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The Parable of the Mustard Seed
~ As we dig into this rich, beautiful parable, may our hearts and minds be enlightened. Take a moment even now to ask God to give you fresh revelation.
Jesus tells a beautiful parable of the Kingdom of God in Matthew 13:31-32. He teaches us:
“The kingdom of heaven is like a grain of mustard seed that a man took and sowed in his field. It is the smallest of all seeds, but when it has grown it is larger than all the garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches.”
Trees are beautiful pictures of God’s ability to take what we view as weak or insignificant, a seed, and make a magnificent and life-giving creation out of it. And Matthew 13 reveals how trees can be viewed as pictures of the very kingdom of their Creator. It’s remarkable that God would begin His kingdom small and grow it by His faithful stewardship into a beautiful and life-giving creation.
God took the seed of the death of one man, Jesus, to create a beautiful tree of salvation for all of humanity.
John 3:17 says:
“For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through Him.”
Our heavenly Father’s wrath over our sin poured out on Jesus allowed God to free the rest of us from eternal condemnation. And through the seed of Jesus’ death, God has been creating a powerful and eternal global movement, bringing people to restored relationship with Himself across thousands of years. Just as the mustard seed grows large enough to become a tree in which birds make their home, the kingdom of God has transferred our citizenship to a new home with Him.
Philippians 3:20 says: “But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.”
John 15:19 says: “If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.”
The Kingdom of God established through Christ has saved us from slavery to this world and ransomed us back into restored relationship with our heavenly Father.
Not only does the parable describe the incredible expanse of God’s kingdom from a few to many, it can also illustrate the seed of salvation planted within each of us that God intends to grow into a beautiful and fruit-bearing tree.
Luke 17:21 says: “The Kingdom of God is in the midst of you.”
God’s kingdom is not built of brick and mortar, but of human hearts.
And 1 Peter 2:2 commands us: “Like newborn infants, desire the pure spiritual milk, so that you may grow by it.”
God’s desire is to water the seed of salvation He’s planted in us with the Spirit and the Word. He longs to mold and shape us into the likeness of Jesus, that we might live lives that bear incredible life-giving fruit.
Hosea 14:4-7 illustrates God’s heart beautifully when it says:
“The Lord says, ‘Then I will heal you of your faithlessness; My love will know no bounds, for My anger will be gone forever. I will be to Israel like a refreshing dew from heaven. Israel will blossom like the lily; it will send roots deep into the soil like the cedars in Lebanon. Its branches will spread out like beautiful olive trees, as fragrant as the cedars of Lebanon. My people will again live under my shade. They will flourish like grain and blossom like grapevines. They will be as fragrant as the wines of Lebanon.”
God wants to constantly steward this gift of salvation in each of us, as He does with the global advancement of His Kingdom, that we might bear the wonderful fruit of the Spirit in every area of our lives.
And God is so patient with us. The earth illustrates His patience. Trees grow year after year, season to season by His faithful stewardship. Flowers never begin as beautiful as they are in full bloom. The earth is constantly undergoing abundant transformation as God’s creation grows and changes. You and I are no different. God’s plan has always been to mold us into beautiful pictures of His love. He’s always longed to fashion us until we walk in full, restored relationship with Him. And by the life and death of Christ, He’s paved the way for His desires to come to fruition. All that’s left is for us to engage fully in this wonderful process He’s created for us. Engage in the growth He longs to birth in you by spending time in His presence and His Word. Allow His gaze to transform you into His likeness. Live in obedience to the Word, and allow it to lead you to an un-conformed life in this world. Follow the guidance of the Spirit as He brings healing to your heart and fruit in your life.
Spend time in prayer allowing God to work in your heart today.
How great is God’s love for us that He doesn’t leave us where we are, but is always transforming us! In the blink of an eye, God sees who we’ve been, who we are, and who we will be. He knows your form, how He’s created you, and what you were born to do. The more time you spend allowing Him to transform you, the more you will understand yourself. May you discover and engage with all that your heavenly Father wants to do in you through His love today.
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~ published by: First 15
https://www.first15.org/devotionals/the-parable-of-the-mustard-seed-2023/
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The Parable of the Good Shepherd
Have you ever experienced a sense of grand perspective where you realize your smallness in comparison to the earth’s grandeur? Have you ever contemplated your small stature in light of how colossal the universe is? Every now and then, when I get a sense of my smallness, I am overcome by the fear of being lost. I think, “Who will show me my path in this seemingly increasing world? Who will guide me through the various trials and changes that will undoubtedly come my way? Who will help me?”
One of my favorite metaphors in Scripture is God as the Good Shepherd. Jesus is the most equipped guide we could ever have. He holds all of creation in the palm of His hand, and yet He knows the number of hairs on our head. He is the God of the gigantic and a lover of every little detail about us. And He longs to lead us to safe pasture. As we look at the parable of God as the Good Shepherd today, allow your faith and affections to be stirred by God’s promise to guide you into the matchless life He has in store for you.
John 10:14-15 says:
“I am the good Shepherd. I know My own sheep, and they know Me, as the Father knows Me, and I know the Father. I lay down My life for the sheep.”
Jesus paved the way for us to enter into the most amazing pasture of all: the very presence of the living God. He laid down His life as our Good Shepherd that we might eat of the fruit of His death and resurrection. But God didn’t only lead us to heaven; He continually leads us as our Good Shepherd day in and day out.
In the famous Psalm 23 David writes:
“The Lord is my Shepherd, I will not be in need. He lets me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul; He guides me along the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You have anointed my head with oil; My cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”
God’s staff is meant to comfort us. As our Good Shepherd He promises to lead us daily to the plans He has for us. That doesn’t always mean that we will be led out of “the valley of the shadow of death,” but that in the valley He will be with us. Our great comfort is the fact that God will never leave us or forsake us (Deuteronomy 31:6). As Psalm 139:9-10 says, “If I take the wings of the morning and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, even there Your hand shall lead me, and Your right hand shall hold me.” God is with us in times of trouble. He will protect us, provide for us, and lead us to still waters.
God longs to guide you today.
• What trouble is before you?
• Where do you need guidance?
• Where do you need help?
God promises to be your Good Shepherd. You have the most high God on your side. You can trust in His leadership. Jesus was faithful to come and die so that you might have eternal life. He is faithful to lead you to heaven, and He will certainly lead you through whatever trial you are going through now.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding; think about Him in all your ways, and He will guide you on the right paths.” ~ Proverbs 3:5-6
Your God is a trustworthy Shepherd. Enter into prayer with expectancy that He will guide you perfectly in His perfect timing. Cast your cares on Him and trust Him. Allow Him to “guide you on the right paths” as you follow the leadership of the Holy Spirit.
“Now may the God of peace, who brought up from the dead our Lord Jesus — the great Shepherd of the sheep — with the blood of the everlasting covenant, equip you with all that is good to do His will, working in us what is pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ. Glory belongs to Him forever and ever. Amen.” ~ Hebrews 13:20-21
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~ published by: First 15
https://www.first15.org/devotionals/the-parable-of-the-good-shepherd-2023/
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God Deserves Our Thanks... Always!
"When Daniel learned that the document had been signed [by King Darius], he went into his house. The windows in its upper room opened toward Jerusalem, and three times a day he got down on his knees, prayed, and gave thanks to his God, just as he had done before." ~ Daniel 6:10
Daniel is one of my favorite characters in the Bible. Since his youth, he was an example of devotion and obedience to God amidst his circumstances. Even when faced with threats of death, he remained faithful and gave thanks to God.
During king Darius' reign, Daniel was placed as one of three high officials that were placed throughout the kingdom. Some folks became jealous of Daniel and tried to find fault in him to accuse him before the king. When they were unable to find error in him, they decided to try and attack his faith. They tricked the king into establishing a law where petitions could not be made to any god or man besides the king. The jealous officials did this because they knew of Daniel's close relationship with God and his faithfulness to Him. When Daniel heard of this, he could have become angry of accused God of injustice, but instead he went home and did what he always did… he prayed and gave thanks to God.
It would be interesting to know what Daniel thanked God for that day. Was it for His constant provision? His faithfulness in every circumstance? His friendship and the fact that he was never alone? Every bit of this was true even if God had chosen not to rescue Daniel from the lion's den after having chosen to obey God over the king's decree. Daniel chose to express gratitude and remain faithful regardless of what happened to him, and God protected him.
The God of Daniel is the same God we worship and serve today! His faithfulness, goodness, protection, provision, and friendship has not changed. Choose to put God above all else, express your gratitude to God daily for who He is, and remain faithful to His calling in your life.
Suggested Prayer:
Dear God, thank You for who You are and all You have done. You are my God, my protector, my provider, and my friend. I love You, Lord. In Jesus' name, amen.
__________________
~ by Crystal B (https://www.actsweb.org)
~ To receive The Daily Encourager FREE each weekday, click on the following link: http://go.netatlantic.com/read/all_forums/subscribe?name=thedailyencourager
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Jesus, Our Rock
~ Our compassionate Savior offers spiritual, physical, and emotional refuge for the hurting.
Scripture Reading:
"I am Yahweh - the Lord, and I do not change." ~ Malachi 3:6
God’s character never changes — Jesus Christ always remains the same. What a comfort for believers! And the better we know Him, the easier it will be to turn to Him for refuge. So today, let’s learn more about His nature:
Jesus ...
• Forgave others. He showed mercy, not judgment, to those who recognized their sin.
• Comforted the hurting. He visited Mary and Martha, who were mourning the loss of their brother Lazarus (John 11:1-45).
• Provided for needs. After spending three days healing, He was concerned that the large crowd hadn’t eaten. He could have sent all 4,000 away to find their own food, but He provided more than enough to satisfy their hunger (Mark 8:1-9).
• Interceded for His disciples. Just before He was crucified, Jesus asked the Father to protect and sanctify His followers, including you and me (John 17:15-20).
• Strengthened believers, and gave them power to do God’s work. In Acts 1:8, the Lord sent His disciples out to share the gospel, assuring them, “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you.”
Jesus still forgives, still comforts, still provides, still intercedes, and still empowers. What a blessing that we can find refuge in our amazing Lord!
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~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/jesus-our-rock
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The Parable of the Prodigal Son
There isn’t a single passage of Scripture that better illustrates the heart of our heavenly Father than the parable of the prodigal son. So as to not miss any of the details of this life-changing passage, open your heart to the Spirit as you read it in its entirety:
“Jesus told them this story: “A man had two sons. The younger son told his father, ‘I want my share of your estate now before you die.’ So, his father agreed to divide his wealth between his sons. A few days later this younger son packed all his belongings and moved to a distant land, and there he wasted all his money in wild living. About the time his money ran out, a great famine swept over the land, and he began to starve. He persuaded a local farmer to hire him, and the man sent him into his fields to feed the pigs. The young man became so hungry that even the pods he was feeding the pigs looked good to him. But no one gave him anything.”
“When he finally came to his senses, he said to himself, ‘At home even the hired servants have food enough to spare, and here I am dying of hunger! I will go home to my father and say, “Father, I have sinned against both heaven and you, and I am no longer worthy of being called your son. Please take me on as a hired servant.” So, he returned home to his father. And while he was still a long way off, his father saw him coming. Filled with love and compassion, he ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him. His son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against both heaven and you, and I am no longer worthy of being called your son.’”
“But his father said to the servants, ‘Quick! Bring the finest robe in the house and put it on him. Get a ring for his finger and sandals for his feet. And kill the calf we have been fattening. We must celebrate with a feast, for this son of mine was dead and has now returned to life. He was lost, but now he is found.’ So, the party began.”
“Meanwhile, the older son was in the fields working. When he returned home, he heard music and dancing in the house, and he asked one of the servants what was going on. ‘Your brother is back,’ he was told, ‘and your father has killed the fattened calf. We are celebrating because of his safe return.’ The older brother was angry and wouldn’t go in. His father came out and begged him, but he replied, ‘All these years I’ve slaved for you and never once refused to do a single thing you told me to. And in all that time you never gave me even one young goat for a feast with my friends. Yet when this son of yours comes back after squandering your money on prostitutes, you celebrate by killing the fattened calf!’
“His father said to him, ‘Look, dear son, you have always stayed by me, and everything I have is yours. We had to celebrate this happy day. For your brother was dead and has come back to life! He was lost, but now he is found!’” (Luke 15:11-32)
The life-changing core of the gospel is that when we feel far from God, He is never far from us. The moment we turn back toward Him, He runs out to meet us. The moment we lower ourselves in response to our sin, He exalts us, calls us His child, and throws a party in our honor.
Sometimes the most important truths are the simple ones. Sometimes the very word we need most is the truth we’ve heard thousands of times. My prayer for you today is that you wouldn’t extend yourself past the foundation of the gospel. God’s desire is that we would linger in the revelation of the aftermath of Jesus’ work, that through His life, death, and resurrection we have been raised to newness of life (Romans 6:4). Get lost today in the profound grace of your loving God. Of no work of your own, you have been set free from the bonds of this earth and brought back into the fold of your loving heavenly Father. Through the sacrifice of King Jesus, you have been crowned as a co-heir with Christ (Romans 8:17).
Take time today to simply rest in the foundational truth of the gospel. Run toward God with all humility and allow your heart to be raised up as He exalts you. Humble yourself in light of His majesty and allow Him to pour out a joy over you like you have never felt before. God has every reason to condemn you, but out of His overwhelming love He has chosen to call you His beloved child. Meditate on this life-changing truth and respond to His love with the offering of your life.
There is nothing you could do that could separate you from the love of your heavenly Father. The prodigal son sinned against his father in the worst way a son could. And still the father ran out to meet him at first glance of his son’s return. Your heavenly Father runs to meet you anytime you turn toward Him. Don’t let the enemy spread lies to you that you are too dirty for God, or that you have to fix yourself before you can spend time in His presence. Your relationship with God is based completely on grace, not on works. He loves you because He loves you, not because of what you do. Go out today in the knowledge that you are eternally loved by your heavenly Father. And may His love spur you toward a life lived in the abundance of restored relationship.
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~ published by: First 15
https://www.first15.org/devotionals/the-parable-of-the-prodigal-son-2023/
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The Treasure of Faith
~ Spiritual legacies begin with God’s faithful ones — will others learn of Christ through you?
Scripture Reading: 2 Timothy 1:5-14
Where does faith come from?
It’s a gift of God, ultimately, but the Bible repeatedly points to the value of a faithful life. One example is the apostle Paul’s disciple, Timothy, whose mother and grandmother were strong role models of faith.
We know nothing of Lois or Eunice beyond the mention of them in 2 Timothy 1:5. They are probably the reason the young minister had known “the sacred writings” of Scripture all his life — from these devout women, in other words, he had received “the wisdom that leads to salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus” (2 Timothy 3:15).
But what about those of us without a legacy like Timothy’s?
Paul spoke to that as well, saying that God “saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace” (2 Timothy 1:9).
Like Timothy, those of us with godly parents enjoy the fruit of their faithfulness. But if you’re the first believer in your family, then you’re creating the legacy of faithfulness for future generations. That’s what Paul charges Timothy to protect and “entrust … to faithful people” (2 Timothy 2:2). And it’s our charge, too. If we guard and pass down this treasure, our loved ones will, by God’s grace, continue the tradition of faith.
_________________
~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/the-treasure-of-faith
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The Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector
~ May we today begin a fresh revival of humility in the church as we humble ourselves before God in prayer and honest worship. I want to encourage you to be open and vulnerable as you approach the Lord today.
The ministry of Jesus was one of life-giving transformation. His life, death, and resurrection ushered in a completely new way of relating to God: the way of grace. One of the best examples of Jesus shifting paradigms comes in His parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector.
Luke 18:10-14 says:
“Two men went to the Temple to pray. One was a Pharisee, and the other was a despised tax collector. The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed this prayer: ‘I thank you, God, that I am not like other people — cheaters, sinners, adulterers. I’m certainly not like that tax collector! I fast twice a week, and I give You a tenth of my income.’
“But the tax collector stood at a distance and dared not even lift his eyes to heaven as he prayed. Instead, he beat his chest in sorrow, saying, ‘O God, be merciful to me, for I am a sinner.’ I tell you, this sinner, not the Pharisee, returned home justified before God. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”
Let’s open our hearts and allow the Spirit to guide us to live life more like the tax collector than the Pharisee. Let’s allow Him to lead us to a life lived in the new covenant of grace.
In the time of Jesus, God’s people were completely starved for relationship with Him. Judaism had become a religion of regulations rather than relationship. God’s people believed that their lives were totally based on their works, placing the religious Pharisees at the top of the totem pole stretching up to God. The Pharisees believed they were justified before God because of their works, as if they could earn their way into right standing with God. So, imagine the shock of Jesus’ listeners when He says that the tax collector, the most hated of all Jews, went home justified before the Lord as the result of his humility. Imagine the shock and anger of the Pharisees in learning that all they had worked for, all the rules and regulations they had lived by, actually placed them lower in stature than any other Jew in the sight of God.
The parable of the Pharisee and tax collector offers amazing news for each of us. The principle Jesus teaches here in Luke 18 is that the greatest posture of our heart is one of humility, not perfection. The way to God is not one of works, but of grace. Jesus teaches that whatever weakness you have, whatever sin you struggle with, all God asks of you is that you come before Him and ask for His mercy. All He requires of you is a repentant heart.
You see, the Lord is always after your heart. All the works of the Pharisees were birthed out of their own pride. In their egotism they thought they could earn relationship with the one, true, and holy God. All of their religious deeds were done not out of their love for God, but out of their love for their own reputation. However, the tax collector had nothing to boast about. He lived his life robbing his own people to fill the pockets of the Romans who enslaved them. He was made wealthy by stealing from his own people. But in his desperation, he cried out to God for help, and God heard his cry.
Know that God hears your cry today when it comes out of the reality of your need for Him. He answers your need for forgiveness and relationship with the overwhelming power of His presence.
So, ask yourself today:
• What do you value most?
• Do you value your own reputation or God’s opinion?
• Are you living in light of God’s grace or trying to earn it?
• Are you going through the motions of religion in order to earn your way into relationship with God, or are you living in response to the wealth of love you’ve freely received in Christ?
Wherever you are, know that it is never too late to come before your heavenly Father in humility. It is never too late to repent of any area in which pride has been your motivation and decide to live your life on the foundation of grace. It is never too late to posture your heart to receive the depths of love and mercy your heavenly Father longs to give you. Christ came to usher in the path of grace, not of works. He came so that you might live in His strength, not your own. The price of His mercy is a humble heart because humility is the key that unlocks the depths of your soul to receive the free gift of His grace. God won’t fill what you believe is already full. He won’t help where you don’t truly believe you need Him. But if you’ll cry out to Him and ask Him for His mercy for your sin and His love to satisfy your need, He will fill your life with the gift of His unending presence.
Posture your heart like that of the tax collector as you pray. Follow his model of humility and find satisfaction for the places of your heart that are in need of God’s love.
Christ’s Humility and Exaltation
Philippians 2:3-7 says:
“Do nothing out of rivalry or conceit, but in humility consider others as more important than yourselves. Everyone should look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others. Make your own attitude that of Christ Jesus, who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God as something to be used for His own advantage. Instead, He emptied Himself by assuming the form of a slave, taking on the likeness of men. And when He had come as a man in His external form, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death — even to death on a cross.”
If God Himself lived His life in total humility, then we must follow His example in order to walk in the favor and abundance God longs to bestow on us. Look to Christ as your example, and discover God’s desire to exalt you as you bow yourself before Him as your Lord and King.
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~ published by: First 15
https://www.first15.org/devotionals/the-parable-of-the-pharisee-and-the-tax-collector-2023/
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A Foundation of Affection
~ God is such a good, loving Father that He wants us to live with a foundational understanding of His affection toward us.
One of the most wonderful results of knowing the heart of God is living with a foundation of affection. Often, we spend too much of our daily time and energy working for the affections of others. From trying to earn the respect and admiration of friends and family to vying for approval from a complete stranger, we are in constant need of affection.
But as believers we’ve been given a wellspring of love and affection in communion with our heavenly Father. There’s nothing we have to do or could ever do to earn the love of God. His love is the beginning. His affection is meant to be the catalyst for our emotions, thoughts, and actions rather than the result. It’s for this reason God calls us to be rooted and grounded in His love.
Ephesians 3:17-19 says, "So that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith — that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God."
When we seek a fresh revelation of God’s unconditional love, we naturally become secure and unshakable. When we discover the unfathomable depths of God’s affection for us, we naturally stop vying for love from others. And as we daily access the heart of God we become filled with all His fullness, richly satisfied with a love far greater than we could ever earn.
1 John 4:16 says, “Whoever abides in love abides in God.” Take time to abide in the love of your heavenly Father. Let Him surround you with His transcendent peace. Let Him reveal His vast and overwhelming affection for you. And live today in light of God’s glorious grace that you might devote your time and energy to responding to love rather than earning it. May God’s affection be your foundation today.
Ephesians 5:2 says, “And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.”
Live today as an act of worship to a God who’s loved you to greater depths than you could ever repay. Seek to love God in all you do, think, feel, and say. Whether interacting with a stranger, eating a meal with a friend, working, walking, or breathing, do it all for the glory of your loving Father. Allow God’s affection to be the foundation for your own. May your life satisfy the heart of God and stir up others around you to greater levels of devotion to our worthy King.
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~ published by: First 15
https://www.first15.org/devotionals/a-foundation-of-affection-2023/
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The Parable of the Lamp on a Stand
~ As we continue to look at the profound, life-transforming concepts Jesus shared through parables, today we’ll focus on the parable of the lamp on a stand.
Reading Matthew 5:14-15 used to stress me out. Jesus says, “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house.” How can we with all our mistakes, misgivings, and failures be “the light of the world?” How could God in all His wisdom choose to use us to reveal Jesus, the only hope of eternal salvation, to a lost and dying world?
As I grow in my knowledge of God’s heart, I grow in the revelation of His desire to use me. Passages like Matthew 5:14-15 used to focus my attention on my own sin and darkness rather than God’s grace and love. But faithfully in His love, He guides my thoughts to what matters: the overwhelming reality of the Holy Spirit transforming me into the image of the God who created me. Today, let’s allow the Spirit and the Word to transform the way we view ourselves and how God in His infinite wisdom would use us to change the world.
Ephesians 2:10 says:
“For we are His [God’s] creation, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared ahead of time so that we should walk in them.”
At salvation your identity changed. You are now “created in Christ Jesus.”
2 Corinthians 5:17 says it this way:
“This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!”
You are a new creation not by your own doing, but by the powerful finished work of Christ Jesus on the cross. At salvation your sins were wiped away, cast off as far as the east is from the west. Such was the transformation that took place in your heart at salvation that you could be filled with God Himself.
Jesus says in John 14:16-17:
“And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Counselor to be with you forever. He is the Spirit of Truth. The world is unable to receive Him because it doesn’t see Him or know Him. But you do know Him, because He remains with you and will be in you.”
God Himself “dwells with you” and through salvation now lives inside you.
Passages like the parable of the lamp on a stand used to stress me out because I didn’t understand what God wanted to reveal through me to the world. I used to think God wanted to reveal perfection in me, that I had to act perfectly to demonstrate Christ. What I didn’t realize is that the greatest revelation I could give a broken and needy world is that God, through the immeasurable depth of His love, meets me in my brokenness and continually makes me whole. I realized that God, only by His grace, is taking what was lost, weak, selfish, and lonely and is filling me with unimaginable love and security through restored relationship with Him. God doesn’t want you to reveal perfection. He wants to reveal the fact that in your imperfection He has loved you from the beginning with an everlasting love.
Because you are weak and in need of God, you are the absolute best person to lead others to Jesus. If you act like you have everything together, as if nothing is wrong, then those distant from God will have no reason to believe God desires relationship with them. But in revealing your imperfection, in being honest and real with those around you, you will offer hope to a world that has none. You will reveal the core of the gospel: that God has incredible works prepared for those who simply come to Him in need and cry out for His help. In your imperfection you are a perfect example of Jesus’ love that comes only by grace.
God desires to shine the light of His love through you today in powerful ways. He longs to reveal to others how deeply He has loved you in His grace. He has incredible plans in store for you if you will simply be real with a world that desperately needs relationship with their Creator. Have the courage to be yourself and to be honest and vulnerable. Honesty is all your heavenly Father asks of you. In your honesty, God will reveal a greater love than this world has ever known. In the reality of who you are, God will shine forth hope, guiding those who are lost to the safe shores of restored relationship with Him. May you find peace in the fact that God longs to use you. May you find purpose in the works He has set before you to do. And may you find joy in the revelation of God’s immeasurable love poured out on you through His grace.
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~ published by: First 15
https://www.first15.org/devotionals/the-parable-of-the-lamp-on-a-stand-2023/
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Happy Thanksgiving Day!
Thanksgiving Day is about uniting all of the American people in the same day annually - to stop what we are doing - and to give the Lord God praise and thanks for all that He has done for us. Secular society would have us believe that it is about the early pilgrims having a feast with the Native American peoples - but that is merely a distraction to attempt to turn our focus away from God, and His gracious mercy upon us as a nation and people.
Although the first President of the United States - George Washington - had the first Day of Thanksgiving, it was not established as an annual Day of Thanksgiving until the sixteenth President - Abraham Lincoln - proclaimed it as a national event. The following is President Lincoln's proclamation:
"It is the duty of nations as well as of men to owe their dependence upon the overruling power of God; to confess their sins and transgressions in humble sorrow, yet with assured hope that genuine repentance will lead to mercy and pardon; and to recognize the sublime truth, announced in the Holy Scripture and proven by all history, that those nations are blessed whose God is the Lord."
"We have been the recipients of the choicest bounties of heaven; we have been preserved these many years in peace and prosperity; we have grown in numbers, wealth and power as no other nation has ever grown. But we have forgotten God. We have forgotten the gracious hand which preserved us in peace and multiplied and enriched and strengthened us, and we have vainly imagined, in the deceitfulness of our hearts, that all these blessings were produced by some superior wisdom and virtue of our own. Intoxicated with unbroken success we have become too self-sufficient to feel the necessity of redeeming and preserving grace, too proud to pray to the God that made us."
"It has seemed to me fit and proper that God should be solemnly, reverently, and gratefully acknowledged, as with one heart and one voice, by the whole American people. I do therefore invite my fellow citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November as a day of Thanksgiving and praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the heavens."
It is worth noting that President Lincoln established the Day of Thanksgiving during the worst period (to date) of the United States of America - the Civil War in 1863. Let this also be a reminder to us - that no matter how dark or bleak our current situation would seem - we are to give God thanks for all that He has brought us through, and to trust Him to bring us through this day, and all future days that are ahead of us.
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Happy Thanksgiving Day!
Thanksgiving Day is about uniting all of the American people in the same day annually - to stop what we are doing - and to give the Lord God praise and thanks for all that He has done for us. Secular society would have us believe that it is about the early pilgrims having a feast with the Native American peoples - but that is merely a distraction to attempt to turn our focus away from God, and His gracious mercy upon us as a nation and people.
Although the first President of the United States - George Washington - had the first Day of Thanksgiving, it was not established as an annual Day of Thanksgiving until the sixteenth President - Abraham Lincoln - proclaimed it as a national event. The following is President Lincoln's proclamation:
"It is the duty of nations as well as of men to owe their dependence upon the overruling power of God; to confess their sins and transgressions in humble sorrow, yet with assured hope that genuine repentance will lead to mercy and pardon; and to recognize the sublime truth, announced in the Holy Scripture and proven by all history, that those nations are blessed whose God is the Lord."
"We have been the recipients of the choicest bounties of heaven; we have been preserved these many years in peace and prosperity; we have grown in numbers, wealth and power as no other nation has ever grown. But we have forgotten God. We have forgotten the gracious hand which preserved us in peace and multiplied and enriched and strengthened us, and we have vainly imagined, in the deceitfulness of our hearts, that all these blessings were produced by some superior wisdom and virtue of our own. Intoxicated with unbroken success we have become too self-sufficient to feel the necessity of redeeming and preserving grace, too proud to pray to the God that made us."
"It has seemed to me fit and proper that God should be solemnly, reverently, and gratefully acknowledged, as with one heart and one voice, by the whole American people. I do therefore invite my fellow citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November as a day of Thanksgiving and praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the heavens."
It is worth noting that President Lincoln established the Day of Thanksgiving during the worst period (to date) of the United States of America - the Civil War in 1863. Let this also be a reminder to us - that no matter how dark or bleak our current situation would seem - we are to give God thanks for all that He has brought us through, and to trust Him to bring us through this day, and all future days that are ahead of us.
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If You Say So
The year was 1997. I'd just finished my homework and downed a peanut butter sandwich made with Eggo waffles, and the burning desire for milk kicked in. I hopped over the back of my sofa at the commercial break of Saved by the Bell, flung open the fridge and began gulping down cold milk straight out of the carton. I was satisfied for about 0.3 seconds until I realized...this milk had turned, this milk was not my friend. It wasn’t a day or two old, it was over a week old. Needless to say, I puked so hard I dislodged gum that had been in my small intestine since the second grade, and I learned on that day what Matthew speaks of in Matthew 15:10. The gospel of Matthew tells us that there is something more dangerous than taking in something bad, and that is speaking out something that is bad.
When God hears you speak about your meeting as terrible, your car as crappy, your kids as ungrateful, your husband as lazy, your town as small, your house as cramped...His response is: If you say so. You will feel how you speak and find what you seek.
Likewise, there is power in speaking out something that is good.
At creation, God spoke the world to life. At the incarnation, God spoke Jesus into our world. That tells you something about the weight of words. And it should humble you to know that God has given you the same power of speech. That is part of the terrible privilege of being made in His image. You have great power in your speech that can unleash a forceful fury that can create, tear down, build, heal, or hurt.
One of my favorite stories in Scripture shows what I am trying to communicate. It is from Matthew 8, when a centurion came to Jesus for help because his servant was seriously ill. In response to this man’s plea, Jesus immediately agrees to come to the man’s home and treat the boy. This is where it gets really interesting. The centurion protests that there is no need for Jesus to enter his home. For one, it would be inconvenient for Jesus to have to travel, and secondly, if He entered the house of a Gentile He would be ceremonially defiled and have to go through a cleansing ritual before His daily life could continue. Translation: He would get Gentile cooties. He didn’t want Jesus to be put out while doing him a favor. When Jesus heard this He marveled, because the centurion’s faith was noteworthy. Jesus then turned and spoke 3 incredible words of wisdom that were original to Him long before they were sung by Paul McCartney and John Lennon: Let it be. Matthew 8:13 “as you have believed, so let it be done for you.” This is actually where we get our word AMEN. Amen translated directly into our language means “let it be.” When we say amen we are saying, “may what I have prayed come to pass.” But in light of the response of what happened in this interaction between the centurion and Jesus, our goal should be to pray such a gutsy prayer that with raised eyebrows God would say to you: Amen, let it be.
It is up to you whether the self-fulfilling prophecies you articulate become a delight or a dungeon. God’s response to the way you speak is: If you say so.
Questions to Ask Yourself:
1. How do I speak to myself and others?
2. In what way is my speech positive?
3. In what ways do I have a hard time controlling my tongue?
Think of an area of your life you tend to complain about or speak negatively of. Challenge yourself this week, every time you are tempted to complain, to find a way to thank God instead.
_____________________
~ by Levi Lusko
https://my.bible.com/reading-plans/15075-i-declare-war-4-keys-to-winning-the-battle-with
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Living in the Present
~ Encouraging others in their Christian walk is a daily work with eternal impact.
Scripture Reading: Hebrews 10:23-25
Many of us spend a great deal of energy in the present moment dwelling on the past and the future. We know that the past is beyond our control, but we worry about it. We tend to believe the future belongs to us, yet we fret about what it holds and whether it will bring joy or pain.
The gospel urges us to entrust both the past and the future to God. That mindset frees us to live for the Lord in the only moment we can: the present. Yes, there is an aspect of God’s kingdom that is not yet — its fullness hasn’t yet arrived. But at the same time, we live in His kingdom here and now.
In Hebrews 3:13, the call to encourage one another every day isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a vital practice for spiritual growth. We need the regular support of Christian brothers and sisters to help us successfully navigate each day’s challenges and opportunities. Encouraging each other can be a beacon of light and hope to those around us.
That’s the author’s focus in Hebrews 3:13. If we want to guard against our hearts being “hardened by the deceitfulness of sin,” we should give and receive encouragement. It is good to speak words of affirmation, hope, and accountability regularly. But even when offered just once, they can have a long-lasting effect, far beyond the present moment.
_________________
~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/living-in-the-present
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The Hand
"Your hand will guide me, Your right hand will hold me fast." ~ Psalms 139:10
Thanksgiving Day was near. The first grade teacher gave her class a fun assignment — to draw a picture of something for which they were thankful.
Most of the class might be considered economically disadvantaged, but still many would celebrate the holiday with turkey and other traditional goodies of the season. These, the teacher thought, would be the subjects of most of her student's art. And they were.
But Douglas made a different kind of picture. Douglas was a different kind of boy. He was the teacher's true child of misery — frail and unhappy. As other children played at recess, Douglas was likely to stand close by her side. One could only guess at the pain Douglas felt behind those sad eyes.
Yes, his picture was different. When asked to draw a picture of something for which he was thankful, he drew a hand. Nothing else. Just an empty hand.
His abstract image captured the imagination of his peers. Whose hand could it be? One child guessed it was the hand of a farmer, because farmers raise turkeys. Another suggested a police officer, because the police protect and care for people. Still others guessed it was the hand of God, for God feeds us. And so the discussion went - until the teacher almost forgot the young artist himself.
When the children had gone on to other assignments, she paused at Douglas' desk, bent down, and asked him whose hand it was. The little boy looked away and murmured, "It's yours, teacher."
She recalled the times she had taken his hand and walked with him here or there, as she had the other students. How often had she said, "Take my hand, Douglas, we'll go outside." Or, "Let me show you how to hold your pencil." Or, "Let's do this together." Douglas was most thankful for his teacher's hand. Brushing aside a tear, she went on with her work.
The story speaks of more than thankfulness. It says something about teachers teaching and parents parenting and friends showing friendship, and how much it means to the “Douglases” of the world. They might not always say thanks; but they will remember the hand that reaches out.
"I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand." ~ Psalms 73:23
_________________
~ published by: The Daily Encourager
~ To receive The Daily Encourager FREE each weekday, click on the following link: http://go.netatlantic.com/read/all_forums/subscribe?name=thedailyencourager
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A Life Without Lack
~ The longer we follow Jesus, the more we discover that He is all we truly need.
Scripture Reading: Psalm 23
“How much is enough?” a reporter once asked John D. Rockefeller, founder of Standard Oil and the first American billionaire. “Just a little bit more,” Rockefeller said. While few of us have the resources of the super wealthy, we face the same question. Our world is obsessed with getting more, spending more, doing more. But at the root of an answer like Rockefeller’s is a misunderstanding about who provides for us.
David understood that God was his provider. “I will not be in need,” he wrote in verse 1 of Psalm 23. In other words, because he belonged to the Lord, he was able to experience a life without lack.
We can think about this in two ways:
First, we can expect God to give us everything we think we need. And when we don’t get it, we look for someone — or Someone — to blame. Or, as Jesus and His followers laid out, there’s a second and better approach: Gratefully receive what God has provided and allow Him to change our heart. In that way, even our needs are governed by our submission to Him.
Reading the first verse of Psalm 23 should immediately remind us of John 10:11, where Jesus says, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.” The transforming truth of the gospel is that we have more than enough because Jesus gave us [all of] Himself.
_________________
~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/a-life-without-lack
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Everything That Has Breath Shall Praise the Lord
~ Make it your daily habit to look for the good things God gives and does.
Scripture Reading: Psalm 150:1-6
The desire to give praise is hardwired in the human spirit — it’s an impulse we can’t ignore. And as Christians, we’re called to direct that tendency to the One who made us. The apostle Peter says it like this:
“You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light” ~ 1 Peter 2:9
It’s a beautiful truth that we are God’s own people — created, chosen, and called by Him to live a life of praise; both on our own and with other believers. In Psalm 34, David says, “I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth” (Psalm 34:1). However, he’s not content to be a solo act. He exhorts other believers to join him: “Exalt the Lord with me, and let’s exalt His name together” (Psalm 34:3).
So let’s praise Him at church on Sunday morning and on our front porches at sunset — when we start the workday and each evening as we lie down to rest. Also, let’s remember to praise Him not only for what He has done — but also for the excellency of His character. God truly is worthy of our adoration!
______________
~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/everything-that-has-breath-shall-praise
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The Desire to Live a Life of Significance
People often ask a common question when it looks like their time on earth is drawing to a close:
“Did my life matter?”
• Have you ever wondered that?
• Have you ever taken a minute to look back on your life and wonder if all your efforts will mean a thing when you’re gone?
We all dream of being a great success. No children playing sports in their backyard fantasize about hanging up the towel after high school. They dream of making it pro. No musician dreams about playing to a handful of people. They see themselves on a massive stage in front of thousands of screaming fans. We all have a desire to make an impact in this world. We all desire to make a difference to the degree that we will be remembered when we’re gone.
God designed us all with this desire while having the perfect plan to satisfy it. The problem is that we have twisted what success really looks like. We’ve made success into something prideful — an idea constrained to the ways of this world. We’ve been living under the notion that living a life of significance is all about ourselves. You see, making an impact doesn’t necessarily mean you’re known by the entire population, have books written about you, or are even a success at all in the eyes of the world. Success is solely defined by God and solely achieved by your faithfulness to whatever He has called you to. You are meant for the significance that faithfulness to God brings, not an impact wrought with struggle for achievement by the world’s standards.
The Bible clearly defines success as being faithful to what God has spoken. In Matthew 25:21 God says:
“Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your Master.”
Your desire to make an impact will only be satisfied by living in obedience to God’s will for you. It’s His plan we’re all a part of, not our own. God has brought us into the glorious narrative that has been playing out from the foundation of the earth. Being faithful to your page in God’s grand narrative has an eternal significance more important and long-lasting than anything you could achieve on your own. One day, all of the grand stories of what mankind has done in pursuit of our own glory will be brought to nothing. One King will stand above all. Jesus Christ will be given His reward, and we will reign alongside Him forever.
Choose to live a life of significance for eternity today.
Be faithful first to love God and then to love others with compassion and humility. You have a chance to lead people into eternal life. You have a chance to store up your treasure in heaven where moth and rust will not destroy (Matthew 6:19-20). You have a chance today to cause change and significance beyond anything you could imagine. Allow God to define your identity and purpose. Experience the joy and fulfillment that can only be found in passionate communion with your heavenly Father.
Jesus is the perfect example of what it looks like to live a life of significance because He was wholly surrendered to the will of the Father. At the end of His ministry, He had only a few followers that stood by Him. He never wrote a book or even traveled more than a few hundred miles from where He was born. Rather than considering Him successful, the world killed Him. But He made the biggest impact of anyone in all of history. Live like Jesus today. Live solely for the opinion of God, and find your satisfaction in being faithful to what He has called you to. May your day be filled with the abundant life that comes from surrender to the perfect plans of God.
_________________
~ published by: First 15
https://www.first15.org/devotionals/the-desire-to-lie-a-life-of-significance-2023/
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Thank you for sharing those wonderful dreams! What a day it will be when we finally hear our Lord and Saviour speak the words, "Well done, My good and faithful servant." God bless you my friend!
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Thank you for sharing those wonderful dreams! What a day it will be when we finally hear our Lord and Saviour speak the words, "Well done, My good and faithful servant." God bless you my friend!
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Find Help in God’s Presence
~ Take your pain to the Lord — you can rely on Him.
Scripture Reading: Psalm 42:5-11
Whenever you’re feeling down, the Psalms are an excellent source of comfort and encouragement. In today’s passage, the psalmist shares how God offers comfort to you, His child, in hard times. To receive it, you should …
1. Look within:
Before you can deal with despair, you need to know what is causing it. If you’re not sure, ask the Lord to help you figure out what’s going on.
2. Look up:
The next step is to lift your eyes to the Lord and place your hope in Him. Remember, discouragement comes to everybody at one time or another, but it should not be permanent.
3. Look back:
Despair has a way of making you forget all the good things God has done over the years. Recalling His past care and provision helps to overpower discouragement.
4. Look ahead:
Knowing that the Lord’s plans are good, you can look forward to what He is going to do in the future. His lovingkindness will support you by day and bring comfort by night.
To overcome discouragement, fixing your focus on the Lord is key. His Word promises that He walks with you through the valley (Psalm 23:4). Remember, even if you feel disheartened, you are never alone.
________________
~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/find-help-in-god-s-presence
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The Word
“This Book of Instruction [Bible] must not depart from your mouth; you are to meditate on it day and night so that you may carefully observe everything written in it. For then you will prosper and succeed in whatever you do.” ~ Joshua 1:8
“How happy are those who do not follow [walk in] the advice of the wicked or take [stand in] the path of sinners or join a group [sit in the seat] of mockers [active opposers of God’s Word]! Instead, their delight is in the Lord’s instruction, and they meditate on it day and night.” ~ Psalm 1:1-2
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Acquiring Discernment
~ When we view God's insight as a precious treasure, He reveals all we need to know.
Scripture Reading: Proverbs 2:1-11
Discernment is the ability to make sound judgments by perceiving what is not readily obvious, and it is critical to our life in God. For example, what should you do when you want to follow the Lord but have multiple choices that appear promising and good? How can you know if you’re hearing from God or simply listening to your own desires?
All we have to do is ask.
Proverbs 2 says, “If you cry out for insight, and raise your voice for understanding … then you will understand the fear of the Lord, and discover the knowledge of God. For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding” (vv. 3-6). Those verses are a clear promise from God that when we ask for insight, He will answer.
Though discernment doesn’t appear overnight, it does develop when we “search for her as for hidden treasures” (v. 4). So don’t wait until you’re facing a critical decision — start asking the Lord for His wisdom today. We need time to practice this kind of humility so we’ll learn to hear His voice among the noises of life. And in the meantime, rest assured that no matter what decision you make, God will be with you (Psalm 139:7-12).
_________________
~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/acquiring-discernment
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Godly Wisdom’s Worth
"My children, if you accept My Words and store up My Commands within you, listening closely [stretching out your ear] to wisdom and directing your heart to understanding; furthermore, if you call out to insight and lift your voice to understanding, if you seek it like silver and search for it like hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and discover the knowledge of God."
"For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding."
"He stores up success [resourcefulness] for the upright; He is a shield for those who live with integrity so that He may guard the paths of justice and protect the way of His loyal followers."
"Then you will understand righteousness, justice, and integrity — every good path. For wisdom will enter your mind, and knowledge will delight your heart. Discretion will watch over you, and understanding will guard you."
~ Proverbs 2:1-11
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How to Diminish Fear
"And now, Lord, look upon their threats and grant to Your servants to continue to speak Your Word with all boldness." ~ Acts 4:29
Peter and John had been ministering in some pretty amazing ways, teaching faithfully that Jesus had risen from the dead. Their teaching and the healing of a lame man drew some attention from the Jewish leaders, the elders, and the teachers of the law, so they were arrested and questioned.
If you read the first verses in Acts 4, you might think that these men had no fear! They bravely stood before the Council and answered the questions being asked of them. Acts 4:13 says, "The members of Council were amazed to see how bold Peter and John were and to learn that they were ordinary men of no education." However, later we see that they are released with a threat… under no condition were they able to teach in the name of Jesus. And although we see the brave reply from Peter and John, this strong warning instilled fear.
Our natural response to such threats might be to withdraw to avoid further consequences. However, Peter and John joined with other believers, and together prayed to God. They believed and trusted that God had them there for a reason, and they wanted to be obedient and continue the work God had set before them, so instead of asking God to miraculously make the opposition disappear, they asked for boldness to speak God's message. After they prayed, they were filled with the Holy Spirit and God granted them the boldness they prayed for.
We all have fears. There is no question about that. Often, we feel tempted to give in to these fears and let them stop us from doing what God has called us to do. Instead of giving into fear, we need to move forward trusting that God will provide what we need to boldly face the opposition we may encounter. Fear only grows when we let it stop us. However, our faith can grow greater than our fear when we obey God and continue taking steps forward. Our fears will diminish when we choose to embrace the boldness that we have in Christ and His Spirit that lives within us.
Suggested Prayer:
Dear God, there are times when fear seems to creep in and tries to discourage me. In those moments, I pray that You would give me the boldness to trust You and keep moving forward one step at a time. Thank You because regardless of what I face, You are always with me. Thank You for hearing and answering my prayer. In Jesus' name, amen.
________________
~ published by: The Daily Encourager
~ To receive The Daily Encourager FREE each weekday, click on the following link: http://go.netatlantic.com/read/all_forums/subscribe?name=thedailyencourager
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The Word
~ May we begin to turn to the Bible as our source of truth and direction first and foremost, rather than the world around us.
Scripture is one of the best indications we have of God’s intense longing to be known by His people. Every time we open up the Bible, we are looking at a miracle. God has revealed Himself to us in a way that is beyond dispute and beyond anything we could ask or imagine. Within the pages of Scripture, we see countless examples of God’s grace, love, presence, power, and unfathomable desire to have a restored relationship with us.
Oftentimes I take for granted how amazing it is to have the Bible. Because I grew up knowing Scripture to be God’s Word, it was always normal to me. Never before had I looked at it and realized what a powerful declaration it was of God’s desire to be known by me. And our Father didn’t just leave us with some words He spoke thousands of years ago, but gave us the Holy Spirit to help us understand and receive revelation from the Word.
In reading Scripture with the Holy Spirit, we can come to a real, transformative understanding of God’s heart. There is no refuting what God says in the Bible. There is no questioning whether the words we’re reading are true, important, or applicable.
Hebrews 4:12 says:
“For the Word of God is living and effective and sharper than any double-edged sword, penetrating as far as the separation of soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It is able to judge the ideas and thoughts of the heart.”
2 Timothy 3:16-17 says:
“All Scripture is inspired by God [breathed out by God] and is profitable for teaching, for rebuking, for correcting, for training in righteousness, so that the man, and woman, of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.”
And Romans 15:4 says:
“For whatever was written in the past was written for our instruction, so that we may have hope through endurance and through the encouragement from the Scriptures.”
If you’re longing to know the heart of God today, search His Word. God has preserved the Bible you have today for the purpose of revealing Himself. When you seek Him out through the reading of Scripture with the help of the Holy Spirit, you will find Him. May your time of prayer be filled with revelation and transformation as God’s heart is revealed.
Reading Scripture with the Holy Spirit brings God’s Word to life. The Bible isn’t just a book of rules. It’s not just a list of do’s and don’ts. It’s meant to be read with the understanding that its words were inspired by the One who dwells within you. May your heart be stirred to meditate on God’s Word that it might produce peace and joy in your life today.
_________________
~ published by: First 15
https://www.first15.org/devotionals/the-word-2023/
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Developing a Discerning Spirit
~ Discernment isn’t an innate quality — we must be trained by the Holy Spirit to distinguish between good and evil.
Scripture Reading: Hebrews 5:11-14
No matter how long a person has known Jesus, every faith journey ebbs and flows — with regard to doubt, intimacy, despair, joy, and more. Today’s passage discusses one such area of fluctuation: our ability to discern.
Comparing discernment to a baby’s diet, the writer of Hebrews observed that Jewish Christians at the time lacked spiritual wisdom and needed help consuming information. However, he went on to say that they could mature; they just needed to “have their senses trained to distinguish between good and evil” (v. 14). In other words, it’s possible to acquire keen discernment.
If you’re experiencing cloudy judgment right now, you can lean on two sources for guidance: God’s Word and God’s Spirit.
When we listen for His Spirit and read Scripture over time, we will gradually be trained to sense the difference between what is righteous and what isn’t. Even if you face a situation that isn’t addressed in the Bible, you have a Helper whose job is to guide you into all the truth (John 14:26; John 16:13).
God has given all believers access to His wisdom. So if you need guidance today, don’t hesitate to ask Him. He wants to help you.
__________________
~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/developing-a-discerning-spirit
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Playing God
"The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore." ~ Psalm 121:8
One of my church members told about the time she was trying to put her three-year-old son to bed for a nap.
When she was unsuccessful, she put him in her bed and laid down with him to encourage him to rest. She fell asleep, but he didn't. When she woke up, she saw him sitting on a chair at the end of the bed, and asked, "Luke, what are you doing?"
"I'm playing God," he replied.
"Playing God?" she asked.
"Yes," he said. "I'm watching over you while you sleep."
Children understand more than we do sometimes. God IS watching over us. Jesus gave that promise here in talking about the coming of the Holy Spirit. Not only will God watch over us but through the presence and reminder of the Holy Spirit, we will be reminded of what it means to "Love Jesus and keep His commands." And God will help us to create the environment of love, grace, faith and security that we need for our homes today.
Our challenge is to listen to the Holy Spirit and to trust Christ.
_______________
~ by Billy D. Strayhorn, "If You Love Me...."
To receive The Daily Encourager FREE each weekday, click on the following link: http://go.netatlantic.com/read/all_forums/subscribe?name=thedailyencourager
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Pledging Allegiance to the Wrong King
~ Don’t trade God’s best for lesser things.
Scripture Reading: John 19:13-16
The chief priests were the power brokers of their day. They had spiritual authority over the Israelites and influence with the Romans who controlled the land. When Jesus became a threat, they negotiated with Judas to have Roman soldiers arrest Him.
The governor, Pilate, treated Jesus just as he would have any other Jewish prisoner — having Him flogged and brought before the crowd for a “trial.” Twice, Pilate noted that he could find no grounds for charging Jesus (John 19:4; John 19:6). Still, he gave in to the priests’ demands and ordered his troops to crucify an obviously innocent man.
The priests underscored their disgust with Jesus by promising fidelity to Caesar. In that moment, they violated the first and second commandments in order to accomplish their goals (Exodus 20:3-7). These men forgot their calling and pledged allegiance to the wrong king. But it is important to remember this:
Rather than stand in judgment or declare them all irredeemable, Jesus headed to the cross to die for us — and for every person who condemned Him that day.
_________________
~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/pledging-allegiance-to-the-wrong-king
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Sermon on the Mount Part Seven: The Golden Rule
“Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you. This is the essence of all that is taught in the Law and the Prophets [Old Testament]." ~ Matthew 7:12
As Jesus begins to close the Sermon on The Mount, He sums up His teaching (and indeed “all the Law and The Prophets”) by setting forth what has come to be known as The Golden Rule.
Jesus assumes (rightly, of course) everyone wants to be treated with fairness, kindness, and mercy. Since righteousness is social harmony, it makes sense that the key to achieving it is to treat others as you desire to be treated. It is quite practical. Any group that expends all its resources on activities that create mutual benefit is going to be amazingly successful.
Jesus acknowledges the reality that we as humans pursue self-interest. That is presumed in His admonition. But also presumed is the reality that we often mis-perceive our own self-interest. Selfishness is self-destructive. Righteousness is about serving God in community, treating other humans as we would like to be treated, no matter their station.
Jesus concludes The Sermon on the Mount with a warning: don’t let false teachers distract you from God’s Kingdom. Follow the voice of the True Master. Seek His Kingdom. Pursue righteousness. Love and serve one another as co-laborers in Christ. And unite under Jesus who has spoken all of these things from His Own Authority. The false teachers are out to distract you, to feed the dangerously insatiable desires of the flesh. To be self-focused rather than others-focused.
The sum of the entire Bible is to treat others as we desire to be treated. Nested within this advice for living is the key to finding true success. Jesus called choosing this perspective a narrow gate, a path that is sometimes hard to see. It requires effort to see but guarantees success if followed. Not success we can demand, but success we can trust will be ours in due time.
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~ published by: Yellow Balloons
https://yellowballoons.net/devotional/part-seven-the-golden-rule/
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The Desire for Wonder
~ May we set our eyes on Him today by the power of the Holy Spirit, that our desire for wonder would be satisfied in relationship with our powerful and good God.
All of humanity is marked by an insatiable desire for wonder. We long for that which is unexplainable, intensely interesting, and unfathomable. But too often we settle for being temporarily fascinated by the things of the world. We look at concepts, cultures, and man-made creations and wonder in that which is meant to lead us to the One who is most wonderful — our heavenly Father.
You and I were created to marvel at the invisible nature and miraculous, supernatural works of God. We were created to know personally the God who created a universe so vast that its enormity is beyond measure. We’re created to experience communion with the God who created that which is so miniscule even our largest microscopes can’t capture it. We serve a God of wonder who alone can satisfy our insatiable desires for fascination.
But somewhere along the way we’ve chosen as a people to seek to wonder in the world over God. Romans 1:22-23 gives us insight into this destructive pursuit. Scripture says that early on in history humans “claiming to be wise… became fools, and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images resembling mortal man and birds and animals and creeping things.” Sin turned our gaze from God to His creation. We exchanged that which would wholly fascinate us for all of eternity for idols that were never designed to satisfy us at all. You can see it all around. In our culture, we idolize the created over the Creator. We lift up men and women instead of looking to the King of kings. We spend hours placing our hope in that which will never fully satisfy us. I can see it in myself. I jump from material thing to material thing, TV show to TV show, idea to idea, just looking for something to fascinate me. I’ll be fascinated with something for a week or month at most, and then I get bored. We buy and sell, get in and out of relationships, and ride emotional roller coasters, the whole time thinking, “This will be it; this is what I’m missing.”
God is calling us to a restored life where our need for wonder is satisfied in Him — producing peace, joy, fulfillment and purpose. He is calling us to stop seeking to marvel in that which is fleeting and to root ourselves in Him who is eternally satisfying. He is calling us to look at the world through a heavenly perspective to see that all of His creation would draw us to Himself.
Take some time in prayer to assess the ways in which you are seeking satisfaction for your desire for wonder. May you wholly marvel at your present, eternal, and loving heavenly Father today.
God designed the world in such a way that it would direct us back to Him. He wants you to be fascinated with your spouse, nature, ideas, creation, and even entertainment, as long as they direct you back to their true source! He wants to amaze you both through the works of His hands and in spending time with Him in meditation, worship, study of the Word, and simply listening as He speaks. He’s designed so many wonderful avenues with which to satisfy your desires — just don’t get caught up with the created things themselves. May God satisfy your desire for wonder today and every day. May He remain the source of your wonder and awe. The choice is up to you!
What will you spend your time and energy seeking today?
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~ published by: First 15
https://www.first15.org/devotionals/the-desire-for-wonder-2023/
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Sermon on the Mount Part Six: Side Streets
“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided for you.” ~ Matthew 6:33
It is difficult to fathom, but the divine Jesus was actually human. So, He can identify with the daily difficulties of His followers. He knows the disciples to whom He addresses the Sermon on the Mount have dally concerns – getting clothed, fed and housed. And He knows those things tend to create worry. Anxiety. Angst.
Jesus makes a provocative statement: “Seek God’s kingdom first, and all the other things you are concerned about will be added”.
Since Kingdom righteousness is a condition of the heart, it really begins with gaining a proper perspective. God made us and has our best interest at heart. He gave us the gift of making choices, the power and knowledge to make good decisions. He gave us a “narrow gate” through which we can find the fulfillment for which our heart yearns.
If we seek, we will find. If we knock, the door of opportunity will be opened to us. God is our good Father and He desires what is best for us. Keeping our focus on Him is the only way to righteousness.
One aspect seems apparent, if we seek Jesus’ kingdom and His righteousness as our first priority, it will most certainly affect our perspective on life’s daily necessities. Worry about what we do not have can be replaced with gratitude for what we do have.
Kingdom living is a more productive way of living. Living in integrity, serving others, setting aside addictions to pleasure and fame all naturally lead to having more capacity to meet our daily needs.
The Sermon on the Mount is much more than a spiritual guide. It is an imminently practical means to meet our deepest longings. But the route to get there will not be as broad, obvious, and instantly-gratifying as sin, which is why not many find it.
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~ published by: Yellow Balloons
https://yellowballoons.net/devotional/part-six-side-streets/
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Pass Down Your Example
~ Our actions really do speak louder than our words.
Scripture Reading: Matthew 5:14-16
Yesterday, we looked at one way you can pass your faith down to future generations. Today, let’s look at the second: by your lifestyle. You’ve no doubt heard the popular saying “Actions speak louder than words.” It’s important to tell others about Jesus, but we need to show His love through our actions, too.
Today’s verse is from the Sermon on the Mount. In it, Jesus is describing the righteousness that should characterize His followers, but it’s not what they’ve been taught by the religious leaders. In fact, most of the sermon focuses on actions — loving enemies, being merciful, and reconciling with those we’ve wronged. In verse 16, Jesus says, “Your light must shine before people in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.”
So, what can we pass down to our loved ones?
We can give them a day-by-day, year-by-year example of faith. We can teach them how to love Jesus and others well by imitating what they have seen in us. We can show them how to respond to a difficult situation in a Christlike way. And most importantly, we can come before our heavenly Father to intercede on their behalf.
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~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/pass-down-your-example
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Sermon on the Mount Part Five: Two Masters
“No one can be a slave of two masters, since either he will hate one and love the other, or be devoted to one and despise the other." ~ Matthew 6:24
Jesus has said much in "The Sermon on the Mount" about how His disciples can thrive in His Kingdom. He has taught it is in our best interest to pursue His righteousness and rewards rather than the empty promises of the world. He emphasizes that serving God is a heart condition – not just an external to-do list.
Here Jesus emphasizes the binary nature of our most fundamental choices: who we serve.
We like the idea of getting God’s reward. But we often think we can do that by making our devotional life merely one of the things we do. Perhaps we compartmentalize our Sunday self, keeping him a safe distance from our Friday night self. In doing this we seek to harvest the best of both worlds. Meanwhile we also maintain a Monday self; looking out for Number One in the dog-eat-dog business world.
Jesus is clear we can’t have it both ways. The rewards of Kingdom living are not available if we only pursue it during some segment of our lives. Kingdom living is being devoted to seeking God’s righteousness in a manner that is merciful toward others in all aspects of our lives.
We cannot truly serve God and material prosperity. If wealth is our master, we will be devoted to its insatiable demands. We will be consumed by the pursuit of the unachievable goal of “more”. We will seek and find the treasures of the world, which moth and rust will destroy.
If Jesus is our master, He must necessarily transform all other selves. Our work self must serve Him and His Kingdom. Our social self too. Each of these selves is a necessary participant in seeking His kingdom and His righteousness.
There may be two (or more) masters barking out commands, but the servant can only choose to follow one of them.
The heart will follow the one it loves. Which master will we choose?
The world promises everything and delivers nothing. Jesus asks us to lay our lives down for others and promises we gain all in return.
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~ published by: Yellow Balloons
https://yellowballoons.net/devotional/part-five-two-masters/
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Confidence
"But there is a God in heaven..." ~ Daniel 2:28
Day by day, the world is unraveling, becoming more frayed and afraid, more unstable and unsteady. We hear of wars and rumors of war, of false christs, of famines, of earthquakes, and of pestilences. Nations are rising against nations and kingdoms against kingdoms. Christians are attacked and slain at an accelerated pace.
But there is a God in heaven.
We needn’t pace the floor at night or run around in a frenzy. We shouldn’t faint, fear, or fret.
There is a God in heaven.
Daniel, too, lived in a churning world of change, empires rising and falling. His own nation, Israel, was wiped off the earth like a stain. But Daniel’s spirit remained steady because he understood the sovereign providence of the God of heaven. “Blessed be the name of God forever and ever,” he wrote, “for wisdom and might are His. And He changes the times and the seasons; He removes kings and raises up kings…. The Most High rules in the kingdom of men” (Daniel 2:20-21; 4:17).
In the Last Days perilous times will come, but there is a God in heaven - and if you know Christ as Savior, this God is your God. He rules and reigns, and our times are in His hands:
"The course of my life is in Your power; deliver me from the power of my enemies and from my persecutors." ~ Psalm 31:15
"Nothing is too big for God to handle, and nothing is too small to escape His attention." ~ Jerry Bridges
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~ by David Jeremiah, "Turning Point" (https://www.davidjeremiah.org)
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Sermon on the Mount Part Four: Heavenly Reward
"Don’t store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be." ~ Matthew 6:19-21
When it comes right down to it, humans are willing to do things for one reason: we perceive it to be in our self-interest. We will willingly (sometime eagerly) endure hardship or defer pleasure so that we can obtain good rewards. This is actually very Biblical. God created and designed us to seek and pursue our own benefit. Jesus acknowledges this reality in setting the standard by which we should love others “as we love ourselves.” However, our perspective about what is truly in our self-interest is often skewed.
Jesus clarifies exactly what is in our best interest – the rewards of His Kingdom. Jesus encourages His disciples to seek the best (truest) rewards. Treasures that will endure. Nothing on earth can match the rewards of our Father in Heaven.
In His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus presents this as a binary choice. We can either seek a reward from our Father who is in heaven or we can seek reward in the world’s systems and the approval of man. We can’t do both, we must pick one or the other. We can’t serve God and money [power, prestige, glory, self, etc.].
Matthew 6 talks about how we give, how we pray, and how we fast. Just three examples of the way we encounter this choice: do we fast, pray, or give of our time/resources to impress others and receive the reward of their approval, or, to seek God and trust His reward in His time?
Our hearts always follow where we invest our treasure. The extent to which our finances are investing in family, neighbors, and the various communities in which we reside are a clue to where our heart is focused.
If we rely upon earthly riches, we are certain to not only lose our treasure, we also fill our heart with the things of a world that will one day be no more. By choosing the treasures of heaven, we elect to pursue real and lasting reward. That is how our true self-interest is best served.
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~ published by: Yellow Balloons
https://yellowballoons.net/devotional/part-four-heavenly-reward/
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Pass Down Your Principles
~ The best gifts are eternal, and they impact generations.
Scripture Reading: Deuteronomy 6:1-7
What do you want to leave your loved ones? Maybe it’s money or family heirlooms, like a favorite necklace or beloved photo. But if you’ve trusted Christ as Savior, you have something far more valuable. Material things can be spent or lost, but your faith — what you believe about Jesus Christ — is precious and eternal.
Choosing to follow Jesus is a personal decision, one you can’t make for anyone else. But through your words and actions, you can lovingly point others to the heavenly Father. Over the next few days, we’re going to look at three ways you can share your faith.
The first way is to share what you yourself have learned and practiced. For example, you can tell others that ...
• God will give us direction. His Word is “a lamp to our feet and a light to our path” (Psalm 119:105).
• God will provide for our needs, drawing from His unending riches (Philippians 4:19).
• God will enable and strengthen us, whatever we go through. He’s a friend who sticks closer than a brother (Proverbs 18:24).
• God owns everything, and we’re His trusted stewards.
What godly principles are you passing on to others? Is there anything you would add to the above list?
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~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/pass-down-your-principles
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Breaking Down Faith Barriers
~ As you seek to follow God, He will help you overcome each obstacle you encounter.
Scripture Reading: Exodus 4:1-17
Yesterday, we discussed how Moses doubted God’s calling to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. But the Lord graciously provided reassurance through wondrous signs and promised to help His servant accomplish everything, no matter how impossible it might seem.
Moses wasn’t eloquent, and his inability to speak well left him feeling inadequate. So God reassured him by saying, “I Myself will be with your mouth, and instruct you in what you are to say”. Remember, the Lord looks at the heart, not human qualifications (1 Samual 16:7), which is why the people He chooses to carry out His plan often seem unlikely. What’s more, God can also overcome all our inadequacies. That’s what He did by calling Moses’ brother Aaron to go along and proclaim the God-given message.
The Lord had an answer for each one of Moses’ concerns, and He will likewise help us overcome obstacles when we follow Him. As we step out in obedience, our trust in God grows, and we are able to leave the outcome — whatever it may be — to Him. Then, as the faith barriers in our life are demolished, we’ll be able to see the evidence of God’s presence and power. Not only that, but we will also experience the joy of submitting to His perfect will.
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~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/breaking-down-faith-barriers
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Tilling the Soil of the Heart: Prayer
~ May God do a mighty work in us today as we discover the power of prayer.
God makes an amazing promise to us in Philippians 4:6-7. Scripture says:
“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.”
How incredible! If we will make our requests known to God in prayer, giving our burdens and anxieties over to Him, then He will swap those burdens for a guarding peace that surpasses all understanding.
• How much do you need His peace today?
• What areas of your life feel burdened?
• What do you feel anxious about?
God has an endless reservoir of peace that’s available to you when you place your trust in Him through prayer. As we open our hearts to God in prayer, the Spirit produces the fruit of peace. When you lay your burdens at God’s feet, trusting that He will take care of you as He promised, peace overflows as a fruit of the Spirit’s work in your life. That’s the assurance of your Father and the power of prayer.
For most of us, something like trusting God and handing over all our burdens is much easier said than done.
• How can you pray effectively?
• How can you have communication with God?
E.M. Bounds said, “The goal of prayer is the ear of God, a goal that can only be reached by patient and continued and continuous waiting upon Him, pouring out our heart to Him and permitting Him to speak to us. Only by so doing can we expect to know Him, and as we come to know Him better, we shall spend more time in His presence and find that presence a constant and ever-increasing delight.”
Effective prayer is a process, but it is a process completely worthy of your efforts. Corrie ten Boom said, “Don’t pray when you feel like it. Have an appointment with the Lord and keep it. A man is powerful on his knees.” Make a daily time to set aside for prayer. Fight to keep it at all costs. Connecting to God through prayer, hearing His voice, and experiencing His presence will lead you to a satisfied life. The Christian life without prayer is no different than a relationship with a person without communication. While your God will never fail you as people do, abundant relationship with Him requires constant communication.
Prayer is more about making time and space to commune with God than it is about what you do or say. God can guide, speak, and give you His presence if you simply make space for Him to do so. Don’t let a feeling of insecurity, doubt, or lack of knowledge keep you from talking with God. He delights in the simplicity, vulnerability, and honesty of you just wanting to talk with Him.
Open your heart to God as you enter into a time of prayer. Make space to listen to the voice of your Helper, the Holy Spirit. And receive the wonder and peace that comes from casting your burdens on a loving Father who is waiting right now to spend time with you.
The Bible tells us to “rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). The more you practice prayer and see it work in your life to bring peace and change to your circumstances, the more prayer will become a natural overflow for you. A simple thought to God at a tough or important time or even a quick act of giving God thanks for the good things around you are all powerful prayers. Have a continual conversation with God and allow Him to transform lonely times into continuous communion with Him.
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~ published by: First 15
https://www.first15.org/devotionals/tilling-the-soil-of-the-heart-prayer-2023/
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Overcoming Faith Barriers
~ Don't let your doubts and insecurities rob you of the joy that comes from following God into your calling.
Scripture Reading: Exodus 3:10-17
Sometimes, God gives us seemingly impossible tasks. In those moments, it’s important not to offer excuses but to instead focus on the One who has called us. Why? Because looking for a way out creates a faith barrier. Take Moses in today’s passage, for example. He experienced a barrier due to ...
• Poor self-image:
When God gave the command to go to Pharaoh, Moses asked, “Who am I?” Perhaps he was thinking of his occupation as a lowly shepherd or the fact that he’d killed an Egyptian and had to flee decades before (Exodus 2:12). The Lord answered Moses’ objection with a wonderful promise: “I will be with you”.
• Ignorance:
To carry out God’s plan, we need to understand just how powerful God is. When Moses questioned his assignment, the Lord answered by revealing Himself as the great “I AM,” the One who had promised to rescue the Israelites.
Faith barriers can keep us from experiencing the joy of walking closely with our heavenly Father. So whenever we’re tempted to back away from our calling, it’s important to remember both who He is and who we are in Him.
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~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/overcoming-faith-barriers
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From the Pastor’s Heart – November 2023
~ Find out the benefits of having a thankful heart.
Feeling gratitude toward God is a big part of being a Christian — in fact, it probably comes naturally to you. Through faith we have access to His wonderful gifts, from salvation down to the simple kindnesses He shows every day. As His child, it’s almost impossible not to feel thankful!
And true to His giving nature, God blesses us when we bless Him.
In the following passage, Dr. Stanley shares some of the wonderful benefits we receive when we lift our hearts to God in gratitude.
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Have you ever met with a dear friend you had not seen for a while, and you picked up right where you left off? You somehow felt as close to them as you ever had, and you were both eager to catch up on all you’d missed. Something similar happens when we begin to praise and give thanks to God. Time spent in grateful worship refreshes and renews our fellowship with Him, bringing us joy.
As the psalmist says, “It is good to give thanks to the Lord and to sing praises to Your name, Most High” (Psalm 92:1).
The truth is that every effort to reach out to Him enriches our relationship with Him. While God’s blessings shouldn’t be our motivation for thanksgiving, every gift given, and action taken in His name, returns to us as a blessing.
There are several ways we benefit when we express our thankfulness to God:
1. We readjust our focus:
Praising and thanking the Lord reminds us that our attention should be focused on Him, not on ourselves. The world’s demands and stresses will pull us away from our first priority if we aren’t careful.
The psalmist Asaph understood this well. He was troubled by many things “until he entered the sanctuary of God” (Psalm 73:17). Then he remembered that “God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever” (v. 26). Thanksgiving returns God to His rightful place at the center of our lives.
2. We’re reminded of our need for Him:
Communicating gratitude to God reminds us of our absolute dependence on Him. We may think we are in control, and our actions may express the sense of independence we feel. But in reality, we rely on Him for every breath and heartbeat.
As James wrote, “Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow” (James 1:17). When we thank God for any one of His gifts, we’re reminded that He is the source of all we have — including life itself.
3. Our faith is strengthened:
Sharing our heartfelt thankfulness with God reinforces our faith as we recall the specific ways that He has answered our prayers, met our needs, and protected us.
Considering the many ways He has already worked in our lives builds our faith and trust in Him for the future. This was often the case for Israel. From one generation to the next, the leaders would call the people to remember and give thanks. “Put your trust in the Lord your God and you will endure,” King Jehoshaphat told the people of Judah in the face of war. “Give thanks to the Lord, for His faithfulness is everlasting” (2 Chronicles 20:20-21). When we thank and praise Him it’s amazing how our faith grows.
4. We are released from our anxieties:
Appreciating God eases any worries that have troubled our thinking, clouded our emotions, and even brought tension to our physical bodies. We don’t always recognize the tremendous toll stress takes on every aspect of our being. Praising the Father for all He is and does brings a relief from the pressures of life, and much-needed peace.
The psalmist recognized our need for a refuge from time to time. The release we experience when we “pour out” the burdens of our hearts to God (Psalm 62:8) contributes greatly to physical, mental, and spiritual health.
5. We’re not the only ones who benefit:
Those who see and hear us giving thanks to God are also blessed. When someone hears you praising Him, they’re listening to what He’s been doing in your life. It reminds them that our heavenly Father is the source of the good things in their lives, too. But perhaps most importantly, thanking God pleases God Himself.
Our gratitude blesses Him and He’s magnified and glorified by it. So let’s join our voices with the psalmist’s, and say, “In God we have boasted all day long, and we will give thanks to Your name forever” (Psalm 44:8).
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We’ve been blessed by these words from Dr. Stanley and hope you have as well — especially in this month of gratitude. As you celebrate and thank the Lord, it’s our prayer that praising Him will be a pleasure for you, one filled with hope and humble expectation. From all of us here at In Touch, happy Thanksgiving! Till next time, God bless you.
For His Glory,
Your Friends at In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/from-pastors-heart/november-2023
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