Gifts Were Given

Gifts Were Given

Genesis 14: ¹⁸ Then Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine; he was the priest of God Most High. ¹⁹ And he blessed him and said:

 

“Blessed be Abram of God Most High,
Possessor of heaven and earth;
²⁰ And blessed be God Most High,
Who has delivered your enemies into your hand.”

 

And he gave him a tithe of all.

 

²¹ Now the king of Sodom said to Abram, “Give me the persons, and take the goods for yourself.”

 

²² But Abram said to the king of Sodom, “I have raised my hand to the Lord, God Most High, the Possessor of heaven and earth, ²³ that I will take nothing, from a thread to a sandal strap, and that I will not take anything that is yours, lest you should say, ‘I have made Abram rich’— ²⁴ except only what the young men have eaten, and the portion of the men who went with me: Aner, Eshcol, and Mamre; let them take their portion.”

 

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Upon Abram’s successful return, he was met by the King of Sodom to be thanked for getting all the stuff back. Abram was then met by Melchizedek king of Salem. He was the priest of GOD MOST HIGH. Abram gave Melchizedek a tenth of all that was taken from Sodom, Lot and all the people. He did this in front of the king of Sodom, who then asked for slaves.

 

My Observations:

• Abram chose to give a tenth of the “Plunder” to Melchizedek.
• Abram could have kept all the stuff for himself, but chose to give some of it away and the rest back to their owners.
• Abram then told the king of Sodom that he would not allow the thought of being made rich from a person who practiced evil against the LORD.

 

Gifts were given to Melchizedek; I believe because he followed GOD with all his heart. Melchizedek was a servant leader who GOD recognized as the first priest. He may have led the people through servant leadership and was therefore not invited to fight with the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah. Melchizedek did not ask for anything, instead offered a blessing over Abram.

 

Meanwhile, the King of Sodom was worried about stuff and slaves. Abram, through this action, set a precedence for giving that would later become a law to support the Levitical priests. Abel sacrificed an animal to GOD showing belief in GOD’s mercy. Abram was the first to give to a priest, because of the priest’s relationship with GOD.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD call Melchizedek a priest and mention him to Moses?
• Have you ever felt like you do not have enough?
• What is GOD asking you to do with your stuff?

Reverence and Awe

Reverence and Awe

Hebrews 12: ²⁸ Let us be thankful, then, because we receive a kingdom that cannot be shaken. Let us be grateful and worship God in a way that will please him, with reverence and awe; ²⁹ because our God is indeed a destroying fire.

 

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Hearing the eloquent words pour out of the speaker’s mouth, I was engaged. I could not get enough of this particular speaker. I purchased recordings and distributed them to as many people as possible.

 

• I was enamored.
• I admired every word of the speaker.
• I took action to tell others about the speaker.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, provides the a very different view of GOD that is quite disturbing. He says GOD is a “Consuming fire” or in this version a “Destroying fire.” Because of this, we need to worship HIM in reverence and awe.

 

My Observations:

• GOD is all seeing, all knowing and all-powerful.
• GOD is everywhere and I cannot escape HIM.
• GOD’s power should be revered and not taken lightly by me.

 

I should be a fan of GOD. I mean, I should like HIS style, HIS power and HIS timing. Unfortunately, I don’t like HIS style, the way HE uses HIS power or HIS timing. I easily get upset at GOD when HE doesn’t deliver me when and how I expect. Fortunately for me, HE is patient.

 

GOD deserves reverence and awe from me. HE can do anything, anytime and anywhere. By believing in JESUS, I have access to the Most High GOD. HE loves when I pray and rely on HIS power. I gladly surrender to HIM.

 

Challenge

• What does the writer mean by calling GOD a “Destroying” or “Consuming” fire?
• Have you ever seen something so powerful that it memorized everyone?
• Will you look at GOD as the all-powerful being HE is and align your reverence to HIM today?

Presence

Presence

Hebrews 12: ¹⁸ You have not come, as the people of Israel came, to what you can feel, to Mount Sinai with its blazing fire, the darkness and the gloom, the storm, ¹⁹ the blast of a trumpet, and the sound of a voice. When the people heard the voice, they begged not to hear another word, ²⁰ because they could not bear the order which said, “If even an animal touches the mountain, it must be stoned to death.” ²¹ The sight was so terrifying that Moses said, “I am trembling and afraid!”

 

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Music blared with a fast pace. Suddenly fireworks sizzled on stage. Then the speaker came out and delivered a riveting speech. “Wow!” I said to myself. At that point, I wanted to be like the speaker and started thinking of ways to mimic the style.

 

• I was impressed by the speaker’s presence.
• I was enamored by the fanfare.
• I got caught up in the show.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, attempted to explain the reaction of the Israelites when they were at mount Sinai.. They experienced the presence of GOD and were terrified! HIS holiness would not allow even a stray animal to touch the mountain.

 

My Observations:

• GOD’s presences is awesome and terrifying.
• GOD is absolutely holy and cannot have sin in HIS presence.
• JESUS washed away all my sins, which allows me into GOD’s presence.

 

Being centuries removed from the encounter Moses had with GOD makes me take it lightly. I mean, GOD terrified those who saw what HE did to the mountain, yet I am not terrified to take HIM to my sinful places. HE placed the HOLY SPIRIT, who also cannot stand sin, inside me.

 

GOD sees all, hears all and knows all I do. I should be terrified!. Fortunately for me, GOD understands and provides sufficient grace. HE withholds HIS wrath and provides for me every day. I am so glad GOD’s presence with me is gentle and forgiving, but I will someday see HIS true glory which is unimaginable.

 

Challenge

• What part of the writer’s illustration sticks out to you?
• Have you ever been impressed by someone with “presence?”
• Will you reflect on the power of GOD and imagine HIS presence, and make changes to how you approach today?

Reputation Faith

Reputation Faith

Hebrews 11: ³⁰ It was faith that made the walls of Jericho fall down after the Israelites had marched around them for seven days. ³¹ It was faith that kept the prostitute Rahab from being killed with those who disobeyed God, for she gave the Israelite spies a friendly welcome.

 

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“Let me see your paper” was said to me in a threatening tone. He knew my scrawny stature was no match for his brawn. I slid my paper closer to the edge and kept filling out the test. I was glad that was over. But then I heard him tell someone “You should sit by him next time.”

 

• I thought I was going to get beat up if I didn’t show my test.
• I was scared of the thugs reputation of beating people up.
• I was building a reputation of being a “scaredy cat” and a “professor” who could easily be pushed over and copied from.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, gave another example of faith. This time it was the faith of “reputation.” The Israelites had crossed the Red Sea and the Egyptians were drowned in it while chasing them. All of the surrounding nations heard about this miracle and feared the Israelites. But Rahab feared their GOD.

 

My Observations:

• I can walk all my life in fear or I can place my hope in GOD.
• I can focus on “my” reputation, or believe that GOD will deliver me when HE says HE would.
• I can do the wrong thing out of fear or believe that GOD will protect me even when the odds are against me.

 

GOD’s reputation is at stake, not mine. I mean, when HE says HE will do something, it is HIS reputation that is at stake. I do not have to defend anything GOD said HE would do. HE is the most powerful, most high and lives everywhere. HE sees all, knows all and is above all.

 

I can place my faith in HIS reputation when mine falters. If all around me label me as weak, GOD says “I AM strong and you are in MY family.” I gladly place my faith in GOD’s reputation for delivering me every time.

 

Challenge

• What reputations are mentioned by the writer?
• Have you ever felt mislabeled by other people?
• Will you put your trust in the LORD today who brings you through all situations for HIS purpose?

More Honor

More Honor

Hebrews 3: My Christian friends, who also have been called by God! Think of Jesus, whom God sent to be the High Priest of the faith we profess. ² He was faithful to God, who chose him to do this work, just as Moses was faithful in his work in God's house. ³ A man who builds a house receives more honor than the house itself. In the same way Jesus is worthy of much greater honor than Moses. 

 

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After working hard, I received an award for the thing my team built. It was state of the art and highly desired. Years later, it was mundane and complained about. I heard someone mention how difficult it was to update to the “newest” stuff.

 

• I felt great when I was on top.
• I did not feel as good when my name was associated with something that needed to be thrown away.
• I felt even worse when people felt “I” should be thrown away with the thing that was built.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, appeals to those who follow JESUS as their Savior. He knew people had elevated Moses to a place of honor because of the first five books of the bible. Moses had an amazing encounter with GOD and wrote out laws and history that was revealed to him. The writer says “JESUS is worthy of much greater honor than Moses.”

 

My Observations

• GOD sees me with more honor than the projects I complete.
• I am more valuable than the likes I get on social media.
• JESUS is the most valuable being whom I should follow.

 

Before I seek any honor, I must ask myself, “Have I given any honor to the one who created me?” Many times the answer is no. BUT GOD deserves more honor than the thing I am trying to build. HE gave  me gifts, abilities and talents to be able to accomplish whatever I would like.

 

HE guides me and leads me to do things I never would have dreamt of. HE deserves the honor whenever I accomplish something. I gladly give JESUS more honor than the latest project that will one day be outdated.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer compare JESUS to Moses?
• Have you ever felt valuable because of a project or something you did?
• Will you take some time to reassess your value so you can understand JESUS values you to the extreme, so maybe you can give HIM more honor today?

Highest Admiration

Highest Admiration

Ephesians 4: ⁹ Now, what does “he went up” mean? It means that first he came down to the lowest depths of the earth. ¹⁰ So the one who came down is the same one who went up, above and beyond the heavens, to fill the whole universe with his presence. 

 

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Reaching levels was a thing that was taught to me. One grade gave me golden stars for every level I achieved in reading. This thought of levels translated to types of work I did later in life. I admired those who were “above me” in level. I talked about him or her with high regard.

 

• I thought titles meant importance.
• I thought people were supposed to be treated differently because of their title or academic achievements.
• I thought power meant obtaining a following where people would grab onto every word “I” said.

 

Paul poses a tough question in the letter he wrote. “What does ‘HE went up’ mean?” was the poignant question to provoke thought. He then answers by explaining what JESUS taught him. He talked about levels.

 

My Observations

• JESUS, who was and is GOD, became a lowly human to die for me.
• JESUS sacrificial death and resurrection enabled HIM to be placed above everything.
• JESUS’s act of love is recognized by the entire universe.

 

It’s easy to admire or even envy other humans as gods. I mean, when I want to be somebody, I may look at what others consider somebody. I then try to be like him or her and fail miserably. I may sometimes achieve a level and think I am “above” people.

 

BUT GOD is the only one who is above all. No human level or achievement can match HIS greatness. HE knows all, sees all and is everywhere. JESUS was given the highest honor of being placed above all. I bow down to JESUS who is my Savior.

 

Challenge

• What levels is the writer speaking about?
• Have you ever admired someone because of his or her title or accomplishments?
• Will you place a higher admiration on the one who is above race, gender and situations, namely JESUS, today?

Above All

Above All

Ephesians 1:  ²¹ Christ rules there above all heavenly rulers, authorities, powers, and lords; he has a title superior to all titles of authority in this world and in the next. ²² God put all things under Christ's feet and gave him to the church as supreme Lord over all things. ²³ The church is Christ's body, the completion of him who himself completes all things everywhere.

 

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Above all seems unfathomable. Above every situation, every trial, above every thing that seems to go right or wrong? Yes. Above it all!

 

This weekend we celebrate the resurrection of JESUS who is GOD who became a human to allow HIMSELF to be murdered for the sins of the world. HE was raised by the SPIRIT and the FATHER placed all things under HIM.

 

HE now holds every situation, past, present and future. All hurts and celebrations belongs to HIM. All things are complete.

 

Enjoy this weekend of worshipping our LORD and Savior JESUS, who is the CHRIST!

Value Proposition

Value Proposition

1 Corinthians 9: ⁸ I don't have to limit myself to these everyday examples, because the Law says the same thing. ⁹ We read in the Law of Moses, “Do not muzzle an ox when you are using it to thresh grain.” Now, is God concerned about oxen? ¹⁰ Didn't he really mean us when he said that? Of course that was written for us. Anyone who plows and anyone who reaps should do their work in the hope of getting a share of the crop. ¹¹ We have sown spiritual seed among you. Is it too much if we reap material benefits from you? ¹² If others have the right to expect this from you, don't we have an even greater right?

 

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Armed with a set of clubs purchased from Goodwill, I set out to learn how to play golf. Though I dreaded this path, I finally conceded. “You are going to use those?” questioned a colleague. He then urged me to purchase a name brand set of clubs and see his pro for lessons. “This is worth it because I will be playing golf with the higher ups” I said to myself.

 

• Many times I weighed the “value” of doing things.
• Many times I played out the “value” of my time to see if what I was doing was “worth it.”
• Many times I placed “value” on things that would make me more money.

 

Paul mentions something many people do not like to hear. Basically he raises the question, “Should those who preach about the Gospel of JESUS be paid?” He just finished answering some difficult questions about true service to the LORD and is now he is trying to mature everyone on placing value in supporting people who give their lives to GOD.

 

• GOD wants me to place the highest value on HIS word.
• GOD wants me to learn and teach HIS word.
• GOD wants me to value those who learn and teach HIS word.

 

Sharing my “material benefits” with those who preach and teach GOD’s word, needs to be at the forefront of my thinking. I mean, the same value I put into learning an industry that will make me money, needs to be placed on those who give their lives to humbly live for GOD’s service.

 

GOD places value on HIS word being “sown”, why shouldn’t I? The world values GOD less and less. BUT GOD sees when I place value in HIM, HIS SON and the leading of the HOLY SPIRIT. I am grateful GOD values me, so I value HIM and those HE sent.

 

• Where do you place your value?
• How much time do you spend talking about what is valuable to you?
• Will you shift your value to hearing GOD and supporting those who teach and preach HIS word today?

More than information

More than information

John 13: 31 So, when he had gone out, Jesus said, “Now the Son of Man is glorified, and God is glorified in Him. 32 If God is glorified in Him, God will also glorify Him in Himself, and glorify Him immediately. 33 Little children, I shall be with you a little while longer. You will seek Me; and as I said to the Jews, ‘Where I am going, you cannot come,’ so now I say to you. 34 A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. 35 By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.”

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“Please give us your bio” said an organization to me. Since there was a word limit, I could only put down the information that pertained to the inquiring group. After I spoke to the group, a person approached me. “Oh, you are the person who does… (blank)” She remembered a few items I had written in my bio, but I was so much more than what was written.

• I have been labeled by lazy people.
• I have been boiled down to a few actions from the labels people give me.
• I have been shoved in a corner by the labels people give me.

JESUS begins giving HIS disciples HIS final commands. HE speaks about “the being” who is GOD. HE explains that the FATHER has raised HIM up to the Most High, because the FATHER is the Most High with the HOLY SPIRIT, who is also the Most High.

Since they are the highest and have shown love, we should do the same. But is showing love simply going to a building and listening to information?

• GOD wants me to experience HIM every day.
• GOD wants me to “be” HIS example by showing love to those HE sends to me or I am sent to.
• GOD wants me to know HE is far more than what is written down or spoken by humans.

“Love one another as I have loved you” means more than listening to someone talk about GOD. It means I believe the consequences of pride caused the fall of humans. This fall could only be cured by belief in JESUS dying for me.

I now have sided with the one who wants all humans back, even those with stubborn hearts. Only love can penetrate the stony heart. I am glad GOD loves me .

• Have you labeled GOD as something to try every once in a while?
• Do you see HIM as a being, who can only do a few magic tricks, as written in a bio named the Bible?
• Will you experience GOD’s power, by loving HIM enough, to love those who hate you today?

Elevate

Elevate

John 8: ²³ And He said to them, “You are from beneath; I am from above. You are of this world; I am not of this world. ²⁴ Therefore I said to you that you will die in your sins; for if you do not believe that I am He, you will die in your sins.”

²⁵ Then they said to Him, “Who are You?”

And Jesus said to them, “Just what I have been saying to you from the beginning. ²⁶ I have many things to say and to judge concerning you, but He who sent Me is true; and I speak to the world those things which I heard from Him.”

²⁷ They did not understand that He spoke to them of the Father.

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Looking for a promotion, I followed what was important to some of the higher-ups. I asked questions, listening for their concerns. I sat and thought of solutions to ensure they were successful. It worked! They promoted me to a higher level. Now, I had to do it again with the next level up.

• Many times I looked at people as being on a higher level.
• Many times I treated people with titles differently than others.
• Many times I assumed that people with certain titles were smarter, stronger and wiser than others.

JESUS puts the church leaders in their place by saying “You are from beneath; I AM from above.” HE then explains that HE is GOD and is not of this cursed world, but they were. HE doomed them to die eternally in their sins, but gave them a way to succeed… believe in HIM.

• JESUS wants me to believe that HE is GOD.
• JESUS wants me to believe that HE took care of all my problems.
• JESUS wants me to believe that birth was the beginning of eternity and my choice to believe in HIM guides where I will spend it.

Elevating JESUS is extremely important. HE chose to die for my sins as the ultimate demonstration of love. HE only asks that I believe I need HIM otherwise I would die in my sins. HE sent the HOLY SPIRIT to live in me because I believe in HIM. The FATHER sends me because HE is pleased with the way HE cleaned me up. I am grateful HE is GOD and I elevate HIM.

• How do you view GOD?
• Is GOD very common to you?
• Do you easily blame GOD or treat HIM like HE only deserves a little attention?
• Will you give more of your life to HIM and elevate HIM to GOD versus placing the constraints you have on HIM today?

Successful Roles

John 6: ¹⁴ Then those men, when they had seen the sign that Jesus did, said, “This is truly the Prophet who is to come into the world.”

¹⁵ Therefore when Jesus perceived that they were about to come and take Him by force to make Him king, He departed again to the mountain by Himself alone.

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Desperate for a promotion, I asked leadership if I could take on the new role that was posted. I had no experience or even exposure to the new position, but I figured I could quickly learn and perhaps perform well. “Let’s put you in a role you can be successful in” they said.

• There were times when I misjudged the importance of roles.
• There were times when I could only see certain roles from my limited way I thought about them.
• There were times when I thought less of certain roles than I should have.

Seeing the miracle JESUS had just performed, the crowd got excited. They desired a leader who could defy all human knowledge and perform miracles “for” them on command. JESUS saw their hearts and slipped away, alone.

• GOD wants me to see HIM as GOD.
• GOD wants me to bow to HIM as the Most High.
• GOD wants me to accept HIS role as GOD who gave up HIS life to save me.

Becoming a limited political placeholder was not what JESUS had in mind when HE became a human. HE wanted to redeem all humans who would believe they needed saving. This was a difficult role as it required HIM to give up HIS own life and accept blame for all of my sins.

HE willingly did this and never once sinned against the rules HE gave to humans in the first place. JESUS did not want to become a political leader like small minded humans desired. JESUS wanted to be my Savior. I am grateful GOD had bigger plans for the world.

• What are you trying to make GOD into?
• Do you try to make HIM so small that HE is powerless?
• Will you allow GOD to be GOD in your life instead of a being you blame your problems on today?

In Charge

In Charge

John 5: ¹⁹ Then Jesus answered and said to them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, but what He sees the Father do; for whatever He does, the Son also does in like manner. ²⁰ For the Father loves the Son, and shows Him all things that He Himself does; and He will show Him greater works than these, that you may marvel. ²¹ For as the Father raises the dead and gives life to them, even so the Son gives life to whom He will. ²² For the Father judges no one, but has committed all judgment to the Son, ²³ that all should honor the Son just as they honor the Father. He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent Him.

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Desiring to be heard, I scheduled a meeting with my bosses boss. In the meeting I expressed my idea and my concerns. Listening intently, the person took in all of my words. They replied, “Did you talk to your boss about this?” I did not know how to reply. I mean I did not believe in my boss enough to convey the message correctly, and besides why couldn’t I come to the head of the department directly?

• There were times when I was immature with my approach.
• There were times when I thought “my” way needed to be heard.
• There were times when I felt I should be able to go right to the top with my ideas, thoughts and complaints.

JESUS makes HIS position very clear to the church leaders. HE pretty much says “I AM GOD” as HE explains how much the FATHER loves HIM and shows HIM all things. HE also makes it very clear that judgment is all HIS. Anyone who speaks about “GOD” must speak about the SON who is GOD.

• JESUS wants me to recognize that HE is GOD.
• JESUS wants me to recognize that the FATHER has given HIM all power.
• JESUS wants me to recognize that the HOLY SPIRIT has been sent by HIM and I should pay attention to HIS voice as well.

FATHER, SON and HOLY SPIRIT are GOD all in one. There is no separation that I can understand. Three unique beings work together in one as one. But somehow one volunteered to die for me.

It must have hurt to say “Okay, if YOU want to save all of the humans, YOU must become one, be blameless and accept all of their blame.” JESUS said “Yes, I will accept the blame for all their sin.” HE got that kind of grace from HIS FATHER. I only hope I can get a little grace from the both of them.

• Do you think there are many paths to GOD?
• Are you trying to ignore JESUS?
• Will you allow JESUS to be in charge of your soul and accept HIS wonderful gift of eternal salvation today?

Significance

Luke ²⁶ Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, ²⁷ to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. ²⁸ And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!”

²⁹ But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. ³⁰ Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. ³¹ And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus. ³² He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. ³³ And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.”

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“This is my chance” I said to myself many times in my search for significance stage. As I grabbed the mic, I stood in front of the judges and confidently gave my audition. I stayed and watched the next person because I just wanted to see who would lose to me. The person was significantly better than me.

• There were times when I sought significance amongst humans.
• There were times when I wanted humans to place esteemed labels on me above other humans.
• There were times when I searched for significance in what I did.

“Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!” this ultra-scary being said to Mary. She was a poor and unknown person who may not have done anything worth noting in the community. By all accounts Mary would at best be labeled “regular.” BUT GOD said something different.

• GOD says to me “I made you for MY purpose.”
• GOD says to me “I created you with a purpose that only you can do.”
• GOD says to me “I rescued you out of MY grace and mercy so you can show others the same.”

The only significant one is JESUS. My name can remain unknown. HE grows me to point others to HIM and not to myself. HE doesn’t want me crowding the news, grabbing all the attention.

HE wants me to say “HE is great. HE is the SON of the HIGHEST. HE is the ONE who has the throne. HE is the ruler of the kingdom that has no end.”  My significance comes in pointing to the ONE who is truly significant.

• Are you looking for the spotlight?
• Do you seek significance in your title or your job or amongst your family?
• Can you stop thinking you are insignificant and start pointing to the ONE who is truly significant, namely JESUS?

Following

Mark 11: ⁷ Then they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their clothes on it, and He sat on it. ⁸ And many spread their clothes on the road, and others cut down leafy branches from the trees and spread them on the road. ⁹ Then those who went before and those who followed cried out, saying:

“Hosanna!

‘Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!’

¹⁰ Blessed is the kingdom of our father David

That comes in the name of the Lord!

Hosanna in the highest!”

¹¹ And Jesus went into Jerusalem and into the temple. So when He had looked around at all things, as the hour was already late, He went out to Bethany with the twelve.

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TV celebrities never really excited me. When a star, athlete or someone else famous was in the same room, I may have gotten an autograph but did not care. “The CEO is coming to your meeting” someone told me one day. My heart raced and I stayed awake planning for days. I guess I was affected by famous people.

• There were times when I followed certain humans.
• There were times when I wished humans would follow me.
• There were times when I recognized powerful people and raised them up on a pedestal.

By this time the fame of JESUS has spread throughout the region. HE healed people with ailments that had lingered for decades. HIS humble, servant approach was quite different from the church leaders. HE had people following HIM that did not even know exactly why they were following HIM.

• JESUS says to me “Follow ME and I will guide you to eternal peace.”
• JESUS says to me “Follow ME and I will lead you beside still waters and restore you.”
• JESUS says to me “Follow ME for I will be with you always.”

One main reason to follow JESUS versus following a human is HE never falls and never fails. Humans will disappoint me constantly. I will disappoint someone in the next five minutes. BUT GOD never fails. HE is the highest and no one is greater! I follow JESUS because HE provides something no other can provide… hope.

• Are you trying to get people to follow you?
• Are you following a lot of people?
• Can you start follow JESUS by looking at HIS examples today?

Common Treatment

Mark 9: ⁹ Now as they came down from the mountain, He commanded them that they should tell no one the things they had seen, till the Son of Man had risen from the dead. ¹⁰ So they kept this word to themselves, questioning what the rising from the dead meant.

¹¹ And they asked Him, saying, “Why do the scribes say that Elijah must come first?”

¹² Then He answered and told them, “Indeed, Elijah is coming first and restores all things. And how is it written concerning the Son of Man, that He must suffer many things and be treated with contempt? ¹³ But I say to you that Elijah has also come, and they did to him whatever they wished, as it is written of him.”

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Relaxed, I responded with a hug to a person I recognized. I was interviewing to be fast-tracked and I did not know every step I took was being watched. Though I answered the questions well, I did not get the position.

• There were times when I treated the higher ups as common.
• There were times when I treated my boss’s boss as regular.
• There were times when I treated people with a higher level, with contempt.

JESUS warns HIS disciples not to tell that they saw Elijah and Moses. They kept their promise and questioned the scribes teaching that Elijah must come first as prophesied by Malachi. JESUS explained that Elijah had come and was treated as common, just like all to other prophets and JESUS HIMSELF.

• I should treat JESUS with reverence instead of commonplace.
• I should look at GOD as GOD, not as a genie or swear word.
• I should view what JESUS did as awesome incredible, not boring forgetful.

GOD becoming man is something that should be discussed daily. Sometimes I forget to even think of GOD due to my mind being pulled towards the worries of the world. BUT GOD reminds me of HIS presence and I appreciate what HE has done.

• Are you treating GOD as common?
• Do you use HIS name I vain?
• Can you talk to HIM with the reverence HE deserves today?

Life’s Elevator

Matthew 23: ⁵ “Everything they do is done for people to see: They make their phylacteries wide and the tassels on their garments long; ⁶ they love the place of honor at banquets and the most important seats in the synagogues; ⁷ they love to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces and to be called ‘Rabbi’ by others.

⁸ “But you are not to be called ‘Rabbi,’ for you have one Teacher, and you are all brothers. ⁹ And do not call anyone on earth ‘father,’ for you have one Father, and he is in heaven. ¹⁰ Nor are you to be called instructors, for you have one Instructor, the Messiah. ¹¹ The greatest among you will be your servant. ¹² For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.

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“Making it” was top of mind. I tried not to step on people, but if a person got in my way, they were in trouble. I did get the title and it felt great to have the “respect.”

• Seeking places of honor can sometimes make me blind.
• Seeking to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces can sometimes puff up my head.
• Seeking a title or a position of status can sometimes lead me to think I am better than I am.

JESUS makes it clear that HE is the only instructor and the FATHER is the only father. Anyone who seeks to have the spotlight on themselves in the church will be knocked down.

• GOD wants me to humble myself so HE will not have to.
• GOD wants me to humble myself so HE can use me HIS way.
• GOD wants me to humble myself so HE can exalt me.

When I am in a humble position I celebrate more. I mean when GOD raises me up, even a little, I am thankful and I cheer. On the other hand, when I seek a title that I feel I “deserve” and do not get it, I pout and life is quite miserable. GOD wants me to be a servant no matter what title or position HE gives me. Serving others as HE served me is the highest honor!

• Are you trying to get a title?
• Do you feel you “deserve” better in life?
• Can you seek to serve rather trying to exalt yourself?

GOD Protects Me

Psalm 3: ³ But you, Lord, are a shield around me,
    my glory, the One who lifts my head high.
⁴ I call out to the Lord,
    and he answers me from his holy mountain.

⁵ I lie down and sleep;
    I wake again, because the Lord sustains me.
⁶ I will not fear though tens of thousands
    assail me on every side.

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Laughing and joking was our way to unwind from the precarious day at school. The two of us were in the home stretch and knew the schedule well. We figured that if we got off the bus one stop earlier, then we could start our mile walk home, that is unless another bus were to come.

A thug called for us to stop. We kept going. Then another appeared from nowhere. We looked at each other and took off in separate directions. I conveniently ran to where I worked, which is amazing that I was that close in the first place and my friend ran into the supermarket who’s parking lot we were crossing. I asked my boss to call the cops and when it was clear, my friend and I connected and walked home.

• Many times I have faced some very dangerous situations.
• Many times I have been surrounded with problems on every side.
• Many times I have seen assailants come up against me.

I have no idea why there are those who think they can rob, assault or kill, but they exist. Sometimes the question is, “Why does GOD allow me to be robbed, assaulted or on the brink of being killed?” Here is what I have noticed in my life.

• GOD has put a shield around me in some very dangerous situations and I am still here.
• GOD is the ONE who lifts my head high when I call on HIM.
• GOD is the one who sustains me when I falter.
• GOD protects me on all sides even though many foes may surround me.

I have been robbed, punched, bullied and bruised; BUT GOD protected me the entire way! HE surrounded me so many times that I cannot begin to count. GOD is my salvation!

• Are you surrounded by something that is causing you to worry?
• Do you have something or someone who has caused you fear?
• Can you thank GOD for protecting you?
• Will you rely on GOD’s protection rather than living in fear?

Bargaining With GOD

Job 30: ²⁴ “Surely no one lays a hand on a broken man
    when he cries for help in his distress.
²⁵ Have I not wept for those in trouble?
    Has not my soul grieved for the poor?

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Clutching my chest I wailed in agony. I lived alone and no one could drive me to see the doctor. I had to get there myself. I thought I was having a heart attack. “I will never do that again” whatever “that” sin was at the time. The pain persisted. “I’ll go to church and I’ll be good.” The pain persisted.

I went into the doctor’s office and found I had a bruised sternum that resulted from some new exercise I was doing. “Man! I shouldn’t have made that promise.”

• When I bargain with GOD I have no intent of keeping my side of the promise.
• When I bargain with GOD it’s usually because I am not focused on HIM in the first place.
• When I bargain with GOD I am not accepting HIS supremacy.

When things go wrong in my life I ask GOD, “Haven’t I been good, what about those bad people, haven’t I served?” Meanwhile I look at GOD like HE is the problem. BUT GOD looks at the situation different.

• GOD wants me to understand that I have consequences for my actions even though I am forgiven for sin.
• GOD wants me to realize HIS way is the only way and I should not have a problem with HIS way.
• GOD wants me to ask HIM to show me HIS path rather than bargaining my way down my path.

If I have been “good” then GOD will know. HE gives me rewards stored up in heaven that cannot be touched by the evil one. HE guides my path through calamities and raises me up at the right time. HE is my rock and my salvation.

• Are you bargaining with GOD?
• Do you think you are being punished?
• Can you look at GOD as your guide and LORD of your life?
• Will you accept where HE has you and ask for guidance down HIS path?

Grant Me an Ear

Nehemian 1: ¹¹ Lord, let your ear be attentive to the prayer of this your servant and to the prayer of your servants who delight in revering your name. Give your servant success today by granting him favor in the presence of this man.”

I was cupbearer to the king.

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You should go see the President of the company one person suggested. My problem was I didn’t understand why or how I was going to do that. I was new in my post and trying to make my way through the fog. I timidly walked over to the administrative assistant and asked for time on the calendar. To my surprise I got an appointment.

Nervous and almost shaking, I sat outside the office of the President trying to think of what I was going to say. I honestly didn’t believe the President would want to see me.

• Power has a strange way of blinding me of my ability.
• Power has a strange way of deafening me to the truth.
• Power has a strange way of dumbing my thoughts into thinking one person is “better” than the next.

GOD is “no respect of persons” meaning HE can leverage what humans would consider the lowest person to do great things. My confidence was shaken when I placed senior management on a pedestal. It’s not that I shouldn’t respect their accomplishments or their office. The problem was I put them over GOD by placing my trust in them.

• GOD wants me to focus on HIM rather than worrying about humans.
• GOD wants me to praise HIM rather than thinking humans can raise souls out of debauchery.
• GOD wants me to serve HIM with acknowledgement of sin, prayer and praise.

There is no other human who can save me outside of JESUS. Yes, I need humans to survive, but my trust has to be in GOD. Those who seek power will only find it in GOD. HE repays.

• Are you trying to gain power?
• Do you feel like you would be better off if you aligned yourself with the “correct” side?
• Can you stop focusing on the power of humans and focus on GOD’s great might and authority?