July 31
An Audience of One
John 21:22 Jesus answered, "If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow Me."
For several weeks I awoke with heaviness over me. It seemed it did not matter how much I prayed or how much I read the Scriptures. Finally, one night I was reading a book by Os Guinness that described the conversation between Jesus and Peter. God had just commissioned Peter in the famous "Peter, do you love Me" passage of Scripture. This was after Jesus' resurrection. Jesus was calling Peter to feed His sheep, and He informed Peter of the death he would encounter for following Him. But Peter had a question. He wondered what was going to happen to John. Would John have the same trials, the same responsibility, as Peter? Jesus quickly retorted to Peter, "What is that to you?"
That night I realized I was guilty of envy. I had several friends who were now "making it" in business. I began to compare where I was in life. It brought me into a state of depression. Once I realized this, I asked the Lord to forgive me. I knew in my head I was to have only one audience-the audience of One. That knowledge needed to get to my heart. I also knew I was experiencing spiritual warfare in the area of unbelief.
The next morning I awoke, and as I normally do, I checked my e-mail to see what the devotional was for that day that is sent to other businesspeople. Although I write the devotional myself, I read it because I get letters from readers regarding the devotionals. To my shock, the devotional was on this same passage of Scripture. It talked about the sin of envy. I was amused by God's sense of humor, as He convicted me with my own devotional message. But that was not the end of it.
That day I went to lunch with a friend. After lunch I got into my car. I turned on the radio and Os Guinness, the author of the same book I was reading the night before, was being interviewed. They were talking about the discourse between Jesus and Peter and the sin of envy! I was floored! "Okay, God, I get the message!"
The Holy Spirit has an uncanny ability to communicate to us. The Lord wanted me to know that I am not to worry about someone else. God has called us to a unique life that may look totally different from anyone else's life. Once we begin to compare ourselves to others, we begin to live for others and ourselves.
There is only one audience we should be living for-the audience of One. Ask the Lord today if you are living solely for His pleasure.
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Monday, July 30, 2007
You are Special
You are Special
This devotional was written by Jim Burns
You created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.— Psalm 139:13-16
You are unique. You are special. God created you, and there is not another person in the world exactly like you. True, there are things about us that we really don't like. I wish I were taller, richer, and more intelligent. There are some aspects of our lives that we can work on to improve and other aspects that we must learn to accept. The people who learn to accept the good with the bad are the ones who find happiness. Cathy and I have a prayer hung up in our bathroom that helps me when I'm feeling less than good about myself and the circumstances in my life. It simply reads:
God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change those I can, and wisdom to know the difference.
Great advice for those who sometimes forget they are special in the eyes of God!
This devotional was written by Jim Burns
You created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.— Psalm 139:13-16
You are unique. You are special. God created you, and there is not another person in the world exactly like you. True, there are things about us that we really don't like. I wish I were taller, richer, and more intelligent. There are some aspects of our lives that we can work on to improve and other aspects that we must learn to accept. The people who learn to accept the good with the bad are the ones who find happiness. Cathy and I have a prayer hung up in our bathroom that helps me when I'm feeling less than good about myself and the circumstances in my life. It simply reads:
God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change those I can, and wisdom to know the difference.
Great advice for those who sometimes forget they are special in the eyes of God!
Sunday, July 29, 2007
What Plans
July 27, 2007
What Plans?
Lisa Whittle
We hope you are enjoying the Girlfriends in God daily devotions. We (Mary, Sharon, and Gwen) would like to introduce you to some of our special friends. From time-to-time, the Friday devotions will be written by one of our friends in ministry. We call them our "Friday Friends." So grab your Bible and a fresh cup of coffee and drink in the words from our "Friday Friend", Lisa Whittle.
Today’s Truth
“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord…plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11 NIV)
Friend to Friend
It was a seemingly good plan that went awry. Larry Walters, a truck driver living in L.A., had a lifelong dream of flying an airplane. He had tried different things throughout his life to get to fly a plane, but because of his poor eyesight, he was legally disqualified to do so. But he dreamed about it, and he was determined that one day he would do it.
His desire to fly caused him to take drastic measures. He purchased 45 heavy-duty weather balloons and several tanks of helium. Strapping the balloons to his lawn chair, Larry tied the chair to his Jeep and inflated the balloons with helium. He sat down and prepared to cut the rope, planning on drifting up a hundred feet in the air – just high enough to fulfill his dream of flying and look over the rooftops of his L.A. neighborhood. But when he cut the rope, instead of floating lazily up in the sky a hundred feet as he had planned…he instead shot up in the air like a rocket until he eventually got to nearly
16, 000 feet. After descending into power lines and causing a blackout in a nearby neighborhood, Larry Walters was ultimately able to climb safely to the ground without further incident.
When he reached the ground, the news media was there, waiting to interview him. Asked by one of them, “Why did you do it, Larry?” he paused and said, “A man can’t just sit around… It was something I had to do. I had this dream for twenty years….” Though Larry’s dream was a bust, it was not for lack of trying.
Like Larry, we are a society full of hopeful life planners with many goals and dreams. As women, we make plans for things everyday; only to realize that our plans rarely work out the way we want them to. Though we make our plans, Psalm 138:8 reminds us of God intentions: “The Lord will work out the plans for my life; don’t abandon me, Lord, for you created me.” Right now, right this very minute; He is working out His plans for both my life and your life. Despite all of our planning, He has the bases already covered. And the truth is that any plan we might have would never be a better plan than the ones He has for us.
Let’s pray
Father, forgive me for trying to create my own set of plans for my life. You are the all-knowing, all-powerful and ever present God who has a perfect set of plans already in place for me. Give me the strength and courage to stop all the planning and start trusting you to work things out on my behalf.
Now it’s your turn
1) Recognize that it is all about surrender. (…”I know, Lord, that a person’s life is not his own. No one is able to plan his own course.” Jeremiah 10:23)
2) Reject the desire to take control. (“Submit to God and be at peace with Him…” Job 22:21a)
3) Rest in the knowledge that He is working things out on your behalf. (“The Lord will work out the plans for my life; don’t abandon me, Lord, for you created me.” Psalm 138:8)
More from the Girls
Though all of us have dreams and plans, it’s a beautiful thing to surrender to the will of God and trust Him with your life. Only then will he be able to show you all the wonderful things He has to offer you. Will you join me in the faith journey, friends, as we relinquish control and rest in His sovereignty?
What Plans?
Lisa Whittle
We hope you are enjoying the Girlfriends in God daily devotions. We (Mary, Sharon, and Gwen) would like to introduce you to some of our special friends. From time-to-time, the Friday devotions will be written by one of our friends in ministry. We call them our "Friday Friends." So grab your Bible and a fresh cup of coffee and drink in the words from our "Friday Friend", Lisa Whittle.
Today’s Truth
“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord…plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11 NIV)
Friend to Friend
It was a seemingly good plan that went awry. Larry Walters, a truck driver living in L.A., had a lifelong dream of flying an airplane. He had tried different things throughout his life to get to fly a plane, but because of his poor eyesight, he was legally disqualified to do so. But he dreamed about it, and he was determined that one day he would do it.
His desire to fly caused him to take drastic measures. He purchased 45 heavy-duty weather balloons and several tanks of helium. Strapping the balloons to his lawn chair, Larry tied the chair to his Jeep and inflated the balloons with helium. He sat down and prepared to cut the rope, planning on drifting up a hundred feet in the air – just high enough to fulfill his dream of flying and look over the rooftops of his L.A. neighborhood. But when he cut the rope, instead of floating lazily up in the sky a hundred feet as he had planned…he instead shot up in the air like a rocket until he eventually got to nearly
16, 000 feet. After descending into power lines and causing a blackout in a nearby neighborhood, Larry Walters was ultimately able to climb safely to the ground without further incident.
When he reached the ground, the news media was there, waiting to interview him. Asked by one of them, “Why did you do it, Larry?” he paused and said, “A man can’t just sit around… It was something I had to do. I had this dream for twenty years….” Though Larry’s dream was a bust, it was not for lack of trying.
Like Larry, we are a society full of hopeful life planners with many goals and dreams. As women, we make plans for things everyday; only to realize that our plans rarely work out the way we want them to. Though we make our plans, Psalm 138:8 reminds us of God intentions: “The Lord will work out the plans for my life; don’t abandon me, Lord, for you created me.” Right now, right this very minute; He is working out His plans for both my life and your life. Despite all of our planning, He has the bases already covered. And the truth is that any plan we might have would never be a better plan than the ones He has for us.
Let’s pray
Father, forgive me for trying to create my own set of plans for my life. You are the all-knowing, all-powerful and ever present God who has a perfect set of plans already in place for me. Give me the strength and courage to stop all the planning and start trusting you to work things out on my behalf.
Now it’s your turn
1) Recognize that it is all about surrender. (…”I know, Lord, that a person’s life is not his own. No one is able to plan his own course.” Jeremiah 10:23)
2) Reject the desire to take control. (“Submit to God and be at peace with Him…” Job 22:21a)
3) Rest in the knowledge that He is working things out on your behalf. (“The Lord will work out the plans for my life; don’t abandon me, Lord, for you created me.” Psalm 138:8)
More from the Girls
Though all of us have dreams and plans, it’s a beautiful thing to surrender to the will of God and trust Him with your life. Only then will he be able to show you all the wonderful things He has to offer you. Will you join me in the faith journey, friends, as we relinquish control and rest in His sovereignty?
Saturday, July 28, 2007
Pressing on
AMAZING! This devotional speaks to EXACTLY where I am at! Have a great Saturday!--
Living Free - July 27, 2007
Press On
Today's Scripture
I don't mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection. But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me. No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us. Philippians 3:12-14 NLT
Thoughts for Today
Many people begin the Christian life with excitement, expecting that everything will be different—immediately! They think that they will not have any desire to walk in the negative patterns they used to enjoy ... but that's just not the way it works.
Becoming a Christian means you are forgiven—not perfect. Receiving Jesus is not a "quick fix" for old habits and their consequences. Change takes time. And we can't rely on ourselves to make these changes. If we try to transform ourselves, we will always be disappointed. Transformation can only take place as we build our relationship with God by spending quality time with him praying and studying the Bible.
Consider this…Are you a new Christian and still struggling with old habits and their consequences? Or maybe you've been a Christian a long time but things from your past seem to be pressing in on you.
Perhaps you've tried and tried to overcome, but nothing seems to work. You might feel like a failure. You've let yourself, others and God down time and time again.
This is not the time to give up and run from God, ashamed and embarrassed. Instead, run to him. Ask for his forgiveness and his help. Follow the apostle Paul's example. He knew he hadn't achieved perfection, but he put the past behind and pressed on—focusing on becoming and doing all God had called him to. Learn from your past, leave it behind ... and press on.
Prayer
Father, I thank you for continuing to love me, even when I let you down. Forgive me for all those times. Help me to learn from past mistakes, but not to dwell on them. Help me to look ahead and to press on to become all you have designed me to be and to accomplish the purpose of my journey.
These thoughts adapted from…Completely Free! by Dan Strickland. This group study of Romans 1-8 and 12 helps Christians break out of the dull routine of a stagnant spiritual life. Applying the truths found in Romans can transform any believer into a person eager to follow God’s will. This study can also serve as a powerful evangelistic tool by explaining the message of salvation as presented in Romans. Suggested uses include home Bible studies, cell groups, Sunday school classes, support groups and personal enrichment.
Living Free - July 27, 2007
Press On
Today's Scripture
I don't mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection. But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me. No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us. Philippians 3:12-14 NLT
Thoughts for Today
Many people begin the Christian life with excitement, expecting that everything will be different—immediately! They think that they will not have any desire to walk in the negative patterns they used to enjoy ... but that's just not the way it works.
Becoming a Christian means you are forgiven—not perfect. Receiving Jesus is not a "quick fix" for old habits and their consequences. Change takes time. And we can't rely on ourselves to make these changes. If we try to transform ourselves, we will always be disappointed. Transformation can only take place as we build our relationship with God by spending quality time with him praying and studying the Bible.
Consider this…Are you a new Christian and still struggling with old habits and their consequences? Or maybe you've been a Christian a long time but things from your past seem to be pressing in on you.
Perhaps you've tried and tried to overcome, but nothing seems to work. You might feel like a failure. You've let yourself, others and God down time and time again.
This is not the time to give up and run from God, ashamed and embarrassed. Instead, run to him. Ask for his forgiveness and his help. Follow the apostle Paul's example. He knew he hadn't achieved perfection, but he put the past behind and pressed on—focusing on becoming and doing all God had called him to. Learn from your past, leave it behind ... and press on.
Prayer
Father, I thank you for continuing to love me, even when I let you down. Forgive me for all those times. Help me to learn from past mistakes, but not to dwell on them. Help me to look ahead and to press on to become all you have designed me to be and to accomplish the purpose of my journey.
These thoughts adapted from…Completely Free! by Dan Strickland. This group study of Romans 1-8 and 12 helps Christians break out of the dull routine of a stagnant spiritual life. Applying the truths found in Romans can transform any believer into a person eager to follow God’s will. This study can also serve as a powerful evangelistic tool by explaining the message of salvation as presented in Romans. Suggested uses include home Bible studies, cell groups, Sunday school classes, support groups and personal enrichment.
Friday, July 27, 2007
Let Go and Take Hold
FRIDAY! FRIDAY! Woo Hoo!-----Have a fantabulous weekend! --LL
Greg Laurie Daily Devotion - July 27, 2007
Friday, July 27, 2007
Let Go and Take Hold
Suddenly Jesus appeared, leaned over the edge, and said, “Young man, reach out and take my hand, and I will save you. But first, you must let go of that branch you are holding on to.”
The man didn’t want to let go of the branch.
Jesus told him, “You must take hold of My hand and let go of the branch, or I cannot pull you up.”
The man paused for a minute and said, “Is anybody else up there?”
A lot of us don’t want to let go. We still want to hold on to a part of our old lives. But there has to be a moment in each of our lives in which we have recognized we are sinners and have asked for God’s forgiveness. Then Jesus Christ comes in. But we have to let go. Then some changes must take place.
The Bible says there is a spiritual blindness in all those who have not yet turned their lives over to Jesus Christ. So we must have our spiritual eyes opened. We must turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God (see Acts 26:18). As we yield to God and His will for our lives, then we will receive the forgiveness of sins. Then we will see the incredible benefits of making those changes.
But we have to let go of our branch and take hold of His hand.
Greg Laurie :: Harvest 07Free music featuring P.O.D., David Crowder Band, TobyMacAugust 3-5; Angel Stadium; webcast socal.harvest.org.
Greg Laurie Daily Devotion - July 27, 2007
Friday, July 27, 2007
Let Go and Take Hold
“For I, the Lord your God, will hold your right hand, saying to you, ‘Fear not, I will help you"—Isaiah 41:13
A man who fell over the side of a cliff was hanging on to a branch that was starting to give way. Recognizing it was only a matter of time before he would fall to his death, he shouted, “Is anybody up there? Somebody help me!”Suddenly Jesus appeared, leaned over the edge, and said, “Young man, reach out and take my hand, and I will save you. But first, you must let go of that branch you are holding on to.”
The man didn’t want to let go of the branch.
Jesus told him, “You must take hold of My hand and let go of the branch, or I cannot pull you up.”
The man paused for a minute and said, “Is anybody else up there?”
A lot of us don’t want to let go. We still want to hold on to a part of our old lives. But there has to be a moment in each of our lives in which we have recognized we are sinners and have asked for God’s forgiveness. Then Jesus Christ comes in. But we have to let go. Then some changes must take place.
The Bible says there is a spiritual blindness in all those who have not yet turned their lives over to Jesus Christ. So we must have our spiritual eyes opened. We must turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God (see Acts 26:18). As we yield to God and His will for our lives, then we will receive the forgiveness of sins. Then we will see the incredible benefits of making those changes.
But we have to let go of our branch and take hold of His hand.
Greg Laurie :: Harvest 07Free music featuring P.O.D., David Crowder Band, TobyMacAugust 3-5; Angel Stadium; webcast socal.harvest.org.
Thursday, July 26, 2007
Faith
Heartlight Daily Verse 7/26
July 26
Hebrews 11:1 Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.
Thoughts on today's verse
While the road ahead of us may be filled with questions and concerns, we can look back and see the many ways God has acted in our behalf to get us to the places we need to be. We see his work through history and we can take assurance that his promises are true and his victory in us is assured.
Prayer:
Almighty God, I believe that before there was a world, you existed. I trust that even now you sustain our world with your word of grace. I am confident that before the future arrives you are already there preparing it for us. Help me when I worry to remember my faith and to press on trusting that you are there. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
July 26
Hebrews 11:1 Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.
Thoughts on today's verse
While the road ahead of us may be filled with questions and concerns, we can look back and see the many ways God has acted in our behalf to get us to the places we need to be. We see his work through history and we can take assurance that his promises are true and his victory in us is assured.
Prayer:
Almighty God, I believe that before there was a world, you existed. I trust that even now you sustain our world with your word of grace. I am confident that before the future arrives you are already there preparing it for us. Help me when I worry to remember my faith and to press on trusting that you are there. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
From the Inside Out
From the Inside Out
Today's Scripture
So here's what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. Don't become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You'll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it. Unlike the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity, God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you. Romans 12:1-2 MSG
Thoughts for TodayAmerica—the land of opportunity where people are free to pursue their dreams and goals. This is a good thing, but it has bred an "I can do it myself" mentality. Self-sufficiency is a highly regarded trait. Self-improvement books sell by the thousands. And yet there are some things we cannot improve on our own.
Many of us suffer from self-destructive habits. Sometimes we have thoughts we know shouldn't be there. Display attitudes that cause pain to those we love the most. Do things that hurt us and those around us. We might want to change, but don't seem to be able to.
Real change is not something we can do though a self-improvement program. The change must come from inside, and that kind of change can only come from trusting Jesus.
Consider this…Are there changes you want to make in your life? Perhaps you've tried, but repeatedly failed. Good news! Jesus wants to help you. No problem is too big for him. Tell him how you feel (don't be embarrassed—he knows anyhow!). Tell him that you are sorry for trying to do things on your own, and invite him into your life. He will make all the difference.
Prayer
Lord, I commit all my habits, every part of my life to you. I thank you that through Jesus, I can receive forgiveness. As I focus on him, help me change from the inside out. Help me grow and mature according to your plan, not the world's mold.
Today's Scripture
So here's what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. Don't become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You'll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it. Unlike the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity, God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you. Romans 12:1-2 MSG
Thoughts for TodayAmerica—the land of opportunity where people are free to pursue their dreams and goals. This is a good thing, but it has bred an "I can do it myself" mentality. Self-sufficiency is a highly regarded trait. Self-improvement books sell by the thousands. And yet there are some things we cannot improve on our own.
Many of us suffer from self-destructive habits. Sometimes we have thoughts we know shouldn't be there. Display attitudes that cause pain to those we love the most. Do things that hurt us and those around us. We might want to change, but don't seem to be able to.
Real change is not something we can do though a self-improvement program. The change must come from inside, and that kind of change can only come from trusting Jesus.
Consider this…Are there changes you want to make in your life? Perhaps you've tried, but repeatedly failed. Good news! Jesus wants to help you. No problem is too big for him. Tell him how you feel (don't be embarrassed—he knows anyhow!). Tell him that you are sorry for trying to do things on your own, and invite him into your life. He will make all the difference.
Prayer
Lord, I commit all my habits, every part of my life to you. I thank you that through Jesus, I can receive forgiveness. As I focus on him, help me change from the inside out. Help me grow and mature according to your plan, not the world's mold.
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
God does His work in Caves
AMEN TO THIS! Here's to all my cavemen & cavewomen friends! --Love ya--- :0
HomeWord - July 24, 2007
God Does His Best Work in Caves
This devotional was written by Robin Dugall
David left Gath and escaped to the cave of Adullam—1 Samuel 22:1
Discouragement is a common emotion to us and is one of the great enemies of the Christ-following experience. It is an enemy of personal drive and vision. It is a cancer that will pull enthusiasm and joy right out of you. But it is also a test, because how you respond to discouragement when things are not going well is one of the most important challenges that you will ever face as a person who loves and follows Jesus.
During the reign of King Saul, a prophet of God, Samuel, anointed young David as king. Even before he served as king, the people of the kingdom immediately fell in love with David. Everything he touched turned to gold. He was victorious over one of Israel’s most feared enemies, Goliath. When King Saul struggled with emotional issues, David was there to comfort him. If there was ever a guy who was on a roll, it was David. It appeared that nothing could go wrong for him. Then, one by one, the tables turned. Look over this litany of loss on David’s part:
HomeWord - July 24, 2007
God Does His Best Work in Caves
This devotional was written by Robin Dugall
David left Gath and escaped to the cave of Adullam—1 Samuel 22:1
Discouragement is a common emotion to us and is one of the great enemies of the Christ-following experience. It is an enemy of personal drive and vision. It is a cancer that will pull enthusiasm and joy right out of you. But it is also a test, because how you respond to discouragement when things are not going well is one of the most important challenges that you will ever face as a person who loves and follows Jesus.
During the reign of King Saul, a prophet of God, Samuel, anointed young David as king. Even before he served as king, the people of the kingdom immediately fell in love with David. Everything he touched turned to gold. He was victorious over one of Israel’s most feared enemies, Goliath. When King Saul struggled with emotional issues, David was there to comfort him. If there was ever a guy who was on a roll, it was David. It appeared that nothing could go wrong for him. Then, one by one, the tables turned. Look over this litany of loss on David’s part:
- He lost his job. He went from shepherd boy to acclaimed warrior to fugitive.
- He lost his popularity, status and income.
- He lost his wife when King Saul gave her to another man.
- He lost his mentor when Samuel died.
- He lost his best friend Jonathan.
- He lost his home. The Bible tells us that he eventually ran to Gath, the land of Israel’s enemies.
- After all that David went through, he ended up in the cave of Adullam. He expected a palace but got a cave! Devastating!
Does a cave sound like a place you’ve visited before? The Cave is where you go when all the props, crutches, and all that hold you up gives way; when suddenly, things don’t work out as you’ve envisioned. Maybe you’ve lost a job, financial security, spouse, dream of family life, mentor, friend or health. We’ve all been there. The truth is, sooner or later, everybody logs some serious time in The Cave.
But, The Cave is where God does some of His best work. God molds and shapes us in The Cave like nowhere else. When you end up in The Cave, I encourage you to welcome it. Why? Because when all you’ve got is God, you quickly come to the realization, that He is enough. Mother Teresa once said, “You’ll never know Jesus is all you need, until Jesus is all you’ve got.” He is able to transform discouragement into encouragement. He transforms fear into confidence. He is able to bring new life out of the most desperate of circumstances. Are you in The Cave? Look for Jesus.
Monday, July 23, 2007
Storms
Greg Laurie Daily Devotion - July 23, 2007
Monday, July 23, 2007
The Day’s Curriculum
Immediately Jesus made His disciples get into the boat and go before Him to the other side, while He sent the multitudes away. —Matthew 14:22
Although He knew that a storm was coming, Jesus said to His disciples, “Go to the other side” (see Matthew 14:22–24). Jesus sent them out on the Sea of Galilee because He knew there was a lesson for them to learn. He knew they would make it safely to the other side, so He allowed His disciples to go through the storm. You might say the storm was a part of the day’s curriculum for the disciples.
Life is like that too. We don’t always know when a storm is coming. We don’t know when a tragedy will strike. We don’t know when a crisis is going to hit. We don’t know when a hardship may come up in our lives. But God does, and He knows when we are ready to face these things.
Now here is the question: How will we face life’s storms? It has been said that into every life some rain must fall. To put it biblically, the rain falls on the just and the unjust (see Mark 6:45). Hard times happen to everyone, but as Christians, we have this promise: “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28). Whatever we are going through, in His wonderful providence, God will turn it around for our good.
Courageous people are a lot like tea bags. We don’t know their strength until they are in hot water. It takes courage to face your trials. It takes courage to say, “I’ve made a commitment to follow Jesus. I’m not going to give up. I’m going over to the other side.”
Monday, July 23, 2007
The Day’s Curriculum
Immediately Jesus made His disciples get into the boat and go before Him to the other side, while He sent the multitudes away. —Matthew 14:22
Although He knew that a storm was coming, Jesus said to His disciples, “Go to the other side” (see Matthew 14:22–24). Jesus sent them out on the Sea of Galilee because He knew there was a lesson for them to learn. He knew they would make it safely to the other side, so He allowed His disciples to go through the storm. You might say the storm was a part of the day’s curriculum for the disciples.
Life is like that too. We don’t always know when a storm is coming. We don’t know when a tragedy will strike. We don’t know when a crisis is going to hit. We don’t know when a hardship may come up in our lives. But God does, and He knows when we are ready to face these things.
Now here is the question: How will we face life’s storms? It has been said that into every life some rain must fall. To put it biblically, the rain falls on the just and the unjust (see Mark 6:45). Hard times happen to everyone, but as Christians, we have this promise: “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28). Whatever we are going through, in His wonderful providence, God will turn it around for our good.
Courageous people are a lot like tea bags. We don’t know their strength until they are in hot water. It takes courage to face your trials. It takes courage to say, “I’ve made a commitment to follow Jesus. I’m not going to give up. I’m going over to the other side.”
Friday, July 20, 2007
Catching Foxes
From His Heart - Week of July 20
CATCHING FOXES
Catch the foxes for us, the little foxes that are ruining the vineyards, while our vineyards are in blossom. Song of Solomon 2:15
Have you ever noticed how little problems grow into big issues if not addressed?
A friend of mine had some annoying little problems in his business. Because he did not want to rock the boat, he chose not to address them. Within a year, the little foxes had grown into big elephants. Tragically, what he could have successfully dealt with early on became an overwhelming nightmare with huge repercussions.
God’s word is clear: Deal with the little foxes that are ruining the vineyards.
If little foxes are left unchecked, they become HUGE problems. Many marriages have ended in bitter divorce because the husband and wife swept things under the rug and did not deal with the little problems and hurts along the way. Many people have lost the anointing and power of God because they did not deal with the little foxes of resentment, compromise and subtle rebellion.
WHAT LITTLE FOX IS EATING YOUR VINEYARD?
When you really look at your life, is there an area where you see the little foxes running around? Is there some little sin that you have given a place in your heart? Maybe it is a little bit of bitterness because someone hurt your feelings (or hurt a friend’s feelings)… and you are just not willing to let it go. Maybe it is a little bit of sexual immorality (impure thoughts and actions). Maybe it is a little bit of compromise with the world. You are doing things that you know are wrong and going places you know do not please God. Mark it down: If you let the little foxes go unchecked, they will bring destruction, misery and chains.
The time is now to deal with the little foxes before they grow into big elephants. Go to the person you are bitter towards and get things right with them. Address the issues in your marriage that are causing you hurt and pain. Go to God with your secret sins and expose them to the light of His love.
God has saved us to live in victory… but victory will not be realized if we allow little sins to foul and fester. Do you believe that? If so, go out and catch a fox.
Love, Jeff Schreve, Pastor
CATCHING FOXES
Catch the foxes for us, the little foxes that are ruining the vineyards, while our vineyards are in blossom. Song of Solomon 2:15
Have you ever noticed how little problems grow into big issues if not addressed?
A friend of mine had some annoying little problems in his business. Because he did not want to rock the boat, he chose not to address them. Within a year, the little foxes had grown into big elephants. Tragically, what he could have successfully dealt with early on became an overwhelming nightmare with huge repercussions.
God’s word is clear: Deal with the little foxes that are ruining the vineyards.
If little foxes are left unchecked, they become HUGE problems. Many marriages have ended in bitter divorce because the husband and wife swept things under the rug and did not deal with the little problems and hurts along the way. Many people have lost the anointing and power of God because they did not deal with the little foxes of resentment, compromise and subtle rebellion.
WHAT LITTLE FOX IS EATING YOUR VINEYARD?
When you really look at your life, is there an area where you see the little foxes running around? Is there some little sin that you have given a place in your heart? Maybe it is a little bit of bitterness because someone hurt your feelings (or hurt a friend’s feelings)… and you are just not willing to let it go. Maybe it is a little bit of sexual immorality (impure thoughts and actions). Maybe it is a little bit of compromise with the world. You are doing things that you know are wrong and going places you know do not please God. Mark it down: If you let the little foxes go unchecked, they will bring destruction, misery and chains.
The time is now to deal with the little foxes before they grow into big elephants. Go to the person you are bitter towards and get things right with them. Address the issues in your marriage that are causing you hurt and pain. Go to God with your secret sins and expose them to the light of His love.
God has saved us to live in victory… but victory will not be realized if we allow little sins to foul and fester. Do you believe that? If so, go out and catch a fox.
Love, Jeff Schreve, Pastor
Thursday, July 19, 2007
Being a Blessing
This is AWESOME! I am praying that you will be blessed AND be a blessing to those around you! (Share the cake!) :)
Living Generously
This devotional was written by Mike DeVries
I was young, but now I am old,yet I have never seen the righteous forsakenor their children begging for bread.They are always generous and lend freely;their children will be a blessing.—Psalm 37:25-26 (TNIV)
Early on in the Scriptures, God makes an astounding statement to the patriarch Abraham. He tells him, “I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you. I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you and whoever curses you I will curse; and all the peoples on earth will be blessed through you” (Genesis 12:2-3). With these words, God lays upon Abraham a blessing… but also a responsibility.
You see, unfortunately we’ve been trained to see the word “blessing” and automatically think of it as being directed toward our personal being. God “blesses”; we receive the “blessing.”
Yet if we look more closely at what God says to Abraham, it quickly becomes apparent.
“Blessings” are always something to be given away. We have not been blessed in order to enjoy them for ourselves, as if we were hoarding the last piece of birthday cake long after the party is over. No, in fact we have been blessed in order to be a blessing.
Take a quick look at Genesis 12:2-3 once again. Notice that only once does God tell Abraham that He will bless him, while three times God tells Abraham that others will be blessed through him. God does not bless us in order for us to feel good about ourselves, or merely because He wants us to enjoy His blessings for ourselves. This misses the point completely. God blesses us so that we in turn can bless others.
In other words, to live generously is to fully live in tune with the heart of God. Receive, so that you can give. Live generously, because this is the way God lives.
This brings us to today’s Scripture reference, Psalm 37:25-26.
Apparently, living generously has a far greater impact than we might ever know. When we choose to live generously – giving, loving, blessing, encouraging, lending and mending that which is broken – we leave a legacy for the next generation. When we model generosity, we instill in the next generation that generosity is a value to be embraced. As we are a blessing to others, our children see this value and will more readily embrace it as their own. We ensure that the cycle of blessing continues.
In a society that far too often is absorbed in self – self-advancement, self-promotion, even self-blessing – what kind of legacy are we leaving for the next generation? Is it one that is saturated in self, or is it one that sees the blessing of others as central to the message of God?
You have been blessed. Now it’s your turn.
Living Generously
This devotional was written by Mike DeVries
I was young, but now I am old,yet I have never seen the righteous forsakenor their children begging for bread.They are always generous and lend freely;their children will be a blessing.—Psalm 37:25-26 (TNIV)
Early on in the Scriptures, God makes an astounding statement to the patriarch Abraham. He tells him, “I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you. I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you and whoever curses you I will curse; and all the peoples on earth will be blessed through you” (Genesis 12:2-3). With these words, God lays upon Abraham a blessing… but also a responsibility.
You see, unfortunately we’ve been trained to see the word “blessing” and automatically think of it as being directed toward our personal being. God “blesses”; we receive the “blessing.”
Yet if we look more closely at what God says to Abraham, it quickly becomes apparent.
“Blessings” are always something to be given away. We have not been blessed in order to enjoy them for ourselves, as if we were hoarding the last piece of birthday cake long after the party is over. No, in fact we have been blessed in order to be a blessing.
Take a quick look at Genesis 12:2-3 once again. Notice that only once does God tell Abraham that He will bless him, while three times God tells Abraham that others will be blessed through him. God does not bless us in order for us to feel good about ourselves, or merely because He wants us to enjoy His blessings for ourselves. This misses the point completely. God blesses us so that we in turn can bless others.
In other words, to live generously is to fully live in tune with the heart of God. Receive, so that you can give. Live generously, because this is the way God lives.
This brings us to today’s Scripture reference, Psalm 37:25-26.
Apparently, living generously has a far greater impact than we might ever know. When we choose to live generously – giving, loving, blessing, encouraging, lending and mending that which is broken – we leave a legacy for the next generation. When we model generosity, we instill in the next generation that generosity is a value to be embraced. As we are a blessing to others, our children see this value and will more readily embrace it as their own. We ensure that the cycle of blessing continues.
In a society that far too often is absorbed in self – self-advancement, self-promotion, even self-blessing – what kind of legacy are we leaving for the next generation? Is it one that is saturated in self, or is it one that sees the blessing of others as central to the message of God?
You have been blessed. Now it’s your turn.
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Open the Trenches
Oooohh---the part that hits me here is "It's not the part of faith to question, but to obey". It's so much easier to ponder something, chew on it, think it through, which are all good and thoughtful things, but many times it's just delayed obedience. Wow---I will be praying for discernment on this, to practice simple faith and obedience, not overthinking and disobedience. By the way, it's another hump day----hope it's a good one for you!---LL
Streams in the Desert - July 18
Open the Trenches
"Ye shall not see wind, neither shall ye see rain; yet that valley shall be filled with water, that ye may drink, both ye, and your cattle, and your beasts. And this is but a light thing in the sight of the Lord: he will deliver the Moabites also into your hands" (2 Kings 3:16-18).
To human thinking it was simply impossible, but nothing is hard for God. Without a sound or sign, from sources invisible and apparently impossible, the floods came stealing in all night long; and when the morning dawned, those ditches were flooded with the crystal waters, and reflecting the rays of the morning sun from the red hills of Edom. Our unbelief is always wanting some outward sign. The religion of many is largely sensational, and they are not satisfied of its genuineness without manifestations, etc.; but the greatest triumph of faith is to be still and know that He is God. The great victory of faith is to stand before some impassable Red Sea, and hear the Master say, "Stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord," and "Go forward!" As we step out without any sign or sound--not a wave-splash--and wetting our very feet as we take the first step into its waters, still marching on we shall see the sea divide and the pathway open through the very midst of the waters.
If we have seen the miraculous workings of God in some marvelous case of healing or some extraordinary providential deliverance, I am sure the thing that has impressed us most has been the quietness with which it was all done, the absence of everything spectacular and sensational, and the utter sense of nothingness which came to us as we stood in the presence of this mighty God and felt how easy, it was for Him to do it all without the faintest effort on His part or the slightest help on ours.
It is not the part of faith to question, but to obey. The ditches were made, and the water came pouring in from some supernatural source. What a lesson for our faith!
Are you craving a spiritual blessing? Open the trenches, and God will fill them. And this, too, in the most unexpected places and in the most unexpected ways.
Oh, for that faith that can act by faith and not by sight, and expect God to work although we see no wind or rain. --A. B. Simpson
Streams in the Desert - July 18
Open the Trenches
"Ye shall not see wind, neither shall ye see rain; yet that valley shall be filled with water, that ye may drink, both ye, and your cattle, and your beasts. And this is but a light thing in the sight of the Lord: he will deliver the Moabites also into your hands" (2 Kings 3:16-18).
To human thinking it was simply impossible, but nothing is hard for God. Without a sound or sign, from sources invisible and apparently impossible, the floods came stealing in all night long; and when the morning dawned, those ditches were flooded with the crystal waters, and reflecting the rays of the morning sun from the red hills of Edom. Our unbelief is always wanting some outward sign. The religion of many is largely sensational, and they are not satisfied of its genuineness without manifestations, etc.; but the greatest triumph of faith is to be still and know that He is God. The great victory of faith is to stand before some impassable Red Sea, and hear the Master say, "Stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord," and "Go forward!" As we step out without any sign or sound--not a wave-splash--and wetting our very feet as we take the first step into its waters, still marching on we shall see the sea divide and the pathway open through the very midst of the waters.
If we have seen the miraculous workings of God in some marvelous case of healing or some extraordinary providential deliverance, I am sure the thing that has impressed us most has been the quietness with which it was all done, the absence of everything spectacular and sensational, and the utter sense of nothingness which came to us as we stood in the presence of this mighty God and felt how easy, it was for Him to do it all without the faintest effort on His part or the slightest help on ours.
It is not the part of faith to question, but to obey. The ditches were made, and the water came pouring in from some supernatural source. What a lesson for our faith!
Are you craving a spiritual blessing? Open the trenches, and God will fill them. And this, too, in the most unexpected places and in the most unexpected ways.
Oh, for that faith that can act by faith and not by sight, and expect God to work although we see no wind or rain. --A. B. Simpson
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Wrong Way Riegels
Moments Together for Couples 7/17
by Dennis and Barbara Rainey
July 17
"Wrong Way Riegels"
Galatians 6:9 And let us not lose heart in doing good
It is surprising to learn how many parents feel inadequate and helpless. I can relate to this because Barbara and I struggle as much as anyone else with these feelings. We are not raising little robots that dutifully go about perfectly obeying us. We moan over our failures and wonder if our kids will ever turn out right.
Have you heard of "Wrong Way Riegels"? Roy Riegels played in the 1929 Rose Bowl for the University of California and made one of the most famous mistakes in the history of football. He picked up a fumble, looked up and saw nothing but green grass ahead of him. He ran more than 60 yards-in the wrong direction! Finally he was tackled by his teammate inside their own 10-yard line. California was forced to punt, and Georgia Tech blocked the kick and scored.
At halftime, the California coach gave a rousing call to his dispirited team. At the end he declared, "Same team that started the first half, will start the second half." This meant Roy was going to start the second half.
All the players ran out to the field except Roy. "Coach, I cannot go out there," Roy said. "I'm humiliated."
The coach looked Roy in the face and said, "Roy, the game is only half over. Now get out there and play the rest of it."
The words of that coach are worth remembering today if you're a parent. You may have a nine-year-old, and you're thinking, The game is half over-in nine years he will be going to college. Or your oldest may be 12 or 15 or 25. You look back with regret at your mistakes in parenting, and you think you've already lost the game.
It is at this point where we need the encouragement of Charles Spurgeon who said, "It was by perseverance that the snail reached the ark."
You cannot change what happened in the past, neither can I. What you can change is what you do in the future.
Prayer:
Ask God to encourage you to not grow weary in doing good as a parent. Ask Him to show you how you can encourage your spouse in the battle.
Discuss: Do you feel like a failure as a parent? Why?
by Dennis and Barbara Rainey
July 17
"Wrong Way Riegels"
Galatians 6:9 And let us not lose heart in doing good
It is surprising to learn how many parents feel inadequate and helpless. I can relate to this because Barbara and I struggle as much as anyone else with these feelings. We are not raising little robots that dutifully go about perfectly obeying us. We moan over our failures and wonder if our kids will ever turn out right.
Have you heard of "Wrong Way Riegels"? Roy Riegels played in the 1929 Rose Bowl for the University of California and made one of the most famous mistakes in the history of football. He picked up a fumble, looked up and saw nothing but green grass ahead of him. He ran more than 60 yards-in the wrong direction! Finally he was tackled by his teammate inside their own 10-yard line. California was forced to punt, and Georgia Tech blocked the kick and scored.
At halftime, the California coach gave a rousing call to his dispirited team. At the end he declared, "Same team that started the first half, will start the second half." This meant Roy was going to start the second half.
All the players ran out to the field except Roy. "Coach, I cannot go out there," Roy said. "I'm humiliated."
The coach looked Roy in the face and said, "Roy, the game is only half over. Now get out there and play the rest of it."
The words of that coach are worth remembering today if you're a parent. You may have a nine-year-old, and you're thinking, The game is half over-in nine years he will be going to college. Or your oldest may be 12 or 15 or 25. You look back with regret at your mistakes in parenting, and you think you've already lost the game.
It is at this point where we need the encouragement of Charles Spurgeon who said, "It was by perseverance that the snail reached the ark."
You cannot change what happened in the past, neither can I. What you can change is what you do in the future.
Prayer:
Ask God to encourage you to not grow weary in doing good as a parent. Ask Him to show you how you can encourage your spouse in the battle.
Discuss: Do you feel like a failure as a parent? Why?
Monday, July 16, 2007
Insult for Insult club
When I read this, I felt convicted. When I've been wronged or hurt, my flesh longs to lash back. But this way of responding----a loving, quiet, and creative way---is my call to heart action! Happy Monday!--LL
Moments Together for Couples 7/16
by Dennis and Barbara Rainey
July 16
The Insult-for-Insult Club
1 Peter 3:8,9 To sum up, let all be harmonious...and humble in spirit, not returning evil for evil, or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead.
You may have heard of the husband who asked his wife, "Why did God make you so beautiful but so dumb?"
She answered, "He made me beautiful so you would marry me, and dumb so that I could love you!"
While the insult-for-insult relationship may be funny on paper, it is deadly for a relationship. How much better to be like Linda who was married to Lou, a fourth-year seminary student. They had four children, and you can imagine their hectic schedules.
They decided to take a break and enjoy a pleasant, romantic evening. Lou was due home at 6:00 P.M. and Linda got all the kids ready for bed, picked up the baby-sitter and at 6:30 P.M. was beautifully dressed and waiting. But Lou, at the seminary library, became so involved in studying Hebrew that he forgot the time and arrived home at 8:45 P.M. By that time Linda had taken the baby-sitter home.
Lou offered nothing more than a lame "I'm sorry." As they prepared for bed, Linda began to pour out her heart, telling Lou how she had been looking forward to some time together. Then she looked over and saw Lou...fast asleep.
How did Linda respond? This was a godly woman who knew how to live according to Scripture. The next morning she arose early, put on a favorite negligee and made breakfast, which she served him in bed. Then, to cap it off, she initiated making love!
How did Lou react to Linda's effort to pay back insult with blessing? For the next month, he couldn't do enough to serve her. Her actions had heaped coals of fire on his head and he realized how wrong he had been. It was something of a turning point toward intimacy in their marriage.
Prayer:
That the Spirit of Jesus Christ, who endured such unjust suffering, will help you overcome the natural spirit to avenge yourself and to give insult for insult in your marriage and family.
Discuss: Whose rights and feelings are you focusing on when you feel it necessary to insult someone? What is usually gained by an insult?
Moments Together for Couples 7/16
by Dennis and Barbara Rainey
July 16
The Insult-for-Insult Club
1 Peter 3:8,9 To sum up, let all be harmonious...and humble in spirit, not returning evil for evil, or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead.
You may have heard of the husband who asked his wife, "Why did God make you so beautiful but so dumb?"
She answered, "He made me beautiful so you would marry me, and dumb so that I could love you!"
While the insult-for-insult relationship may be funny on paper, it is deadly for a relationship. How much better to be like Linda who was married to Lou, a fourth-year seminary student. They had four children, and you can imagine their hectic schedules.
They decided to take a break and enjoy a pleasant, romantic evening. Lou was due home at 6:00 P.M. and Linda got all the kids ready for bed, picked up the baby-sitter and at 6:30 P.M. was beautifully dressed and waiting. But Lou, at the seminary library, became so involved in studying Hebrew that he forgot the time and arrived home at 8:45 P.M. By that time Linda had taken the baby-sitter home.
Lou offered nothing more than a lame "I'm sorry." As they prepared for bed, Linda began to pour out her heart, telling Lou how she had been looking forward to some time together. Then she looked over and saw Lou...fast asleep.
How did Linda respond? This was a godly woman who knew how to live according to Scripture. The next morning she arose early, put on a favorite negligee and made breakfast, which she served him in bed. Then, to cap it off, she initiated making love!
How did Lou react to Linda's effort to pay back insult with blessing? For the next month, he couldn't do enough to serve her. Her actions had heaped coals of fire on his head and he realized how wrong he had been. It was something of a turning point toward intimacy in their marriage.
Prayer:
That the Spirit of Jesus Christ, who endured such unjust suffering, will help you overcome the natural spirit to avenge yourself and to give insult for insult in your marriage and family.
Discuss: Whose rights and feelings are you focusing on when you feel it necessary to insult someone? What is usually gained by an insult?
Sunday, July 15, 2007
Benefits of Obedience
Marketplace Meditations 7/15
July 15
The Benefits of Obedience
Isaiah 48:17 This is what the Lord says-your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: "I am the Lord your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go."
My career has been in marketing and advertising. Early on, I learned to distinguish the difference between features and benefits. Features represent characteristics of a product or service. Benefits are those things that directly profit or benefit me by using the product or service. For instance, my new computer has incredible speed and lots of memory (feature). This allows me to do things more quickly and easily (benefit). People are more concerned about the benefits than the features.
God tells us in the above verse that there are some direct benefits to the features of His nature. He is a God who is committed to teaching His children in the way they should go. What is the real benefit of His teaching? He answers this in the next verse. "If only you had paid attention to My commands, your peace would have been like a river, your righteousness like the waves of the sea" (Is. 48:18).
The Lord tells us that the benefit of allowing God to teach us and lead us in the way is peace and righteousness. Here is a guaranteed promise from God. I often use guarantees in my advertising claims. Here is God's immutable guarantee: You will have peace like a river and righteousness like the waves of the sea! What a great promise!
Are you trusting God with the very details of your life so that He can lead you in the way you should go? Are you allowing Him to teach you? Seek the Lord today for what He wants to teach you and allow Him to lead you, and you will ensure peace and righteousness in your life.
July 15
The Benefits of Obedience
Isaiah 48:17 This is what the Lord says-your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: "I am the Lord your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go."
My career has been in marketing and advertising. Early on, I learned to distinguish the difference between features and benefits. Features represent characteristics of a product or service. Benefits are those things that directly profit or benefit me by using the product or service. For instance, my new computer has incredible speed and lots of memory (feature). This allows me to do things more quickly and easily (benefit). People are more concerned about the benefits than the features.
God tells us in the above verse that there are some direct benefits to the features of His nature. He is a God who is committed to teaching His children in the way they should go. What is the real benefit of His teaching? He answers this in the next verse. "If only you had paid attention to My commands, your peace would have been like a river, your righteousness like the waves of the sea" (Is. 48:18).
The Lord tells us that the benefit of allowing God to teach us and lead us in the way is peace and righteousness. Here is a guaranteed promise from God. I often use guarantees in my advertising claims. Here is God's immutable guarantee: You will have peace like a river and righteousness like the waves of the sea! What a great promise!
Are you trusting God with the very details of your life so that He can lead you in the way you should go? Are you allowing Him to teach you? Seek the Lord today for what He wants to teach you and allow Him to lead you, and you will ensure peace and righteousness in your life.
Saturday, July 14, 2007
Someone Who Understands
Do you ever feel like no one knows what you're going thru even though they say they do? Well this devotional reminds us all the only the Lord truly knows what we're going thru, so run and turn to Him!
HomeWord - July 13, 2007
Someone Who Understands
This devotional was written by Jim Liebelt
Therefore, it was necessary for Jesus to be in every respect like us, his brothers and sisters, so that he could be our merciful and faithful High Priest before God. He then could offer a sacrifice that would take away the sins of the people. Since he himself has gone through suffering and temptation, he is able to help us when we are being tempted.—Hebrews 2:17-18 NLT
The story (author unknown) is told of a farmer who had some puppies he needed to sell. He made a sign advertising the pups and posted it in his yard. Shortly after, a boy showed up in response to the sign. “Mister,” he said, “I want to buy one of your puppies.” “Well,” said the farmer, “these puppies cost a good deal of money.” The boy reached deep into his pocket, he pulled out a handful of change and held it up to the farmer. “I've got thirty-nine cents. Is that enough to take a look?” “Sure,” said the farmer. The farmer whistled and called,”Here Dolly!” From the doghouse and down the ramp ran Dolly followed by four little pups. The little boy’s eyes danced with delight. As the dogs approached, the little boy noticed something else stirring inside the doghouse. Slowly another little pup appeared, but this one was considerably smaller. The little pup began hobbling toward the others, doing its best to catch up. “I want that one,” the little boy said, pointing to the runt. The farmer knelt down at the boy's side and said, “Son, you don't want that puppy. He will never be able to run and play with you like these other dogs would.” The little boy stepped back from the fence, reached down, and rolled up one leg of his pants revealing a steel brace running down both sides of his leg. Looking back up at the farmer, he said, "Mister, I don't run too well myself, and that puppy needs someone who understands.”
Not one of us is perfect. Everyone has flaws and weaknesses. Some are more visible than others, but we all have them. Fortunately, like the boy who chooses the pup, we have a Savior who knows and understands our feelings and our weaknesses and still chooses us to be His friends and children! And, in response, he wants us to demonstrate our love to one another!
If you are one who struggles with your own flaws and shortcomings, today, take comfort in the knowledge of God’s love for you and then, share that love with someone else! Remember, the world is full of hurting people that are looking to connect with others who understand.
HomeWord - July 13, 2007
Someone Who Understands
This devotional was written by Jim Liebelt
Therefore, it was necessary for Jesus to be in every respect like us, his brothers and sisters, so that he could be our merciful and faithful High Priest before God. He then could offer a sacrifice that would take away the sins of the people. Since he himself has gone through suffering and temptation, he is able to help us when we are being tempted.—Hebrews 2:17-18 NLT
The story (author unknown) is told of a farmer who had some puppies he needed to sell. He made a sign advertising the pups and posted it in his yard. Shortly after, a boy showed up in response to the sign. “Mister,” he said, “I want to buy one of your puppies.” “Well,” said the farmer, “these puppies cost a good deal of money.” The boy reached deep into his pocket, he pulled out a handful of change and held it up to the farmer. “I've got thirty-nine cents. Is that enough to take a look?” “Sure,” said the farmer. The farmer whistled and called,”Here Dolly!” From the doghouse and down the ramp ran Dolly followed by four little pups. The little boy’s eyes danced with delight. As the dogs approached, the little boy noticed something else stirring inside the doghouse. Slowly another little pup appeared, but this one was considerably smaller. The little pup began hobbling toward the others, doing its best to catch up. “I want that one,” the little boy said, pointing to the runt. The farmer knelt down at the boy's side and said, “Son, you don't want that puppy. He will never be able to run and play with you like these other dogs would.” The little boy stepped back from the fence, reached down, and rolled up one leg of his pants revealing a steel brace running down both sides of his leg. Looking back up at the farmer, he said, "Mister, I don't run too well myself, and that puppy needs someone who understands.”
Not one of us is perfect. Everyone has flaws and weaknesses. Some are more visible than others, but we all have them. Fortunately, like the boy who chooses the pup, we have a Savior who knows and understands our feelings and our weaknesses and still chooses us to be His friends and children! And, in response, he wants us to demonstrate our love to one another!
If you are one who struggles with your own flaws and shortcomings, today, take comfort in the knowledge of God’s love for you and then, share that love with someone else! Remember, the world is full of hurting people that are looking to connect with others who understand.
Friday, July 13, 2007
Diving into Life
Start diving this moment! Abandon yourself to living life and living it for the Lord! TGIF!--LL
UpWords - Week of July 13-19
Week of July 13, 2007
Diving into Life Headfirstby Max Lucado
Steve Lyons will be remembered as the player who dropped his pants.
The White Sox were playing the Tigers in Detroit. Lyons bunted and raced down the first-base line. He knew it was going to be tight, so he dove at the bag. Safe! The Tiger’s pitcher disagreed. He and the umpire got into a shouting match, and Lyons stepped in to voice his opinion.
Absorbed in the game and the debate, Lyons felt dirt trickling down the inside of his pants. Without missing a beat he dropped his britches, wiped away the dirt, and… uh oh… twenty
thousand jaws hit the bleachers’ floor.
Within twenty-four hours of the “exposure,” he received more exposure than he’d gotten his entire career: seven live television and approximately twenty radio interviews.
Fortunately, for Steve, he was wearing sliding pants under his baseball pants.
Now, I don’t know Steve Lyons. I’m not a White Sox fan. Nor am I normally appreciative of men who drop their pants in public. But I think Steve Lyons deserves a salute.
I think anybody who dives into first base deserves a salute. How many guys do you see roaring down the baseline of life more concerned about getting a job done than they are about saving their necks? How often do you see people diving headfirst into anything?
Too seldom, right? But when we do … when we see a gutsy human throwing caution to the wind and taking a few risks … ah, now that’s a person worthy of a pat on the … back.
S
o here’s to all the Steve Lyons of the world.
Here’s to the Miracles, a choral group out of Memphis, Tennessee, made up of the mentally retarded and the stout-hearted. Just see if you can listen to them and still feel sorry for yourself.
Here’s to the hero of the San Francisco marathon who crossed the finish line without seeing it. (He was blind.)
Here’s to the woman whose husband left her with a nest of kids to raise and bills to pay, but who somehow tells me every Sunday that God has never been closer.
Here’s to the single father of two girls who learned to braid their hair.
Here’s to the grandparents who came out of retirement to raise the children their children couldn’t raise.
Here’s to the foster parents who took in a child long enough for that child to take their hearts—then gave the child up again.
Here’s to the girl, told by everyone to abort the baby, who chose to keep the baby.
Here’s to the doctor who treats more than half of his patients for free.
Here’s to the heroin-addict-turned-missionary.
Here’s to the executive who every Tuesday hosts a 5:30 A.M. meeting for Bible study and prayer.
Here’s to all of you reckless lovers of life and God, who stand on first base because you paid a price to get there.
So what if you forget about pleasing the crowd and get caught with your pants down? At least you’re playing ball in the pros.
Most of us aren’t even in your league.
UpWords - Week of July 13-19
Week of July 13, 2007
Diving into Life Headfirstby Max Lucado
Steve Lyons will be remembered as the player who dropped his pants.
The White Sox were playing the Tigers in Detroit. Lyons bunted and raced down the first-base line. He knew it was going to be tight, so he dove at the bag. Safe! The Tiger’s pitcher disagreed. He and the umpire got into a shouting match, and Lyons stepped in to voice his opinion.
Absorbed in the game and the debate, Lyons felt dirt trickling down the inside of his pants. Without missing a beat he dropped his britches, wiped away the dirt, and… uh oh… twenty
thousand jaws hit the bleachers’ floor.
Within twenty-four hours of the “exposure,” he received more exposure than he’d gotten his entire career: seven live television and approximately twenty radio interviews.
Fortunately, for Steve, he was wearing sliding pants under his baseball pants.
Now, I don’t know Steve Lyons. I’m not a White Sox fan. Nor am I normally appreciative of men who drop their pants in public. But I think Steve Lyons deserves a salute.
I think anybody who dives into first base deserves a salute. How many guys do you see roaring down the baseline of life more concerned about getting a job done than they are about saving their necks? How often do you see people diving headfirst into anything?
Too seldom, right? But when we do … when we see a gutsy human throwing caution to the wind and taking a few risks … ah, now that’s a person worthy of a pat on the … back.
S
o here’s to all the Steve Lyons of the world.
Here’s to the Miracles, a choral group out of Memphis, Tennessee, made up of the mentally retarded and the stout-hearted. Just see if you can listen to them and still feel sorry for yourself.
Here’s to the hero of the San Francisco marathon who crossed the finish line without seeing it. (He was blind.)
Here’s to the woman whose husband left her with a nest of kids to raise and bills to pay, but who somehow tells me every Sunday that God has never been closer.
Here’s to the single father of two girls who learned to braid their hair.
Here’s to the grandparents who came out of retirement to raise the children their children couldn’t raise.
Here’s to the foster parents who took in a child long enough for that child to take their hearts—then gave the child up again.
Here’s to the girl, told by everyone to abort the baby, who chose to keep the baby.
Here’s to the doctor who treats more than half of his patients for free.
Here’s to the heroin-addict-turned-missionary.
Here’s to the executive who every Tuesday hosts a 5:30 A.M. meeting for Bible study and prayer.
Here’s to all of you reckless lovers of life and God, who stand on first base because you paid a price to get there.
So what if you forget about pleasing the crowd and get caught with your pants down? At least you’re playing ball in the pros.
Most of us aren’t even in your league.
Thursday, July 12, 2007
God's perfect timing
Greg Laurie Daily Devotion - July 12, 2007
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Just Getting Started
Yet God has made everything beautiful for its own time.
—Ecclesiastes 3:11
When I look back on my life at the things God has allowed me to do and the opportunities He has opened up, I can see the wisdom of His perfect timing.
Our tendency is to rush things. But just because something hasn’t happened in your life today doesn’t mean it won’t happen tomorrow. Just because it doesn’t happen tomorrow doesn’t mean it won’t happen a month from now or a year from now. Maybe one phase of your life is ending and another is beginning. Maybe everything that has happened to you up to this point in your life has been preparation for what is still ahead.
Moses didn’t get going until he was 80. Then there was Caleb, another Israelite who left Egypt in the Exodus. Along with Joshua, Caleb came back full of optimism and belief when they were sent to spy out the Promised Land. But when the Israelites believed the pessimistic report of the ten other spies, God was so displeased that He refused to allow them to enter the land.
Years later, when Joshua led a new generation of Israelites into the Promised Land, Caleb was among them. And at 80 years old, he said to Joshua, “So give me the hill country that the Lord promised me. You will remember that as scouts we found the descendants of Anak living there. . . But if the Lord is with me, I will drive them out of the land, just as the Lord said” (Joshua 14:12).
Joshua gave him his little segment of land as was promised, and Caleb drove out all of its inhabitants. Caleb believed God’s promises, and God was faithful. We need to do the same.
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Just Getting Started
Yet God has made everything beautiful for its own time.
—Ecclesiastes 3:11
When I look back on my life at the things God has allowed me to do and the opportunities He has opened up, I can see the wisdom of His perfect timing.
Our tendency is to rush things. But just because something hasn’t happened in your life today doesn’t mean it won’t happen tomorrow. Just because it doesn’t happen tomorrow doesn’t mean it won’t happen a month from now or a year from now. Maybe one phase of your life is ending and another is beginning. Maybe everything that has happened to you up to this point in your life has been preparation for what is still ahead.
Moses didn’t get going until he was 80. Then there was Caleb, another Israelite who left Egypt in the Exodus. Along with Joshua, Caleb came back full of optimism and belief when they were sent to spy out the Promised Land. But when the Israelites believed the pessimistic report of the ten other spies, God was so displeased that He refused to allow them to enter the land.
Years later, when Joshua led a new generation of Israelites into the Promised Land, Caleb was among them. And at 80 years old, he said to Joshua, “So give me the hill country that the Lord promised me. You will remember that as scouts we found the descendants of Anak living there. . . But if the Lord is with me, I will drive them out of the land, just as the Lord said” (Joshua 14:12).
Joshua gave him his little segment of land as was promised, and Caleb drove out all of its inhabitants. Caleb believed God’s promises, and God was faithful. We need to do the same.
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Thwarted Plans
Hmmmm--wow! I am such a total planner, and for the last 2 years, I"ve been having to learn how to deal with the "thwarted plans" in my life! I'll have my evenings all laid out, and then Tony would come home with one issue or another, and my plans needed to be adjusted. I feel like so many things I wanted to do never got done---so many people I wanted to meet with had to be put onhold. But ultimately, I needed to be there for my son. And to learn flexibility. And to learn how to deal with frustrations. I hate being in the middle of it, but the Lord has stretched me and shaped me! (And I am SOOOO thankful for those times with Tony!) Have a great day!--LL
Marketplace Meditations 7/11
July 11
When Plans are Thwarted
Daniel 10:13 But the prince of the Persian kingdom resisted me twenty-one days. Then Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, because I was detained there with the king of Persia.
I left at 5:00 a.m. to fly to another city to present some possible joint initiatives in ministry with another organization. I would have only an hour or so to meet with the board. I got into the city and taxied to the hotel. This is great, I thought. No glitches. I am even here an hour early. I asked where the meeting was. There was no record of such a meeting, even though my contact was staying at the hotel. I made several calls, to no avail. What had I missed? I continued trying to reach someone. An hour and a half later I reached my wife. She located a letter that seemed to indicate the meeting might be downtown. I took a cab and arrived at the location. "I am sorry, sir, there are no seventh-floor offices in use yet in this building."
"That cannot be. My letter says different." After I insisted, she let me go up. I arrived on the seventh floor. Nothing but concrete. Perplexed, I called my wife again. We made contact with yet another person who gave us another number to call. Finally, we located where the meeting was taking place. I got into the cab for another $30 cab ride. Forty-five minutes later the cab driver was lost. We stopped at a dry cleaners and he asked the people there, where the street was located. I was past the point of anger. I was laughing at this situation. A few minutes later, we arrived at our destination, three and a half hours after our scheduled time.
Plans do not always go as we hope. Sometimes they are hindered for our purposes. Sometimes we are dealing in a spiritual realm in which we realize we are truly in a spiritual battle. And sometimes we are even hindered to protect us. After looking at this situation, I believe I was being hindered from getting to this meeting. However, perseverance and God's grace allowed me to make the meeting. Important initiatives resulted from the brief time I was there.
The next time your plans are thwarted, begin asking what is at the root of the calamities. Ask God for discernment on what is taking place. Just as He revealed to Daniel, God will show you what is behind such events.
Marketplace Meditations 7/11
July 11
When Plans are Thwarted
Daniel 10:13 But the prince of the Persian kingdom resisted me twenty-one days. Then Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, because I was detained there with the king of Persia.
I left at 5:00 a.m. to fly to another city to present some possible joint initiatives in ministry with another organization. I would have only an hour or so to meet with the board. I got into the city and taxied to the hotel. This is great, I thought. No glitches. I am even here an hour early. I asked where the meeting was. There was no record of such a meeting, even though my contact was staying at the hotel. I made several calls, to no avail. What had I missed? I continued trying to reach someone. An hour and a half later I reached my wife. She located a letter that seemed to indicate the meeting might be downtown. I took a cab and arrived at the location. "I am sorry, sir, there are no seventh-floor offices in use yet in this building."
"That cannot be. My letter says different." After I insisted, she let me go up. I arrived on the seventh floor. Nothing but concrete. Perplexed, I called my wife again. We made contact with yet another person who gave us another number to call. Finally, we located where the meeting was taking place. I got into the cab for another $30 cab ride. Forty-five minutes later the cab driver was lost. We stopped at a dry cleaners and he asked the people there, where the street was located. I was past the point of anger. I was laughing at this situation. A few minutes later, we arrived at our destination, three and a half hours after our scheduled time.
Plans do not always go as we hope. Sometimes they are hindered for our purposes. Sometimes we are dealing in a spiritual realm in which we realize we are truly in a spiritual battle. And sometimes we are even hindered to protect us. After looking at this situation, I believe I was being hindered from getting to this meeting. However, perseverance and God's grace allowed me to make the meeting. Important initiatives resulted from the brief time I was there.
The next time your plans are thwarted, begin asking what is at the root of the calamities. Ask God for discernment on what is taking place. Just as He revealed to Daniel, God will show you what is behind such events.
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Audience of One
I sooooo totally needed this today! I've gotten so busy that I needed this "step back" to help me re-focus myself. Think I"ll go play that song, "Audience of one"-----Have a great day!--LL
July 10
An Audience of One
Romans 12:2 Do 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.
What audience do you play to? Each day you are seen by many who will make a judgment about the way you handle yourself among different audiences. Politicians have learned to play to their audiences, customizing messages for the needs of their particular groups. Musicians have learned to play to their audiences. Pastors play to their congregations each Sunday morning. Businesspeople play to the audiences who will buy their product.
Christ has called us to play to one audience-the audience of Himself. When you seek to please any other audience in your life, you become susceptible to situational ethics and motivations based on the need for the moment. Your audience becomes a pawn in your hands because you know what they want. Is that wrong? Sometimes it is, sometimes it isn't.
Pure obedience to pleasing God in our lives will often meet the needs of those around us. It is God's will that you and I love our spouses, provide good services to our customers, and look to the interests of others before ourselves. This will result in meeting many needs of the audiences in our lives.
However, there are other times when our audiences are asking for something contrary to God's will. Politicians are often forced to appease their audiences, even though it may go against God's laws. When we are asked to go with the flow, we discover which audience is most important in our lives. Is it the audience of One, or the audience of many?
Today, be aware of which audience you are playing to. Ask yourself why you are taking a particular action. Is it to please the audience of One? Or is it to please the audience of others who might negatively impact you should you not play to their tune?
July 10
An Audience of One
Romans 12:2 Do 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.
What audience do you play to? Each day you are seen by many who will make a judgment about the way you handle yourself among different audiences. Politicians have learned to play to their audiences, customizing messages for the needs of their particular groups. Musicians have learned to play to their audiences. Pastors play to their congregations each Sunday morning. Businesspeople play to the audiences who will buy their product.
Christ has called us to play to one audience-the audience of Himself. When you seek to please any other audience in your life, you become susceptible to situational ethics and motivations based on the need for the moment. Your audience becomes a pawn in your hands because you know what they want. Is that wrong? Sometimes it is, sometimes it isn't.
Pure obedience to pleasing God in our lives will often meet the needs of those around us. It is God's will that you and I love our spouses, provide good services to our customers, and look to the interests of others before ourselves. This will result in meeting many needs of the audiences in our lives.
However, there are other times when our audiences are asking for something contrary to God's will. Politicians are often forced to appease their audiences, even though it may go against God's laws. When we are asked to go with the flow, we discover which audience is most important in our lives. Is it the audience of One, or the audience of many?
Today, be aware of which audience you are playing to. Ask yourself why you are taking a particular action. Is it to please the audience of One? Or is it to please the audience of others who might negatively impact you should you not play to their tune?
Monday, July 9, 2007
Perseverance
HomeWord - July 9, 2007
Hang on to Hope
This devotional was written by Jim Burns
Since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. — Hebrews 12:1, 2
Do you ever feel like a failure? Some people look at the life of Jesus and say that He failed. He was born in obscurity. For most of His life He was a lonely carpenter. For three years He traveled as an itinerant preacher, and for those three years of effort He really didn't have many disciples and no substantial following to speak of. He died in shame with two common prisoners alongside Him. If the story stopped here, all would consider Him a failure. But the story continues, because three days later He rose from the dead, ascending into heaven and now sitting at the right hand of our Father!
If you feel like a failure, you're in good company. Abraham Lincoln had more failures than victories, yet some would call him the greatest president the United States has ever had. Look at his life for a moment. He grew up on an isolated farm with only one year of formal education. In his early years he was exposed to barely half-a-dozen books. In 1832 he lost his job and was defeated in the race for the Illinois legislature. In 1833 he failed in business. In 1834 he was elected to the state legislature, but in 1835 his sweetheart died, and in 1836 he had a nervous breakdown. In 1838 he was defeated for Speaker of the House, and in 1843 he was defeated for nomination for Congress. In 1846 he was elected to Congress but in 1848 lost the re-nomination. In 1849 he was rejected for a federal land officer appointment, and in 1854 he was defeated for the Senate. In 1856 he was defeated for the nomination of Vice President, and in 1858 was again defeated for the Senate. *
Was Lincoln a failure? Absolutely not! He became one of the greatest Presidents in the history of the United States.
There is one word that comes to mind when I think of failure: perseverance. To persevere means to hang on, to stick with it, to press forward! The call of the Christian is to keep on looking to Jesus and moving in His direction. You can rest assured that the Bible is right when it says, "He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus" (Philippians 1:6). So hang on - there is light at the end of the tunnel, and the light is the love of Christ.
Hang on to Hope
This devotional was written by Jim Burns
Since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. — Hebrews 12:1, 2
Do you ever feel like a failure? Some people look at the life of Jesus and say that He failed. He was born in obscurity. For most of His life He was a lonely carpenter. For three years He traveled as an itinerant preacher, and for those three years of effort He really didn't have many disciples and no substantial following to speak of. He died in shame with two common prisoners alongside Him. If the story stopped here, all would consider Him a failure. But the story continues, because three days later He rose from the dead, ascending into heaven and now sitting at the right hand of our Father!
If you feel like a failure, you're in good company. Abraham Lincoln had more failures than victories, yet some would call him the greatest president the United States has ever had. Look at his life for a moment. He grew up on an isolated farm with only one year of formal education. In his early years he was exposed to barely half-a-dozen books. In 1832 he lost his job and was defeated in the race for the Illinois legislature. In 1833 he failed in business. In 1834 he was elected to the state legislature, but in 1835 his sweetheart died, and in 1836 he had a nervous breakdown. In 1838 he was defeated for Speaker of the House, and in 1843 he was defeated for nomination for Congress. In 1846 he was elected to Congress but in 1848 lost the re-nomination. In 1849 he was rejected for a federal land officer appointment, and in 1854 he was defeated for the Senate. In 1856 he was defeated for the nomination of Vice President, and in 1858 was again defeated for the Senate. *
Was Lincoln a failure? Absolutely not! He became one of the greatest Presidents in the history of the United States.
There is one word that comes to mind when I think of failure: perseverance. To persevere means to hang on, to stick with it, to press forward! The call of the Christian is to keep on looking to Jesus and moving in His direction. You can rest assured that the Bible is right when it says, "He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus" (Philippians 1:6). So hang on - there is light at the end of the tunnel, and the light is the love of Christ.
Sunday, July 8, 2007
Forgetting the past
This hit home with me. Not that my dad was militaristic, but I couldn't seem to please him in any way. I was torn down, not built up. I've had to learn to let the Lord meet that need, which He should anyway, but see what an impact fathers have on their daughters! (and I'm sure on their sons as well). Have a great Sunday---LL
Moments Together for Couples 7/8
by Dennis and Barbara Rainey
July 8
Entering the Attic (Part Two)
Did you know a husband and wife can help each other sort through the attic of the past? Brethren, I do not regard myself as having laid hold of it yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead. Philippians 3:13
Sue and Rich dated and fell in love during college. Soon they were engaged, and then married. Although Sue had shared many things openly as they dated, Rich had no idea how the lack of her father's unconditional approval had shaped her self-image and influenced her life.
When Sue was a young girl, her militaristic father inspected her bedroom every Friday evening. In preparation, she would balance one chair on another to dust the tops of the window and door facings, which her father routinely examined.
All other required work was scrutinized just as intently. Once she was grounded for two weeks for missing two sprigs of crabgrass when she weeded the lawn.
When Sue was 11, she was told to take two cases of soft drinks down the basement stairs. She could barely manage to pick them up, but she did. Halfway down, she tripped and fell head over heels to the concrete floor. She was lying in the midst of broken glass when her father jerked her up and, without inquiring about her well-being said, "You dummy, I told you not to drop them!"
Not surprisingly, Sue had an impoverished self-image. At times, during her marriage, her insecurity surfaced in the form of emotional withdrawal. Rich was often caught off guard, but he encouraged her to tell him about her experiences. He rarely said, "You shouldn't feel that way."
He remained committed to helping her resolve, and not repress, her feelings about her parents. As a result, Sue now feels loved and valued by God and Rich. She is learning to forget what lies behind, to reach what is ahead.
Prayer:
That you and your mate will have intimacy to share both positive and negative aspects of the "baggage" from childhood.
Discuss: How familiar are you with your mate's relationship with his or her parents? If you haven't ever done so, take an evening and have your mate share his most memorable times with his parents.
Moments Together for Couples 7/8
by Dennis and Barbara Rainey
July 8
Entering the Attic (Part Two)
Did you know a husband and wife can help each other sort through the attic of the past? Brethren, I do not regard myself as having laid hold of it yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead. Philippians 3:13
Sue and Rich dated and fell in love during college. Soon they were engaged, and then married. Although Sue had shared many things openly as they dated, Rich had no idea how the lack of her father's unconditional approval had shaped her self-image and influenced her life.
When Sue was a young girl, her militaristic father inspected her bedroom every Friday evening. In preparation, she would balance one chair on another to dust the tops of the window and door facings, which her father routinely examined.
All other required work was scrutinized just as intently. Once she was grounded for two weeks for missing two sprigs of crabgrass when she weeded the lawn.
When Sue was 11, she was told to take two cases of soft drinks down the basement stairs. She could barely manage to pick them up, but she did. Halfway down, she tripped and fell head over heels to the concrete floor. She was lying in the midst of broken glass when her father jerked her up and, without inquiring about her well-being said, "You dummy, I told you not to drop them!"
Not surprisingly, Sue had an impoverished self-image. At times, during her marriage, her insecurity surfaced in the form of emotional withdrawal. Rich was often caught off guard, but he encouraged her to tell him about her experiences. He rarely said, "You shouldn't feel that way."
He remained committed to helping her resolve, and not repress, her feelings about her parents. As a result, Sue now feels loved and valued by God and Rich. She is learning to forget what lies behind, to reach what is ahead.
Prayer:
That you and your mate will have intimacy to share both positive and negative aspects of the "baggage" from childhood.
Discuss: How familiar are you with your mate's relationship with his or her parents? If you haven't ever done so, take an evening and have your mate share his most memorable times with his parents.
Friday, July 6, 2007
Breakthroughs
From His Heart - Week of July 6
IN NEED OF A BREAKTHROUGH!
God has broken through my enemies by my hand, like the breakthrough of waters. 1 Chronicles 14:11
As a Pastor, I have had the privilege and responsibility of counseling people in crisis. One lady who came to see me had a plethora of problems. As we began dealing with them, she rolled up her blouse sleeve and showed me scars and cuts on her arm. “What about this?” she asked. “What do you say about this cutting problem I have?” Wow!! She was most assuredly dealing with LOTS of issues.
The great part of that counseling story was that this young woman began turning her life over to the Lord. She started coming regularly to church and started putting the Scripture into practice. God began to work in her life… and she experienced a divine breakthrough!!
THE GOD OF BREAKTHROUGHS
God reveals Himself in Scripture as the God who can do anything. Nothing is too difficult for Him. When there are obstacles and enemies and problems all around us… God does His best work. He specializes in miraculous breakthroughs.
God desires to produce breakthroughs in our lives. So many live life in a prison of sin and bitterness and guilt and shame and dysfunction. God wants to breakthrough those walls that keep us incarcerated so that we can really live the abundant life and experience His joy, peace and power.
HOW TO EXPERIENCE YOUR BREAKTHROUGH
There are definitely some things you and I need to do in order to see a breakthrough in our marriages, our families, our individual lives:
1. Get Honest. God cannot work miracles in a person who is living in denial and cover up. Getting honest may be painful, but it is so very necessary. Lancing a boil is very painful… but you cannot get better unless and until you get the infection out. The bottom line question is summed up succinctly in John 5:6: “Do you want to get well?”
2. Get Right. If you mess up, you need to fess up. David messed up royally with Bathsheba. He was broken before the Lord over his sinful actions. He got honest, confessed his sin and got things right in his heart with God. He said, “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; and a broken and contrite heart, O God, You will not despise” (Psalm 51:17). Be assured, there is no forgiveness without godly sorrow and repentance.
3. Get Focused. God works mightily where there is honesty, brokenness and repentance. Once we have done this, we then must focus on Him and His mercy, love and power. “Behold, as the eyes of servants look to the hand of their master, as the eyes of a maid to the hand of her mistress: so our eyes look to the LORD our God, until He shall be gracious to us” (Psalm 123:2).
God will not make us wait indefinitely. As we continue to look to Him, He will intervene at the proper time and bring about a breakthrough for His glory and your ultimate good.
Love,
Jeff SchrevePastor
IN NEED OF A BREAKTHROUGH!
God has broken through my enemies by my hand, like the breakthrough of waters. 1 Chronicles 14:11
As a Pastor, I have had the privilege and responsibility of counseling people in crisis. One lady who came to see me had a plethora of problems. As we began dealing with them, she rolled up her blouse sleeve and showed me scars and cuts on her arm. “What about this?” she asked. “What do you say about this cutting problem I have?” Wow!! She was most assuredly dealing with LOTS of issues.
The great part of that counseling story was that this young woman began turning her life over to the Lord. She started coming regularly to church and started putting the Scripture into practice. God began to work in her life… and she experienced a divine breakthrough!!
THE GOD OF BREAKTHROUGHS
God reveals Himself in Scripture as the God who can do anything. Nothing is too difficult for Him. When there are obstacles and enemies and problems all around us… God does His best work. He specializes in miraculous breakthroughs.
God desires to produce breakthroughs in our lives. So many live life in a prison of sin and bitterness and guilt and shame and dysfunction. God wants to breakthrough those walls that keep us incarcerated so that we can really live the abundant life and experience His joy, peace and power.
HOW TO EXPERIENCE YOUR BREAKTHROUGH
There are definitely some things you and I need to do in order to see a breakthrough in our marriages, our families, our individual lives:
1. Get Honest. God cannot work miracles in a person who is living in denial and cover up. Getting honest may be painful, but it is so very necessary. Lancing a boil is very painful… but you cannot get better unless and until you get the infection out. The bottom line question is summed up succinctly in John 5:6: “Do you want to get well?”
2. Get Right. If you mess up, you need to fess up. David messed up royally with Bathsheba. He was broken before the Lord over his sinful actions. He got honest, confessed his sin and got things right in his heart with God. He said, “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; and a broken and contrite heart, O God, You will not despise” (Psalm 51:17). Be assured, there is no forgiveness without godly sorrow and repentance.
3. Get Focused. God works mightily where there is honesty, brokenness and repentance. Once we have done this, we then must focus on Him and His mercy, love and power. “Behold, as the eyes of servants look to the hand of their master, as the eyes of a maid to the hand of her mistress: so our eyes look to the LORD our God, until He shall be gracious to us” (Psalm 123:2).
God will not make us wait indefinitely. As we continue to look to Him, He will intervene at the proper time and bring about a breakthrough for His glory and your ultimate good.
Love,
Jeff SchrevePastor
Thursday, July 5, 2007
Rekindle the Fire!
In Touch - July 5, 2007
In Touch Daily Devotional by Dr. Charles Stanley
July 5, 2007 – Rekindling the Flame – 1 Timothy 4:14-16
Sadly, a believer’s passion to serve the Lord and share the gospel sometimes fades. When this happens, some choose to settle for a lukewarm life. They neither risk much for His name nor receive many blessings. Others stop ministering altogether and drift aimlessly through life. But the wise choice is to rekindle the flame of passion that first lit when we received salvation.
When we were saved, we received the gift of the Holy Spirit, our Helper in ministry. But wrong choices and poor priorities can hinder His power in our life. If that happens, how can we renew our passion for God?
The first step is to pray for the Holy Spirit to fill—or control—us again. That requires self-examination and repentance of any sins the Lord brings to mind. It also means giving back to God the right to reign over our life. Next, think about what was and what wasn’t happening in life when our passion last burned brightly. Understanding how external pressures and activities affect our ministry helps us prioritize wisely.
A smart last step is to retreat and devote a day or more to refocus on the Lord. This is a good time to recall His words of encouragement from Isaiah 41:10. In that way, we can resist fixating on problems. Instead, it’s important to remember that He’ll shepherd us through any trial. The more we focus on God, the smaller our distractions and stress will seem.
We don’t need to settle for a lukewarm life. The passion we experienced at salvation can be ours again if we’ll fix our focus on the Lord.
In Touch Daily Devotional by Dr. Charles Stanley
July 5, 2007 – Rekindling the Flame – 1 Timothy 4:14-16
Sadly, a believer’s passion to serve the Lord and share the gospel sometimes fades. When this happens, some choose to settle for a lukewarm life. They neither risk much for His name nor receive many blessings. Others stop ministering altogether and drift aimlessly through life. But the wise choice is to rekindle the flame of passion that first lit when we received salvation.
When we were saved, we received the gift of the Holy Spirit, our Helper in ministry. But wrong choices and poor priorities can hinder His power in our life. If that happens, how can we renew our passion for God?
The first step is to pray for the Holy Spirit to fill—or control—us again. That requires self-examination and repentance of any sins the Lord brings to mind. It also means giving back to God the right to reign over our life. Next, think about what was and what wasn’t happening in life when our passion last burned brightly. Understanding how external pressures and activities affect our ministry helps us prioritize wisely.
A smart last step is to retreat and devote a day or more to refocus on the Lord. This is a good time to recall His words of encouragement from Isaiah 41:10. In that way, we can resist fixating on problems. Instead, it’s important to remember that He’ll shepherd us through any trial. The more we focus on God, the smaller our distractions and stress will seem.
We don’t need to settle for a lukewarm life. The passion we experienced at salvation can be ours again if we’ll fix our focus on the Lord.
Tuesday, July 3, 2007
Dealing with the past
Streams in the Desert - July 3
Dealing With the Past
"Believe ye that I am able to do this?" (Matt. 9:28).
God deals with impossibilities. It is never too late for Him to do so, when the impossible is brought to Him, in full faith, by the one in whose life and circumstances the impossible must be accomplished if God is to be glorified. If in our own life there have been rebellion, unbelief, sin, and disaster, it is never too late for God to deal triumphantly with these tragic facts if brought to Him in full surrender and trust. It has often been said, and with truth, that Christianity is the only religion that can deal with man's past. God can "restore the years that the locust hath eaten" (Joel 2:25); and He will do this when we put the whole situation and ourselves unreservedly and believingly into His hands. Not because of what we are but because of what He is. God forgives and heals and restores. He is "the God of all grace." Let us praise Him and trust Him. --Sunday School Times
"Nothing is too hard for Jesus. No man can work like Him."
"We have a God who delights in impossibilities."Nothing too hard for Me.--Andrew Murray
Dealing With the Past
"Believe ye that I am able to do this?" (Matt. 9:28).
God deals with impossibilities. It is never too late for Him to do so, when the impossible is brought to Him, in full faith, by the one in whose life and circumstances the impossible must be accomplished if God is to be glorified. If in our own life there have been rebellion, unbelief, sin, and disaster, it is never too late for God to deal triumphantly with these tragic facts if brought to Him in full surrender and trust. It has often been said, and with truth, that Christianity is the only religion that can deal with man's past. God can "restore the years that the locust hath eaten" (Joel 2:25); and He will do this when we put the whole situation and ourselves unreservedly and believingly into His hands. Not because of what we are but because of what He is. God forgives and heals and restores. He is "the God of all grace." Let us praise Him and trust Him. --Sunday School Times
"Nothing is too hard for Jesus. No man can work like Him."
"We have a God who delights in impossibilities."Nothing too hard for Me.--Andrew Murray
Monday, July 2, 2007
Be LIke a Piano
What a beautiful illustration! Have a great Monday!--LL
Marketplace Meditations 7/2
July 2A Fine-tuned Instrument
Zechariah 13:9 ...I will refine them like silver and test them like gold. They will ccall on My name and I will answer them; I will say, "They are My people," and they will say, "The Lord is our God."
My business career has been as an owner of an advertising agency. Over the years, I have had the privilege to work on many different and prestigious accounts. One of those accounts was Steinway Pianos, the maker of the world's finest pianos. Each piano has always been made from scratch; it takes over a year to make one Steinway. The most impressive scene as I toured the manufacturing plant was the place where the soundboard is stretched to its maximum tolerance and allowed to sit for an extended period until it remains in the curved design. This was done in an off-to-the-corner part of the plant. If the wood were alive, it would be crying out for mercy.
After an extended time of stretching, the wood will never spring back to its original state. It is permanently changed. The piano is becoming a fine-tuned instrument. After this process takes place, the next step requires another point of stress. It takes 11 tons of pressure on a piano to tune it. Each step in the process moves the piano closer to a finished product that will ultimately be played by the world's finest musicians. These musicians desire a particular sound that only a piano like this can make.
God looks at each of us as a fine-tuned instrument. However, we begin as rough wood that He desires to transform into gold. Tuning us requires certain experiences that will stretch our faith, our frame, and our very life. Sainthood springs out of suffering. If we can stand the strain of this intense process, we will come forth as gold-as a sweet-smelling offering to our Maker. When we are in the midst of these times, it feels like fire. It is painful to be stretched beyond our perceived limits, but the Lord knows this is necessary for us to become an instrument that can play a beautiful song that others will seek after.
Let the master Craftsman have His way in your life today. You will be pleased with the instrument He fashions.
Marketplace Meditations 7/2
July 2A Fine-tuned Instrument
Zechariah 13:9 ...I will refine them like silver and test them like gold. They will ccall on My name and I will answer them; I will say, "They are My people," and they will say, "The Lord is our God."
My business career has been as an owner of an advertising agency. Over the years, I have had the privilege to work on many different and prestigious accounts. One of those accounts was Steinway Pianos, the maker of the world's finest pianos. Each piano has always been made from scratch; it takes over a year to make one Steinway. The most impressive scene as I toured the manufacturing plant was the place where the soundboard is stretched to its maximum tolerance and allowed to sit for an extended period until it remains in the curved design. This was done in an off-to-the-corner part of the plant. If the wood were alive, it would be crying out for mercy.
After an extended time of stretching, the wood will never spring back to its original state. It is permanently changed. The piano is becoming a fine-tuned instrument. After this process takes place, the next step requires another point of stress. It takes 11 tons of pressure on a piano to tune it. Each step in the process moves the piano closer to a finished product that will ultimately be played by the world's finest musicians. These musicians desire a particular sound that only a piano like this can make.
God looks at each of us as a fine-tuned instrument. However, we begin as rough wood that He desires to transform into gold. Tuning us requires certain experiences that will stretch our faith, our frame, and our very life. Sainthood springs out of suffering. If we can stand the strain of this intense process, we will come forth as gold-as a sweet-smelling offering to our Maker. When we are in the midst of these times, it feels like fire. It is painful to be stretched beyond our perceived limits, but the Lord knows this is necessary for us to become an instrument that can play a beautiful song that others will seek after.
Let the master Craftsman have His way in your life today. You will be pleased with the instrument He fashions.
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