Blind Desire

Blind Desire

Genesis 34: Now Dinah the daughter of Leah, whom she had borne to Jacob, went out to see the daughters of the land. ² And when Shechem the son of Hamor the Hivite, prince of the country, saw her, he took her and lay with her, and violated her. ³ His soul was strongly attracted to Dinah the daughter of Jacob, and he loved the young woman and spoke kindly to the young woman. ⁴ So Shechem spoke to his father Hamor, saying, “Get me this young woman as a wife.”

 

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Dinah was trying to accept the move, so she went to meet the Hivite women Isaac and Rebekah despised. Shechem the son of the ruler Hamor and who the city was named after, saw how beautiful Dinah was and violated her. He loved Dinah and spoke kindly to her. He demanded that Hamor get Dinah as his wife.

 

My Observations:

• Shechem saw what he wanted and took what he wanted.
• Shechem may have been in love with Dinah, but had no consideration for her feelings.
• Shechem tried to sweet talk Dinah into wanting to be with him, but that may not have been working, so he demanded his father to force her to be his wife.

 

When the desire to have something that does not belong to a person is there, bad decisions are made. Shechem wanted something and felt he could take it instead of allowing the relationship to blossom naturally. Shechem was dangerous because he could run and tell people who supported his every move, that he wanted what he wanted and that’s the way it is. The town was named “Shechem!”

 

It isn’t just about power. We want what we want and see things from a “me” perspective like Shechem. His desire would cause a lot of people to be hurt because he took what he wanted without a drop of humility. Another mess happened. GOD saw the mess.

 

Challenge

• Why did GOD tell Moses about what Shechem did to Dinah and how he reacted?
• Have you ever wanted something so badly, that all decisions are made from getting that thing?
• Are you willing to ask GOD to change your desire into HIS desire instead of steering HIM into getting your way?

Spiritual Awakening

Spiritual Awakening

Genesis 3: ⁶ So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, that it was ^]pleasant to the eyes, and a tree desirable to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate. She also gave to her husband with her, and he ate. ⁷ Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together and made themselves coverings.

 

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Belief in the lie Satan told and implied and inferred, caused the woman to innocently want more than she already had. She wanted to be “wise.” She did not know what she was missing, but, for some reason, felt she was missing something. The lie worked! Her husband was right there. He too was curious about what would happen. He had never seen death and probably wondered what it was.

 

My Observations:

• Both man and woman could physically see so the “eyes” here are spiritual eyes that provides awareness.
• Shame seemed to be the first thing they experienced when they became aware.
• Everything became different from both of their perspectives.

 

Feeling inadequate or different or ashamed came from something seemingly innocent, namely eating. Humans compare sins like murder, adultery, or lying and label them as “big” sins. But eating something from GOD’s tree took down all of humanity! One bite doomed all humans to death. Satan had won, or so he thought. He didn’t know that GOD had already made a plan for the fall.

 

GOD never changed in the situation. HE was still GOD, but now the relationship with HIS creation was spiritually different. They would now see HIM as someone to question or blame or doubt. No longer was anything HE made,  “good” enough. They would try to make their own solutions to problems that did not exist.  Fortunately GOD knew how to fix this.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think GOD went into detail to Moses, regarding the woman’s desire to be “wise?”
• Have you ever wanted something that was possibly not good for you, yet you wanted it more and more?
• Will you give your desires to GOD and ask HIM to align them to HIS will today?

Thirsty

Thirsty

Revelation 21: ⁵ Then the one who sits on the throne said, “And now I make all things new!” He also said to me, “Write this, because these words are true and can be trusted.” ⁶ And he said, “It is done! I am the first and the last, the beginning and the end. To anyone who is thirsty I will give the right to drink from the spring of the water of life without paying for it. ⁷ Those who win the victory will receive this from me: I will be their God, and they will be my children. ⁸ But cowards, traitors, perverts, murderers, the immoral, those who practice magic, those who worship idols, and all liars—the place for them is the lake burning with fire and sulfur, which is the second death.”

 

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Becoming part of a group was new to me. I was handed a book that showed skills to learn. But then I was told that that I could earn merit badges if I could prove that I learned the skill! I tried it and earned my first merit badge.

 

• I got so excited that I read more of the book.
• I planned out what my next badge would be.
• I spent time learning more and more and then became good at what I learned.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, heard JESUS speak a declaration that could be trusted and was going to happen. JESUS spoke about two kinds of people. One was “thirsty” and the other was not.

 

My Observations:

• My thirst for JESUS would cause me to want to learn more about HIM.
• My thirst for JESUS would make me want to practice what HE said.
• My thirst for JESUS would open my eyes to what HE wants versus trying to get “my” way.

 

Thirsty means really, really wanting something. I mean, when I want something the world has to offer, I may spend time learning it from reading or watching someone. I then take the initiative to put what I learned into practice. JESUS says HIS “words are true and can be trusted.” In other words, it’s going to happen.

 

If I thirst for JESUS, then my learning will be easy and so will putting what I learned into practice. HIS message of love also came with a price, namely free! If anyone is thirsty for JESUS, HE will give him or her life without paying for it. All my sins have been paid for by JESUS. I am eternally grateful!

 

Challenge

• Why was the writer told to write down what was said?
• Have you ever wanted something so much, that you were willing to learn it and do it?
• When JESUS says “It is done!” does that give you confidence?
• Can you become thirsty to learn about JESUS and put HIS words into practice today?

No Bribes Accepted

No Bribes Accepted

1 John 2: ¹⁵ Do not love the world or anything that belongs to the world. If you love the world, you do not love the Father. ¹⁶ Everything that belongs to the world—what the sinful self desires, what people see and want, and everything in this world that people are so proud of—none of this comes from the Father; it all comes from the world. ¹⁷ The world and everything in it that people desire is passing away; but those who do the will of God live forever.

 

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Being teased about my tattered clothing got old. “One day I will have enough money to buy my own clothes” I muttered to myself. I got a job and made enough to buy the latest trend. I got another job and was able to buy more stuff and bigger things.

 

I admired where I had gotten to.. “Can you send out a message about GOD?” someone asked me. “No! I have a title that does not align to that sort of message.”

 

• I found myself with no time to serve GOD.
• I enjoyed the lavish vacations, large houses and immense amounts of money I was given.
• I justified why I did not have time for GOD and figured HE would simply forgive me and I could live it up here on earth.

 

John attempted to open the spiritual eyes of those who follow JESUS. He took away any excuse by including “anything” and “everything” to his warning. He focused on some broad topics that included selfish desires, envy, jealousy, lust, and pride, of which do not come from GOD.

 

My Observations:

• Satan attempted to bribe JESUS with food, power and money, BUT JESUS refused because HE had to die for the sins of all of humanity.
• Satan wants you and me to not speak about GOD, or to view those who do in a negative way.
• “Anything” and “everything” that keeps me from speaking about JESUS should not be a desire of mine.

 

Trying to save myself causes me to lose myself. I mean, when I try to acquire more of what the world has to offer, I end up losing my relationship with GOD. The scary thing is, GOD will allow me to walk away from HIS love, because HE does not want to force the relationship.

 

GOD has a desire that all humans become saved. HE wants you and me to proclaim the Good News about JESUS, who was resurrected to overcome the world. Houses, cars, clothes, jewelry, gadgets, titles and accomplishments will pass away. I am glad GOD’s love will last forever in my life.

 

Challenge

• Is the news from the writer extreme to you?
• What would you keep if you, knowingly, would walk away from GOD by keeping it?
• Will you turn your eyes to GOD and have HIM open up your heart to desire HIS will over yours today?

Humble Friendship

 

Humble Friendship

James 4: Where do all the fights and quarrels among you come from? They come from your desires for pleasure, which are constantly fighting within you. ² You want things, but you cannot have them, so you are ready to kill; you strongly desire things, but you cannot get them, so you quarrel and fight. You do not have what you want because you do not ask God for it. ³ And when you ask, you do not receive it, because your motives are bad; you ask for things to use for your own pleasures. ⁴ Unfaithful people! Don't you know that to be the world's friend means to be God's enemy? If you want to be the world's friend, you make yourself God's enemy. ⁵ Don't think that there is no truth in the scripture that says, “The spirit that God placed in us is filled with fierce desires.”^[a] 6 But the grace that God gives is even stronger. As the scripture says, “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.”

 

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Frustrated because it seemed like “everyone” else was getting paid but me, left me complaining about what I did not have. I had just started going back to church and I heard the preacher say “name it and claim it.” In other words say what I want and I will get it. But when I didn’t get it, I got mad.

 

• I was mad at GOD because I did not get what I wanted.
• I thought GOD was supposed to give me what I wanted.
• I thought that I “deserved” better than what I already had.

 

James addressed selfishness by illustrating two friendship types. One friendship is with the world, the other is with GOD. He exposes the root of quarrels and fights, namely friendship with the world. He points out the fact that wrong motive causes a lack in receiving from GOD.

 

My Observations:

• The more I become friends with the world, the more I fight over its pleasures.
• GOD resists my pride, but loves when I humble myself before HIM.
• GOD’s desires are fierce and cannot be quenched by the selfishness of obtaining the world.

 

“What is it to gain the whole world and lose your soul?” is a deep, convicting question. I mean, insatiable desires that cannot be quenched or controlled causes me to think of GOD in the wrong way. I may think “I” deserve better when GOD has already provided so much for me.

 

HE loves when I can say “Thank YOU for what YOU have given to me, I have more than enough.” This keeps my insatiable appetite down to a minimum and my hatred for other people who may be “in the way of getting mine” diminishes. I am glad GOD is willing to give me grace when I humble myself.

 

Challenge

• What does the writer say about fights and quarrels?
• Have you ever wanted something and did not get it, so you cried or got mad at another person?
• Do you have a problem with wanting more and more to the point that GOD is no longer the answer?
• Will you ask GOD to open your eyes to HIS true grace so HE can guide you to the things HE wants you to have today?

Fulfilled

 

Fulfilled

2 Thessalonians 1: ¹¹ That is why we always pray for you. We ask our God to make you worthy of the life he has called you to live. May he fulfill by his power all your desire for goodness and complete your work of faith. ¹² In this way the name of our Lord Jesus will receive glory from you, and you from him, by the grace of our God and of the Lord Jesus Christ.

 

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Life had gotten hard during this stretch of time. My car was barely working, I had debt up to my ears and barely enough income to pay monthly bills. I watched a commercial of people winning large sums of money by simply having a magazine subscription. I tried it, no payoff. I played the lottery in months to follow. I bought one ticket. Each number miraculously was off by one digit.

 

• I was jealous of someone “winning” money.
• I was frustrated that I had no money and no way to get out of debt, or so I thought.
• I wondered why “everyone else” seemed to be doing better than me.

 

Paul, Silas and Timothy provide a prayer for everyone who believes in JESUS as the Savior. They knew it is not possible for a human to be worthy of GOD’s calling, so they prayed for GOD to make them worthy. They also prayed for desires for goodness to be fulfilled by GOD and for everyone to complete their work of faith.

 

My Observations

• Life is more than money and GOD wants me to be fulfilled by desiring what HE thinks is good.
• Only GOD can declare me “worthy” of the life HE called me to.
• Tasks given to me by GOD require my work of faith.

 

Life is not easy. I mean, it seems when one challenge is over, another pops up. Why can’t things just be peaceful? But they are sometimes turbulent. GOD sees when I look at life on the surface and get worried. HE provides an answer.

 

GOD calls me to serve HIS people. Wait… Don’t I have problems? Yes, BUT GOD sees beyond my problems and knows the true reward HE is storing up for me in heaven. HE places the HOLY SPIRIT inside me to prompt me to desire goodness and to complete my work of faith. I am glad GOD cares enough for me to call me to do HIS work.

 

Challenge

• What are the writers praying about?
• Have you ever felt your life is unfulfilled?
• Will you ask GOD to guide your desires to HIS goodness so HE will give you a work of faith to do, so your life will be abundant and fulfilled today?

 

Prayer

Dear LORD, please bless this reader with a calling that is worthy to YOU. Bless him or her to be fulfilled by desiring YOUR goodness. Clear the path to help us complete our work of faith. amen

Special Delivery

Special Delivery

Philippians 4: ¹⁸ Indeed I have all and abound. I am full, having received from Epaphroditus the things sent from you, a sweet-smelling aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well pleasing to God. ¹⁹ And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. ²⁰ Now to our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.

 

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Looking in my mailbox, I received a note that was unusual for me. “Pick up your package at the front desk” it said. It did not have a return address so it was from someone in the dorm. It had gifts in it.

 

• I was delighted.
• I felt great receiving something unexpected.
• I did not know I needed what was in the package.

 

Paul received many care packages from the people in Philippi. While he was spreading the Gospel, they supported his needs with many packages. Epaphroditus was the delivery person who spent time keeping the packages safe.

 

My Observations

• GOD wants my heart open to become a supplier of needs.
• GOD sends me to deliver packages from others when I cannot provide them myself.
• GOD has plenty to give and HE wants me to be a distributor.

 

For many years I thought this passage was about getting stuff. I mean, GOD supplying all “Y” needs sounds cool. But it seems like the sweet aroma to GOD was from those who gave or supported people who were spreading the Gospel. Giving is often overlooked in this passage because I usually want more.

 

Having enough is a strange concept. It means I am thankful for the little I have. It also means I can give someone some of what I have and GOD will be pleased. I gladly will become a delivery person when I don’t have much to give but when I  do, I will give to those in need.

 

Challenge

• What aroma does the writer speak of?
• What needs do you have?
• Will you supply someone’s needs today or become a delivery person if you have nothing to give?

Called to Hope

Called to Hope

Ephesians 1: ¹⁸ I ask that your minds may be opened to see his light, so that you will know what is the hope to which he has called you, how rich are the wonderful blessings he promises his people, ¹⁹ and how very great is his power at work in us who believe. This power working in us is the same as the mighty strength ²⁰ which he used when he raised Christ from death and seated him at his right side in the heavenly world. 

 

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Needing cash, I thought of a plan. I would buy a lottery ticket, win and all my troubles would be over. I bought one ticket and waited for the weekly numbers to be announced. All of the numbers I selected were either one number higher or lower than the chosen. What are the odds?

 

• I had lost hope and wanted a quick fix.
• I prayed over the lottery ticket and did not win.
• I was reminded that my hope should be greater than money.

 

Paul writes a request to the LORD on behalf of the people . He wants everyone to have their mind opened by the HOLY SPIRIT to be enlightened to the “hope” GOD has called us to.

 

My Observations

• GOD’s hope is far greater than me being rich and powerful.
• Spreading GOD’s hope is valuable to HIM.
• Believing in JESUS gives me access to the same power that raised HIM from the dead.

 

Hope can be fleeting when placed in money, jobs, people or something other than GOD. I mean, even when I get money or a job or a group of people, all of these things change and sometimes have issues. BUT GOD is still there.

 

GOD is far greater than coping or getting a few dollars. HE has promises that can never be taken away. HIS power is unmatched and blessings are rich. HE opens the eyes to those who believe, so they may see HIS light and hope HE has called them to. I am grateful for HIS power and place my hope in HIM.

 

Challenge

• What things is the writer asking for?
• Have you ever lost your hope?
• Will you know that it is alright to acknowledge how hurt you have been and ask GOD to open your eyes to HIS rich and wonderful blessings for you that are far greater than anything the world has to offer?

Clear Example

 

Clear Example

1 Corinthians 10: I want you to remember, my friends, what happened to our ancestors who followed Moses. They were all under the protection of the cloud, and all passed safely through the Red Sea. ² In the cloud and in the sea they were all baptized as followers of Moses. ³ All ate the same spiritual bread ⁴ and drank the same spiritual drink. They drank from the spiritual rock that went with them; and that rock was Christ himself. ⁵ But even then God was not pleased with most of them, and so their dead bodies were scattered over the desert.

 

⁶ Now, all of this is an example for us, to warn us not to desire evil things, as they did, ⁷ nor to worship idols, as some of them did. As the scripture says, “The people sat down to a feast which turned into an orgy of drinking and sex.” ⁸ We must not be guilty of sexual immorality, as some of them were—and in one day twenty-three thousand of them fell dead. ⁹ We must not put the Lord to the test, as some of them did—and they were killed by snakes. ¹⁰ We must not complain, as some of them did—and they were destroyed by the Angel of Death.

 

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Wanting to fit in, I paid attention to the technique. I wanted to get the movement right for when I did it. The thug saw me looking and motioned a hush finger over his lips. When the unsuspecting guy was going to sit down, he would snatch the chair away. Unfortunately his prey hit his head on the desk behind.

 

• There have been many times when I saw bad examples and got straightened out.
• There have been many times when I saw someone else do the wrong thing and I stayed away from doing the same.
• There have been many times when I saw the consequences of doing the wrong thing, so I avoided it.

 

Paul points out that obedience is not enough. Many people did as they were told, but what was really in their heart was to fulfill their every lust and complain when things were not going as they wished. These people were killed and never made it into the promised land.

 

• GOD wants me to obey but also to do it with a heart given to HIM.
• GOD wants me to follow HIS rules, but do it because I want to be with HIM versus manipulating HIM.
• GOD wants me to praise HIM versus complaining about where I am in the trial.

 

Sometimes the examples don’t seem fair. I mean, I can’t even complain? No. In fact, the more I look at GOD’s word, the more I realize I act like Satan when I complain. He was not satisfied with GOD being GOD so he vowed to take over and do things better.

 

GOD tossed him out of heaven for trying to get his way. GOD wants me to align my desires with HIS and put my trust in HIS hands. I am glad HE gives me mercy so I can praise HIM another day.

 

• Do you have a complaint against GOD?
• Are you going through a trial and are blaming GOD?
• Will you heed the warnings and turn your complaints to true praise for all HE has done for you today?

All About Service

All About Service

1 Corinthians 7: ⁸ Now, to the unmarried and to the widows I say that it would be better for you to continue to live alone as I do. ⁹ But if you cannot restrain your desires, go ahead and marry—it is better to marry than to burn with passion.

 

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“Let’s tryout for track” my friend said. My high school track career was not illustrious, but I went to the meeting anyway. “We will meet to run at 5:30 AM and then we practice in the evening” were the words of dedication I could not follow. I did not join the team and I felt pretty good that I didn’t./

 

• There have been times when I knew I did not have the dedication to do something.
• There have been times when I did not have the desire to be what a certain group wanted me to be.
• There have been times when I chose to place my passions elsewhere.

 

Paul implies that single people can dedicate themselves to the LORD easier than married people. Marriage requires an additional person to think about and the ministry is always affected. His instruction is not about staying single versus getting married. He is simply pointing out to chose the level of service based on self-control. If sexual desire will get in the way of true service, it is better to get married.

 

• GOD wants me to be dedicated to HIS service.
• GOD wants me to choose HIS way or no other way.
• GOD wants me to seek HIS Kingdom first, then HE will guide my desires.

 

It is all about GOD. I mean, all my decisions should be based on my ability to honestly serve the LORD. If I will “burn” with desire, it is better to not be in that ministry the way I am approaching it. I can still serve, but I must do it in a way that will not cause me to fall into sin. I am glad GOD accepts my service when I give it to HIM.

 

• Are you trying to serve “your way” and find yourself “burning” to do it another way?
• Do you see your complaints you are placing before the LORD?
• Will you seek to adjust how you serve and allow GOD to accept you based on your real desires versus trying to force your service into some way you think you should be?

Daydreaming

 

Daydreaming

Romans 8: ⁵ Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. ⁶ The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace. ⁷ The mind governed by the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so. ⁸ Those who are in the realm of the flesh cannot please God.

 

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Hearing the conversation about cars made me know I was in the wrong league. One guy had just bought a car worth more than my house. After the conversation I was content to drive away in my rusty car. But later, I sat at my desk wondering how I could make more money. Maybe I should day trade or invest. I started dreaming of wealth more and more.

 

• Many times I put my mind on what I desired.
• Many times I sat with my mind fixed on what was in my heart.
• Many times I pondered how “good” life would be if I would just have…

 

Paul explains an enemy that is not the devil rather the mind. Though Satan caused humanity to ultimately fall and desire sin, humans still have a choice. Paul explains that choice. Those who live with their minds fixed on any lust cannot have their minds on things that please GOD.

 

• GOD wants me to seek HIS ways daily.
• GOD wants me to know my weaknesses and give them to HIM.
• GOD wants me to ask HIM to guide my thoughts, for only HE knows my heart.

 

Without GOD, all dreams are worthless. I mean, any dream I have should include what GOD wants, otherwise I will find myself in a losing fight against GOD. If I really want that material thing and do not get it, I pout at GOD and question HIS existence.

 

GOD hates when I back HIM in a corner and question HIS love that HE so generously gave to me. BUT HE is patient enough to guide me back to HIM and to allow me to pray for daily forgiveness. HE sets my mind on HIS people who need HIS SON for HIS salvation. I am grateful GOD intervenes in my mind.

 

• What are you worried about?
• What do you dream about most of the day?
• Will you ask GOD to set your mind on what HE wants rather than trying to get your desires fulfilled today?

Origin of Wanting

 

Origin of Wanting

Romans 7: ⁷ What shall we say, then? Is the law sinful? Certainly not! Nevertheless, I would not have known what sin was had it not been for the law. For I would not have known what coveting really was if the law had not said, “You shall not covet.” ⁸ But sin, seizing the opportunity afforded by the commandment, produced in me every kind of coveting. For apart from the law, sin was dead.

 

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For a while, the words “Don’t do that” meant something. I stayed away from “that.” But then I heard people who did “that.” They made “that” sound good. In fact, they teased me for not doing “that” The crowd seemed to be doing it, now I wanted to do it. The Bible said “Don’t do it.” No that was all I could think about.

 

• When I am told what not to do, it seems like that’s all I want to do.
• When I am told something is forbidden, it seems like I want to know why it is forbidden.
• When I am told stay away from something pleasurable, it seems like I can only think of that pleasurable thing.

 

Paul continues his explanation of the Law. He says the Law is not sinful, rather it exposes sin. The sin inside each person, then sees what the Law says and wants to do the opposite. BUT GOD had a remedy.

 

• GOD placed HIS law in my heart so I would know I needed a Savior.
• GOD allowed HIS SON, who volunteered, to be blamed and murdered for the sins I committed.
• GOD raised HIS SON from the dead, overcoming any sinful craving I might have.

 

At birth, sin coerces through my veins. I want the things GOD does not want me to have. The more I am told, not to want “that” the more I want it. BUT GOD took a different approach. HE knew I would not want HIM, rather I would want the sin. JESUS, being GOD, died for me.

 

“There… now sin no longer holds you.” Now that I am freed from the consequence of sin, I am grateful. This gratefulness gives me the strength to say “not this time” to the sin. My craving to do what GOD says increases with each “no” I speak to sin. I am glad JESUS mad a way out of my sin.

 

• Do you want something that you know is not good for you?
• Are you acting a way you know you should not act?
• Will you stop beating yourself up and be thankful JESUS has released you from all guilt and shame, so you can receive HIS peace today?

Desire Backfire

Desire Backfire

Acts 14: ¹¹ When the crowd saw what Paul had done, they shouted in the Lycaonian language, “The gods have come down to us in human form!” ¹² Barnabas they called Zeus, and Paul they called Hermes because he was the chief speaker. ¹³ The priest of Zeus, whose temple was just outside the city, brought bulls and wreaths to the city gates because he and the crowd wanted to offer sacrifices to them.

¹⁴ But when the apostles Barnabas and Paul heard of this, they tore their clothes and rushed out into the crowd, shouting: ¹⁵ “Friends, why are you doing this? We too are only human, like you. We are bringing you good news, telling you to turn from these worthless things to the living God, who made the heavens and the earth and the sea and everything in them. 

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Twelve forty five AM, I wanted to get a nap, so I went out to empty ash trays and pick up empty drink glasses left by the midnight bowling league. My coworker went missing and I did not want to be disturbed so I did his side.

With child labor laws being overlooked, the cashier allowed me to sleep for 15 minutes when there was a chance. When the boss came by, he saw that I could handle everything by myself. He fired the other guy. Now I had more work. I could not even finish my homework.

• Sometimes my desire drives my effort.
• Sometimes my effort does not match the result.
• Sometimes the result causes a different desire.

Paul, seeing the lame man, told him to walk and he did. This amazed everyone so much, that they called Paul and Barnabas gods. They bowed to them and offered sacrifices to them. When Barnabas and Paul heard of this they felt horrible. This was not the desired outcome.

• GOD wants me to point my life to HIM.
• GOD wants me to give HIM credit for everything that is done.
• GOD wants me to teach others to focus on HIM and not me.

Teaching someone about GOD is the best thing to do. But what happens when the person cannot stop looking at the teacher? GOD wants me to never desire a crowd following only me. HE wants me to show that they can go directly to the source if they believe in JESUS. I pray that many turn from me and follow JESUS who is the Savior.

• Do you desire followers?
• Are you trying to get attention?
• Will you stop trying to get the spotlight and allow GOD to be seen through your life so HE can get the glory today?

Urges

Urges

Acts:5 ¹⁷ Then the high priest rose up, and all those who were with him (which is the sect of the Sadducees), and they were filled with indignation, ¹⁸ and laid their hands on the apostles and put them in the common prison. ¹⁹ But at night an angel of the Lord opened the prison doors and brought them out, and said, ²⁰ “Go, stand in the temple and speak to the people all the words of this life.”

²¹ And when they heard that, they entered the temple early in the morning and taught. But the high priest and those with him came and called the council together, with all the elders of the children of Israel, and sent to the prison to have them brought.

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“Don’t go in that room while we are gone” was the statement given to me. I hadn’t thought about it before, but now that I had a restriction, I only wanted to go in “that” room. I thought of excuses for being in the room, but the door was closed most of the time.

One day, the door was left open. I put one foot in the room to test it out. Nothing happened. I went in boldly and became comfortable, too comfortable. They caught me in the room and I could not remember the “excuses” I made up.

• Sometimes I get urges that were prompted by someone telling me what I should not do.
• Sometimes I get urges to do something I am not supposed to do.
• Sometimes I get urges from something I was exposed to.

Fed up, the high priest and other church leaders had the apostles arrested. BUT GOD sent angels to release them, telling them to speak the “words of this life.” Early in the morning, they could not do anything else but teach.

• GOD wants me to seek HIM so my urges point to serving HIM.
• GOD wants me to listen to HIM so I desire to do what HE says.
• GOD wants me to accept HIS calling so I want what HE wants.

Urges can be great when pointed to GOD. I mean if I got the urge to speak to someone in an encouraging way, expressing GOD’s love, then HE would be extremely pleased. Unfortunately some of my urges come from places of temptation. Any follow through on those urges are against GOD.

Obedience to GOD makes me place my urges under HIM so I can exercise self-control and bear the fruit of the Spirit. I am grateful GOD leads me not into temptation but delivers me from evil.

• What urges are you following?
• Are you asking GOD “Should I be doing this” or acting on your own urges?
• Will you stop fighting GOD by not exercising self-control and present HIS gift of love through kindness and peace today?

Wanting

Wanting

John 20: ¹¹ But Mary stood outside by the tomb weeping, and as she wept she stooped down and looked into the tomb. ¹² And she saw two angels in white sitting, one at the head and the other at the feet, where the body of Jesus had lain. ¹³ Then they said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping?”

She said to them, “Because they have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid Him.”

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Turning over in the warm bed, I woke up with a strange thought. “Why am I so rested?” I glanced at the clock and realized I had overslept. “ now had ten minutes to get dressed and run to the bus. I grabbed my stuff and ran, hoping along the way. With only a few houses to pass, I could see the bus pull off. I would be late. It was raining.

• Sometimes I really want something.
• Sometimes I really desire to get what I want.
• Sometimes I really get upset when I do not get what I want, especially if it is not something “bad” for me.

Mary stood at the tomb weeping. She came to the tomb wanting to see a dead body. Maybe if she saw the dead body enough, she could let go. But there was a problem. JESUS was gone. Two angels asked Mary “Why are you weeping?” as if to say “What do you want?” Mary wanted a dead body.

• GOD wants me to want HIM.
• GOD wants me to believe in HIS mighty power.
• GOD wants me to place “my” wants in HIS hands so I can remain calm and get excited over HIS timing and the way HE does things.

Not knowing the big picture, sometimes “my wants” may be misguided. Let’s get back to the bus story. I decided to walk to catch my next connection, one mile away. When I arrived, someone who was driving to the school recognized me and gave me a ride. I arrived early.

Not every problem is a problem. Yes I do not like going through problems, but I have come to understand that something good comes on the other side. Mary would soon find out that she should not want a dead body, rather a risen Savior. I do not know what today brings but I want what GOD wants.

• What do you want?
• Do you desire for everything in your life to be smooth and without problems?
• Will you give your “wants” over to GOD and allow HIM to show you HIS plan HE has for you today?

Watery Excitement

Watery Excitement

John 7: ³⁷ On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. ³⁸ He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.” ³⁹ But this He spoke concerning the Spirit, whom those believing in Him would receive; for the Holy Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.

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“Can we go?” was my constant question I asked at every occasion. As the commercial played for the nearby amusement park, I added reason to my repetitious question. “Everyone else is going” I said in an effort to break through the barrier during dinner. When we finally went, I was elated! I told everyone within two blocks of my house, how amazing the experience was.

• Many times I craved something.
• Many times I wanted something so badly, I could not stop thinking about it.
• Many times I thirsted for something so much, it could not be quenched until I got it.

“If anyone thirsts, let him come to ME and drink”, JESUS said to the crowd after the feast. HE may have heard many desires of individuals as they sat and ate. Some of the desires could have been so deeply rooted, that the person could not stop talking about it. But what was driving the desire? JESUS had an answer.

• JESUS wants me to point my desires toward HIM.
• JESUS gave me the HOLY SPIRIT so I could live for HIM.
• JESUS desires that I crave HIM so I would speak about HIM daily.

Craving that everyone around me believes and accepts JESUS as their Savior, is what HE wants me to hold onto. HE wants me to be excited enough about HIM that I speak about the wonderful things HE has done for me. Out of my heart pours this watery excitement about how much JESUS actually loves me.

HE provides, guides and protects me because HE is excited about me. After requesting a lot “from” HIM, I finally I realized that maybe I should be excited enough “about” HIM, to speak lovingly “for” HIM. I love HIS love for me!

• What are you excited about?
• What do you talk about constantly?
• Will you be led by the HOLY SPIRIT today?
• Will you get excited about JESUS enough to speak about HIM to everyone HE provides to you?

Hunger

Hunger

John 6: ⁴⁷ Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me has everlasting life. ⁴⁸ I am the bread of life. ⁴⁹ Your fathers ate the manna in the wilderness, and are dead. ⁵⁰ This is the bread which comes down from heaven, that one may eat of it and not die. ⁵¹ I am the living bread which came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever; and the bread that I shall give is My flesh, which I shall give for the life of the world.”

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“Of course” was my answer to the question, “Do you want to work hard to get ahead in life?” I was hungry to live “the good life” and no one could stop me. “Of course” was my answer as I contemplated sex for the first time without being married. I mean, I really wanted to, and everyone around me had already done it. “Isn’t that concept old fashioned anyway?” I rationalized.

• There have been many things I have been hungry for.
• There have been many desires I have wanted to fulfill.
• There have been many times I pushed and pushed until I got what I wanted.

JESUS explains that HE is the bread of life. HE came down from heaven to save the world from eternal separation from HIS grace. HE points out that even though the Jew’s ancestors had all of their earthly needs met, they died anyway. Did they get what they wanted? Yes. But there was so much more.

• GOD wants me to understand that my entire existence is for HIM.
• GOD wants me to have my eyes opened to the fact that HE is the only reason for everything that I do.
• GOD wants me to be hungry for HIM every day.

Desires can get in the way of a great relationship with GOD. Each time I put my desires into action without asking GOD to guide them, I fail miserably. GOD has a spiritual plan for me that is manifested physically, emotionally, psychologically and philosophically.

HE knew I would never choose HIM so HE put a plan into action that could not fail. HE gave HIS own life for me. HE made my life simple. Believe in HIM and live. I am glad HE accepts me with my flaws.

• What are your desires?
• Do you crave something that you should be giving to GOD and allowing HIM to say “No” or “wait” or “yes” to?
• Will you stop thinking GOD is made for you and allow HIM to grow you into the fact that you are made for HIM?

Heartburn

Luke 24: ²⁸ As they approached the village to which they were going, Jesus continued on as if he were going further. ²⁹ But they urged him strongly, ‘Stay with us, for it is nearly evening; the day is almost over.’ So he went in to stay with them.

³⁰ When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. ³¹ Then their eyes were opened and they recognised him, and he disappeared from their sight. ³² They asked each other, ‘Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?’

³³ They got up and returned at once to Jerusalem. There they found the Eleven and those with them, assembled together ³⁴ and saying, ‘It is true! The Lord has risen and has appeared to Simon.’ ³⁵ Then the two told what had happened on the way, and how Jesus was recognised by them when he broke the bread.

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After hearing the speaker, I was moved to go on a missions trip. Everything inside of me said “Go.” I had never felt that way. It was all I could think about. My fear of being in another country reared its ugly head, but somehow it was superseded by a burning desire to spread the Great News of JESUS CHRIST.

• When GOD speaks to me, I can feel it inside.
• When GOD speaks to me, I can only think about HIM.
• When GOD speaks to me, I can see situations more clearly.

JESUS spoke to the two men with authority. Their hears burned from hearing the passionate words directly from CHRIST. HE disappeared when they recognized HIM, BUT HE had already lit an unquenchable fire in their souls. They went to tell the other disciples.

• GOD wants me to have fire for HIM.
• GOD wants me to preach HIS word no matter how difficult the situation may be.
• GOD wants me to not get weary, but to seek HIS kingdom and ask for a tiny bit of HIS grace.

“MY grace is sufficient for you, for MY power is made perfect in weakness” are the words GOD uttered to me this morning. These words burn inside of me as I get removed from using my power to “fix” situations. GOD’s word burns and the flames incinerate any kind of problem I could ever face. I place my total trust in GOD.

• Is GOD burning your heart?
• Do you feel led by GOD and HIS words are all you can think about?
• Will you allow HIS passion to lead you to a place of grace and power today?