Leadership Prepared

Leadership Prepared

Exodus 4: ²⁷ And the Lord said to Aaron, “Go into the wilderness to meet Moses.” So he went and met him on the mountain of God, and kissed him. ²⁸ So Moses told Aaron all the words of the Lord who had sent him, and all the signs which He had commanded him. ²⁹ Then Moses and Aaron went and gathered together all the elders of the children of Israel. ³⁰ And Aaron spoke all the words which the Lord had spoken to Moses. Then he did the signs in the sight of the people. ³¹ So the people believed; and when they heard that the Lord had visited the children of Israel and that He had looked on their affliction, then they bowed their heads and worshiped.

 

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GOD spoke to Aaron based on Moses’s request, and sent him to meet Moses on top of the mountain of GOD. After they met they wen to Egypt and met with the elders. There they performed the miracles they were going to perform in front of Pharaoh.

 

My Observations:

• GOD interacts with our free will and HIS will in a way that HE can listen to a request and already know the outcome.
• GOD sent Aaron to Mount Horeb, which is also called Mount Sinai, to have Moses show him the bush that didn’t burn up and to discuss all that GOD said.
• Moses and Aaron went to the elders of the children of Israel and performed all the signs that GOD was about to do.

 

Talk about preparation! GOD did some amazing things in this passage of scripture that I have never noticed before in my life! HE sent Aaron to meet Moses on a huge mountain. They found each other. Moses was probably pretty excited as he pointed to a bush that looked like any old bush, but he saw it on fire at one point.

 

Second Observations:

• I believe the preincarnate JESUS went to send Aaron.
• I believe the HOLY SPIRIT led Aaron directly to Moses.
• I believe the FATHER was orchestrating the salvation of HIS people through JESUS and the HOLY SPIRIT, because THEY do not need credit for who was doing what.

 

Moses and Aaron probably talked all the way to Egypt and caught up on forty years of low to no contact. When they arrived, they gathered the elders from each tribe who would tell the history to the people. They performed many of the signs that GOD would have them perform. I say “many” because no one died, which was the last plague that would be imposed on Egypt. The people “believed” and they “worshiped.”

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD remind Moses about when Aaron was sent and the signs they performed in front of the children of Israel?
• Have you ever had an encounter with GOD that you were excited to share with people?
• What is GOD preparing you and others for?

Seen People

Seen People

Genesis 15: ¹⁷ And it came to pass, when the sun went down and it was dark, that behold, there appeared a smoking oven and a burning torch that passed between those pieces. ¹⁸ On the same day the Lord made a covenant with Abram, saying:

 

“To your descendants I have given this land, from the river of Egypt to the great river, the River Euphrates— ¹⁹ the Kenites, the Kenezzites, the Kadmonites, ²⁰ the Hittites, the Perizzites, the Rephaim, ²¹ the Amorites, the Canaanites, the Girgashites, and the Jebusites.”

 

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Relating to humans is easy to GOD. Relating to GOD is sometimes difficult for humans. We don’t understand what or who HE really is. Only what HE has revealed, can we catch a glimpse of who HE is. When HE appeared to Abram, this time it was in the form of a smoking oxen. GOD reveals four SPIRITS to one of HIS disciples centuries later, one of which was “like an ox.”

 

GOD possibly passed the burning torch between the sacrificed animals, burning them up in the process. HE then made a covenant, or a promise, with Abram.

 

My Observations:

• GOD knew about people who were against HIM and had plans for their demise, but in HIS time.
• GOD’s plan for Abram would be fulfilled centuries later.
• GOD’s promises transcend life as we know it.

 

By localizing the vision GOD had for Abram, you and I can catch a glimpse of how HE works. HE may provide a promise to you and me, but part of the promise may get fulfilled centuries later. The weird part about GOD is that HE sees people who despise who HE is or treat HIM irreverently by trying to make HIM into their image.

 

GOD seems to be using extreme restraint, grace and mercy on people who are blatantly doing wrong. That includes you and me. HE gives people plenty of time to turn from their ways and to believe they need the Savior, namely JESUS. GOD’s positive promises include those who confess HIM as LORD. HE also promises to take vengeance on those who do not.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think GOD explains this vision to Moses?
• Have you ever wondered if GOD sees the wrong someone is doing to you or around you?
• Will you have peace, knowing GOD sees those who wronged you and HE will take vengeance on those who harm HIS people?

Sight Reminder

Sight Reminder

Jude 1: ⁵ For even though you know all this, I want to remind you of how the Lord once rescued the people of Israel from Egypt, but afterward destroyed those who did not believe. ⁶ Remember the angels who did not stay within the limits of their proper authority, but abandoned their own dwelling place: they are bound with eternal chains in the darkness below, where God is keeping them for that great Day on which they will be condemned. ⁷ Remember Sodom and Gomorrah, and the nearby towns, whose people acted as those angels did and indulged in sexual immorality and perversion: they suffer the punishment of eternal fire as a plain warning to all.

 

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“Can’t they see he’s lying?” were the words running through my mind. I wrestled with this guy “getting away with “ his lies about me and wondered why people believed the lies.

 

• I was furious that he could “get away with” deception and I had to have “my” reputation tarnished.
• I thought about trying to convince other people that this guy was lying, but it seemed hopeless.
• I wondered how many other people have gotten hurt because stories were “spun” in a certain way to ruin reputations and shift power.

 

Jude, human brother of JESUS, reminds everyone that the LORD not only sees wrong, but does something about it. He gave examples of how GOD used HIS power to address wrongs that had gone on for long periods of time. He also reminds everyone that GOD is still watching.

 

My Observations:

• GOD sees the sins I do and gives me plenty of time to confess my sins and turn from them.
• GOD’s grace covers a multitude of sins, BUT HE still wants me to turn from them so I can see HIM and hear HIM.
• GOD sees those who manipulate words, hide malice in their hearts, use divisive ways and who flat out lie and HE has already decided what wrath HE has for them.

 

It’s not them I need to be concerned with, rather, I need to be good with GOD. I mean, when I look back on times that people have lied to get positions, power or praise, I can also see that GOD may allow a season that seems, to the liar, that he or she is “getting away” with things, but they are not.

 

GOD see my sins and yours. HE sees the sins of those who try ti cause harm and who may even be fooling themselves. GOD sees the hearts of mankind and wants to repair hearts of stone, turning them into a soft area HE can live in. I gladly take HIS reminder that HE is in control of all situations, even the ones that seem out of control.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer use the examples in this passage?
• Have you ever seen a situation that seemed out of control, come to order?
• Will you place your trust in GOD, knowing HE has the situation where deception seems to be winning, but it really is not because HE is in control always?

Situation Handled

Situation Handled

2 Peter 2: False prophets appeared in the past among the people, and in the same way false teachers will appear among you. They will bring in destructive, untrue doctrines, and will deny the Master who redeemed them, and so they will bring upon themselves sudden destruction. ² Even so, many will follow their immoral ways; and because of what they do, others will speak evil of the Way of truth. ³ In their greed these false teachers will make a profit out of telling you made-up stories. For a long time now their Judge has been ready, and their Destroyer has been wide awake!

 

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After being lied on, I felt worried that people would not be able to believe my side of the story. I laid awake trying to think of ways to make the truth known, I approached someone to ask for advice. “How do I fight this liar?” “You don’t.” was his tough to hear reply. But it was followed by “GOD sees what is going on and HE has the situation under control.”

 

• I wanted to expose the false statements.
• I wanted to be the one to expose the liar.
• I wanted “my” name cleared so I could keep doing what I was doing.

 

Peter begins with a warning to believers that false teachers will slip in amongst them and tell lies for money. Peter may have observed that these slick and polished speakers would be hard to get rid of because they spoke to desperate people who craved their lies. He, himself denied JESUS and witnessed Judas betray HIM. He repented and warned everyone.

 

My Observations:

• GOD’s word is precious and pure and should be used to bring people to a saving relationship with HIS SON.
• There will be false teachers who preach for money, who could care less about making up stories to keep the crowd entertained.
• GOD wants me to know HE has the situation under control.

 

Noisy liars seem to get their way. I mean, we see examples of very wealthy people telling lies to keep their profits and maybe even oppress various groups of people. Meanwhile, those in need seem to be in trouble without a way. BUT GOD has “The WAY.”

 

JESUS said, “I AM the way and the truth and the life.” This is the true doctrine to follow. Humans want people to follow false doctrines to amass a great wealth. Unfortunately, people will fall for it. BUT GOD wants you and me to follow HIM. I gladly worship JESUS in Spirit and truth.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think the writer brings up this warning?
• Have you ever been so desperate that you would listen to liars?
• Will you take a moment to see if you are listening to liars and turn to CHRIST who is the truth today?

Exposed

Exposed

Hebrews 4: ¹² The word of God is alive and active, sharper than any double-edged sword. It cuts all the way through, to where soul and spirit meet, to where joints and marrow come together. It judges the desires and thoughts of the heart. ¹³ There is nothing that can be hid from God; everything in all creation is exposed and lies open before his eyes. And it is to him that we must all give an account of ourselves.

 

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After the night of drunken sex, I put on my best suit and went to church. Maybe this would erase the guilt, was my motive for going. As I transitioned from Sunday School to morning service, a guy called me out. “We had fun at the club last night!” “Why did he have to be there?” was my thought!

 

• I didn’t want anyone to know that I went to clubs and had drunken sex.
• I had plenty of sins that I was planning to take to my grave.
• I felt embarrassed when I was exposed, but it turned out to be a relief.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, tells everyone about the power of the word of GOD. This is the revelation of how GOD interacts with humans, given through prophets, poets and priests. This revelation also includes the fact that everything in all creation is exposed to GOD.

 

My Observations

• There is nothing I can hide from GOD.
• The more I try to hide my sins, the harder it will be for me to confess them and to let go of them.
• GOD called the Pharisees “hypocrites” because they refused to expose their own sins.

 

It is real easy for me to tell others “You have sinned” but it is tougher for me to say in front of everyone “I have sinned and her is how I did it.” I mean, it just feels better when the spotlight is not on me when it comes to something yucky. But GOD sees my yuckiness and loves me anyway.

 

There is nothing I can hide from GOD. HE sees every thought that pops in my head and allows me to decide to choose HIS way or mine. HE gives me HIS word as a revelation to HIS love and I have, at my fingertips, a guide that brings me back to HIS love. I gladly expose my sins I still make mistakes on and believe they will not sting as much when I stand before HIM someday.

 

Challenge

• What does the writer say about “Purpose” in this passage?
• Have you ever done something wrong and felt so insecure about it that you plan on taking the hidden sin to your grave?
• Are things going wrong in your life and you don’t know why?
• Will you expose your heart to GOD and confess everything directly to JESUS so HE will be faithful and just to forgive you and cleanse you of all unrighteousness today?

Comes with a Guarantee

 

Comes with a Guarantee

Romans 4: ¹⁶ Therefore, the promise comes by faith, so that it may be by grace and may be guaranteed to all Abraham’s offspring—not only to those who are of the law but also to those who have the faith of Abraham. He is the father of us all. ¹⁷ As it is written: “I have made you a father of many nations.” He is our father in the sight of God, in whom he believed—the God who gives life to the dead and calls into being things that were not.

 

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Disappointed with the product I was using. I complained. But I looked on the container and saw a guarantee. I could return the product, no questions asked. I did return it and purchased a cheaper brand. This one did not have a guarantee. I used that product and it was much worse, only this time I could not return it. I underestimated the product with the guarantee.

 

• There have been times when I did not believe in guarantees.
• There have been times when I went after a substitute versus using the real thing.
• There have been times when I wondered how could something be guaranteed unless they knew the future.

 

Paul keeps going with his explanation of Abraham because many Jews tried to boast about heritage. Paul keeps trying to explain that it was not just Abraham’s faith that GOD would fulfill HIS promise to make him father of many nations, it was GOD’s faith.

 

• When GOD tells me a promise, HE has already seen the outcome.
• When GOD promises something to me HE has already seen the difficulties and cleared the path.
• When GOD says HE will do something great in my life, HE means it.

 

GOD does not say anything HE cannot do. HIS power is unstoppable. When HE says “I will be with you always”, my response should be “Thank YOU!” Unfortunately, I say, “Where are YOU LORD?” in times of trouble. GOD is not disappointed with me during these times of doubt.

 

HE knew I would not believe in HIM fully and try to make things happen under my own power. HE gently lets my plans fail and picks me up anyway. HIS promise to me is guaranteed and HE took no chance of letting me fail. HE saved me when I was not looking for HIM. I am glad HE guarantees HIS love for me.

 

• Do you doubt GOD?
• Do you feel GOD can leave you when you sin and return when you don’t?
• Will you put your full trust in the LORD and allow HIM to grow you so more faith can be added to you daily?

Secret Mission

Secret Mission

John 19: ³⁸ After this, Joseph of Arimathea, being a disciple of Jesus, but secretly, for fear of the Jews, asked Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus; and Pilate gave him permission. So he came and took the body of Jesus. ³⁹ And Nicodemus, who at first came to Jesus by night, also came, bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about a hundred pounds. ⁴⁰ Then they took the body of Jesus, and bound it in strips of linen with the spices, as the custom of the Jews is to bury. ⁴¹ Now in the place where He was crucified there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb in which no one had yet been laid. ⁴² So there they laid Jesus, because of the Jews’ Preparation Day, for the tomb was nearby.

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“Things have not been communicated, but we want you to run the division” were the words I was elated to hear. “But you cannot tell anyone” were the words I did not mind, but were rather constraining. I had to do everything covertly for fear of causing issues with the old leadership who was about to leave. It was very uncomfortable.

• Sometimes I had to operate secretly.
• Sometimes I had to keep the power given to me a secret.
• Sometimes I had to pretend I was one thing when I was really another thing.

Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus were high ranking officials in the community. Their belief in JESUS was a higher calling so they had to serve HIM undercover. They got HS body and placed HIM in a tomb meant for a king. They secretly spent a lavish amount  in reverence for our LORD.

• There are times when JESUS wants me to secretly serve HIM.
• There are times when JESUS sends me on a mission that cannot be openly shared.
• There are times when JESUS guides me to people who need to hear, but in secret.

There are people all over the globe who are serving JESUS in secret. I mean they cannot say they believe in JESUS as their Savior out loud for fear of persecution. BUT GOD knows their heart. HE sees their every move and is excited to bless them with every prayer they silently say. For those who cannot boldly open their mouths, you are heard by GOD.

• Are you in a position where you cannot boldly speak about GOD because you will be persecuted?
• Are you losing your faith because no one around you can hear about your belief in GOD?
• Will you keep your faith strong, knowing GOD sees you and hears you and loves you dearly?

Inside Knowledge

John 2: ²³ Now while he was in Jerusalem at the Passover Festival, many people saw the signs he was performing and believed in his name. ²⁴ But Jesus would not entrust himself to them, for he knew all people. ²⁵ He did not need any testimony about mankind, for he knew what was in each person.

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“I can’t do this” I exclaimed. “Yes you can” said another person. “I have seen you do other things more difficult than this” were the follow on words. I stopped and took a deep breath and put my face in the water. When I came up for air I said “I did it!” How did the person know I could hold my breath under water?

• Sometimes people know me better than I know myself.
• Sometimes people can see potential in me that I could not see.
• Sometimes people have an idea of what I can do based on their observation and experiences.

JESUS performed many miracles and people believed in HIM. But HE did not get comfortable with their belief, because HE knew what was in each person’s heart. HE knew that with some, the excitement would disappear when the slightest problem would occur in their lives.

• GOD knows my deepest fear and loves me anyway.
• GOD knows my hidden sins that I lock away and HE desires a relationship with me anyway.
• GOD knows my ugliest desires and is still excited to cleanse me of all unrighteousness.

JESUS is never surprised by my circumstance nor is HE stunned by my reaction. HE has taken all of my failures into account and still has the greatest plan for me that I could never have imagined. HE loves me in spite of me.

• What are you hiding?
• Do you think GOD will never forgive you?
• Will you stop thinking GOD’s love is limited and allow HIM to execute HIS wonderful plan HE has for you today?

Amazing Timing

Luke 22: ⁷ Then came the day of Unleavened Bread on which the Passover lamb had to be sacrificed. ⁸ Jesus sent Peter and John, saying, ‘Go and make preparations for us to eat the Passover.’

⁹ ‘Where do you want us to prepare for it?’ they asked.

¹⁰ He replied, ‘As you enter the city, a man carrying a jar of water will meet you. Follow him to the house that he enters, ¹¹ and say to the owner of the house, “The Teacher asks: where is the guest room, where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?” ¹² He will show you a large room upstairs, all furnished. Make preparations there.’

¹³ They left and found things just as Jesus had told them. So they prepared the Passover.

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“What a life-changing trip” I said to myself as I left my first missionary journey to a large city in a large country on a large continent. It was kind of sad to leave the people, especially the ones I had long conversations. Two years later I went back and was standing in a very populated place. Someone called out my name. It was a person I met two years prior.

• Many times I have run into someone I knew in a strange place at a strange time.
• Many times I have seen circumstances clear themselves up in amazing timing.
• Many times I have been at “the right place at the right time.”

JESUS gives precise instructions on a very random event. HE tells them to follow a guy with a jug of water on his head. There could have been twenty or thirty people doing this. Which one would be the right one? The disciples did has HE said and found everything just as HE said.

• JESUS says to me “I will take care of you.”
• JESUS says to me “MY timing is the best timing.”
• JESUS says to me “There are no coincidences, only MY power.”

GOD’s timing is amazing timing. I mean I have been in some pretty precarious positions and HE has never failed me. HE raises me up when I feel down. In this passage, another amazing timing thing happened. JESUS was being prepared as the sacrifice for mankind on the same day as the sacrifice of the Passover lamb. GOD has no coincidences in my life, only great plans.

• Have you seen GOD’s timing lately?
• Do you think coincidences happen in your life?
• Will you give GOD the credit HE deserves for guiding you in HIS plan HE has for you today?

Bright Future

Luke 1: ⁸ So it was, that while he was serving as priest before God in the order of his division, ⁹ according to the custom of the priesthood, his lot fell to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord. ¹⁰ And the whole multitude of the people was praying outside at the hour of incense. ¹¹ Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing on the right side of the altar of incense. ¹² And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him.

¹³ But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. ¹⁴ And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth. ¹⁵ For he will be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will also be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. ¹⁶ And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. ¹⁷ He will also go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, ‘to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children,’ and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”

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“You will never grow in this industry” said my professor as he was prepared to give me a failing grade. “Maybe his words would come true” I thought to myself. “Maybe the words of the teacher who believed in me were just a fantasy and I could never amount to anything” I added.

• There were times when I doubted my future.
• There were times when I did not believe amazing things could happen to me.
• There were times when I believed what the negative people said.

Zacharias met an angel and feared for his life. The angel rested his mind by telling him the future of his one and only son to be. The angel did not speak of the hurt John would face, rather he said John would be “Great in the sight of the LORD.”

• GOD wants me to believe I have a special purpose in life.
• GOD wants me to use my special purpose to turn many people to the LORD their GOD.
• GOD wants me to make ready HIS people for HIS return.

By human measures my future sometimes seems bleak. I have tried and failed at numerous things in my life. BUT GOD sees something different in me. HE fills me with HIS SPIRIT and gives me the ability to tell people that JESUS is the CHRIST who is my LORD and SAVIOR.

• Do you feel awkward and left out?
• Do you think you are not special?
• Can you stop measuring yourself by the world’s standards and allow GOD to use the powerful gifts and talents HE has given you for HIS purpose today?

Window Pane

Mark 10: ¹⁷ Now as He was going out on the road, one came running, knelt before Him, and asked Him, “Good Teacher, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?”

¹⁸ So Jesus said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God. ¹⁹ You know the commandments: ‘Do not commit adultery,’ ‘Do not murder,’ ‘Do not steal,’ ‘Do not bear false witness,’ ‘Do not defraud,’ ‘Honor your father and your mother.’”

²⁰ And he answered and said to Him, “Teacher, all these things I have kept from my youth.”

²¹ Then Jesus, looking at him, loved him, and said to him, “One thing you lack: Go your way, sell whatever you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, take up the cross, and follow Me.”

²² But he was sad at this word, and went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.

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 “Why did you do that?” a person inquired of me as they were trying to get to the bottom of my untruth. My lie was falling apart and I said something else that could not support the lie I had just told. They could see through my lies.

• People have seen right through my lies.
• People have looked at my face and knew I was not telling the truth.
• People have listened to a story I have said and quickly deciphered I was not telling the truth.

JESUS spoke to the rich man who seemed to be an achiever. The rich man’s words “Do” and “Inherit” shows he thought he could earn GOD’s approval. BUT JESUS saw right through HIM and told the rich man of only one fatal flaw, namely he was greedy.

• JESUS sees my heart and forgives my sin.
• JESUS sees my plans and alters them to bless me and others.
• JESUS sees my deepest desires and saves me anyway.

At one point I thought this story was only about greed, but it is much deeper than that. Pride, bitterness, hatred, lust, and envy are just some sins JESUS could have substituted in this message. If a murderer approached HIM, JESUS would have changed the action.

HE sees me desperately trying to achieve what HE has already done. JESUS has already forgiven me, already healed me and has already restored my soul back to HIM. HIS desire is that I open my eyes to HIS blessings daily because HE did it while seeing right through me.

• Are you trying to achieve GOD’s free gift of grace?
• Do you think you are in control of GOD’s love by your actions?
• Will you stop thinking your “level of good” merits you special favors from GOD?
• Can you start opening up your eyes to grace and spit out your bitterness?

Dilemma Answers

Matthew 21: ²³ Jesus entered the temple courts, and, while he was teaching, the chief priests and the elders of the people came to him. “By what authority are you doing these things?” they asked. “And who gave you this authority?”

²⁴ Jesus replied, “I will also ask you one question. If you answer me, I will tell you by what authority I am doing these things. ²⁵ John’s baptism—where did it come from? Was it from heaven, or of human origin?”

They discussed it among themselves and said, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ he will ask, ‘Then why didn’t you believe him?’ ²⁶ But if we say, ‘Of human origin’—we are afraid of the people, for they all hold that John was a prophet.”

²⁷ So they answered Jesus, “We don’t know.”

Then he said, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things.

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“Have the answer before you ask the question” was the advice of the person who seemingly had “made it.” I tried it and I could suddenly tell when a person was lying. He then told me I could use this as an advantage to put people in a dilemma they could not get out of.” Hmm, this may be a good idea” I thought to myself.

• There were times I listened to hear what politics were being played.
• There were times I tried to hear words so I could have a better political stance.
• There were times I would collect my position way before I met with “that” person.

Twisted thinking brings out twisted words. Trying to “think ahead” of GOD is very impossible, but that is what the Pharisees were trying to do. They tried to twist JESUS’s words against HIM so their questions were well thought out for their advantage.

JESUS saw right through their twisted plot and did not answer their question. HE knew they were not “with” HIM rather their questions were only collecting evidence against HIM.

• GOD wants me to ask questions that come from HIS words.
• GOD wants me to ask questions that inspire people to love HIM.
• GOD wants me to ask questions that enable people to be drawn to HIS love, not repel them.

Twisting words and acting political is not trait of GOD and HE doesn’t like it when I am trying to do the same. HE wants me to hold onto the truth HE gives me and then I don’t have to twist or mince words. HE leads me to a place that leads others to HIM.

• Are you twisting words for your gain?
• Are you manipulating the situation for yourself?
• Can you stop your political thinking and start bringing people to GOD today?

GOD Knows

Psalm 139: ¹³ For you created my inmost being;
    you knit me together in my mother’s womb.
¹⁴ I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
    your works are wonderful,
    I know that full well.

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²³ Search me, God, and know my heart;
    test me and know my anxious thoughts.
²⁴ See if there is any offensive way in me,
    and lead me in the way everlasting.

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Name calling was a pass time of the kids in my neighborhood. I was called “Captain Naps” because of my hair. I was called “Mr. Peabody” the cartoon dog because of my professor like glasses. I was called “Skinny Minnie” because of my frail stature. I was called “Holey Moly” because of the holes in my pants and the list goes on. The desire to fit in seemed so far away.

• There were times in my life where I felt I didn’t fit in.
• There were times in my life where I felt I didn’t measure up.
• There were times in my life where I felt I didn’t have the right people in my corner.

After childhood I matured and realized that people are fickle and I am in that crowd. One minute I praise someone, the next I have a rock in my hand ready to stone them. BUT GOD has grace.

• GOD created me exactly how HE wanted me to be.
• GOD knit me together in my mother’s womb meaning HE chose my parents.
• GOD made me fearfully and wonderfully and set my life on a path of purpose.

People can try to derail the purpose GOD has for me. I can buy into the negative poison that is spit at me or I can say “no!” GOD made me with a purpose, namely to proclaim the greatness of HIS SON and sometimes I use examples rather than words. GOD needs to search my heart on a daily basis to buffet my offensive ways so HE can keep my purpose focused on everlasting ways.

• Are you down on yourself?
• Do you wish you were born into a different family?
• Can you accept the fact that GOD made you exactly as you are and HE is excited about you?
• Will you live your life with purpose rather than being blown around by the winds of human perception?
• Will you praise GOD today for making your life have meaning?

HE Will Listen

Psalm 88: ¹ Lord, you are the God who saves me;
    day and night I cry out to you.
² May my prayer come before you;
    turn your ear to my cry.

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Phone staring was no longer my pass time. I had given up the job search and resolved in my mind that I would remain in the “Po-dunk” town I was in at the time. Looking back, the label I placed on the town was my problem. I had a specific lifestyle I was chasing when I looked for a job in the big city and because I wasn’t getting it I began to wonder if GOD loved me. I didn’t want to be around this group of people any longer. I wanted out!

• There are times where I ask for the wrong things.
• There are times in which my desires are centered on “me.”
• There are times where I am blinded by my own ambitions.

With a sigh and a slight pout I got back to work. Soon after I found excitement in serving at the church I was at. I started meeting people and found they were not so bad. In fact they needed GOD just as much as I did. I said I would become a Sunday school teacher there and then my phone rang. It was a job that I had not applied for.

• GOD wants me to want HIM more than I want other things.
• GOD wants me to elevate HIS needs over mine as much as I can.
• GOD wants to serve me so the more I can give to HIM the better our relationship grows.

Admitting my blindness to HIM is the first step. HE is the ONE who saves me from troubles, even the ones I put myself in. I must admit to HIM that I clearly do not know what is right for me so I need HIM to take the helm and guide me. I must place my prayer before HIM and align to HIS ways. The more I am in tune to HIS will, the less I will be disappointed.

• Are you asking GOD for something?
• Is your stubborn will getting in the way of hearing GOD?
• Can you curtail your desires for a minute and ask GOD to reshape them into HIS will for you?
• Will you ask GOD to take you on a new journey?

Planning for the Future

Psalm 61: ¹ Hear my cry, O God;
    listen to my prayer.

² From the ends of the earth I call to you,
    I call as my heart grows faint;
    lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
³ For you have been my refuge,
    a strong tower against the foe.

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What will they say about me at my funeral? I mean will they say that I worked hard and accumulated a great amount of wealth for myself? Will they say I had a wonderful title at whatever company? I wonder.

• Sometimes I chase pleasing the crowd.
• Sometimes I try to be what everyone else wants me to be.
• Sometimes I live to meet someone else’s expectations.

Getting accolades for being a corporate warrior sounds great on paper. I mean I received status, wealth and a little fame. But GOD called me out of this path and onto a new one. HE woke me up to see people who are in need and desires that I serve them with all my heart, no matter who they are or what they believe.

This is a different calling that leaves no legacy. I mean who will remember getting served or prayed for? With busy lives, people soon forget they received prayer and GOD granted them solitude. At the end of my life I desire more than a legacy.

• At the end of my life I want GOD so say “Well done my good and faithful servant.”
• At the end of my life I want GOD to wipe away my tears and point me to eternity.
• At the end of my life I want GOD to give me rewards that I never would have expected.

David recognized his need for GOD early. In order to be ready for a full life serving GOD, I have to start early. I have to begin dropping off the need to be dependent on the world and relying on GOD for direction and delivery. HE provides and HE has plans for me that are far greater than any I could have for myself. HE is my refuge and leads me to the rock upon which I can build my foundation.

• Are you tired?
• Do you feel you are working yourself to death?
• Have you given GOD a little time this week to serve who HE wants you to serve?
• Are you seeking a legacy to yourself or rewards in heaven?
• Will you serve someone today without the need to get an accolade here on earth?

I know what I know

Job 19: ²⁵ I know that my redeemer lives,
    and that in the end he will stand on the earth.

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I used to marvel at eloquent speakers. It seemed like words would flow from their lips so smoothly that any audience would be mesmerized. As I stood in front of my first audience in a speech class I could feel the audience slip away. What was in my mind wasn’t coming out of my mouth, well not as I wanted it to.

When I was challenged by a pastor to go out and tell people about CHRIST, I said “I don’t know the Bible and I am not a good speaker.” He said “What’s that got to do with it?”

• Sometimes I think I have to be someone else in order to be used by GOD.
• Sometimes I think I have to know it all and be polished in order to be used by GOD.
• Sometimes I think I have to do something very different in order to please GOD.

Quite honestly I think GOD is crazy. I mean HE couldn’t have meant to create the person I am. HE couldn’t have meant for me to have gone through life the way I did. HE couldn’t have meant for me to make mistakes on a minute by minute basis, right? Well…

• GOD made me for HIS purpose and it’s up to me to realize what that purpose is.
• GOD made me and said “Beautiful and wonderful” and it’s up to me to accept HIS glorious creativity in my person.
• GOD made me and knows my circumstances, situations and desires so it’s up to me to grab ahold of HIS ways and follow HIM until the end.

I’m not saying I am going to give up seeking GODLY perfection rather I will lighten up on myself which in turn may help me lighten up on others. I will now go out and teach about CHRIST without thinking I have to be perfect or have the right words all the time. In fact GOD said “I will give you the right words at the right time.” I may not know much, but I know what I know and GOD is pleased with it.

• Do you feel inadequate when it comes to your relationship with GOD?
• Are you focused on what someone else is doing rather than thanking HIM for HIS relationship with you?
• Can you praise HIM for making you the way HE made you?
• Will you ask HIM to share HIS purpose for you today?

Getting Stronger

Job 16: ⁹ Nevertheless, the righteous will hold to their ways,
    and those with clean hands will grow stronger.

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Sitting in the corner with my head down was how I felt many times. I mean life can deal out some vicious blows. My car was totaled at the time and work was not only clear across campus but I lived an additional half mile from the edge.  I had no money so I had to go to work. Then one day it rained. “Don’t go” popped in my mind. I wonder if I should have lied and called in sick.

• Sometimes I get tempted to cut corners.
• Sometimes I feel like doing things that are comfortable.
• Sometimes I lean towards little white lies that protect my way.

I took a deep breath and walked to work and found it wasn’t so bad. I found ways to get to work through buildings that would keep me semi dry and I could make it on time. Soon I enjoyed walking and I became stronger in my convictions about going to work. My boss saw that I was on time each day so he commended me.

• When I think no one is watching GOD is watching.
• When I think no one cares GOD cares.
• When I think no one is in my corner GOD holds me tight and no one can pluck me out of HIS hand.

GOD knows I will face adverse times, yet HE holds onto me tightly and with a loving grip. HE wants me to mature and face battles instead of running away and hiding. HE knows my weaknesses and has me doing exercises daily to strengthen areas in my life that aren’t so good. HE knows exactly what to take me through to make me stronger.

• Are you going through something?
• Does it all seem to be falling apart?
• Can you put your trust in GOD and depend on HIM?
• Will you lift your head up, get up and raise up your arms to praise GOD today?

GOD Understands

Job 10: ² I say to God: Do not declare me guilty,
    but tell me what charges you have against me.
³ Does it please you to oppress me,
    to spurn the work of your hands,
    while you smile on the plans of the wicked?

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In this New Year I begin my journey not blaming GOD.  As I continue in my daily reading, I noticed Job felt beat down and rightfully so. I mean he tried to do everything GOD said to do and he ended up without a family or possessions and sores from the top of his scalp to the soles on his feet. He could not rest.

I have never faced what he faced, yet there have been many times I felt as if GOD were standing over me with a bat, ready to club my head in. My questions would ring out.

• GOD “Why, oh why hast thou forsaken me?”
• GOD “Do I have to drink from this cup?”
• GOD “Do YOU have to turn YOUR back on me?”

Then I realized these were the same questions JESUS asked HIS FATHER. JESUS felt lost and forlorn just like I have at times. HE was misunderstood and slandered by HIS own. Avid church goers decided to kill HIM and follow corrupt people who were in power. It’s apparent GOD wants me to think differently this year.

• GOD wants me to throw away any bitterness towards HIM and others.
• GOD wants me to spit out my poisonous words towards HIM and others.
• GOD wants me to seek HIS kingdom first and all these things will be added to me.

This year GOD wants me to reach out to people and let them know they can always put their trust in HIM.

• Are you still dragging your poison into this year?
• Can you let go of the problems you had last year and wipe the slate clean?
• Will you look to GOD daily instead of looking months down the road?

But GOD saw it

1 Kings : At that time Abijah son of Jeroboam became ill, ² and Jeroboam said to his wife, “Go, disguise yourself, so you won’t be recognized as the wife of Jeroboam. Then go to Shiloh. Ahijah the prophet is there—the one who told me I would be king over this people. ³ Take ten loaves of bread with you, some cakes and a jar of honey, and go to him. He will tell you what will happen to the boy.” ⁴ So Jeroboam’s wife did what he said and went to Ahijah’s house in Shiloh.

Now Ahijah could not see; his sight was gone because of his age. ⁵ But the Lord had told Ahijah, “Jeroboam’s wife is coming to ask you about her son, for he is ill, and you are to give her such and such an answer. When she arrives, she will pretend to be someone else.”

⁶ So when Ahijah heard the sound of her footsteps at the door, he said, “Come in, wife of Jeroboam. Why this pretense? I have been sent to you with bad news. ⁷ Go, tell Jeroboam that this is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: ‘I raised you up from among the people and appointed you ruler over my people Israel.

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“Ink erasers were great inventions” I thought to myself as I tap danced my way into yet another free meal. I was very broke and living in an apartment.  I still had my student ID with the last meal sticker on it. The student in charge of the door barely paid attention to the sticker and didn’t notice the erasures of the marks denoting I had eaten already.

I loaded up my backpack with food and sometimes plates, forks and pepper shakers. I had “gotten away” with eating for free… or so I thought.

• When I think I got away with something, I am sadly mistaken.
• When I think I can hide something, I am foolish in my assumption.
• When I think no one will ever know, I am blind and will not succeed.

GOD knows my heart and sees every action. HE knows when I am trying to hide something and does the thing I don’t want HIM to do… HE makes my secret fully known!

• GOD shines light on my sins in public because HE cannot have anything hidden.
• GOD digs through the core of my heart and finds the insincere selfishness because my relationship with HIM has to be pure.
• GOD sees every situation I try to get myself into and allows me travel a path that goes away from HIS teachings.

When I think I can get away with something small, I try something bigger and bigger. Soon I find myself in a world of trouble that only GOD can get me out of. GOD wants me to stop at even the tiniest thought in order to move back on the correct path. I am glad GOD matured me to be able to do without rather than continuing down a destructive road.

• Are you trying to get away with something?
• Do you think your secret is really a secret with GOD?
• When is the last time you have taken inventory of “your” actions and given them to GOD?
• Can you begin to get on the road to maturity and truly confess to GOD?