Journey Through Life

Journey Through Life

Genesis 47: ⁷ Then Joseph brought in his father Jacob and set him before Pharaoh; and Jacob blessed Pharaoh. ⁸ Pharaoh said to Jacob, “How old are you?”

 

⁹ And Jacob said to Pharaoh, “The days of the years of my pilgrimage are one hundred and thirty years; few and evil have been the days of the years of my life, and they have not attained to the days of the years of the life of my fathers in the days of their pilgrimage.” ¹⁰ So Jacob blessed Pharaoh, and went out from before Pharaoh.

 

¹¹ And Joseph situated his father and his brothers, and gave them a possession in the land of Egypt, in the best of the land, in the land of Rameses, as Pharaoh had commanded. ¹² Then Joseph provided his father, his brothers, and all his father’s household with bread, according to the number in their families.

 

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Joseph brought “Jacob” to Pharaoh and the first thing out of Jacob’s mouth was a blessing. Pharaoh asked Jacob how old he was. Jacob’s answer was interesting.

 

My Observations:

• Jacob mentioned he was younger than his father’s age who died at one hundred eighty and his grandfather died at one hundred seventy five.
• Jacob said his days were “few and evil” as if he regretted being a swindler.
• Jacob finally changed into the leader GOD wanted him to be, so he blessed Pharaoh.

 

All of his adult life, Jacob pursued what he wanted. He tried to circumvent tradition from a swindler who gave him a wife he did not want. He took his brother’s birthright and blessing. He lived in fear of many people groups because of his actions.

 

Jacob seemed to have regrets. BUT GOD used him anyway. GOD was the GOD of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. HE is the same GOD to you and me. Once we truly realize we are inadequate to save ourselves, we can turn to CHRIST for salvation.

 

But it does not stop there. We then have to realize that we are HIS creation and our lives are not to be squandered with our own pursuits. As we approach the finish line, we have an opportunity to serve GOD to our fullest each day!

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about the conversation between Jacob and Pharaoh?
• Have you ever looked back on your life in regret?
• Do you realize that today is given to you to start serving GOD despite the past?

Renamed for Purpose

Renamed for Purpose

Genesis 17: ¹⁵ Then God said to Abraham, “As for Sarai your wife, you shall not call her name Sarai, but ^[g]Sarah shall be her name. ¹⁶ And I will bless her and also give you a son by her; then I will bless her, and she shall be a mother of nations; kings of peoples shall be from her.”

 

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Continuing HIS conversation with Abraham, GOD turns the focus to Sarai. HE renamed her Sarah and said HE would “bless her.” Sarai was barren. She may have grown up by the ways of the Chaldeans, a nomadic group of raiders. She believed that people could be property and mistreated Hagar, her Egyptian slave.  She thought of a plan to fulfill GOD’s promise, possibly because of shame for being barren.

 

My Observations:

• Sarai was blessed by GOD from birth.
• Sarai had strong faith as she went through famine, almost being taken and battles without complaining.
• Sarai, like Abraham, wanted GOD to win, but took matters in her own hands.

 

Renaming Sarai to Sarah was significant. GOD specifically had a purpose for her. HE would eventually perform a miracle that would show people HE is in control of the human body and spirit. GOD would bless Sarah, “AND” give Abraham a son.

 

This blessing would touch Sarah on many levels. For ninety years she was barren, then GOD tells Abraham she would be “the mother of nations; kings of peoples shall be from her.”  Sarah would not only be a mother, but a mother of many races and people groups. GOD erased Abraham’s and Sarah’s past and gave them purpose for HIM. This required them to be new.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think GOD told Moses about changing Sarai’s name to Sarah?
• Have you ever felt like giving up on GOD’s purpose for you?
• Will you continue with strong faith in GOD’s purpose for you today?

Go Out

Go Out

Genesis 8: ¹⁵ Then God spoke to Noah, saying, ¹⁶ “Go out of the ark, you and your wife, and your sons and your sons’ wives with you. ¹⁷ Bring out with you every living thing of all flesh that is with you: birds and cattle and every creeping thing that creeps on the earth, so that they may abound on the earth, and be fruitful and multiply on the earth.” ¹⁸ So Noah went out, and his sons and his wife and his sons’ wives with him. ¹⁹ Every animal, every creeping thing, every bird, and whatever creeps on the earth, according to their families, went out of the ark.

 

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“It worked! The ark GOD had me build actually worked!” should have been the thought that crossed Noah’s mind. But it didn’t seem like this was the case. Noah had never seen rain before. He and his family were closed up in an ark for a large portion of a year. He had never seen GOD’s wrath, only heard about it.  He saw the Garden of Eden and knew he could not enter it. He had many conversations with the LORD and understood HIM well.

 

My Observations:

• Every human Noah tried to convince was now gone.
• Noah followed instructions well and was probably nervous to make a mistake.
• GOD had to tell Noah to leave the ark even though he knew the ground was dry.

 

Waiting on the LORD for the next step was a quality that Noah demonstrated well. “I’m not going out there” was shown in his hesitancy and cautious approach. BUT GOD had another stage of life for Noah and his family. “Be fruitful and multiply” were the same instructions given to his ancestors Adam and Eve.

 

These words were a blessing instead of a curse. GOD bestowed confidence in humans to create life, just as HE intended. The ordeal was over. But Noah had become comfortable in the ark and was used to the security of the small space. BUT GOD had a different agenda. HE wanted the earth populated with humans, animals and bugs. Noah had to leave his adopted comfort zone to do what GOD saved him for.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about this conversation with Noah?
• Has GOD ever rescued you and you have become comfortable with something that HE meant to be temporary?
• Have you asked GOD for the faith to “go out” of your comfort zone to do the next step of HIS plan for you?

A Woman of Purpose

A Woman of Purpose

Revelation 12: ¹³ When the dragon realized that he had been thrown down to the earth, he began to pursue the woman who had given birth to the boy. ¹⁴ She was given the two wings of a large eagle in order to fly to her place in the desert, where she will be taken care of for three and a half years, safe from the dragon's attack. ¹⁵ And then from his mouth the dragon poured out a flood of water after the woman, so that it would carry her away. ¹⁶ But the earth helped the woman; it opened its mouth and swallowed the water that had come from the dragon's mouth. ¹⁷ The dragon was furious with the woman and went off to fight against the rest of her descendants, all those who obey God's commandments and are faithful to the truth revealed by Jesus. ¹⁸ And the dragon stood on the seashore.

 

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“You shouldn’t go for it” was the bad advice I almost listened to. A person, who I thought was in my corner, was trying to convince me to not take a promotion because it was “uncertain.” But I took the position anyway. Later I found out that he wanted the position.

 

• I was being deceived.
• I was being pursued by someone who did not have my best interest in mind.
• I was being protected.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, continued the vision he was given about Satan being thrown out of heaven to earth. He calls him “the dragon”  who displayed great powers. Since the birth of JESUS could not be stopped, the dragon tried to harm “the woman” or GOD’s people who obey HIS commands and are faithful to the truth revealed by JESUS.

 

My Observations:

• GOD gives us purpose of spreading HIS message of love.
• GOD knows the obstructions we will face because of Satan’s fury.
• GOD gives us wings and tells the earth to swallow up the attacks of the enemy in order to protect us.

 

Protection is required when we profess JESUS as the Savior. I mean, I used to think life would be easier if I accepted JESUS as my Savior, but it got worse! Attack after attack, I wondered if GOD was listening or if HE had the power HE said HE had. Fortunately for me, GOD is gracious.

 

HE sees to attack of Satan from way off and provides you and me with the right thing at the right time. HE gives us “wings” when we need to fly and summons the earth to absorb the enemy’s attack. I am glad to be part of HIS bride as I continue in my faith.

 

Challenge

• What protection does the writer mention?
• Have you ever been attacked and did not know how to respond?
• Will you seek GOD’s protection by believing in JESUS and know that HE has given you purpose, so HE will protect you today?

No Bribes Accepted

No Bribes Accepted

1 John 2: ¹⁵ Do not love the world or anything that belongs to the world. If you love the world, you do not love the Father. ¹⁶ Everything that belongs to the world—what the sinful self desires, what people see and want, and everything in this world that people are so proud of—none of this comes from the Father; it all comes from the world. ¹⁷ The world and everything in it that people desire is passing away; but those who do the will of God live forever.

 

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Being teased about my tattered clothing got old. “One day I will have enough money to buy my own clothes” I muttered to myself. I got a job and made enough to buy the latest trend. I got another job and was able to buy more stuff and bigger things.

 

I admired where I had gotten to.. “Can you send out a message about GOD?” someone asked me. “No! I have a title that does not align to that sort of message.”

 

• I found myself with no time to serve GOD.
• I enjoyed the lavish vacations, large houses and immense amounts of money I was given.
• I justified why I did not have time for GOD and figured HE would simply forgive me and I could live it up here on earth.

 

John attempted to open the spiritual eyes of those who follow JESUS. He took away any excuse by including “anything” and “everything” to his warning. He focused on some broad topics that included selfish desires, envy, jealousy, lust, and pride, of which do not come from GOD.

 

My Observations:

• Satan attempted to bribe JESUS with food, power and money, BUT JESUS refused because HE had to die for the sins of all of humanity.
• Satan wants you and me to not speak about GOD, or to view those who do in a negative way.
• “Anything” and “everything” that keeps me from speaking about JESUS should not be a desire of mine.

 

Trying to save myself causes me to lose myself. I mean, when I try to acquire more of what the world has to offer, I end up losing my relationship with GOD. The scary thing is, GOD will allow me to walk away from HIS love, because HE does not want to force the relationship.

 

GOD has a desire that all humans become saved. HE wants you and me to proclaim the Good News about JESUS, who was resurrected to overcome the world. Houses, cars, clothes, jewelry, gadgets, titles and accomplishments will pass away. I am glad GOD’s love will last forever in my life.

 

Challenge

• Is the news from the writer extreme to you?
• What would you keep if you, knowingly, would walk away from GOD by keeping it?
• Will you turn your eyes to GOD and have HIM open up your heart to desire HIS will over yours today?

Motive Foundation

Motive Foundation

1 John 2: ¹² I write to you, my children, because your sins are forgiven for the sake of Christ. ¹³ I write to you, fathers, because you know him who has existed from the beginning. I write to you, young people, because you have defeated the Evil One.
 
¹⁴ I write to you, my children, because you know the Father. I write to you, fathers, because you know him who has existed from the beginning. I write to you, young people, because you are strong; the word of God lives in you, and you have defeated the Evil One.

 

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“Why did you do that?” was the question posed to me when I did something “bad.” “I don’t know” was my childish reply, hoping the answer would suffice. That answer never worked.

 

• I did not know my motive was being questioned.
• I was too insecure to own up to the fact that I simply wanted to do the “bad” thing.
• After a while, I planned for my motives to be questioned by making sure I hid the “bad” things I was doing a little better.

 

John gently tells everyone why he wrote the letter. He was not trying to create authors of letters, rather he attempted to lift everyone up by providing a foundation to remain encouraged.

 

My Observations:

• Our sins are forgiven because of JESUS.
• It is an honor to know the one who existed from the beginning.
• Those who follow JESUS are strong and the Word of GOD lives in us and we have defeated the Evil one.

 

“Why am I doing this?” is a question I have to ask myself regularly. I mean, only I know if my motive is steeped in insecure untruths, mixed in with the desire to get “my” way and only “my” way. BUT GOD sees the heart.

 

HE know when my motives are impure and when they are at their best. By believing in JESUS, my motives can be cleansed to align with GOD. Everything I do needs to be filtered through the question “LORD is this what YOU want me to do?” I am glad GOD is willing to guide my motives to serve HIM wholeheartedly.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think the writer repeats himself?
• What words of encouragement do you trip over in this passage?
• Will you accept the foundation of encouragement by giving GOD your motives and allow HIM to guide you to HIS way of doing things today?

Legacy of Purpose

Legacy of Purpose

2 Peter 1: ¹² And so I will always remind you of these matters, even though you already know them and are firmly grounded in the truth you have received. ¹³ I think it only right for me to stir up your memory of these matters as long as I am still alive. ¹⁴ I know that I shall soon put off this mortal body, as our Lord Jesus Christ plainly told me. ¹⁵ I will do my best, then, to provide a way for you to remember these matters at all times after my death.

 

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“What would you do differently if you knew you were going to die in the next two weeks?” was the poignant question posed to us at the Promise Keeper’s conference. I really hadn’t thought of that, but after pondering I realized I would love more, spread the Gospel more and praise more. The next statement was the game changer. “Then why don’t you start doing this right now.”

 

• I wanted conditions to be perfect for me to do what I should have been doing all along.
• I felt bad that I could not blame anyone but myself for not doing the things I should have been doing.
• I realized then, that I need to make a change in my life that would actively include GOD’s love spread to my family, friends and strangers.

 

Peter got some startling news directly from JESUS. After leaving the ministry, Peter went back to fishing. JESUS appeared to the disciples in a miraculous encounter. HE told Peter about his death after reinstating him in the ministry. Peter, from then on, spoke boldly about JESUS.

 

My Observations:

• People are important, BUT GOD is most important.
• Being busy doing life is okay, but following GOD is the ultimate.
• Working hard to stay alive and healthy is not bad, but showing people the way to believe in GOD is the pinnacle of existence.

 

Selfish people redefine what is important. I mean, when people ask the question “What would you like to be known by?” they may answer by saying “Money” or “Fame” or “Acquiescing to selfish needs of greedy people.” They may not come out directly and say those things, but it may be at the heart of the matter. GOD wants something different.

 

Each and every day, GOD wants HIS people to remember JESUS. HIS death and resurrection is the most important event that ever happened to mankind. All GOD wants us to do is to love one another so people would turn their eyes to HIM. I gladly leave a legacy of spreading JESUS as the most important gift I could give my family, friends and strangers.

 

Challenge

• What do you think is the writer’s definition of being “firmly grounded in the truth?”
• Have you examined your life’s purpose to see if it includes what GOD wants you to do?
• Will you live your life with GOD’s purpose from this day forth so you can be used to being many people to HIM from now on?

 

Unchanged Purpose

Unchanged Purpose

Hebrews 6: ¹⁶ When we make a vow, we use the name of someone greater than ourselves, and the vow settles all arguments. ¹⁷ To those who were to receive what he promised, God wanted to make it very clear that he would never change his purpose; so he added his vow to the promise.

 

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When the new leadership arrived, the place felt different. New policies were provided in orientations and the same people I used to work with had now changed. The purpose behind my job was now different.

 

• I felt there was a “bait” and “switch” happening.
• I did not like change, especially when it did not seem to benefit me or my coworkers.
• It seemed like top management needed an excuse for changing things, and all of us would “lose.”

 

Paul, the assumed writer, spoke about “GOD’s unchanging purpose. GOD made a vow based on HIS own name since there is no one greater than HIM. HE revealed this vow to humans to give assurance that HE would keep HIS promise. GOD wanted to make it clear that HE has a purpose that will never change.

 

My Observations:

• GOD will never ever change HIS purpose, namely to save the lost.
• GOD will always love me because I believe in HIS SON, JESUS, who sacrificed HIMSELF just to be with me.
• GOD does not change HIS mind or switch HIS purpose when I, or others, do something wrong.

 

Humans play the “change the rules” game all the time. I mean, when life gets uncomfortable, simply change the rules until comfort fits, even if it means throwing out GOD’s word. Unfortunately, true “comfort” and “peace” are owned by GOD, so walking away from HIS statutes leaves me guessing, lying to myself, hurt or dead. GOD doesn’t want this.

 

HE made promises to always be with me and to guide me, even through difficult times. HE promised to live inside me and cleanse me of all unrighteousness when I confess I need HIM. I am glad HE reveals HIS love for me daily and I am willing to follow HIM.

 

Challenge

• What does GOD make “very clear” according to the writer?
• Have you ever felt GOD’s conditions for you can change based on how much or how little you sin?
• Have you thrown out GOD’s ways because it does not follow “your” relative truth?
• Will you seek GOD’s unchanging ways so HE can make you whole and to change the course of your life today?

Purpose Given

Purpose Given

1 Timothy 2: ³ This is good and it pleases God our Savior, ⁴ who wants everyone to be saved and to come to know the truth. ⁵ For there is one God, and there is one who brings God and human beings together, the man Christ Jesus, ⁶ who gave himself to redeem the whole human race. That was the proof at the right time that God wants everyone to be saved, ⁷ and that is why I was sent as an apostle and teacher of the Gentiles, to proclaim the message of faith and truth. I am not lying; I am telling the truth!

 

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“Please take notes” were the words asked of me that I was insulted by. I had been invited to a meeting with the highest executives in the company and they only wanted me to take notes!? But after doing it for a while, I realized, I was learning about concerns that I never would have.

 

• I admit, I did not like my purpose.
• I wanted to “be” something other than someone else’s lacky.
• I almost missed something huge by not wanting to start out small and learn.

 

Paul explained purpose. Not just his, but all humans. He explained that GOD “wants everyone to be saved and to come to know the truth.” JESUS took this purpose seriously and took on the sins of mankind to redeem the whole human race. He then proclaims that he too wants this as his purpose.

 

My Observations

• Without understanding GOD’s desire, I cannot “be” what HE made me for.
• I have to love what GOD loves in order to see the purpose HE made me for.
• GOD’s purpose for me may be simpler than I would like it to be, but I may be missing a lesson that would grow me.

 

Wanting to “be” something else can get in the way of my purpose. I mean, wanting to be a celebrity, or have a different shape or to not be what I am can cause me to miss out on the purpose I have been given right here and now.

 

I may be given the opportunity to reach the person in front of me with the greatest message one could ever hear, namely JESUS died for you and me and is alive! Instead, I may grouse about my business or job or family state. GOD forgives me and fills me up to see HIS purpose and wants me to be thankful for being chosen to go out and seek HIS Kingdom.

 

Challenge

• What do you think is “good and pleasing” to the LORD as the writer puts it?
• Have you ever wanted to take classes or read books on how to be a better you?
• Be honest, do you like you?
• Will you see yourself as GOD sees you and accept your purpose which is to save the lost today?

 

Prayer

Dear LORD, thank you for giving this reader purpose. Help him or her accept YOUR purpose so abundant life can be given. amen

You ARE Special

You ARE Special

2 Thessalonians 1: ¹³ But we are bound to give thanks to God always for you, brethren beloved by the Lord, because God from the beginning chose you for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth, ¹⁴ to which He called you by our gospel, for the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. ¹⁵ Therefore, brethren, stand fast and hold the traditions which you were taught, whether by word or our epistle.

 

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Feeling lonely, I sought out people who would be “friendly.” When I found a group, I was always welcome, but something was missing. Each group seemed similar, promoting “unity” and “service” But was there more.

 

• I felt there had to be more than being in a group.
• In some groups, I felt lonelier because something was missing.
• I noticed some people made the “group” their purpose in life, but there had to be more.

 

Paul, Silas and Timothy express their gratitude for those who believe in JESUS as the Savior. They explain how GOD has called people for a purpose and set them apart for HIS own. They also urge the people to stay special by learning about JESUS.

 

My Observations

• Thankfulness for others stretches beyond any group I can get into.
• GOD chose me for salvation and set me apart by the SPIRIT and belief in the truth.
• Glory of our LORD JESUS CHRIST is given to me because GOD chose me.

 

GOD chose you and that is what makes you special. I mean, groups can make me feel special for a moment, but something will always be missing, namely GOD. I know I have to remain on this earth and live in the world, so GOD doesn’t mind me socializing. But that is not my purpose.

 

From the time I was born until the time JESUS returns, GOD gives me purpose. HE will examine every word and deed to see if HE is involved. All the things I thought were “special” may not be to HIM. HE will reward me for the things I truly did in HIS name. I am grateful GOD holds onto me even when I let go of HIM.

 

Challenge

• What is the calling the writers are speaking about?
• Have you ever been part of a group yet felt a higher calling?
• Will you fulfill your purpose by letting go of the world’s solutions and focus on what GOD has called you to do today?

Entrusted

Entrusted

1 Thessalonians 2: ³ Our appeal to you is not based on error or impure motives, nor do we try to trick anyone. ⁴ Instead, we always speak as God wants us to, because he has judged us worthy to be entrusted with the Good News. We do not try to please people, but to please God, who tests our motives.

 

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When the phone rang, I answered and held a great conversation with my grandmother. “Tell your parents I called and to call me back” were the words given to me. As the day went on, I went outside to play, then eat, then go to bed. I never told anyone about the call.

 

• I had forgotten to pass on the message.
• I was not prepared to remember something important.
• I did not withhold information maliciously, I simply forgot.

 

Paul, Silas and Timothy start out by saying their motives were pure when it came to the message of GOD. Other speakers may have tried to lead the people astray, but Paul, Silas and Timothy held themselves to a higher standard. They knew they would be judged by GOD for misrepresentation but even more, they were excited about being “entrusted” with HIS message.

 

My Observations

• JESUS forgave me of all my sins for HIS because HE loves me and has a purpose for my life.
• GOD wiped away all my sins so I could speak on HIS behalf, even though HE does not need me to do so.
• GOD entrusted me with HIS valuable Good News and wants me to keep it pure, even if people are not pleased with the fact that HE will also judge everyone.

 

Pleasing people can get me in trouble. I mean, when My motives are to gain more power or to manipulate people to get my way, I may try to please him or her temporarily until I get what “I” want. BUT GOD sees through my motives and wants me to act differently.

 

Instead HE approaches my life in an unusual way. HE knows I am a sinner yet HE gives me the most important message that all humans need to hear, believe in and shout namely, JESUS is LORD!. I am glad GOD sees my motives and entrusts me anyway.

 

Challenge

• Why did the writers make an appeal?
• What does it mean to be judged worthy by GOD?
• Will you accept JESUS as your Savior so HE can cleanse you of all unrighteousness and entrust you with HIS Good News today?

Keep Going "Froward!"

Keep Going "Froward!"

Philippians 3: ¹² I do not claim that I have already succeeded or have already become perfect. I keep striving to win the prize for which Christ Jesus has already won me to himself. ¹³ Of course, my friends, I really do not think that I have already won it; the one thing I do, however, is to forget what is behind me and do my best to reach what is ahead. ¹⁴ So I run straight toward the goal in order to win the prize, which is God's call through Christ Jesus to the life above.

 

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Wearing newish shoes was special to me because it happened once a year. This pair was cloth with rubber soles. I accidentally stepped in some dog poop. It got all over the shoes. I tried wiping the shoe on the grass to no avail. The stench wreaked the entire day at school, so much so that it brought unwanted attention to me.

 

• I was constantly reminded about my mistake.
• I was upset that my newish shoes were ruined and I had to wait a whole year for another pair.
• I was embarrassed because I distracted other people with my problem.

 

Paul gives everyone a great suggestion. “Keep striving to win the prize for which CHRIST JESUS has already won…” He then states he is not perfect, which implies that he made mistakes and will continue to make mistakes. He gives a solution for making mistakes. “Reach what is ahead.”

 

My Observations

• The enemy constantly reminds me of my mistakes, BUT GOD reminds me HE has forgiven me.
• I replay mistakes over and over with regret, BUT GOD shows me I am still on HIS path.
• Embarrassment plagued my thoughts BUT GOD gave me purpose which wiped away my shame.

 

“GOD’s call through CHRIST to life above” is the one and only true goal. I mean, all other goals I set for myself will be riddled with problems and failures. Like stepping in dog poop, these issues remind me that things could be better or “new” or “different.” I then complain to GOD which takes me off HIS path.

 

Fortunately GOD picks me up and places me back on HIS path. HE bends down and washes my feet, making everything new. Old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. I am glad GOD is the goal and HE allows me to make mistakes because HE can clean up any mess and make me new.

 

Challenge

• Does the writer think he is perfect?
• What does perfection look like in your mind?
• Have you ever been disappointed with yourself for falling or failure?
• Will you be forgiven through CHRIST JESUS so you can run straight towards HIS purpose and allow HIM to wipe the sticky mess off your feet today?

True Identity

True Identity

Ephesians 3: ¹⁴ For this reason I fall on my knees before the Father, ¹⁵ from whom every family in heaven and on earth receives its true name. 

 

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As I was walking down the hall someone shouted a negative label at me. My youthful response was to get a large friend and threaten a fight. The label was not who I was so it enraged me.

 

• I reacted to a false label.
• I wasted time and energy over something that was not true.
• I was not ready to take the high road so I stooped down to fight.

 

Paul uncovers something interesting. He says each person has a “true name” which implies the family name I have is false. HE was revealed that GOD provides purpose through a name.

 

My Observations

• My true identity will be revealed to me when I am with the FATHER.
• I will one day understand my true purpose in union with CHRIST.
• Knowing I have a true name gives me hope.

 

People want to be GOD so we label each other in ways to make others feel inferior. BUT GOD is supreme and is the only one who holds the true label of HIS creation. HE made each person carefully and with a special purpose. Unfortunately, there is an adversary who lies and confuses people to seek a worldly identity.

 

People are separated and lied to so JESUS becomes a problem rather than the only solution. Political thieves try to hijack the name of JESUS but fail miserably because GOD knows HIS true flock. I am glad GOD holds my identity and has adopted me into HIS glorious family.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer appeal to identity when entering into prayer?
• Have you ever been called a false label or possibly mislabeled yourself?
• Will you stop seeking validation from the world and know you are loved fully by GOD who holds your true purpose and identity in CHRIST who is our Savior today?

Made Special

Made Special

Ephesians 3: ⁷ I was made a servant of the gospel by God's special gift, which he gave me through the working of his power. ⁸ I am less than the least of all God's people; yet God gave me this privilege of taking to the Gentiles the Good News about the infinite riches of Christ, ⁹ and of making all people see how God's secret plan is to be put into effect.

 

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Doing an assessment of my skills, looks and accomplishments when I was insecure made me feel like I was not going to get anywhere soon. I saw people reach heights and overcome hurdles, yet I felt I had done nothing and was headed nowhere.

 

• I felt like I was insignificant.
• I compared myself to other people and felt bad about what I had done.
• I thought I was not special and had no gifts or talents.

 

Saul was zealous about GOD. He persecuted those who were not following the rules to the letter. He was given permission to have people killed. GOD called Saul to preach about the love of JESUS, and renamed him Paul, who wrote this letter. He stopped persecuting the church, lost his worldly title, became insignificant to humans and became special to GOD.

 

My Observations

• GOD sees me when humans do not.
• GOD made me special to reach those HE wants me to reach.
• GOD wants me to see that being HIS servant is a privilege.

 

Standing firm on the belief of JESUS can make anyone feel insignificant. I mean, the world praises celebrities, politicians, rich and powerful people. It sometimes seems like those who follow JESUS are the opposite of famous people. BUT GOD sees different.

 

When one person believes in JESUS there is incredible rejoicing in heaven! To the world, this seems insignificant, but to GOD, this means everything. HE stores up treasures in heaven for those who use their special gift to make people see HIS secret plan put into effect. I gladly use my gifts and talents to serve GOD by the working of HIS power.

 

Challenge

• Can you hear the maturity of the writer?
• Why do you think he calls it a privilege to take the Good News to the Gentiles?
• If you feel less than special, will you stop looking at yourself and look at GOD’s incredible power and simply point one person to the infinite riches of CHRIST today?

 

Given a Task

 

Given a Task

Galatians 2: ⁶ But those who seemed to be the leaders—I say this because it makes no difference to me what they were; God does not judge by outward appearances—those leaders, I say, made no new suggestions to me. ⁷ On the contrary, they saw that God had given me the task of preaching the gospel to the Gentiles, just as he had given Peter the task of preaching the gospel to the Jews. 

 

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When my parents said “clean up this” or “clean up that” it felt like drudgery, but I would do it. But when the teacher was passing out “tasks” she overlooked my raised hand and picked someone behind me. “What about me?” I asked. She said “Okay, you can clean up the book area.”

 

• I was delighted to be chosen!
• I was excited to be part of something.
• I was willing to do what it took when I was given a task to do.

 

Outward appearances were not what Paul was going for. He had run into phony people who spoke about GOD on the surface, but were seeking fame and praise. Those who were truly following JESUS saw Paul’s actions from his heart. He was given a task by GOD to spread the Gospel to the Gentiles.

 

My Observations

• GOD looks at my heart actions versus surface actions.
• GOD knows when I am being sincere versus self-serving.
• GOD gives me tasks because HE wants me to succeed in growing HIS kingdom.

 

Getting tasks from GOD happens daily. I mean, HE wants me to pray for those around me and hope that all I encounter in a given day, accept JESUS as the Savior. The task HE gives to us is usually not small,

 

HE wants all to be saved. Unfortunately there are times when I get distracted by the days worries or a season or even a specific day. GOD loved me so much that HE gave me HIS one and only SON so I could believe in HIM and be saved. I am glad I can look beyond the day and see HIS eternal love.

 

Challenge

• What task is the writer given?
• Why is his task different than Peter’s?
• What task do you believe GOD is giving you?

 

Dear LORD, please give the reader a clear task for today. Let him or her know YOUR love. amen

What is the Real Motivation?

 

What is the Real Motivation?

Romans 15: ¹⁴ My friends: I myself feel sure that you are full of goodness, that you have all knowledge, and that you are able to teach one another. ¹⁵ But in this letter I have been quite bold about certain subjects of which I have reminded you. I have been bold because of the privilege God has given me ¹⁶ of being a servant of Christ Jesus to work for the Gentiles. I serve like a priest in preaching the Good News from God, in order that the Gentiles may be an offering acceptable to God, dedicated to him by the Holy Spirit. ¹⁷ In union with Christ Jesus, then, I can be proud of my service for God. 

 

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Each day seemed to bring on a new trouble. It was a rough time and “everything” was going wrong. I had not focused on GOD very much, so I turned to HIM as a last resort. “Maybe if I am good, then I can get out of the trouble I’m in” I thought to myself.

 

I stopped doing a few sins I blatantly knew I was doing in hopes that the trial would end sooner. When the trial was over. I went back to the same sins.

 

There have been times when I tried to act righteous to get my way.

There have been times when I tried to use manipulation on GOD to get my way.

There have been times when I tried to be “good” temporarily so I could get my way.

 

Paul expresses his surety in the capabilities of those he wrote the letter. He also mentions his reason for writing. Paul wanted “everyone” to be accepted by JESUS, not just those he was familiar with. He would not be proud of himself until the Gentiles believed in JESUS.

 

GOD wants me to have a true purpose.

GOD wants my purpose to be permanent.

GOD wants JESUS to be known as the Savior and HE wants me to have this as my purpose.

 

When getting out of trouble becomes my purpose, I would desperately do anything. I mean, I lose sleep, panic and worry my way into a solution that usually fails and then I panic more. GOD wants to change that. HE brings me back to having purpose in my life, namely teaching people about the Good News of JESUS.

 

With purpose, temptations go away. It is easier to say “no” to fear, doubt and worry when GOD is my true purpose. Staying in the trial becomes easier when I have purpose because I know GOD wants me right where HE has me and HE is with me. I can then have peace wherever HE places me.

 

What is your purpose in life?

What is GOD’s purpose for you?

Will you accept GOD’s real purpose HE made you so you can speak about JESUS today?

Purpose Found Me

 

Purpose Found Me

Romans 10: ¹⁸ But I ask: Is it true that they did not hear the message? Of course they did—for as the scripture says:

 

“The sound of their voice went out to all the world;
    their words reached the ends of the earth.”
¹⁹ Again I ask: Did the people of Israel not understand? Moses himself is the first one to answer:
“I will use a so-called nation
    to make my people jealous;
and by means of a nation of fools
    I will make my people angry.”
²⁰ And Isaiah is even bolder when he says,
“I was found by those who were not looking for me;
    I appeared to those who were not asking for me.”

 

²¹ But concerning Israel he says, “All day long I held out my hands to welcome a disobedient and rebellious people.”

 

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Walking down the hall between classes, a teacher asked me if I would like to be in her class next semester. She said “I will teach you about computers.” “What’s a computer?” I asked having just left a typing class. I took the class and entered the industry as my career.

 

• There have been times when I was given something I was not looking for.
• There have been times when I was invited into something I never knew anything about.
• There have been times when I found something special that I was not looking for.

 

Moses and Isaiah wrote what GOD told them. Both wrote about the heart of GOD as revealed to them. Paul encapsulates their words in an effort to explain that people have been sent to speak about JESUS, but the message was not heard. Surely a chosen people would listen to JESUS. Unfortunately, they listened to religion over GOD HIMSELF.

 

• GOD sought me out when I was not looking for HIM.
• GOD gave me purpose when I was not asking for it.
• GOD guided me when I was foolishly wandering.

 

Looking back I can see times where GOD was the one who intervened in the situation. HE brought people to me and I had a choice. Speak about my needs, wants and desires or speak life and JESUS. When I chose to speak about JESUS, GOD said “Well done.” HE then took care of my wants, needs and desires.

 

GOD has wants, needs and desires too. HE wants me to be part of HIS family, HE needs me to believe in JESUS so I can be adopted in HIS family, HE desires that all humans show love to one another so they will believe. HE gives me purpose that I was not looking for. I gladly accept HIS purpose.

 

• What do you think your purpose is in life?
• Have you assigned purpose to a job or a title?
• Will you thank GOD for providing you with purpose so HE will increase what HE has for you to do today?

Act or React?

 

Act or React?

Romans 9: ¹⁰ And this is not all. For Rebecca's two sons had the same father, our ancestor Isaac. ^11-12 But in order that the choice of one son might be completely the result of God's own purpose, God said to her, “The older will serve the younger.” He said this before they were born, before they had done anything either good or bad; so God's choice was based on his call, and not on anything they had done. ¹³ As the scripture says, “I loved Jacob, but I hated Esau.”

 

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Wanting to fit in, I joined in the mischievousness when the teacher left the room. I was teased for being “smart”. That was before the term “nerd” was popular. I wanted to prove I could be cool.

 

Go in the coat closet with that girl, was the dare. I did not know what to do in the coat closet, so I agreed. We stood there for a while. When we came out, the teacher was back and laughter filled the room.  The teacher held me after class and said “I will overlook this because it is not how you normally act.” I didn’t do that again.

 

Many times I have been spared based on being known.

Many times I did not get in trouble for something I did wrong.

Many times I should have been punished for something I did, but instead, I was given grace.

 

Paul uses Jacob and Esau as an example of GOD’s choice. GOD saw the two kids before they were born and chose one before they had done anything “good” or “bad.” HE told their mother, Rebecca, of HIS choice.

 

GOD knew I would believe in HIM before I believed in JESUS.

GOD knew every sin I would do, yet HE chose me to live.

GOD knew I would mess up time and time again, yet HE saved me.

 

Looking at GOD through dirty eyes, paints HIM to be the bad guy. I mean, when I question HIS existence, or why HE did something, I am looking at it from the sin I was born with. Sometimes my eyes are dirtier than others.

 

I question “Why do bad things happen to good people?” I then question, “Why tell someone about JESUS if the choice was made for them?” These are valid and difficult questions. I am then provided with an answer. “I AM” says the LORD.

 

GOD, the creator, showed HIS love for me, enough to follow HIS own rule that somehow states, any sin, no matter how small, separates humans from HIM by death. JESUS took on that sin and saved me from eternal death. My reaction is to praise what HE did.

 

Are you trying to earn GOD’s favor by acting good?

Do you judge others when they act ”bad?”

Will you focus on the grace and rejoice that GOD loved you so much that HE died for you so you would not have to be punished forever?

Answer the Call

 

Answer the Call

Romans 8: ²⁸ We know that in all things God works for good with those who love him, those whom he has called according to his purpose. ²⁹ Those whom God had already chosen he also set apart to become like his Son, so that the Son would be the first among many believers. ³⁰ And so those whom God set apart, he called; and those he called, he put right with himself, and he shared his glory with them.

 

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Avoiding the phone became a normal occurrence. I let the answering machine screen the calls because I did not have any money and could not see getting any money in the near future. Yes, I said answering machine. I would hear the creditors asking for money I did not have. The call would only make me feel worse.

 

• Many times I avoided calls because I was afraid of the caller.
• Many times I avoided calls because I thought I could not do what the caller was asking.
• Many times I avoided calls because I knew I would have to confess that I owed something, but could not repay.

 

Paul says something that can be a little hard to understand. He talks about GOD choosing people. The sinful question that tries to negate GOD choosing people is “Why?” Paul does not explain “why”, rather he encourages those who have been chosen by GOD to know the calling has purpose. This purpose brings the good of GOD, so HIS calling is one that gives power.

 

• GOD has called me for HIS purpose.
• GOD has chosen me to become like JESUS.
• GOD has put me right with HIMSELF so I can do HIS will.

 

Answering GOD’s call is strange. I mean, HE seems to call at the wrong time, in the wrong way. Just like a creditor calling when I have no money, GOD seems to call when I am not ready or have nothing to give. BUT HIS call needs to be answered.

 

GOD wants me to be powerless so I can truly point to HIS power. HE gives me purpose and shares HIS glory with me. The purpose is to share the love of JESUS with as many as GOD has given me. I accept GOD’s calling on my life.

 

• Is GOD trying to speak to you but you are too busy or worried with life?
• Does your bills or desires make you not want to hear GOD’s calling?
• Will you let go of the control you have on your life and allow GOD to give you purpose that is meaningful today?