Provision to Know, Believe and Remember

 

Provision to Know, Believe and Remember

Exodus 16: ¹¹ And the Lord spoke to Moses, saying, ¹² “I have heard the complaints of the children of Israel. Speak to them, saying, ‘At twilight you shall eat meat, and in the morning you shall be filled with bread. And you shall know that I am the Lord your God.’ ”

 

¹³ So it was that quail came up at evening and covered the camp, and in the morning the dew lay all around the camp. ¹⁴ And when the layer of dew lifted, there, on the surface of the wilderness, was a small round substance, as fine as frost on the ground. ¹⁵ So when the children of Israel saw it, they said to one another, “What is it?” For they did not know what it was.

 

And Moses said to them, “This is the bread which the Lord has given you to eat. ¹⁶ This is the thing which the Lord has commanded: ‘Let every man gather it according to each one’s need, one omer for each person, according to the number of persons; let every man take for those who are in his tent.’ ”

 

============

 

A couple of weeks into the journey from Egypt, the children of Israel began complaining. GOD heard the complaints and told Moses what HE would do. HE wanted the people to know HE is GOD.

 

My Observations:

• Knowing that GOD is powerful and is loving and caring, seems to be important to HIM.
• Believing that GOD wants humans to succeed seems important to HIM.
• Remembering what GOD did for mankind seems important to HIM.

 

The children of Israel had a mindset that cruel slavery was better than freedom with GOD. “At least we had meat” was their sentiment. Their complaint was probably taken by GOD as an insult to HIS methods and intelligence. As if to say, “YOU obviously don’t know what YOU are doing.”

 

GHOD heard the complaint and did not say if HE liked it or not. HE simply provided and said that HE wanted to be known. Knowing GOD in this instance includes believing in HIS power and trusting that HE knws what HE is doing at all times. Their complaint placed them over GOD. They felt they knew what was best for them and could tell GOD to fix the deficit.

 

GOD made the deficit and needed the children of Israel to change their mindset the Egyptians forced on them. GOD takes free will seriously. HE allows us to complain, sin and walk away from HIS loving protection. To us, it’s strange, to GOD it’s love.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD remind Moses about what HE said about the children of Israel?
• Have you complained and GOD provided for you anyway?
• How will you know, believe and remember that GOD is GOD over your situation?

Another Song of Triumph – Unheard People Sing

Another Song of Triumph – Unheard People Sing

Exodus 15: ¹⁹ For the horses of Pharaoh went with his chariots and his horsemen into the sea, and the Lord brought back the waters of the sea upon them. But the children of Israel went on dry land in the midst of the sea.

The Song of Miriam

²⁰ Then Miriam the prophetess, the sister of Aaron, took the timbrel in her hand; and all the women went out after her with timbrels and with dances. ²¹ And Miriam answered them:

“Sing to the Lord,
For He has triumphed gloriously!
The horse and its rider
He has thrown into the sea!”

 

============

 

After Moses sang, Miriam got up and sang a short song.

 

My Observations:

• The women possibly were not singing but wanted to sing.
• Miriam may have noticed the women were not singing, so she got her tambourine out and sang a short song.
• Miriam gave the reason why everyone should sing, namely they were rescued by the LORD.

 

GOD used Miriam as a leader. She is called a prophetess. Very few women in the Bible were called this title, so it shows she had a special anointing by GOD as a leader. Miriam seemed to be gifted to help out where there was a gap in the execution of a plan.

 

Jochebed, Miriam’s mother, made an ark to save Moses, Miriam's’ brother. Miriam watched over Moses and made sure he stayed safe. Miriam jumped into action again by seeing the women and making them join in on the celebration of GOD’s triumph. Her song may seem simple, but it symbolizes a leader who sees those who are unheard. GOD was praised by everyone.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD remind Moses about Miriam’s song?
• Have you ever seen someone who wanted to join in, but were afraid to?
• Can you take a moment to help those who are unheard by guiding them in praise to the LORD?

Realized Mistake

Realized Mistake

Genesis 38: ²⁰ And Judah sent the young goat by the hand of his friend the Adullamite, to receive his pledge from the woman’s hand, but he did not find her. ²¹ Then he asked the men of that place, saying, “Where is the harlot who was openly by the roadside?”

And they said, “There was no harlot in this place.”

²² So he returned to Judah and said, “I cannot find her. Also, the men of the place said there was no harlot in this place.”

²³ Then Judah said, “Let her take them for herself, lest we be shamed; for I sent this young goat and you have not found her.”

²⁴ And it came to pass, about three months after, that Judah was told, saying, “Tamar your daughter-in-law has played the harlot; furthermore she is with child by harlotry.”

So Judah said, “Bring her out and let her be burned!”

²⁵ When she was brought out, she sent to her father-in-law, saying, “By the man to whom these belong, I am with child.” And she said, “Please determine whose these are—the signet and cord, and staff.”

²⁶ So Judah acknowledged them and said, “She has been more righteous than I, because I did not give her to Shelah my son.” And he never knew her again.

 

============

 

Judah did not know he slept with his daughter-in-law. He thought she was a harlot. Instead of looking for her to pay her, he sent the payment by his friend Hirah, who could not find the harlot. After three months, Tamar was discovered to be pregnant. Judah’s friends accused her of being a harlot.  But Tamar exposed Judah as being the father.

 

My Observations:

• Judah seemed ashamed that he slept with a harlot, otherwise known as a prostitute.
• Judah seemed to want to get the payment over with so his deed could be swept under the rug.
• Judah wanted to burn Tamar for acting like a prostitute, but realized it was him who got her pregnant and it was because he never gave his son to her.

 

When GOD told Abraham that he would be the father of many nations, Abraham probably thought his descendants would love the LORD as much as he did. He probably thought his family would be honorable and that GOD would pour out HIS blessings on a clean family who obeyed well. But that was not the case.

 

JESUS came from a messy family who made mistakes like you and me. Judah became the father of the lineage of JESUS through his daughter-in-law Tamar. Deceit, lust, false accusation and many other unexpected things happened, yet GOD chose this family. Judah accepted responsibility and never slept with Tamar again.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about Judah’s shameful approach?
• What are your expectations of GOD and are they based on misinformation about HIS grace?
• Will you realize how much grace GOD is showing you today?

Wash, Eat and Go

 

Wash, Eat and Go

Revelation 22: ¹⁴ Happy are those who wash their robes clean and so have the right to eat the fruit from the tree of life and to go through the gates into the city. ¹⁵ But outside the city are the perverts and those who practice magic, the immoral and the murderers, those who worship idols and those who are liars both in words and deeds.

 

============

 

After flying so many miles, I was invited to become a member of the airline’s lounge club. This was an “exclusive” lounge that had snacks and beverages, serving as an oasis in the middle of the hustle and bustle.

 

I felt special.

I thought to myself “This is cool!”

I did not have anything to worry about concerning my flight.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, heard JESUS speak to him. JESUS explained how blessed the people are who wash their robes clean. This may be a reference to becoming sin-free through the belief in the death, burial and resurrection of JESUS. Because of this belief, followers became family members of the almighty GOD.

 

My Observations:

Belief in JESUS “washes” my sins clean.

Accepting JESUS as my Savior gives me the privilege of “eating” from the tree of life eternally.

Freedom to “go through the gates” will be my reward because of my belief in JESUS.

 

Being excluded is my choice. I mean, GOD made salvation extremely easy for all humans. JESUS volunteered to become a human, die for your and my sins and was raised from the dead. I did not have to do anything, yet I received a gift of eternal life. Unfortunately, there will be those who reject this gift.

 

All humans sin. There is no one who is righteous. BUT JESUS redeemed those who believe in HIS act of love. Those who reject HIS love remain in their sin. Every sin is remembered and eternally accounted for, to those who reject the LORD. I gladly surrender my life to JESUS, who was, is, and is to come.

 

Challenge:

What rights are told to the writer?

What rights are withheld and who are they withheld from?

Will you surrender your life of fighting JESUS to be placed in HIS loving family today?

Super Powers

Super Powers

Revelation 17: ⁹ “This calls for wisdom and understanding. The seven heads are seven hills, on which the woman sits. They are also seven kings: ¹⁰ five of them have fallen, one still rules, and the other one has not yet come; when he comes, he must rule only a little while. ¹¹ And the beast that was once alive, but lives no longer, is itself an eighth king who is one of the seven and is going off to be destroyed.

 

¹² “The ten horns you saw are ten kings who have not yet begun to rule, but who will be given authority to rule as kings for one hour with the beast. ¹³ These ten all have the same purpose, and they give their power and authority to the beast. ¹⁴ They will fight against the Lamb; but the Lamb, together with his called, chosen, and faithful followers, will defeat them, because he is Lord of lords and King of kings.”

 

============

 

Wanting to be a superhero, I grabbed a bath towel and tied it around my neck. The other kids did the same. We held our arms out in front of us and now, we were flying! We jumped, skipped, ran and made ray gun noises that had to be explained. “I just shot you with my ray powers!”

 

• We wanted to be superheroes.
• Even though there were a lot of us, our army was not strong.
• When each household said it was time to come in, we had to lay down our pretense and go inside.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, was given the meaning of the seven heads and ten horns of the beast. During this time, people will think they are in power and will gather together to form a futile fight against JESUS.

 

My Observations:

• I have no power, BUT JESUS, who has all authority, is my strength.
• I have no authority, BUT JESUS, who has been place above everything, shares HIS authority with me.
• I have no way to change situations, BUT JESUS, hears my cry and understands everything I can and will go through, and HE empathizes with me to provide the HOLY SPIRIT to guide me.

 

There is no power greater than JESUS. I mean, I cannot go anywhere the get away from HIS power, nor can I usurp HIS authority. Not height, depth or breadth can keep me away from HIS love. HE is worthy of all honor, praise and glory.

 

Humans rise to power temporarily, but if they do not bow to JESUS their efforts are futile. Their attempts to enslave or to take over the world will be met with the power and authority of JESUS who is LORD of lords and KING of kings! I place my faith in HIM.

 

Challenge

• How did the angel get the writer’s attention?
• Have you ever wanted to be in power?
• Will you surrender your power to JESUS so HE will guide you through the HOLY SPIRIT to a place of victory today?

Affirmed

Affirmed

Jude 1: ¹² With their shameless carousing they are like dirty spots in your fellowship meals. They take care only of themselves. They are like clouds carried along by the wind, but bringing no rain. They are like trees that bear no fruit, even in autumn, trees that have been pulled up by the roots and are completely dead. ¹³ They are like wild waves of the sea, with their shameful deeds showing up like foam. They are like wandering stars, for whom God has reserved a place forever in the deepest darkness.

 

============

 

“What about me?” I cried out to the LORD. I saw inexperienced people seem to excel, while I was sitting at my desk, waiting to be elevated. I asked mentors what I should do. “Promote yourself” they said. Something inside me took pause to the advice. A leader chose me and said “I am glad you are not like the others by doing self-promotion.”

 

• I was actually going to start self- promoting.
• I was tired of waiting to be noticed.
• I wanted a crowd to affirm “my” talents.

 

Jude continues his warning. He originally was going to write about salvation, but the HOLY SPIRIT led him to discuss “godless people” who slipped in, pretending to know JESUS as the Savior, but had hidden agendas to acquire fame. Jude compares these people to “dirty spots”, Clouds with no rain, trees that produce no fruit and waves showing shameful deeds.

 

My Observations:

• GOD sees when I cry out to HIM to make “me” famous instead of making HIM known.
• GOD wants me to turn to HIM and point to HIS SON so I can be used by HIM to bear fruit.
• GOD knows I need to focus on HIM versus focusing on fame so the world’s waves won’t pull me in.

 

Seeking affirmation can cause me problems. I mean, when I feel I need to be more famous, or “liked” by a crowd, I seek being noticed at every turn. This causes me to think only of myself and barely mention GOD. BUT HE has another way.

 

GOD wants my life to bear HIS fruit. My life is HIS and HE can decide how and when HE wants to use the gifts HE gave me. HE wants me ready and willing to be used by HIM, regardless of my fame. HE loves you and me and never leaves when times are tough. I am glad GOD helps us point people to HIM.

 

Challenge

• What comparisons from the writer sticks out the most to you?
• Have you ever gotten mad at GOD for making someone else famous?
• Will you seek to make JESUS famous to those who are around you and be affirmed that HE loves you just the way you are today?

In Spite Of

 

In Spite Of

Hebrews 11: ²⁰ It was faith that made Isaac promise blessings for the future to Jacob and Esau.

 

============

 

“I don’t know how to do this” was my statement to a person who was building a team. “Don’t worry about that” was his reply to my concern. I had not lead a team as large as he was going to place me over and I was concerned that I could fail. “Don’t worry” was his reply.

 

• I did not know I was being watched over.
• I did not know that it was not about “my” performance rather that I was part of something bigger.
• I did not know that it was not about “my” abilities, rather it was much greater than me.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, gave another example of faith that was a continuation of Abraham’s blessing. He briefly mentioned Isaac, possibly due to the fact that people referred to him in a revered way. Abraham, Isaac and Jacob were an imperfect human shadow of the trinity of GOD. They were used in spite of their imperfections.

 

My Observations:

• Isaac was part of the promise made to Abraham, so even if he made mistakes, he was blessed.
• GOD promised Abraham that his descendants would be blessed and as numerous as sand or stars.
• GOD sees my sins and still uses me, in spite of my sins.

 

Imperfect people doing imperfect things to birth perfection seems impossible. I mean, lies, deception and hurt were the makeup of the family of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. The whole story seemed quite messed up. Yet GOD blessed them in spite of them. HIS blessings could not be stopped by their sins.

 

GOD saw what they would do and say and had a purpose for humanity, namely the birth of JESUS. HE somehow wants to use imperfect people to tell HIS perfect story of redemption. I am glad I do not have to be perfect and that GOD can use me in spite of my sins.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer use this example?
• Have you ever thought you needed to be perfect or sinless or that GOD thinks less of you?
• Will you stop focusing on yourself and focus on GOD’s love so HE can show you HIS power through you today?

Good Enough

 

Good Enough

Hebrews 10: ⁵ For this reason, when Christ was about to come into the world, he said to God:

“You do not want sacrifices and offerings,
    but you have prepared a body for me.
⁶ You are not pleased with animals burned whole on the altar
    or with sacrifices to take away sins.
⁷ Then I said, ‘Here I am,
    to do your will, O God,
    just as it is written of me in the book of the Law.’”

 

============

 

Not understanding the assignment, I went to the teacher and asked for help. The homework I turned in had many marked up mistakes. He showed me what I did wrong and allowed me to turn in my revised work. I got a good grade on that assignment.

 

• My revised work passed the test.
• My revised work met the criteria.
• My corrections made the assignment perfect.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, had a revelation from GOD and was given a conversation that was vital to the Law. JESUS knew that animal sacrifices would never cleanse the sin of mankind. A perfect sacrifice was needed and HE volunteered.

 

My Observations

• JESUS knew the passing criteria and became the perfect sacrifice.
• JESUS knew what it would take to fulfill the Law and did so just for me.
• JESUS became the perfect sacrifice which fulfilled the entire Law and now I have freedom.

 

No animal or actions were good enough to meet GOD’s criteria of perfection. Only JESUS was perfect. GOD had to lose HIS SON for you and me to be saved. JESUS died and was raised from the dead, now HE holds the choice to forgive.

 

My efforts of fasting, prayer and abstaining from sin are not good enough. The only way I can ever be good is to recognize the one who was perfect, namely JESUS. After that, all things fall into place.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer use this example?
• Have you ever thought your efforts were good enough to please GOD?
• Will you look at what JESUS did as perfection so you will not try to measure up and so you can be comfortable, knowing HE loves you to the maximum today?

Something Precious

Something Precious

Hebrews 9: ¹⁶ In the case of a will it is necessary to prove that the person who made it has died, ¹⁷ for a will means nothing while the person who made it is alive; it goes into effect only after his death. ¹⁸ That is why even the first covenant went into effect only with the use of blood. ¹⁹ First, Moses proclaimed to the people all the commandments as set forth in the Law. Then he took the blood of bulls and goats, mixed it with water, and sprinkled it on the book of the Law and all the people, using a sprig of hyssop and some red wool. ²⁰ He said, “This is the blood which seals the covenant that God has commanded you to obey.” ²¹ In the same way Moses also sprinkled the blood on the Sacred Tent and over all the things used in worship. ²² Indeed, according to the Law almost everything is purified by blood, and sins are forgiven only if blood is poured out.

 

============

 

After wearing some clothes for a while, I found them dated and out of style. It was easy for me to donate the dated clothes because I did not “want” to wear them anyway. But when I ran out of money, each garment became more and more precious.

 

• I gave when it was easy to give.
• I did not feel that anything was precious when I had plenty.
• I understood, on a small scale, when something was precious and highly valued.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, explains a very complicated subject, namely death. He begins by explaining that a will does not go into effect until a person dies. He then explained that Moses placed extreme importance on bloodshed as a symbol of redemption.

 

My Observations:

• JESUS was the most precious being to GOD, yet HE accepted HIS SON’s request to die for the world.
• A tremendous loss had to happen to gain all humans back.
• My belief in what JESUS did is precious to GOD.

 

My life is precious to GOD. I mean, JESUS want through all the trouble of dying just for me. HE was raised from the dead and placed over everything, just because HE was obedient to HIS own word. JESUS was precious and HIS bloodshed paid for the atonement of my sins.

 

Satan, who wants to be GOD, tried to stop JESUS from choosing to die for humanity. He tempted HIM and tried to scare HIM on numerous occasions. JESUS was relentless. I am glad JESUS followed through with HIS own sacrifice. I owe HIM everything!

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer use the sacrificial ceremonies in the Law as the example?
• What would happen if you lost what is precious to you?
• Will you try to understand GOD, knowing HE lost something extremely precious and can empathize with you enough to provide eternal life through JESUS, who was raised from the dead?

Just When We Need It

Just When We Need It

Hebrews 4: ¹⁴ Let us, then, hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we have a great High Priest who has gone into the very presence of God—Jesus, the Son of God. ¹⁵ Our High Priest is not one who cannot feel sympathy for our weaknesses. On the contrary, we have a High Priest who was tempted in every way that we are, but did not sin. ¹⁶ Let us have confidence, then, and approach God's throne, where there is grace. There we will receive mercy and find grace to help us just when we need it.

 

============

 

Having come out of the trial, I felt I needed a vacation from being “good.” I let down my guards and decided I could sin a little here and a little there. Soon I was back to old habits, never once praying to, nor communicating with GOD. But then troubles hit again.

 

• I wondered if GOD was punishing me for something I did.
• I also wondered if HE would forgive me “this” time.
• I also wondered if GOD would reach a limit on HIS forgiveness and just get tired of me coming to HIM with the same request.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, explains that JESUS is different than the human high priests. They, being human, have fallen into sin. JESUS was tempted in every way and never sinned. He explains that we can hold onto our faith firmly because JESUS provides mercy and grace.

 

My Observations

• There is no sin too great that GOD will not forgive.
• I can approach GOD with all my sins and be forgiven.
• JESUS knows what I am going through and sympathizes with me because of what HE went through.

 

GOD is the ultimate forgiver versus the ultimate punisher. I mean, sometimes I get scared of GOD, especially when I sin. I think I may not get “my” way. Consequently, I also think I can manipulate GOD into giving me “my” way by temporarily being good. HE knows that too.

 

GOD sees me different than I see myself. HE loves me and is concerned about me. HE grants me mercy when I should receive the ultimate punishment. HE pours out grace when I do not deserve it and HE seems to do it just when I need it. I thank GOD for HIS grace and mercy. It is always right on time!

 

Challenge

• How does the writer portray JESUS?
• Have you ever been in a situation where no one sympathized with you?
• Have you ever been blamed by “everyone” around you?
• Will you give your life to JESUS and learn about truly being forgiven so you can experience HIS everlasting grace and mercy today?

Opposition

Opposition

2 Timothy 3: ⁶ Some of them go into people's houses and gain control over weak women who are burdened by the guilt of their sins and driven by all kinds of desires, ⁷ women who are always trying to learn but who can never come to know the truth. ⁸ As Jannes and Jambres were opposed to Moses, so also these people are opposed to the truth—people whose minds do not function and who are failures in the faith. ⁹ But they will not get very far, because everyone will see how stupid they are. That is just what happened to Jannes and Jambres.

 

============

 

Trying to live a life that followed JESUS was hard. I had built a reputation of being the “fun” person. I used to hold parties and spread “fun” wherever I went. But when I tried to turn my life over to the LORD, I went back to the people who loved me for my party prowess and was met with opposition.

 

• I was no longer part of the in crowd I longed to be part of.
• I no longer fit in the world I had put together for myself.
• I did not expect how difficult it would be to change my life for CHRIST.

 

Paul continues to warn Timothy about people who oppose the Gospel and prey on those who may have had difficult lives. He gives a specific spiritual example of Jannes and Jambres, magicians who tried to oppose Moses. While their attempt seem to work, GOD intervened and ultimately they failed.

 

My Observations

• Opposition to the LORD form other people is not something I should be worried about.
• If someone chooses to oppose the LORD for his or her own purpose, GOD wants me to remain near to HIM and know their opposition is noted by HIM.
• Opposers of the LORD will get somewhere, but not very far and will be exposed by GOD.

 

Siding with the LORD brings opposition. I mean, when I become a follower of CHRIST, the enemy throws all kinds of opposition at me that will make me question my faith, the company I keep and my direction. BUT GOD wants me to know HE has the upper hand.

 

Those who oppose GOD will be exposed and I do not need to see it happen. HIS plan for me is solid and supernatural. Those who slither and slide around like snakes, looking for complex ways to appear like the truth will ultimately “fail in the faith.” I am grateful GOD protects me from those who oppose HIM.

 

Challenge

• What opposition do you think the writer is speaking about?
• Have you ever tried to live for the LORD and was met with opposition?
• Will you let go of your worry about those who oppose the LORD and know HE can handle any opposition because HE is all powerful and HIS plan for you will not fail?

Shared Power

Shared Power

2 Corinthians 13: This is now the third time that I am coming to visit you. “Any accusation must be upheld by the evidence of two or more witnesses”—as the scripture says. ² I want to tell those of you who have sinned in the past, and all the others; I said it before during my second visit to you, but I will say it again now that I am away: the next time I come nobody will escape punishment. ³ You will have all the proof you want that Christ speaks through me. When he deals with you, he is not weak; instead, he shows his power among you. ⁴ For even though it was in weakness that he was put to death on the cross, it is by God's power that he lives. In union with him we also are weak; but in our relations with you we shall share God's power in his life.

 

============

 

“Oooo, I’m telling!” were the words of dread from another kid’s mouth. My teasing had turned into vicious put downs, causing him to go and tell on me. Now I was in trouble!

 

• I dreaded having to face consequence.
• I only wanted to be forgiven without needing to endure any penalties.
• I was mad at being told on.

 

Paul clarifies that he doesn’t want twisted stories. Specific sin needed to have two or more witnesses. The sin needed to be clear and not manufactured by one and planted into others. Paul was given the power to cast out demons and do other miraculous things. He shared in the power of JESUS and wanted to be careful when dealing with blatant sin.

 

My Observations

• GOD gave HIS SON to us so we can share in the power that raised HIM from the dead.
• GOD allowed me to be saved and forgiven of all my sins.
• GOD allows other people to bring consequence on me when I blatantly sin against him or her.

 

Forgiveness is wonderful. I mean, all my sins are forgiven?! Wow! BUT GOD doesn’t like sin, not even the smallest. One bite of a piece of fruit took humanity down. That sin doesn’t compare to all the ones I ever committed.

 

GOD does forgive, and HE protects people. HE sees when I do wrong to others and allows consequence to fall on me. I do not like consequence but I understand when GOD wants me corrected. HE also give me the power to restore those who repent. I am glad HE corrects and restores me.

 

Challenge

• Do you feel the writer’s passion?
• What would you do in his situation?
• Do you feel good when someone gets punished?
• Will you seek restoration instead of punishment and allow GOD to own any vengeance today?

Powerful Weapons

Powerful Weapons

2 Corinthians 10: I, Paul, make a personal appeal to you—I who am said to be meek and mild when I am with you, but harsh with you when I am away. By the gentleness and kindness of Christ ² I beg you not to force me to be harsh when I come; for I am sure I can deal harshly with those who say that we act from worldly motives. ³ It is true that we live in the world, but we do not fight from worldly motives. ⁴ The weapons we use in our fight are not the world's weapons but God's powerful weapons, which we use to destroy strongholds. We destroy false arguments; ⁵ we pull down every proud obstacle that is raised against the knowledge of God; we take every thought captive and make it obey Christ. ⁶ And after you have proved your complete loyalty, we will be ready to punish any act of disloyalty.

 

============

 

Feeling worried about the impending news, we gathered in a conference room and spoke only about the potential layoffs. No work was being done. I felt quite helpless. One person walked in the room with a smile that was genuine.

 

At first we thought she was coming in to say she was told she had a job, or perhaps she was relieved to be let go. She said, “GOD has this.” We all felt better.

 

• I looked to the world for answers.
• I tried to mimic people who the world said was “successful.”
• I valued bottom line figures over things I thought were weak.

 

Paul spoke about his approach to spreading the Gospel of JESUS. Some may have said his approach was weak because did not use manipulative words to gain trust in groups as the world would do. He could have replied harshly, but he recognized using GOD’s weapons would be more important.

 

My Observations

• Strongholds will be torn down when I use GOD’s weapons.
• False arguments will eventually reveal the truth when I use GOD’s weapons.
• Proud obstacles that deter people from knowing CHRIST will be overcome when I use GOD’s weapons.

 

You mean to tell me I have to fight with love, joy, peace, patience, goodness, gentleness, kindness, faithfulness and self-control? These sound weak! I mean, what about using the world’s tactics that seem to work for famous people? GOD’s weapons are more powerful than the rich and powerful.

 

HE wants me to be genuine with my belief in HIM to solve every problem that may arise. I sometimes want to jump in with “my” plan and HE tells me to “be patient” because HE is building the faithful side in me. GOD knows my circumstances and provides abundantly. I am glad HIS weapons are at work when I cannot see them.

 

Challenge

• What do you notice about the writer’s view on worldly motives and weapons?
• Are you trying to fight strongholds, false arguments and proud obstacles using worldly tactics and feel you are losing?
• Will you trade in the world’s weapons for more powerful weapons that only come from GOD today?

Tell It With Power

Tell It With Power

1 Corinthians 1: ¹⁴ I thank God that I did not baptize any of you except Crispus and Gaius. ¹⁵ No one can say, then, that you were baptized as my disciples. (¹⁶ Oh yes, I also baptized Stephanas and his family; but I can't remember whether I baptized anyone else.) ¹⁷ Christ did not send me to baptize. He sent me to tell the Good News, and to tell it without using the language of human wisdom, in order to make sure that Christ's death on the cross is not robbed of its power.

 

============

 

An argument over GOD’s existence arose and I felt “prepared.” But when I jumped into the argument, it raised questions that I had no answers. Now I was just trying to get the guy to stop arguing. The argument grew to many people. I have no idea how it ended.

 

• At one time I thought that “I” needed to argue for GOD.
• At one time I thought that “I” was responsible for saving people.
• At one time I thought that “I” had the “power” to change anyone’s mind about their disbelief in JESUS.

 

Paul is thankful he did not seek to baptize a lot of people to build a following. He wasn’t against baptism rather he did not like the results of fame. He knew that humans crave to use their own wisdom to explain the supernatural power of CHRIST’s death and resurrection and a following would further complicate matters.

 

• GOD wants me to rely on HIS power to draw people to HIMSELF.
• GOD wants me to accept the responsibility of being sent to tell the Good News and that is it.
• GOD wants me to have faith in the HOLY SPIRIT who gives the same power to me that raised CHRIST from the dead.

 

It is not me, but the HOLY SPIRIT who lives in me. I mean, I have no wisdom, knowledge or understanding that can explain who and what the HOLY SPIRIT is. I can only say the HE speaks to me daily and I crave to feed HIM regularly.

 

It is the power of JESUS’ death burial and resurrection that I have the honor to speak about. Belief in HIS resurrection is what saved me for eternity. I am glad my wisdom does not rob JESUS of the credit HE is due.

 

• Are you trying hard to use your persuasion to get someone to believe?
• Do you think that if you follow a person or if people follow you, then they will have a chance for salvation?
• Will you relook at human wisdom and power and give JESUS more credit for HIS sacrificial death on the cross to save you and the people you are worried about today?

Out of Sight Out of Mind

 

Out of Sight Out of Mind

Romans 6: ²⁰ When you were slaves to sin, you were free from the obligation to do right. ²¹ And what was the result? You are now ashamed of the things you used to do, things that end in eternal doom. ²² But now you are free from the power of sin and have become slaves of God. Now you do those things that lead to holiness and result in eternal life. ²³ For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.

 

============

 

Dirty underwear, toys and stuff I found outside were shoved under my bed. The directive was to “clean my room.” I cleaned the room in record time. I knocked everything onto the floor, pushed it under the bed and sat down with a grin. As long as no one looked under the bed, I would never be suspected of being a slob.

 

• Many times I have hidden things I was ashamed of.
• Many times I shoved what I was ashamed of, into hidden places.
• Many times I hid the garbage to have the appearance of looking clean.

 

Paul explains that we are no longer slaves to sin. He tries to reason with everyone about the temporary nature of sin. It brings on pleasure for a moment, but causes people to do things that remain hidden. If the thing was so “good” then why not say it to everyone? Paul then provides the right way, namely to do those things that lead to holiness.

 

• GOD wants me to step out of the dark, hidden places and show HIS light.
• GOD wants me to do things that I am not ashamed of.
• GOD wants me to be bold enough to accept HIS free gift of love which is eternal life through CHRIST JESUS our LORD.

 

Shame causes me to seek more shame. I may even find a group of people who accept the shameful things I do so I can feel “good” about myself. BUT GOD wants something different.

 

Instead of seeking destruction, covering it up and pretending everything is fine, GOD wants me to seek HIS path which leads to HIS holiness and HIS eternal life. Giving up sin is sometimes hard, especially when I practice hiding it. BUT GOD helps me by providing courage to express my sin, little by little. I am grateful for JESUS who freed me from my path to death.

 

• What are you shoving under your bed?
• Do you pretend to be “good” or do you seek a crowd that will accept what you do?
• Will you seek what GOD wants for you so HE can guide you to an abundant everlasting life?

Understanding Power

Understanding Power

Acts 5: ¹² And through the hands of the apostles many signs and wonders were done among the people. And they were all with one accord in Solomon’s Porch. ¹³ Yet none of the rest dared join them, but the people esteemed them highly. ¹⁴ And believers were increasingly added to the Lord, multitudes of both men and women, ¹⁵ so that they brought the sick out into the streets and laid them on beds and couches, that at least the shadow of Peter passing by might fall on some of them. ¹⁶ Also a multitude gathered from the surrounding cities to Jerusalem, bringing sick people and those who were tormented by unclean spirits, and they were all healed.

============

“Don’t worry. I have your back” one leader told me. Not knowing how the system worked, I still wondered if I was going to get what I wanted. I acted extra “leader-ish.” Days seemed like weeks but the announcement finally came out. I was the new leader. When I saw how powerful the person was who got me the position, I wanted to bring more people to them for promotions and guidance.

• There were times when I did not understand power.
• There were times when I saw power in action.
• There were times when I wanted the power I saw.

Many signs and wonders were performed by the apostles. After a while the people started holding them in “high esteem.” They knew something special was going on and they brought the sick and those who were oppressed by demons. The people believed and all were healed.

• GOD wants me to see HIM as the only source of power.
• GOD wants me to understand that all power comes from HIM.
• GOD wants me to recognize that every request has to go before HIS throne for permission.

Recognizing where true power comes from is a big problem. I mean I used to look at humans with titles, thinking they had power to oppress or help many people. BUT GOD opened my eyes to HIS unmatched power, showing me that there is nothing that is done without HIS permission.

This understanding made me dig a little deeper into a question. “Why do bad things happen?” GOD told humans the answer, but we fail to believe HIM. HE said He threw Satan out of heaven to this earth. When humans sinned, GOD cursed the earth and our relationship with HIM was broken. BUT GOD made a way back to HIM through JESUS. I recognize HIS power and accept it.

• Are you placing all of your belief in humans?
• Do you spend most of your time watching people with titles and degrees, placing your hope only in them?
• Will you turn to GOD and place your total hope in HIM today?

Cannot Be Stopped

Cannot Be Stopped

Acts 4: Now as they spoke to the people, the priests, the captain of the temple, and the Sadducees came upon them, ² being greatly disturbed that they taught the people and preached in Jesus the resurrection from the dead. ³ And they laid hands on them, and put them in custody until the next day, for it was already evening. ⁴ However, many of those who heard the word believed; and the number of the men came to be about five thousand.

============

“Grow people and take the high road” were words I placed in my heart as I led an organization. One person approached me and said “We are going to get rid of you and those who support you and I will wipe that smile off of your face.” I could see their efforts to put pressure on me increasing. I prayed “LORD, protect me.” One day they approached me and said “We are going to let you go.” Wait, I prayed. What happened?

• There were times when I prayed and expected GOD to do what I thought HE should do.
• There were times when I prayed against those who were doing wrong and it seemed like they won anyway.
• There were times when I prayed and it seemed like GOD just ignored the prayer and let those who were doing wrong, have their way.

The church leaders, who had JESUS killed to protect their wealth and status, saw the people getting excited about HIM. They figured they would put a stop to this by arresting the disciples. But it was too late. The people believed wholeheartedly in JESUS, never to return to religious bondage.

• GOD wants me to see HIM at work even when people are against me.
• GOD wants me to see HE is in control when people are confronting me for serving HIM.
• GOD wants me to see HIS SON has won the war and the battle, even when it feels like I am losing.

GOD’s power cannot be stopped. HIS salvation cannot be stolen, even though sometimes it looks like the enemy is winning the battle and the war. BUT GOD steps in and saves. HIS love is a fire that cannot be put out.

After being released from that job, I wondered what I would do. Shortly after, many people from the old position called, asking for advice and prayer. I could be used to point people to GOD now more than before. GOD sustained me and grew my faith in HIM. I am grateful for the things HE puts me though so I can see HIM all the more.

• Are you going through a situation even though you have honestly been serving the LORD?
• Are people, who call themselves Christians, persecuting you instead of celebrating your service to the LORD?
• Will you praise GOD and serve HIM anyway, knowing HE hears you and is excited about what you are doing for JESUS?

Powered By

Powered By

John 21: After these things Jesus showed Himself again to the disciples at the Sea of Tiberias, and in this way He showed Himself: ² Simon Peter, Thomas called the Twin, Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two others of His disciples were together. ³ Simon Peter said to them, “I am going fishing.”

They said to him, “We are going with you also.” They went out and immediately got into the boat, and that night they caught nothing. ⁴ But when the morning had now come, Jesus stood on the shore; yet the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. ⁵ Then Jesus said to them, “Children, have you any food?”

They answered Him, “No.”

⁶ And He said to them, “Cast the net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some.” So they cast, and now they were not able to draw it in because of the multitude of fish.

============

Seeing traffic was getting clogged up, I exited the expressway. “Maybe the side streets will get me there faster”, I thought to myself. Stopped at numerous lights, I glanced at the slow, but steady movement on the freeway. They were going faster than I was.

I got to work later than ever. I thought missed my opportunity to meet with the person deciding if I would stay at the company or go.. I arrived just before the person and we met in the hallway. “Good timing” the person said. They invited me to move with the company as a promotion.

• Sometimes I try to fix things on my own power.
• Sometimes I think my power is what gets me places.
• Sometimes I work out plans to get myself out of situations only to make matters worse.

Peter and other disciples decided to go fishing. They were experienced fishermen and tried the same old techniques. JESUS appeared on the shore and told them to try the other side of the boat. They had fished all night. How was this going to work? And Why now? It gained them more fish than ever before.

• JESUS says to me, “Believe in MY power.”
• JESUS says to me, “I see your desire and I want what is best for you.”
• JESUS says to me, “I AM excited to show you MY power daily.”

Giving myself too much credit causes me to worry when it comes to the next problem. I mean, I may think I fixed that last problem, but when something bigger comes along, I feel overwhelmed. GOD wants me to give HIM credit for the little things so I can have faith that HE will take care of the big things. It is not my power but GOD’s that saves me and fixes everything.

• Are you trying to control your life?
• Do you think it was your power or another human’s ability that fixed the situation?
• Will you open your eyes and see GOD touching every situation?
• Will you let go and allow GOD to show HIS power today?