Now What?

Now What?

Revelation 18: After this I saw another angel coming down out of heaven. He had great authority, and his splendor brightened the whole earth. ² He cried out in a loud voice: “She has fallen! Great Babylon has fallen! She is now haunted by demons and unclean spirits; all kinds of filthy and hateful birds live in her. ³ For all the nations have drunk her wine—the strong wine of her immoral lust. The kings of the earth practiced sexual immorality with her, and the merchants of the world grew rich from her unrestrained lust.”

 

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Waiting for my parents to overlook the keys to the car, I slid them out of sight. They were going on vacation and I planned on using the car without permission. They left and the keys were mine! I started the car and as I was driving, noticed the engine was getting hot. I checked the fluid levels and there was no coolant in the car. I spent all my money just trying to get the car to work.

 

• I got what I wanted but did not want what I got.
• I added problems by my sneakiness that I had not accounted for.
• I was in worse shape by doing something I should not have been doing.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, heard another angel, who had great authority, announce that the great city Babylon has fallen. This was the thing that tempted humans into fulfilling their lusts for sex, power and money. The evil plan to tempt people away from GOD failed and evil was turned against evil.

 

My Observations:

• My evil plans never work, BUT GOD’s loving plans always succeed.
• My plans that use the world’s methods may temporarily succeed, BUT GOD rewards me eternally for following HIS plans.
• It seems like every time I used evil as my plan, it backfired and then I ended up in worse shape.

 

“Now what?” is the question that I have to ask myself when I realize my sin put me in worse shape. I mean, do I keep going down the sinful path or do I stop, turn around and go towards the way that I know is right and would benefit me? Unfortunately, there have been times when I have chosen to be wrong and fall down with my sins. BUT GOD has that in HIS plans.

 

HE saw my sins and made a way for me to return to HIM. By confessing my sins, HE is faithful and just to cleanse me of all unrighteousness. HE restores my soul and leads me on the path of righteousness. I am glad GOD gives me another chance.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think the writer was informed about the angel’s authority?
• Have you ever did something wrong and now you have to live with your mistake?
• Will you tell GOD about your mistake so HE can erase it and restore you and give you a better path to walk today?

Street Justice

Street Justice

Revelation 17: ¹⁵ The angel also said to me, “The waters you saw, on which the prostitute sits, are nations, peoples, races, and languages. ¹⁶ The ten horns you saw and the beast will hate the prostitute; they will take away everything she has and leave her naked; they will eat her flesh and destroy her with fire. ¹⁷ For God has placed in their hearts the will to carry out his purpose by acting together and giving to the beast their power to rule until God's words come true.

 

¹⁸ “The woman you saw is the great city that rules over the kings of the earth.”

 

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After being robbed, I was shaken. I feared sitting in certain seats on the bus, or even going down certain streets. Someone said to me, “Don’t worry, those people who did you harm will face street justice.” In other words, someone will rob the robber.

 

• I saw “street justice” happen to thugs in my neighborhood.
• I heard about “street justice” happening to gang members.
• I witnessed thugs beating up the thugs who once bullied me.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, got another statement from the angel who took him into the desert. The angel explained that the great city that caused humans to sin, would face “street justice’ from the beast and from those who may be leaders of countries. Their jealousy of the power would cause them to desire to take down part of Satan’s kingdom.

 

My Observations:

• GOD will allow evil people to take down evil people.
• GOD wants my heart to remain focused on HIM and not return evil for evil.
• GOD does not want me to celebrate the demise of anyone, because it could happen to me.

 

“Turnabout is fair play” is a term that means, it is alright to do evil to someone who has done evil to me. But this causes a problem to the believe. I mean, the world may look away at my “street justice” BUT GOD will not look away. All my sins come with consequence. BUT GOD gives me a better way.

 

Instead of committing sin, GOD wants me to give my enemies over to HIM. “Vengeance is mine says the LORD, I will repay.” HE is sovereign and just to carry out what HE said HE would. HE sees the victim and the foe. HE knows who is the oppressor and listens to those who cry out to HIM. I give my enemies to GOD.

 

Challenge

• Why does the angel remind the writer that the woman was the great city?
• Have you ever been wronged and wanted to do something wrong to “that” person?
• Will you give “that” person over to GOD so your conscience will be clean today?

Super Powers

Super Powers

Revelation 17: ⁹ “This calls for wisdom and understanding. The seven heads are seven hills, on which the woman sits. They are also seven kings: ¹⁰ five of them have fallen, one still rules, and the other one has not yet come; when he comes, he must rule only a little while. ¹¹ And the beast that was once alive, but lives no longer, is itself an eighth king who is one of the seven and is going off to be destroyed.

 

¹² “The ten horns you saw are ten kings who have not yet begun to rule, but who will be given authority to rule as kings for one hour with the beast. ¹³ These ten all have the same purpose, and they give their power and authority to the beast. ¹⁴ They will fight against the Lamb; but the Lamb, together with his called, chosen, and faithful followers, will defeat them, because he is Lord of lords and King of kings.”

 

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Wanting to be a superhero, I grabbed a bath towel and tied it around my neck. The other kids did the same. We held our arms out in front of us and now, we were flying! We jumped, skipped, ran and made ray gun noises that had to be explained. “I just shot you with my ray powers!”

 

• We wanted to be superheroes.
• Even though there were a lot of us, our army was not strong.
• When each household said it was time to come in, we had to lay down our pretense and go inside.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, was given the meaning of the seven heads and ten horns of the beast. During this time, people will think they are in power and will gather together to form a futile fight against JESUS.

 

My Observations:

• I have no power, BUT JESUS, who has all authority, is my strength.
• I have no authority, BUT JESUS, who has been place above everything, shares HIS authority with me.
• I have no way to change situations, BUT JESUS, hears my cry and understands everything I can and will go through, and HE empathizes with me to provide the HOLY SPIRIT to guide me.

 

There is no power greater than JESUS. I mean, I cannot go anywhere the get away from HIS power, nor can I usurp HIS authority. Not height, depth or breadth can keep me away from HIS love. HE is worthy of all honor, praise and glory.

 

Humans rise to power temporarily, but if they do not bow to JESUS their efforts are futile. Their attempts to enslave or to take over the world will be met with the power and authority of JESUS who is LORD of lords and KING of kings! I place my faith in HIM.

 

Challenge

• How did the angel get the writer’s attention?
• Have you ever wanted to be in power?
• Will you surrender your power to JESUS so HE will guide you through the HOLY SPIRIT to a place of victory today?

Affirmed

Affirmed

Jude 1: ¹² With their shameless carousing they are like dirty spots in your fellowship meals. They take care only of themselves. They are like clouds carried along by the wind, but bringing no rain. They are like trees that bear no fruit, even in autumn, trees that have been pulled up by the roots and are completely dead. ¹³ They are like wild waves of the sea, with their shameful deeds showing up like foam. They are like wandering stars, for whom God has reserved a place forever in the deepest darkness.

 

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“What about me?” I cried out to the LORD. I saw inexperienced people seem to excel, while I was sitting at my desk, waiting to be elevated. I asked mentors what I should do. “Promote yourself” they said. Something inside me took pause to the advice. A leader chose me and said “I am glad you are not like the others by doing self-promotion.”

 

• I was actually going to start self- promoting.
• I was tired of waiting to be noticed.
• I wanted a crowd to affirm “my” talents.

 

Jude continues his warning. He originally was going to write about salvation, but the HOLY SPIRIT led him to discuss “godless people” who slipped in, pretending to know JESUS as the Savior, but had hidden agendas to acquire fame. Jude compares these people to “dirty spots”, Clouds with no rain, trees that produce no fruit and waves showing shameful deeds.

 

My Observations:

• GOD sees when I cry out to HIM to make “me” famous instead of making HIM known.
• GOD wants me to turn to HIM and point to HIS SON so I can be used by HIM to bear fruit.
• GOD knows I need to focus on HIM versus focusing on fame so the world’s waves won’t pull me in.

 

Seeking affirmation can cause me problems. I mean, when I feel I need to be more famous, or “liked” by a crowd, I seek being noticed at every turn. This causes me to think only of myself and barely mention GOD. BUT HE has another way.

 

GOD wants my life to bear HIS fruit. My life is HIS and HE can decide how and when HE wants to use the gifts HE gave me. HE wants me ready and willing to be used by HIM, regardless of my fame. HE loves you and me and never leaves when times are tough. I am glad GOD helps us point people to HIM.

 

Challenge

• What comparisons from the writer sticks out the most to you?
• Have you ever gotten mad at GOD for making someone else famous?
• Will you seek to make JESUS famous to those who are around you and be affirmed that HE loves you just the way you are today?

Unstuck on Titles

Unstuck on Titles

3 John 1: ⁹ I wrote a short letter to the church; but Diotrephes, who likes to be their leader, will not pay any attention to what I say. ¹⁰ When I come, then, I will bring up everything he has done: the terrible things he says about us and the lies he tells! But that is not enough for him; he will not receive the Christians when they come, and even stops those who want to receive them and tries to drive them out of the church!

 

¹¹ My dear friend, do not imitate what is bad, but imitate what is good. Whoever does good belongs to God; whoever does what is bad has not seen God.

 

¹² Everyone speaks well of Demetrius; truth itself speaks well of him. And we add our testimony, and you know that what we say is true.

 

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“Do you believe in JESUS?” someone laughingly asked me. “I am the head of the deacons and the chairman of the Trustees” I replied. “Yes, but do you believe in JESUS?” was the follow up question that I could have simply said “Yes” to.

 

• I was seeking a title in church without knowing it.
• I wanted to be known for “my” accomplishments.
• I wanted a resume versus GOD’s kingdom to grow.

 

John addressed church pride. He provided two opposing examples, namely Diotrephes and Demetrius. The first was the example of arrogance while the latter was the example of truth. One liked church titles, power and to be “heard” while the other built a reputation of serving people with the truth.

 

My Observations:

• Having  a title in church is okay as long as I use the title to help organize who does what.
• Recognizing JESUS as the only one who is the head of the church, makes me less prone to desire what should be HIS.
• My motive for serving in church should be based on the truth that JESUS rose from the dead and wants everyone to believe in HIS saving power.

 

Sometimes titles can trip me up. I mean, whether it is corporate or public or church, titles can make me think I am more special than others. If the title gets to my head, then my actions and words begin to leave GOD out and the focus becomes more on “my” title or the brand of the church. BUT GOD wants to be known.

 

HE wants my words to point to HIM constantly. The whole purpose of gathering together in the first place is to recognize JESUS as the Savior while addressing barriers to this belief. We sing, pray and acknowledge JESUS while not turning into the world. I gladly give up titles to be known for speaking GOD’s truth.

 

Challenge

• Who does the writer warn not to imitate?
• Have you ever wanted a title or wanted to be recognized as a public figure?
• Will you point your life to CHRIST whether you have a title or not so HE can draw many people to HIMSELF through you today?

Gifts Used to Escape

Gifts Used to Escape

2 Peter 1: ³ God's divine power has given us everything we need to live a truly religious life through our knowledge of the one who called us to share in his own glory and goodness. ⁴ In this way he has given us the very great and precious gifts he promised, so that by means of these gifts you may escape from the destructive lust that is in the world, and may come to share the divine nature. 

 

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Hearing conversations about expensive houses, cars and luxurious vacations, I decided to spend my time and energy acquiring “the dream.” After climbing the ladder, I reached “the top” only to realize I had been trapped in high pressure, broken relationships and impressing pain on others.

 

• I had talents that I was not using to grow GOD’s kingdom, rather I was put in a position to harm it.
• I had gifts that GOD gave me that I was using for someone else’s gain.
• I ignored GOD and put HIM in a box that I would open for an hour or two each Sunday.

 

Peter goes right into deep theology by saying “GOD has given us everything we need.” His statement suggests, that we already have the ability to live for GOD. It also suggests that we have a choice to live for GOD or to live life in pursuit of the world’s “destructive lust.”

 

My Observations:

• The worst kind of lust is the one that everyone says “this is what you are supposed to pursue.”
• Seeing GOD as the enemy to my pleasure can cause me to use my gifts and talents for my own pursuits.
• GOD has given me everything I need to be successful in HIS eyes, I only have to use what HE gave me for HIS purpose.

 

Images of the world’s success makes me lust over what it has to offer. I mean, seeing movies where the star steps off of his or her own private jet after drinking the most expensive champagne and arriving in a chauffeur driven car to take him or her to a luxury home, makes me say “why don’t I have that?” BUT GOD wants HIS SON to be known and followed.

 

These two thoughts conflict. I stop following GOD to follow human stories of “success.” I mimic celebrities in hopes of being discovered. BUT GOD takes me off the lustful path and places me on a road that is traveled less. HE shows me how important it is to take the Gospel to the world, in hopes that HIS message will not be rejected. I gladly use my gifts for JESUS, who gave them to me in the first place.

 

Challenge

• What “destructive lust” is the writer talking about?
• Have you ever fallen into the trap of “everyone else is doing it?”
• Will you use your GOD given gifts and talents to grow HIS kingdom, instead of growing your own today?

Known For

Known For

Colossians 1: ³ We always give thanks to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you. ⁴ For we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of your love for all God's people.

 

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Being “skinny”, I was not popular like the jocks, so I used humor as my strength. When I went to college, I studied various ways to make people laugh. Some of the popular people on campus labeled me as the “class clown.” I was a sophomore. How did I make anyone’s list?

 

• I was embarrassed.
• I had a reputation that I did not anticipate.
• I worried about being taken seriously.

 

Hearing about the reputation of the Colossians, Paul wrote to them with thankfulness. This faithful group of people served JESUS with vim. Paul was so excited that he prayed for them with thanksgiving, knowing there were others who were excited about CHRIST.

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to give my reputation to HIM.
• GOD wants me to be “known for “ speaking about HIS SON.
• GOD wants me to have faith in CHRIST and love for all HIS people.

 

Being “known for” something is a quest humans struggle with. I mean, famous people rob and steal to obtain and keep a reputation for something. Others train all their lives to set records or have their names on a best seller. BUT GOD simply wants HIS SON known.

 

HE knows our reputations are not good for no human seek HIS ways. JESUS is known for being sinless and for letting HIS creation murder HIM after being slandered. HE is also known for being raised from the dead and for forgiving us for our sins if we believe HE did all of this for us. I gladly give my life to HIM and I don’t mind being “known for” speaking about HIM even though I am flawed.

 

Challenge

• Can you feel tie excitement of the writer?
• What would you like to be known for?
• Will you seek being known for CHRIST so others may get to know HIM through your prayers, faithfulness and love for HIM today?

Bad Fruit

Bad Fruit

Galatians 5: ¹⁹ What human nature does is quite plain. It shows itself in immoral, filthy, and indecent actions; ²⁰ in worship of idols and witchcraft. People become enemies and they fight; they become jealous, angry, and ambitious. They separate into parties and groups; ²¹ they are envious, get drunk, have orgies, and do other things like these. I warn you now as I have before: those who do these things will not possess the Kingdom of God.

 

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Continuing on yesterday’s thought, I remember being excited about going to college where I found “freedom” to do what “everybody” else was doing. When I joined in with the group I liked, I was able to get drunk, have as much sex as I wanted and join in on a few battles with malicious words. I found myself not attending classes, then I was kicked out. The “fun” group was not there to help.

 

• I was on a path to destroying myself and others.
• I cared so much about experiencing pleasure that I was blind to my own actions.
• I wanted to fit in with a group that was trying to use “fun” as a medication to life’s difficulties.

 

Paul provides a list that could be confusing. He lists actions that some would ask “what’s wrong with that?” He is warning people about their “purpose” in life. The list is not about a specific sin, it is about life’s pursuits. His warning is, if people pursue yielding to human nature too long, eventually he or she will not be able to hear GOD.

 

My Observations

• Recognizing that I am blinded by my own desires helps me see GOD.
• Asking GOD to give me strength to ignore the things that are barriers to hearing HIM puts me back on HIS path.
• Knowing that JESUS died for all my sins helps me when I fall.

 

Believing in JESUS enables me to possess the Kingdom of GOD. But what happens if I sin? If I confess my sins HE is faithful and just to forgive me of my sins and cleanse me of all unrighteousness. Getting back to the passage, it is about life’s pursuits that GOD is looking at.

 

HE knows when I am pursuing “my” own kingdom versus HIS. HE let’s be bear bad fruit, thinking my crowd can “support” me through life’s difficulties. HE allows my bad fruit to grow into horrible situations that may have affected many. Fortunately, HE always makes a way back to HIM. I am grateful I can run back to GOD and HE welcomes me with open forgiving arms.

 

Challenge

• Is there any part of the list the writer brings that would concern you?
• Do you find yourself justifying your own actions with a group?
• Will you stop listening to your human nature and confess to GOD that your life may be on a dangerous path and you need HIS help to guide you back to HIM today?

Boasting Limits

Boasting Limits

2 Corinthians 10: ¹² Of course we would not dare classify ourselves or compare ourselves with those who rate themselves so highly. How stupid they are! They make up their own standards to measure themselves by, and they judge themselves by their own standards! ¹³ As for us, however, our boasting will not go beyond certain limits; it will stay within the limits of the work which God has set for us, and this includes our work among you. ¹⁴ And since you are within those limits, we were not going beyond them when we came to you, bringing the Good News about Christ.

 

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After getting the title, I felt pretty good. “I” had accomplished something “great” and other people told me they admired “my” achievements. I was given a large responsibility within the company, awards and a new office. “I” made it!

 

• The more I had the poorer in humility I became.
• The bigger the title the prouder I became within myself without knowing it.
• The higher I climbed the more I relied on my title for self-esteem.

 

Paul implies a warning about comparing oneself to another, especially those who rate themselves highly. He also points to a healthier means of boasting, namely to speak about how great GOD has loved us by giving us JESUS.

 

My Observations

• I should look at myself less and point more to GOD.
• I must thank GOD for the places HE brought me and the things HE has provided.
• I have to choose to limit myself instead of always testing the boundaries of GOD’s love.

 

In the days of pushing the limits, it seems strange to limit myself to anything old and stodgy. I mean, wasn’t the Bible written in times that were less complicated? Yes, but amazingly it applies even more today than when it was written.

 

GOD’s word, namely the Bible, provides a tiny dose of what HE chose to reveal to humans. It is inerrant in every way. Each day it can be read and applied for decision making, correction and growth. The comparison to JESUS knocks out any pride I may have, so I surrender my life to HIM. I am glad HE gave me limits to live my life abundantly.

 

Challenge

• What do you notice about the seemingly harsh words of the writer regarding ”self” standards?
• How do you feel about limits?
• Will you choose to walk within GOD’s limits, staying away from the boundaries so you can live an abundant life speaking about JESUS whenever HE sends you to people HE desires?

Mine

 

Mine

Romans 11: ³³ How great are God's riches! How deep are his wisdom and knowledge! Who can explain his decisions? Who can understand his ways? ³⁴ As the scripture says,

 

“Who knows the mind of the Lord?
    Who is able to give him advice?
³⁵ Who has ever given him anything,
    so that he had to pay it back?”

 

³⁶ For all things were created by him, and all things exist through him and for him. To God be the glory forever! Amen.

 

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Driving my old car, anyone and everyone was allowed in. The seats were full of junk I tossed in the back, so I would ask the unexpected passenger to move the stuff out the way. But then I bought my first “new” car. I had a car note that was exactly the same amount as my rent. I washed it weekly and vowed to keep it clean. I restricted who would ride in “my” car.

 

• There have been many things I have had that I claimed to be “mine.”
• There have been many possessions I have had that I worried about protecting.
• There have been many items that I had that I thought were “mine.”

 

Paul and the other prophets ask great questions about GOD to show how powerful and incredible HE is. HIS riches, wisdom and knowledge is unsurpassed. HIS decisions and ways cannot be explained or understood. No one has given HIM anything especially money or advice.

 

• GOD wants me to know that all things were created by HIM.
• GOD wants me to know that all things exist through HIM.
• GOD wants me to know that all things exist for HIM.

 

Knowing all things were made by HIM and exist through HIM and for HIM is scary. I mean, even though humans make things, they still exist because of GOD. When I use the things humans make I should be using it “for” GOD. While it sounds extreme, it seems true.

 

GOD wants me to use “my” computer to spread HIS word versus searching for porn or ways to become GOD and be in control. HE wants me to use “my” phone to spread the gospel versus sending text messages complaining about “that” person.

 

HE wants me to use “my” food to feed those who are hungry. Many ways I have neglected GOD by thinking I own anything. I am grateful GOD forgives me and accepts any portion of what I acknowledge as HIS.

 

• What are you trying to protect?
• Do you think you “own” anything?
• Will you release your hold on “your” stuff and allow GOD to guide you to HIS peace today?

Daydreaming

 

Daydreaming

Romans 8: ⁵ Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. ⁶ The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace. ⁷ The mind governed by the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so. ⁸ Those who are in the realm of the flesh cannot please God.

 

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Hearing the conversation about cars made me know I was in the wrong league. One guy had just bought a car worth more than my house. After the conversation I was content to drive away in my rusty car. But later, I sat at my desk wondering how I could make more money. Maybe I should day trade or invest. I started dreaming of wealth more and more.

 

• Many times I put my mind on what I desired.
• Many times I sat with my mind fixed on what was in my heart.
• Many times I pondered how “good” life would be if I would just have…

 

Paul explains an enemy that is not the devil rather the mind. Though Satan caused humanity to ultimately fall and desire sin, humans still have a choice. Paul explains that choice. Those who live with their minds fixed on any lust cannot have their minds on things that please GOD.

 

• GOD wants me to seek HIS ways daily.
• GOD wants me to know my weaknesses and give them to HIM.
• GOD wants me to ask HIM to guide my thoughts, for only HE knows my heart.

 

Without GOD, all dreams are worthless. I mean, any dream I have should include what GOD wants, otherwise I will find myself in a losing fight against GOD. If I really want that material thing and do not get it, I pout at GOD and question HIS existence.

 

GOD hates when I back HIM in a corner and question HIS love that HE so generously gave to me. BUT HE is patient enough to guide me back to HIM and to allow me to pray for daily forgiveness. HE sets my mind on HIS people who need HIS SON for HIS salvation. I am grateful GOD intervenes in my mind.

 

• What are you worried about?
• What do you dream about most of the day?
• Will you ask GOD to set your mind on what HE wants rather than trying to get your desires fulfilled today?

Powered By

Powered By

John 21: After these things Jesus showed Himself again to the disciples at the Sea of Tiberias, and in this way He showed Himself: ² Simon Peter, Thomas called the Twin, Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two others of His disciples were together. ³ Simon Peter said to them, “I am going fishing.”

They said to him, “We are going with you also.” They went out and immediately got into the boat, and that night they caught nothing. ⁴ But when the morning had now come, Jesus stood on the shore; yet the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. ⁵ Then Jesus said to them, “Children, have you any food?”

They answered Him, “No.”

⁶ And He said to them, “Cast the net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some.” So they cast, and now they were not able to draw it in because of the multitude of fish.

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Seeing traffic was getting clogged up, I exited the expressway. “Maybe the side streets will get me there faster”, I thought to myself. Stopped at numerous lights, I glanced at the slow, but steady movement on the freeway. They were going faster than I was.

I got to work later than ever. I thought missed my opportunity to meet with the person deciding if I would stay at the company or go.. I arrived just before the person and we met in the hallway. “Good timing” the person said. They invited me to move with the company as a promotion.

• Sometimes I try to fix things on my own power.
• Sometimes I think my power is what gets me places.
• Sometimes I work out plans to get myself out of situations only to make matters worse.

Peter and other disciples decided to go fishing. They were experienced fishermen and tried the same old techniques. JESUS appeared on the shore and told them to try the other side of the boat. They had fished all night. How was this going to work? And Why now? It gained them more fish than ever before.

• JESUS says to me, “Believe in MY power.”
• JESUS says to me, “I see your desire and I want what is best for you.”
• JESUS says to me, “I AM excited to show you MY power daily.”

Giving myself too much credit causes me to worry when it comes to the next problem. I mean, I may think I fixed that last problem, but when something bigger comes along, I feel overwhelmed. GOD wants me to give HIM credit for the little things so I can have faith that HE will take care of the big things. It is not my power but GOD’s that saves me and fixes everything.

• Are you trying to control your life?
• Do you think it was your power or another human’s ability that fixed the situation?
• Will you open your eyes and see GOD touching every situation?
• Will you let go and allow GOD to show HIS power today?

Unfair Trade

Luke 22: Now the Festival of Unleavened Bread, called the Passover, was approaching, ² and the chief priests and the teachers of the law were looking for some way to get rid of Jesus, for they were afraid of the people. ³ Then Satan entered Judas, called Iscariot, one of the Twelve. ⁴ And Judas went to the chief priests and the officers of the temple guard and discussed with them how he might betray Jesus. ⁵ They were delighted and agreed to give him money. ⁶ He consented, and watched for an opportunity to hand Jesus over to them when no crowd was present.

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“Are you with us?” was the question posed to me. The crowd wanted a person fired but needed my title and position to make it happen. After meeting with the person, I gathered enough “evidence” to make the call, although it took a while to find anything really wrong. They had to go, was my final thought. I mean, this person wasn’t going to matter in the long run, right?

• There were times when I traded in my values to do what the crowd wanted me to do.
• There were times when I went with the crowd to protect “my” world.
• There were times when I overlooked the innocent to figure out how to make the rich richer.

The church leaders had enough of JESUS and wanted to have HIM killed but they couldn’t figure out how to do it and keep their “holy” appearance. Judas was open minded enough to have Satan tempt him into betraying JESUS. Judas saw this wonderful amount of money offered and figured this person didn’t matter in the long run.

• GOD says to me “Every person matters to ME.”
• GOD says to me “Do not let your heart be so concerned with getting your way that you allow Satan to drive your desires.”
• GOD says to me “Narrow is the path, but stay on it and I will be your guide.”

One day I will have to stand before GOD and account for everything I have done. Unlike a monetary system, sin outweighs any “good” I could ever do. JESUS did an unfair trade for me. HE gave HIS life in place of mine. HE decided to take my punishment in order to rescue me. I cannot thank JESUS enough for what HE has done.

• Are you justifying being “unfair” to someone?
• Do you think your slander is not seen by GOD?
• Will you turn your heart over to GOD and allow HIM to guide your words today?

Fine Print

Luke 4: ⁵ Then the devil, taking Him up on a high mountain, showed Him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time. ⁶ And the devil said to Him, “All this authority I will give You, and their glory; for this has been delivered to me, and I give it to whomever I wish. ⁷ Therefore, if You will worship before me, all will be Yours.”

⁸ And Jesus answered and said to him, “Get behind Me, Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only you shall serve.’ ”

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“Just hang with me and you will be alright” was the promise from one of the higher ups to me. At dinner, he drank until he could hardly speak and flirted with the wait staff.  As I walked him and others to his suite in the convention hotel and he suggested we do this again tomorrow only this time bring more people so we could really party.

• There were times when I had to decide between career and virtues.
• There were times when I had to decide between money and character.
• There were times when I had to decide between the crowd and the lone trail.

As a human JESUS was relegated to decide between supernatural comforts of life versus an uncomfortable low quality human existence. Greed, power, fame and lust were now possibilities presented to JESUS BUT HE knew that the fine print of the contract would cause all humans to be lost.

• JESUS wants me to decide to follow HIM versus the very tempting roads presented to me.
• JESUS wants me to decide to follow HIM versus the blind road the world presents.
• JESUS wants me to decide to follow HIM versus following the fears of money, the lusts for power, and the desires of constant pleasure.

Some of the temptations sound perfectly fine and logical. I mean who wouldn’t want riches and the ability to satisfy any lust one could imagine? GOD says to me “Control yourself and follow MY lead so you may be protected from the world.”

People may laugh at this choice because it doesn’t look “successful.” BUT GOD loves when I follow HIM and ignore the jeers from those who poke fun at my plain life. Being amazed at GOD daily is more important than people temporarily following me for my five minutes of fame.

• Are you seeking fame and power?
• Do you think you would be better off if you were extremely wealthy?
• Can you stop trying to fix your problems with money and give all your issues to the LORD who knows just what to do with them?

I Want To

Matthew 23: ³³ “You snakes! You brood of vipers! How will you escape being condemned to hell? ³⁴ Therefore I am sending you prophets and sages and teachers. Some of them you will kill and crucify; others you will flog in your synagogues and pursue from town to town. ³⁵ And so upon you will come all the righteous blood that has been shed on earth, from the blood of righteous Abel to the blood of Zechariah son of Berekiah, whom you murdered between the temple and the altar. ³⁶ Truly I tell you, all this will come on this generation.

³⁷ “Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, and you were not willing. ³⁸ Look, your house is left to you desolate. ³⁹ For I tell you, you will not see me again until you say, ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.’”

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Zealous in my position, I sought out those I could fire. I mean if you weren’t pulling your weight I would have a much needed discussion with you. This was a very long way from where I started. At one time I could not stand to see someone fired.

• Positions were important to me at one time.
• Titles were important to me at one time.
• Authority was what I sought after even at the expense of someone’s demise.

JESUS made it very, very clear of HIS plan to condemn HIS enemies to hell. Those who would do anything for power and authority would have the blood of the innocent heaped upon them. From slanderous words to the act of killing, GOD hates those who hate others. HE sees my actions and knows my ambitions.

• JESUS longs for me to desire HIM.
• JESUS often looks for me to seek HIM.
• JESUS wants me to be willing to receive the rescue HE sends me.

Spiritual blindness can be cured by giving a simple answer to this question, “Do you want to be healed?” The answer from me is “I want to.” JESUS gets delighted by that answer and blesses me abundantly!

• Are you ambitious at some else’s detriment?
• Do you believe you are doing the right thing by tearing someone else down?
• Do you want to be healed of your spiritual blindness?
• Will you say to GOD “Blessed is HE who comes in the name of the LORD” today?

Nice Threads

Matthew 23: ²⁷ “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of the bones of the dead and everything unclean. ²⁸ In the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness.

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Adorned with a matching tie, new shoes and socks that went with the suit, I was ready for church. I also had a new, unread Bible. When I arrived, I saw tight skirts and smelled perfume. “I have no idea what was said, but I’m sure I would fit in here” I thought to myself. “I mean I look pretty good too!”

• Why did I gather when my heart was filled with lust?
• Why did I attend church when I wanted to be in a club?
• Why did I look at GOD’s children as something I could eventually mistreat as common.

My attitude towards church was that it was a gathering made for me. If I did not like the message or the way people were dressed, I would eventually leave and try again. I found a place where I could hear about GOD and lust at the same time! What a deal! BUT GOD wanted different.

• GOD wanted me to care more about my insides than out.
• GOD wanted me to go to church caring about people not staring at them.
• GOD wanted me to seek to be cleansed from the inside.

Dead and unclean were the words JESUS used to describe the Sadducees and Pharisees. They would bring business deals, lust for power and lust for humans into the church while wearing nice garments and proud smiles. Respected in the community, they pranced before men.

GOD wants me to act different. HE wants me to go to church, ready to confess at the drop of a hat. HE wants my insides to become clean more than the outside.

• Do you pay a lot of attention to clothes?
• Are you trying to dress to please people?
• Can you stop trying to please others and let GOD clean your insides?

Becoming Powerful

Daniel 8: ²³ “In the latter part of their reign, when rebels have become completely wicked, a fierce-looking king, a master of intrigue, will arise. ²⁴ He will become very strong, but not by his own power. He will cause astounding devastation and will succeed in whatever he does. He will destroy those who are mighty, the holy people. ²⁵ He will cause deceit to prosper, and he will consider himself superior. When they feel secure, he will destroy many and take his stand against the Prince of princes. Yet he will be destroyed, but not by human power.

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“You should be in charge” someone said to me. I had never thought about it, but soon grew fond of the idea. I took several leadership classes and took their words to heart. Soon I became one of the leaders and quickly learned it was a daily combat amongst my peers. Budget battles, location of my department and benefits were a constant struggle I had never considered.

• At one time I thought it would be great to be in “power.”
• At one time I really wanted to “win” each battle.
• At one time I desired to be “successful” amongst my peers.

The higher up I went the more I realized someone had to die in order for me to keep climbing. If they were in the only spot at the top then me and others would have to get out our arrows and shoot at that person until they died or retreated. This is very similar to the blinded thinking of the Anti-Christ. His success will blind the masses and television will talk about him daily. BUT GOD says something different.

• GOD says to me “No weapon formed against you will prosper for I am the one who protects you.”
• GOD says to me “I AM the way the truth and the life, no one gets to the FATHER except they come through ME.”
• GOD says to me “There is no power in heaven and earth that can withstand ME.”

After a season of victories, the Anti-Christ will be broken and destroyed. GOD will then turn to me and ask me “Have you remained in ME or did you follow the crowd?” Shamefully I would have to say I followed the crowd. Fortunately for me, HE asks this question today and gives me another chance to follow HIM rather than my own power hungry way. GOD wants me to see that HE is the only way!

• Are you seeking power?
• Do you associate yourself with a rising person who is growing in power and feel better about yourself?
• Can you associate yourself with the one who is truly in power?
• Will you give up your life and trade it in for HIS? 

Compassion in Anger

Ezekiel 6: ⁷ Your people will fall slain among you, and you will know that I am the Lord.

⁸ “‘But I will spare some, for some of you will escape the sword when you are scattered among the lands and nations.’”

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GOD spared a remnant when HE was highly upset at HIS people. I mean at one point HE wanted to wipe HIS humans off the face of the earth. Their claims that HE does not exist or that HIS efforts are futile angered HIM but not so much. It was the things they built with their own hands and worshipped that fueled the most anger in GOD. Not only had GOD been pushed out the picture, HIS people made idols to replace HIM.

• GOD wants me to be creative, yet give HIM the credit for my talents.
• GOD wants me to be innovative, yet praise HIM for my imagination.
• GOD wants me to be inspirational as long as I am inspiring others to follow HIM.

In the middle of GOD’s anger HE decided to show some compassion. HE allowed a few people to escape HIS wrath. HE expected them to tell the story of the difficult times so people would turn their blinded eyes back to HIM. I have no idea how HE chooses who would escape, but I am glad HE does. GOD chose me to escape HIS wrath and I have been grateful since!

• Are you building something that you worship?
• Do you fight to get heard and recognized?
• Will you step out of the limelight and allow GOD to be center-stage?
• Will you tell people about HIS story?

Cure for Jealousy

Psalm 37: ¹ Do not fret because of those who are evil
    or be envious of those who do wrong;
² for like the grass they will soon wither,
    like green plants they will soon die away.

³ Trust in the Lord and do good;
    dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture.
⁴ Take delight in the Lord,
    and he will give you the desires of your heart.

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It was easy to stay away from the thugs of my day. Petty crime and thievery was about the worst that it would get. Then I saw a new wave of thug emerge with flashy cars and clothes to match. They said “You have to be tough and take no prisoners if you want to be like me.” It was still easy for me to avoid them but others flocked towards their glitter.

I went my way, worked hard and met some wonderful corporate minded people along the way. They said “You have to be tough and take no prisoners if you want to be like me.” Wait, didn’t I hear that somewhere before? It must have been my imagination. I was envious of the corporate mogul.

• No matter where I am I can get envious.
• No matter how little or how much I have, I can get jealous.
• No matter what the cost, I can get green-eyed.

It seemed like the “tough” and the “arrogant” and the “mean spirited” people would get their way most often, meanwhile I was left to fend on my own, working hard for little reward. I mean why do they get all the rewards and I have to do all the work? BUT GOD hears and knows.

• GOD says to me “Trust in ME and do good and you will dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture.”
• GOD says to me “Take delight in ME and I will give you the desires of your heart.”
• GOD says to me “Be still before ME and wait patiently for ME; do not fret when people succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes.”

Success of those who harm others is short lived. Yes it seems like they have the bigger bank accounts, bank rolls or Benz’s BUT GOD says I want you to follow ME on MY path, not theirs. GOD’s path means my eyes are open to those who hurt and are in pain. It means telling someone they are forgiven, no matter what sin they have committed. GOD says “MY way is the right way and I will bless you for following ME.”

• Are you jealous?
• Do you have envy of those who do wrong?
• Are you secretly looking over what they do so you can be like them?
• Can you turn your heart to GOD?
• Will you stop being envious of them and delight in following GOD?