No Math Needed

No Math Needed

Revelation 22: 18 I, John, solemnly warn everyone who hears the prophetic words of this book: if any add anything to them, God will add to their punishment the plagues described in this book. 19 And if any take anything away from the prophetic words of this book, God will take away from them their share of the fruit of the tree of life and of the Holy City, which are described in this book.

20 He who gives his testimony to all this says, “Yes indeed! I am coming soon!”

So be it. Come, Lord Jesus!

21 May the grace of the Lord Jesus be with everyone

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

Hearing the story about people enjoying themselves, I wanted to be included. I retold their story, implying that I was included. But when I was asked a question about the event, I could not answer.

• I felt embarrassed that I was not at the event, so I embellished the story.
• I added details to the story that were not true.
• I tried to make the story mine, when it wasn’t.

John, the disciple JESUS loved, concludes the book of amazing prophecies revealed to him by JESUS. He gave a stern warning to not add anything to the book or take anything away. No embellishments! He then gave a testimony of JESUS promising to return. John seemed to show value in this pending action and emphatically agreed.

My Observations:

• GOD had a reason for providing the prophesies and wants them to remain intact.
• JESUS seems to be preparing us for HIS imminent return, so HE gave us everything we need to know.
• I do not have to embellish something that is already amazing, so I place my full belief in what has been revealed.

Live life as if JESUS will return any moment, is what I get from reading this prophetic book. I mean, I still have to work to eat and do day to day things, BUT GOD wants me to be on the lookout for JESUS daily. What does that mean?

To me, it means seeing people HE wants me to serve for the purpose of bringing them back to HIM. HE also wants me to pray for those who seem to be rejecting HIM. GOD seems very serious about bringing the lost back to HIMSELF. I gladly join in on HIS plan.

Challenge

• What warning does the writer give?
• Have you ever embellished a story to make yourself look good or to make someone look bad?
• Will you read the Bible as a collection of books from GOD, written through humans, so HE could guide us to HIS love today?

Wash, Eat and Go

 

Wash, Eat and Go

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

 

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

 

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

 

I felt special.

I thought to myself “This is cool!”

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

 

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

 

My Observations:

Belief in JESUS “washes” my sins clean.

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

Challenge:

What rights are told to the writer?

What rights are withheld and who are they withheld from?

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

Nothing But Life

Nothing But Life

Revelation 22: The angel also showed me the river of the water of life, sparkling like crystal, and coming from the throne of God and of the Lamb ² and flowing down the middle of the city's street. On each side of the river was the tree of life, which bears fruit twelve times a year, once each month; and its leaves are for the healing of the nations. ³ Nothing that is under God's curse will be found in the city.

 

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

 

Driving down the road, I ran over a skunk carcass. For miles I could smell the horrible powerful stench of the dead animal. I ran through a puddle, yet the smell still lingered.

 

• I wished that I had not experienced the dead skunk.
• I wished I had not run over something that was dead and decaying.
• I would have preferred for all things that were alive to remain alive.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, was shown three things that provided life. One river and two trees were described as things that provided life. He also mentioned that the leaves would be used to heal the nations. Any sickness or disease that was under GOD’s curse would be healed by the things that provided life.

 

My Observations:

• GOD made us with life in mind.
• Eternal life will contain no sickness, no disease and no death.
• GOD’s eternal curse will not apply to those who love the LORD.

 

When GOD heals eternally, it will be done for good! I mean, there will be no more crying over a lost loved one, no more pain that keeps people awake and no more disease that causes bodies to malfunction. Why? Because JESUS paid it all.

 

JESUS was took on our curse. CHRIST redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us, for it is written: “Cursed is everyone who is hung on a pole.” HE was hung on a cross and gave us eternal life. I am grateful to receive living water that will make me never thirst again.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think the writer mention’s GOD’s curse?
• Have you ever gotten sick or hurt or experienced some sort of pain?
• Will you accept JESUS as your Savior so you can have everlasting life today?

No More Death, Grief, Crying or Pain

No More Death, Grief, Crying or Pain

Revelation 21: Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth. The first heaven and the first earth disappeared, and the sea vanished. ² And I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared and ready, like a bride dressed to meet her husband. ³ I heard a loud voice speaking from the throne: “Now God's home is with people! He will live with them, and they shall be his people. God himself will be with them, and he will be their God. ⁴ He will wipe away all tears from their eyes. There will be no more death, no more grief or crying or pain. The old things have disappeared.”

 

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

 

My shirt was missing, so I cried. This was a shirt that I stuffed with other shirts and I carried it around while sucking my thumb. That was the beginning. Over many years, there were circumstances that really made me cry.

 

• I have felt grief.
• I have cried over situations and with people.
• I have seen death and watched how pain  overtook joy.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, saw an incredible sight. He saw a new heaven and a new earth. He also saw the first heaven, earth and sea disappear. Just as GOD spoke everything into existence, it was all gone in a moment. He saw the Holy City descend from the new heaven. Then he heard a declaration that would never be broken.

 

My Observations:

• GOD will wipe away my tears.
• GOD will give me life forever.
• GOD will protect me from grief, crying or pain.

 

Imagine a world where there is no more scheming, greed, loss, hurt, malice, lying or disturbing thoughts. I cannot imagine, because that is what is in the world today. Each and every day, more pain is shown on the news and devastation abounds all around us. BUT GOD has a remedy.

 

JESUS rose and ascended to heaven. HE said HE had to go to make a place for all who believe in HIM. This new heaven and new earth contains everything that is needed, so there will be no more disappointment because of lack. GOD will be our GOD and we will be HIS people.

 

Challenge

• What exciting thing does the writer point out?
• Have you ever experienced a death of a loved one or grief or crying or pain?
• Can you set your mind on GOD wiping away all your tears because there will be no more death, grief, crying or pain?

Dead to Alive

Dead to Alive

Revelation 20: ¹¹ Then I saw a great white throne and the one who sits on it. Earth and heaven fled from his presence and were seen no more. ¹² And I saw the dead, great and small alike, standing before the throne. Books were opened, and then another book was opened, the book of the living. The dead were judged according to what they had done, as recorded in the books. ¹³ Then the sea gave up its dead. Death and the world of the dead also gave up the dead they held. And all were judged according to what they had done. ¹⁴ Then death and the world of the dead were thrown into the lake of fire. (This lake of fire is the second death.) ¹⁵ Those who did not have their name written in the book of the living were thrown into the lake of fire.

 

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

 

Seeing what seemed to be an ocean of people without homes, I decided to go another route. I only had enough in “my” wallet for “my” lunch. After a while, I was good at avoiding poor people. And besides, they were just going to take my money and use it to get drunk or buy drugs, right?

 

• I had figured out ways to not help the poor.
• I had justified why it was important for me to keep “my” money.
• I had labeled people in ways that made “me” feel good for not helping.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, saw the throne of JESUS. The sight was so incredible that Earth and heaven fled from HIS presence. John saw two sets of dead people, but only one set of books. The first set of dead were raised to “life” and the second set were raised to “death.”

 

My Observations:

• By believing in JESUS, all my deeds, will be replayed and I will be judged accordingly.
• For those who do not believe in JESUS as the Savior, even “good deeds” will be erased and counted against him or her.
• JESUS has a book of life that HE keeps and records the deeds we do that are precious to HIM.

 

“When did we feed YOU?” We will ask, JESUS will turn to a page and say “See, right here… When you gave that child a cup of water and some food.” “When did we clothe YOU?” we will ask. HE will flip to another page and say “See, its when you donated clothes.” JESUS cannot wait to show HIS people what they have done. Unfortunately HE also remembers what unbelievers have done.

 

HE will bring up all the deeds of those who manipulate, lie, cheat, harm and kill. These people will be thrown in the lake of fire with Satan, the beast and the false prophet. This “second death” will be an eternal death. I am glad you and me will be raised to an eternal life!

 

Challenge

• What deeds does the writer mention?
• Have you considered doing something good for someone, without desiring something in return?
• Have you given your life to CHRIST so your good deeds can be recorded as endearing to JESUS today?

No Seconds

No Seconds

Revelation 2: ⁸ “To the angel of the church in Smyrna write:

 

“This is the message from the one who is the first and the last, who died and lived again. ⁹ I know your troubles; I know that you are poor—but really you are rich! I know the evil things said against you by those who claim to be Jews but are not; they are a group that belongs to Satan! ¹⁰ Don't be afraid of anything you are about to suffer. Listen! The Devil will put you to the test by having some of you thrown into prison, and your troubles will last ten days. Be faithful to me, even if it means death, and I will give you life as your prize of victory.

 

¹¹ “If you have ears, then, listen to what the Spirit says to the churches!

“Those who win the victory will not be hurt by the second death.

 

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

 

After going through the storm of life, I sat in a daze. This particular storm was pretty harsh. Wounded and exhausted I said “Please don’t let another storm happen right now.”

 

• Life had dished out difficult stretch.
• Wave one of problems was enough.
• I don’t know how I could have survived another wave of problems like that.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, wrote his second warning of seven. This time it was to Smyrna. JESUS had no correction for this church. However, HE did say this church would suffer from religious persecution. John gave a perspective of death that is healthy for believers. There will be no “second” death to those who believe.

 

My Observations:

• Fearing death is natural, BUT GOD wants me to desire eternal life with HIM.
• Believers of JESUS will experience everlasting life if they die.
• Those who die without belief in JESUS as the Savior, will experience a second death that is eternal.

 

Eternal death is not only permanent, but never ending. Pain and suffering intensifies from one moment to the next. Meanwhile, those who have eternal life will experience no pain, no suffering and increasing reasons to praise!

 

GOD sees the suffering that you and I have gone through. HE stores up rewards in heaven where they cannot be stolen by the enemy. HE is excited to provide relief from life’s pressures, but HE wants us to remain until we find the last person to accept JESUS as the Savior.

 

Challenge

• What feeling does the writer write about?
• Have you ever felt oppressed or faced suffering for your belief in JESUS?
• Will you continue in your faith, even if persecution increases, knowing that GOD has you and you will not experience a second death, but will reap a wonderful harvest?

 

Eternal Family

Eternal Family

Jude 1: ¹ From Jude, servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James—

To those who have been called by God, who live in the love of God the Father and the protection of Jesus Christ:

 

² May mercy, peace, and love be yours in full measure.

 

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

 

Seeing the family as chess pieces, I wondered where I fit. I was the youngest and my siblings had moved on by the time I had questions about life. Was I on the side “for” or “against” the family? Was I a pawn or a rook? Please excuse the chess terms.

 

• I wondered where I fit in the family?
• I wondered if I was part of something or if I needed to fight what was established.
• I wondered if other families had it “better” than mine.

 

Jude, brother of JESUS, begins his letter in a somewhat awkward way. He recognized James as his brother and that he was a servant of JESUS. He did not mention his other two brothers, Joses and Simon. James wrote an epistle and so did Jude. Both recognized JESUS as the Savior and saw a different perspective of family.

 

My Observations:

• Families can be messy, BUT GOD welcomes all into HIS loving family.
• Families can have rivalries, fights and divisions, BUT GOD’s family includes love, peace and harmony.
• Families can have hurt, pain and poor affirmation management, BUT GOD showed HIS love to the extreme by allowing JESUS to die for us and being raised from the dead.

 

There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends, and that’s what JESUS did for you and me. HE became the solution to the biggest problem, namely all humans were lost. HE wanted us back in HIS family so HE did something about the problem. HE became a human and took all the blame humans can dish out.

 

HE then allowed HIMSELF to be murdered and was raised from the dead. HE now invites anyone to believe HE did all of this out of love. Unfortunately, many twist HIS actions and fall prey to the Enemy who wants people to remain blind to true love. I gladly accept HIS love and HIS invitation to join an eternal family.

 

Challenge

• Who does the writer address the letter to?
• Have you ever questioned where you fit within your own family?
• Will you join GOD’s eternal family that is filled with love and appreciation for you just as you are today?

Finding the Source

Finding the Source

1 John 5: ¹⁰ So those who believe in the Son of God have this testimony in their own heart; but those who do not believe God, have made a liar of him, because they have not believed what God has said about his Son. ¹¹ The testimony is this: God has given us eternal life, and this life has its source in his Son. ¹² Whoever has the Son has this life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life.

 

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

 

After returning from the hardware store for the third time, I was frustrated. I was trying to fix an electrical outlet, but my efforts were not working. I bought and returned two outlets, but neither of them were working. “Did you check to see if you are getting power to the outlet” the guy asked at the hardware store. While obvious, I just assumed it should have been connected. It wasn’t.

 

• My assumptions were wrong and would not fix the problem.
• My approach to the solution was wrong because it was based on a bad assumption.
• I was never going to make the outlet work, because it was not connected to the power source.

 

John clarifies eternal life. He makes it as plain as possible. “Whoever has the SON, has life; whoever does not have the SON of GOD does not have life.”

 

My Observations:

• Eternal life begins with this life.
• GOD made all beings eternal, however, some will eternally be separated from HIM and those who believe in HIS SON will eternally be inside of HIM.
• Eternal life is precious to GOD, so I must treat this life as special to HIM as well.

 

Scoffing at heaven or life after death or JESUS being the only way to have eternal life can be problematic. I mean, when I questioned the very existence of GOD, I was left without answered, only theories by, what humans called ‘smart people’, that could not be proven. BUT GOD had a clear way that made sense.

 

GOD, being made of pure love, not only created humans, HE became one and died for all sins so that those who believe in HIM may not perish, but have everlasting life. HIS actions were based on love for you and me. JESUS, who is GOD sis this out of love. The FATHER and the HOLY SPIRIT, painfully agreed so that you and I would not be lost. I gladly believe the JESUS loves me to this very day.

 

Challenge

• What is the testimony the writer speaks about?
• Have you ever wondered what happens to you and others when we die?
• Will you believe in JESUS as your Savior from being eternally separated from GOD and feeling pain, to being eternally with GOD and having no pain, no problems and no tears forever?

 

Rescue Plan

Rescue Plan

2 Peter 2: ⁴ God did not spare the angels who sinned, but threw them into hell, where they are kept chained in darkness, waiting for the Day of Judgment. ⁵ God did not spare the ancient world, but brought the flood on the world of godless people; the only ones he saved were Noah, who preached righteousness, and seven other people. ⁶ God condemned the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, destroying them with fire, and made them an example of what will happen to the godless. ⁷ He rescued Lot, a good man, who was distressed by the immoral conduct of lawless people. ⁸ That good man lived among them, and day after day he suffered agony as he saw and heard their evil actions. ⁹ And so the Lord knows how to rescue godly people from their trials and how to keep the wicked under punishment for the Day of Judgment, ¹⁰ especially those who follow their filthy bodily lusts and despise God's authority.

 

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

 

“You look miserable” someone said to me. I did not know it was showing on my face. The pressures of the position weighed heavily on me. Meanwhile, it seemed like some people, who I felt were cutthroat, were getting away with lies and manipulation.

 

• It seemed like there was no hope.
• It seemed like there would be no relief.
• It seemed like a good time to give up because powerful bullies were getting their way.

 

Peter goes into theology that most do not want to hear. He partially explains the wrath of GOD on those who are determined to do evil. He gives a few examples of how GOD takes sin seriously. But he also gives hope.

 

My Observations:

• I was lost in my many sins, BUT GOD gave me a gift which is eternal life through JESUS CHRIST our LORD.
• GOD saved me from all my sins, past, present and future.
• GOD’s authority is to be welcomed in my life so HE can correct me any time HE wants.

 

Falling down is not the problem, it is getting back up that is hard. I mean, when I fall to sin and it seems like my world is falling apart, at one time I had no place to turn. BUT GOD gave me a solution.

 

JESUS forgave me for my sins and gave me a COMFORTER who is willing to guide me daily. HE protects me from those who try to harm me, and HE protects me from myself. I am glad GOD has a rescue plan for me when thing look bleak.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer explain this side of GOD?
• Have you ever been in a miserable situation where it seemed like there was no way out?
• Will you turn your eyes to GOD’s love for you and accept HIS plan of rescue by believing in HIS SON JESUS, who volunteered to save you and me today?

Permanent Experience

Permanent Experience

2 Peter 1: ¹⁰ So then, my friends, try even harder to make God's call and his choice of you a permanent experience; if you do so, you will never abandon your faith. ¹¹ In this way you will be given the full right to enter the eternal Kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

 

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

 

Not sure that I wanted to be part of the organization, I went to the first meeting with skepticism. I sat through the presentation and they said I would need to meet twice a month, at night and sometimes on weekends. I could not commit the time.

 

• I wanted to simply be part of the organization without committing to it.
• I wanted to use the name of the organization but did not want to do all the work they wanted me to do.
• I wanted the temporary prestige of the organization without a permanent mindset.

 

Peter discussed something he failed at. He may have saw people wavering in their faith, so he provided a choice to follow GOD permanently or to stop faking it by being willing to abandon the faith. He denied JESUS and felt embarrassed. After JESUS restored Peter, he was able to preach about JESUS without abandoning his faith.

 

My Observations:

• When GOD chose to save me, it was eternal.
• GOD wants me to value my relationship with HIM and not be willing to leave HIM easily.
• Roadblocks, obstacles and hurdles will appear in life, BUT GOD wants me to keep my faith focused on HIM.

 

Many times I felt like giving up. I mean, it seems like trouble comes at inconvenient times when I am not ready. People get sick and hurt, stuff breaks and bank accounts dry up seemingly all at the same time. The first thought is to sin my way out of the trouble, but then I would end up in a worse situation. GOD has another way.

 

HE wants me to follow the example JESUS set. JESUS did not waver in HIS faith. HE stayed focus on HIS mission to die for the sins of mankind. HE wants me to live my life the same way as HE did. I have a choice to remain faithful to GOD or abandon HIM and follow my own path. I gladly choose GOD over my own choices.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer tell everyone to “try harder?”
• Have you ever felt like giving up because something did not happen in the time you expected?
• Have you considered abandoning your faith in GOD because things aren’t going as you expected?
• Will you consider making your relationship a “permanent experience” by letting go of this particular worry so you can praise GOD today?

Effective Forever

 

Effective Forever

Hebrews 10: ¹¹ Every Jewish priest performs his services every day and offers the same sacrifices many times; but these sacrifices can never take away sins. ¹² Christ, however, offered one sacrifice for sins, an offering that is effective forever, and then he sat down at the right side of God. ¹³ There he now waits until God puts his enemies as a footstool under his feet. ¹⁴ With one sacrifice, then, he has made perfect forever those who are purified from sin.

 

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

 

Rummaging through my parents garage, I found the perfect piece of wood to “repair” the seat of my car that would no longer stay upright. I figured I could shove this piece of wood in-between the upper and lower parts of the seat to keep the passenger from falling backwards. It worked! That is, until I hit a bump.

 

• My solution was temporary.
• My solution worked under certain conditions.
• My solution was not really a solution.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, spoke about the futility of the services of the priests. They would perform sacrifices that were symbolic and could never truly remove sins. People depended on this ritual with their lives, but it was ineffective.

 

My Observations:

• What JESUS did was effective forever.
• JESUS repaired the relationship between humans and GOD forever.
• GOD will one day put the enemy of sin under JESUS feet where it will do me no harm forever.

 

Satan’s pride of trying to be GOD caused major problems. I mean, he tried to tempt the first humans, Adam and Eve, into sinning. He enraged the Living GOD to the point where the earth was cursed and humans would struggle through life. BUT JESUS volunteered to do something about it.

 

HE sacrificed HIMSELF as the permanent solution. Sin no longer has the same effect of ripping me away from GOD forever. JESUS made it so I could be forgiven for my sins and to have a perfect loving relationship with HIM forever. I am glad JESUS’ solution was powerful enough to save me forever.

 

Challenge

• Can you sense the futility from the writer?
• Have you tried to please GOD by following the rules harder?
• Do you think GOD is harsh, mean and stubborn?
• Will you ask GOD to renew your mind and look at HIM in a different, caring and loving way today?

Purified Conscience

Purified Conscience

Hebrews 9: ¹¹ But Christ has already come as the High Priest of the good things that are already here. The tent in which he serves is greater and more perfect; it is not a tent made by human hands, that is, it is not a part of this created world. ¹² When Christ went through the tent and entered once and for all into the Most Holy Place, he did not take the blood of goats and bulls to offer as a sacrifice; rather, he took his own blood and obtained eternal salvation for us. ¹³ The blood of goats and bulls and the ashes of a burnt calf are sprinkled on the people who are ritually unclean, and this purifies them by taking away their ritual impurity. ¹⁴ Since this is true, how much more is accomplished by the blood of Christ! Through the eternal Spirit he offered himself as a perfect sacrifice to God. His blood will purify our consciences from useless rituals, so that we may serve the living God.

 

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

 

Wanting to serve the LORD was met with “Look at all the sinning you have been doing.” This battle was in my head and in my heart. I was trying to return to the LORD, but I felt my sins were too great.

 

• I did not feel “good” enough to serve the LORD.
• I did not feel “worthy” to serve the LORD in any way.
• I did not feel “secure” enough to know I am a sinner who is saved, therefore I let “my” sin get in the way.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, gives everyone some great news. “CHRIST has already come as the High Priest of the good things that are already here.” He then goes on to explain how JESUS was the perfect sacrifice, unlike “useless rituals” that would temporarily cleanse until the person sinned again.

 

My Observations:

• The Good News about JESUS has to remain “Good News” without the need for trying so hard.
• JESUS died for my sins and that makes my relationship with HIM permanent.
• By adding “useless rituals” onto JESUS’ death burial and resurrection, I am enslaving myself rather than being freed.

 

Feeling “not good enough” to serve the LORD is a major problem. I mean, believing that JESUS forgave me of all my sins should be enough, but sometimes I think there should be more. Perhaps I did something to make GOD mad or perhaps I said or did something wrong are the false thoughts that run through my mind. BUT GOD knows about this too.

 

HE took into account the fact that I would doubt HIS power to save me ultimately. HE knew I would try to jump in and start doing stuff to “prove” my worthiness to HIM. JESUS died for my doubt and for my trying to take control from HIM. HIS resurrection clears my conscience, knowing I am a sinner who serves the living GOD. I am glad JESUS took care of it “all!”

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer use the words “useless rituals?”
• Have you ever felt not good enough to serve GOD or to ask HIM for something?
• Will you consider that you are being lied to and that JESUS was raised from the dead and that is all you and I need for a perfect relationship that is full of power and authority because JESUS has it today?

Breadcrumbs

Breadcrumbs

Hebrews 9: The first covenant had rules for worship and a place made for worship as well. ² A tent was put up, the outer one, which was called the Holy Place. In it were the lampstand and the table with the bread offered to God. ³ Behind the second curtain was the tent called the Most Holy Place. ⁴ In it were the gold altar for the burning of incense and the Covenant Box all covered with gold and containing the gold jar with the manna in it, Aaron's stick that had sprouted leaves, and the two stone tablets with the commandments written on them. ⁵ Above the Box were the winged creatures representing God's presence, with their wings spread over the place where sins were forgiven. But now is not the time to explain everything in detail.

 

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

 

Having freshly learned a fable about someone dropping breadcrumbs on a path to find the way back home seemed like a good thing to pay attention to. In the fable the birds ate the breadcrumbs and the person was lost. I figured I would correct this flaw by remembering street names on my route versus temporary landmarks. It worked until the street signs were removed or the street was renamed.

 

• I had a false sense of security following a rule I made for myself.
• I was proud of myself for being able to follow “my” rule.
• I did not get lost and I felt pretty secure, until the street names changed or they were not listed or the sign was too small to read.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, lists parts of the covenant of the Law. He lists instructions given by GOD, that humans followed. Following these instructions were important, and were carried out by flawed humans.

 

My Observations:

• Something would be missed when the list of rules was long.
• Looking back at the breadcrumbs  of following the Law can give me a false sense of security.
• I needed something more permanent than looking at the holy acts, humans can do.

 

Following the Law feels good because I can measure it. I mean, I can tell when I am doing right or wrong, so I carry all the holy actions around with me. This seems like a good idea, but when life happens and I fall, I drop the holy items on the ground and soil them. BUT GOD cleanse me up.

 

HE has the real “inner sanctuary” that cannot be dropped on the ground and stolen by birds. HIS holy place remains holy and it can be found because HE is the one who seeks me. HE saves the lost and guides us back to HIM I am glad I no longer have to marvel over what was made or done by humans because I can focus on JESUS as my path.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer begin explaining the sacred tent?
• Have you ever felt better by trying to be holy or trying to follow the Law?
• Will you focus your mind on JESUS, who fulfilled the Law in a way that when you fall, HE forgives you today?

Preparing for Rest

 

Preparing for Rest

Hebrews 4: ⁸ If Joshua had given the people the rest that God had promised, God would not have spoken later about another day. ⁹ As it is, however, there still remains for God's people a rest like God's resting on the seventh day. ¹⁰ For those who receive that rest which God promised will rest from their own work, just as God rested from his. ¹¹ Let us, then, do our best to receive that rest, so that no one of us will fail as they did because of their lack of faith.

 

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

 

“There has got to be more to life than this” I thought to myself. I went to work, ran into a bunch of conversations that were exhausting, came back to my apartment and flopped on the couch. “Is this it?” “Am I going to do this the rest of my life?”

 

• I was living to work and working to live.
• I had fallen into a rut and could not see much purpose in what I was doing.
• I worked hard trying to live but I still ran into problems.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, compares the old covenant to the new. He mentions Joshua as a representative to the old covenant. If Joshua provided the rest that GOD promised, then there would be no need for another covenant. BUT GOD spoke of a different rest.

 

My Observations

• JESUS is my refuge in whom I place my trust.
• JESUS is who I can go to when I am not feeling rested.
• JESUS is my Savior and one day I will receive the rest promised to me.

 

After a trial, I feel relieved. I mean, I can breathe out and finally get rest from what I was worried about. This feeling also applies to following JESUS. As difficult as it is to live fore HIM, telling others about HIM and being an example for HIM, one day I will be with HIM to receive rest.

 

No more worries, no more troubles, no more fears, doubts or worries. Pure rest. This rest comes to those who believe that JESUS is the only one who can provide the rest. HE died for the sins of humanity and was raised from the dead. HE went to prepare a place for us so we can rest from the work we do for HIM today. I look forward to this rest and will continue my “work” until then.

 

Challenge

• What work is the writer referring to?
• Have you ever wanted some rest but could not find it?
• Will you place your trust in JESUS so HE will give you what HE promised, namely rest from being weary?

Promised Life

Promised Life

Titus 1: From Paul, a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ.

I was chosen and sent to help the faith of God's chosen people and to lead them to the truth taught by our religion, ² which is based on the hope for eternal life. God, who does not lie, promised us this life before the beginning of time, ³ and at the right time he revealed it in his message. This was entrusted to me, and I proclaim it by order of God our Savior.

⁴ I write to Titus, my true son in the faith that we have in common.

 

May God the Father and Christ Jesus our Savior give you grace and peace.

 

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

 

Getting mail was stressful to me. I had so many bills that I did not want to even get mail. I opened the notice and it met my fears. “We are going to turn off this service” was the news I expected and the news I got. “Is this all there is to life?” I cried out to GOD.

 

• I was tired of bills.
• I was tired of not having any money.
• I was tired of fearing the future, especially when I could not see a way out.

 

Paul opens his letter to Titus by describing his calling. He mentions that he was chosen by GOD to spread the Gospel which brings hope for eternal life. He did not mention the trials of this life, rather focused on being entrusted to speak about what was revealed to him, namely eternal salvation.

 

My Observations

• GOD will never lie to me.
• GOD said HE would always be with me and HE loves me.
• GOD wants me to speak about HIS kingdom so I can experience grace and peace in this life.

 

Grace and peace seem elusive when I worry about this life. I mean, when I focus on the scary parts of life, my mind wanders into areas out of my control. I fear the future and, as a result, blame GOD for not assuring me when I get worried. BUT GOD is not concerned.

 

HE knows the wonderful plan HE has for me, plans not to harm me but to give me hope. HE can see when I get tired or scared or feel like giving up. HE says to HIMSELF, “you don’t even know what great things I have in store for you.” I am glad GOD cares for me so much that HE was willing to die, just for me.

 

Challenge

• What hope is the writer speaking about?
• Have you ever got weary, tired or felt like giving up?
• Will you place your hope in JESUS today and know HIS plan for you includes this life as well as eternal life today?

All the News

All the News

Colossians 4: ⁷ Our dear friend Tychicus, who is a faithful worker and fellow servant in the Lord's work, will give you all the news about me. ⁸ That is why I am sending him to you, in order to cheer you up by telling you how all of us are getting along. ⁹ With him goes Onesimus, that dear and faithful friend, who belongs to your group. They will tell you everything that is happening here.

 

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

 

Blurting out “Didn’t we have a great time at the club last night?” seemed inappropriate in church, but that’s what the guy asked me. I was trying to live a double or triple life. One segment I appeared to be one way another segment I appeared a different way.

 

• I tried living a segmented life.
• I wanted to “have pleasure” and “have CHRIST” and “have money” even though sometimes they conflict with one another.
• I was embarrassed that one segment of my life was exposed to another.

 

Tychicus and Onesimus were dear friends of Paul. He mentions both in other letters in the highest regard. They observed his life and were witnesses to his actions in CHRIST. Paul had given up his life to follow CHRIST fully. To him, it was more profitable to follow the LORD.

 

My Observations

• My life was given to me by the LORD for HIS purpose.
• Any part of my life that I may be ashamed of will be exposed painfully or easily.
• GOD uses my life to be an example one way or another.

 

“All the news” is scary to me. I mean, it seems like a huge amount of pressure to be “good” when I am not. Only GOD is good and I could never live up to any expectation that others may place on me by following HIM. Fortunately GOD does not require “good” people to mention HIM.

 

GOD uses sinners like me to say “I am forgiven by JESUS for all my sins, past, present and future!” By believing in JESUS, I have hope. I can now bring hope to the hopeless. No matter how much I have messed up, GOD is there. I am glad “All the news” includes JESUS forgiving me.

 

Challenge

• What news do you think the writer is speaking about?
• Do you feel you do not measure up to other people or are not meeting the expectations of those who have given their life to the LORD?
• Will you let go of your life and place the burden of perfection on the only one who is, namely JESUS today?

No Chance Taken

No Chance Taken

Colossians 1: ¹³ He rescued us from the power of darkness and brought us safe into the kingdom of his dear Son, ¹⁴ by whom we are set free, that is, our sins are forgiven.

 

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

 

Wanting to get “my” way, I decided to “try” GOD. I had too many calamities going on and wanted some relief. I decided to act “good” so I took an inventory of what I thought was “bad.” I reduced my sin to no avail. More things were going wrong. “What do YOU want from me?” was my complaint.

 

• I was trying to manipulate GOD by being good.
• I thought I was in control of GOD.
• I used flawed logic by thinking GOD reacts to what I do.

 

Paul continues to explain why we should be thankful for GOD. By belief in JESUS, the FATHER rescued us from the power of darkness, brought us safe into the kingdom of JESUS and set us free by forgiving us of all our sins. GOD did it all.

 

My Observations

• When I think I have let GOD down by my sins, I must remember, HE forgave me of all my sins.
• When I think I can manipulate GOD by being “good” I must remember JESUS is the only one who is “good.”
• When I think GOD doesn’t love me or HE doesn’t care about this particular situation, I must remember, HE rescued me before I was even born.

 

We all want to be in control of our lives. I mean, I try hard to be “good” so things will go well with me. But what happens when I thought I was good and bad things happen anyway? I believe it means “bad things happen anyway and I am still supposed to believe that everything was taken care of for my salvation.

 

GOD did not leave it up to me to save me. HE knew I would not choose HIM, rather I would run after what the world thinks is right. HE made a way for me to be saved by giving us HIS one and only SON. I am glad I am forgiven for all my sins, even the sin of trying to manipulate GOD.

 

Challenge

• What are the things the writer is pointing out that are worthy of praise?
• Do you have to “feel” forgiven or know you are forgiven?
• What does “safe into the kingdom” mean to you?
• Will you know that GOD loves you dearly and has not taken a chance on losing you today?

Made Special

Made Special

Ephesians 3: ⁷ I was made a servant of the gospel by God's special gift, which he gave me through the working of his power. ⁸ I am less than the least of all God's people; yet God gave me this privilege of taking to the Gentiles the Good News about the infinite riches of Christ, ⁹ and of making all people see how God's secret plan is to be put into effect.

 

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

 

Doing an assessment of my skills, looks and accomplishments when I was insecure made me feel like I was not going to get anywhere soon. I saw people reach heights and overcome hurdles, yet I felt I had done nothing and was headed nowhere.

 

• I felt like I was insignificant.
• I compared myself to other people and felt bad about what I had done.
• I thought I was not special and had no gifts or talents.

 

Saul was zealous about GOD. He persecuted those who were not following the rules to the letter. He was given permission to have people killed. GOD called Saul to preach about the love of JESUS, and renamed him Paul, who wrote this letter. He stopped persecuting the church, lost his worldly title, became insignificant to humans and became special to GOD.

 

My Observations

• GOD sees me when humans do not.
• GOD made me special to reach those HE wants me to reach.
• GOD wants me to see that being HIS servant is a privilege.

 

Standing firm on the belief of JESUS can make anyone feel insignificant. I mean, the world praises celebrities, politicians, rich and powerful people. It sometimes seems like those who follow JESUS are the opposite of famous people. BUT GOD sees different.

 

When one person believes in JESUS there is incredible rejoicing in heaven! To the world, this seems insignificant, but to GOD, this means everything. HE stores up treasures in heaven for those who use their special gift to make people see HIS secret plan put into effect. I gladly use my gifts and talents to serve GOD by the working of HIS power.

 

Challenge

• Can you hear the maturity of the writer?
• Why do you think he calls it a privilege to take the Good News to the Gentiles?
• If you feel less than special, will you stop looking at yourself and look at GOD’s incredible power and simply point one person to the infinite riches of CHRIST today?

 

Another Way

Another Way

Ephesians 2: In the past you were spiritually dead because of your disobedience and sins. ² At that time you followed the world's evil way; you obeyed the ruler of the spiritual powers in space, the spirit who now controls the people who disobey God. ³ Actually all of us were like them and lived according to our natural desires, doing whatever suited the wishes of our own bodies and minds. In our natural condition we, like everyone else, were destined to suffer God's anger.

 

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

 

Growing up obeying the rules, I decided to step away from them to see what would happen. When I did not get struck with a bolt of lightning or get swallowed up by a fiery pit, I said to myself, “Maybe I can try more things that the rules say I shouldn’t.” When I found myself in deep trouble, I wondered how I got there.

 

• I was in a bad place with no hope.
• I felt I did not have a way out.
• I thought I was a disappointment to GOD and even HE would not help me.

 

Paul describes a progression towards a state of being that provides life. He spoke of a time in which the spiritual powers blinded people into following ways that would lead to GOD’s anger. Everyone suffered the natural condition. It seemed hopeless. BUT GOD had another way.

 

My Observations

• JESUS saw I could never achieve HIS required state of perfection so HE died for me.
• JESUS is GOD who became a human for me, was murdered by HIS creation and was raised from the dead, just for me.
• JESUS gave me another way that provides hope and a future.

 

“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of GOD is eternal life through JESUS CHRIST our LORD.”  GOD loved everyone enough to gave a gift. It is up to me to accept HIS gift and live inside of HIS path. Unfortunately there is an adversary who wants me to doubt GOD or blame HIM or question HIS authority or ways.

 

I then say things like “Why does GOD do…?” and “If GOD is so loving then why…?” I then question other people’s walk with JESUS and eventually my own. BUT GOD wants me to have a solid relationship with HIM. HE gave me the HOLY SPIRIT to dwell inside me and guide me to places of peace in stormy times. I am grateful GOD cares for me and I do not have to worry.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think the writer is mentioning “the past?”
• Do you see there is an alternative?
• Will you seek a life that provides hope by asking GOD to handle all of your difficulties today?