Trusted Blessings

Trusted Blessings

Genesis 39: Now Joseph had been taken down to Egypt. And Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh, captain of the guard, an Egyptian, bought him from the Ishmaelites who had taken him down there. ² The Lord was with Joseph, and he was a successful man; and he was in the house of his master the Egyptian. ³ And his master saw that the Lord was with him and that the Lord made all he did to prosper in his hand. ⁴ So Joseph found favor in his sight, and served him. Then he made him overseer of his house, and all that he had he put under his authority. ⁵ So it was, from the time that he had made him overseer of his house and all that he had, that the Lord blessed the Egyptian’s house for Joseph’s sake; and the blessing of the Lord was on all that he had in the house and in the field. ⁶ Thus he left all that he had in Joseph’s hand, and he did not know what he had except for the bread which he ate.

 

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Joseph was given a dream by GOD that his father and brothers would one day bow to him. Some of his brothers wanted to kill him but Reuben and Judah convinced the others to do something less lethal by selling Joseph to the Ishmaelites where he was then sold to the Egyptians. Potiphar bought Joseph as a slave.

 

My Observations:

• Joseph’s story continues from where it left off, after he was sold, but wee don’t know how many years have passed.
• The pre-incarnate LORD visited Joseph daily and helped him be successful.
• Potiphar trusted Joseph because the LORD was with him.

 

Extreme trust was placed on Joseph by Potiphar. He trusted Joseph so much, that he didn’t even count his money anymore. He was only concerned about the next meal he ate. The LORD stayed with Joseph and blessed all he did.

 

Joseph, like many others who had been left alone, probably needed JESUS to walk with him to remain encouraged. He was sold into slavery, never to see his father again, or so he thought. JESUS had to keep him encouraged, so HE stayed with him. Potiphar was only concerned with becoming wealthy. He did not mind JESUS coming around Joseph. He became blessed because of Joseph’s favor.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD emphasize to Moses that “The LORD was with Joseph?”
• Have you ever felt alone and wanted to give up?
• Do you realize that the LORD is with you today and is walking through your troubles with you?

 

I Have Enough

 I Have Enough

Genesis 33: ⁸ Then Esau said, “What do you mean by all this company which I met?”

And he said, “These are to find favor in the sight of my lord.”

⁹ But Esau said, “I have enough, my brother; keep what you have for yourself.”

 

¹⁰ And Jacob said, “No, please, if I have now found favor in your sight, then receive my present from my hand, inasmuch as I have seen your face as though I had seen the face of God, and you were pleased with me. ¹¹ Please, take my blessing that is brought to you, because God has dealt graciously with me, and because I have enough.” So he urged him, and he took it.

 

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Esau asked Jacob about all the stuff that was placed before him. Jacob had set aside herds and breeders so the herds would remain plentiful. It took some doing, but Jacob convinced Esau to take the gift.

 

My Observations:

• Esau had grown to be a mighty leader and had no need for more of what he could get.
• Jacob had grown to be a very influential leader and had not need of what he had plenty of.
• Esau and Jacob had both grown up beyond the stuff they had.

 

Esau wanted to kill Jacob for stealing his birthright and the blessing from Isaac. But he realized his lifestyle may have caused his own problems. Esau tried to change by going to Ishmael and marrying someone from his family instead of marrying another Hittite woman. This was the start of Esau’s growth.

 

Jacob served a greedy uncle who could only think about free labor. For twenty years, Jacob changed little by little. Jacob saw the LORD and wrestled with HIM. Jacob grew stronger in his belief in GOD’s power. He had plenty and gave Esau a gift, probably asking for forgiveness.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think GOD told Moses about the gift exchange between Jacob and Esau?
• Do you feel you are lacking or have plenty?
• Will you ask GOD to show you what real plentifulness looks like?

Being Watched

Being Watched

Genesis 26: ²⁶ Then Abimelech came to him from Gerar with Ahuzzath, one of his friends, and Phichol the commander of his army. ²⁷ And Isaac said to them, “Why have you come to me, since you hate me and have sent me away from you?”

 

²⁸ But they said, “We have certainly seen that the Lord is with you. So we said, ‘Let there now be an oath between us, between you and us; and let us make a covenant with you, ²⁹ that you will do us no harm, since we have not touched you, and since we have done nothing to you but good and have sent you away in peace. You are now the blessed of the Lord.’ ”

 

³⁰ So he made them a feast, and they ate and drank. ³¹ Then they arose early in the morning and swore an oath with one another; and Isaac sent them away, and they departed from him in peace.

 

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Abimelech went out to see Isaac after hearing about the quarrels and the hostility. He brought along with him Ahuzzath and Phichol, the commander of his army. Years before, Abimelech met with Abraham and did the same thing by bringing military strength with him. He cam to make a treaty.

 

My Observations:

• Isaac was being watched by his enemies.
• Isaac did nothing to make Abimelech his enemy, but since he followed GOD, Abimelech became an adversary.
• Abimelech watched Isaac to see if he was blessed like Abraham and recognized that he was.

 

During Abraham’s day, Sodom and Gomorrah was wiped out. Fear struck surrounding leaders into caution. Abimelech probably heard that his people would steal from and fight against Isaac. He may have gotten nervous about GOD so he went out to make a treaty.

 

Abimelech made his leaders swear to not harm Isaac and asked Isaac to return the favor. He did not want the wrath of GOD on him so they made a covenant. He watched Isaac and saw the he was indeed “blessed of the LORD.”

 

Challenge

• Why do you think GOD told Moses about this conversation?
• Do you believe that you are being watched by more people than you think?
• What example of GOD are you setting to people you don’t even know are watching you?

Blessings Upon Blessings

Blessings Upon Blessings

Genesis 26: ¹² Then Isaac sowed in that land, and reaped in the same year a hundredfold; and the Lord blessed him. ¹³ The man began to prosper, and continued prospering until he became very prosperous; ¹⁴ for he had possessions of flocks and possessions of herds and a great number of servants. So the Philistines envied him. ¹⁵ Now the Philistines had stopped up all the wells which his father’s servants had dug in the days of Abraham his father, and they had filled them with earth. ¹⁶ And Abimelech said to Isaac, “Go away from us, for you are much mightier than we.”

 

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Isaac stayed in the area that had a famine which was in the land of the Philistines in Gerar. There he was able to plant in fields. Supernaturally, his fields grew faster and more plentiful than anyone else’s.

 

My Observations:

• GOD blessed Isaac because HE promised HE would.
• Isaac did not do anything special, BUT GOD did.
• Abimelech became a hater because Isaac was blessed.

 

Seeing Isaac prosper made the Philistines jealous. Isaac followed in his father’s footsteps by believing and trusting in the LORD. I believe it was JESUS who met Isaac and told him to “Dwell in this land, and I will be with you and bless you.”  HE did as HE said.

 

Blessings kept coming towards Isaac. Crowds flocked to him and soon he was growing stronger than the Philistines. Following GOD was attractive to people. Abimelech knew that the way of the Philistines was being threatened. He sent Isaac away before war broke out. GOD blessed Isaac tremendously!

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about blessing Isaac?
• Has GOD kept you all these years?
• Will you praise GOD for all the blessings HE has given you and will continue to give you?

Blessed Up Plan

Blessed Up Plan

Genesis 16: ⁷ Now the Angel of the Lord found her by a spring of water in the wilderness, by the spring on the way to Shur. ⁸ And He said, “Hagar, Sarai’s maid, where have you come from, and where are you going?”

 

She said, “I am fleeing from the presence of my mistress Sarai.”

 

⁹ The Angel of the Lord said to her, “Return to your mistress, and submit yourself under her hand.” ¹⁰ Then the Angel of the Lord said to her, “I will multiply your descendants exceedingly, so that they shall not be counted for multitude.” ¹¹ And the Angel of the Lord said to her:

 

“Behold, you are with child,
And you shall bear a son.
You shall call his name Ishmael,
Because the Lord has heard your affliction.
¹² He shall be a wild man;
His hand shall be against every man,
And every man’s hand against him.
And he shall dwell in the presence of all his brethren.”

 

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Hagar fled into the wilderness from Sarai. Abram heard from the LORD that he would have countless descendants. Sarai was barren and made Abram marry her maid Hagar so she would confiscate her child. But she got jealous and began to abuse Hagar.  Having nowhere to go, Hagar sat by a spring.

 

JESUS came to her and asked her questions HE knew the answers to. She did not tell HIM the full story, rather an abbreviated version. HE told her to go back. HE then said HE would make her have countless descendants.

 

My Observations:

• JESUS knew the mess Sarai made and blessed the plan anyway.
• JESUS saw Hagar, who never bowed to HIM before, and came to her because she was part of a larger plan.
• JESUS sent her back to a hostile place, but gave her a new spark of life, knowing she would be the mother of a great multitude of people.

 

What a messed-up plan. Sarai introduced dysfunction that would remain for years. Hagar may have feared for her life. BUT GOD told her HIS plan of protection. She could then, go back and face the harsh treatment. Despite the trouble, Hagar would become the mother of countless people.

 

Challenge

• Why does JESUS tell Moses about HIS conversation with Hagar?
• Have you ever been in a difficult situation and wanted to escape?
• Even if it is difficult, will you continue on the journey with JESUS as your teacher and guide?

Faith to Blessing

Faith to Blessing

Genesis 12: Now the Lord had said to Abram:

 

“Get out of your country,
From your family
And from your father’s house,
To a land that I will show you.
² I will make you a great nation;
I will bless you
And make your name great;
And you shall be a blessing.
³ I will bless those who bless you,
And I will curse him who curses you;
And in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.”

 

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After years of being in Haran, Terah, Abram’s father, died. Teran had learned many things from the Chaldeans and had possibly amassed great wealth. He may have taught Abram how to take care of this vast empire. But now Abram saw his father pass away. He may have remembered how sad his father got when thinking about the son he lost.

 

Before Abram had time to think about sadness of the loss of his father, GOD spoke to him.

 

My Observations:

• Abram seemed to be following GOD from his youth.
• GOD had a plan that would be fulfilled through Abram, so HE promised to protect him.
• GOD had to tell Abram not to settle for what he had, where he had it, but to leave and focus on HIS blessing.

 

It would have been easy for Abram to stay where he was and to fall into sadness like his father did. BUT GOD had a plan for Abram that would bless “all families: that were “in” him. He had to leave his father’s house without worrying about where he would live.

 

He may have been comfortable with settling with being unknown, BUT GOD wanted him known for HIS purpose. Other people sought greatness, BUT GOD sought Abram and made him great. Because of Abram’s belief in GOD’s ways from the passed down stories of Shem through Terah; Abram had greater faith than his ancestors. GOD clearly saw something different and blessed him.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about the blessing HE bestowed on Abram?
• Have you gotten settled where you are, doing the same thing that you have been doing?
• Are you open to GOD moving you to do something different, so HIS plan can be fulfilled through you?

Humans Day 5

Humans Day 5

Genesis 1: ²⁰ Then God said, “Let the waters abound with an abundance of living creatures, and let birds fly above the earth across the face of the firmament of the heavens.” ²¹ So God created great sea creatures and every living thing that moves, with which the waters abounded, according to their kind, and every winged bird according to its kind. And God saw that it was good. ²² And God blessed them, saying, “Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the waters in the seas, and let birds multiply on the earth.” ²³ So the evening and the morning were the fifth day.

 

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Water, light, day, night, outer space, stars, sky, air, vegetation, dry land, and minerals were all in place and working well. The Earth was rotating properly and had made four revolutions. GOD then spoke fish and birds into existence. HE then provides the very first blessing by saying “Be fruitful and multiply.”  This blessing enabled species of all kinds of birds and fish to fill the waters and the air.

 

My Observations:

• GOD cares about the details of every fish and bird.
• GOD speaks to every living creature.
• GOD is excited about abundance for HIS creation.

 

Abundance sticks out to me when I see GOD creating the birds and fish. Not only did HE create plenty, HE created the ability for each species to have plenty. The math HE gave the birds and fish was multiplication versus addition. HE was very pleased that the birds and fish would be delightful for humans.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think GOD told Moses about the first blessing?
• What is your idea of abundance compared to GOD’s idea of abundance?
• Have you ever noticed that GOD did not create money during this week of creation, rather HE built a space HE knew was fitting for humans?

Great Blessings

Great Blessings

Hebrews 7: ⁴ You see, then, how great he was. Abraham, our famous ancestor, gave him one tenth of all he got in the battle. ⁵ And those descendants of Levi who are priests are commanded by the Law to collect one tenth from the people of Israel, that is, from their own people, even though they are also descendants of Abraham. ⁶ Melchizedek was not descended from Levi, but he collected one tenth from Abraham and blessed him, the man who received God's promises. ⁷ There is no doubt that the one who blesses is greater than the one who is blessed. 

 

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A customer left a great rating about my service. I was honored to receive the rating and realized how much the good word meant to other people. My service was not as important as the rating received because other people believed in the ratings.

 

• I was the recipient of a blessing.
• My word about my company was not as powerful as my customer’s word.
• I wanted “my” word to be enough, but it took the blessing of a customer to get others to believe.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, spoke highly of Abraham. He mentions that Abraham was “famous”, yet still gave Melchizedek one tenth of all he collected in battle. The writer goes on to mention that priests still follow this example, showing the greatness of the act. He then closes with speaking about greatness.

 

My Observations:

• JESUS has blessed me to be one of HIS servants.
• I can never be greater than JESUS.
• GOD wants me to be a servant, which will translate to HIM declaring me as “great.”

 

The first will be last and last will be first” is one of JESUS’ promises. HE sees “greatness” when I follow HIS example by serving those who do not look or act like me. Even when I fall, JESUS is great enough to pick me up and use me for HIS good.

 

Feeling blessed is different than being declared blessed. I mean, when JESUS mentions “blessed are the…” HE is talking about me and you. HE is greater than us and pours out HIS blessings on us. I gladly accept HIS blessings today.

 

Challenge

• What blessing is the writer speaking of?
• Have you ever had a reference or a referral from someone who spoke highly of you?
• Will you speak highly of someone so he or she can see JESUS and accept HIS great blessings today?

Reason for Promise

 

Reason for Promise

Hebrews 6: ¹³ When God made his promise to Abraham, he made a vow to do what he had promised. Since there was no one greater than himself, he used his own name when he made his vow. ¹⁴ He said, “I promise you that I will bless you and give you many descendants.” ¹⁵ Abraham was patient, and so he received what God had promised. 

 

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“I will pick you up at 7” were the words I depended on. But when 7 rolled around, I was not picked up. “Oh my goodness, I forgot” was the real, but hurtful statement.

 

• I felt let down.
• I was a little frustrated.
• I wanted to say something, but had nothing to say.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, mentions a promise made to Abraham. He also provides assurance that GOD’s promises are so great, that nothing can stop it. Abraham received GOD’s blessing, only because GOD was faithful.

 

My Observations:

• When I need assurance, GOD gives me HIS promises.
• When I feel lost and alone, GOD promises to be with me.
• When I need encouragement, GOD is there to promise HIS delivery.

 

GOD has nothing to prove. I mean, HE is the most powerful, all knowing being who lives everywhere. I believe the reason HE promises so much, is to give us assurance that HE will remain with us even when we don’t believe it.

 

HIS love is powerful and HIS grace sufficient. HE can and will do HIS plan , and nothing, now anyone can stop it. I am glad GOD promises to love me and there is nothing that can change it!

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer mention Abraham’s promise?
• Have you ever been disappointed when someone promised you something but did not keep the promise?
• Have you ever broken your promise?
• Will you consider that GOD’s plan for you is great and unwavering, so you can have assurance today?

Nothing Held Back

Nothing Held Back

Ephesians 1: ³ Let us give thanks to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! For in our union with Christ he has blessed us by giving us every spiritual blessing in the heavenly world. ⁴ Even before the world was made, God had already chosen us to be his through our union with Christ, so that we would be holy and without fault before him.

 

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Searching for some relaxation, I pursued life’s pleasures. I was now out of “the house” and on my own. Parties were fun, sex was fun and waking up in the middle of the afternoon was fun. But life had a way of returning. Sometimes life came back faster and harder than I wanted.

 

• I had a misconception of heaven.
• I thought I could find a bit of perfection here on Earth.
• I wanted relief from life so I indulged in the world’s ideas of what a “blessed” life is.

 

Paul clears up a misconception of being able to find heaven on earth. He also gives everyone who believes in JESUS some relief that their sins are forgiven and we are declared “holy” and “without fault.”

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to focus on HIS tremendous blessings HE has given me.
• GOD wants me to know JESUS and for JESUS to know me so I can receive spiritual blessings.
• GOD wants me to understand that HE chose me to be with JESUS before HE made me.

 

Spiritual blessings are hard to imagine. I mean, I am so immersed in what the world dictates as “blessed.” Whether it is the lust for money, power or pleasure, life has a way of clouding my vision of what true blessings really are.

 

When I turn to the world, I tend to get mad at GOD for not “blessing” me enough. I look at bills, or people’s actions, or where I am in life and question GOD. BUT GOD took care of my doubts, fears and lusts. HE gave me a wonderful gift, namely JESUS and now I have every spiritual blessing in the heavenly world I can get. I thank GOD for the many blessings HE poured out on me.

 

Challenge

• Where is the writer’s focus?
• Is it possible we may have a misconception of what heaven is?
• Will you give GOD the FATHER your thankfulness today for having chosen you and for giving you HIS all?

Comfort of Belief

Comfort of Belief

Galatians 3: ⁶ Consider the experience of Abraham; as the scripture says, “He believed God, and because of his faith God accepted him as righteous.” ⁷ You should realize, then, that the real descendants of Abraham are the people who have faith. ⁸ The scripture predicted that God would put the Gentiles right with himself through faith. And so the scripture announced the Good News to Abraham: “Through you God will bless all people.” ⁹ Abraham believed and was blessed; so all who believe are blessed as he was.

 

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“Would you like to have a position leading a small team?” was the question that seemed too good to be true and I could not believe. In fact, I wanted to know the catch. Was I being set up for failure? “It’s not a hoax. Take the position” were the words of a boss that I, and many, did not like. I was suspicious, but took the position and it worked out well.

 

• Sometimes I want to protect myself so I withhold my belief.
• Sometimes I want evidence so I research until I feel comfortable.
• Sometimes I want a crowd or logical thinkers who have proven themselves time and time again, to provide answers so I will not make a mistake.

 

Abraham is known as the Father of faith. When GOD told him, he would be blessed because of his faith, he believed. This belief was simple. Abraham did not have to do anything but believe and GOD would do the rest. Abraham acted on this belief in ways that baffled many, but it worked out well.

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to obey HIM, even when many doubt HIS path for me.
• GOD wants me to believe in HIS SON as the answer, even when the crowd has agreed on another way.
• GOD wants me to know HE has the entire situation, all I have to do is believe.

 

Feeling blessed and being blessed seem to be two very different things. The world would have a definition of “blessed” that is vastly different than the way GOD sees it. HE is seeking the lot and wants HIS kingdom to flourish. The world wants humans to focus on self-indulgence, self—preservation and selfish behaviors.

 

Belief in JESUS breaks the chain of “self.” When I believed in JESUS, my life became HIS. It may not look successful to the world, but all of heaven rejoiced when I said “JESUS is my Savior.” I am glad GOD’s blessings for me can never be stolen.

 

Challenge

• What does the writer say about Abraham’s belief?
• Have you ever believed in something that is counterintuitive and it worked out?
• Will you be comforted that GOD sees your belief and will reward you greatly?

You are Covered

 

You are Covered

Romans 4: ⁶ David says the same thing when he speaks of the blessedness of the one to whom God credits righteousness apart from works:

⁷ “Blessed are those
    whose transgressions are forgiven,
    whose sins are covered.
⁸ Blessed is the one
    whose sin the Lord will never count against them.”

 

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As I ordered my burger, I could not wait to eat. It was lunchtime and this was a departure from the normal bologna sandwich I would carry around in a paper bag. When the burger was cooked, he asked for payment. To my dismay, I left the money at home I was supposed to put in my wallet. “That’s okay, you are covered.” He graciously said to me. Bring it in tomorrow. I was relieved.

 

• Many people have been gracious to me.
• Many people have done thing for me who I am indebted to.
• Many people have not counted my debt against me.

 

Paul reflects on David’s words in one of the Psalms. David mentions that GOD credits righteousness apart from works. Paul mentions that GOD knows the sins of the one who believes in HIS grace, but does not hold that sin against that person.

 

• GOD wants me to believe that my sins have been forgiven by JESUS.
• GOD wants me to be excited that there is nothing more that needs to be done for my salvation.
• GOD wants me to be secure in my relationship with HIM.

 

Knowing I am “covered” means I do not owe GOD anything. I do not owe GOD money, time or treasure. With this realization, I owe HIM everything. I mean, it is really exciting to have a relationship with some as generous as GOD. HE looked at my debt and died for it. What more could HE do?

 

HE wiped away all my debt and nothing more is owed. I am so thankful, that I feel I have to give HIM something. What do I give to the being who owns everything? I give myself, thankfully.

 

• Are you so distracted with the world’s debts that you overlook the debt you owe to GOD?
• Do you think your efforts to stop doing some sins, earns you some righteous points?
• Will you simply believe that JESUS paid it all and all to HIM you owe today?

Irrational

Romans 3: ⁵ But what if our doing wrong serves to show up more clearly God's doing right? Can we say that God does wrong when he punishes us? (This would be the natural question to ask.) ⁶ By no means! If God is not just, how can he judge the world?

 

⁷ But what if my untruth serves God's glory by making his truth stand out more clearly? Why should I still be condemned as a sinner? ⁸ Why not say, then, “Let us do evil so that good may come”? Some people, indeed, have insulted me by accusing me of saying this very thing! They will be condemned, as they should be.

 

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After sitting on my trunk for 15 minutes, a couple picked me up. It was dark and my car had broke down. Why did they pick me up? I thought to myself. I mean, they were a different race than me and in that state, it was rare to see racial line being crossed. “Do you know JESUS?” was their question to me as we pulled into the rest area where they dropped me off. “Yes” I answered.

 

• Many people have irrationally served me.
• Many people have shown me love and I did not ask for it.
• Many people have blessed me and I could not find a reason why they did it.

 

Paul explains faulty logic. He shows how people try to rationalize GOD away by asking “what if” questions. These questions try to prove GOD is not who HE is or even exists. Paul makes it plain that those who continue down that path will be condemned.

 

• GOD wants me to admit my sin to HIM.
• GOD wants me to recognize that I need HIM for forgiveness and protection.
• GOD wants me to know HE is concerned about this life and the afterlife.

 

Justifying evil seems logical. I mean, when I use the term “everyone else is doing it”, I am trying to join the crowd, who obviously is right. It wouldn’t be a crowd if it were wrong, right? Wrong. None of us choose GOD. Fortunately HE chose us.

 

When JESUS died for my sins, HE made a way for me to be forgiven. It was irrational for HIM to see that I would not choose HIM, yet HE died for me anyway. HE sees me blaming HIM, yet HE loves me. I am thankful JESUS chose love over human logic.

 

• Are you avoiding learning about GOD so you can continue doing what you want to do?
• Have you rationalized GOD out of your life and believe in humans who do not believe in HIM?
• Will you add faith and belief to your thinking and allow JESUS to irrationally guide you to an abundant life of purpose today?

Hard Work

Hard Work

Acts 20: ³² “Now I commit you to God and to the word of his grace, which can build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified. ³³ I have not coveted anyone’s silver or gold or clothing. ³⁴ You yourselves know that these hands of mine have supplied my own needs and the needs of my companions. ³⁵ In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ ”

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After staying up all night many nights, I finally finished parts of the project that were difficult to complete. The hard work was done. When the project debuted, it was a huge success. Everyone at the convention came to see the shiny new thing. But when approached to feed the homeless I said, “I’m too busy.”

• There were many times when I was willing to work hard for money.
• There were many times when I was willing to receive accolades for projects to make others rich.
• There were many times when I was willing to exhaust myself over pleasing the very wealthy.

Paul was about to reach the conclusion of his plea to the leaders who came to visit him. He committed them to GOD and then told them about his views on serving and money. He let them know he did not desire their money or clothes rather he wanted to serve the weak by hard work.

• GOD wants me to remember the poor and those who are weak.
• GOD wants me to seek those who have fallen on hard times.
• GOD wants me to work hard so I can give to those who are in need.

Remembering those who are in need takes work. I mean, it is easy to work hard for the rich to become rich. BUT GOD wants me to remember why I work hard. HE wants me to remember those who are in need and will remain in need. HE wants me to see people with compassion versus being a problem. I am grateful GOD chose me to be a laborer for HIM.

• Are you working hard?
• Do you come home exhausted, never once thinking of someone in need?
• Will you reserve a small amount of time to think of at least one person who needs something from you today so GOD can be shown through your actions?

Taken Care Of

Taken Care Of

John 21: ⁷ Therefore that disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” Now when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his outer garment (for he had removed it), and plunged into the sea. ⁸ But the other disciples came in the little boat (for they were not far from land, but about two hundred cubits), dragging the net with fish. ⁹ Then, as soon as they had come to land, they saw a fire of coals there, and fish laid on it, and bread. ¹⁰ Jesus said to them, “Bring some of the fish which you have just caught.”

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Waiting in line at the toll nearest work, my mind raced with the projects I was working on. I finally stopped thinking long enough to notice the car in front of me was taking longer than normal. “What is taking them so long?” I said out loud impatiently to myself. When I got to the toll window, the person said “You can go through. The person ahead of you paid your toll.”

• There were times when I received more than I gave.
• There were times when I received an unexpected windfall.
• There were times when I received something wonderful that I did not deserve.

JESUS filled the nets of the disciples after they abandoned the idea of following HIM. I mean, HE was dead. Would you blame them? One disciple recognized JESUS on the shore and told Peter, who immediately jumped in the water to get to JESUS. He abandoned the great catch, seeking what he had been looking for. JESUS had even more fish and bread for them.

• GOD wants to bless me wildly.
• GOD wants to give me abundant life.
• GOD wants to see me elated within HIS mighty will.

In the middle of discouragement, JESUS appears, ready to pick me up to serve HIM. HE guides me to a plan that I usually do not understand. Something as simple as smiling when everyone is frowning may seem powerless, BUT GOD uses it to disarm those who are battling with HIM.

JESUS knows exactly what I want and need, HE wants me to be excited enough to jump in and follow HIM. HE has given me plenty and has even more to give to me. HE has taken care of me and all my situations.

• Are you in a period where your faith is waning?
• Do you see only trouble around you?
• Will you open your eyes and see the mighty hand of GOD, protecting you, guiding you and giving to you today?

The Basis of Choice

Nehemiah 7: ² I put in charge of Jerusalem my brother Hanani, along with Hananiah the commander of the citadel, because he was a man of integrity and feared God more than most people do.

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Fumbling through a book, I scratched my head teaching myself how to program computers. You would think I already knew what I was doing since that is what they hired me for. Little by little I picked up my craft, but I wasn’t very productive. I showed up to work early and stayed late trying to figure things out.

I thought I was going to be fired when the big boss pulled me in his office. “Can you handle the work?” he asked me. “Yes, I believe so” was my reply. “Great, we are going to give you more responsibility. We are going to send you to get trained and you will have more to do.”

• Looking back I see that I was not always ready.
• Looking back I see that I was not always equipped.
• Looking back I see that I was not always confident in my abilities.

I had no experience, no proof and no excuse on my first job out of college. Everything just worked out the way it worked out. I was at a place where I was over my head and didn’t know what to do. BUT GOD knew what HE was doing.

• GOD watched over me when I wasn’t the best choice.
• GOD watched over me when I did not know what I was doing.
• GOD watched over me when I was faced with something huge.

The big boss took a chance on me by giving me more responsibility, training and a mentor. Years later I brought this lesson with me and took a chance on the unlikely and GOD made it work tremendously time and time again.

• Why are you choosing that person?
• Are you and they fearing GOD rather than fearing your situation?
• Is it more important to be obedient to GOD rather than getting your way?
• Can you prayerfully take a chance on that person knowing it will be harder and require more patience?

Half-Hearted Effort

2 Chronicles 31: ²⁰ This is what Hezekiah did throughout Judah, doing what was good and right and faithful before the Lord his God. ²¹ In everything that he undertook in the service of God’s temple and in obedience to the law and the commands, he sought his God and worked wholeheartedly. And so he prospered.

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“I wonder how long this guy will last?” was the snippy question that crossed my mind as the new boss rolled in. He talked a lot about credentials so I ignored him and his commands. Anything he told me to do, I did it halfheartedly.

I mean the task was completed but “just enough” rather than excellent. His boss watched my halfhearted efforts and said to me, “you still have to work here even if he leaves.”

• Sometimes I do things halfheartedly.
• Sometimes my motivation is low and I don’t give full effort.
• Sometimes I do just enough to say it’s done rather than seeking what needs to be done.

When I started putting my whole heart into something I could actually see things change. I didn’t really care about the promotions and the spoils, rather I was focused on doing whatever I was doing, with excellence. GOD saw this.

• Whenever I worked heard and gave GOD credit, I was blessed tremendously.
• Whenever I had a huge task in front of me and asked GOD to remove the mountain, I have been blessed tremendously.
• Whenever I included GOD in my plans I have been blessed tremendously.

GOD wants my whole heart. This includes my fears, doubts and worries along with my excitement, drive and ambitions. HE wants me to see HE can handle it all and I can stand still and see the salvation of the LORD.

• Are you serving GOD halfheartedly?
• Have you run out of gas serving GOD?
• Can you change the focus of serving GOD from getting something from HIM to simply serving?
• Won’t you dedicate all your efforts to HIM today?

Growing Up

2 Kings 2:⁹ When they had crossed, Elijah said to Elisha, “Tell me, what can I do for you before I am taken from you?”

“Let me inherit a double portion of your spirit,” Elisha replied.

¹⁰ “You have asked a difficult thing,” Elijah said, “yet if you see me when I am taken from you, it will be yours—otherwise, it will not.”

¹¹ As they were walking along and talking together, suddenly a chariot of fire and horses of fire appeared and separated the two of them, and Elijah went up to heaven in a whirlwind. ¹² Elisha saw this and cried out, “My father! My father! The chariots and horsemen of Israel!” And Elisha saw him no more. Then he took hold of his garment and tore it in two.

¹³ Elisha then picked up Elijah’s cloak that had fallen from him and went back and stood on the bank of the Jordan.¹⁴ He took the cloak that had fallen from Elijah and struck the water with it. “Where now is the Lord, the God of Elijah?” he asked. When he struck the water, it divided to the right and to the left, and he crossed over.

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Graduation had come and gone. As I stuffed ALL of my belongings in my car, I realized, “I am on my own.” I mean my parents used to tell me what to do, and then the university had my schedule pretty much locked up. But now, I had to figure things out myself.  “How am I going to do this?” I thought.

• GOD knows the unknown for which I’m walking.
• GOD holds my future.
• GOD executes HIS plan and has great thoughts for me.

Elisha asked for special gifts and abilities but was unsure that he received them. I can imagine how he felt when the person who was performing miracles was whisked away in a whirlwind. He probably felt like asking “Now what?” That’s the way my life is. I have started many new chapters and the script is never written for me. BUT GOD’s plan is awesome.

• GOD wants me to succeed.
• GOD wants me to be thoroughly blessed.
• GOD wants me to grow in HIM, trusting HIS ways and believing in HIS future.

The answer to “Now what” is an exciting adventure if I’m willing to accept the road of faith.

• Are you unsure of your future?
• Do you think GOD has left you?
• Can you start walking and let GOD guide your steps?
• Won’t you add TRUST and FAITH to your daily walk and let go of having to know everything?

GOD wants to bless you

Deuteronomy 28: If you fully obey the Lord your God and carefully follow all his commands I give you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations on earth. ² All these blessings will come on you and accompany you if you obey the Lord your God:

³ You will be blessed in the city and blessed in the country.

⁴ The fruit of your womb will be blessed, and the crops of your land and the young of your livestock—the calves of your herds and the lambs of your flocks.

⁵ Your basket and your kneading trough will be blessed.

⁶ You will be blessed when you come in and blessed when you go out.

⁷ The Lord will grant that the enemies who rise up against you will be defeated before you. They will come at you from one direction but flee from you in seven.

⁸ The Lord will send a blessing on your barns and on everything you put your hand to. The Lord your God will bless you in the land he is giving you.

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When I looked at this chapter it had wonderful blessings GOD has promised. I was extremely excited until I read the rest of the chapter where is says quite the opposite of the blessings. If I do not follow the LORD’s commands HE will do the opposite of HIS promises.

If I don’t follow GOD:

⁶³ Just as it pleased the Lord to make you prosper and increase in number, so it will please him to ruin and destroy you.

If I don’t follow GOD:

⁶⁶ You will live in constant suspense, filled with dread both night and day, never sure of your life.

If I don’t follow GOD:

⁶⁷ In the morning you will say, “If only it were evening!” and in the evening, “If only it were morning!”

This tells me GOD doesn’t play with HIS commands.  I am forgiven through HIS SON, yet HE somehow wants me to follow HIS commands out of love, not just obedience.

• Do you want a blessing?
• Are you stubbornly holding onto something you need to release?
• Won’t you follow what GOD wants you to do today?

Want a blessing today?

Deuteronomy 15: ¹⁰ Give generously to them and do so without a grudging heart; then because of this the Lord your God will bless you in all your work and in everything you put your hand to. ¹¹ There will always be poor people in the land. Therefore I command you to be openhanded toward your fellow Israelites who are poor and needy in your land.

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Sitting in the “counselors” chair a homeless person sat across from me and had to hear the “Gospel of CHRIST” from me. He wreaked of booze but was coherent enough to answer my questions. During our anticipated and somewhat robotic conversation it dawned on me… I wasn’t getting through to him so I asked those in charge, “Do we really have to give this guy some food?”

• When I serve with a grudging heart, I am not at my best.
• When I give out of obligation I hurl my money at the need in a tantrum.
• When I expect a monetary blessing because I have served, I may be on the road to manipulation instead of gratitude.

Poor people will always be around me GOD says. HE wants to bless me, but sometimes I see what this person is going to do with “my” money and I become the judge and jury and provide a verdict that is not favorable for the person standing in front of me. I mean this person is a drunk and that person is a drug addict and that person won’t stop being whatever they are being. I mean shouldn’t “my” money go to someone who “deserves” it?

• GOD says to me “judge not and I won’t judge you.”
• GOD says to me “look beyond the messy person I delivered to you and give them your best.”
• GOD says to me “I know you are weary from giving but my grace is sufficient.”

Sometimes it’s hard to give because I am either not seeing the change I want to see fast enough or the ocean of people seems too great for “my” power. I may feel overwhelmed because the need seems too great. BUT GOD says to me “do what you can with what I have blessed you with for I have many servants.”

I must trust that GOD has plenty and that I am only one of many distribution points for HIS wealth. Yes, the wealth is not mine but HIS and HE wants to do with it as HE pleases.

• Are you giving with a grudging heart?
• Are you serving out of expectation from GOD?
• Can you give and serve without expecting something from GOD?
• Won’t you trust that HE will bless you the way HE wants to bless you, when HE wants to bless you?