on your fellow believers. Look to see where God is working in their lives, then join Him. It is a great privilege to be like Barnabas and to invest in the life of a fellow Christian. This is the purpose of discipleship.
(Only God Knows the Potential of Each Believer)
And when Saul had come to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples; but they were all afraid of him, and did not believe that he was a disciple. But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. (Acts 9:26-27)
Only God knows the potential of each believer. We can project what we think God might do in someone’s life, but we have no way of knowing. We see only outward appearances and behavior, whereas God looks at the heart (1 Sam. 16:7).
The apostles were skeptical of some who professed to be Christians. No one seemed more unlikely to become a dedicated follower of Jesus than Saul of Tarsus. He had been one of Christianity’s greatest enemies, even overseeing the murder of Stephen (Acts 7:58–60). When Paul suddenly expressed an interest in knowing the leaders of the Christian movement, it was natural for the apostles to suspect devious motives and to doubt his conversion. Nevertheless, despite the apostles’ reluctance, Barnabas assumed the best in Paul and risked his own life to be Paul’s advocate.
You may identify with Paul. Perhaps you were an improbable candidate to be a committed Christian. It may be that God placed a Christian friend beside you to help you develop your faith. Thank the Father for those He has sent to you who believed in what God could do in you, even when others doubted.
Perhaps you stand with the apostles. There may be some around you in whom you have little confidence, though they claim to be Christians. Be assured that if God could turn the proud and murderous Saul into one of the greatest saints in history, He is equally capable of redeeming those around you. Don’t give up on your fellow believers. Look to see where God is working in their lives, then join Him. It is a great privilege to be like Barnabas and to invest in the life of a fellow Christian. This is the purpose of discipleship.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
TDW 09-17-08 Winning the Battle
From: Daily Disciples Ministries
(Winning the Battle)
“For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ” 2 Corinthians 10:4-5
Did you know that there is an ongoing battle for your mind? Many of us realize that there is a battle taking place in our minds, but the real battle is for control of our minds. This may sound a little like science fiction and weird but that is just what our enemy wants us to think. We are in a spiritual battle every day for control of our thoughts. For some of us, the intensity of conflicting thoughts can torment us for hours. For others of us, we have learned such mind control that we do whatever it takes to press down those thoughts. Regardless of how we handle them, they are still there.
The only effective weapons that we can use are the ones given to us by God. The weapons of the flesh, such as mental imagery or positive thinking will not bring us the victory that God has for us. Many people use such tools and claim dramatic results, but the deceptions are dangerous. Why? Because the focus and the power are placed completely on us, not on the Lord. The more power we think we have in ourselves, the more power Satan has over us. Scary thought? Let’s go for the real power and learn to bring our thoughts before Christ.
Are you in a battle today over things in your mind? There are two things you must incorporate into your daily routine. First, open your Bible and read at least one verse in the morning. Use a devotional or a Psalm or Proverb, whatever works for you. Second, take what you have read and ask the Lord to put His words into your mind throughout the day. If you will do this everyday, in time you will begin to remember God’s words and will think about them because His Spirit will bring them to your thoughts. For those things that you are struggling with in your mind, start talking to the Lord about them. Pray that His words will bring comfort and hope instead of torment and guilt. Let the Lord fight for you by letting Him have the control over your mind instead of trying to handle it yourself.
(Winning the Battle)
“For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ” 2 Corinthians 10:4-5
Did you know that there is an ongoing battle for your mind? Many of us realize that there is a battle taking place in our minds, but the real battle is for control of our minds. This may sound a little like science fiction and weird but that is just what our enemy wants us to think. We are in a spiritual battle every day for control of our thoughts. For some of us, the intensity of conflicting thoughts can torment us for hours. For others of us, we have learned such mind control that we do whatever it takes to press down those thoughts. Regardless of how we handle them, they are still there.
The only effective weapons that we can use are the ones given to us by God. The weapons of the flesh, such as mental imagery or positive thinking will not bring us the victory that God has for us. Many people use such tools and claim dramatic results, but the deceptions are dangerous. Why? Because the focus and the power are placed completely on us, not on the Lord. The more power we think we have in ourselves, the more power Satan has over us. Scary thought? Let’s go for the real power and learn to bring our thoughts before Christ.
Are you in a battle today over things in your mind? There are two things you must incorporate into your daily routine. First, open your Bible and read at least one verse in the morning. Use a devotional or a Psalm or Proverb, whatever works for you. Second, take what you have read and ask the Lord to put His words into your mind throughout the day. If you will do this everyday, in time you will begin to remember God’s words and will think about them because His Spirit will bring them to your thoughts. For those things that you are struggling with in your mind, start talking to the Lord about them. Pray that His words will bring comfort and hope instead of torment and guilt. Let the Lord fight for you by letting Him have the control over your mind instead of trying to handle it yourself.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
TDW 09-16-08 A Righteousness that Glorifies God
By: John MacArthur
(A Righteousness that Glorifies God)
"Stand firm therefore . . . having put on the breastplate of righteousness" (Eph. 6:14).
We've seen the importance of donning the breastplate of righteousness, but Scripture also discusses the consequences of failing to do so. These consequences serve as warnings to anyone who is prone to neglect righteousness.
If you're not committed to righteousness, you not only make yourself spiritually vulnerable, but also forfeit some of God's wonderful blessings. David prayed, "Restore to me the joy of Thy salvation" (Ps. 51:13). His sin had robbed him of his joy and assurance. That's true of us as well because joy is directly proportional to obedience. If you're pursuing greater righteousness, you'll know greater joy.
You might also forfeit some of your heavenly reward. John said, "Watch yourselves, that you might not lose what we have accomplished, but that you may receive a full reward" (1 John 8). I believe that New Testament rewards are various capacities for service in heaven. The greater your reward, the greater your capacity to serve God. Somehow your current righteousness and faithfulness to God affect what you will do for all eternity. Don't allow sin and negligence to diminish your reward!
Without righteousness you will also suffer loss of opportunity to glorify God. When thinking or behaving unrighteously, you violate your reason for existence, which is to glorify God in everything (1 Cor. 10:31). Instead of exalting Him, you bring reproach on His name. Instead of causing others to see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven (Matt. 5:16), you breed confusion and mockery.
Peter says to us, "Beloved, I urge you as aliens and strangers to abstain from fleshly lusts, which wage war against the soul. Keep your behavior excellent among the Gentiles, so that . . . they may on account of your good deeds, as they observe them, glorify God in the day of visitation" (1 Pet. 2:11). When unbelievers scrutinize your life, what do they see? Does your righteousness testify of God's saving and sanctifying grace?
Suggestions for Prayer:
Ask God to give you an increased hunger and thirst for righteousness as you seek to live to His glory today.
For Further Study:
Memorize 2 Corinthians 5:21 as a reminder of God's marvelous grace to you.
(A Righteousness that Glorifies God)
"Stand firm therefore . . . having put on the breastplate of righteousness" (Eph. 6:14).
We've seen the importance of donning the breastplate of righteousness, but Scripture also discusses the consequences of failing to do so. These consequences serve as warnings to anyone who is prone to neglect righteousness.
If you're not committed to righteousness, you not only make yourself spiritually vulnerable, but also forfeit some of God's wonderful blessings. David prayed, "Restore to me the joy of Thy salvation" (Ps. 51:13). His sin had robbed him of his joy and assurance. That's true of us as well because joy is directly proportional to obedience. If you're pursuing greater righteousness, you'll know greater joy.
You might also forfeit some of your heavenly reward. John said, "Watch yourselves, that you might not lose what we have accomplished, but that you may receive a full reward" (1 John 8). I believe that New Testament rewards are various capacities for service in heaven. The greater your reward, the greater your capacity to serve God. Somehow your current righteousness and faithfulness to God affect what you will do for all eternity. Don't allow sin and negligence to diminish your reward!
Without righteousness you will also suffer loss of opportunity to glorify God. When thinking or behaving unrighteously, you violate your reason for existence, which is to glorify God in everything (1 Cor. 10:31). Instead of exalting Him, you bring reproach on His name. Instead of causing others to see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven (Matt. 5:16), you breed confusion and mockery.
Peter says to us, "Beloved, I urge you as aliens and strangers to abstain from fleshly lusts, which wage war against the soul. Keep your behavior excellent among the Gentiles, so that . . . they may on account of your good deeds, as they observe them, glorify God in the day of visitation" (1 Pet. 2:11). When unbelievers scrutinize your life, what do they see? Does your righteousness testify of God's saving and sanctifying grace?
Suggestions for Prayer:
Ask God to give you an increased hunger and thirst for righteousness as you seek to live to His glory today.
For Further Study:
Memorize 2 Corinthians 5:21 as a reminder of God's marvelous grace to you.
Monday, September 15, 2008
TDW 09-15-08 What To Renounce
By: Oswald Chambers
(What To Renounce)
We have renounced the hidden things of shame . . . —2 Corinthians 4:2
Have you "renounced the hidden things of shame" in your life— the things that your sense of honor or pride will not allow to come into the light? You can easily hide them. Is there a thought in your heart about anyone that you would not like to be brought into the light? Then renounce it as soon as it comes to mind— renounce everything in its entirety until there is no hidden dishonesty or craftiness about you at all. Envy, jealousy, and strife don’t necessarily arise from your old nature of sin, but from the flesh which was used for these kinds of things in the past (see Romans 6:19 and 1 Peter 4:1-3 ). You must maintain continual watchfulness so that nothing arises in your life that would cause you shame.
". . . not walking in craftiness. . ." ( 2 Corinthians 4:2 ). This means not resorting to something simply to make your own point. This is a terrible trap. You know that God will allow you to work in only one way— the way of truth. Then be careful never to catch people through the other way— the way of deceit. If you act deceitfully, God’s blight and ruin will be upon you. What may be craftiness for you, may not be for others— God has called you to a higher standard. Never dull your sense of being your utmost for His highest— your best for His glory. For you, doing certain things would mean craftiness coming into your life for a purpose other than what is the highest and best, and it would dull the motivation that God has given you. Many people have turned back because they are afraid to look at things from God’s perspective. The greatest spiritual crisis comes when a person has to move a little farther on in his faith than the beliefs he has already accepted
(What To Renounce)
We have renounced the hidden things of shame . . . —2 Corinthians 4:2
Have you "renounced the hidden things of shame" in your life— the things that your sense of honor or pride will not allow to come into the light? You can easily hide them. Is there a thought in your heart about anyone that you would not like to be brought into the light? Then renounce it as soon as it comes to mind— renounce everything in its entirety until there is no hidden dishonesty or craftiness about you at all. Envy, jealousy, and strife don’t necessarily arise from your old nature of sin, but from the flesh which was used for these kinds of things in the past (see Romans 6:19 and 1 Peter 4:1-3 ). You must maintain continual watchfulness so that nothing arises in your life that would cause you shame.
". . . not walking in craftiness. . ." ( 2 Corinthians 4:2 ). This means not resorting to something simply to make your own point. This is a terrible trap. You know that God will allow you to work in only one way— the way of truth. Then be careful never to catch people through the other way— the way of deceit. If you act deceitfully, God’s blight and ruin will be upon you. What may be craftiness for you, may not be for others— God has called you to a higher standard. Never dull your sense of being your utmost for His highest— your best for His glory. For you, doing certain things would mean craftiness coming into your life for a purpose other than what is the highest and best, and it would dull the motivation that God has given you. Many people have turned back because they are afraid to look at things from God’s perspective. The greatest spiritual crisis comes when a person has to move a little farther on in his faith than the beliefs he has already accepted
Friday, September 12, 2008
TDW 09-12-08 We are defined by Jesus, not by accomplishments or failures.
By: Tammy Webb-Witholt
Today's Scripture
For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God's glorious standard. Yet God, with undeserved kindness, declares that we are righteous. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins. Romans 3:23-24 NLT
Thoughts for Today
We are defined not by our accomplishments or failures, but by who we are in Christ.
This can be good news when what we've done is nothing to brag about. Maybe we've lived a sinful lifestyle, been selfish and unkind, or just experienced a lot of failure in our life. Praise God that he doesn't define us by what we've done, but by what Christ did for us. He died on the cross so that our sins could be forgiven. And when we believe and accept the sacrifice he made for us, we are cleansed. Then God sees us as though we have never sinned! And that's our new identity ... a follower of Christ, clothed in his righteousness.
But on the other hand, maybe we've lived a pretty good life and achieved a high level of success. We really like being defined by that. We like feeling good about what we've done. We like the praise and admiration of others....But you know what? Our accomplishments aren't really that impressive to God. He sees our hearts. He knows that they are not always pure. He knows that we need Jesus. We need to know that too.
Consider this…
All the accomplishments in the world don't mean a thing when it comes to getting right with God and spending eternity with him. We just can't do enough to earn our way—that's why we need Jesus.
If you are not a fully committed follower of Christ, you can make that decision right now. No matter what your past ... no matter how good or bad your behavior ... you need Jesus. He loves you and is reaching out to you right now. Do you want to meet him? Just tell him that you know you need him ... and that you want to follow him. He is ready ... are you?
Prayer
Jesus, I believe that you died for my sins. Please forgive me for all my past. I'm ready for a change. I want to follow you ... and do things your way. In Jesus' name ...
Today's Scripture
For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God's glorious standard. Yet God, with undeserved kindness, declares that we are righteous. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins. Romans 3:23-24 NLT
Thoughts for Today
We are defined not by our accomplishments or failures, but by who we are in Christ.
This can be good news when what we've done is nothing to brag about. Maybe we've lived a sinful lifestyle, been selfish and unkind, or just experienced a lot of failure in our life. Praise God that he doesn't define us by what we've done, but by what Christ did for us. He died on the cross so that our sins could be forgiven. And when we believe and accept the sacrifice he made for us, we are cleansed. Then God sees us as though we have never sinned! And that's our new identity ... a follower of Christ, clothed in his righteousness.
But on the other hand, maybe we've lived a pretty good life and achieved a high level of success. We really like being defined by that. We like feeling good about what we've done. We like the praise and admiration of others....But you know what? Our accomplishments aren't really that impressive to God. He sees our hearts. He knows that they are not always pure. He knows that we need Jesus. We need to know that too.
Consider this…
All the accomplishments in the world don't mean a thing when it comes to getting right with God and spending eternity with him. We just can't do enough to earn our way—that's why we need Jesus.
If you are not a fully committed follower of Christ, you can make that decision right now. No matter what your past ... no matter how good or bad your behavior ... you need Jesus. He loves you and is reaching out to you right now. Do you want to meet him? Just tell him that you know you need him ... and that you want to follow him. He is ready ... are you?
Prayer
Jesus, I believe that you died for my sins. Please forgive me for all my past. I'm ready for a change. I want to follow you ... and do things your way. In Jesus' name ...
Thursday, September 11, 2008
TDW 09-11-08 Transform Your Enemies
From: The Word Among Us
(Transform Your Enemies)
Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. (Luke 6:27-28)
On this day—the seventh anniversary of the terrorist attacks in the United States—Jesus’ advice may seem incredibly naïve and impractical. How can people forgive such monstrous acts of hatred and violence? Doesn’t such weakness set them up for further disasters?
But Jesus was not naïve. His parents had to flee a paranoid despot so that he could survive infancy, and he lived and worked under brutal Roman rule. His advice to turn the other cheek wasn’t a prudent way of staying out of trouble. Rather, it was a practical way of releasing the transforming power of God’s love into the world. That love is far more potent than the impact that leveled the World Trade Center in New York City.
We’ve all heard about people who found the grace to forgive their children’s murderer, in some cases even bringing them to conversion. Not every story finds this kind of resolution—at least not this side of heaven. But choosing to love is always better for the victim than huddling in a prison of bitterness, rehearsing vengeful schemes.
So don’t give way to vengeance or fear. Rather, try to comfort and support anyone who has borne personal grief and loss, no matter what the cause. Let’s all pray for our enemies, both near and far. And let’s try hard to understand those whose race or religion tempt us to consider them a threat to us.
Is there someone whom you have a hard time loving? Is it possible that you could learn more about an acquaintance whose religion, cultural upbringing, or even hobbies and interests are very unfamiliar to you? Could you take the first small step toward reconciling with a neighbor or family member who hasn’t spoken to you in years? Can you look beyond another’s unshaven face, heavy makeup, or agitated behavior and see the person God loves as much as he loves you? Yes, you can! Jesus is with you, and he can shine his light into the darkest of places!
”Father, I don’t understand why there is so much hostility in the world, but please drain the residue of hatred from my own heart. Lord, make me a channel through which your love can touch others.”
(Transform Your Enemies)
Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. (Luke 6:27-28)
On this day—the seventh anniversary of the terrorist attacks in the United States—Jesus’ advice may seem incredibly naïve and impractical. How can people forgive such monstrous acts of hatred and violence? Doesn’t such weakness set them up for further disasters?
But Jesus was not naïve. His parents had to flee a paranoid despot so that he could survive infancy, and he lived and worked under brutal Roman rule. His advice to turn the other cheek wasn’t a prudent way of staying out of trouble. Rather, it was a practical way of releasing the transforming power of God’s love into the world. That love is far more potent than the impact that leveled the World Trade Center in New York City.
We’ve all heard about people who found the grace to forgive their children’s murderer, in some cases even bringing them to conversion. Not every story finds this kind of resolution—at least not this side of heaven. But choosing to love is always better for the victim than huddling in a prison of bitterness, rehearsing vengeful schemes.
So don’t give way to vengeance or fear. Rather, try to comfort and support anyone who has borne personal grief and loss, no matter what the cause. Let’s all pray for our enemies, both near and far. And let’s try hard to understand those whose race or religion tempt us to consider them a threat to us.
Is there someone whom you have a hard time loving? Is it possible that you could learn more about an acquaintance whose religion, cultural upbringing, or even hobbies and interests are very unfamiliar to you? Could you take the first small step toward reconciling with a neighbor or family member who hasn’t spoken to you in years? Can you look beyond another’s unshaven face, heavy makeup, or agitated behavior and see the person God loves as much as he loves you? Yes, you can! Jesus is with you, and he can shine his light into the darkest of places!
”Father, I don’t understand why there is so much hostility in the world, but please drain the residue of hatred from my own heart. Lord, make me a channel through which your love can touch others.”
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
TDW 09-10-08 Coming In; Going Out
By: C. H. Spurgeon
(Coming In; Going Out)a
"Blessed shalt thou be when thou comest in, and blessed shalt thou be when thou goest out." Deuteronomy 28:6
The blessings of the law are not canceled. Jesus confirmed the promise when He bore the penalty. If I keep the commands of my LORD, I may appropriate this promise without question.
This day I will come in to my house without fear of evil tidings, and I will come in to my closet expecting to hear good news from my LORD. I will not be afraid to come in unto myself by self-examination, nor to come in to my affairs by a diligent inspection of my business. I have a good deal of work to do indoors, within my own soul; oh, for a blessing upon it all, the blessing of the LORD Jesus, who has promised to abide with me.
I must also go out. Timidity makes me wish that I could stay within doors and never go into the sinful world again. But I must go out in my calling, and I must go out that I may be helpful to my brethren and useful to the ungodly. I must be a defender of the faith and an assailant of evil. Oh, for a blessing upon my going out this day! LORD, let me go where Thou leadest, on Thy errands, under Thy command, and in the power of Thy Spirit.
LORD Jesus, turn in with me and be my guest; and then walk out with me and cause my heart to burn while You speak with me by the way.
(Coming In; Going Out)a
"Blessed shalt thou be when thou comest in, and blessed shalt thou be when thou goest out." Deuteronomy 28:6
The blessings of the law are not canceled. Jesus confirmed the promise when He bore the penalty. If I keep the commands of my LORD, I may appropriate this promise without question.
This day I will come in to my house without fear of evil tidings, and I will come in to my closet expecting to hear good news from my LORD. I will not be afraid to come in unto myself by self-examination, nor to come in to my affairs by a diligent inspection of my business. I have a good deal of work to do indoors, within my own soul; oh, for a blessing upon it all, the blessing of the LORD Jesus, who has promised to abide with me.
I must also go out. Timidity makes me wish that I could stay within doors and never go into the sinful world again. But I must go out in my calling, and I must go out that I may be helpful to my brethren and useful to the ungodly. I must be a defender of the faith and an assailant of evil. Oh, for a blessing upon my going out this day! LORD, let me go where Thou leadest, on Thy errands, under Thy command, and in the power of Thy Spirit.
LORD Jesus, turn in with me and be my guest; and then walk out with me and cause my heart to burn while You speak with me by the way.
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
TDW 09-09-08 Helping People Have the Assurance of Salvation
By: John Piper
(Helping People Have the Assurance of Salvation)
Full assurance is God's will for us. "And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence so as to realize the full assurance of hope until the end" Hebrews 6:11.
Assurance is partially sustained by objective evidences for Christian truth. "To [his apostles] He also presented Himself alive after His suffering, by many convincing proofs, appearing to them over a period of forty days" Acts 1:3.
Assurance cannot neglect the painful work of self-examination. "Test yourselves to see if you are in the faith; examine yourselves! Or do you not recognize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you - unless indeed you fail the test?" 2 Corinthians 13:5.
Assurance will diminish in the presence of concealed sin. "When I kept silent about my sin, my body wasted away through my groaning all day long" Psalm 32:3.
Assurance comes from hearing the Word of Christ. "So faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ" Romans 10:17.
"These have been written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name" John 20:31.
Repeated focusing on the sufficiency of the cross of Christ is crucial for assurance. "Since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith" Hebrews 10:21-22.
We must pray for eyes to see the truths that sustain assurance. "I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you will know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe" Ephesians 1:18-19.
Assurance is not easily maintained in personal isolation. "And the eye cannot say to the hand, 'I have no need of you'" 1 Corinthians 12:21.
Assurance is not destroyed by God's displeasure and discipline. "Do not rejoice over me, O my enemy. Though I fall I will rise; though I dwell in darkness, the LORD is a light for me. I will bear the indignation of the LORD because I have sinned against Him, until He pleads my case and executes justice for me. He will bring me out to the light, and I will see His righteousness" Micah 7:8-9.
We must often wait patiently for the return of assurance. "I waited patiently for the LORD; and He inclined to me and heard my cry. He brought me up out of the pit of destruction, out of the miry clay, and He set my feet upon a rock making my footsteps firm. He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God; many will see and fear and will trust in the LORD" Psalm 40:1-3.
Assurance is a fight to the day we die. "Fight the good fight of faith; take hold of the eternal life" 1 Timothy 6:12.
"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith" 2 Timothy 4:7.
Assurance is finally a gift of the Spirit. "The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are children of God" Romans 8:16.
"The one who believes in the Son of God has the testimony in himself... And the testimony is this, that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son" 1 John 5:10-11.
(Helping People Have the Assurance of Salvation)
Full assurance is God's will for us. "And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence so as to realize the full assurance of hope until the end" Hebrews 6:11.
Assurance is partially sustained by objective evidences for Christian truth. "To [his apostles] He also presented Himself alive after His suffering, by many convincing proofs, appearing to them over a period of forty days" Acts 1:3.
Assurance cannot neglect the painful work of self-examination. "Test yourselves to see if you are in the faith; examine yourselves! Or do you not recognize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you - unless indeed you fail the test?" 2 Corinthians 13:5.
Assurance will diminish in the presence of concealed sin. "When I kept silent about my sin, my body wasted away through my groaning all day long" Psalm 32:3.
Assurance comes from hearing the Word of Christ. "So faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ" Romans 10:17.
"These have been written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name" John 20:31.
Repeated focusing on the sufficiency of the cross of Christ is crucial for assurance. "Since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith" Hebrews 10:21-22.
We must pray for eyes to see the truths that sustain assurance. "I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you will know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe" Ephesians 1:18-19.
Assurance is not easily maintained in personal isolation. "And the eye cannot say to the hand, 'I have no need of you'" 1 Corinthians 12:21.
Assurance is not destroyed by God's displeasure and discipline. "Do not rejoice over me, O my enemy. Though I fall I will rise; though I dwell in darkness, the LORD is a light for me. I will bear the indignation of the LORD because I have sinned against Him, until He pleads my case and executes justice for me. He will bring me out to the light, and I will see His righteousness" Micah 7:8-9.
We must often wait patiently for the return of assurance. "I waited patiently for the LORD; and He inclined to me and heard my cry. He brought me up out of the pit of destruction, out of the miry clay, and He set my feet upon a rock making my footsteps firm. He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God; many will see and fear and will trust in the LORD" Psalm 40:1-3.
Assurance is a fight to the day we die. "Fight the good fight of faith; take hold of the eternal life" 1 Timothy 6:12.
"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith" 2 Timothy 4:7.
Assurance is finally a gift of the Spirit. "The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are children of God" Romans 8:16.
"The one who believes in the Son of God has the testimony in himself... And the testimony is this, that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son" 1 John 5:10-11.
Monday, September 8, 2008
TDW 09-08-08 Love Always Protects
By: Max Lucado
(Love Always Protects)
Genesis 3:21 has been called the first gospel sermon. Preached not by preachers, but by God himself. Not with words, but with symbol and action.
“The LORD God made clothes from animal skins for the man and his wife and dressed them” (Gen. 3:21).
God covers them. He protects them.
Love always protects.
Hasn’t he done the same for us? We eat our share of forbidden fruit. We say what we shouldn’t say. Go where we shouldn’t go. Pluck fruit from trees we shouldn’t touch.
So what does God do? Exactly what he did for our parents in the garden. He sheds innocent blood. He offers the life of his Son. And from the scene of the sacrifice the Father takes a robe—not the skin of an animal—but the robe of righteousness. And does he throw it in our direction and tell us to shape up? No, he dresses us himself. He dresses us with himself. “You were all baptized into Christ, and so you were all clothed with Christ” (Gal. 3:26–27).
God has clothed us. He protects us with a cloak of love. Can you look back over your life and see instances of God’s protection? I can too. My junior year in college I was fascinated by a movement of Christians several thousand miles from my campus. Some of my friends decided to spend the summer at the movement’s largest church and be discipled. When I tried to do the same, every door closed. Problem after problem with finances, logistics, and travel.
A second opportunity surfaced: spending a summer in Brazil. In this case, every door I knocked on swung open. Two and one half decades later I see how God protected me. The movement has become a cult—dangerous and oppressive. Time in Brazil introduced me to grace—freeing and joyful. Did God protect me? Does God protect us?
And you? Did he keep you from a bad relationship? Protect you from the wrong job? Insulate you from _______________ (you fill in the blank)? “Like hovering birds, so will [the LORD Almighty] protect Jerusalem” (Isa. 31:5 JB). “He will strengthen and protect you” (2 Thess. 3:3 NIV). “He will command his angels … to guard you” (Ps. 91:11 NIV). God protects you with a cloak of love
(Love Always Protects)
Genesis 3:21 has been called the first gospel sermon. Preached not by preachers, but by God himself. Not with words, but with symbol and action.
“The LORD God made clothes from animal skins for the man and his wife and dressed them” (Gen. 3:21).
God covers them. He protects them.
Love always protects.
Hasn’t he done the same for us? We eat our share of forbidden fruit. We say what we shouldn’t say. Go where we shouldn’t go. Pluck fruit from trees we shouldn’t touch.
So what does God do? Exactly what he did for our parents in the garden. He sheds innocent blood. He offers the life of his Son. And from the scene of the sacrifice the Father takes a robe—not the skin of an animal—but the robe of righteousness. And does he throw it in our direction and tell us to shape up? No, he dresses us himself. He dresses us with himself. “You were all baptized into Christ, and so you were all clothed with Christ” (Gal. 3:26–27).
God has clothed us. He protects us with a cloak of love. Can you look back over your life and see instances of God’s protection? I can too. My junior year in college I was fascinated by a movement of Christians several thousand miles from my campus. Some of my friends decided to spend the summer at the movement’s largest church and be discipled. When I tried to do the same, every door closed. Problem after problem with finances, logistics, and travel.
A second opportunity surfaced: spending a summer in Brazil. In this case, every door I knocked on swung open. Two and one half decades later I see how God protected me. The movement has become a cult—dangerous and oppressive. Time in Brazil introduced me to grace—freeing and joyful. Did God protect me? Does God protect us?
And you? Did he keep you from a bad relationship? Protect you from the wrong job? Insulate you from _______________ (you fill in the blank)? “Like hovering birds, so will [the LORD Almighty] protect Jerusalem” (Isa. 31:5 JB). “He will strengthen and protect you” (2 Thess. 3:3 NIV). “He will command his angels … to guard you” (Ps. 91:11 NIV). God protects you with a cloak of love
Friday, September 5, 2008
TDW 09-05-08 Test Me and Hold On and Freely Give!
By: Eddie L. Long
(Test Me and Hold On!)
“Bring all the tithes into the storehouse, That there may be food in My house, And try Me now in this,” says the Lord of hosts, “If I will not open for you the windows of heaven And pour out for you such blessing That there will not be room enough to receive it.” Malachi 3:10
When you give a tithe, you are bringing it to God’s earthly “storehouse,” the local church. There God does not spend your money; His people spend it to provide for the facilities and tools they use to build up and serve His kingdom on earth. God does not need your money as much as you need to give it. God is looking for your faith, and anything related to giving away your money will take faith!
That is why He was saying in Malachi, in essence, “Try Me. Believe Me! If I can get you to exercise your faith through your money, then I will have you covered everywhere else. You will have plenty of faith to believe Me for anything else after that.”
If you have given the firstfruits of your income and that has stretched your faith, God will give it back to you in a heartbeat. Tithing is not about the money. The most important aspect of faithful tithing is that it proves you can handle more blessings without the blessings handling you. It is practical proof that you put God above your money.
Once you have proven yourself faithful to give, God will tell you secret things and share fresh ideas that no one else will believe, and your faith will grow in giant leaps. He will share incredible insights with you because you have proven that you have enough faith to walk where few—if any—have gone before.
Holy Father, I accept Your challenge and I dare to prove Your Word is true. I will tithe my firstfruits to You with joy and faith, knowing that You will honor Your Word and pour out a blessing to me so I can be a blessing to others. In Jesus’ name, amen.
************************************************************************
By: Henry T. Blackaby
(Freely Give)
"Freely you have received, freely give." (Matthew 10:8b)
There is no room for misers in God’s kingdom. When we begin to struggle in giving what we have to others, we have forgotten where we received our possessions. Every good thing we have ever received has come from God (James 1:17). All that we have acquired has been dependent upon His grace (1 Cor. 4:7). Job accurately summarized our condition: “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, / And naked shall I return there. / The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; / Blessed be the name of the Lord” (Job 1:21).
We easily assume a sense of ownership of our possessions, as if they were things we earned ourselves, thereby giving us a right to them. Jesus reminds us to be prepared to give our possessions as freely and joyfully as we received them. It should be a pleasure for us to give what we have to others (2 Cor. 9:7). We ought to be a conduit through whom the Lord can pour His blessings, knowing we will disperse them to everyone around us. Sometimes we claim we are trying to be good stewards of our resources when actually we are being selfish.
If you struggle to give freely to others, you have become more attached to the gift than to the Giver. The account of the rich young ruler shows the tragedy of becoming too attached to worldly treasures (Luke 8:18–24). Meditate on all that your Lord has given to you (John 3:16). Resolve to express your gratitude to Him through your giving.
(Test Me and Hold On!)
“Bring all the tithes into the storehouse, That there may be food in My house, And try Me now in this,” says the Lord of hosts, “If I will not open for you the windows of heaven And pour out for you such blessing That there will not be room enough to receive it.” Malachi 3:10
When you give a tithe, you are bringing it to God’s earthly “storehouse,” the local church. There God does not spend your money; His people spend it to provide for the facilities and tools they use to build up and serve His kingdom on earth. God does not need your money as much as you need to give it. God is looking for your faith, and anything related to giving away your money will take faith!
That is why He was saying in Malachi, in essence, “Try Me. Believe Me! If I can get you to exercise your faith through your money, then I will have you covered everywhere else. You will have plenty of faith to believe Me for anything else after that.”
If you have given the firstfruits of your income and that has stretched your faith, God will give it back to you in a heartbeat. Tithing is not about the money. The most important aspect of faithful tithing is that it proves you can handle more blessings without the blessings handling you. It is practical proof that you put God above your money.
Once you have proven yourself faithful to give, God will tell you secret things and share fresh ideas that no one else will believe, and your faith will grow in giant leaps. He will share incredible insights with you because you have proven that you have enough faith to walk where few—if any—have gone before.
Holy Father, I accept Your challenge and I dare to prove Your Word is true. I will tithe my firstfruits to You with joy and faith, knowing that You will honor Your Word and pour out a blessing to me so I can be a blessing to others. In Jesus’ name, amen.
************************************************************************
By: Henry T. Blackaby
(Freely Give)
"Freely you have received, freely give." (Matthew 10:8b)
There is no room for misers in God’s kingdom. When we begin to struggle in giving what we have to others, we have forgotten where we received our possessions. Every good thing we have ever received has come from God (James 1:17). All that we have acquired has been dependent upon His grace (1 Cor. 4:7). Job accurately summarized our condition: “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, / And naked shall I return there. / The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; / Blessed be the name of the Lord” (Job 1:21).
We easily assume a sense of ownership of our possessions, as if they were things we earned ourselves, thereby giving us a right to them. Jesus reminds us to be prepared to give our possessions as freely and joyfully as we received them. It should be a pleasure for us to give what we have to others (2 Cor. 9:7). We ought to be a conduit through whom the Lord can pour His blessings, knowing we will disperse them to everyone around us. Sometimes we claim we are trying to be good stewards of our resources when actually we are being selfish.
If you struggle to give freely to others, you have become more attached to the gift than to the Giver. The account of the rich young ruler shows the tragedy of becoming too attached to worldly treasures (Luke 8:18–24). Meditate on all that your Lord has given to you (John 3:16). Resolve to express your gratitude to Him through your giving.
Thursday, September 4, 2008
TDW 09-04-08 Jesus Christ and the Maze of Life
By: Ed Young
(Multiple Choice - A-Maze-Ing)
"For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness..." (2 Peter 1:5-6).
We face a multiplicity of choices in the maze of life. Whether big or small, highly impactful or uneventful, the decisions that we make form who we are. And inversely, how we are designed, how we are wired will effect how we make decisions.
Our decision making styles and abilities vary greatly - from choosing what we think is best in the moment to stewing over the choices for far too long. Some of us even try to put off making decisions as long as we possibly can.
Christ, though, showed a perfect balance of patience, trust, forgiveness, obedience and decisiveness in choosing his actions and behaviors. The choices he made reflected the way God wants each of us to make decisions today. But how do we do this? How can we reflect Christ in what we decide?
Every time a decision presents itself, we should ask ourselves the same questions that Christ asked himself - some of which are macro questions, others are micro questions. We have to ask ourselves if our decision follows the guidelines of God's written word, if our decision reflects God's love, and if our decision is on God's agenda. After answering these macro questions, we need to ask some micro questions - is the decision the best possible choice considering our past decisions, present conditions and future aspirations.
This week, run your decisions through the macro and micro funnels of the right questions. As you ask yourself these questions, your decisions will filter down to reflect a perfect balance of what God wants - a balance of the decision making styles that Christ reflected. And as you discover the answers that God has in store, you will be much better equipped to negotiate the maze of life.
(Multiple Choice - A-Maze-Ing)
"For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness..." (2 Peter 1:5-6).
We face a multiplicity of choices in the maze of life. Whether big or small, highly impactful or uneventful, the decisions that we make form who we are. And inversely, how we are designed, how we are wired will effect how we make decisions.
Our decision making styles and abilities vary greatly - from choosing what we think is best in the moment to stewing over the choices for far too long. Some of us even try to put off making decisions as long as we possibly can.
Christ, though, showed a perfect balance of patience, trust, forgiveness, obedience and decisiveness in choosing his actions and behaviors. The choices he made reflected the way God wants each of us to make decisions today. But how do we do this? How can we reflect Christ in what we decide?
Every time a decision presents itself, we should ask ourselves the same questions that Christ asked himself - some of which are macro questions, others are micro questions. We have to ask ourselves if our decision follows the guidelines of God's written word, if our decision reflects God's love, and if our decision is on God's agenda. After answering these macro questions, we need to ask some micro questions - is the decision the best possible choice considering our past decisions, present conditions and future aspirations.
This week, run your decisions through the macro and micro funnels of the right questions. As you ask yourself these questions, your decisions will filter down to reflect a perfect balance of what God wants - a balance of the decision making styles that Christ reflected. And as you discover the answers that God has in store, you will be much better equipped to negotiate the maze of life.
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
TDW 09-03-08 A Life of Pure and Holy Sacrifice
By: Oswald Chambers
(A Life of Pure and Holy Sacrifice)
He who believes in Me . . . out of his heart will flow . . . —John 7:3
Jesus did not say, "He who believes in Me will realize all the blessings of the fullness of God," but, in essence, "He who believes in Me will have everything he receives escape out of him." Our Lord’s teaching was always anti-self-realization. His purpose is not the development of a person— His purpose is to make a person exactly like Himself, and the Son of God is characterized by self-expenditure. If we believe in Jesus, it is not what we gain but what He pours through us that really counts. God’s purpose is not simply to make us beautiful, plump grapes, but to make us grapes so that He may squeeze the sweetness out of us. Our spiritual life cannot be measured by success as the world measures it, but only by what God pours through us— and we cannot measure that at all.
When Mary of Bethany "broke the flask . . . of very costly oil . . . and poured it on [Jesus’] head," it was an act for which no one else saw any special occasion; in fact, ". . . there were some who . . . said, ’Why was this fragrant oil wasted?’ " (Mark 14:3-4 ). But Jesus commended Mary for her extravagant act of devotion, and said, ". . . wherever this gospel is preached . . . what this woman has done will also be told as a memorial to her" ( Mark 14:9 ). Our Lord is filled with overflowing joy whenever He sees any of us doing what Mary did— not being bound by a particular set of rules, but being totally surrendered to Him. God poured out the life of His Son "that the world through Him might be saved" ( John 3:17 ). Are we prepared to pour out our lives for Him?
"He who believes in Me . . . out of his heart will flow rivers of living water"— and hundreds of other lives will be continually refreshed. Now is the time for us to break "the flask" of our lives, to stop seeking our own satisfaction, and to pour out our lives before Him. Our Lord is asking who of us will do it for Him?
(A Life of Pure and Holy Sacrifice)
He who believes in Me . . . out of his heart will flow . . . —John 7:3
Jesus did not say, "He who believes in Me will realize all the blessings of the fullness of God," but, in essence, "He who believes in Me will have everything he receives escape out of him." Our Lord’s teaching was always anti-self-realization. His purpose is not the development of a person— His purpose is to make a person exactly like Himself, and the Son of God is characterized by self-expenditure. If we believe in Jesus, it is not what we gain but what He pours through us that really counts. God’s purpose is not simply to make us beautiful, plump grapes, but to make us grapes so that He may squeeze the sweetness out of us. Our spiritual life cannot be measured by success as the world measures it, but only by what God pours through us— and we cannot measure that at all.
When Mary of Bethany "broke the flask . . . of very costly oil . . . and poured it on [Jesus’] head," it was an act for which no one else saw any special occasion; in fact, ". . . there were some who . . . said, ’Why was this fragrant oil wasted?’ " (Mark 14:3-4 ). But Jesus commended Mary for her extravagant act of devotion, and said, ". . . wherever this gospel is preached . . . what this woman has done will also be told as a memorial to her" ( Mark 14:9 ). Our Lord is filled with overflowing joy whenever He sees any of us doing what Mary did— not being bound by a particular set of rules, but being totally surrendered to Him. God poured out the life of His Son "that the world through Him might be saved" ( John 3:17 ). Are we prepared to pour out our lives for Him?
"He who believes in Me . . . out of his heart will flow rivers of living water"— and hundreds of other lives will be continually refreshed. Now is the time for us to break "the flask" of our lives, to stop seeking our own satisfaction, and to pour out our lives before Him. Our Lord is asking who of us will do it for Him?
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
TDW 09-02-08 Pursuing the Image of Righteousness
Today’s devotional is comprised of Biblical scriptures, written by Paul to a few of the early churches. Paul desperately wanted people to know that a place in God meant living a life free from intentional sin. During Paul’s ministry there were competing foolish beliefs arguing that the expectation of grace was sufficient in covering the acts of intentional sin, but Paul protested with the truth of the Holy Spirit. Paul wanted the church to know that their sinful acts did not glorify God nor did they promote the privilege of grace. Paul reminded the people that Christ was the standard of living not human opinion and they had been baptized into that standard of Jesus via His Death, resurrection and His Glory. Thus, the Church must walk in the light knowing they had died to sin’s slavery and were no longer practicing captives. As such, Paul wanted the early converts to understand that they had been transformed by Christ and were called to live a life in the world but not of the world.
Today, same baptism and transformation applies to the full body of Christ and His church. Although grace is afforded, it is not a guaranteed mandate nor is it a trump card to be played against judgment. Thus we must keep on living within the standard of Christ so that we may joyfully reach the Kingdom of God. Therefore, as we move about in this day, let us not be foolish in our daily living, but let us be molded examples of truthful humility, as well as God’s purposeful will and victory over sin…..JC
Error never shows itself in it naked reality, in order to not be discovered. On the contrary, it is dressed elegantly, so that the unwary may be led to believe that it is more truthful than truth itself. - Irenaeus of Lyons
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TDW 09-02-08 Pursuing the Image of Righteousness
From: The Epistles of Paul
(Pursuing the Image of Righteousness)
Ephesians 5:1-17
1Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children 2and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.
3But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God's holy people. 4Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. 5For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person—such a man is an idolater—has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.[a] 6Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God's wrath comes on those who are disobedient. 7Therefore do not be partners with them.
8For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light 9(for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) 10and find out what pleases the Lord. 11Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. 12For it is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret. 13But everything exposed by the light becomes visible, 14for it is light that makes everything visible. This is why it is said:
"Wake up, O sleeper,
rise from the dead,
and Christ will shine on you."
15Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, 16making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. 17Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is.
Galatians 5:19-21
19The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.
Romans 6:1-7
1What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? 2By no means! We died to sin; how can we live in it any longer? 3Or don't you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? 4We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.
5If we have been united with him like this in his death, we will certainly also be united with him in his resurrection. 6For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin— 7because anyone who has died has been freed from sin.
Romans 12:2-3
2Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
3For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you.
Prayer
Eternal God, I thank you for pouring out your love on the cross, so that I might have an opportunity to live free from the death of sin. Allow me to walk in your light daily so that the world may come to know You better through my example. It is in the name of Jesus the Christ that I pray, Amen.
Today, same baptism and transformation applies to the full body of Christ and His church. Although grace is afforded, it is not a guaranteed mandate nor is it a trump card to be played against judgment. Thus we must keep on living within the standard of Christ so that we may joyfully reach the Kingdom of God. Therefore, as we move about in this day, let us not be foolish in our daily living, but let us be molded examples of truthful humility, as well as God’s purposeful will and victory over sin…..JC
Error never shows itself in it naked reality, in order to not be discovered. On the contrary, it is dressed elegantly, so that the unwary may be led to believe that it is more truthful than truth itself. - Irenaeus of Lyons
*************************************************************************************
TDW 09-02-08 Pursuing the Image of Righteousness
From: The Epistles of Paul
(Pursuing the Image of Righteousness)
Ephesians 5:1-17
1Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children 2and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.
3But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God's holy people. 4Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. 5For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person—such a man is an idolater—has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.[a] 6Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God's wrath comes on those who are disobedient. 7Therefore do not be partners with them.
8For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light 9(for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) 10and find out what pleases the Lord. 11Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. 12For it is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret. 13But everything exposed by the light becomes visible, 14for it is light that makes everything visible. This is why it is said:
"Wake up, O sleeper,
rise from the dead,
and Christ will shine on you."
15Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, 16making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. 17Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is.
Galatians 5:19-21
19The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.
Romans 6:1-7
1What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? 2By no means! We died to sin; how can we live in it any longer? 3Or don't you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? 4We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.
5If we have been united with him like this in his death, we will certainly also be united with him in his resurrection. 6For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin— 7because anyone who has died has been freed from sin.
Romans 12:2-3
2Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
3For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you.
Prayer
Eternal God, I thank you for pouring out your love on the cross, so that I might have an opportunity to live free from the death of sin. Allow me to walk in your light daily so that the world may come to know You better through my example. It is in the name of Jesus the Christ that I pray, Amen.
Monday, September 1, 2008
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