I Got This

I Got This

Revelation 1: ¹⁶ He held seven stars in his right hand, and a sharp two-edged sword came out of his mouth. His face was as bright as the midday sun. ¹⁷ When I saw him, I fell down at his feet like a dead man. He placed his right hand on me and said, “Don't be afraid! I am the first and the last. ¹⁸ I am the living one! I was dead, but now I am alive forever and ever. I have authority over death and the world of the dead. ¹⁹ Write, then, the things you see, both the things that are now and the things that will happen afterward. ²⁰ Here is the secret meaning of the seven stars that you see in my right hand, and of the seven gold lampstands: the seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches.

 

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Nervous to say anything, I approached a teacher about a bully. She said, “Don’t worry I will take care of it.”  To my discomfort, she brought the bully in and talked with both of us. His bullying did stop for a while.

 

• I thought she was going to turn my problem into a larger problem.
• I thought she did not understand the urgency of the situation.
• I thought she had the authority, but was using it wrong and was supposed to punish bullies.

 

John, the disciple who JESUS loved, saw HIM in HIS glorious state. No picture or painting could depict what John saw. John fainted at the sight of JESUS because it was overwhelming. JESUS comforted John by explaining that HE has overcome death and holds the world in HIS hand.

 

My Observations:

• JESUS is not worried about the sinful attacks on you and me because HE has overcome sin.
• The world may come up with a hypothesis, BUT GOD has the world under HIS control.
• No word, no situation or circumstance is unseen by JESUS, so I can place my trust in HIS solution.

 

“I got this” is a term used by someone in authority. JESUS said “Do not be afraid” because HE is the first and the last. HE explained HIS credentials by saying “I was dead, but now I am alive forever and ever.” HE then said “I have authority over death and the world.”  In other words, “I got this!”

 

When I turn my eyes to situations where humans feel they are in control, all I need to do is step back and give them over to GOD. JESUS, who is the Word, has a two edged sword that comes out of HIS mouth that will judge the inhabitants of the seven continents. HE has angels over your situation and mine so do not be afraid.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think the writer fainted?
• Have you ever been overwhelmed, thinking about how messed up the world is today?
• Will you place your trust in JESUS, who has all authority and sees those who attempt to get their way, without placing HIM in their hearts, so HE can protect you from their evil plans, forever?

No Doubt

No Doubt

Hebrews 8: The whole point of what we are saying is that we have such a High Priest, who sits at the right of the throne of the Divine Majesty in heaven. ² He serves as high priest in the Most Holy Place, that is, in the real tent which was put up by the Lord, not by human hands.

 

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Sitting on the trunk of my car, I just waited. I didn’t know where I was, but I knew I was very far from my apartment, so I couldn’t walk. My car had broke down and I did not have a phone. It was night. Not too long, a couple picked me up and took me to a rest area. They asked me if I knew CHRIST as my Savior.

 

• I was relieved to get some help.
• I was more relieved that someone who believed in CHRIST picked me up.
• I looked back at the situation and saw that the entire rescue was out of my hands.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, seems to address the fallibility of humans. As unreliable as a human can be, they are chosen as priests. But JESUS serves as the one and only High  Priest, who sits at the right hand of GOD. HIS authority is infallible.

 

My Observations:

• When I rely on my abilities I can get scared, BUT GOD has all the power I need.
• When I think there is no way out of a situation I get worried, BUT GOD is there to show HIS power.
• When I doubt that a solution will not come, GOD provides in ways I did not imagine.

 

Doubt is easy to fall into. I mean, when trouble arises and my abilities seem to be lacking, I worry about how the situation will clear itself up. I replay the trouble and try to come up with a plan, but reality hits and I see that my abilities to solve the situation are far away. BUT GOD steps in and provides.

 

HE places me in situations where only HIS power can solve them. HE then shows me that I can rely on HIS power to solve any problem, if I believe HE can and will do it HIS way. HE always comes through in HIS way and HIS time. I am glad I can place my full trust in HIM with no doubt.

 

Challenge

• What is the “point” the writer is trying to make?
• Have you ever needed something and felt it was impossible to get what you need?
• Will you place your full trust in GOD and know HE has your situation in mind so you can get rid of any doubt today?

Sacred Authority

Sacred Authority

Hebrews 7: ²⁰ In addition, there is also God's vow. There was no such vow when the others were made priests. ²¹ But Jesus became a priest by means of a vow when God said to him,

“The Lord has made a solemn promise
    and will not take it back:
‘You will be a priest forever.’”

²² This difference, then, also makes Jesus the guarantee of a better covenant.

 

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When a peer became my boss, I did not recognize it. I mean, this guy did not know as much  as “me”, nor was he talented. I ignored his meeting invites and his attempts to “tell me what to do.” After a while, his boss asked me to listen to him.

 

• I did not recognize his authority.
• I rejected his title over me.
• I did not believe I could receive any consequence to ignoring his authority.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, get’s serious about the authority of JESUS. GOD made a vow that JESUS would be a priest forever, unlike humans who were born into the priesthood or ordained by other humans. This priesthood is unlike human priesthood because it holds all things sacred to GOD.

 

My Observations:

• GOD gave JESUS all authority to uphold holiness.
• I can choose to ignore the importance of holiness, BUT GOD loves when I embrace it.
• My sin nature abhors GOD’s holiness, BUT JESUS fixed my relationship with HIM.

 

Being a priest represents upholding sacred things to GOD. Unfortunately, human priests have taken advantage of the position with their own sinful lusts. This weakens how humans see what is important to GOD. BUT GOD made a vow that JESUS would be a priest forever. HE and HE alone can uphold all things sacred to GOD.

 

One important thing that JESUS did for me and you is provide forgiveness for sins. Ignoring the importance of this sacred act does not diminish its importance. JESUS is the official being who is allowed to forgive. I gladly bow to HIS authority.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer explain “a better covenant?”
• Have you ever questioned the authority of JESUS or anyone who is in charge?
• Will you recognize the authority of JESUS and learn what is sacred to GOD so you can follow HIM today?

Ignoring the Hook Up

Ignoring the Hook Up

1 Timothy 6 All who are under the yoke of slavery should consider their masters worthy of full respect, so that God’s name and our teaching may not be slandered. ² Those who have believing masters should not show them disrespect just because they are fellow believers. Instead, they should serve them even better because their masters are dear to them as fellow believers and are devoted to the welfare of their slaves.

 

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Being hired for the summer seemed more like dread than favor to me. A person I knew got me a job doing odd and end kind of stuff. From running errands to unloading trucks, I had to just simply do stuff. Another guy who had the same job said to me “Let’s play basketball.”  He then laid out the imaginary rules with a garbage can and a huge ball of paper as the elements. “Of course! “ I said.

 

• I didn’t want to work there anyway!
• I couldn’t find another job and I didn’t like this one.
• I did not appreciate being handed a job by the believer who got me the job.

 

Ugh! Paul speaks to Timothy about slavery. This section was used by many to enforce cruelty and deep hatred towards other humans. Paul, however more than likely, was speaking about employer / employee relationships as the tone sounds voluntary. Employees may have worked harder for non-believers than believers. They may have not valued the favor.

 

My Observations

• On every job, volunteer situation or favor, GOD wants me to work for HIM.
• Each task I am given should be done at its fullest.
• Extra respect should be given to a believer who does me a favor.

 

Valuing favor is sometimes hard. I mean, when I don’t value something given to me or when someone does me a favor by providing me with a job, business deal or being part of a group, I may underestimate the need and goof off. GOD wants better.

 

HE wants me to understand that HE is working through people to provide me with something I would have otherwise, been without. HE also wants me to recognize that when I do my work, I work for HIM, not the employer. I gladly give it my all when I serve others who bless me with being able to serve.

 

Challenge

• What attitude is the writer trying to convey?
• Have you ever had a job in which you just wanted to goof off?
• Will you see your job or business or volunteer situation differently and serve equally as hard as if your life depended on it and know you are serving the LORD through your works?

Authority

Authority

2 Corinthians 10: ⁷ You are looking at the outward appearance of things. Are there some there who reckon themselves to belong to Christ? Well, let them think again about themselves, because we belong to Christ just as much as they do. ⁸ For I am not ashamed, even if I have boasted somewhat too much about the authority that the Lord has given us—authority to build you up, not to tear you down. ⁹ I do not want it to appear that I am trying to frighten you with my letters. ¹⁰ Someone will say, “Paul's letters are severe and strong, but when he is with us in person, he is weak, and his words are nothing!” ¹¹ Such a person must understand that there is no difference between what we write in our letters when we are away and what we will do when we are there with you.

 

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Telling people what they did wrong was part of my job. It worked well for the company, but not so well at home. Spotting quality issues and inconsistencies lacked the “grace” needed that companies would scoff at.

 

• I lacked the ability to overlook, what I thought were, glaring issues.
• I lacked the ability to see beyond the “outward appearance of things.”
• I lacked soothing words when confronted.

 

Paul spoke about a strange authority given to everyone. The authority is to “build you up.” This authority was taken for granted. People who belonged to CHRIST were speaking negatively about what each other was doing, or not doing or believed in.

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to see beyond the “outward appearance of things.”
• GOD has given me the authority to build people up, not tear them down.
• GOD wants me to grow up and use this authority as often as I can.

 

Seeing the “outward appearance of things” is the easy route. I mean, on the surface people make mistakes that seem easily correctable. But what is really going on? Why are the same mistakes made over and over? Maybe its because it is easier to dig a hole and throw someone in versus building people up.

 

It's easy for me to point out mistakes versus taking the opportunity to “build you up.” Frightening people or manipulating them to follow GOD is not the answer. All of us are on the same plane. We have all sinned and fall short of GOD’s glory. But what if I were to put a person on my shoulders to get noticed by GOD? The only being that is “up” is GOD. I will take the authority HE has given me to “build you up.”

 

Challenge

• What dangers does the writer imply by looking at “the outward appearance of things?”
• How does it feel to be “built up?”
• Will you take a different tactic and “build people up” so they may see GOD as the answer versus the problem today?

Perspective on Things

Perspective on Things

1 Corinthians 15: ²³ But each one will be raised in proper order: Christ, first of all; then, at the time of his coming, those who belong to him. ²⁴ Then the end will come; Christ will overcome all spiritual rulers, authorities, and powers, and will hand over the Kingdom to God the Father. ²⁵ For Christ must rule until God defeats all enemies and puts them under his feet. ²⁶ The last enemy to be defeated will be death. ²⁷ For the scripture says, “God put all things under his feet.” It is clear, of course, that the words “all things” do not include God himself, who puts all things under Christ. ²⁸ But when all things have been placed under Christ's rule, then he himself, the Son, will place himself under God, who placed all things under him; and God will rule completely over all.

 

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“It’s his thing” or “It’s her thing” were the words used to describe a passion or hobby. I checked my inventory and didn’t have a “thing” that I was doing well or consistently. “I wonder if I need a thing” I pondered. Maybe I could get a distraction.

 

• I wondered if my thing would make me significant.
• I wondered if my thing would define me.
• I wondered if my thing would bring some brief escape from life’s day to day ups and downs.

 

Paul put “things” into perspective. He mentioned that the resurrection of CHRIST happened in the proper order. JESUS will overcome spiritual rulers, authorities and powers, then GOD will defeat the “things” that enemies do. GOD will defeat the last enemy, namely death and place all “things” under JESUS’ feet.

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to let go of all “things” and allow HIM to choose what is best for me.
• GOD wants me check to see if the “thing” I am holding onto will be raised or defeated.
• GOD wants me to be excited that HE will rule completely one day and sin will no longer exist.

 

Why do people sin? Is a question I have asked. But the real question is probably, “Why don’t people sin all the time?” I mean, it seems humans are at a disadvantage. Being born with a tendency to sin, blaming GOD for my sin, while trying to be GOD and control outcomes to be in my favor, leaves me powerless.

 

BUT GOD has a better path. HE deliberately chose to live a sinless life, die for my sins and was raised to life and has all authority. GOD wants me to see the benefit in the “things” of CHRIST. I gladly seek HIS “things” as my “things.”

 

Challenge

• What does “all things” mean to you?
• Do you think the writer was speaking about specific people when writing about “defeating all enemies” and putting them under JESUS’ feet?
• What do you notice about CHRIST, who has all authority, being willing to subordinate HIS power to the FATHER, even though they are one?

Clear Conscience

 Clear Conscience

Romans 13: Everyone must obey state authorities, because no authority exists without God's permission, and the existing authorities have been put there by God. ² Whoever opposes the existing authority opposes what God has ordered; and anyone who does so will bring judgment on himself. ³ For rulers are not to be feared by those who do good, but by those who do evil. Would you like to be unafraid of those in authority? Then do what is good, and they will praise you, ⁴ because they are God's servants working for your own good. But if you do evil, then be afraid of them, because their power to punish is real. They are God's servants and carry out God's punishment on those who do evil. ⁵ For this reason you must obey the authorities—not just because of God's punishment, but also as a matter of conscience.

 

⁶ That is also why you pay taxes, because the authorities are working for God when they fulfill their duties. ⁷ Pay, then, what you owe them; pay them your personal and property taxes, and show respect and honor for them all.

 

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Being stopped because of a burned out headlight seemed unfair to me, but it was the law. I explained that I was unaware and demonstrated it by turning on the high-beam lights. The burnt out one came on and the other went off. “Okay, you can go” they all said. There were four police.

 

• There have been times when I questioned the law enforcers.
• There have been times when I wondered if I was being singled out.
• There have been times when I felt relieved I was doing what I was supposed to be doing.

 

Paul speak about following laws of people who may not believe in JESUS as their ruler. He knows that no kingdom, good or bad, could be put in place without GOD’s authority. Paul also spoke about paying taxes to show respect. He knew there was something greater at stake.

 

• GOD wants me to know the ultimate goal is to spread who JESUS is.
• GOD knows I need freedom to present the gospel of JESUS.
• GOD reminds me that I am not of this world so even if scoundrels are flexing momentary authority, HIS authority should be my focus.

 

During these days of racial tension over the misuse of authority, I find the timing of this scripture to be amazing. Also, it is tax day in the country I live in so I find that equally amazing. But what am I to learn? Should I just roll over and let abusers continue with injustice on everything Paul mentions? No, but with a different focus.

 

GOD wants me to make HIM my focus. HE is in control of the abusers and HE protects me. Injustice needs to be called out, as long as the end goal is to speak about JESUS. Meanwhile, I will yield to the temporary authority humans have and show everyone the respect JESUS showed me.

 

• Are you mad at those in authority?
• Do you feel you should not yield to their authority because you do not like them?
• Will you see beyond temporary authority and let GOD provide the vengeance HE promised to the abusers while enabling you to continue to speak about JESUS?

Ask for Patience

 

Ask for Patience

Acts 26: Then Agrippa said to Paul, “You have permission to speak for yourself.”

So Paul motioned with his hand and began his defense: ² “King Agrippa, I consider myself fortunate to stand before you today as I make my defense against all the accusations of the Jews, ³ and especially so because you are well acquainted with all the Jewish customs and controversies. Therefore, I beg you to listen to me patiently.

 

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When the deadline approached, I was nowhere near complete. I had underestimated the school work because I had a job. I had to go to the professor and ask for an extension. It was a humbling experience.

 

• There have been many times when I needed grace.
• There have been many times when I needed mercy.
• There have been many times when I needed someone to be patient with me.

 

Paul was speaking before king Agrippa and a huge crowd. He acknowledged the king’s knowledge of Jewish customs and controversies. Paul then asked for the king to have patience because he knew his story would be long.

 

• GOD wants me to be humble enough to ask for patience.
• GOD wants me to recognize when I need help.
• GOD wants me to understand that I am at the mercy of others, so I need patience.

 

Asking for patience from someone is humbling. I mean, what if they say no? Asking for patience takes courage. When I need patience from someone, it usually means the person is in a position to enforce consequence on me or not help me when I need help.

 

GOD wants me to recognize the need for me to ask HIM to have patience with me. Even though HE is slow to anger, I still need to ask HIM to stay with me when I mess up. I am grateful HE will never leave me nor forsake me. GOD is patient with me.

 

• Did you mess up with someone?
• Do you need their mercy?
• Will you humble yourself by confessing to GOD and ask for patience today?

Downplayed

Downplayed

Acts 7: ³⁵ “This Moses whom they rejected, saying, ‘Who made you a ruler and a judge?’ is the one God sent to be a ruler and a deliverer by the hand of the Angel who appeared to him in the bush. ³⁶ He brought them out, after he had shown wonders and signs in the land of Egypt, and in the Red Sea, and in the wilderness forty years.

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“Who made you the boss?” was the thought I had of a peer telling me what to do. Ignoring the request, I continued doing what I was doing. Later I was called into my boss’s office. In a few days it will be announced that you will be reporting to “that” person. I did not realize “that” person was now in charge.

• I have downplayed someone’s directives over me.
• I have downplayed someone’s title over me.
• I have downplayed someone’s authority over me.

Stephen continues explaining how Moses tried to lead the people when he was younger, but the people rejected him as a leader. Later in life, Moses did in fact, lead the people out of Egypt by GOD’s hand. GOD had appointed Moses.

• GOD wants me to know HE has given me purpose.
• GOD wants me to know HE has given me a message.
• GOD wants me to know HE has given me and many other people the message about HIS SON.

Downplaying a person sent by GOD is like ignoring HIM when HE is talking. Unfortunately, there needs to be discernment because there are some who mention GOD but do not believe in HIM.

GOD desires that I believe in HIM with all my heart and carry HIS message of salvation through HIS SON, JESUS who is the CHRIST. I am grateful HE does not brush me off because I am a sinner, rather HE gives me purpose.

• Do you feel people are not listening to the message GOD has given you?
• Do you feel ignored when you speak about JESUS?
• Will you continue to be firm in your faith in GOD and know HIS word does not return void to HIM?

Legalese Corrected

Legalese Corrected

John 12: ⁴⁴ Then Jesus cried out and said, “He who believes in Me, believes not in Me but in Him who sent Me. ⁴⁵ And he who sees Me sees Him who sent Me. ⁴⁶ I have come as a light into the world, that whoever believes in Me should not abide in darkness. ⁴⁷ And if anyone hears My words and does not believe, I do not judge him; for I did not come to judge the world but to save the world. ⁴⁸ He who rejects Me, and does not receive My words, has that which judges him—the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day. ⁴⁹ For I have not spoken on My own authority; but the Father who sent Me gave Me a command, what I should say and what I should speak. ⁵⁰ And I know that His command is everlasting life. Therefore, whatever I speak, just as the Father has told Me, so I speak.”

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“You have to be dressed in your best clothes” I was told. Also, “You should not hang around with people who do ‘those’ things.”  “Give to the building fund.” And another thing… “Wait a minute” I thought to myself. It was too many rules just to go to church. I tried to follow them but became exhausted. I stopped going.

• I remember trying to make GOD into a strict disciplinarian.
• I remember looking at GOD as a strict warden, imprisoning me in rules I could not possibly follow.
• I remember seeing church as a place that upheld a bunch of man-made rules that seemed powerless.

The people had just expressed their dissatisfaction with JESUS saying HE would die. ”The CHRIST cannot die” were their legal words, implying HE must have been a fake. JESUS explained why HE came. HE also explained that if they did not believe in HIM, the very words they use would speak against them.

• JESUS wants me to learn about HIS difficulty with church leaders who place too many rules on people.
• JESUS wants me to be a follower of HIS life.
• JESUS wants me to teach the love of the FATHER, that is often overlooked.

Everlasting life is the FATHER’s desire. The only way to achieve this is to believe in JESUS. HE has given us a way back to HIM, but we must believe that we were lost. GOD wants me to understand that one prideful being decided he wanted to be GOD.

The plot against humanity led to introducing sin into it. This could enable every human to be taken away from GOD. BUT GOD decided to become a human and live a perfect life, tempted in every way. HE died without committing a sin and rose as the Most High. This is where I place my belief.

• Are you following a lot of man-made rules?
• Have you twisted what GOD says to humans in the Bible to control them into following you?
• Will you release your hostages and give them to GOD by pointing them to JESUS and HIS compassion today?

Accepted Authority

Luke 10: ¹⁷ Then the seventy returned with joy, saying, “Lord, even the demons are subject to us in Your name.”

¹⁸ And He said to them, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven.¹⁹ Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you. ²⁰ Nevertheless do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rather rejoice because your names are written in heaven.”

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“Do you have an escort?” I said with a stern voice. I was an office clerk at the dorm and I was not supposed to allow anyone who did not belong into a particular part of the building. If they ignored me, then I could have them removed.

• Certain jobs gave me authority to do things.
• Certain positions allowed me to have authority to say yes or no.
• Certain titles gave me the authority over certain groups of people.

JESUS tells those who HE sent that HE has given them authority over “All the power of the enemy.” HE did this after they returned rejoicing over the amazing miracles they performed. HE then said the real reason to rejoice is because their names were written in heaven.

• GOD has given me the authority to speak about HIS kingdom with power.
• GOD has given me the authority to speak about JESUS as my savior.
• GOD has given me the authority to ask for “anything” in JESUS’s name.

At one time my faith did not believe in demons, miraculous healing or supernatural protection. I mean isn’t that sort of stuff only for the movies? BUT GOD says different. HIS power and authority are supreme. HE reigns over the physical world as much as the spiritual.

Every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that JESUS is the CHRIST and the LORD of all. GOD wants me to have faith in HIS power and authority through JESUS. The “anything” that I ask for should align to what HE desires. I accept the authority HE gives me.

• Do you believe GOD has power over your situation?
• Do you know with your heart that HE is in supreme control?
• Will you ask for what GOD wants you to have and do it in JESUS name?
• Will you rejoice that your name is written in heaven versus the special power HE has imparted on you?

Authority

Luke 4: ³¹ Then He went down to Capernaum, a city of Galilee, and was teaching them on the Sabbaths. ³² And they were astonished at His teaching, for His word was with authority. ³³ Now in the synagogue there was a man who had a spirit of an unclean demon. And he cried out with a loud voice, ³⁴ saying, “Let us alone! What have we to do with You, Jesus of Nazareth? Did You come to destroy us? I know who You are—the Holy One of God!”

³⁵ But Jesus rebuked him, saying,  “Be quiet, and come out of him!” And when the demon had thrown him in their midst, it came out of him and did not hurt him. ³⁶ Then they were all amazed and spoke among themselves, saying, “What a word this is! For with authority and power He commands the unclean spirits, and they come out.” ³⁷ And the report about Him went out into every place in the surrounding region.

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“You can’t sign this?” I was told. “Why?” I questioned. “You do not have the authority to sign a request for the amount greater than your budget. Your boss will need to sign for this.” “Then I have to become the boss” I said to myself.

• There were times when I wanted to have the authority.
• There were times when I desired to be in charge.
• There were times when I wanted to be in control of “my” kingdom.

JESUS spoke with authority and the people were amazed. Instead of teaching from surface knowledge, JESUS probably provided the reason things had to be the way they were. HE then told a demon to leave a person. “Wow!” they thought. “HE really does have authority!”

• GOD wants me to know that JESUS has all authority.
• GOD wants me to know that JESUS is in control of my circumstance.
• GOD wants me to know that JESUS knows about every minute of my life and has already taken care of it.

Long before the world was made JESUS created me with free will. HE knew everything I would go through and the choices I would make. HE still accepted me into HIS family even though I would reject HIS ways, time and time again. I needed saving. Only JESUS has the authority to declare me clean so I owe my eternal life to HIM.

• Are you seeking power?
• Do you want your way and are pouting over it?
• Will you allow JESUS to use HIS authority to show you why you are in this circumstance today?

Call the Authority

Mark: ²¹ They went to Capernaum, and when the Sabbath came, Jesus went into the synagogue and began to teach. ²² The people were amazed at his teaching, because he taught them as one who had authority, not as the teachers of the law. ²³ Just then a man in their synagogue who was possessed by an impure spirit cried out, ²⁴ “What do you want with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are—the Holy One of God!”

²⁵ “Be quiet!” said Jesus sternly. “Come out of him!” ²⁶ The impure spirit shook the man violently and came out of him with a shriek.

²⁷ The people were all so amazed that they asked each other, “What is this? A new teaching—and with authority! He even gives orders to impure spirits and they obey him.” ²⁸ News about him spread quickly over the whole region of Galilee.

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“What is that weird sound?” I asked myself with a grimace as I turned on the air condition. It was a very hot day and my luxury item was acting like it was dying. I tried to look at it but my lack of knowledge was quickly revealed. “Well, it’s not the filter, now what?” I had to call an expert.

• Many times I need help.
• Many times I feel lost ad hopeless.
• Many times I try something where I am clearly out of my league.

JESUS spoke with authority like no one had heard before. HE knew the heart behind the law because HE wrote the law. HE wasn’t guessing nor manipulating people by twisting the words, like the church leaders were doing. HE showed HIS authority by casting out a demon. All were amazed!

• When I need help I can call on JESUS because HE has authority over my issue.
• When I am in trouble I can call on JESUS because HE can handle any trouble with ease.
• When I need help JESUS steps in even when I cannot call for help.

The demon possessed man could not ask for help, yet the very presence of JESUS made the demon nervous. JESUS helped the man without being asked and HE did it with authority. HE does the same in my life as well. HE steps in when I am petrified and rescues me when I am in trouble. JESUS has authority in my life.

• Are you stuck?
• Do you think everything around you is crumbling?
• Can you look to the only one who has authority and ask JESUS for guidance today?

For This Reason

Matthew 28: ¹⁶ Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. ¹⁷ When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. ¹⁸ Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. ¹⁹ Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, ²⁰ and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

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“Why should I?” was my question after someone barked orders at me. I knew “What” I was supposed to do and “How” I was supposed to do it, but “Why” I was doing it eluded me, so I asked. “Because I said so” was the answer” given to me.

• Sometimes I have questioned authority.
• Sometimes I wondered if those in charge had it together.
• Sometimes I checked to see if those in charge were really in charge.

JESUS did what HE said. HE rose from the grave. Lazarus was raised from the dead before JESUS, no one before or after said “I will rise from the dead” and actually do it. 

• JESUS says to me “Go and make disciples of all nations” because all authority has been given to HIM.
• JESUS says to me “Baptize all nations in the name of the FATHER and the SON and of the HOLY SPIRIT” because of HIS authority.
• JESUS says to me “Teach them to obey everything I have commanded you” because HE is in authority.

All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to JESUS. HE decides who has eternal life and eternal death. HE decides what happens in a given day for me and has wonderful plans for me each day. JESUS assures me that I am not alone and never will be. HE is in charge and HE loves me.

• Are you questioning GOD and HIS authority?
• Do you feel GOD should be doing something different in your life so you have a right to question HIM?
• Can you allow HIM to take care of you and let HIM decide your path today?

Called and Authorized

Matthew 10: Jesus called his twelve disciples to him and gave them authority to drive out impure spirits and to heal every disease and sickness.

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From “nobody special” to “purpose filled,” JESUS saw HIS disciples and gave them a mission. They weren’t supposed to sit and study HIM or read scripture about HIM. They were given a task so great that it would turn the world upside down.

• JESUS called HIS disciples to meet people who had serious problems.
• JESUS called HIS disciples to seek those who needed HIM.
• JESUS called HIS disciples to drive out impure spirits and to heal every disease and sickness.

Why give this group of unknowns this amazing power? I mean, won’t people start following them like they were gods? No! Following JESUS was a crime subject to death, so those who accepted this calling knew they were going to be persecuted and ostracized by friends and family.

• GOD calls me to spread HIS great news.
• GOD calls me to drive out impure spirits.
• GOD calls me to heal every disease and sickness.

Wait a minute! I don’t know how to do most of those things. I don’t have any special powers to fight demons or heal people by touching them, or do I? When GOD called me, HE gave me the ability to have faith in HIS power. According to the measure of my faith, GOD somehow draws people to HIMSELF through my service to HIM.

If HE needs someone to be healed in order for them to believe in HIM, then whether I know HE healed them through me or not is none of my business. Seeking credit for healing a person is not the purpose. GOD wants me to simply be present around the sick, diseased and impure. Once I’m there, HE does the rest. GOD gives me purpose.

• Are you called?
• When is the last time you have sought out people who need healing?
• Will you allow GOD to place you in situations where HE can use HIS powers though your presence today?

Who is HE?

Revelation 1: ⁸ “I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.”

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Sometimes I just ponder what and “who” GOD is. I have no story or situation I can relate to HIS being.

The FATHER is GOD

JESUS is GOD

The HOLY SPIRIT is GOD

They never act alone but are in agreement with one another therefore “they” can be referred to as HE and the plural is “GOD”, not “gods” for they are one.

They always exist and have always existed and will always exist.

They are all powerful, all knowing and all seeing.

JESUS speaks to us by saying “I am” for HE is the one who became a human and died for my sins. Every sin I have ever committed is erased. HE was murdered by people who attended church but did not believe “in” the church. Yet HE stands. HE forgives. HE blesses.

GOD has all authority.

GOD has all power.

GOD has all glory.

I think I will place my faith in HIM today. Won’t you?

How should I pray?

1 Timothy 2:¹I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— ² for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. ³ This is good, and pleases God our Savior,

⁴ who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.

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Puny was over exaggerating my size growing up. I had to gain weight just to be called puny. When the bullies would surface I had my escape plan handy. To this day I still abhor bully-ish behavior. When I see people trying to flex their control I get my boxing gloves out and dig in for a fight. This person needs to be taught a lesson.

• Fighting other people does not draw them to CHRIST.
• When I dig in to “teach someone a lesson” I may be pushing them away from CHRIST.
• Entrenching my position does not yield an atmosphere where GOD can work through me.

GOD wants me to ask HIM to do something “for” the person not “about” the person. This requires that I get to know them and actually want something better “for” them. HE wants me to discuss them and talk about them in a way that HE would say something about them.

When they don’t act like they should HE wants me to step up and speak on their behalf to HIM. Most of all HE wants me to be thankful for the person because a thankful attitude yields a better relationship.

• GOD wants me to have peace so I’m the one who starts it.
• GOD wants me to have a quiet life so I have to douse my rage with forgiveness.
• GOD wants me to have a godly life so I must intercede for those who may not have my best interest in mind.
• GOD wants me to be holy and since I am a sinner my holiness only comes by understanding I am an enemy of GOD unless I believe in HIS SON as my mediator.

It’s easy to pray for friends and family who treat me right. It’s a little harder to desire the “best” for those who treat me like dirt. GOD wants my intercession as an act of worship to HIM.

• Is there someone in your life who has done you wrong?
• Can you stop looking for them to ne changed and start praying for GOD to treat them with peace?
• Will you act as a mediator for the person, asking GOD to treat them well so they can be saved?
• Do you know that maybe someone needs to intercede for you?

Who should I be focused on?

Colossians 1: ¹⁵ The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. ¹⁶ For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him.

¹⁷ He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.

¹⁸ And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy.

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Generosity was taught to me by my in-laws. Investing was taught to me by one of my best friend’s parents. Cooking was taught to me by many of my “mothers” and “uncles” from neighborhoods far and wide. My parents taught me about GOD.

These were people to admire yet they do not quite match up to the ONE I am supposed to look at.

• JESUS is the SON of GOD who created all things with the FATHER and the HOLY SPIRIT.
• JESUS is the one who all things were created for.
• JESUS is the authority who puts rulers in charge of governments.
• JESUS is the one who is supreme over any force or power.
• JESUS is the glue that holds all things together.
• JESUS is the church and HE chose to die just for me.

In these days of people looking at other people to admire, it’s difficult to find someone who is truly in my corner. I mean what is the hidden agenda “that” person holds? JESUS is above everything so HE has no need to have a hidden agenda.

HE willingly and purposefully died for me to serve a sentence HE declared. HE said I should die because of my sins yet HE turned around and died for me.  Now that HE is alive HE is busy building a place for me and those who believe in HIS supremacy.  HE is the one I should focus on.

• Are you wearing yourself out trying to be a role model?
• Are you disappointed in someone?
• Have people pulled away from you?
• Can you focus on JESUS today and ponder what HE has done for you?
• Will you give HIM your cares today?