'You may say to yourself, "My power and the strength of my hands have produced this wealth for me." But remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth.'
[Deuteronomy 8:17-18a]
April 30, 2009
April 29, 2009
Ch. 411 - Command
'Remember how the enemy has
mocked you, O Lord,
how foolish people have reviled
your name.
Do not hand over the life of your dove
to wild beasts;
do not forget the lives of your
afflicted people forever.
Have regard for your covenant,
because haunts of violence fill the
dark places of the land.
Do not let the oppressed retreat in
disgrace;
may the poor and needy praise your
name.
Rise up, O God, and defend your cause;
remember how fools mock you all day long.
Do not ignore the clamor of your
adversaries,
the uproar of your enemies, which
rises continually.
[Psalm 74:18-23; emphasis my own]
We are always so willing to tell God what to do and great at expecting everything of Him... but we are unwilling to listen to what He wants us to do and awful at obeying Him.
mocked you, O Lord,
how foolish people have reviled
your name.
Do not hand over the life of your dove
to wild beasts;
do not forget the lives of your
afflicted people forever.
Have regard for your covenant,
because haunts of violence fill the
dark places of the land.
Do not let the oppressed retreat in
disgrace;
may the poor and needy praise your
name.
Rise up, O God, and defend your cause;
remember how fools mock you all day long.
Do not ignore the clamor of your
adversaries,
the uproar of your enemies, which
rises continually.
[Psalm 74:18-23; emphasis my own]
We are always so willing to tell God what to do and great at expecting everything of Him... but we are unwilling to listen to what He wants us to do and awful at obeying Him.
April 28, 2009
Ch. 410 - One God
God keeps reminding me that there is no God but God. There is nothing else and no one else like Him. He is Everything and more to all whose minds and hearts turn to Him. I love simplistic reminders such as this. It's the most basic of things that we seem to look over or forget about as time passes.
There is no God but God.
He is good all the time.
He wants a relationship.
He lives in my heart.
He created me.
He loves me.
I don't know why this has been on my mind lately, but it has and so I'm going to go with it. Perhaps it's because I only have three days of classes left and I'm ready to be out of school-mode, but... who cares that the word "propitiation" is a fancy way of saying that Jesus Christ satisfied, or fulfilled, God's wrath by dying on the cross? Alright, so Jesus was an atoning sacrifice for mankind's sins. I'm thankful for what He did for us; I think about that every day. I mean, I owe my life - my true life - to what He did. It's no surprise that the sacrifice of God's Son is something I think about every day. But how often do I think about the fact that God gives me every breath I take? And how often do I think about the people of the world and how they are God's lost children? He is the One God to all... even though not everybody knows this.
Don't push aside thoughts that you think are menial. Don't make whatever God is trying to tell you seem of little importance. Chances are, you need to be reminded of whatever it is that He is reaching out to you with.
So let me say it again:
There is no God but God.
' "O Lord, God of Israel, there is no God like you in heaven above or on earth below - you who keep your covenant of love with your servants who continue wholeheartedly in your way." '
[1 Kings 8:23]
' "This is what the Lord says - Israel's King and Redeemer, the Lord Almighty: I am the first and I am the last; apart from me there is no God." '
[Isaiah 44:6]
There is no God but God.
He is good all the time.
He wants a relationship.
He lives in my heart.
He created me.
He loves me.
I don't know why this has been on my mind lately, but it has and so I'm going to go with it. Perhaps it's because I only have three days of classes left and I'm ready to be out of school-mode, but... who cares that the word "propitiation" is a fancy way of saying that Jesus Christ satisfied, or fulfilled, God's wrath by dying on the cross? Alright, so Jesus was an atoning sacrifice for mankind's sins. I'm thankful for what He did for us; I think about that every day. I mean, I owe my life - my true life - to what He did. It's no surprise that the sacrifice of God's Son is something I think about every day. But how often do I think about the fact that God gives me every breath I take? And how often do I think about the people of the world and how they are God's lost children? He is the One God to all... even though not everybody knows this.
Don't push aside thoughts that you think are menial. Don't make whatever God is trying to tell you seem of little importance. Chances are, you need to be reminded of whatever it is that He is reaching out to you with.
So let me say it again:
There is no God but God.
' "O Lord, God of Israel, there is no God like you in heaven above or on earth below - you who keep your covenant of love with your servants who continue wholeheartedly in your way." '
[1 Kings 8:23]
' "This is what the Lord says - Israel's King and Redeemer, the Lord Almighty: I am the first and I am the last; apart from me there is no God." '
[Isaiah 44:6]
April 27, 2009
Ch. 409 - "Philadelphia!"
"I want to be a Jonathan to him."
A friend said something like this to me this evening, regarding a mutual friend of ours.
I liked it.
David and Jonathan.
Bromance?
Indeed.
Not only did Jonathan become "one in spirit with David" and love David as himself [1 Samuel 18:1]... but David later said, "I grieve for you, Jonathan my brother; you were very dear to me. Your love for me was wonderful, more wonderful than that of women," as he lamented over the deaths of Saul and Jonathan [2 Samuel 1:26].
The love these men had for one another is nothing to scoff at.
To love another as yourself is more difficult than it may sound.
And to risk your life in order to ensure the safety of another isn't something most people would be willing to do.
'Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above
yourselves.'
[Romans 12:10]
A friend said something like this to me this evening, regarding a mutual friend of ours.
I liked it.
David and Jonathan.
Bromance?
Indeed.
Not only did Jonathan become "one in spirit with David" and love David as himself [1 Samuel 18:1]... but David later said, "I grieve for you, Jonathan my brother; you were very dear to me. Your love for me was wonderful, more wonderful than that of women," as he lamented over the deaths of Saul and Jonathan [2 Samuel 1:26].
The love these men had for one another is nothing to scoff at.
To love another as yourself is more difficult than it may sound.
And to risk your life in order to ensure the safety of another isn't something most people would be willing to do.
'Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above
yourselves.'
[Romans 12:10]
April 26, 2009
Ch. 408 - God With Us
I am so glad that I am loved by a living God.
Emmanuel.
He is with me now and forever.
I am seeking Him and finding Him all the more.
I know Him and He knows me.
Praise God!
God let His presence be known throughout the day.
'Worship Me. Worship Me. Worship Me.'
You can hear His voice in the song of the robin.
You can feel His touch in the gentle breeze.
You can smell His aroma in the sweetness of the air.
You can see His beauty in the people around you.
Open your mind.
Open your eyes.
Open your heart.
'He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him.'
[1 Thessalonians 5:10]
Emmanuel.
He is with me now and forever.
I am seeking Him and finding Him all the more.
I know Him and He knows me.
Praise God!
God let His presence be known throughout the day.
'Worship Me. Worship Me. Worship Me.'
You can hear His voice in the song of the robin.
You can feel His touch in the gentle breeze.
You can smell His aroma in the sweetness of the air.
You can see His beauty in the people around you.
Open your mind.
Open your eyes.
Open your heart.
'He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him.'
[1 Thessalonians 5:10]
April 25, 2009
Ch. 407 - In His Name
I was reading in Acts today and came across this verse: ' "Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved." '
[Acts 4:12]
This is a frequently quoted verse. Understandable. It's a pretty good one. I mean, there's such truth to it. It's even a truth that doesn't "hurt" and people desire truth. Anyway, what I wanted to mention is how often the verses leading up to Acts 4:12 are overlooked.
In chapter three, Peter heals a crippled beggar [in the name of Jesus Christ]. He and John then go on to teach 'the people' and proclaim in Jesus the resurrection of the dead [Acts 4:2]. They are then arrested and brought before elders, priests, etc. They ask Peter and John, ' "By what power or what name did you do this?" ' [Acts 4:7]
Acts 4:8-11 says this: 'Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them: "Ruler and elders of the people! If we are being called to account today for an act of kindness shown to a cripple and are asked how he was healed, then know this, you and all the people of Israel: It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed. He is 'the stone you builders rejected, which has become the capstone.' " '
I think what stands out to me the most is when Peter says they crucified Christ but God raised Him from the dead. I remember in Acts class it was drilled into our minds that we killed Christ, through our sins. This made quite the impact on me, so when I read these verses today it made it more meaningful. It's cool to see how classes are impacting my life, including my beliefs. I like this. I also love how Peter points out that it was in the name of Jesus Christ that the crippled beggar was healed. There is such power in His name and I think we are quick to forget that.
[Acts 4:12]
This is a frequently quoted verse. Understandable. It's a pretty good one. I mean, there's such truth to it. It's even a truth that doesn't "hurt" and people desire truth. Anyway, what I wanted to mention is how often the verses leading up to Acts 4:12 are overlooked.
In chapter three, Peter heals a crippled beggar [in the name of Jesus Christ]. He and John then go on to teach 'the people' and proclaim in Jesus the resurrection of the dead [Acts 4:2]. They are then arrested and brought before elders, priests, etc. They ask Peter and John, ' "By what power or what name did you do this?" ' [Acts 4:7]
Acts 4:8-11 says this: 'Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them: "Ruler and elders of the people! If we are being called to account today for an act of kindness shown to a cripple and are asked how he was healed, then know this, you and all the people of Israel: It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed. He is 'the stone you builders rejected, which has become the capstone.' " '
I think what stands out to me the most is when Peter says they crucified Christ but God raised Him from the dead. I remember in Acts class it was drilled into our minds that we killed Christ, through our sins. This made quite the impact on me, so when I read these verses today it made it more meaningful. It's cool to see how classes are impacting my life, including my beliefs. I like this. I also love how Peter points out that it was in the name of Jesus Christ that the crippled beggar was healed. There is such power in His name and I think we are quick to forget that.
April 24, 2009
Ch. 406 - Turning the Tables
I need some encouragement.
Or is it that I want some encouragement?
I can't really tell.
And I don't like that.
I need some change.
I'll get on that soon... maybe.
I feel hopeless.
I have hope in Christ, sure.
But what does that even mean?
Seriously.
You know what, though?
I don't really want to think right now.
Apathetic?
Oh yes.
What is wrong with me?
Pray.
'Test everything. Hold on to the good.'
[1 Thessalonians 5:21]
Or is it that I want some encouragement?
I can't really tell.
And I don't like that.
I need some change.
I'll get on that soon... maybe.
I feel hopeless.
I have hope in Christ, sure.
But what does that even mean?
Seriously.
You know what, though?
I don't really want to think right now.
Apathetic?
Oh yes.
What is wrong with me?
Pray.
'Test everything. Hold on to the good.'
[1 Thessalonians 5:21]
Ch. 405 - Children of God
'We know that we are children of God, and that the whole world is under the control of the evil one. We know also that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know him who is true. And we are in him who is true - even in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life.'
[1 John 5:19-20]
[1 John 5:19-20]
April 22, 2009
Ch. 404 - For Your Own Good
' "Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest, and repent." '
[Revelation 3:19]
[Revelation 3:19]
April 21, 2009
Ch. 403 - Rested in Him
One of my biggest pet peeves is when people say, "I'm tired..." after I have asked them, "How are you?" Another is when people say "I'm bored..." but I hear the former more often and it's slightly more irritating than the latter response. Anyway, I thus make a conscious effort to dig a little deeper and get them to say something else. And you basically never hear me tell people I'm tired when they ask me how I am. Now, I may say, "I'm good! A little tired... but good!" but I don't immediately answer using the word 'tired' and leave it at that. The thing is, I am rarely tired these days. I may not get the true-blue amount of sleep I need each night, but I don't find it entirely difficult to function throughout the day with less than my preferred amount of sleep.
I honestly think that God gives me the true rest that I need and that my soul is revived every morning regardless of how many hours I sleep. And you know what? Whether I've gotten three hours of sleep or ten hours of sleep, days seem to go so much better when, first thing in the morning, I talk to God and consciously recognize the fact that He restores me and will be with me every minute of every hour. I am also much more likely to fully seek God throughout the day and call on Him to guide and help me.
In doing this, I feel energized.
I feel prepared.
I feel strong.
There is so much joy to be had in every day. We shouldn't be wasting time bumming around, exclaiming that we're tired or bored. I don't care how true it is, do something about it and move on! If you're honestly that tired, get some sleep! If you're seriously bored enough to say that you are bored, find something to do!
Go volunteer.
Play a game.
Exercise.
Strike up a conversation with someone.
Read your Bible.
Talk with God.
Turn to Him in all things.
Our God is the Creator of the entire universe. He gave you life and love and eternal salvation. He is, by far, the most exciting Being that we could ever hope to know. He is also restful. He created a day of rest, for goodness' sake. He can give rest, as well. Did you ever stop to think that perhaps you're not even truly physically tired? Maybe your spirit or mind needs rest. God can give you this if you so desire. Let Him. Chances are, it would do you a world of good twice over.
' "Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth." '
[Psalm 46:10]
I honestly think that God gives me the true rest that I need and that my soul is revived every morning regardless of how many hours I sleep. And you know what? Whether I've gotten three hours of sleep or ten hours of sleep, days seem to go so much better when, first thing in the morning, I talk to God and consciously recognize the fact that He restores me and will be with me every minute of every hour. I am also much more likely to fully seek God throughout the day and call on Him to guide and help me.
In doing this, I feel energized.
I feel prepared.
I feel strong.
There is so much joy to be had in every day. We shouldn't be wasting time bumming around, exclaiming that we're tired or bored. I don't care how true it is, do something about it and move on! If you're honestly that tired, get some sleep! If you're seriously bored enough to say that you are bored, find something to do!
Go volunteer.
Play a game.
Exercise.
Strike up a conversation with someone.
Read your Bible.
Talk with God.
Turn to Him in all things.
Our God is the Creator of the entire universe. He gave you life and love and eternal salvation. He is, by far, the most exciting Being that we could ever hope to know. He is also restful. He created a day of rest, for goodness' sake. He can give rest, as well. Did you ever stop to think that perhaps you're not even truly physically tired? Maybe your spirit or mind needs rest. God can give you this if you so desire. Let Him. Chances are, it would do you a world of good twice over.
' "Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth." '
[Psalm 46:10]
April 20, 2009
Ch. 402 - Only Him
About a week ago, I was reading in Psalms and came across this verse:
'Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you.'
[Psalm 73:25]
This question and statement completely floored me. We know that in heaven we will be rejoicing and praising our Lord God, giving Him all honor and glory. Everything will be centered around Him, constantly. And I'm glad. Yet it should be that way here on earth, as well. We should be seeking God out continually, giving Him all honor and glory. 'And earth has nothing nothing I desire besides you.' If we were truly focused on God and wanting to seek nothing but Him, I think we would realize all the more that this earth truly does not hold anything greater. There is nothing comparable to God, granted, but I honestly think that we do desire things other than God more than we should. This is because we already 'have' God. We say that we know Him, love Him, and serve Him. So that must obviously mean that we do not need to seek Him; we do not need to desire Him. Thus we may then desire other things: a loving spouse, a good job, a nice home, happiness, etc. Now, I'm not saying that it is bad to desire these things. On the contrary, they are good compared to desiring things such as power and wealth. No matter - we should always desire God above all else... because it is God who is able to grant our desires. Our Lord God is everything. Without Him, we are nothing. Desire Him.
'Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you.'
[Psalm 73:25]
This question and statement completely floored me. We know that in heaven we will be rejoicing and praising our Lord God, giving Him all honor and glory. Everything will be centered around Him, constantly. And I'm glad. Yet it should be that way here on earth, as well. We should be seeking God out continually, giving Him all honor and glory. 'And earth has nothing nothing I desire besides you.' If we were truly focused on God and wanting to seek nothing but Him, I think we would realize all the more that this earth truly does not hold anything greater. There is nothing comparable to God, granted, but I honestly think that we do desire things other than God more than we should. This is because we already 'have' God. We say that we know Him, love Him, and serve Him. So that must obviously mean that we do not need to seek Him; we do not need to desire Him. Thus we may then desire other things: a loving spouse, a good job, a nice home, happiness, etc. Now, I'm not saying that it is bad to desire these things. On the contrary, they are good compared to desiring things such as power and wealth. No matter - we should always desire God above all else... because it is God who is able to grant our desires. Our Lord God is everything. Without Him, we are nothing. Desire Him.
April 19, 2009
Ch. 401 - Typical, but True
'A man's pride brings him low, but a man of lowly spirit gains honor.'
[Proverb 29:23]
I am prideful.
But I don't consider it to be one of my greater weaknesses.
Even so.
It's something to work on.
I had something else I wanted to talk about, but I'm tired and don't feel like taking the time to actually write about what's been on my mind and heart.
Tomorrow.
[Proverb 29:23]
I am prideful.
But I don't consider it to be one of my greater weaknesses.
Even so.
It's something to work on.
I had something else I wanted to talk about, but I'm tired and don't feel like taking the time to actually write about what's been on my mind and heart.
Tomorrow.
April 18, 2009
Ch. 400 - Would You?
'You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.'
[Romans 5:6-8]
[Romans 5:6-8]
April 17, 2009
Ch. 399 - An Honest Love
'Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.'
[1 John 4:11-12]
All this year, I've thought, "I am not growing. I am not supposed to be here. I should have stayed in Utah. I am not becoming closer to God. People here do not care. They're not focused."
I have been lying to myself.
I am growing.
I am supposed to be here.
I am becoming closer to God.
I have been judgmental.
People here do care.
They are focused.
Granted, this cannot be said true for everybody. But I have come across more people that it can be said true for than I thought I would over the months. And while it's taken me awhile to find those people, I have done so and am incredibly thankful for God placing those people in my life. I know there are numerous others here at Central Christian College of the Bible who love God and are actively seeking Him every day of their lives, just as I attempt to. I say 'attempt' because there are days when I am an absolute failure. That is okay. I am able to say it is okay because I know that while I may not always pursue God, I know He is pursuing me at all times.
For this, I praise God for His infinite, unconditional love!
Another reason I praise God for His love is because I have been given the gift of love from Him, so that I may love others. And although I am trying to use this gift to its fullest extent, I oftentimes fail at doing this. Fortunately, it's a love that is never-ending. I can love, and love, and love, and love some more. Now, here's the thing. I love people. It's simple. I love people. But actively sharing this love with people is difficult. I don't always know what love looks like to people. I don't know how they best feel loved. Or how easily they accept love. I am glad that loving God is easy. I know that no matter what, He will accept my love. But I am not commanded to love only God. And challenges that are presented to me when I try to share my love with others only makes my love stronger. Yet I don't want to force it on anyone. As much as I'd like to do so at times, it's ultimately up to them to accept that love that I extend. They can take as long as they'd like. I'm not going to reach out to them and then withdraw or suddenly turn my back. It will always be there for the taking.
' "This is my command: Love each other." '
[John 15:17]
Not only do I have this deep love for people, but I also have a profound interest in the people around me. Some might say that being interested in people and loving them are one and the same, but I disagree. You can love everyone, but not be truly interested in them... just as you can be truly interested in everyone, but not love them. But over time I have realized what a fascination I have with people. I can only imagine how strange or even creepy that may sound, but I know that everybody has a story. And I think it's safe to say that everyone enjoys a good story. I like to learn about people. I like to learn where they are in life, what they are about, what their relationship with God looks like, and what I can do for them in both the present and future.
I was thinking today and realized what I have just stated is exactly what I want throughout the rest of my life.
I want to talk with people and learn about them.
I want to hear their stories.
I want to simply listen.
I want to love people.
Above all, I want to let people know of God's love.
I want to let them know of God's Sacrifice.
I want to let them know of God's Son.
I want to let them know of God's Grace.
Peace.
Mercy.
Justice.
Salvation.
'Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth, so that you have sincere love for your brothers, love one another deeply, from the heart.'
[1 Peter 1:22]
......
Ch. 399, Part Two:
I have more love than I know what to do with.
Most times I don't know where to begin or who to go to.
Which is why most people don't know about this extreme love that I do have.
So help me.
Please.
Accept some of my love.
Tell me what you want.
Tell me what you need.
I don't want anything in return.
All that I could ever hope for is the acknowledgment that you know and feel my love in truth and through my actions.
[1 John 4:11-12]
All this year, I've thought, "I am not growing. I am not supposed to be here. I should have stayed in Utah. I am not becoming closer to God. People here do not care. They're not focused."
I have been lying to myself.
I am growing.
I am supposed to be here.
I am becoming closer to God.
I have been judgmental.
People here do care.
They are focused.
Granted, this cannot be said true for everybody. But I have come across more people that it can be said true for than I thought I would over the months. And while it's taken me awhile to find those people, I have done so and am incredibly thankful for God placing those people in my life. I know there are numerous others here at Central Christian College of the Bible who love God and are actively seeking Him every day of their lives, just as I attempt to. I say 'attempt' because there are days when I am an absolute failure. That is okay. I am able to say it is okay because I know that while I may not always pursue God, I know He is pursuing me at all times.
For this, I praise God for His infinite, unconditional love!
Another reason I praise God for His love is because I have been given the gift of love from Him, so that I may love others. And although I am trying to use this gift to its fullest extent, I oftentimes fail at doing this. Fortunately, it's a love that is never-ending. I can love, and love, and love, and love some more. Now, here's the thing. I love people. It's simple. I love people. But actively sharing this love with people is difficult. I don't always know what love looks like to people. I don't know how they best feel loved. Or how easily they accept love. I am glad that loving God is easy. I know that no matter what, He will accept my love. But I am not commanded to love only God. And challenges that are presented to me when I try to share my love with others only makes my love stronger. Yet I don't want to force it on anyone. As much as I'd like to do so at times, it's ultimately up to them to accept that love that I extend. They can take as long as they'd like. I'm not going to reach out to them and then withdraw or suddenly turn my back. It will always be there for the taking.
' "This is my command: Love each other." '
[John 15:17]
Not only do I have this deep love for people, but I also have a profound interest in the people around me. Some might say that being interested in people and loving them are one and the same, but I disagree. You can love everyone, but not be truly interested in them... just as you can be truly interested in everyone, but not love them. But over time I have realized what a fascination I have with people. I can only imagine how strange or even creepy that may sound, but I know that everybody has a story. And I think it's safe to say that everyone enjoys a good story. I like to learn about people. I like to learn where they are in life, what they are about, what their relationship with God looks like, and what I can do for them in both the present and future.
I was thinking today and realized what I have just stated is exactly what I want throughout the rest of my life.
I want to talk with people and learn about them.
I want to hear their stories.
I want to simply listen.
I want to love people.
Above all, I want to let people know of God's love.
I want to let them know of God's Sacrifice.
I want to let them know of God's Son.
I want to let them know of God's Grace.
Peace.
Mercy.
Justice.
Salvation.
'Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth, so that you have sincere love for your brothers, love one another deeply, from the heart.'
[1 Peter 1:22]
......
Ch. 399, Part Two:
I have more love than I know what to do with.
Most times I don't know where to begin or who to go to.
Which is why most people don't know about this extreme love that I do have.
So help me.
Please.
Accept some of my love.
Tell me what you want.
Tell me what you need.
I don't want anything in return.
All that I could ever hope for is the acknowledgment that you know and feel my love in truth and through my actions.
April 16, 2009
Ch. 398 - Developments
I have a voice.
But I don't have opportunities to let it be heard.
I like to listen.
But that's all I do.
I can lead.
I can respond.
Give feedback.
Give love.
Let me.
'The man who had received the five talents brought the other five. "Master," he said, "you entrusted me with five talents. See, I have gained five more." His master replied, "Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!" '
[Matthew 25:20-21]
But I don't have opportunities to let it be heard.
I like to listen.
But that's all I do.
I can lead.
I can respond.
Give feedback.
Give love.
Let me.
'The man who had received the five talents brought the other five. "Master," he said, "you entrusted me with five talents. See, I have gained five more." His master replied, "Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!" '
[Matthew 25:20-21]
April 15, 2009
Ch. 397 - Taking Advantage
God's redeeming love continues to work in our lives, even throughout the most difficult of times. He meets us where we are, always. He is able to make something good and meaningful out of tragedy - it just may take some time for us to realize what, exactly, those good and meaningful things are. We shouldn't focus on the negative things and miss God's blessings and new life that He pours out constantly.
'Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.'
[Ephesians 1:3]
'Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.'
[Ephesians 1:3]
April 14, 2009
Ch. 396 - Affirming Righteousness
Satan cannot touch us.
That's not to say that he doesn't deserve a good kick in the booty now and then.
Seriously, though.
Who does he think he is?
Doesn't he realize that all of his attempts at division and contempt and dissonance within the body of Christ simply makes it stronger over time?
You would think that he'd learn his lesson after each and every one of his failures. What a loser.
'When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise.'
[Proverbs 10:19]
That's not to say that he doesn't deserve a good kick in the booty now and then.
Seriously, though.
Who does he think he is?
Doesn't he realize that all of his attempts at division and contempt and dissonance within the body of Christ simply makes it stronger over time?
You would think that he'd learn his lesson after each and every one of his failures. What a loser.
'When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise.'
[Proverbs 10:19]
April 13, 2009
Ch. 395 - Whoaaa
Sometimes I become so excited about things I'm passionate for that I often get in over my head. I need to slow down, take a step back, and just let God work things out. Because He will.
'Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and your dominion endures through all generations.'
[Psalm 145:13]
He is in control.
'Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and your dominion endures through all generations.'
[Psalm 145:13]
He is in control.
April 12, 2009
Ch. 394 - I Believe
'Then Simon Peter, who was behind him, arrived and went into the tomb. He saw the strips of linen lying there, as well as the burial cloth that had been around Jesus' head. The cloth was folded up by itself, separate from the linen. Finally the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went inside. He saw and believed. (They still did not understand from Scripture that Jesus had to rise from the dead.)'
[John 20:6-9)
[John 20:6-9)
April 11, 2009
Ch. 393 - Putting on Righteousness
'But since we belong to the day, let us be self-controlled, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet.'
[1 Thessalonians 5:8]
[1 Thessalonians 5:8]
April 10, 2009
Ch. 392 - Our King
'They stripped him and put a scarlet robe on Him, and then twisted together a crown of thorns and set it on his head. They put a staff in his right hand and knelt in front of him and mocked him. "Hail, king of the Jews!" they said. They spit on him, and took the staff and struck him on the head again and again. After they had mocked him, they took off the robe and put his own clothes on him. Then they led him away to crucify him.'
[Matthew 27:28-31]
This is a well-known part of the Passion of Christ. I mean, it seems as if men and women, old and young, of many faiths - not just Christianity - have heard, recognize, or believe that Jesus Christ suffered and was mocked... and that He was clothed with a scarlet robe, a crown of thorns on His head. He was called "King of the Jews" by the Roman soldiers.
This is not a new story to me. Not only do I hear it a few times during the Easter season, I also read it in my regular Bible readings. Usually when I have read a passage of the Bible many times, I find that something different stands out to me each time. The above verses were definitely what has stood out to me the most during this Holy Week. I really think that God is working on me in regards to justice. As it seems to be coming up more and more, I think and pray about justice more than I ever have before.
What happened to Jesus was not fair.
He was wrongly hated.
He was wrongly accused.
He was wrongly tortured.
He was wrongly mocked.
[Note: Galatians 6:7 says, 'God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.' Those soldiers have it coming.]
But He was rightly crucified.
Think about that.
The only reason I believe I can say this is because He knew what He was sent by His Father to do. He knew it would happen. He knew it had to happen. That technically doesn't make it any more "right" in our eyes, because He is our Lord God. He is our Lamb. He is our King.
But as Jesus Himself said, "Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." [John 10:13]
[Matthew 27:28-31]
This is a well-known part of the Passion of Christ. I mean, it seems as if men and women, old and young, of many faiths - not just Christianity - have heard, recognize, or believe that Jesus Christ suffered and was mocked... and that He was clothed with a scarlet robe, a crown of thorns on His head. He was called "King of the Jews" by the Roman soldiers.
This is not a new story to me. Not only do I hear it a few times during the Easter season, I also read it in my regular Bible readings. Usually when I have read a passage of the Bible many times, I find that something different stands out to me each time. The above verses were definitely what has stood out to me the most during this Holy Week. I really think that God is working on me in regards to justice. As it seems to be coming up more and more, I think and pray about justice more than I ever have before.
What happened to Jesus was not fair.
He was wrongly hated.
He was wrongly accused.
He was wrongly tortured.
He was wrongly mocked.
[Note: Galatians 6:7 says, 'God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.' Those soldiers have it coming.]
But He was rightly crucified.
Think about that.
The only reason I believe I can say this is because He knew what He was sent by His Father to do. He knew it would happen. He knew it had to happen. That technically doesn't make it any more "right" in our eyes, because He is our Lord God. He is our Lamb. He is our King.
But as Jesus Himself said, "Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." [John 10:13]
April 9, 2009
Ch. 391 - His Love is Constant
'You can’t hurry love.
No, you just have to wait.'
These are lines from Diana Ross’ song, You Can’t Hurry Love.
I heard it at a restaurant where I was eating dinner with my grandparents and my cousin, Christopher, after attending a Maundy Thursday service at my grandparents’ church. I couldn’t tell you how many times I’ve heard this song throughout my life. I like it a lot, it’s pretty catchy and I like Diana Ross’ voice. It’s one of those songs of which the lyrics are simple and repetitive, but sweet. It’s one of those songs that easily becomes stuck in your head… and it’s one of those songs that really just won’t ever get old. It’s a classic, in a sense. Anyway, for whatever reason, the two lines I wrote above really stuck out to me. The first time I heard them tonight, I thought, ‘That’s not true.’ In the sense that Ross meant it, it is true, yes. But what I thought of first was God’s love. His love is constant. It can't be waited for. It can’t even be instantaneous – for anyone – because He has always loved and always will. It may take some waiting on His end for us to love Him, but that’s only because we’re foolish humans who can’t even comprehend what true love is.
I’m so thankful for that love which is mine.
It’s a love that I don’t have to hurry because I will have it for all time.
It’s a love that I don’t have to wait for.
Praise God for His love.
' "I have made you known to them, and will continue to make you known in order that the love you have for me may be in them and that I myself may be in them." '
[John 17:26]
No, you just have to wait.'
These are lines from Diana Ross’ song, You Can’t Hurry Love.
I heard it at a restaurant where I was eating dinner with my grandparents and my cousin, Christopher, after attending a Maundy Thursday service at my grandparents’ church. I couldn’t tell you how many times I’ve heard this song throughout my life. I like it a lot, it’s pretty catchy and I like Diana Ross’ voice. It’s one of those songs of which the lyrics are simple and repetitive, but sweet. It’s one of those songs that easily becomes stuck in your head… and it’s one of those songs that really just won’t ever get old. It’s a classic, in a sense. Anyway, for whatever reason, the two lines I wrote above really stuck out to me. The first time I heard them tonight, I thought, ‘That’s not true.’ In the sense that Ross meant it, it is true, yes. But what I thought of first was God’s love. His love is constant. It can't be waited for. It can’t even be instantaneous – for anyone – because He has always loved and always will. It may take some waiting on His end for us to love Him, but that’s only because we’re foolish humans who can’t even comprehend what true love is.
I’m so thankful for that love which is mine.
It’s a love that I don’t have to hurry because I will have it for all time.
It’s a love that I don’t have to wait for.
Praise God for His love.
' "I have made you known to them, and will continue to make you known in order that the love you have for me may be in them and that I myself may be in them." '
[John 17:26]
April 8, 2009
Ch. 390 - God is Power
'At the end of that time, I, Nebuchadnezzar, raised my eyes toward heaven, and my sanity was restored. Then I praised the Most High; I honored and glorified him who lives forever. His dominion is an eternal dominion; his kingdom endures from generation to generation. All the peoples of the earth are regarded as nothing. He does as he pleases with the powers of heaven and the peoples of the earth. No one can hold back his hand or say to him: "What have you done?" '
[Daniel 4:34-35]
[Daniel 4:34-35]
April 7, 2009
Ch. 389 - Emotional Acting
Mankind in America.
We are taught to use emotion to the best of our abilities - especially to get what we want. Think of something that America's known for...
Media.
Movies.
Acting.
Through this medium of "art" we see an exaggeration of emotion and the outcomes of those exaggerations. Why do we often exaggerate? To be noticed. To get attention. Even to embarrass others or guilt people into helping us.
Guilt people into helping us?
"Aye, there's the rub."
If we think we know what reactions we need certain people to have...
'I need to make this person laugh so they'll want to help me.'
'I need to make this person sad so they'll want to help me.'
... then we're going to do whatever it takes to get the outcome we want. The thing is, we go so far as to think that we have to get God to "see" us in a certain way to help us. We think that by acting a certain way we can guilt Him into helping us.
'Oh, if I weep and cry out to God, He'll be completely willing to help me! He'll see what distress I'm in and feel sorry for me and want to make everything all better. And so then I'll take whatever little bit I get and think of it as a huge sign from God that He's heard me!'
Great.
But God doesn't help us based on our acting ability.
He doesn't take into account the number of tears we cry or how far our sobbing voices resound.
He looks at our hearts.
Selfish desires get you nowhere.
Don't let emotions continually get in your way of living a life that is obedient to the true will of God. Discerning what it is that He wants of you may take longer than you'd like, but that should not matter.
'It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect. He makes my feet like the feet of a deer; he enables me to stand on the heights. He trains my hands for battle; my arms can bend a bow of bronze. You give me your shield of victory, and your right hand sustains me; you stoop down to make me great. You broaden the path beneath me, so that my ankles do not turn.'
[Psalm 18:32-36]
We are taught to use emotion to the best of our abilities - especially to get what we want. Think of something that America's known for...
Media.
Movies.
Acting.
Through this medium of "art" we see an exaggeration of emotion and the outcomes of those exaggerations. Why do we often exaggerate? To be noticed. To get attention. Even to embarrass others or guilt people into helping us.
Guilt people into helping us?
"Aye, there's the rub."
If we think we know what reactions we need certain people to have...
'I need to make this person laugh so they'll want to help me.'
'I need to make this person sad so they'll want to help me.'
... then we're going to do whatever it takes to get the outcome we want. The thing is, we go so far as to think that we have to get God to "see" us in a certain way to help us. We think that by acting a certain way we can guilt Him into helping us.
'Oh, if I weep and cry out to God, He'll be completely willing to help me! He'll see what distress I'm in and feel sorry for me and want to make everything all better. And so then I'll take whatever little bit I get and think of it as a huge sign from God that He's heard me!'
Great.
But God doesn't help us based on our acting ability.
He doesn't take into account the number of tears we cry or how far our sobbing voices resound.
He looks at our hearts.
Selfish desires get you nowhere.
Don't let emotions continually get in your way of living a life that is obedient to the true will of God. Discerning what it is that He wants of you may take longer than you'd like, but that should not matter.
'It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect. He makes my feet like the feet of a deer; he enables me to stand on the heights. He trains my hands for battle; my arms can bend a bow of bronze. You give me your shield of victory, and your right hand sustains me; you stoop down to make me great. You broaden the path beneath me, so that my ankles do not turn.'
[Psalm 18:32-36]
April 6, 2009
Ch. 388 - Praise of His Glory
So I'm pretty sure I was supposed to go to China for Central Christian College of the Bible's Outreach Week.
Actually, I'm very sure.
But there can't be anything done about that now.
And that's okay.
It truly is.
"There's no use crying over spilled milk!"
Even if it's chocolate milk. Which is, apparently, what I'm comparing China to... ? I must be really tired.
Anyway. Tonight I was talking to a good friend about the whole situation and this is something he said:
"I understand the hurt over the wrong decision or missed opportunity, but the past is the past. Don't dwell on it too much and get yourself down, learn from it. Maybe this was a small failure so that you would be ready to make a much bigger decision in the future and follow through with it."
Follow through.
This is really important to me.
I think I know what I'm going to ask God to teach me next.
'In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will, in order that we, who were the first to hope in Christ, might be for the praise of his glory.'
[Ephesians 1:11-12]
Actually, I'm very sure.
But there can't be anything done about that now.
And that's okay.
It truly is.
"There's no use crying over spilled milk!"
Even if it's chocolate milk. Which is, apparently, what I'm comparing China to... ? I must be really tired.
Anyway. Tonight I was talking to a good friend about the whole situation and this is something he said:
"I understand the hurt over the wrong decision or missed opportunity, but the past is the past. Don't dwell on it too much and get yourself down, learn from it. Maybe this was a small failure so that you would be ready to make a much bigger decision in the future and follow through with it."
Follow through.
This is really important to me.
I think I know what I'm going to ask God to teach me next.
'In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will, in order that we, who were the first to hope in Christ, might be for the praise of his glory.'
[Ephesians 1:11-12]
April 5, 2009
Ch. 387 - An Evaluation
'Lord, who may dwell in your
sanctuary?
Who may live on your holy hill?
He whose walk is blameless
and who does what is righteous,
who speaks the truth from his heart
and has no slander on his tongue,
who does his neighbor no wrong
and casts no slur on his fellowman,
who despises a vile man
but honors those who fear the Lord,
who keeps his oath
even when it hurts,
who lends his money without usury
and does not accept a bribe against
the innocent.
He who does these things
will never be shaken.'
[Psalm 15]
In David's eyes, would you be allowed to dwell in the Lord's sanctuary?
I wouldn't.
sanctuary?
Who may live on your holy hill?
He whose walk is blameless
and who does what is righteous,
who speaks the truth from his heart
and has no slander on his tongue,
who does his neighbor no wrong
and casts no slur on his fellowman,
who despises a vile man
but honors those who fear the Lord,
who keeps his oath
even when it hurts,
who lends his money without usury
and does not accept a bribe against
the innocent.
He who does these things
will never be shaken.'
[Psalm 15]
In David's eyes, would you be allowed to dwell in the Lord's sanctuary?
I wouldn't.
April 4, 2009
Ch. 386 - Let Go, Already!
Wordly desires are pointless.
Just a reminder.
'The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever.'
[1 John 2:17]
Just a reminder.
'The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever.'
[1 John 2:17]
April 3, 2009
Ch. 385 - My Shelter
I love thinking of God as my shelter. I feel safe and secure in Him.
'He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, "He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust." '
[Psalm 91:1-2]
'He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, "He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust." '
[Psalm 91:1-2]
April 2, 2009
Ch. 384 - God Holds My Life
In Ch. 378 I said, "My life does not matter."
Last night I was playing a game with a few friends and I was joking around with one of them. We were going back and forth, you know, 'You're lame,' "Your face is lame," 'Your mom is lame!' etc. That wasn't the exact exchange; I don't even remember what was said except for his last comment: "Your life doesn't matter."
I replied, "You're right. It doesn't."
The exchange ended there and everybody continued to laugh and joke and have a good time. It was just interesting how that came out and made me sort of stop and think.
'If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself.'
[Galatians 6:3]
Last night I was playing a game with a few friends and I was joking around with one of them. We were going back and forth, you know, 'You're lame,' "Your face is lame," 'Your mom is lame!' etc. That wasn't the exact exchange; I don't even remember what was said except for his last comment: "Your life doesn't matter."
I replied, "You're right. It doesn't."
The exchange ended there and everybody continued to laugh and joke and have a good time. It was just interesting how that came out and made me sort of stop and think.
'If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself.'
[Galatians 6:3]
April 1, 2009
Ch. 383 - Fear
' "I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear him who, after the killing of the body, has power to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him." '
[Luke 12:4-5]
'Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.'
[Proverb 31:30]
Do I fear Him by loving Him?
Do I love Him by fearing Him?
[Luke 12:4-5]
'Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.'
[Proverb 31:30]
Do I fear Him by loving Him?
Do I love Him by fearing Him?
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