Led in the Way of Truth

Led in the Way of Truth

Genesis 24: ⁴² “And this day I came to the well and said, ‘O Lord God of my master Abraham, if You will now prosper the way in which I go, ⁴³ behold, I stand by the well of water; and it shall come to pass that when the virgin comes out to draw water, and I say to her, “Please give me a little water from your pitcher to drink,” ⁴⁴ and she says to me, “Drink, and I will draw for your camels also,”—let her be the woman whom the Lord has appointed for my master’s son.’

 

⁴⁵ “But before I had finished speaking in my heart, there was Rebekah, coming out with her pitcher on her shoulder; and she went down to the well and drew water. And I said to her, ‘Please let me drink.’ ⁴⁶ And she made haste and let her pitcher down from her shoulder, and said, ‘Drink, and I will give your camels a drink also.’ So I drank, and she gave the camels a drink also. ⁴⁷ Then I asked her, and said, ‘Whose daughter are you?’ And she said, ‘The daughter of Bethuel, Nahor’s son, whom Milcah bore to him.’ So I put the nose ring on her nose and the bracelets on her wrists. ⁴⁸ And I bowed my head and worshiped the Lord, and blessed the Lord God of my master Abraham, who had led me in the way of truth to take the daughter of my master’s brother for his son. ⁴⁹ Now if you will deal kindly and truly with my master, tell me. And if not, tell me, that I may turn to the right hand or to the left.”

 

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Continuing in his explanation, Abraham’s servant told everyone why Rebekah was chosen. He spoke about his prayer to the LORD and the immediacy of GOD’s answer.

 

My Observations:

• Abraham’s servant was surprised by how fast GOD favorably answered his prayer.
• Abraham’s servant described how fast things happened, which showed the willingness he was looking for.
• Abraham’s servant recognized that this circumstance could only be arranged by GOD.

 

Being led by the truth meant circumstances were arranged outside of Abraham’s servant’s power. He was still being led by the HOLY SPIRIT by asking Laban and Bethuel for Rebekah to come with him. He knew they could still say no, but in his heart, he knew she was the one GOD had chosen.

 

Abraham’s servant may have gained faith that he never had before. To see Abraham get his prayers answered over the years was one thing. But to see his own prayer get answered was special. He bowed his head and worshipped the LORD. GOD had done the impossible right in front of him.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about this recap given by Abraham’s servant?
• Are you facing the impossible?
• Can you believe that GOD can say “Wait” or “No” or “Yes” to your circumstance and still make it all work for you?

Spiritual Purpose Orchestrated

 

Spiritual Purpose Orchestrated

Genesis 24: ⁵ And the servant said to him, “Perhaps the woman will not be willing to follow me to this land. Must I take your son back to the land from which you came?”

 

⁶ But Abraham said to him, “Beware that you do not take my son back there. ⁷ The Lord God of heaven, who took me from my father’s house and from the land of my family, and who spoke to me and swore to me, saying, ‘To your descendants I give this land,’ He will send His angel before you, and you shall take a wife for my son from there. ⁸ And if the woman is not willing to follow you, then you will be released from this oath; only do not take my son back there.” ⁹ So the servant put his hand under the thigh of Abraham his master, and swore to him concerning this matter.

 

Abraham’s servant asked for clarification regarding Isaac. He wondered if he should take Isaac with him to live in the land where Abraham grew up. Abraham said “no” and gave an explanation of how things would happen.

 

My Observations:

• When GOD created the heaven and the earth, the HOLY SPIRIT hovered over the water.
• When GOD created humans, HE said Let “US” make man in “OUR” own image.
• When GOD was about to tear down the Tower of Babel, HE said let “US” go down and confuse their language.

 

Abraham must have seen the “US” part of GOD in action. I believe when Abraham said that GOD would send “HIS angel” before you, he may have been referring to the HOLY SPIRIT. I believe JESUS walked in the Garden of Eden and spoke with Noah. I also believe that JESUS and the HOLY SPIRIT appeared together somehow.

 

It makes sense to me that this is the HOLY SPIRIT because the situation needed to be orchestrated, requiring multiple people to be guided. Up to this point, we have only seen angels appear with JESUS and only having information that was given to them. They discovered information as they helped Lot out the city. BUT the HOLY SPIRIT would know exactly what to do to guide the situation into the promise of GOD.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about the conclusion Abraham had regarding sending his servant to find a wife for Isaac?
• Has GOD told you something would happen and you need the HOLY SPIRIT to orchestrate the situation?
• Will you seek the leading of the HOLY SPIRIT so HE will guide you to be part of someone else’s growth or salvation today?

Clean City

Clean City

Revelation 21: ⁹ One of the seven angels who had the seven bowls full of the seven last plagues came to me and said, “Come, and I will show you the Bride, the wife of the Lamb.” ¹⁰ The Spirit took control of me, and the angel carried me to the top of a very high mountain. He showed me Jerusalem, the Holy City, coming down out of heaven from God ¹¹ and shining with the glory of God. The city shone like a precious stone, like a jasper, clear as crystal.

 

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Asleep in the back seat, I woke up because I could tell we were getting close to home. The stench of the landfill was the first indicator that we were getting close. I anticipated the swampy smell of the shipping dock followed by the final chemical smell of the paint factory. I saw garbage on the sides of the road. Yep, I was almost home!

 

• Many cities I have been in were dirty.
• Many cities I visited had graffiti and grunge.
• Many cities I lived in had industrial stuff that belched carcinogens in the air.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, had the SPIRIT take control of him and was carried to a very high mountain. The Holy City was coming down out of heaven from GOD. It was shining with the glory of GOD.

 

My Observations:

• GOD’s glory was so bright, that humans could not look at it.
• The new Holy City will be so clean that no disease can live inside it.
• Brightness will shine from the Holy City like nothing seen before.

 

No more smells. No more rot. No more feeble attempts by humans to create something temporary that misuses GOD’s creation, causing people to be harmed. The plagues were over and a new city was presented. What happened to GOD’s people? You and I become recipients of a brand new city.

 

Remember that new car smell? Or that new house smell? Or new shoe smell? Think of a new city that shines with GOD’s glory. HE cannot wait to provide this gift to those who go through the grunge of life’s difficulties. When life is dirty, I am glad I can focus on a future that is bright and new!

 

Challenge

• Why was the writer taken to a mountain to see the city?
• Have you ever been deeply worried or saddened by circumstances or regretful because of sin?
• Can you imagine a place where you are free to love GOD and HE is right there, wiping away your tears?

Who to Listen To

Who to Listen To

1 John 2: ²⁶ I am writing this to you about those who are trying to deceive you. ²⁷ But as for you, Christ has poured out his Spirit on you. As long as his Spirit remains in you, you do not need anyone to teach you. For his Spirit teaches you about everything, and what he teaches is true, not false. Obey the Spirit's teaching, then, and remain in union with Christ.

 

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A thug snatched my glasses off and pushed me. Felling angry, my face immediately went to a frown. Things were going fast. People on the side wanted to see a fight so they shouted “What are you going to do about it?” to me. Some were laughing, others looked on with anger. We bumped shoulders and dared one another to strike the first blow. The crowd gathered around us. A teacher broke up the crowd and separated us.

 

• I was angry and was listening to the voice of rage inside me.
• I got more angry by listening to people who could care less about me, but wanted me to fight.
• I was insecure and felt there was no other way out but to fight, because that is what the crowd expected.

 

John explains another reason for writing this letter. He may have been made aware of deceptive people who slipped into the group of believers of JESUS. These false teachers spoke against CHRIST and stirred up trouble with every word spoken. He provides security by pointing the believers to who they should listen to.

 

My Observations:

• There is a voice in my head that sometimes aligns with GOD and sometimes it does not.
• When I listen to the voice in my head that does not align with GOD’s word, I get myself in trouble.
• People can deceive me because of his or her desire to get their own way, BUT the HOLY SPIRIT only speaks truth, so HE is who I should listen to.

 

Humans want to be GOD, and I am human. I mean, I want to be in control with my life and have things go “my” way. When something uncomfortable comes up, I want to be in control of making the discomfort go away, even if it means fighting, arguing or expressing rage! BUT GOD has another way.

 

JESUS sent the COMFORTER to live inside me. The HOLY SPIRIT is there to constantly be in touch with me, guiding me with what to say or do. This means I need to stay in touch with HIM and discern when the voice in my head is following what HE is saying. This requires reading GOD’s word and asking myself “Am I doing what it says?”  I am glad GOD is willing to guide me.

 

Challenge

• Does the writer imply that you can be out of union with CHRIST?
• Have you ever said or done some things that are contrary to what is in the Bible?
• Will you believe that the Bible is GOD’s inerrant Word that you can place all of your decisions through so you can be guided by the HOLY SPIRIT and remain in union with CHRIST today?

Ambition

Ambition

Colossians 1: ⁹ For this reason we have always prayed for you, ever since we heard about you. We ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will, with all the wisdom and understanding that his Spirit gives. ¹⁰ Then you will be able to live as the Lord wants and will always do what pleases him. Your lives will produce all kinds of good deeds, and you will grow in your knowledge of God.

 

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After a taste of “success” I wanted more. I figured I could “help” more people if I obtained a certain title. I worked day and night climbing the ladder of “success.” While I was working, I was too busy to help those who I intended to help.

 

• I was blinded by ambition.
• I thought the title was more important than my actions.
• I believed I knew what could help people.

 

Paul indirectly addressed the human will. He knew humans could be blinded by the world’s ambitions, justifying selfish actions along the way. There was only one way to please GOD, namely be filled.

 

My Observations

• Knowledge of GOD is important for me to seek.
• Wisdom from GOD helps me with discernment.
• Understanding from GOD provides me with better actions to help me grow.

 

Ambition is a very deceptive foe. I mean, on the surface it looks quite innocent and the world loves an ambitious hero. BUT GOD’s will speaks softly and will not compete with the human will. HE, unfortunately, allows us to try to reach our desires, which HE knows can take us off HIS path.

 

BUT GOD is forgiving and wants us to succeed. When I empty myself and allow HIM to “fill” me up, I can please HIM through HIS wisdom, knowledge and understanding. I am glad GOD enables me to produce HIS fruit.

 

Challenge

• What good deeds is the writer speaking of?
• What does “growth in GOD” look like?
• Will you seek GOD’s will so HE can give you wisdom, knowledge and understanding to do “good deeds” that are pleasing to HIM today?

Directed Freedom

Directed Freedom

Galatians 5: ¹⁶ What I say is this: let the Spirit direct your lives, and you will not satisfy the desires of the human nature. ¹⁷ For what our human nature wants is opposed to what the Spirit wants, and what the Spirit wants is opposed to what our human nature wants. These two are enemies, and this means that you cannot do what you want to do. ¹⁸ If the Spirit leads you, then you are not subject to the Law.

 

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Arriving on campus, I could hear the loud music blasting from various dorm rooms. We had a drunken party that night and many opportunities for sex. “I’m going to love this place!” I thought to myself!

 

• I thought I was finally freed from the “tyranny” of self-control.
• I thought it was alright to have a little “fun.”
• I thought of the normal excuse: “Everyone else is doing it.”

 

Paul addresses a very difficult topic, namely self-control. He explains the built in war within all humans that desires to get our own way with no surrender. Every impulse desires to be satisfied and will fight even the MOST HIGH to get it. This is a trap. But there is an escape path.

 

My Observation

• The HOLY SPIRIT wants to guide me to freedom daily if I would only listen.
• The HOLY SPIRIT lives inside me and fights the internal battle for me.
• The HOLY SPIRIT pleads on my behalf because I deserve eternal separation from the love of GOD.

 

“All have sinned and fall short of the glory of GOD” is a hard statement to swallow. I mean, I was born in sin that I did not have a choice over. Meanwhile, I was given the ability to choose to believe in the cure for my sinful lite or live life to its fullest without regard to who GOD wants me to be. Seemed hopeless because I would choose to live life without GOD.

 

Fortunately for me, HE chose me. HE pursued me and showed me there is a better way to live that provides true hope and freedom. I can read GOD’s word for truth and listen to the HOLY SPIRIT for guidance to freedom daily. I can then oppose getting “my” way and seek GOD’s kingdom the way HE wants me to. I am grateful HE pursues me when I would not look for HIM.

 

Challenge

• What is the writer talking about when mentioning the “human nature?”
• What war do you seem to be fighting inside of you?
• What small steps can you take to listen to the HOLY SPIRIT and introduce a small amount of self-control to follow JESUS on the path HE has for you today?

An Appealing Plea

An Appealing Plea

2 Corinthians 5: ²⁰ Here we are, then, speaking for Christ, as though God himself were making his appeal through us. We plead on Christ's behalf: let God change you from enemies into his friends! ²¹ Christ was without sin, but for our sake God made him share our sin in order that in union with him we might share the righteousness of God.

 

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Speeding tickets seemed to be the norm for me until one day I got one too many. “You need a lawyer” was the suggestion of the judge. I was unable to speak on my behalf to overturn the latest violation.  I needed someone who could appeal to the judge in a way that could be heard. “How do you plea?” was the question The lawyer spoke for me and used words that could be heard by the judge.

 

• I was guilty but needed an advocate.
• I was clearly in the wrong but needed someone to make an appeal.
• I was on my way to being sentenced, but had someone make a plea to overturn the violation.

 

Paul is trying to make an appeal to overturn the thoughts of people who did not believe in JESUS. He spoke as though GOD HIMSELF were making an appeal. He then mentions how JESUS was without sin, but for our sake, HE was made sin so we could share in the righteousness of GOD.

 

My Observations

• An appeal was made to me to guide my thoughts to JESUS.
• When I believed that JESUS died for me and was raised from the dead, I became eternally saved.
• I plead with others to open their eyes to the one true Savior, which is CHRIST our LORD.

 

Usually a plea is seen as a way to get “my” way. BUT GOD sees it different. JESUS not only gave up HIS life, HE pursues each and every one of us, pleading to keep us from harm. The HOLY SPIRIT begs on our behalf and GOD sends people to plea to turn to HIS ways. I am grateful for the people who prayed for me and pleaded on my behalf.

 

Challenge

• Can you hear the plea from the writer?
• Have you ever been in trouble and needed someone else to explain things on your behalf?
• Will you make a plea on someone else’s behalf to turn to JESUS for all answers today?

You ARE Special!

You ARE Special!

2 Corinthians 3: ¹² Because we have this hope, we are very bold. ¹³ We are not like Moses, who had to put a veil over his face so that the people of Israel would not see the brightness fade and disappear. ¹⁴ Their minds, indeed, were closed; and to this very day their minds are covered with the same veil as they read the books of the old covenant. The veil is removed only when a person is joined to Christ. ¹⁵ Even today, whenever they read the Law of Moses, the veil still covers their minds. ¹⁶ But it can be removed, as the scripture says about Moses: “His veil was removed when he turned to the Lord.” ¹⁷ Now, “the Lord” in this passage is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is present, there is freedom. ¹⁸ All of us, then, reflect the glory of the Lord with uncovered faces; and that same glory, coming from the Lord, who is the Spirit, transforms us into his likeness in an ever greater degree of glory.

 

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“What makes her special?” I said with a grouse. I would say the exact words she said in meetings, but they would listen to this “show stealer!” I asked someone that very question. He replied, “I don’t know, there is just something about her.” That answer did not help me!

 

• I wanted to feel special.
• I wanted to be noticed, so I mimicked other people.
• I wanted to be someone else other than myself because I felt like a nobody.

 

Paul explains a structure that was put in place through Moses. The Law of Moses pointed out what everyone was doing wrong and created shackles to its readers who faced death because of it.

 

Those who were put in place as leaders desired to feel “special” just like Moses once did as he donned a veil to pretend his face was still glowing. The leaders tried to make people feel they needed to go through a hierarchy to get to GOD and become “freed from death.”.

 

My Observations

• Belief in JESUS’ death burial and resurrection frees me to speak directly to the FATHER.
• Receiving the HOLY SPIRIT frees me to be led by GOD each day.
• Exposing my sins uncovers my face so GOD’s glory shines all the brighter.

 

Trying to be special is the problem. I mean, when I look at other people with jealous lenses or look at myself as not so good, then I reduce the uniqueness GOD placed in me. GOD made me special and only I can fulfill the purpose HE gave me. The great news is HE did the same for all who believe in JESUS.

 

The HOLY SPIRIT is placed inside anyone who believes in the power of the resurrection. HE then transforms us into HIS likeness day by day to shine GOD’s glory on many others. I am glad GOD sees me as special so I don’t have to try so hard to be special.

 

Challenge

• What “hope” is the writer speaking of?
• Have you ever been jealous of someone’s abilities, or status or wealth or activities?
• Do you think you need a hierarchy to get to GOD through humans?
• Will you be freed by the HOLY SPIRIT and allow HIM to transform you into HIS likeness today?

Influenced

Influenced

1 Corinthians 12: Now, concerning what you wrote about the gifts from the Holy Spirit.

I want you to know the truth about them, my friends. ² You know that while you were still heathen, you were led astray in many ways to the worship of lifeless idols. ³ I want you to know that no one who is led by God's Spirit can say “A curse on Jesus!” and no one can confess “Jesus is Lord,” without being guided by the Holy Spirit.

 

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Gutter after gutter, I bowled a 12 out of 300 on my first outing. You would think this was a disaster, but it was great to me! I was invited out by one of my fathers. Back in the day, the community had many influencers who wanted to see kids do something better with their lives. I just liked being there, no natter how bad I did.

 

• I would not say anything bad about this influencer even though I did not know his purpose.
• I would not say I had a terrible time bowling” because the influencer might not take me again.
• I would not say “Curse you” to the influencer, because this would show dissatisfaction.

 

Paul addressed a question about the leading of the HOLY SPIRIT. “No one who is led by GOD’s SPIRIT can say ‘A curse on JESUS!’” Also,” No one can confess “JESUS is LORD,” without being guided by the HOLY SPIRIT” were the words Paul used as an opener. He recognized that it took being influenced by the HOLY SPIRIT to turn away from following a lifeless idol.

 

My Observation

• GOD wants me to follow the leading of the HOLY SPIRIT.
• GOD wants me to avoid anything that curses HIS holy name.
• GOD wants me to be guided by the HOLY SPIRIT so I can be comforted, guided and trained by HIS love, perseverance and wisdom.

 

There is a part of GOD who get’s little recognition, namely the HOLY SPIRIT. I mean, when I believe that JESUS died to save me and was raised from the dead, HE sent the HOLY SPIRIT to live inside me.

 

Ever since then, the HOLY SPIRIT looks at every word I say, thought I think and desires I hide in my heart. Instead of beating me up, HE asks the FATHER “Will you please forgive HIM?” The FATHER agrees and erases my sin. I am grateful that GOD saved me in the middle of my sins and gave me the HOLY SPIRIT to comfort me even when I mess up.

 

Challenge

• What do you notice about being led by the HOLY SPIRIT?
• Have you ever felt like blaming GOD or have gotten so mad at HIM that you felt like not serving HIM or even cursing HIM?
• Will you consider being influenced by the HOLY SPIRIT who will lead you to true peace and a strong sense of love today?

Permanent Solution

Permanent Solution

1 Corinthians 6: ⁷ The very fact that you have legal disputes among yourselves shows that you have failed completely. Would it not be better for you to be wronged? Would it not be better for you to be robbed? ⁸ Instead, you yourselves wrong one another and rob one another, even other believers! ⁹ Surely you know that the wicked will not possess God's Kingdom. Do not fool yourselves; people who are immoral or who worship idols or are adulterers or homosexual perverts ¹⁰ or who steal or are greedy or are drunkards or who slander others or are thieves—none of these will possess God's Kingdom. ¹¹ Some of you were like that. But you have been purified from sin; you have been dedicated to God; you have been put right with God by the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.

 

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“Maybe I can use a coat hanger” was my first thought in repairing the hatch back door on my jalopy of a car.  Of course the hanger did not fit properly. It was too thin to snugly connect the hatch to the car and if I doubled the hanger, it was too thick. I needed a permanent solution.

 

• There have been many times when I looked at temporary solutions as permanent.
• There have been many times when I declared something as “fixed” when it was still broken.
• There have been many times when I argued about my patch work, justifying why I repaired it the way I did.

 

Paul explains the reason it is frivolous to take legal action against another believer in JESUS. He, however, does it in a strange way. He explains that anyone who sins in any way, will not receive the kingdom of GOD. The sines he lists are temporary solutions to a deeper problem, namely the lack of a relationship with JESUS for salvation.

 

• GOD wants me to turn from temporary sin and replace it with a permanent solution, namely JESUS.
• GOD knows I cannot resist sin, so HE gave me a permanent solution, namely JESUS.
• GOD saw all the sins I would ever commit, and HE forgave me with HIS permanent solution, namely JESUS.

 

Trying to pick apart the list Paul writes, points to a deeper problem which is surrender. I mean, if I think “I” am not on the list he writes about and that I can tell someone else to straighten up because “their” actions are sinful, then I am the one with the serious problem. All have sinned and need a permanent solution to sin.

 

JESUS is that permanent solution. HE not only saves me eternally, HE guides me daily through the HOLY SPIRIT. When I want to use sin as my solution, the HOLY SPIRIT warns me and provides a way out. I don’t always take the way out, so HE pleads for me when I sin. I am grateful GOD’s grace is sufficient to cover my sins.

 

• Are you trying to fix your life with temporary sin?
• Do you think you were “born that way” and are unwilling to surrender your life to JESUS?
• Have you fallen for the lie that if you have committed a sin, GOD will not forgive you, or worse yet, you do not feel you need to be forgiven?
• Will you consider the love of JESUS and ask for forgiveness of any sin so HE will be faithful and just to forgive you of your sins and cleanse you of all unrighteousness today?

Religious-ship

 

Religious-ship

Romans 10: Brothers and sisters, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for the Israelites is that they may be saved. ² For I can testify about them that they are zealous for God, but their zeal is not based on knowledge. ³ Since they did not know the righteousness of God and sought to establish their own, they did not submit to God’s righteousness. ⁴ Christ is the culmination of the law so that there may be righteousness for everyone who believes.

 

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Dressed in my “Sunday clothes”, I went to church. Songs were sang from a book that smelled like a musty cave. Announcements were made about upcoming events. I sat and listened to a person talking about an old car. I walked away remembering there was an event that would serve frappe. I liked sherbet and 7 UP!

 

• There were times when I thought I knew GOD because I went to church.
• There were times when I thought I knew GOD because I looked the part.
• There were times when I thought I knew GOD because I sang the songs, quoted the speaker and attended the events.

 

After being beaten, slandered, and stoned by the Israelites, Paul says his desire is that they may be saved. He remembered his own zeal to persecute anyone who didn’t act “religious.” He watched men women and children being murdered because they weren’t doing GOD right, at least according to his way. BUT GOD had another way.

 

• GOD wants me to have a real relationship with HIM through JESUS.
• GOD wants me to submit to GOD’s righteousness through JESUS.
• GOD wants me to believe in HIS one and only SON so HE can declare me as righteous.

 

Reading the bible every day and quoting scriptures does not save me.  I mean, if I read the words and say them without truly believing them, I may as well read and quote any other manuscript that makes me feel good. BUT GOD wants something different.

 

JESUS died for me just to have an everlasting relationship with me. No one else has ever done something so wonderful for me. HE said things that have been true all my life like; “I will never leave you nor forsake you” and “Take MY yoke upon you and learn from ME, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” I no longer want religion, because I have a relationship with JESUS.

 

• Are you looking at people, thinking they are doing GOD the wrong way?
• Do you feel you know GOD better because you listen to songs and read scripture a lot?
• Will you ask JESUS into your heart so you can desire HIS salvation for those who persecute you today?

Interpreter

 Interpreter

Romans 8: ²⁶ In the same way the Spirit also comes to help us, weak as we are. For we do not know how we ought to pray; the Spirit himself pleads with God for us in groans that words cannot express. ²⁷ And God, who sees into our hearts, knows what the thought of the Spirit is; because the Spirit pleads with God on behalf of his people and in accordance with his will.

 

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“Let me handle it” said my boss. I was furious and wanted to give the leader of another department a piece of my mind. My words would not have been quite as nice. I explained the situation to my boss who in turn went to the department head on my behalf.

 

• There have been times when I needed someone to say the right words for me.
• There have been times when I felt one way but needed to feel another way to remain at peace.
• There have been times when I had to remain silent while someone else spoke for me.

 

Paul continues expressing the enlightenment he received from the HOLY SPIRIT. He tells everyone that the SPIRIT has a difficult job, pleading with GOD on our behalf. Since humans are sinful, the thoughts and prayers would be sinful. The HOLY SPIRIT interprets what is needed and expresses it to the FATHER and aligns to HIS will.

 

• The HOLY SPIRIT speaks on my behalf to the FATHER each day.
• The HOLY SPIRIT knows I am weak and sinful and goes to the FATHER to plead for me.
• The HOLY SPIRIT explains the wickedness in my heart and expresses the need for my forgiveness each day.

 

Coming to GOD correctly is hard for a blind person. I mean, when I am complaining about “that” person, I may not be seeing the complaint “that” person has against me. My blindness may make my ears stop working and soon my tongue says more and more evil.

 

BUT GOD knew I would be weak and sent the HOLY SPIRIT to live inside me. HE sees every thought and asks the FATHER to forgive me in words I cannot understand. HE groans on my behalf and lines me up with GOD’s will. I am grateful I have an interpreter who loves me.

 

• Do you have a complaint about someone?
• Does someone have a complaint about you?
• Have you thanked the HOLY SPIRIT for interceding for you?
• Will you ask GOD to have your hear cleaned so you can align to GOD’s will today?

Gifts and Talents

Gifts and Talents

Acts 21: ⁷ We continued our voyage from Tyre and landed at Ptolemais, where we greeted the brothers and sisters and stayed with them for a day. ⁸ Leaving the next day, we reached Caesarea and stayed at the house of Philip the evangelist, one of the Seven. ⁹ He had four unmarried daughters who prophesied.

¹⁰ After we had been there a number of days, a prophet named Agabus came down from Judea. ¹¹ Coming over to us, he took Paul’s belt, tied his own hands and feet with it and said, “The Holy Spirit says, ‘In this way the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem will bind the owner of this belt and will hand him over to the Gentiles.’”

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Never having worked on a team, I found myself challenged with understanding what was my part versus someone else’s. Was I supposed to do everything or just a little? I needed a little clarification on what I was supposed to do, so I asked my boss.

• There have been many times when I needed to know my role.
• There have been many times when I needed to understand where I fit on the team.
• There have been many times when I did not know how or when to use my gifts and talents.

When the disciples landed at Ptolemais and Caesarea, they were greeted by many. Each person had their own gifts and talents. Philip was an evangelist, his daughters were prophets and Agabus was also a prophet. Each person was led by the HOLY SPIRIT. Agabus gave Paul a warning based on what the HOLY SPIRIT said.

• GOD gave me gifts and talents to use for HIS purpose.
• GOD leads me by the HOLY SPIRIT.
• GOD wants me to embrace the gifts and talents of others.

Gifts and talents are in abundance in GOD’s kingdom. I mean, every person I meet has a unique way at looking at life. Each flawed person brings a unique piece to the broken mirror that reflects GOD. Only when all pieces are together, can we reflect HIM. I am grateful GOD has made me a tiny piece of a larger plan.

• Do you feel your gifts and talents are better than someone else’s?
• Do you think other people would be better off if they were to follow your way?
• Will you look at other people the way GOD does and value their gifts and talents even if you cannot see them today?

Connected

Connected

Acts 21: After we had torn ourselves away from them, we put out to sea and sailed straight to Kos. The next day we went to Rhodes and from there to Patara. ² We found a ship crossing over to Phoenicia, went on board and set sail. ³ After sighting Cyprus and passing to the south of it, we sailed on to Syria. We landed at Tyre, where our ship was to unload its cargo. ⁴ We sought out the disciples there and stayed with them seven days. Through the Spirit they urged Paul not to go on to Jerusalem. ⁵ When it was time to leave, we left and continued on our way. All of them, including wives and children, accompanied us out of the city, and there on the beach we knelt to pray. ⁶ After saying goodbye to each other, we went aboard the ship, and they returned home.

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“Who will I meet and what will I eat?” were the questions that ran through my mind when I ventured on a couple of missions trips in other countries. I was nervous because I never had been out of the country of my birth.

After meeting up with a local church, a guy spoke to me and asked me about JESUS on the first trip. My fears subsided. The same thing happened in other countries on other trips.

• There were times when I worried about being in a strange place.
• There were times when I wondered about my comfort.
• There were times when I felt uncomfortable about speaking to strangers about JESUS.

Paul and the disciples sailed to several ports on the way to Jerusalem, landing in Tyre. There they sought out those who believed in JESUS as their LORD and Savior. Many men, women and children met with them. At the leading of the HOLY SPIRIT they urged Paul not to go to Jerusalem. They were connected enough to speak with wisdom, not fear.

• GOD wants me to connect with people through the HOLY SPIRIT.
• GOD wants me to serve people based on the leading of the HOLY SPIRIT.
• GOD wants me to live my life with purpose based on the HOLY SPIRIT.

Being led by the HOLY SPIRIT means growing GOD’s kingdom versus tearing it down. JESUS died and rose from the dead, sending the HOLY SPIRIT to those who believe in HIM. When I listen to HIM, I get sent to those who need the connection, or who need to guide me in my journey. I am grateful for the leading of the HOLY SPIRIT.

• Are you connected to GOD’s people through JESUS?
• Does your life have purpose to do HIS will?
• Will you accept what GOD is urging you to do and drop your answers to human issues to provide HIS solutions to the problems of others today?

Motivated

Motivated

Acts 2: ³⁴ “For David did not ascend into the heavens, but he says himself:

‘The Lord said to my Lord,
“Sit at My right hand,
³⁵ Till I make Your enemies Your footstool.” ’

³⁶ “Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ.”

³⁷ Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Men and brethren, what shall we do?”

³⁸ Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. ³⁹ For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call.”

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“Thank you” were the words I said at lunch. For years I had no idea this person was watching over me. They cleared up misconceptions. Stuck their neck out just for me. This gave me great motivation to serve the living GOD whom they served.

• Many times I have heard things that motivated me to do something.
• Many times I have listened to someone speak with passion and was motivated to act.
• Many times I have been responsive to someone’s acts of love towards me.

After Peter’s passionate plea, the crowd was “cut to the heart” at their actions. They may not have physically killed JESUS, but they may have been in agreement that HE should die. When they heard HE was alive, they were motivated to ask “What should we do?”

• GOD wants me to apologize for my sins.
• GOD wants me to outwardly show those around me that I belong to JESUS by getting baptized.
• GOD wants me to receive the HOLY SPIRIT as a gift I do not deserve.

“Sit at MY right hand” means let “ME” do all the work. JESUS has the power and authority to face any demonic situation that may arise. Though the situation may hurt, HE still is in control. HE wants me to surrender my life to HIM so HE can guide those HE chooses back to HIM. I owe my life to JESUS.

• What motivates you?
• Do you secretly want the spotlight without the consequence of desiring it?
• Will you add surrender to your life so JESUS can reach your heart today?

Fulfilling the Plan

Fulfilling the Plan

Acts 1: ¹⁵ And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples (altogether the number of names was about a hundred and twenty), and said, ¹⁶ “Men and brethren, this Scripture had to be fulfilled, which the Holy Spirit spoke before by the mouth of David concerning Judas, who became a guide to those who arrested Jesus; ¹⁷ for he was numbered with us and obtained a part in this ministry.”

¹⁸ (Now this man purchased a field with the wages of iniquity; and falling headlong, he burst open in the middle and all his entrails gushed out. ¹⁹ And it became known to all those dwelling in Jerusalem; so that field is called in their own language, Akel Dama, that is, Field of Blood.)

²⁰ “For it is written in the Book of Psalms:

‘Let his dwelling place be desolate,

And let no one live in it’;

and,

‘Let another take his office.’

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“Come up on stage” were the words I was shocked to hear. The leadership team had acknowledged the efforts of business owners, because it was a convention specifically for them. I was an employee, yet they recognized my efforts. My part of the plan helped.

• Sometimes I think I am insignificant.
• Sometimes I think my tiny part does not matter.
• Sometimes I think I am not part of a large plan.

Peter spoke about replacing Judas but was careful with his words. It wasn’t just about getting another person, but getting the right person. How were they going to choose when GOD was the one who chose everyone else? He relied on the scripture.

• GOD’s plan includes me.
• GOD’s plan has a part in it for me.
• GOD’s plan is laid out for me to read daily.

“What do you want from me?” is usually cried out from those who wants something and are not getting it. GOD says clearly that HE wants everyone to believe in HIS SON for salvation. HE also says the harvest is plentiful but the laborers are few.

Forcing GOD into my plan usually does not work. I mean, usually I want to stay the same and let GOD clean up my mess. BUT GOD wants me to be part of HIS plan, which requires me to change, giving it all to HIM. I am glad HE is gracious enough to keep me in HIS plan.

• Are you trying to make GOD do something and have not yielded your life to HIM?
• Are you praying to get something and have not given your all to HIM?
• Will you join GOD’s plan for you by giving HIM all the things you hold onto so HE can multiply it?

Loved

Loved

John 16: ²⁵ “These things I have spoken to you in figurative language; but the time is coming when I will no longer speak to you in figurative language, but I will tell you plainly about the Father. ²⁶ In that day you will ask in My name, and I do not say to you that I shall pray the Father for you; ²⁷ for the Father Himself loves you, because you have loved Me, and have believed that I came forth from God. ²⁸ I came forth from the Father and have come into the world. Again, I leave the world and go to the Father.”

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After being dumped by someone I liked, I said “no one will love me.” I felt dejected. After a while, I went out with someone else. After a job elimination I said “No one will hire me.” I felt lost. After a while, I found another position.

• I have felt abandoned.
• I have felt lonely.
• I have felt unwanted, undesired and unloved.

JESUS speaks plainly to HIS disciples by saying “The FATHER loves you because you love ME.” JESUS was giving HIS disciples a direct connection to the FATHER, who has all power.

• GOD wants me to know HE loves me.
• GOD wants me to know HE cares about me.
• GOD wants me to know HE wants the best for me.

Love seems to be rare these days. With the major focus on humans ripping each other apart with poisonous words, there is not much room for love. BUT GOD sees those who love JESUS. HE can see though all of the sin, anger and hatred to find those who are truly seeking HIM.

HE guides those HE loves with the HOLY SPIRIT and forgives all sin through HIS SON, JESUS. GOD is marvelous and I feel loved by HIM. I am no longer lonely because of GOD.

• Do you feel unloved?
• Do you feel dejected?
• Will you love JESUS so HE can open your eyes to how much GOD loves you?