Fear Introduced to Salvation

Fear Introduced to Salvation

Exodus 14: ¹⁰ And when Pharaoh drew near, the children of Israel lifted their eyes, and behold, the Egyptians marched after them. So they were very afraid, and the children of Israel cried out to the Lord. ¹¹ Then they said to Moses, “Because there were no graves in Egypt, have you taken us away to die in the wilderness? Why have you so dealt with us, to bring us up out of Egypt? ¹² Is this not the word that we told you in Egypt, saying, ‘Let us alone that we may serve the Egyptians’? For it would have been better for us to serve the Egyptians than that we should die in the wilderness.”

 

¹³ And Moses said to the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord, which He will accomplish for you today. For the Egyptians whom you see today, you shall see again no more forever. ¹⁴ The Lord will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace.”

 

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When the millions of people saw the hundreds of chariots coming in the distance, they panicked. First they cried out to the LORD. Then they turned to Moses and blamed him for bringing them out of Egypt. Moses calmly told the people to “Stand still.”

 

My Observations:

• The children of Israel had a slave mindset that kept them from dreaming, solving problems for themselves or fighting.
• The children of Israel wanted complacent, controlled pain versus facing the unknown with GOD.
• Moses did not rebuke the children of Israel for being afraid.

 

Before the plagues, Moses and Aaron showed the children of Israel what GOD was going to do to the Egyptians. They all believed and praised GOD. But when Pharaoh took away their straw and kept the quota of bricks, they complained about Moses and GOD’s desire to free them. Their expectations of what GOD was going to do were not being met.

 

After the plagues, they were driven out of Egypt. They left excited. But when Pharaoh pursued them, they immediately were filled with fear. Six hundred thousand men were afraid of six hundred men. Moses did not yell. He calmly told them to “Stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord,.” He also said GOD would fight the battle and the problem would not happen again. GOD would take care of their fear.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD remind Moses about the reaction of the children of Israel to Pharaoh’s pursuit?
• Have you ever blamed GOD for how he is delivering you?
• Can you stand still and see the salvation of the LORD that will happen today so you can hold your peace?

 

Prayer

Dear LORD, thank YOU for helping us slow down, sit down and lay down. GOD the battle is YOURS. Please fight the battle that tries to rob us of our peace. Please go before us as we place our fragile trust before YOUR throne. amen

Broader Belief

 

Broader Belief

Genesis 22: ³ So Abraham rose early in the morning and saddled his donkey, and took two of his young men with him, and Isaac his son; and he split the wood for the burnt offering, and arose and went to the place of which God had told him. ⁴ Then on the third day Abraham lifted his eyes and saw the place afar off. ⁵ And Abraham said to his young men, “Stay here with the donkey; the lad and I will go yonder and worship, and we will come back to you.”

 

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After hearing something from GOD that seemed strange, Abraham was at peace. He was able to sleep as he normally did and woke up the next morning ready to do what GOD said. HE communicated with the LORD that morning, so he knew GOD was guiding him. He took two witnesses with him and traveled three days to the place GOD told him to go.

 

My Observations:

• Three days is similar to JESUS’ death burial and resurrection timing.
• Abraham knew GOD’s promise of making a nation through Isaac, so he believed GOD would bring him back from the dead somehow.
• Abraham told the witnesses “we will come back to you”, showing he had total belief in GOD’s power to create life or raise his son from the dead.

 

Sacrifice your only son would be a strange request to you and me. But this was the only time GOD told any human to do this. It does not seem that GOD was testing Abraham to see what he would do, because HE knew what he would do. This strange request seemed more like an announcement of something greater to come.

 

“We will come back to you” shows Abraham’s total faith in GOD. Only one human needed to show this example, so GOD is not asking others to kill someone to show their allegiance with HIM. BUT GOD does seem to want us to believe in HIS plan to the point that we know HE will come through, even if the dream HE gave us looks like it would have to die.

 

It was not the willingness to sacrifice Isaac that is amazing, rather the belief that GOD would restore Isaac to fulfill HIS promise.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about Abraham’s preparation to sacrifice Isaac?
• Did GOD promise you something that has you thinking you know what HE is doing when you may not?
• Are you willing to believe broader than your thoughts, knowing GOD can and will do the impossible to reach HIS plan through you?

Mapped Out

Mapped Out

Genesis 2: ¹⁰ Now a river went out of Eden to water the garden, and from there it parted and became four riverheads. ¹¹ The name of the first is Pishon; it is the one which skirts the whole land of Havilah, where there is gold. ¹² And the gold of that land is good. Bdellium and the onyx stone are there. ¹³ The name of the second river is Gihon; it is the one which goes around the whole land of Cush. ¹⁴ The name of the third river is Hiddekel it is the one which goes toward the east of Assyria. The fourth river is the Euphrates.

 

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Names of areas and rivers is the first thing I noticed. The great river that supplied four other rivers, had a purpose of watering the garden “in” Eden. GOD showed Moses the four rivers and told him the names. HE also showed him gold and precious stones.

 

My Observations:

• GOD made the rivers gentle enough to water the garden without destroying it.
• GOD made the rivers shallow enough for humans to walk in them without pain or fear of drowning.
• GOD made the great river flow from the area called Eden which provided life to the tree of life and the tree of knowledge of good and evil.

 

Every area was made as a gift for humans. Gentle rivers, beautiful trees, different landscapes, all provided a variety of experiences for humans. GOD was pleased to provide variety and shared precious stones with humans. The area was now complete. It was ready for humans to enjoy!

 

Challenge

• Why do you think it was important for GOD to show Moses the lay of the land?
• Have you ever traveled to other areas and seen different landscapes, trees, lakes and rivers?
• Do you look forward to GOD providing you with peace and tranquility someday?

Fully Receiving Hope

 

Fully Receiving Hope

1 Peter 1: From Peter, apostle of Jesus Christ—

To God's chosen people who live as refugees scattered throughout the provinces of Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia. ² You were chosen according to the purpose of God the Father and were made a holy people by his Spirit, to obey Jesus Christ and be purified by his blood.

 

May grace and peace be yours in full measure.

 

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Shopping for groceries in the new town was something I had to get used to. I had to find where this store kept everything. I navigated the aisles and finished up with a lot of groceries, since I was just moving into my apartment. “Would you like help to your car?” was a question I had never heard before. “Sure!” I replied. The bagger loaded my trunk and thanked me for shopping there.

 

• I felt that I received great service.
• I could not believe how friendly people could be.
• I was thankful I received help when I needed it.

 

Peter writes to GOD’s chosen people and wishes them grace and peace in full measure. He did not wish for a little grace and peace, but full and perfect grace and peace. This meant GOD would intervene during the troubles each of them were facing.

 

My Observations:

• Peace can only come from GOD.
• Grace can only come from GOD.
• Grace and peace can happen even when times are difficult.

 

Grace and peace can be elusive. I mean, circumstances continue to pop up that can rob me of my peace. Then I may fall, causing me to feel distant from GOD. BUT GOD sees what I am going through and provides grace and peace.

 

HE not only provides grace but says “MY grace is sufficient.” HIS grace is full, everlasting and perfect. There is no flaw in HIS grace. HE then gives me peace in the middle of the storm. This is perfect peace because it cannot be stolen. I am assured by GOD and I am glad for it.

 

Challenge

• What grace and peace do you think the writer was trying to convey?
• Have you ever received a little grace and peace?
• How did it feel?
• Can you ask GOD for HIS grace and peace today?

 

Prayer

Dear LORD please provide this reader with YOUR grace and peace in full measure today? amen

Every Good Thing You Need

Every Good Thing You Need

Hebrews 13: ^20-21 God has raised from death our Lord Jesus, who is the Great Shepherd of the sheep as the result of his blood, by which the eternal covenant is sealed. May the God of peace provide you with every good thing you need in order to do his will, and may he, through Jesus Christ, do in us what pleases him. And to Christ be the glory forever and ever! Amen.

 

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After joining the organization, to my amazement they asked me “What do you need?” I gave them my list and they provided it for me. They knew I was going to do some work for them and they were willing to provide whatever I needed to do their work.

 

• I was willing to do the work they needed.
• I had some needs and they were willing to meet those needs as long as it would benefit them.
• I used the things given to me to do what they wanted me to do.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, explains the need GOD has. JESUS, the “Great Shepherd” was raised from the dead. GOD wants all living human beings to become sheep, or followers of JESUS. He then says a prayer that GOD gives “every good thing” to do HIS will.

 

My Observations:

• I have to be willing to do GOD’s will in order for HIM to provide for me.
• GOD provides me with what I need to do HIS will.
• GOD wants to make me successful by giving me purpose in JESUS.

 

Realizing that I am made for GOD is challenging. I mean, HE created me with free will to choose HIS way or my way. Many times I see HIS way as a barrier to “my” pleasure. Or I try to manipulate HIM into getting “my” way. GOD is gracious enough to understand.

 

HE gently guides me back to understanding HIS precious need, namely telling everyone HE sends me or send me to, that HIS SON is my Savior. This simple message is so dear and important, that HE is willing to give me whatever I need to do HIS will. I thank GOD for HIS provisions.

 

Challenge

• What “Good Things” is the writer talking about?
• Have you ever wanted to retire from serving GOD and just live a life of leisure?
• Will you give your life to GOD so HE can show you how to balance serving and enjoy life along the way so you will continue without burning out?
• Will you trust GOD for HIS provision today?

Seen and Rewarded

 

Seen and Rewarded

Philemon 1: ¹ From Paul, a prisoner for the sake of Christ Jesus, and from our brother Timothy—

To our friend and fellow worker Philemon, ² and the church that meets in your house, and our sister Apphia, and our fellow soldier Archippus:

 

³ May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace.

 

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“Could you come into the conference room?” said my boss. “I have to finish some work” I replied. He said, “It can wait, come in.” When I walked in, everyone in the division was there and my family. “Great work!” they exclaimed.

 

• I was surprised that I was being recognized
• I was not doing the work to be recognized, rather it had to be done.
• I appreciated being recognized.

 

Paul and Timothy recognize the efforts of Philemon and many others. Philemon had opened up his house to have followers of JESUS come in and meet to discuss HIS marvelous works and miracles. This was a very dangerous move because of the societal consequences. Paul knew he was in for a challenge and asks GOD to grant him and them “grace and peace.”

 

My Observations

• Serving GOD can sometimes be challenging.
• Being open to give GOD my everything is something HE is pleased with.
• Despite the societal pressures, GOD wants me to serve HIM with all my heart.

 

Mentioning JESUS is LORD is no picnic. I mean, three will be opposition, mislabeling and sometimes unwarranted attacks. BUT GOD sees it all and is pleased. HE sees my sin and my pitiful efforts to serve HIM and provides “grace and peace” anyway.

 

GOD loves when people open up their homes to speak about HIS SON. HE enjoys when people come together and pray, praise and heal. HE rewards those who are willing to follow HIM without worry. I gladly serve GOD without expectation, knowing HE will reward me with treasures in heaven that cannot be eaten by moths and cannot be stolen.

 

Challenge

• How is the writer able to send praises to people while sitting in prison?
• Have you ever been praised for something you accomplished?
• Will you put human praise aside and seek GOD’s “grace and peace” today?

Adopted Family

Adopted Family

1 Timothy 1: From Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by order of God our Savior and Christ Jesus our hope—

² To Timothy, my true son in the faith:

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

 

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Smelling the tasty food being prepared, my stomach growled. I kept peeking at the kitchen wondering what was cooking. “Would you like to stay for dinner?” were the words I had never heard before. “Can I?” I replied! “Sure, let’s ask your parents if it is okay.”

 

• I was excited to be able to hang out over someone else’s house.
• I did not know I was being asked into the family versus just getting a meal.
• I remember many fathers and mothers who adopted me as one of theirs.

 

Paul writes a letter to Timothy, calling him a son. Because of their relationship with JESUS, Paul brings Timothy into his family and provides words of encouragement. mentions his calling by the LORD and associates Timothy to that calling. He wished Timothy the best.

 

My Observations

• JESUS is my Savior and my hope.
• I am adopted into a vast family of believers because of GOD’s love for me.
• I can adopt people into the family and provide GOD’s grace, mercy and peace.

 

Family adoption is necessary. I mean, in this world of hurt, words of encouragement are few and far between. BUT GOD has a remedy. HE wants us to believe in HIS SON as the solution. HE guides each of us to be adopted into a family so we can adopt others into the family.

 

HE provides shelter to those who seek a home. HE adopts the lost, stands him or her up again and wipes away all tears. HE gives purpose so life can be abundant. I am truly grateful for my parents, adopted parents siblings and adopted siblings and all who are in my family, physical and spiritual.

 

Challenge

• What does the writer want?
• Have you ever been adopted into a family, even for a moment?
• Are you willing to bring someone into GOD’s family so he or she can experience GOD’s grace, mercy and peace today?

Provided For

Provided For

2 Thessalonians 3: ¹⁶ May the Lord himself, who is our source of peace, give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with you all.

¹⁷ With my own hand I write this: Greetings from Paul This is the way I sign every letter; this is how I write.

¹⁸ May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all.

 

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Ready to do a presentation, I pulled out my ancient laptop. “Sorry, we don’t have that type of connection” were the words I did not like hearing, referring to the type of cable needed to connect to a projector.

 

“Search through your bag for a flash drive” were the words I felt. I dug through my bag and, to my surprise, had one I placed there years ago. I copied my presentation and gave it to the organization.

 

• What I needed was there all along.
• I thought my plans would be stopped, but a way was made.
• This small incident taught me there is always another way.

 

Paul specifically mentions he penned the letter that he collaborated with Silas and Timothy. He ends with a prayer for all believers in JESUS. He asks for peace, for the LORD to be with everyone at all times and for grace.

 

My Observations

• Sometimes I forget that the LORD is the source of my peace.
• Grace and peace are always with me even when I mess up.
• I don’t have to look far for peace or grace because the LORD is always with me.

 

Grace and peace can seem elusive, but that is a lie. I mean, when trials last longer than expected, I may think GOD is withholding HIS peace. I may even start believing the lie that it may have been some sin that I did, or some action I did not do. BUT GOD is gentle.

 

HE simply whispers “Here, have peace” in the middle of the storm. When everyone else is worried, losing sleep and harassed, GOD can provide peace that is strange. HE also gives me unusual grace that covers sins I know about and those I don’t. I am so glad HIS grace is sufficient.

 

Challenge

• What is the writer’s prayer?
• Why do you need peace, the LORD to be with you and grace?
• Will you stop trying to acquire something that is with you at all times and thank GOD for being with you, giving you peace and for HIS grace today?

 

Prayer

Dear LORD, please grant this reader peace today. Grant him or her the knowledge that YOU are there and have been all along. Please let the reader know that YOU will never, ever leave, nor forsake him or her. Thank YOU for YOUR grace. amen

Rest

Rest

2 Thessalonians 1: From Paul, Silas, and Timothy—

To the people of the church in Thessalonica, who belong to God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ:

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

 

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Thinking of the many problems life had thrown at me, I laid awake at night. Knowing I had to go to work made me more anxious as I saw the hours tick away. “Maybe if I do some work” was my thought to get whatever was bugging me off my mind. I found myself working almost twenty four hours a day.

 

• I could not rest.
• I could not stop thinking about the many problems I faced.
• I could not solve or resolve any of the problems, so rest seemed elusive.

 

Paul, Silas and Timothy begin another letter to the Thessalonians with a miniature prayer. They knew times were difficult. They wished for all who belong to GOD our Father and the LORD JESUS CHRIST to be given grace and peace.

 

My Observations

• Life can be difficult, BUT GOD wants me to have peace which only comes from HIM.
• My sins may cause me to lose sleep, BUT GOD wants me to know HIS grace is sufficient.
• Worry, rage, doubt and disillusion may appear all around me, BUT GOD wants me to accept HIS grace and peace.

 

Knowing I am forgiven and that my troubles are temporary gives me grace and peace. I mean, I can confess my sins directly to GOD the FATHER because I believe JESUS died and rose for my sins. JESUS volunteered to die as a human because HE created them in the first place. HIS resurrection gives me the ability to be forgiven.

 

The HOLY SPIRIT was given to me as my Comforter. HE lives inside me and pleads on my behalf due to the many sins I commit. HE convicts me once, then guides me to peace versus harassment over the sin I commit over and over. I am glad GOD the FATHER, GOD the SON and GOD the HOLY SPIRIT are one and agree to give me grace and peace.

 

Challenge

• Why do the writers start with this miniature prayer?
• Have you ever lost sleep because of life’s circumstances?
• Will you give all of your circumstances to GOD who is willing to forgive you and give you grace and peace today?

From Worry to Wonder

 

From Worry to Wonder

1 Thessalonians 5: ²³ May the God who gives us peace make you holy in every way and keep your whole being—spirit, soul, and body—free from every fault at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. ²⁴ He who calls you will do it, because he is faithful.

²⁵ Pray also for us, friends.

²⁶ Greet all the believers with the kiss of peace.

²⁷ I urge you by the authority of the Lord to read this letter to all the believers.

²⁸ The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

 

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As I sat in the window, I noticed a distinction between the ray of sunlight and the cool of the shade. All of my cares and worries seem to melt away as I just sat there. Then I pondered what it would be like to have no worries, pain or sickness. It felt great just thinking of it.

 

• I felt freed just thinking about a time without worry.
• I felt lighter just thinking about a time when pain does not exist.
• I felt at peace just thinking about a time without ailments or sickness.

 

Paul closes the letter with input from Silas and Timothy. They closed this with a brief prayer all readers that GOD gives peace, make us holy and keep our whole being, spirit, soul and body, from every fault. They knew that one day the LORD JESUS would return.

 

My Observations

• GOD is willing to grant me peace when I seek HIM.
• GOD is willing to make me holy even when I have a mountain of sins.
• GOD is willing to keep my whole being – spirit, soul and body -- free from every fault.

 

Peace is possible in times of trouble. I mean, when I look at the waves and currents of this trial and that one, I can feel lost, worried and alone. BUT GOD has a remedy. JESUS.

 

One day JESUS will return with all power and authority. HE was placed above everything that causes pain, worry and sickness. HE will see only HIS grace HE has for me and for those who seek HIS mercy. HE is the ultimate forgiver and gives peace in the middle of the storm. I gladly accept HIS peace and wonder how great it will be when HE returns.

 

Challenge

• What is the writer trying to convey through this mini prayer?
• Have you ever gotten overwhelmed with the worries of life?
• Will you receive GOD’s peace by letting go of everything you are trying to control and allowing HIM to make you holy and keep your whole being so you will be faultless at the coming of the LORD JESUS CHRIST?

Peaceful Decisions

Peaceful Decisions

Colossians 3: ¹⁵ The peace that Christ gives is to guide you in the decisions you make; for it is to this peace that God has called you together in the one body. And be thankful. 

 

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“You can stay with a demotion or leave with severance” were the strange options placed before me. My performance was impeccable, yet I had two bad options placed in front of me. My entire identity had been placed in that position. Something in me said “I will take you to better places.”

 

• I was at peace when I heard I could let go.
• I felt a sense of peace towards those who placed two bad decisions before me.
• I released the turmoil I had, in exchange for peace.

 

Paul provides advice for those in need of making hard decisions. Tumultuous times and difficult situations, robbed people of peace and bad decisions that would cause more turmoil were the only options. What would be the answer?

 

My Observations

• True peace can only come from GOD.
• JESUS wants me to make better decisions so HE gives me peace in the middle of the storm.
• GOD called me to have and provide peace along with others who seek HIS kingdom.

 

Harassed, worried, sleep deprived minds do not make good decisions. I mean, when I replay the trial I am going through over and over and over, I cannot rest. I think the worst is going to happen and I may make a “snap decision” that brings further regret. I may even start blaming others, which worsens the situation.

 

Decisions made for CHRIST brings peace. Sometimes a peaceful decision is not the most comfortable. It is based on following JESUS, which could be a more difficult road, laced with trials and accolades that are few and far between, if at all. I am grateful for this strange peace that provides me with HIS purpose.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think the writer speaks about “peace?”
• Have you ever had to make a hard decision that caused you to lose sleep or to spin, thinking about the situation over and over?
• Will you settle your mind and think on CHRIST who will gladly give you peace in all decisions by asking HIM for the direction you should take today?

Multiple Lives

Multiple Lives

Colossians 3: ¹⁴ And to all these qualities add love, which binds all things together in perfect unity.

 

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“You have to be tough” is what people told me at work. This was the advice to be “successful.”  “You have to be smooth” is what my “friends” said as we entered bars and clubs. This was advice to get a “hook up.” “”You have to be friendly” or “You have to be punctual” were other words of advice that I tried to be.

 

• It was exhausting trying to be what everyone else expected me to be.
• It was hard trying to separate acting one way with one group and another way with the other.
• I was living multiple lives and at times they conflicted.

 

Paul addressed the conflict that resides in everyone. One part is sinful and the other is of GOD. People may have struggled with the “war within us” and did not know how to keep it together. One part of life would be solid while the other unraveled.  What was the solution?

 

My Observations

• Love is an eye-opening approach that GOD gave me to help me make better decisions.
• Adding love to my multiple lives reduces them into one life.
• GOD is love and wants me to use HIS way in all situations.

 

When my life is falling to pieces, love can keep it together. I mean, I can always depend on GOD loving me when the world does not. GOD’s love is unstoppable and it overcomes every situation I can face.

 

HE wants me to consider love as the glue that holds everything together. Instead of approaching situations with the way the world expects, GOD wants HIS love to be shown. If I “win” everyone else must “win” and the only way to do this is to show HIS love. I am glad HE loved me first.

 

Challenge

• What is the “perfect unity” the writer speaks about?
• Do you feel you are living multiple lives?
• Will you give all your actions, thoughts and concerns to GOD who is love and will provide love to you today?

Finding Peace

Finding Peace

Philippians 4: ⁶ Don't worry about anything, but in all your prayers ask God for what you need, always asking him with a thankful heart. ⁷ And God's peace, which is far beyond human understanding, will keep your hearts and minds safe in union with Christ Jesus.

 

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“Can I please have a name brand shoe?” was my request. After years of trying, I realized I was not going to get the fashionable items from my parents. Their hard earned money was used for bills, or at least that’s what they said. When I was old enough I got a job. I bought name brand shoes. “LORD, please don’t have it rain today” was my ask.

 

• I wanted people to see my new shoes.
• I did not want “my” shoes to get dirty from rain or dirty places.
• I was proud that I was finally able to buy shoes without the oppression of a budget.

 

Paul provides some quick, yet sage advice to contentment. He knew that living in this world would bring on temptations to have nice things. He also knew people would become discontent by not having these things. He suggested a much better way of thinking about things, namely “be thankful.”

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to be thankful for JESUS saving me.
• GOD wants me to be thankful for all that HE has brought me through.
• GOD wants me to be thankful for the people, places and things in my life so I can see that I am abundantly blessed.

 

Being thankful for people reduces rage over something he or she did. Also, being thankful for the places GOD has me in, opens my eyes to the ministry HE has given me to reap abundant rewards. When I am thankful for the old worn out thing, I reduce my being discontent.

 

GOD sees thankfulness as a sacred place. Kinda like an elevator reaching a floor. Once I reach the level of thankfulness, GOD says “Here, have peace.” HE then opens my mind and my heart to HIS safety that does not make sense to those who seek other people, places and things for their peace. I am grateful GOD reminds me that peace can be found by thankfulness of HIM.

 

Challenge

• What things does the writer suggest you pray for?
• Have you ever been discontent with the things you have?
• Have you ever received something and wanted something else that is similar, later?
• Will you be thankful for who you are, what you have, the people in your life, the things you have and where GOD has you , so you can reach HIS peace HE wants you to have today?

Broken, Abolished and United

Broken, Abolished and United

Ephesians 2: ¹⁴ For Christ himself has brought us peace by making Jews and Gentiles one people. With his own body he broke down the wall that separated them and kept them enemies. ¹⁵ He abolished the Jewish Law with its commandments and rules, in order to create out of the two races one new people in union with himself, in this way making peace. 

 

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“Give me that” the teacher said to us. We were fighting over a certain toy. I said it was mine because I saw it first. She said it was hers because she always played with it. Both arguments were sound, but flawed.

 

• I wanted to win the argument.
• I wanted to get my way.
• I wanted to be the one with favor so I presented “my” case so I could get “my” way.

 

Paul continues speaking about racism and classism. Church leaders were using the Law as a means to keep people separated. The outcasts and those who were not born into a certain race, developed their own communities where they could be accepted. Nothing was working. Hatred abounded. BUT GOD did something about it.

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to have peace so HE broke down the rules that cause any separation from HIM or HIS children.
• GOD wants me to belong to the entire family rather than dividing into factions.
• GOD wants me to receive HIS peace by understanding HIS desire for unification.

 

“CHRIST HIMSELF brought us peace by making Jews and Gentiles one people. “ HE does not condone favoritism, nor is one race higher than another. HE sees the efforts of each human trying to reign superiority over one another, so HE came up with a plan. HE took the thing they were fighting over away and told all humans to reconcile.

 

Unfortunately we have a sin nature that blinds us to unity. We settle for a smaller group that accepts our sin rather than trying to bring all people back to GOD in union with CHRIST. HE made us special to reach a specific group. I am grateful JESUS accepted me into HIS family and gives me peace.

 

Challenge

• What is the writer’s appeal about racism?
• Have you ever experienced racism. classism, sexism, ageism or something else that separates you from being united in CHRIST?
• Will you break down the barriers, abolish whatever rule you may hold onto and point people to the one true answer, namely JESUS?

Leave with Peace

Leave with Peace

2 Corinthians 13: ¹¹ And now, my friends, good-bye! Strive for perfection; listen to my appeals; agree with one another; live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you.

 

¹² Greet one another with the kiss of peace.

 

All of God's people send you their greetings.

 

¹³ The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.

 

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As the argument escalated, I stormed out the room and slammed the door. This emotional theatrical outburst did not settle the argument at all. If anything, it ensued more rage on all parts.

 

• I was seeking to “win” the argument.
• I was seeking to “win” and someone else to “lose.”
• I was seeking to be “heard” while missing the opportunity of hearing.

 

Paul sends his farewell. In it, he emphasizes peace. He gives everyone the assurance that GOD is with them so peace can be obtained.

 

My Observations

• Peace can be a way of life that GOD wants me to strive for.
• Peace from GOD is something I can bring into opposing views.
• Peace of assurance is a gift I can give to anyone who needs CHRIST.

 

Leaving people with peace is a goal I did not know existed. I mean, it does not require that I acquiesce or be walked on, rather I look for opportunities to live peacefully together. Avoiding arguments is probably unhealthy and causes bitterness to fester.

 

GOD wants me to see that peace is a way of life and wants any bitter root to be given to HIM. HE also wants me to talk things out with one another so an “agreement” can happen. I can also provide assurance to those who are nervous, letting him or her know that JESUS provided grace, the HEAVENLY FATHER love and the HOLY SPIRIT fellowship. I am glad GOD gives me peace that many cannot understand.

 

Challenge

• Does peace jump out at you when reading this passage?
• Why do you think the writer emphasizes peace so much?
• What situations can you think of where you can diffuse the argument with peace?
• Will you accept the goal of living in assurance of the grace of JESUS, the love of GOD and the fellowship of the HOLY SPIRIT so you can give peace to many as a gift today?

Well Wishes

Well Wishes

2 Corinthians From Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by God's will, and from our brother Timothy—

To the church of God in Corinth, and to all God's people throughout Achaia:

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

 

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Not looking forward to being around this group of people, I thought of previous encounters that were uncomfortable. I remembered the negativity, so I braced myself, preparing for battle. It really ruined my day.

 

• I do not like confrontation.
• I do not like negative atmospheres.
• I do not like preparing for battles that seem endless.

 

Paul sent another letter to the Corinthians. This time he had help from Timothy as GOD spoke through their relationship. Paul mentions that it was GOD’s will that he became an apostle, not his. He was getting ready to provide further correction but starts off with an unusual method. He wishes “grace and peace.”

 

My Observations

• JESUS died for me so when HE was raised, HE could send the HOLY SPIRIT to give me grace and peace.
• The FATHER agreed to lose HIS one and only SON to save me and give me grace and peace.
• The HOLY SPIRIT agreed to live inside me, despising every moment I sin, yet begs for my forgiveness so I can have grace and peace.

 

A LOT has been given to me already. I mean GOD gave me HIS all. Yet sometimes, that is not enough. I say “Thanks for salvation, but where are my riches and fame?’ I may not say them in those words, but my actions could speak volumes each time I complain  about famous people or worry about finances.

 

GOD is GOD. HE alone is the provider of grace and peace. HE gave a specific way for me to have both, namely to accept HIS gift and believe in JESUS as the Savior. It doesn’t stop there. I also need to surrender the things I “think” I need and be thankful for what GOD provides. I am grateful GOD chose me when I would never choose HIM.

 

Challenge

• What is the tone of the writer?
• Do you think he cared for the people he wrote to?
• When you are ready to combat someone, do you “care” for that person?
• Will you change your mind about “those” people and stop making it easy to dislike someone who GOD wants you to love?

Looking for Grace and Peace

 

Looking for Grace and Peace

1 Corinthians 1: From Paul, who was called by the will of God to be an apostle of Christ Jesus, and from our brother Sosthenes—

 

² To the church of God which is in Corinth, to all who are called to be God's holy people, who belong to him in union with Christ Jesus, together with all people everywhere who worship our Lord Jesus Christ, their Lord and ours:

 

³ May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace.

 

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Sleep eluded me as I felt the pressures of the pending deadline approaching. Day and night I worked but to no avail. I went to sleep, only to wake up thinking about work. I got up and satisfied the needs of the project. I arrived to work exhausted. I turned in the project, on time. “You misspelled some words” were the only comment.

 

• There have been times when I looked for peace after the turmoil.
• There have been times when I thought I could find peace through accomplishments and money.
• There have been times when I sought grace for mistakes I made.

 

Paul seemed to have a special tie to the people of Corinth. He mentioned Sosthenes, a Jewish leader who suffered a beating because he spoke about JESUS and agreed with Paul. Paul knew that those who were called would be ridiculed and persecuted by those who were supposed to be showing the love of GOD. He gives a solution to prepare those who are called.

 

• GOD wants me to seek grace by admitting I need a Savior.
• GOD wants me to seek peace from HIM alone.
• GOD wants me to confess to the FATHER that JESUS is my Savior so HE can send the HOLY SPIRIT to me, who in turn, brings me grace and peace.

 

Grace and peace will always elude me when I am not seeking it from the true source. Humans think a larger bank account or a certain brand of material things will bring peace. BUT GOD is the only source of grace and peace. HE withholds these precious implements from those who do not seek HIM.

 

GOD does something strange. HE pours out grace and peace to those who are called and who are worshipping our LORD JESUS CHRIST. While the world looks on with judgmental wrong labels, GOD gets excited to those who can mention the name of JESUS as their source of grace and peace. I gladly accept GOD’s grace and peace through JESUS who is my Savior.

 

• What do you think would bring you peace?
• Do you think a larger bank account or a better title or another material trinket will bring you peace?
• Have you taken inventory over your stuff to see if you have received grace and peace yet?
• Will you stop pursuing grace and peace “your” way and allow GOD to pour them out on you in abundance only when you surrender your life to JESUS today?

Keep Away From Them

 

Keep Away From Them

Romans 16: ¹⁷ I urge you, my friends: watch out for those who cause divisions and upset people's faith and go against the teaching which you have received. Keep away from them! ¹⁸ For those who do such things are not serving Christ our Lord, but their own appetites. By their fine words and flattering speech they deceive innocent people. ¹⁹ Everyone has heard of your loyalty to the gospel, and for this reason I am happy about you. I want you to be wise about what is good, but innocent in what is evil. ²⁰ And God, our source of peace, will soon crush Satan under your feet.

 

The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you.

 

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Willing to do anything legal for money, I stretched my values to include fine words and flattering speech to get “my” way. It worked. When the company came to me and said it was my job to explain away mistakes made by senior leaders, I got right in line and gave the story the right “spin” to make the $500 million gaff look salvageable.

 

• There have been times when I used “spin” to justify problems.
• There have been times when I used fine words to wow the crowd over.
• There have been times when I used flattering speech to keep the crowd from leaving.

 

Paul uses wisdom to explain a very important subject. Keep away from those who cause division and upset people’s faith. He knew some people would be very polished in their delivery and could grow large crows by their flattery. He also knew they were not speaking or living the Gospel of JESUS.

 

• GOD wants me to stay away from smooth talkers who do not live for or speak about JESUS.
• GOD wants me to stay away from the large crowd that seems powerful but is weak compared to JESUS.
• GOD wants me to recognize when someone is a deceiver based on their words that serve their own appetites.

 

Belief is in short supply these days. I mean it seems like leaders can lie and get away with it. Meanwhile, innocent people are hurt because of the flattering words. BUT GOD sees you. GOD sees those who believe in HIS SON and HE is happy with you and me.

 

HE removes my flattering fine words that would make “me” rich and replaces them with HIS Good News which is quite offensive in most circles. GOD wants to be first so HE will crush Satan under our feet. I am glad the grace of JESUS is with me.

 

• Are you seeking to be the answer?
• Will you lose your life trying to please the crowd instead of speaking up for JESUS?
• Will you leave the crowd that has flattering fine words so GOD can use you to speak about HIS SON today?

Bring Peace

 

Bring Peace

Romans 16: ¹² My greetings to Tryphaena and Tryphosa, who work in the Lord's service, and to my dear friend Persis, who has done so much work for the Lord. ¹³ I send greetings to Rufus, that outstanding worker in the Lord's service, and to his mother, who has always treated me like a son. ¹⁴ My greetings to Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermes, Patrobas, Hermas, and all the other Christians with them. ¹⁵ Greetings to Philologus and Julia, to Nereus and his sister, to Olympas and to all of God's people who are with them.

¹⁶ Greet one another with the kiss of peace. All the churches of Christ send you their greetings.

 

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Getting cut off in traffic spiked my rage, but I could only sit like everyone else. When I arrived at my destination, I was met with bad news after bad news. Complaints poured in all day. I got back in the car and started my journey. I was cut off in traffic again. “Wasn’t that the same car from this morning!” I wondered.

 

• Some days it seemed like no one had good news.
• Some days it seemed like complaints were in high demand.
• Some days it seemed like people were trying to purposefully get on “my” nerves.

 

Paul completes his greetings to many people with one statement “Greet one another with the kiss of peace.” He knew that life would be hard because he had experienced beatings, a shipwreck and multiple murder attempts on his life.

 

• GOD wants me to bring peace to people.
• GOD wants me to lead people HIM so HE can lead them to still waters.
• GOD wants me to be at peace so I can bring peace.

 

Having peace is something that the world cannot seem to provide. I mean, if I would just have blank, then I would be happy. I found this to never be true. I would get “blank” and be temporarily happy, but life would quickly set in.

 

GOD wants me off the highs and lows of panic to peace. HE wants me to seek HIM daily as my source of peace and allow HIM to lead others to the place HE has provided for them and me. Instead of a complaint or more bad news, GOD wants HIS people to have peace. I am grateful GOD gives an abundance of peace.

 

• Do you always have something negative to say?
• Are you seeking to stir people up so you can look like a hero?
• Will you be at peace with GOD so you can bring peace to others who need it today?

Blessing, Love and Peace

 

Blessing, Love and Peace

Romans 15: ²⁸ When I have finished this task and have turned over to them all the money that has been raised for them, I shall leave for Spain and visit you on my way there. ²⁹ When I come to you, I know that I shall come with a full measure of the blessing of Christ.

 

³⁰ I urge you, friends, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love that the Spirit gives: join me in praying fervently to God for me. ³¹ Pray that I may be kept safe from the unbelievers in Judea and that my service in Jerusalem may be acceptable to God's people there. ³² And so I will come to you full of joy, if it is God's will, and enjoy a refreshing visit with you. ³³ May God, our source of peace, be with all of you. Amen.

 

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Seeing ants crawl on the counter made me curious. “How are they getting in?” is what I asked. I spent time looking around the edges of the house and I found where they were crawling in. It was an easy fix once I found the source.

 

• Many times I look for the source of the problem.
• Many times I seek out problems so “I” can fix it.
• Many times I find the source of the problem, but need help getting the source of the solution.

 

Paul finishes explaining his plans. After he gives this money to the poor, he planned to visit those he wrote to. He knew the roads were treacherous and laced with thieves, so he asked for fervent prayer, not just a onetime ask. He also knew he needed the prayer of many.

 

• GOD wants me to ask for prayer when HE shows a difficult road ahead.
• GOD wants me to finish the task HE gives me to do.
• GOD wants me to seek HIM for blessing, love and peace.

 

The full measure of blessing of CHRIST is the Good News that should be preached all over the world. Love should be used when praying for one another. And peace comes from the source, namely GOD. I gladly ask everyone for prayers and that you receive peace from GOD.

 

• Have the many worries of the world made you lose your focus on GOD?
• How are you seeking peace?
• Will you speak about the blessing of CHRIST and ask others to pray for you with the love that comes from the HOLY SPIRIT so GOD may provide you with peace that only comes from HIM?