Journey Through Life

Journey Through Life

Genesis 47: ⁷ Then Joseph brought in his father Jacob and set him before Pharaoh; and Jacob blessed Pharaoh. ⁸ Pharaoh said to Jacob, “How old are you?”

 

⁹ And Jacob said to Pharaoh, “The days of the years of my pilgrimage are one hundred and thirty years; few and evil have been the days of the years of my life, and they have not attained to the days of the years of the life of my fathers in the days of their pilgrimage.” ¹⁰ So Jacob blessed Pharaoh, and went out from before Pharaoh.

 

¹¹ And Joseph situated his father and his brothers, and gave them a possession in the land of Egypt, in the best of the land, in the land of Rameses, as Pharaoh had commanded. ¹² Then Joseph provided his father, his brothers, and all his father’s household with bread, according to the number in their families.

 

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Joseph brought “Jacob” to Pharaoh and the first thing out of Jacob’s mouth was a blessing. Pharaoh asked Jacob how old he was. Jacob’s answer was interesting.

 

My Observations:

• Jacob mentioned he was younger than his father’s age who died at one hundred eighty and his grandfather died at one hundred seventy five.
• Jacob said his days were “few and evil” as if he regretted being a swindler.
• Jacob finally changed into the leader GOD wanted him to be, so he blessed Pharaoh.

 

All of his adult life, Jacob pursued what he wanted. He tried to circumvent tradition from a swindler who gave him a wife he did not want. He took his brother’s birthright and blessing. He lived in fear of many people groups because of his actions.

 

Jacob seemed to have regrets. BUT GOD used him anyway. GOD was the GOD of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. HE is the same GOD to you and me. Once we truly realize we are inadequate to save ourselves, we can turn to CHRIST for salvation.

 

But it does not stop there. We then have to realize that we are HIS creation and our lives are not to be squandered with our own pursuits. As we approach the finish line, we have an opportunity to serve GOD to our fullest each day!

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about the conversation between Jacob and Pharaoh?
• Have you ever looked back on your life in regret?
• Do you realize that today is given to you to start serving GOD despite the past?

Renamed for Purpose

Renamed for Purpose

Genesis 17: ¹⁵ Then God said to Abraham, “As for Sarai your wife, you shall not call her name Sarai, but ^[g]Sarah shall be her name. ¹⁶ And I will bless her and also give you a son by her; then I will bless her, and she shall be a mother of nations; kings of peoples shall be from her.”

 

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Continuing HIS conversation with Abraham, GOD turns the focus to Sarai. HE renamed her Sarah and said HE would “bless her.” Sarai was barren. She may have grown up by the ways of the Chaldeans, a nomadic group of raiders. She believed that people could be property and mistreated Hagar, her Egyptian slave.  She thought of a plan to fulfill GOD’s promise, possibly because of shame for being barren.

 

My Observations:

• Sarai was blessed by GOD from birth.
• Sarai had strong faith as she went through famine, almost being taken and battles without complaining.
• Sarai, like Abraham, wanted GOD to win, but took matters in her own hands.

 

Renaming Sarai to Sarah was significant. GOD specifically had a purpose for her. HE would eventually perform a miracle that would show people HE is in control of the human body and spirit. GOD would bless Sarah, “AND” give Abraham a son.

 

This blessing would touch Sarah on many levels. For ninety years she was barren, then GOD tells Abraham she would be “the mother of nations; kings of peoples shall be from her.”  Sarah would not only be a mother, but a mother of many races and people groups. GOD erased Abraham’s and Sarah’s past and gave them purpose for HIM. This required them to be new.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think GOD told Moses about changing Sarai’s name to Sarah?
• Have you ever felt like giving up on GOD’s purpose for you?
• Will you continue with strong faith in GOD’s purpose for you today?

Enough for the Plan

Enough for the Plan

Genesis 6: ¹⁵ And this is how you shall make it: The length of the ark shall be three hundred cubits, its width fifty cubits, and its height thirty cubits. ¹⁶ You shall make a window for the ark, and you shall finish it to a cubit from above; and set the door of the ark in its side. You shall make it with lower, second, and third decks. 

 

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With no turning back, GOD gave Noah vague instructions on what to build to save humanity. I can only imagine how Noah felt. He walked with the LORD for years, so he had a heart for the people. Hearing that everyone would die must have been some terrifying news. Noah, while obedient, may have tried to save his siblings and townspeople. No one would listen.

 

GOD gave Noah dimensions that would be just enough to save mankind. No more, no less. Noah could ask GOD questions to get specificity along the way,

 

My Observations:

• GOD provided Noah with purpose.
• GOD did not do the work for Noah, but included him in the plan.
• GOD was specific enough, but left room for Noah to use his ingenuity.

 

Building an ark was probably not a delightful task. Noah was told that everything would be destroyed and no one would believe him. He was not only the contractor in GOD’s plan, but the benefactor. He and his family would remain alive if he followed the plan. GOD partnered with Noah to save him and mankind.

 

It never said that the LORD left Noah. The conversation also did not go into detail about tools, shapes or other “how” questions. GOD had a plan that HE wanted to succeed. HE would provide all that was needed.

 

Challenge

• Why did GOD get so specific with his instructions to Noah?
• Have you ever overdone or underdone something?
• Can you listen to GOD for specific instructions that are just enough for HIS plan?

Free Will Established

Free Will Established

Genesis 2: ¹⁵ Then the Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to tend and keep it. ¹⁶ And the Lord God commanded the man, saying, “Of every tree of the garden you may freely eat; ¹⁷ but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.”

 

After creating a perfect place with beauty that could be enjoyed forever, GOD placed man in the garden and gave him something to do. The trees would grow themselves and provide fruit. Water was plentiful so no plant suffered. There was no rot or disease or bug infestations.

 

My Observations:

• GOD gave the first human something to do for his enjoyment.
• GOD provided everything the first human could ever need.
• GOD also gave the first human a choice to obey by providing something he should not do.

 

Two trees were GOD’s and millions, if not billions of trees were for the first human. Each plant, bush, or tree would provide enough food for every animal, bird and fish. GOD probably had other conversations with the first human, but those are not recorded. HIS command, however, is recorded. HE distinctly told the first human not to eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. HE even gave the consequence. Death.

 

“What in the world is death?” would have been my question. GOD did not reveal the total conversation with the first human, but somehow, the message was conveyed. This was the very first command. No other rules. No sacrifice. No laws. Just eat and tend to the food provided.

 

Challenge:

• Why does GOD emphasize this command to Moses?
• Even with plenty, have you ever wanted what someone else had?
• Have you considered how much or how little you surrender yourself to GOD by choice?

A Woman of Purpose

A Woman of Purpose

Revelation 12: ¹³ When the dragon realized that he had been thrown down to the earth, he began to pursue the woman who had given birth to the boy. ¹⁴ She was given the two wings of a large eagle in order to fly to her place in the desert, where she will be taken care of for three and a half years, safe from the dragon's attack. ¹⁵ And then from his mouth the dragon poured out a flood of water after the woman, so that it would carry her away. ¹⁶ But the earth helped the woman; it opened its mouth and swallowed the water that had come from the dragon's mouth. ¹⁷ The dragon was furious with the woman and went off to fight against the rest of her descendants, all those who obey God's commandments and are faithful to the truth revealed by Jesus. ¹⁸ And the dragon stood on the seashore.

 

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“You shouldn’t go for it” was the bad advice I almost listened to. A person, who I thought was in my corner, was trying to convince me to not take a promotion because it was “uncertain.” But I took the position anyway. Later I found out that he wanted the position.

 

• I was being deceived.
• I was being pursued by someone who did not have my best interest in mind.
• I was being protected.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, continued the vision he was given about Satan being thrown out of heaven to earth. He calls him “the dragon”  who displayed great powers. Since the birth of JESUS could not be stopped, the dragon tried to harm “the woman” or GOD’s people who obey HIS commands and are faithful to the truth revealed by JESUS.

 

My Observations:

• GOD gives us purpose of spreading HIS message of love.
• GOD knows the obstructions we will face because of Satan’s fury.
• GOD gives us wings and tells the earth to swallow up the attacks of the enemy in order to protect us.

 

Protection is required when we profess JESUS as the Savior. I mean, I used to think life would be easier if I accepted JESUS as my Savior, but it got worse! Attack after attack, I wondered if GOD was listening or if HE had the power HE said HE had. Fortunately for me, GOD is gracious.

 

HE sees to attack of Satan from way off and provides you and me with the right thing at the right time. HE gives us “wings” when we need to fly and summons the earth to absorb the enemy’s attack. I am glad to be part of HIS bride as I continue in my faith.

 

Challenge

• What protection does the writer mention?
• Have you ever been attacked and did not know how to respond?
• Will you seek GOD’s protection by believing in JESUS and know that HE has given you purpose, so HE will protect you today?

Motive Foundation

Motive Foundation

1 John 2: ¹² I write to you, my children, because your sins are forgiven for the sake of Christ. ¹³ I write to you, fathers, because you know him who has existed from the beginning. I write to you, young people, because you have defeated the Evil One.
 
¹⁴ I write to you, my children, because you know the Father. I write to you, fathers, because you know him who has existed from the beginning. I write to you, young people, because you are strong; the word of God lives in you, and you have defeated the Evil One.

 

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“Why did you do that?” was the question posed to me when I did something “bad.” “I don’t know” was my childish reply, hoping the answer would suffice. That answer never worked.

 

• I did not know my motive was being questioned.
• I was too insecure to own up to the fact that I simply wanted to do the “bad” thing.
• After a while, I planned for my motives to be questioned by making sure I hid the “bad” things I was doing a little better.

 

John gently tells everyone why he wrote the letter. He was not trying to create authors of letters, rather he attempted to lift everyone up by providing a foundation to remain encouraged.

 

My Observations:

• Our sins are forgiven because of JESUS.
• It is an honor to know the one who existed from the beginning.
• Those who follow JESUS are strong and the Word of GOD lives in us and we have defeated the Evil one.

 

“Why am I doing this?” is a question I have to ask myself regularly. I mean, only I know if my motive is steeped in insecure untruths, mixed in with the desire to get “my” way and only “my” way. BUT GOD sees the heart.

 

HE know when my motives are impure and when they are at their best. By believing in JESUS, my motives can be cleansed to align with GOD. Everything I do needs to be filtered through the question “LORD is this what YOU want me to do?” I am glad GOD is willing to guide my motives to serve HIM wholeheartedly.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think the writer repeats himself?
• What words of encouragement do you trip over in this passage?
• Will you accept the foundation of encouragement by giving GOD your motives and allow HIM to guide you to HIS way of doing things today?

Legacy of Purpose

Legacy of Purpose

2 Peter 1: ¹² And so I will always remind you of these matters, even though you already know them and are firmly grounded in the truth you have received. ¹³ I think it only right for me to stir up your memory of these matters as long as I am still alive. ¹⁴ I know that I shall soon put off this mortal body, as our Lord Jesus Christ plainly told me. ¹⁵ I will do my best, then, to provide a way for you to remember these matters at all times after my death.

 

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“What would you do differently if you knew you were going to die in the next two weeks?” was the poignant question posed to us at the Promise Keeper’s conference. I really hadn’t thought of that, but after pondering I realized I would love more, spread the Gospel more and praise more. The next statement was the game changer. “Then why don’t you start doing this right now.”

 

• I wanted conditions to be perfect for me to do what I should have been doing all along.
• I felt bad that I could not blame anyone but myself for not doing the things I should have been doing.
• I realized then, that I need to make a change in my life that would actively include GOD’s love spread to my family, friends and strangers.

 

Peter got some startling news directly from JESUS. After leaving the ministry, Peter went back to fishing. JESUS appeared to the disciples in a miraculous encounter. HE told Peter about his death after reinstating him in the ministry. Peter, from then on, spoke boldly about JESUS.

 

My Observations:

• People are important, BUT GOD is most important.
• Being busy doing life is okay, but following GOD is the ultimate.
• Working hard to stay alive and healthy is not bad, but showing people the way to believe in GOD is the pinnacle of existence.

 

Selfish people redefine what is important. I mean, when people ask the question “What would you like to be known by?” they may answer by saying “Money” or “Fame” or “Acquiescing to selfish needs of greedy people.” They may not come out directly and say those things, but it may be at the heart of the matter. GOD wants something different.

 

Each and every day, GOD wants HIS people to remember JESUS. HIS death and resurrection is the most important event that ever happened to mankind. All GOD wants us to do is to love one another so people would turn their eyes to HIM. I gladly leave a legacy of spreading JESUS as the most important gift I could give my family, friends and strangers.

 

Challenge

• What do you think is the writer’s definition of being “firmly grounded in the truth?”
• Have you examined your life’s purpose to see if it includes what GOD wants you to do?
• Will you live your life with GOD’s purpose from this day forth so you can be used to being many people to HIM from now on?

 

Purpose Speeds

Purpose Speeds

James 1: ¹⁹ Remember this, my dear friends! Everyone must be quick to listen, but slow to speak and slow to become angry. ²⁰ Human anger does not achieve God's righteous purpose. ²¹ So get rid of every filthy habit and all wicked conduct. Submit to God and accept the word that he plants in your hearts, which is able to save you.

 

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Hearing some words I did not like, I immediately came back with a retort. This set off an argument that made me angry. I then brought up unrelated problems as examples.  

 

• I was not able to hear what was said because I was thinking of what “I” was going to say.
• I was angry so my statements were not fully rational.
• I was impatient and could not wait on GOD to speak to me in this situation.

 

James begins addressing an issue that remains today, namely impatience. He guides everyone to do something different. He uses speeds to illustrate a better way to communicate so GOD’s purpose can be achieved.

 

My Observations:

• GOD is slow to anger with me and wants me to do the same.
• Listening to other people takes practice to get beyond hurtful words.
• Cursing people out ruins GOD’s purpose and so do snide remarks.

 

Words are powerful. I mean, they can grow or crush people. Unfortunately, I have sometimes chosen to crush people, thinking he or she will understand the “error of their ways” and change. So far, this has NEVER worked. GOD has a different approach.

 

HE wants me to listen first, understand that poisonous darts come from children and grab hold of my tongue to use GOD’s words versus my own. Trying to hurt someone on purpose is foolish and childish. I did not realize how irrational I had been until I reviewed my words and compared them to what JESUS said and did to the masses. I am glad HE shows me love and compassion.

 

Challenge

• How and why does the writer use speeds?
• Have you ever gotten angry with someone just because he or she walked into the room?
• Do you get angry quickly with more than one person?
• Will you seek GOD’s peace and patience so you can be slow to speak and slow to get angry today and so you can be used for GOD’s purpose?

Gifted

Gifted

James 1: ¹⁶ Do not be deceived, my dear friends! ¹⁷ Every good gift and every perfect present comes from heaven; it comes down from God, the Creator of the heavenly lights, who does not change or cause darkness by turning. ¹⁸ By his own will he brought us into being through the word of truth, so that we should have first place among all his creatures.

 

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“You are gifted” someone said to me. I had not heard that before in reference to me and I was puzzled at the statement. Too scared to ask questions I simply said “Thanks.” Later I realized the compliment was in reference to me cutting my parents grass.

 

• I was less enthused by the compliment.
• I did not want to be “known” by my grass cutting skills.
• I thought “gifts” were something like super strength or speed or being a brainiac.

 

James gives a stern warning to all believers in JESUS as the Savior. He warns everyone that any good gift comes from GOD. This warning was probably put in place so humans would not take credit for skills acquitted.

 

My Observations:

• I need to praise GOD for every gift, talent and skill I possesses.
• I should be thankful for being exposed to new learning and attribute it to GOD.
• I should not overlook the smallest gift GOD has given me, because it is important to HIM.

 

Being thankful for even the smallest gift is important. I mean, if all I have to offer someone that day is a smile, I should offer it in healthy portions. Afterwards, I can be thankful that my “gift” of smiling may have brought joy to someone that day.

 

GOD uses all gifts and presents HE gives to us for HIS purpose. The things we think are small are huge to HIM. HE wants me to recognize and thank HIM for the gifts HE has given me. Remember the grass cutting? Years later I was able to bring unity to a block I moved to, simply because people had questions about my grass. I am grateful for the gifts GOD has given me!

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer give such a powerful warning?
• Have you ever acquired a skill or talent and thought it was you who did it?
• Are you overlooking a gift that is important to GOD, but less important to you?
• Will you take a moment to list your gifts, skills and talents, no matter how small, and thank GOD for each so you can use them for HIS purpose today?

Unchanged Purpose

Unchanged Purpose

Hebrews 6: ¹⁶ When we make a vow, we use the name of someone greater than ourselves, and the vow settles all arguments. ¹⁷ To those who were to receive what he promised, God wanted to make it very clear that he would never change his purpose; so he added his vow to the promise.

 

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When the new leadership arrived, the place felt different. New policies were provided in orientations and the same people I used to work with had now changed. The purpose behind my job was now different.

 

• I felt there was a “bait” and “switch” happening.
• I did not like change, especially when it did not seem to benefit me or my coworkers.
• It seemed like top management needed an excuse for changing things, and all of us would “lose.”

 

Paul, the assumed writer, spoke about “GOD’s unchanging purpose. GOD made a vow based on HIS own name since there is no one greater than HIM. HE revealed this vow to humans to give assurance that HE would keep HIS promise. GOD wanted to make it clear that HE has a purpose that will never change.

 

My Observations:

• GOD will never ever change HIS purpose, namely to save the lost.
• GOD will always love me because I believe in HIS SON, JESUS, who sacrificed HIMSELF just to be with me.
• GOD does not change HIS mind or switch HIS purpose when I, or others, do something wrong.

 

Humans play the “change the rules” game all the time. I mean, when life gets uncomfortable, simply change the rules until comfort fits, even if it means throwing out GOD’s word. Unfortunately, true “comfort” and “peace” are owned by GOD, so walking away from HIS statutes leaves me guessing, lying to myself, hurt or dead. GOD doesn’t want this.

 

HE made promises to always be with me and to guide me, even through difficult times. HE promised to live inside me and cleanse me of all unrighteousness when I confess I need HIM. I am glad HE reveals HIS love for me daily and I am willing to follow HIM.

 

Challenge

• What does GOD make “very clear” according to the writer?
• Have you ever felt GOD’s conditions for you can change based on how much or how little you sin?
• Have you thrown out GOD’s ways because it does not follow “your” relative truth?
• Will you seek GOD’s unchanging ways so HE can make you whole and to change the course of your life today?

Sticky Source

Sticky Source

2 Timothy 1: ³ I give thanks to God, whom I serve with a clear conscience, as my ancestors did. I thank him as I remember you always in my prayers night and day. ⁴ I remember your tears, and I want to see you very much, so that I may be filled with joy. ⁵ I remember the sincere faith you have, the kind of faith that your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice also had. I am sure that you have it also. ⁶ For this reason I remind you to keep alive the gift that God gave you when I laid my hands on you. ⁷ For the Spirit that God has given us does not make us timid; instead, his Spirit fills us with power, love, and self-control.

 

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Alone in my apartment, I regretted the previous night’s activities. I was just beginning my return back to serving GOD and was trying to be “perfect” which in my mind meant sinless. But a night out with “friends” ended my perfection quickly.

 

• I felt that GOD was tired of me.
• I felt that living for GOD was too hard because “I” could not get “my” life together.
• I looked at people in the church as being hypocrites since they seemed to have it all together and I was struggling to live for GOD as they were.

 

Paul gives a pep talk to Timothy. Perhaps Timothy was feeling down and wondered if his ministry was tainted. Maybe his faith waivered and he felt like giving up. Paul reminds Timothy of his faith and the faith of those in his family. Paul then reminds Timothy that life is not about his power, but the power of GOD.

 

My Observations

• My view of GOD was not where it needed to be because I thought HIS love was based on my actions.
• I thought I could control GOD by not sinning and felt more scared of GOD when I failed.
• GOD saw all my sins and saved me anyway, that is why I love HIM.

 

Not my power, but YOURs LORD. This is something I have to say quite a bit. When I think everything has to come from my power, I am hugely mistaken. GOD did not leave something so important to HIM up to me. HE chose me and holds me firmly, even when I let go.

 

HE gave me the HOLY SPIRIT which opens my mouth to speak about HIM. HE fills me with HIS power, love and self-control “when” I sin, not “if.” HE constantly tells me “MY grace is sufficient” so I can have a clear conscience. I am glad GOD is the ultimate forgiver!

 

Challenge

• How can the writer, who was a murderer, have a clear conscience?
• Have you ever felt not worthy of serving GOD?
• Will you look at GOD’s power, love and self-control and stop thinking those come from you versus HE has power, HE has love and HE has self-control for you today?

Purpose Given

Purpose Given

1 Timothy 2: ³ This is good and it pleases God our Savior, ⁴ who wants everyone to be saved and to come to know the truth. ⁵ For there is one God, and there is one who brings God and human beings together, the man Christ Jesus, ⁶ who gave himself to redeem the whole human race. That was the proof at the right time that God wants everyone to be saved, ⁷ and that is why I was sent as an apostle and teacher of the Gentiles, to proclaim the message of faith and truth. I am not lying; I am telling the truth!

 

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“Please take notes” were the words asked of me that I was insulted by. I had been invited to a meeting with the highest executives in the company and they only wanted me to take notes!? But after doing it for a while, I realized, I was learning about concerns that I never would have.

 

• I admit, I did not like my purpose.
• I wanted to “be” something other than someone else’s lacky.
• I almost missed something huge by not wanting to start out small and learn.

 

Paul explained purpose. Not just his, but all humans. He explained that GOD “wants everyone to be saved and to come to know the truth.” JESUS took this purpose seriously and took on the sins of mankind to redeem the whole human race. He then proclaims that he too wants this as his purpose.

 

My Observations

• Without understanding GOD’s desire, I cannot “be” what HE made me for.
• I have to love what GOD loves in order to see the purpose HE made me for.
• GOD’s purpose for me may be simpler than I would like it to be, but I may be missing a lesson that would grow me.

 

Wanting to “be” something else can get in the way of my purpose. I mean, wanting to be a celebrity, or have a different shape or to not be what I am can cause me to miss out on the purpose I have been given right here and now.

 

I may be given the opportunity to reach the person in front of me with the greatest message one could ever hear, namely JESUS died for you and me and is alive! Instead, I may grouse about my business or job or family state. GOD forgives me and fills me up to see HIS purpose and wants me to be thankful for being chosen to go out and seek HIS Kingdom.

 

Challenge

• What do you think is “good and pleasing” to the LORD as the writer puts it?
• Have you ever wanted to take classes or read books on how to be a better you?
• Be honest, do you like you?
• Will you see yourself as GOD sees you and accept your purpose which is to save the lost today?

 

Prayer

Dear LORD, thank you for giving this reader purpose. Help him or her accept YOUR purpose so abundant life can be given. amen

You ARE Special

You ARE Special

2 Thessalonians 1: ¹³ But we are bound to give thanks to God always for you, brethren beloved by the Lord, because God from the beginning chose you for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth, ¹⁴ to which He called you by our gospel, for the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. ¹⁵ Therefore, brethren, stand fast and hold the traditions which you were taught, whether by word or our epistle.

 

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Feeling lonely, I sought out people who would be “friendly.” When I found a group, I was always welcome, but something was missing. Each group seemed similar, promoting “unity” and “service” But was there more.

 

• I felt there had to be more than being in a group.
• In some groups, I felt lonelier because something was missing.
• I noticed some people made the “group” their purpose in life, but there had to be more.

 

Paul, Silas and Timothy express their gratitude for those who believe in JESUS as the Savior. They explain how GOD has called people for a purpose and set them apart for HIS own. They also urge the people to stay special by learning about JESUS.

 

My Observations

• Thankfulness for others stretches beyond any group I can get into.
• GOD chose me for salvation and set me apart by the SPIRIT and belief in the truth.
• Glory of our LORD JESUS CHRIST is given to me because GOD chose me.

 

GOD chose you and that is what makes you special. I mean, groups can make me feel special for a moment, but something will always be missing, namely GOD. I know I have to remain on this earth and live in the world, so GOD doesn’t mind me socializing. But that is not my purpose.

 

From the time I was born until the time JESUS returns, GOD gives me purpose. HE will examine every word and deed to see if HE is involved. All the things I thought were “special” may not be to HIM. HE will reward me for the things I truly did in HIS name. I am grateful GOD holds onto me even when I let go of HIM.

 

Challenge

• What is the calling the writers are speaking about?
• Have you ever been part of a group yet felt a higher calling?
• Will you fulfill your purpose by letting go of the world’s solutions and focus on what GOD has called you to do today?

Urging

Urging

1 Thessalonians 2: ¹⁰ You are our witnesses, and so is God, that our conduct toward you who believe was pure, right, and without fault. ¹¹ You know that we treated each one of you just as parents treat their own children. ¹² We encouraged you, we comforted you, and we kept urging you to live the kind of life that pleases God, who calls you to share in his own Kingdom and glory.

 

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“You should do it!” was the message of the dare. As more people joined in, the dare became more appealing. “I bet you won’t” were the words of the final straw! There was no turning back!

 

• I had to do what people were urging me to do.
• I did not want to be embarrassed so I did it.
• Now that I did it, people urged me to do some other dare that made no sense.

 

Paul, Silas and Timothy spent a tremendous amount of time with the people of Thessalonica. They made sure their conduct and motives were pure, right and without fault. They were very careful with the people, just like parents are with their children.

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to treat HIS children carefully.
• Encouragement is a gift GOD wants me to give in generous doses.
• Comfort is needed when GOD delivers someone to me who is going through things.

 

Sharing in GOD’s Kingdom is the goal. HE has better stuff, a better place and no worries. HE wants everyone to have a better life. Unfortunately there are times when I think that life can be obtained here on earth. I try to scrape as much money together to pretend I am living a great life. BUT GOD has a better way.

 

HE wants me to live my life with HIS purpose. This means I should govern myself in a way that is pleasing to HIM. Encouragement and comfort should not be held back from anyone, friend or foe. I am glad GOD calls me and you to share in HIS kingdom.

 

Challenge

• How did the writers treat the people?
• How would you like to be treated?
• Will you seek to share GOD’s kingdom with everyone and live a life that is pleasing to HIM today?

Entrusted

Entrusted

1 Thessalonians 2: ³ Our appeal to you is not based on error or impure motives, nor do we try to trick anyone. ⁴ Instead, we always speak as God wants us to, because he has judged us worthy to be entrusted with the Good News. We do not try to please people, but to please God, who tests our motives.

 

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When the phone rang, I answered and held a great conversation with my grandmother. “Tell your parents I called and to call me back” were the words given to me. As the day went on, I went outside to play, then eat, then go to bed. I never told anyone about the call.

 

• I had forgotten to pass on the message.
• I was not prepared to remember something important.
• I did not withhold information maliciously, I simply forgot.

 

Paul, Silas and Timothy start out by saying their motives were pure when it came to the message of GOD. Other speakers may have tried to lead the people astray, but Paul, Silas and Timothy held themselves to a higher standard. They knew they would be judged by GOD for misrepresentation but even more, they were excited about being “entrusted” with HIS message.

 

My Observations

• JESUS forgave me of all my sins for HIS because HE loves me and has a purpose for my life.
• GOD wiped away all my sins so I could speak on HIS behalf, even though HE does not need me to do so.
• GOD entrusted me with HIS valuable Good News and wants me to keep it pure, even if people are not pleased with the fact that HE will also judge everyone.

 

Pleasing people can get me in trouble. I mean, when My motives are to gain more power or to manipulate people to get my way, I may try to please him or her temporarily until I get what “I” want. BUT GOD sees through my motives and wants me to act differently.

 

Instead HE approaches my life in an unusual way. HE knows I am a sinner yet HE gives me the most important message that all humans need to hear, believe in and shout namely, JESUS is LORD!. I am glad GOD sees my motives and entrusts me anyway.

 

Challenge

• Why did the writers make an appeal?
• What does it mean to be judged worthy by GOD?
• Will you accept JESUS as your Savior so HE can cleanse you of all unrighteousness and entrust you with HIS Good News today?

True Identity

True Identity

Ephesians 3: ¹⁴ For this reason I fall on my knees before the Father, ¹⁵ from whom every family in heaven and on earth receives its true name. 

 

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As I was walking down the hall someone shouted a negative label at me. My youthful response was to get a large friend and threaten a fight. The label was not who I was so it enraged me.

 

• I reacted to a false label.
• I wasted time and energy over something that was not true.
• I was not ready to take the high road so I stooped down to fight.

 

Paul uncovers something interesting. He says each person has a “true name” which implies the family name I have is false. HE was revealed that GOD provides purpose through a name.

 

My Observations

• My true identity will be revealed to me when I am with the FATHER.
• I will one day understand my true purpose in union with CHRIST.
• Knowing I have a true name gives me hope.

 

People want to be GOD so we label each other in ways to make others feel inferior. BUT GOD is supreme and is the only one who holds the true label of HIS creation. HE made each person carefully and with a special purpose. Unfortunately, there is an adversary who lies and confuses people to seek a worldly identity.

 

People are separated and lied to so JESUS becomes a problem rather than the only solution. Political thieves try to hijack the name of JESUS but fail miserably because GOD knows HIS true flock. I am glad GOD holds my identity and has adopted me into HIS glorious family.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer appeal to identity when entering into prayer?
• Have you ever been called a false label or possibly mislabeled yourself?
• Will you stop seeking validation from the world and know you are loved fully by GOD who holds your true purpose and identity in CHRIST who is our Savior today?

Hope for the Best

Hope for the Best

Ephesians 1: From Paul, who by God's will is an apostle of Christ Jesus—

To God's people in Ephesus, who are faithful in their life in union with Christ Jesus:

² May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace.

 

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Distracted, I answered “Fine” to the greeter’s greeting. I believe he said “Hello! How are you?” and I did not want to disclose that everything was on fire in my life at that time, so I responded simple.

 

• I had been through a lot.
• I was tired of problems, but that was all that was on my mind.
• I was walking around on auto-pilot, functioning versus thriving.

 

Paul opens up with a very warm greeting. He mentions how faithful this group had been in their union with CHRIST JESUS. He then wishes everyone the best by hoping GOD our FATHER and the LORD JESUS CHRIST provide grace and peace.

 

My Observations

• When life gets hard it is nice to hear the hope of GOD.
• I enjoy when someone gives me a greeting of grace and peace.
• GOD wants me to spread HIS grace and peace to as many as I can.

 

Recognizing that people may have been through something comes from going through something. I mean, the trials and troubles of the world shape me so I can empathize with others who may be going through similar battles. When I say “I hope for GOD to give you the best”, he or she may feel what I am going through and know I really mean it.

 

Giving people hope is necessary these days. Many have lost hope and need a simple greeting. My hope for you is that GOD our FATHER and the LORD JESUS CHRIST give you grace and peace.

 

Challenge

• What do you feel when you read the writer’s opening?
• Have you been faithful to GOD, yet are facing many trials?
• Will you know you are not alone and accept this statement of hope for the best GOD can offer you today which is HIS grace and peace through the trial?

Given a Task

 

Given a Task

Galatians 2: ⁶ But those who seemed to be the leaders—I say this because it makes no difference to me what they were; God does not judge by outward appearances—those leaders, I say, made no new suggestions to me. ⁷ On the contrary, they saw that God had given me the task of preaching the gospel to the Gentiles, just as he had given Peter the task of preaching the gospel to the Jews. 

 

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When my parents said “clean up this” or “clean up that” it felt like drudgery, but I would do it. But when the teacher was passing out “tasks” she overlooked my raised hand and picked someone behind me. “What about me?” I asked. She said “Okay, you can clean up the book area.”

 

• I was delighted to be chosen!
• I was excited to be part of something.
• I was willing to do what it took when I was given a task to do.

 

Outward appearances were not what Paul was going for. He had run into phony people who spoke about GOD on the surface, but were seeking fame and praise. Those who were truly following JESUS saw Paul’s actions from his heart. He was given a task by GOD to spread the Gospel to the Gentiles.

 

My Observations

• GOD looks at my heart actions versus surface actions.
• GOD knows when I am being sincere versus self-serving.
• GOD gives me tasks because HE wants me to succeed in growing HIS kingdom.

 

Getting tasks from GOD happens daily. I mean, HE wants me to pray for those around me and hope that all I encounter in a given day, accept JESUS as the Savior. The task HE gives to us is usually not small,

 

HE wants all to be saved. Unfortunately there are times when I get distracted by the days worries or a season or even a specific day. GOD loved me so much that HE gave me HIS one and only SON so I could believe in HIM and be saved. I am glad I can look beyond the day and see HIS eternal love.

 

Challenge

• What task is the writer given?
• Why is his task different than Peter’s?
• What task do you believe GOD is giving you?

 

Dear LORD, please give the reader a clear task for today. Let him or her know YOUR love. amen

Why do it?

Why do it?

1 Corinthians 9: ¹⁵ But I haven't made use of any of these rights, nor am I writing this now in order to claim such rights for myself. I would rather die first! Nobody is going to turn my rightful boast into empty words! ¹⁶ I have no right to boast just because I preach the gospel. After all, I am under orders to do so. And how terrible it would be for me if I did not preach the gospel! ¹⁷ If I did my work as a matter of free choice, then I could expect to be paid; but I do it as a matter of duty, because God has entrusted me with this task. ¹⁸ What pay do I get, then? It is the privilege of preaching the Good News without charging for it, without claiming my rights in my work for the gospel.

 

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After punching out on Thursday, a feeling of dread came over me. I was supposed to be relieved because it was the weekend, but I knew I had to return to work on Sunday. “The only reason I cleaned toilets was because of the money” I said to myself.

 

• Getting a degree was my motive for finishing school.
• Getting a few dollars was my motive for being a janitor.
• Getting training and certifications was my motive for increasing my salary.

 

Paul speaks about the right to be paid for speaking about the Good News of JESUS. He did not exercise this right, though he could. Instead he called it a “privilege” because GOD entrusted him with this task.

 

• GOD wants me to give people the Good News of JESUS.
• GOD wants me to be excited that HE trusts me to speak about JESUS.
• GOD wants me to be honored at the privilege of speaking about JESUS.

 

Being able to speak about JESUS is no boasting matter. GOD has given me an order to speak about HIS SON whenever and wherever I can. Paid or unpaid, it is a privilege that should not be taken lightly.

 

When I am motivated by “getting” I spend all kinds of time, money and effort to be what humans expect. But when I am focused on “giving”, GOD gets excited because HE has entrusted me with this honor. I gladly speak about JESUS, paid or unpaid.

 

• Is your life centered around what you can “get” out of it?
• Are your dreams and aspirations focused on what you should be “getting?”
• Will you ask GOD to guide you into what you can “give” instead of what you can “get” today?

Blossomed

Blossomed

Romans 16: ²⁵ Let us give glory to God! He is able to make you stand firm in your faith, according to the Good News I preach about Jesus Christ and according to the revelation of the secret truth which was hidden for long ages in the past. ²⁶ Now, however, that truth has been brought out into the open through the writings of the prophets; and by the command of the eternal God it is made known to all nations, so that all may believe and obey.

 

²⁷ To the only God, who alone is all-wise, be glory through Jesus Christ forever! Amen.

 

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Clearing weeds was a chore, but it was finished. After planting many seeds, I eagerly awaited the fruits of “my” labor. I watered the dirt where the seeds were buried regularly. I stared and stared. Nothing. After a few days, I stopped looking. Nothing was happening so I stopped watering. I moved on to other “fun” filled activities. Weeks later, the plants had grown wildly.

 

• There have been times when I gave up on a promise I was supposed to maintain.
• There have been times when I wanted to see something immediate and could not wait for the fruit.
• There have been times when I stopped trying and the fruit came up anyway.

 

Paul and Tertius complete the letter with praise to GOD. They acknowledge that it is GOD who is able to make people stand firm in faith. What was once planted by the prophets has grown into an immovable tree which is the truth of JESUS. The all-wise GOD has revealed HIS secret truth so all may believe and obey.

 

• GOD wants me to praise HIM even when I have abandoned my faith.
• GOD wants me to know HE is the one who is faithful and is able to make me stand firm in my faith.
• GOD wants me to make HIS message known to all nations so they may believe and obey.

 

Seeds are given to me to plant in someone else’s heart. Someone else comes along to water those seeds. BUT GOD is the only one who can grow the seed into HIS purpose. The seed is JESUS. The growth is the HOLY SPIRIT working inside me. The fruit grows to reach the FATHER. I am grateful GOD is in control of faith.

 

• Do you feel you do not have enough faith?
• Do you need GOD to intervene and you are not seeing what HE is doing?
• Will you praise GOD for sustaining you and your faith so HE will help you bear HIS fruit today?