Monday’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Jeremiah 17
NT: 1 Corinthians 15
W&W: Psalm 101
Tuesday’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Jeremiah 18
NT: 1 Corinthians 16
W&W: Psalm 102
Wednesday’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Jeremiah 19-20
NT: 2 Corinthians 1
W&W: Psalm 103
Thursday’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Jeremiah 21-22
NT: 2 Corinthians 2
W&W: Psalm 104.1-23
Friday’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Jeremiah 23-24
NT: 2 Corinthians 3
W&W: Psalm 104.24-35
Today’s Reflection:
In 1 Corinthians 16, we get a glimpse into the interactions between New Testament leaders. Paul makes the statement, “Now about our brother Apollos: I strongly urged him to go to you with the brothers. He was quite unwilling to go now, but he will go when he has the opportunity” (v. 12).
It is apparent that Paul and Apollos disagreed about when Apollos should go to Corinth. It seems possible – from the tone – that they may have disagreed even about whether or not Apollos needed to go at all. Paul thought that Apollos should go now. Apollos felt that now was not the time. Neither of them changed their mind – by evidence of what Paul wrote and by what Apollos did (actually what he didn’t do – go!).
These followers of Jesus Christ agreed to disagree. And, they were agreeable bout it! Both of them refused to make a “heaven or hell issue” out of it. They each had their opinion. They doubtless felt they had good reasons for their opinions as they kept their opinions. But, they extended grace to one another.
I found it interesting that - though Paul was the “ranking” leader – Apollos’ decision won the day. I wonder how many leaders are strong enough in their own egos to allow a subordinate to set a course different from what the leader thinks.
I entitled this post as “Do You Always Want Your Way?” Obviously, the answer to that question is “Yes! Of course I want my way. If I wanted something else, that would be my way!” The more important question to answer is this: “Must I always have my way?” Paul was willing to lay aside rights and privileges and power and authority in order to allow an emerging leader develop. May God give us in leadership grace like that!
This Week’s Scripture to Memorize:
Let’s put together that great passage in Matthew we’ve been working on all month. Matthew 7.7-12: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened. "Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him! So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Don’t Be Stupid!
Yesterday’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Jeremiah 13
NT: 1 Corinthians 12
W&W: Psalm 98
Today’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Jeremiah 14
NT: 1 Corinthians 13
W&W: Psalm 99
Tomorrow’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Jeremiah 15-16
NT: 1 Corinthians 14
W&W: Psalm 100
Today’s Reflection:
I’m sitting here in beautiful San Diego, California awaiting the day to begin in earnest. Four of us are here (and one is arriving later today) for a conference at Point Loma Nazarene University. My schedule is disrupted – again – and so you have yesterday’s, today’s and tomorrow’s scripture in one package.
The Apostle Paul wrote to the Corinthians (a church that prided themselves on their spiritual giftedness): “Now, about spiritual gifts, brothers, I do not want you to be ignorant” (1 Corinthians 12.1). What an appropriate scripture for the day a group from our church is enroute to San Diego to learn about how to apply our strengths in the church! We are going to a Gallup Strengthsfinder© training event at Point Loma Nazarene University.
I don’t want to be ignorant about spiritual gifts, both for my sake and for the sake of the church I pastor. My prayer is this: “O God, help me understand and teach both spiritual gifts and personal strengths. Help me understand the difference between them. Help me to use this understanding in leading your church.”
One of the most important things to understand about spiritual gifts and personal strengths is this: God gives them by his grace:
· The gift, the talent is given not to me, but through me to the church.
· The gift, the talent is not for me; it is for you.
· When I exercise it in serving you, it is not from me, but from God.
How do you view your giftedness and talents? This scripture reminds us: “Don’t be stupid! The gifts are from God and for the church!”
This Week’s Scripture to Memorize:
Matthew 7.12: So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.
OT: Jeremiah 13
NT: 1 Corinthians 12
W&W: Psalm 98
Today’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Jeremiah 14
NT: 1 Corinthians 13
W&W: Psalm 99
Tomorrow’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Jeremiah 15-16
NT: 1 Corinthians 14
W&W: Psalm 100
Today’s Reflection:
I’m sitting here in beautiful San Diego, California awaiting the day to begin in earnest. Four of us are here (and one is arriving later today) for a conference at Point Loma Nazarene University. My schedule is disrupted – again – and so you have yesterday’s, today’s and tomorrow’s scripture in one package.
The Apostle Paul wrote to the Corinthians (a church that prided themselves on their spiritual giftedness): “Now, about spiritual gifts, brothers, I do not want you to be ignorant” (1 Corinthians 12.1). What an appropriate scripture for the day a group from our church is enroute to San Diego to learn about how to apply our strengths in the church! We are going to a Gallup Strengthsfinder© training event at Point Loma Nazarene University.
I don’t want to be ignorant about spiritual gifts, both for my sake and for the sake of the church I pastor. My prayer is this: “O God, help me understand and teach both spiritual gifts and personal strengths. Help me understand the difference between them. Help me to use this understanding in leading your church.”
One of the most important things to understand about spiritual gifts and personal strengths is this: God gives them by his grace:
· The gift, the talent is given not to me, but through me to the church.
· The gift, the talent is not for me; it is for you.
· When I exercise it in serving you, it is not from me, but from God.
How do you view your giftedness and talents? This scripture reminds us: “Don’t be stupid! The gifts are from God and for the church!”
This Week’s Scripture to Memorize:
Matthew 7.12: So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Black and White
Today’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Jeremiah 12
NT: 1 Corinthians 11
W&W: Psalm 97
Today’s Reflection:
The Psalmist said, “Let those who love the Lord, hate evil” (Psalm 97.10).
When I read that scripture, my mind went to other verses in the Bible that help us understand and apply this:
This Week’s Scripture to Memorize:
Matthew 7.12: So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.
OT: Jeremiah 12
NT: 1 Corinthians 11
W&W: Psalm 97
Today’s Reflection:
The Psalmist said, “Let those who love the Lord, hate evil” (Psalm 97.10).
When I read that scripture, my mind went to other verses in the Bible that help us understand and apply this:
- John wrote: “Do not love the world or anything in the world…” (1 John 2.15).
- David wrote: “Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the ungodly or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers…” (Psalm 1.1).
- David also wrote: “Do I not hate those who hate you, O Lord, and abhor those who rise up against you?” (Psalm 139.21).
- Jesus himself said, “No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money” (Matthew 6.24).
This Week’s Scripture to Memorize:
Matthew 7.12: So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.
Monday, July 20, 2009
Commit Your Cause to God
Today’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Jeremiah 11
NT: 1 Corinthians 10
W&W: Psalm 96
Today’s Reflection:
The Biblical prophet said, “To you I have committed my cause” (Jeremiah 11.20b). Can you say the same?
Have you ever been misrepresented? Have you ever felt that your work was either forgotten or disparaged? Have you ever felt the need to defend your integrity or your intentions? How easy it is to forget that God can be trusted! How easy to want to manage our lives ourselves. How easy to think that we have to be concerned with our reputation and results.
How freeing it is to leave our reputations and the results of our labors in God’s hands! Pray this: “Lord I have committed my cause to you. I know you will do what is right by me and by my work. You see my heart and know my mind. Lord, in mercy forgive my lack of trust, in grace supplant my weaknesses, and in justice make my righteousness shine like the noonday sun.”
Happy Monday!
This Week’s Scripture to Memorize:
Matthew 7.12: So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.
OT: Jeremiah 11
NT: 1 Corinthians 10
W&W: Psalm 96
Today’s Reflection:
The Biblical prophet said, “To you I have committed my cause” (Jeremiah 11.20b). Can you say the same?
Have you ever been misrepresented? Have you ever felt that your work was either forgotten or disparaged? Have you ever felt the need to defend your integrity or your intentions? How easy it is to forget that God can be trusted! How easy to want to manage our lives ourselves. How easy to think that we have to be concerned with our reputation and results.
How freeing it is to leave our reputations and the results of our labors in God’s hands! Pray this: “Lord I have committed my cause to you. I know you will do what is right by me and by my work. You see my heart and know my mind. Lord, in mercy forgive my lack of trust, in grace supplant my weaknesses, and in justice make my righteousness shine like the noonday sun.”
Happy Monday!
This Week’s Scripture to Memorize:
Matthew 7.12: So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.
Friday, July 17, 2009
Fightin' Dogs
Yesterday’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Jeremiah 8
NT: 1 Corinthians 8
W&W: Psalm 94
Today’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Jeremiah 9-10
NT: 1 Corinthians 9
W&W: Psalm 95
Today’s Reflection:
This week I attended the conventions on our district. One of the speakers asked us to consider The Apostle Paul’s words: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4.7). We need to ask ourselves what fight we’re fighting. Too many times, we are fighting the wrong fight.
In any one day, there are so many things that we could get riled up over, so many opportunities to send our blood pressure soaring. But, are these things the good fight? Next time someone cuts you off in traffic or snubs you in a public setting and you want to respond with anger, ask yourself, “Is that worth fighting for?”
Sometimes, the cause may be good, but we simply don’t have a dog in that fight. If we fight too many battles, if we try to focus on too many fronts, we won’t win any battles. I have been overwhelmed this week at assembly by all the ideas. I need to listen carefully to my Commanding Officer’s orders. He knows what battles I need to engage.
My schedule has been so crazy for so long that I wonder if it will ever settle down.
Lana is recovering nicely and we are getting ready for a trip to the west coast next week for a conference with 3 others from our church. The next week it is a family reunion in NW Ohio.
Have a great weekend.
This Week’s Scripture to Memorize:
Matthew 7.9-11: Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!
OT: Jeremiah 8
NT: 1 Corinthians 8
W&W: Psalm 94
Today’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Jeremiah 9-10
NT: 1 Corinthians 9
W&W: Psalm 95
Today’s Reflection:
This week I attended the conventions on our district. One of the speakers asked us to consider The Apostle Paul’s words: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4.7). We need to ask ourselves what fight we’re fighting. Too many times, we are fighting the wrong fight.
In any one day, there are so many things that we could get riled up over, so many opportunities to send our blood pressure soaring. But, are these things the good fight? Next time someone cuts you off in traffic or snubs you in a public setting and you want to respond with anger, ask yourself, “Is that worth fighting for?”
Sometimes, the cause may be good, but we simply don’t have a dog in that fight. If we fight too many battles, if we try to focus on too many fronts, we won’t win any battles. I have been overwhelmed this week at assembly by all the ideas. I need to listen carefully to my Commanding Officer’s orders. He knows what battles I need to engage.
My schedule has been so crazy for so long that I wonder if it will ever settle down.
Lana is recovering nicely and we are getting ready for a trip to the west coast next week for a conference with 3 others from our church. The next week it is a family reunion in NW Ohio.
Have a great weekend.
This Week’s Scripture to Memorize:
Matthew 7.9-11: Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Do We Know How to Blush?
Yesterday’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Jeremiah 5
NT: 1 Corinthians 5
W&W: Psalm 91
Today’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Jeremiah 6
NT: 1 Corinthians 6
W&W: Psalm 92
Tomorrow’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Jeremiah 7
NT: 1 Corinthians 7
W&W: Psalm 93
Today’s Reflection:
Jeremiah 6.15 says, “They have no shame at all. They do not even know how to blush.”
How this describes our culture today. When entertainers can do any shameful thing and still be lauded for their “contributions to society” then I question what are we listening to and why. When politicians can say one thing while campaigning and then without so much as a blush say just the opposite, I feel a sense of hopelessness. When leaders decry – with great moral outrage – the sins of others and then are “caught with their pants down,” I wonder why they don’t listen to themselves.
Our great and free land is spiraling downward in the pursuit of pleasure and entertainment, in a mad rush to embrace relative truth, and in self-congratulatory hypocrisy. Are we being led by cultural icons, political pragmatists, and indulgent leaders to a place where we can no longer blush at sin?
I wonder.
But, there is hope in Jesus! He is the same “yesterday, today, and forever.” His Word is true and stands firm through the ages. He created all things and gives us life and hope, light and healing. We can turn to him with great confidence that he will heal our land. Our hope is indeed in him.
This Week’s Scripture to Memorize:
Matthew 7.9-11: Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!
OT: Jeremiah 5
NT: 1 Corinthians 5
W&W: Psalm 91
Today’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Jeremiah 6
NT: 1 Corinthians 6
W&W: Psalm 92
Tomorrow’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Jeremiah 7
NT: 1 Corinthians 7
W&W: Psalm 93
Today’s Reflection:
Jeremiah 6.15 says, “They have no shame at all. They do not even know how to blush.”
How this describes our culture today. When entertainers can do any shameful thing and still be lauded for their “contributions to society” then I question what are we listening to and why. When politicians can say one thing while campaigning and then without so much as a blush say just the opposite, I feel a sense of hopelessness. When leaders decry – with great moral outrage – the sins of others and then are “caught with their pants down,” I wonder why they don’t listen to themselves.
Our great and free land is spiraling downward in the pursuit of pleasure and entertainment, in a mad rush to embrace relative truth, and in self-congratulatory hypocrisy. Are we being led by cultural icons, political pragmatists, and indulgent leaders to a place where we can no longer blush at sin?
I wonder.
But, there is hope in Jesus! He is the same “yesterday, today, and forever.” His Word is true and stands firm through the ages. He created all things and gives us life and hope, light and healing. We can turn to him with great confidence that he will heal our land. Our hope is indeed in him.
This Week’s Scripture to Memorize:
Matthew 7.9-11: Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!
Friday, July 10, 2009
Be Encouraged By God’s Word
Yesterday’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Jeremiah 2
NT: 1 Corinthians 3
W&W: Psalm 89.46-52
Today’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Jeremiah 3
NT: 1 Corinthians 4
W&W: Psalm 90
Today’s Reflection:
After I went home last night, I realized that I had forgotten to post my blog yesterday! Again!!! I still haven't found the internet in Feesburg, so I just had to wait until today to post again. I'll get back in the groove of things next week! My week has been a bit unsettled with my wife's surgery and being out of the office a couple of days.
Another thing: I appreciate so much those who are followers of the blog. I haven't heard any comments in a while, though, so let me know if you are out there reading! Also, if you are a reader but haven't signed up to be a follower, please do so! I would love to know who is following and to receive comments from all of you.
How encouraging is God’s word to us. As I read Psalm 90, I was reminded that…
This Week’s Scripture to Memorize:
Matthew 7.7-8: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks find; and to him who knocks the door will be opened.
OT: Jeremiah 2
NT: 1 Corinthians 3
W&W: Psalm 89.46-52
Today’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Jeremiah 3
NT: 1 Corinthians 4
W&W: Psalm 90
Today’s Reflection:
After I went home last night, I realized that I had forgotten to post my blog yesterday! Again!!! I still haven't found the internet in Feesburg, so I just had to wait until today to post again. I'll get back in the groove of things next week! My week has been a bit unsettled with my wife's surgery and being out of the office a couple of days.
Another thing: I appreciate so much those who are followers of the blog. I haven't heard any comments in a while, though, so let me know if you are out there reading! Also, if you are a reader but haven't signed up to be a follower, please do so! I would love to know who is following and to receive comments from all of you.
How encouraging is God’s word to us. As I read Psalm 90, I was reminded that…
- God is our dwelling place and will be forever!
- We must take full advantage of every day, for we have been given only a certain number of days.
- We are, therefore, to live with the wisdom given by God.
- God will satisfy us in the morning with his eternal love.
We may thus sing joyfully all of our days. - As many (and more!) as are the days of our affliction so shall be the days of our blessings and victory.
- Oh for the favor of God on us to establish the work of our hands!
This Week’s Scripture to Memorize:
Matthew 7.7-8: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks find; and to him who knocks the door will be opened.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
I Appointed You as a Prophet
Today’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Jeremiah 1
NT: 1 Corinthians 2
W&W: Psalm 89.30-45
Today’s Reflection:
As I reflect on” today’s Old Testament reading, I rejoice that this is God’s Word to me.
“Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you; before you were born, I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.”
“Ah, Sovereign Lord, I do not know how to speak. I am only a child.”
“Do not say, ‘I am only a child.’ You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. Do not be afraid of them for I am with you and will rescue you.” Then the Lord reached out his hand and touched my mouth and said to me, “Now I have put my words in your mouth. See today I put you over nations and kingdoms…”
“Get yourself ready! Stand up and say to them whatever I command you. Do not be terrified by them, or I will terrify you before them. Today I have made you a fortified city, an iron pillar and a bronze wall to stand… I am with you and will rescue you.”
(Jeremiah 1.4-10, 17-19, emphasis added)
What encouraging words for a preacher! But, this is God’s Word for you, too! Just this morning, I was speaking with our postman here at the church, and he was telling me about a book he wants me to read. He said, “It is a convicting book about witnessing to those who don’t know Christ as their Savior. It really gets people on fire.” I liked that. I want to be on fire for God’s work. I want my church to be on fire for God.
As I said, Jeremiah’s prophecy is for you, too. Rejoice that God has set you apart as a witness for his Kingdom. Let him touch your mouth and give you words. Don’t be afraid!
This Week’s Scripture to Memorize:
Matthew 7.7-8: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks find; and to him who knocks the door will be opened.
OT: Jeremiah 1
NT: 1 Corinthians 2
W&W: Psalm 89.30-45
Today’s Reflection:
As I reflect on” today’s Old Testament reading, I rejoice that this is God’s Word to me.
“Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you; before you were born, I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.”
“Ah, Sovereign Lord, I do not know how to speak. I am only a child.”
“Do not say, ‘I am only a child.’ You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. Do not be afraid of them for I am with you and will rescue you.” Then the Lord reached out his hand and touched my mouth and said to me, “Now I have put my words in your mouth. See today I put you over nations and kingdoms…”
“Get yourself ready! Stand up and say to them whatever I command you. Do not be terrified by them, or I will terrify you before them. Today I have made you a fortified city, an iron pillar and a bronze wall to stand… I am with you and will rescue you.”
(Jeremiah 1.4-10, 17-19, emphasis added)
What encouraging words for a preacher! But, this is God’s Word for you, too! Just this morning, I was speaking with our postman here at the church, and he was telling me about a book he wants me to read. He said, “It is a convicting book about witnessing to those who don’t know Christ as their Savior. It really gets people on fire.” I liked that. I want to be on fire for God’s work. I want my church to be on fire for God.
As I said, Jeremiah’s prophecy is for you, too. Rejoice that God has set you apart as a witness for his Kingdom. Let him touch your mouth and give you words. Don’t be afraid!
This Week’s Scripture to Memorize:
Matthew 7.7-8: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks find; and to him who knocks the door will be opened.
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Ask for Healing
Yesterday’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Isaiah 64-65
NT: Romans 16
W&W: Psalm 89.1-13
Today’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Isaiah 66
NT: 1 Corinthians 1
W&W: Psalm 89.14-29
Today’s Reflection:
Sorry I missed posting yesterday. I was with Lana at the hospital. She is scheduled for gall bladder surgery today, and I need to run up there right now.
I thank God that we believe in the Bible doctrine of divine healing. I thank God that he heals through the means of medical science as well as through miraculous interventions. I am confident that God will help the doctors and that he also will give Lana a specific touch of healing for her recovery.
As this week’s scripture reminds us: Ask and it will be given you! Join me in asking God for a successful surgery and speedy recovery! Also, if you have need of a touch from God, let me know. I will pray for you, too!
This Week’s Scripture to Memorize:
Matthew 7.7-8: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks find; and to him who knocks the door will be opened.
OT: Isaiah 64-65
NT: Romans 16
W&W: Psalm 89.1-13
Today’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Isaiah 66
NT: 1 Corinthians 1
W&W: Psalm 89.14-29
Today’s Reflection:
Sorry I missed posting yesterday. I was with Lana at the hospital. She is scheduled for gall bladder surgery today, and I need to run up there right now.
I thank God that we believe in the Bible doctrine of divine healing. I thank God that he heals through the means of medical science as well as through miraculous interventions. I am confident that God will help the doctors and that he also will give Lana a specific touch of healing for her recovery.
As this week’s scripture reminds us: Ask and it will be given you! Join me in asking God for a successful surgery and speedy recovery! Also, if you have need of a touch from God, let me know. I will pray for you, too!
This Week’s Scripture to Memorize:
Matthew 7.7-8: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks find; and to him who knocks the door will be opened.
Friday, July 3, 2009
In the Morning
Today’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Isaiah 63
NT: Romans 15
W&W: Psalm 88
Today’s Reflection:
The Psalmist said, “I cry to you for help, O LORD; in the morning my prayer comes before you (Psalm 88.13).
Is that your practice? To cry out to God in the morning? As I have read the Psalms, I have noticed several places where the morning prayer is mentioned. Several times in the New Testament, we find Jesus praying in the morning. I think it is a good discipline to engage in. I have made it my practice so long that it just doesn’t seem right to begin the day any other way. Besides, if I wait for the evening, there are so many things that pull me away from prayer that it just seems impossible to really develop a pattern.
God is faithful no matter when we pray to him, but if we will consecrate the day from the very beginning, most of us will develop a more consistent pattern of prayer. Too early? I know what you mean, but prayer is too important to leave to chance. Jesus himself had to get up before anyone else so he could find time alone with his Father. Not a bad idea for us, either!
This Week’s Scripture to Memorize:
Did you get the whole chapter? John 1.1-10: 1That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched—this we proclaim concerning the Word of life. 2The life appeared; we have seen it and testify to it, and we proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and has appeared to us. 3We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. 4We write this to make our joy complete. 5This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. 6If we claim to have fellowship with him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth. 7But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin. 8If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. 9If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 10If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word has no place in our lives.
OT: Isaiah 63
NT: Romans 15
W&W: Psalm 88
Today’s Reflection:
The Psalmist said, “I cry to you for help, O LORD; in the morning my prayer comes before you (Psalm 88.13).
Is that your practice? To cry out to God in the morning? As I have read the Psalms, I have noticed several places where the morning prayer is mentioned. Several times in the New Testament, we find Jesus praying in the morning. I think it is a good discipline to engage in. I have made it my practice so long that it just doesn’t seem right to begin the day any other way. Besides, if I wait for the evening, there are so many things that pull me away from prayer that it just seems impossible to really develop a pattern.
God is faithful no matter when we pray to him, but if we will consecrate the day from the very beginning, most of us will develop a more consistent pattern of prayer. Too early? I know what you mean, but prayer is too important to leave to chance. Jesus himself had to get up before anyone else so he could find time alone with his Father. Not a bad idea for us, either!
This Week’s Scripture to Memorize:
Did you get the whole chapter? John 1.1-10: 1That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched—this we proclaim concerning the Word of life. 2The life appeared; we have seen it and testify to it, and we proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and has appeared to us. 3We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. 4We write this to make our joy complete. 5This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. 6If we claim to have fellowship with him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth. 7But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin. 8If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. 9If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 10If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word has no place in our lives.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Setting the Bar High
Today’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Isaiah 62
NT: Romans 14
W&W: Psalm 87
Today’s Reflection:
Romans 14 is a wonderfully challenging chapter in the Bible. Every Christian should read it regularly and it would be a help to anyone wishing to be a better person. In light of yesterday’s teaching from Romans 13 on our debt of love, it is particularly appropriate that Romans 14 deals very specifically with how we can make payments on that debt.
If you have ever – like me – been tempted to insist on your rights, hear again the Word of God from Romans 14:
Accept him whose faith is weak, without passing judgment on disputable matters (v. 1). For none of us lives to himself alone and none of us dies to himself alone. 8If we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord (vv 7-8). Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother's way (v. 13). Do not allow what you consider good to be spoken of as evil. For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit, because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and approved by men. Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification (vv 16-19).
High standards for us all. Don’t be negative, critical, judgmental, or selfish. Instead be positive, supportive, merciful, and gracious. Don’t look for what’s wrong; look for what’s right! Instead of trying to humble your brother or sister in a mistake, look for what is right and help him or her overcome his stumblings. Pick him/her up! Don’t add your criticism to his/her failure and thus drive them lower.
Let us perfect love and holiness in fear of the Lord!
The Church of the Nazarene elected another GS last night: David Graves. But, uh oh, John Bowling rescinded his acceptance as GS this morning. So they’re back to voting in Orlando. Pray!
This Week’s Scripture to Memorize:
Dare we try a whole chapter? If you have been working on this by the week, you will be able to do it! John 1.1-10: 1That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched—this we proclaim concerning the Word of life. 2The life appeared; we have seen it and testify to it, and we proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and has appeared to us. 3We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. 4We write this to make our joy complete. 5This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. 6If we claim to have fellowship with him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth. 7But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin. 8If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. 9If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 10If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word has no place in our lives.
OT: Isaiah 62
NT: Romans 14
W&W: Psalm 87
Today’s Reflection:
Romans 14 is a wonderfully challenging chapter in the Bible. Every Christian should read it regularly and it would be a help to anyone wishing to be a better person. In light of yesterday’s teaching from Romans 13 on our debt of love, it is particularly appropriate that Romans 14 deals very specifically with how we can make payments on that debt.
If you have ever – like me – been tempted to insist on your rights, hear again the Word of God from Romans 14:
Accept him whose faith is weak, without passing judgment on disputable matters (v. 1). For none of us lives to himself alone and none of us dies to himself alone. 8If we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord (vv 7-8). Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother's way (v. 13). Do not allow what you consider good to be spoken of as evil. For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit, because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and approved by men. Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification (vv 16-19).
High standards for us all. Don’t be negative, critical, judgmental, or selfish. Instead be positive, supportive, merciful, and gracious. Don’t look for what’s wrong; look for what’s right! Instead of trying to humble your brother or sister in a mistake, look for what is right and help him or her overcome his stumblings. Pick him/her up! Don’t add your criticism to his/her failure and thus drive them lower.
Let us perfect love and holiness in fear of the Lord!
The Church of the Nazarene elected another GS last night: David Graves. But, uh oh, John Bowling rescinded his acceptance as GS this morning. So they’re back to voting in Orlando. Pray!
This Week’s Scripture to Memorize:
Dare we try a whole chapter? If you have been working on this by the week, you will be able to do it! John 1.1-10: 1That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched—this we proclaim concerning the Word of life. 2The life appeared; we have seen it and testify to it, and we proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and has appeared to us. 3We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. 4We write this to make our joy complete. 5This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. 6If we claim to have fellowship with him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth. 7But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin. 8If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. 9If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 10If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word has no place in our lives.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
IOU
Today’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Isaiah 61
NT: Romans 13
W&W: Psalm 86
Today’s Reflection:
Romans 13.8 says, “Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another.”
As I write the blog this morning, I am listening to the proceedings of the General Assembly of the Church of the Nazarene. At this moment, they are debating a resolution concerning care to immigrants, regardless of documentation and legal status. A delegate from a non-North American nation reminded us that there are millions of people who are “illegals” and “aliens” in their own land because of oppressive politics. It is in these very areas that the church is experiencing its most dramatic growth.
I have been an alien to God’s mercy, haven’t you? I am a debtor to love! God has so loved me that I must love my brother. There is no way that I could ever repay all God’s love, so I will have to make continual payments of love to those he loves! Praise the Lord! I will always be bound – in duty and in debt – to my Lord and Master Jesus Christ.
By the way, we have two new General Superintendents in the Church of the Nazarene: Eugenio Duarte (first non-American GS in the Church of the Nazarene!) and John Bowling (President of Olivet Nazarene University). Pray for these men and for the election of the third GS as the ballots are cast today.
This Week’s Scripture to Memorize:
Dare we try a whole chapter? If you have been working on this by the week, you will be able to do it! John 1.1-10: 1That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched—this we proclaim concerning the Word of life. 2The life appeared; we have seen it and testify to it, and we proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and has appeared to us. 3We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. 4We write this to make our joy complete. 5This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. 6If we claim to have fellowship with him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth. 7But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin. 8If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. 9If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 10If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word has no place in our lives.
OT: Isaiah 61
NT: Romans 13
W&W: Psalm 86
Today’s Reflection:
Romans 13.8 says, “Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another.”
As I write the blog this morning, I am listening to the proceedings of the General Assembly of the Church of the Nazarene. At this moment, they are debating a resolution concerning care to immigrants, regardless of documentation and legal status. A delegate from a non-North American nation reminded us that there are millions of people who are “illegals” and “aliens” in their own land because of oppressive politics. It is in these very areas that the church is experiencing its most dramatic growth.
I have been an alien to God’s mercy, haven’t you? I am a debtor to love! God has so loved me that I must love my brother. There is no way that I could ever repay all God’s love, so I will have to make continual payments of love to those he loves! Praise the Lord! I will always be bound – in duty and in debt – to my Lord and Master Jesus Christ.
By the way, we have two new General Superintendents in the Church of the Nazarene: Eugenio Duarte (first non-American GS in the Church of the Nazarene!) and John Bowling (President of Olivet Nazarene University). Pray for these men and for the election of the third GS as the ballots are cast today.
This Week’s Scripture to Memorize:
Dare we try a whole chapter? If you have been working on this by the week, you will be able to do it! John 1.1-10: 1That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched—this we proclaim concerning the Word of life. 2The life appeared; we have seen it and testify to it, and we proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and has appeared to us. 3We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. 4We write this to make our joy complete. 5This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. 6If we claim to have fellowship with him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth. 7But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin. 8If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. 9If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 10If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word has no place in our lives.
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