Unexpected Breakthrough

Unexpected Breakthrough

Genesis 38: ²⁷ Now it came to pass, at the time for giving birth, that behold, twins were in her womb. ²⁸ And so it was, when she was giving birth, that the one put out his hand; and the midwife took a scarlet thread and bound it on his hand, saying, “This one came out first.” ²⁹ Then it happened, as he drew back his hand, that his brother came out unexpectedly; and she said, “How did you break through? This breach be upon you!” Therefore his name was called Perez. ³⁰ Afterward his brother came out who had the scarlet thread on his hand. And his name was called Zerah.

 

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When Tamar was ready to give birth, a midwife got ready. When the first baby stuck out his hand, the midwife tied a scarlet thread around it. But his brother came out unexpectedly.

 

My Observations:

• Tamar’s midwife must have delivered a lot of babies and knew by Tamar’s size, that she was having twins.
• Zerah was expected to come out first, but Perez came out unexpectedly.
• Perez would become the one who would be in the lineage of JESUS.

 

Humans expect things to happen one way, BVUT GOD makes them happen another. The midwife knew a lot about delivering babies, therefore had an expectation. But that expectation was met with the unexpected. Same goes with our lives. We expect GOD to act one way, and HE does something unexpected.

 

Unlike Esau and Jacob, there was no fighting in the womb. Both brothers were mentioned in the lineage of JESUS. Zerah got a shout out, but Perez had the descendants. The King of kings and the LORD of Lords would come through an unexpected breakthrough.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD go into detail to Moses about the birth of Perez and Zerah?
• What are your expectations of GOD?
• Can you believe that GOD is orchestrating an unexpected breakthrough for you?

Light and Feeling Good

Light and Feeling Good

Revelation 16: ¹⁰ Then the fifth angel poured out his bowl on the throne of the beast. Darkness fell over the beast's kingdom, and people bit their tongues because of their pain, ¹¹ and they cursed the God of heaven for their pains and sores. But they did not turn from their evil ways.

 

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After saying the words “Rain, rain, go away, come again another day” I looked outside to see if it worked. It seemed to rain harder. There would be no outside activity that day.

 

• I placed my hope in a song.
• I thought I could control the weather by saying some words.
• I really wanted “my” way so I placed my hope in something that I thought would get “my” way.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, saw the fifth angel pour out the fifth bowl filled with GOD’s anger. The beast, who got his power from Satan, had established a throne and had claimed to take over the world. This bowl caused darkness, more pain and sores. The people knew this plague was from GOD, yet they refused to turn from their evil ways.

 

My Observations:

• JESUS is light and wants me to take HIS light into a dark world.
• JESUS is life and wants me to be salt to spread HIS life.
• JESUS is the Way, the Truth and the Life, and wants me to bring people to HIS one and only path.

 

To avoid darkness, pain and sores, there is only one road, JESUS. I mean, I may have problems, pain and persecution right now, but they will not match what will come when GOD’s full anger is poured out. BUT GOD has a remedy.

 

For those who believe in JESUS as the Savior from GOD’s anger, HE will provide light, no more pain and no more suffering. HE will keep every word HE has spoken and HE promises believers will live in light with HIM forever. This calls for endurance. I gladly endure!

 

Challenge

• What message was the writer conveying that was similar to the verses before this one?
• Have you ever been stubborn and refused to change your ways, knowing GOD would heal you?
• If you find yourself unable, or unwilling to change for GOD, will you ask HIM to help you in the areas of your life you refuse to surrender to HIM, so HE will guide you to light and no pain today?

Ready for Action

Ready for Action

1 Peter 1: ¹³ So then, have your minds ready for action. Keep alert and set your hope completely on the blessing which will be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed. ¹⁴ Be obedient to God, and do not allow your lives to be shaped by those desires you had when you were still ignorant. ¹⁵ Instead, be holy in all that you do, just as God who called you is holy. ¹⁶ The scripture says, “Be holy because I am holy.”

 

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Feeling that I needed some “relief” from the pressures of work, I decided to go to the party. After that decision, I decided to do other things that wound up being more distractions from life. When I woke up on Monday, I realized, I had not studied at all for the quiz.

 

• I was not ready.
• I blamed the quiz on not being ready.
• I felt worse because I was not ready and now I had more pressure that required “relief.”

 

Peter tried to get everyone off a vicious cycle of not being ready. He provides a path of “readiness” that includes hope, blessing, obedience and holiness. These actions will provide rewards from CHRIST.

 

My Observations:

• Sin distracts me away from the peace of GOD, and I start to lose hope
• Disobedience causes me to challenge GOD which in turn blinds me from HIS blessings.
• Various desires stay top of mind, causing me to remain ignorant of who GOD really is.

 

Spiritual blindness and deafness are the result of not listening to GOD. I mean, when I go too long doing things “my” way, I stop listening to GOD, who has a better way. HE allows me to commit as many sins as I would like. HE warns me of the consequences and is just to bring judgment on me if I disobey. BUT GOD has grace that I do not understand.

 

HE gives me a better path that I can follow. JESUS lived a perfect life. HE is my example. HE lived in “holiness” and suggests that I do the same. The enemy wants me to act contrary to JESUS. I am glad HE gave me many examples of how to live an abundant life.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer mention the mind?
• Have you ever thought of a plan to give yourself pleasure or “relief” from the pressures of this world?
• Have you considered that not every plan you think of is good for you?
• Will you consider placing all of you plans, thoughts and desires before the LORD and allow HIM to guide you to a better path today?

 

Living Hope

Living Hope

1 Peter 1: ³ Let us give thanks to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! Because of his great mercy he gave us new life by raising Jesus Christ from death. This fills us with a living hope, ⁴ and so we look forward to possessing the rich blessings that God keeps for his people. He keeps them for you in heaven, where they cannot decay or spoil or fade away. ⁵ They are for you, who through faith are kept safe by God's power for the salvation which is ready to be revealed at the end of time.

 

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Feeling anxious about my pending job evaluation, I prepared my statement of the year’s accomplishments. When I sat in front of my boss, I could see that the evaluation was already written, signed and provided to me. It did not match what I thought.

 

• I put a lot of hard work into the job, only to get an average evaluation.
• I thought I did the right things to get recognized, but was told that other people performed better.
• I lost hope in the job, because I could not have worked any harder than 60 to 80 hours per week.

 

Peter discussed hope that cannot be stolen and will never decay. This hope is in GOD’s rewards in heaven for each of those HE calls HIS own.

 

My Observations:

• GOD’s rewards for me are based on HIS love HE has for me.
• GOD sees what I  do for HIM and loves it so much that HE stores up rewards in heaven.
• GOD’s rewards are not based on human performance, rather HIS overflowing love for me.

 

Knowing that being born into sin seemed unfair to me. I mean, because I was born I deserve to go to Hell?! Yes. But the other side to the unfairness is quite amazing. Just by belief in JESUS not only saves me from eternal separation from GOD, but gives me unimaginable rewards that can never fade.

 

GOD provides me with living hope to look beyond this life. This hope propels me into action for HIM. I am glad GOD cares enough for me to save me and reward me greatly.

 

Challenge

• What hope is the writer talking about?
• Have you ever placed your hope in something or someone, only to be met with disappointment?
• Will you seek living hope that actively seeks what GOD wants so you can receive rewards in heaven beyond your imagination?

High Hopes

 

High Hopes

James 5: ⁷ Be patient, then, my friends, until the Lord comes. See how patient farmers are as they wait for their land to produce precious crops. They wait patiently for the autumn and spring rains. ⁸ You also must be patient. Keep your hopes high, for the day of the Lord's coming is near.

 

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Seeing the results of growing vegetables, I planted more the next year. I waited in anticipation, but noticed “everything” was not growing fast enough. I added water to the ungrown seeds. Nothing. Later, I found out I was adding too much water.

 

• I was impatient.
• My efforts to speed things up ended up killing everything.
• My high hopes were broken apart because of my impatience.

 

James gives an analogy, comparing hope to farming. He admires how patient farmers are as they tend to their crops, knowing they can’t make things happen in their time, rather they had to wait until the right time.

 

My Observations:

• GOD has extreme patience with me.
• GOD wants me to learn to have patience with HIS plans HE has for me.
• GOD has the power to handle all my circumstances as HE advances HIS plan for me.

 

“Be Patient” are words that are sometimes difficult to hear. I mean, what about “this” trouble or “that” problem? GOD sees everything that can make me scared, worried or doubtful and provides comfort.

 

HE knows all the things that can run through my mind and HE steps in to intervene. HE knows the plans HE has for me. Plans to prosper and not to harm me. I am so glad GOD is in control of my plans. This keeps my hopes high.

 

Challenge

• What is the result of patience mentioned by the writer?
• Has GOD ever promised something to you and you lost patience waiting?
• Will you not get weary and remain hopeful because GOD is in control of all your circumstances today?

A Better Hope

 

A Better Hope

Hebrews 7: ¹⁵ The matter becomes even plainer; a different priest has appeared, who is like Melchizedek. ¹⁶ He was made a priest, not by human rules and regulations, but through the power of a life which has no end. ¹⁷ For the scripture says, “You will be a priest forever, in the priestly order of Melchizedek.” ¹⁸ The old rule, then, is set aside, because it was weak and useless. ¹⁹ For the Law of Moses could not make anything perfect. And now a better hope has been provided through which we come near to God.

 

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Trying to fix my car, I looked around my apartment to use what I had. I found a coat hanger that could be used as my bandage. I worked hard carefully bending the coat hanger into the shape I thought would work. I started the car and took off, proud of my solution. Weeks later, the coat hanger broke. It couldn’t handle the stress.

 

• I placed my hope in something temporary.
• I thought of the solution and I was proud.
• I had to keep going back to the temporary solution until I got it fixed permanently.

 

Paul, the assume writer, labels the Law of Moses as the “Old Rule.” He then says it could not make anything perfect. Before people lost hope, he then comes back and says three is “a better hope.”

 

My Observations:

• My hope in myself or other humans can be faulty, but when I place my hope in GOD, it is permanent.
• My hope fails when I put it in money, jobs or businesses, but when I trust in the LORD, my hope stands forever.
• My hope falls apart when I look at circumstances out of my control, but when I give my hope to JESUS, I understand that HE will work out all things for HIS good and to my favor.

 

Placing hope in the world may cause me to make some terrible decisions for myself and for other people. I mean, I may place my hope in the pleasures of this world to resolve the pain I may be going through. This may help temporarily, but the pain comes back, sometimes more intensely.

 

GOD wants me to have a permanent solution to all my problems. HE wants me prepared for difficulties, versus ready to wilt at even the lightest of problems. HE wants me to have “a better hope” which is in CHRIST JESUS. I gladly place my hope in HIM.

 

Challenge

• What hope is the writer talking about?
• Have you ever placed your hope in money or relationships, or jobs and lost that hope?
• Will you take your hope off of temporary things and place it on something permanent and everlasting, namely JESUS, who loves you and cares about this life and the everlasting one?

Safe and Sure

 

Safe and Sure

Hebrews 6: ¹⁸ There are these two things, then, that cannot change and about which God cannot lie. So we who have found safety with him are greatly encouraged to hold firmly to the hope placed before us. ¹⁹ We have this hope as an anchor for our lives. It is safe and sure, and goes through the curtain of the heavenly temple into the inner sanctuary. ²⁰ On our behalf Jesus has gone in there before us and has become a high priest forever, in the priestly order of Melchizedek.

 

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Wanting to be “rich”, I asked a rich person for investment advice. He told me about investing in  penny stocks. I tried it by investing in a random company. I watched the stock go up and my hope was elated. But when the stock went down, my hope receded. I did not sell fast enough and lost the amount I invested.

 

• My hope was based on the performance of a hunch.
• My hope was placed in the thought of getting money.
• My hope was not stable because money would come and go.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, concludes his discussion about GOD’s promises being reliable. Since the purpose of GOD does not change, we can place our hope in HIM. This hope is strong enough to go into the inner sanctuary of GOD.

 

My Observations:

• Hope is important enough to GOD that HE observes it to see if HE is at the center of it.
• Prayer is something that is important to GOD, so much so, that HE keeps each hope filled prayer in a spiritual bowl.
• Faith is something important to GOD and HE looks at it in measures and rewards me for when I exercise it.

 

Humans value money, fame and power. BUT GOD values hope, prayer and faith. These conflict with one another. I mean, when I try to use human methods to “feel” better, I can leave GOD out of the equation and rely on my own plans and abilities. When things go terribly wrong, I lose hope. BUT GOD has a remedy.

 

HE wants me to place my hope in JESUS, who was sinless and died to redeem the world. The tactic of not believing in “sin” or of having “my” truth will not stand up in front of the Living GOD. Only JESUS, who is the High Priest, will have the last word on all that I do. HE will examine my hope, prayers and faith and will deem me as being clean. I am glad I can place my hop in HIM.

 

Challenge

• What does the writer urge you to do?
• Have you ever placed your hope in money or a person or a job and been disappointed?
• Will you place your hope in JESUS, so it can be sternal and know HE has the best for you today?

Powerful Belief

 

Powerful Belief

Philemon 1: ²¹ I am sure, as I write this, that you will do what I ask—in fact I know that you will do even more. ²² At the same time, get a room ready for me, because I hope that God will answer the prayers of all of you and give me back to you.

Final Greetings

²³ Epaphras, who is in prison with me for the sake of Christ Jesus, sends you his greetings, ²⁴ and so do my co-workers Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke.

²⁵ May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with you all.

 

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“Why didn’t you attend the meeting?” was the question posed to me. “I had to work” was my response. Cynicism had increased my skepticism of people who would make “change” happen. Yet another leader was paraded in front of us, boasting about the changes made at the last place he or she was at.

 

• I had become pessimistic.
• I had lost hope in other people.
• Little did I know, I had also lost hope in GOD.

 

Paul sends his final greeting to Philemon after appealing to him on Onesimus’ behalf. He mentions to “get a room ready” even though he had no idea if and when he would get out of prison. Paul based his command on hope.

 

My Observations

• Faith is the substance of things I hope for and the evidence of things I cannot see.
• Belief in something GOD promised me should result in acting like it is really going to happen.
• GOD has the right to say “No” or “Wait” or “Yes” and I should act like HE says “yes” until HE says “No.”

 

Believing in GOD like a child is powerful. I mean, when HE says HE will deliver me, heal me and be with me, I should believe it without a shadow of a doubt. I should act like HE will do as HE says. Unfortunately, I think GOD should do everything HE says HE will do right away, in my anxious timing.

 

HE takes HIS time when I want HIM to speed up. HE puts holes in my plan that I want solidified. HE then opens my eyes to see I need to place my total trust in HIM to truly see HIS power. I am glad GOD has the power to deliver me and to raise me up when I am down.

 

Challenge

• What is the writer hoping for?
• Have you ever needed or desired something, yet have lost your hope that it would ever happen?
• Will you renew your hope in GOD by placing true belief in HIS promises HE made to you today?

Spiritual Exercise

Spiritual Exercise

1 Timothy 4: ⁶ If you give these instructions to the believers, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, as you feed yourself spiritually on the words of faith and of the true teaching which you have followed. ⁷ But keep away from those godless legends, which are not worth telling. Keep yourself in training for a godly life. ⁸ Physical exercise has some value, but spiritual exercise is valuable in every way, because it promises life both for the present and for the future. ⁹ This is a true saying, to be completely accepted and believed. ¹⁰ We struggle and work hard, because we have placed our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all and especially of those who believe.

 

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Tired of being a weakling, I joined a gym. I could barely lift any weight, so I stood around until I perceived people were not looking at me. “You need to work out with us” were the words I was surprised and horrified to hear. A group of powerlifters taught me the technique of lifting while introducing me to a regiment.

 

• I was embarrassed, but had to start somewhere.
• I was undisciplined and needed something to make me continue with a regiment.
• I struggled and worked hard and eventually saw some results.

 

Paul gives Timothy a regiment to follow. He likened the regiment to that of physical exercise. He urged Timothy to feed his spirit regularly with faith and true teaching. He gave him a diet to stay away from certain unhealthy spiritual foods like “godless legends.” Then he give him the spiritual exercise routine, namely struggle and work hard.

 

My Observations

• Spiritual exercise takes me through problem after problem after problem, until I can get strong enough to let GOD handle them.
• Admitting I am weak in many areas gives me the prayers I can say to GOD to grow me.
• My hope in GOD is strengthened after each trial is completed.

 

Spiritual workouts are difficult because I am not in control of the trials. BUT GOD has an answer. HE wants me to prepare for trials by feeding myself with HIS words of faith and truth. HE also wants me to focus on the present, knowing only HE can bring me through “this” trial or “that” one.

 

GOD wants me to grow up but this takes a regiment to keep my mind clear from things that would guide me away from HIS hope. HE allows trials to come into my life, not to break me, but to establish muscles of faith, truth and hope. I am glad GOD cares enough to grow me spiritually.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think the writer compares spiritual exercise to physical exercise?
• Have you ever done something that took a regiment of discipline and got some benefit out of it?
• Will you get on a regiment  that will benefit you in this present life and eternally by focusing in on GOD’s word and looking at trials as exercise to help you grow in the LORD 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?

Directed Actions

Directed Actions

1 Thessalonians 1: ² We always thank God for you all and always mention you in our prayers. ³ For we remember before our God and Father how you put your faith into practice, how your love made you work so hard, and how your hope in our Lord Jesus Christ is firm.

 

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Fearing I would not get “respect” I lied about my age. I was in my low to mid-twenties and was tired of people not listening to anything I had to say in meetings. On another occasion, I was embarrassed that I could not go out on the town like “everyone” else, so I snuck out the house. Another time, I was angry at the slow driver ahead of me, so I darted into the next lane to pass, hit a pothole and bent my rim.

 

• Fear made me inconsistent.
• Shame made me unstable.
• Impatience made me react too quickly.

 

Paul, Silas and Timothy were excited about the people they wrote to. They were thankful to see examples of faith, love for all and hope in JESUS. These qualities, directed their actions to be consistent in front of everyone.

 

My Observations

• Faith is a quality GOD wants me to use to be consistent, even when I cannot see the finish line.
• Love is GOD, so HE wants me to act like HIM because HE made me in HIS image.
• Hope in JESUS should guide all my decisions, so I can have a firm foundation.

 

Actions driven out of fear, shame and impatience never seem to work out well. I mean, when I am fearful, I tend to make hasty decisions. Shame makes my actions hidden and impatience makes my actions not thought through well. In all cases listed, I find myself in trouble.

 

BUT GOD has a remedy. HE provides faith, shows me love and gives me hope when things look hopeless. HE gives me a new life to live, one with purpose. HE decided to live inside me so HE can guide me to actions that are pleasing to HIM. I am glad the HOLY SPIRIT can direct my steps.

 

Challenge

• Why are the writers thankful?
• Are there areas of your life that are not on a firm foundation, causing fear, shame and impatience?
• Will you place your faith, love and hope in CHRIST and decide whom you will serve, “you” or HIM, today?

Firm and Sure Foundation

 

Firm and Sure Foundation

Colossians 1: ²³ You must, of course, continue faithful on a firm and sure foundation, and must not allow yourselves to be shaken from the hope you gained when you heard the gospel. It is of this gospel that I, Paul, became a servant—this gospel which has been preached to everybody in the world.

 

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Things were finally going well at the time. After rededicating myself back to the LORD, it seemed like many of my worries and fears were drying up. I felt that I could speak about GOD freely in praise and pay bills at the same time! But as more and more money came in, I ran into some people who were wealthy. “Let’s go to a strip club” one of the rich and powerful married men said.

 

• I wondered If I was going to become an outcast if I did not go.
• I immediately tried to think of excuses versus saying “no.”
• I wanted to remain on the foundation of “wealth” and was almost willing to compromise.

 

Paul tells everyone that the Gospel is the only firm and sure foundation. All other philosophies, learnings, accomplishments or desires outside of CHRIST can present the possibility of discouragement. This would lead to having the “hope” shaken away.

 

My Observations

• JESUS wants me to remember HIM each and every day so I will not forget the hope HE provides.
• GOD wants me to let go of the thing that is causing me to feel discouraged and be willing to go HIS path.
• GOD wants me to stand on HIS firm and sure foundation which is CHRIST’s salvation.

 

“Complicated” is an understated word these days. I mean, anyone with a computer or smartphone can immediately become a philosopher who obtains a great following. BUT GOD  wants the following. HE sees those who dwell in the land of pride and cannot pull him or herself from the philosophy of the day.

 

These wanderers drift from thing to thing with no rest and no peace. GOD wants to provide rest, not more work. HE gives peace through the Gospel of JESUS and wants everyone who is willing to experience HIS love. I gladly give up the philosophies of the world to speak about JESUS and I will not be embarrassed. By GOD.

 

Challenge

• What “must” you do according to the writer?
• Have you ever been excited about GOD and later been discouraged?
• Will you “continue faithful on a firm and sure foundation” of JESUS, so you will not waiver when difficult or plentiful times come your way?

Hope Never Lost

Hope Never Lost

Colossians 1: ⁵ When the true message, the Good News, first came to you, you heard about the hope it offers. So your faith and love are based on what you hope for, which is kept safe for you in heaven.

 

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Special mementos were something I dragged around through life. One box contained pictures, cards and other items from my childhood through adult life. One day I would look at these items with fond memories, I thought. Unfortunately, the box got wet and moldy in transport from one place to the next. I had to toss everything.

 

• I wanted to hold onto that stuff.
• I labeled these items as special and wanted to keep them at all costs.
• I was unable to keep the items safe and they were lost anyway.

 

Paul admires those who have placed their faith in the Good News about JESUS when they heard about it. Since the Good News offers hope that cannot be tarnished, stolen or damaged by anything on earth, placing hope in this was the right move.

 

My Observations

• GOD has a special place for me that is far greater than this earth.
• My hope is based on the Good News of JESUS being raised from the dead.
• Nothing can steal, tarnish, dent, rip, crack, blotch, tear or ruin the rewards GOD has for me.

 

Shortsightedness makes me think things in this world can be special. I mean, material things like houses, cars, tech, clothes, art, jewelry and other items can sometimes make me temporarily feel special, but can be lost.

 

Since the world’s pleasures are temporary, I fall into a trap of a lifelong pursuit that ends up being hopeless. BUT GOD provides a remedy. “Let it go” is what HE says. Anything that cannot be taken into heaven is not worth losing my soul over. HE wants me to care about my relationship with JESUS and do the same for others. I am glad I can place my hope in something that will be eternally available.

 

Challenge

• What “hope” is the writer speaking of?
• Have you ever placed your hope in something or someone and it or they got damaged?
• Do you have regrets in missing some event or thing?
• Will you learn about the Good News of CHRIST so you can place your hope in what HE has done for you and so you can see other people need to hear HIS wonderful message today?

Called to Hope

Called to Hope

Ephesians 1: ¹⁸ I ask that your minds may be opened to see his light, so that you will know what is the hope to which he has called you, how rich are the wonderful blessings he promises his people, ¹⁹ and how very great is his power at work in us who believe. This power working in us is the same as the mighty strength ²⁰ which he used when he raised Christ from death and seated him at his right side in the heavenly world. 

 

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Needing cash, I thought of a plan. I would buy a lottery ticket, win and all my troubles would be over. I bought one ticket and waited for the weekly numbers to be announced. All of the numbers I selected were either one number higher or lower than the chosen. What are the odds?

 

• I had lost hope and wanted a quick fix.
• I prayed over the lottery ticket and did not win.
• I was reminded that my hope should be greater than money.

 

Paul writes a request to the LORD on behalf of the people . He wants everyone to have their mind opened by the HOLY SPIRIT to be enlightened to the “hope” GOD has called us to.

 

My Observations

• GOD’s hope is far greater than me being rich and powerful.
• Spreading GOD’s hope is valuable to HIM.
• Believing in JESUS gives me access to the same power that raised HIM from the dead.

 

Hope can be fleeting when placed in money, jobs, people or something other than GOD. I mean, even when I get money or a job or a group of people, all of these things change and sometimes have issues. BUT GOD is still there.

 

GOD is far greater than coping or getting a few dollars. HE has promises that can never be taken away. HIS power is unmatched and blessings are rich. HE opens the eyes to those who believe, so they may see HIS light and hope HE has called them to. I am grateful for HIS power and place my hope in HIM.

 

Challenge

• What things is the writer asking for?
• Have you ever lost your hope?
• Will you know that it is alright to acknowledge how hurt you have been and ask GOD to open your eyes to HIS rich and wonderful blessings for you that are far greater than anything the world has to offer?

According to Plan

According to Plan

Ephesians 1: ¹¹ All things are done according to God's plan and decision; and God chose us to be his own people in union with Christ because of his own purpose, based on what he had decided from the very beginning. ¹² Let us, then, who were the first to hope in Christ, praise God's glory!

 

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Not getting the job I really, really wanted felt bad at the time. But looking back, I am glad I did not get the position because I probably would not be writing this note today. In fact, as I review the disappointments in life, I can see how I was protected from myself.

 

• I have been disappointed.
• I have felt dejected.
• I have had moments where I had lost hope.

 

Encouragement was the thing Paul felt the people needed. He had been through a lot and knew those who follow JESUS would face some difficulties. He let’s everyone know that GOD did the choosing, so we must praise HIM because we now have hope.

 

My Observations

• GOD had a plan that included choosing me.
• GOD made a way back to HIM when I chose JESUS.
• I can praise GOD because my hope is in JESUS.

 

Things may not go according to my plan, but they will always go according to GOD’s plan. The things I feel are terrible and sometimes destructive, raise up people who believe strongly in JESUS. When CHRIST was born, the king at that time had all children killed off so he could remain in power.

 

Wars, famine and disease plague the planet, yet there are those who bow their knees to GOD, praising JESUS for their salvation. All these things are according to HIS plan which cannot fail. HE chose us and allowed HIS SON to be our Savior. I gladly praise HIM for HIS decision.

 

Challenge

• What “things” is the writer speaking of?
• Do you think that life should only have “good” moments because you believe in JESUS?
• Will you be encouraged that HE loves you, especially through your trials, and has a wonderful plan for you today?

 

Time for Faith

Time for Faith

Galatians 3: ²³ But before the time for faith came, the Law kept us all locked up as prisoners until this coming faith should be revealed. ²⁴ And so the Law was in charge of us until Christ came, in order that we might then be put right with God through faith. ²⁵ Now that the time for faith is here, the Law is no longer in charge of us.

 

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Tired of things going wrong in my life, I felt like giving up, but where was I to turn? Bars and hanging out had lost its luster. “There has got to be something more to life than this!” I said to myself. As I walked into my apartment building, a neighbor said “What church do you go to?” “Here we go again with that question” I thought. But I could not stop thinking about it.

 

• I had no place to put my hope.
• I had turned away from GOD and labeled everyone a hypocrite.
• I had tried to do things under my own power and sometimes it worked, but I still had troubles.

 

Paul gives everyone a short history lesson. Before JESUS was born as a human to die for our sins, the Law was given to govern the relationship with GOD. The Law was like giving a toddler a lit match with a choice to light an explosive or a candle. Rules made out of explosives were used to guide everyone to the candle. People failed at following the Law.

 

My Observations

• When I see myself falling into the trap of hopelessness, GOD wants me to have faith.
• When I am in a situation that seems like there is no way out, GOD wants me to see HIM as the answer.
• When I fail, fall down, or fall apart, GOD wants me to believe in JESUS as my Savior in this life and the next.

 

Seasons come and go. Sometimes high, sometimes low. BUT GOD wants me to be stable so I can face the highs and lows with confidence that I am not alone. JESUS changed everything. HE put all of humanity right with GOD as long as faith in HIM is placed above everything.

 

JESUS wants me to know it is time for me to place my faith in HIS way and let go of trying to be perfect as the Law says I should be. I am glad I am released from the Law so I can have hope in the middle of my failures.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer speak about different periods of time?
• Have you ever become exhausted by trying hard to “please” GOD?
• Will you accept HIS perfect gift for you and believe JESUS cares about your life on earth and eternity?

Origin of Hope

Origin of Hope

Galatians 1: ¹¹ Let me tell you, my friends, that the gospel I preach is not of human origin. ¹² I did not receive it from any human being, nor did anyone teach it to me. It was Jesus Christ himself who revealed it to me.

 

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Watching what people put their hope in was all I could do. I didn’t have enough money to buy the clothes they adorned themselves with or stuff they had, nor was I stronger or more fit than the next. I thought these were important because the rich and famous were studied, remembered and noted in daily conversations.

 

• Life seemed hopeless because I did not have what others had.
• Life seemed unfair because other people had more.
• Life seemed foggy because I couldn’t see my future getting any “better.”

 

Luke accounts for GOD’s calling on Paul’s life in the book of Acts. Three he mentions how Paul was blinded and heard the voice of GOD. His calling was supernatural and Paul was dedicated from that day forward to only spreading the Gospel of JESUS.

 

My Observations

• GOD calls all humans to serve HIM.
• GOD wants me and everyone else to exclaim the name of JESUS as the one and only Savior.
• GOD loves all HIS creations and has a supernatural calling for those who receive HIM.

 

People may say “yeah, yeah you were called” in a scoffing fashion. If so, then proof is not necessary. GOD’s calling on every human’s life is something that cannot be explained to those who choose not to believe.

 

JESUS is the one and only true Savior who deserves to be mentioned daily over celebrities and famous people. HIS calling is not to be cheapened by labeling it as “strange” or “stubborn.” The Gospel of JESUS does not originate from humans rather GOD HIMSELF. I am grateful JESUS revealed HIMSELF to me.

 

Challenge

• Does the writer seem to be mentioning something strange or unbelievable?
• Do you remember when you first believed that JESUS was and is the Savior?
• Will you consider that HE speaks to people daily through HIS word and true followers who test their actions through HIS word and who are guided by the HOLY SPIRIT?
• Will you place your hope in JESUS today so you will receive an abundant life?

 

From Praise to Hope

 From Praise to Hope

Romans 15: ⁷ Accept one another, then, for the glory of God, as Christ has accepted you. ⁸ For I tell you that Christ's life of service was on behalf of the Jews, to show that God is faithful, to make his promises to their ancestors come true, ⁹ and to enable even the Gentiles to praise God for his mercy. As the scripture says,

 

“And so I will praise you among the Gentiles;
    I will sing praises to you.”
¹⁰ Again it says,
“Rejoice, Gentiles, with God's people!”
¹¹ And again,
“Praise the Lord, all Gentiles;
    praise him, all peoples!”
¹² And again, Isaiah says,
“A descendant of Jesse will appear;
    he will come to rule the Gentiles,
    and they will put their hope in him.”

 

¹³ May God, the source of hope, fill you with all joy and peace by means of your faith in him, so that your hope will continue to grow by the power of the Holy Spirit.

 

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“Let’s go on a bike hike” someone older said to us. Having only been out of the neighborhood a few times, I was excited to go on this adventure. We rode further than I had ever ridden in my life. We crossed the railroad tracks and the neighborhood looked different.

 

When we arrived at a park, the people called us by names of racial hatred. We were chased. I didn’t know much about prayer, but I started saying “Our FATHER…”

 

• There have been times when I just wanted to live together.
• There have been times when I just wanted to enjoy life together.
• There have been times when I just wanted to have peace, but could not find it because I was not accepted.

 

Paul’s plea was primarily to the Jews, but was universal in nature. He expressed something that is hard for humans, namely “accept one another.” But how? He then explains why do it. “For the glory of GOD, as CHRIST has accepted you.”

 

• GOD wants to show me that HE is faithful to make HIS promises come true.
• GOD wants to enable me to praise HIM for HIS mercy.
• GOD wants to be the source of my hope.

 

Praising GOD for HIS mercy is only the beginning of the relationship. I mean, when I confess I am in need of a Savior, JESUS accepts me, because HIS resurrection to life gave HIM all authority. Now that HE has accepted me, HE wants me to accept others, even those who do not look or act like me.

 

GOD then wants me to grow beyond confession. HE wants to fill me with joy and peace. But there is one caveat. I must place my faith in HIM. But what if my faith is small and wavering? HE has that covered by placing the HOLY SPIRIT in me. Now my “hope” will continue to grow and I can accept others as CHRIST accepted me.

• Is your hope small because you feel oppressed?
• Do you think there is no way out because of another group?
• Will you add “acceptance” to your heart and believe in JESUS so HE will provide the HOLY SPIRIT, who will grow you with HIS power today?

Patient Hope

 

Patient Hope

Romans 8: ²² For we know that up to the present time all of creation groans with pain, like the pain of childbirth. ²³ But it is not just creation alone which groans; we who have the Spirit as the first of God's gifts also groan within ourselves as we wait for God to make us his children and set our whole being free. ²⁴ For it was by hope that we were saved; but if we see what we hope for, then it is not really hope. For who of us hopes for something we see? ²⁵ But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.

 

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Standing out in the snow, I leaned my head in the street. There was a certain headlight I was looking for that would bring me comfort. I was waiting on a bus and it seemed like it would never come. I knew it was on its way, but I looked for those headlights, as if to will the bus to come faster. The snow came down harder and I simply had to wait.

 

• There have been many times when I hoped for something to arrive a little faster.
• There have been many times when I knew something was on its way, but I could not see it.
• There have been many times when I felt miserable waiting, yet I could not do anything else.

 

Paul switches from creation to humans in his explanation of how everyone and everything is waiting on GOD to reveal HIS children. He says “We who have the Spirit as the first of God's gifts also groan within ourselves as we wait for God to make us his children and set our whole being free.” He then explains that it was hope that saved us and it is hope that will keep us waiting in patience.

 

• GOD gives me patience by believing HE has the situation taken care of.
• GOD provides for me when I cannot see what I am looking for.
• GOD delivers me out of the darkness, even though I sometimes feel like I am stumbling.

 

“Wait on the LORD” are some tough words to swallow. I mean, cant HE just come back and get all this over with? GOD wants the full number of those who will believe in JESUS to be accounted for. Since we are all still here, I have to patiently wait.

 

GOD is gracious in my waiting. HE gives me purpose to reach those who HE sends me to so they can be added to that number. I cannot make JESUS return any faster, but I can serve HIM with hope and patience until HE does.

 

• Are you weary from waiting?
• Do you feel like giving up?
• Will you place your hope in JESUS and stop looking at the current situation that GOD has already taken care of?