Exhilaration!

Exhilaration!

Revelation 7: ⁹ After this I looked, and there was an enormous crowd—no one could count all the people! They were from every race, tribe, nation, and language, and they stood in front of the throne and of the Lamb, dressed in white robes and holding palm branches in their hands. ¹⁰ They called out in a loud voice: “Salvation comes from our God, who sits on the throne, and from the Lamb!” ¹¹ All the angels stood around the throne, the elders, and the four living creatures. Then they threw themselves face downward in front of the throne and worshiped God, ¹² saying, “Amen! Praise, glory, wisdom, thanksgiving, honor, power, and might belong to our God forever and ever! Amen!”

 

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Having only been to local carnivals, I was excited to go to one of the more famous amusement parks. I had never been at this park so I did not know what to expect. At a certain time, everyone stopped as a parade went through the crowd. There was singing, laughter and smiles!

 

• For a moment, I was excited!
• It seemed like everyone was excited with me.
• People from every race cheered and celebrated for a small moment.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, is shown the throne of GOD one more time. This time he sees “an enormous crowd—no one could count all the people!” Everyone gathered to worship GOD voluntarily and without holding back!

 

My Observations:

• GOD’s love allows me to choose HIM or not.
• When I choose GOD’s love, I am never be disappointed.
• I look forward to every race, tribe, nation and language celebrating together without holding back.

 

Celebrations are fun! I mean, when I celebrate, I forget all about the cares and worries I carry. But one day there will be no worries, only celebration!.

 

GOD wants us to be with HIM voluntarily. This provides a way to celebrate with choice. A number of people that cannot be counted will be celebrating. I cannot wait!

 

Challenge

• Can you see the excitement from the writer?
• Have you ever been part of a celebration?
• Will you give your life to GOD so you can me part of a family that is so vast that it cannot be counted?

Unfiltered Worship

Unfiltered Worship

Revelation 4: ⁹ The four living creatures sing songs of glory and honor and thanks to the one who sits on the throne, who lives forever and ever. When they do so, ¹⁰ the twenty-four elders fall down before the one who sits on the throne, and worship him who lives forever and ever. They throw their crowns down in front of the throne and say,

 

¹¹ “Our Lord and God! You are worthy
    to receive glory, honor, and power.
For you created all things,
    and by your will they were given existence and life.”

 

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“Who are those people gathered in the field?” I asked one of the leaders on the missions trip. “They are people who worship GOD” was the response. They were all wearing white and did not have a building, seats or instruments. Later, we sat in a church. Many people, who had nothing, gathered to sing praise songs. They sang for hours!

 

• I looked at my watch to see when they would be done.
• I enjoyed the singing, but wanted it to be done so we could get on with it!
• I realized, after a while, that I was not really worshipping from my heart, but out of habit.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, hears wonderful songs about JESUS. These songs contained glory, honor and thanks for HIM causing the people who were very important to throw their crowns at HIS feet. They rejoiced and praised HIM for HIS power!

 

My Observations:

• JESUS Is worthy to be praised!
• Sometimes I want to hold back because I want to appear a certain way before humans.
• One day my worship will not be filtered with sin, problems or troubles!

 

Unfiltered worship can only take place in heaven. I mean, when all sin, worries and human structures are torn down, we can celebrate what JESUS has done! All problems will be solved and celebration will happen on a grand scale that lasts forever.

 

Will people get tired of praising JESUS? No! Our sinful minds cannot fathom true worship that lasts forever. We look at our watches and think of boredom if worship lasts longer than three songs. One day my worship for GOD will come out of sheer elation! I will not be embarrassed but filled with joy!

 

Challenge

• How does the writer describe worship?
• Have you ever got so excited about something that you just wanted to shout with joy?
• Will you look beyond problems and praise GOD for what HE has done and is doing and will do in your life?

Glad For a Reason

Glad For a Reason

James 1: ⁹ Those Christians who are poor must be glad when God lifts them up, ¹⁰ and the rich Christians must be glad when God brings them down. For the rich will pass away like the flower of a wild plant. ¹¹ The sun rises with its blazing heat and burns the plant; its flower falls off, and its beauty is destroyed. In the same way the rich will be destroyed while they go about their business.

 

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When I got my first job out of college, I was glad. I rejoiced because now I could pay for the bills I had accumulated. After a number of  job changes and promotions, I had was not satisfied with the level of wealth.

 

• I felt I needed more and I thought of reasons why.
• I looked at what other people were making and felt I “deserved” more.
• After a while I had no praise for what GOD was doing in my life, only complaints about other people.

 

James addressed wealth status. Some people may have mourned their status because they were too poor to do anything. Others may have flaunted their status because their businesses were flourishing. The stern warning to the rich is they could be destroyed trying to maintain their status.

 

My Observations:

• GOD warns us about becoming too wealthy to hear the needs of other people.
• GOD is the one who raises up people to where HE needs them to be.
• GOD tears people down to keep them away from the dangers of wealth.

 

Balance is the pursuit that is difficult. I mean, being too poor makes me cry out to GOD for rescue. On the other hand, being too rich, blinds me to the needs of others, causing me to dream up ways to keep or grow the amounts “I” have amassed. BUT GOD helps with balance.

 

GOD raises people up from poverty to help them see that HE is the answer. HE also sometimes tears the right people down so he or she will not get too prideful. GOD deserves all the praise and honor for what I have. I gladly say GOD is my provider.

 

Challenge

• What is the balance the writer is trying to get to?
• Have you ever gotten some money and stopped praying to GOD?
• Will you recognize your limits and keep praising HIM whether you have only a little or when you have plenty?

 

Thanks for the Appointment

Thanks for the Appointment

1 Timothy 1: ¹² I give thanks to Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength for my work. I thank him for considering me worthy and appointing me to serve him, ¹³ even though in the past I spoke evil of him and persecuted and insulted him. But God was merciful to me because I did not yet have faith and so did not know what I was doing. 

 

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Standing by the fence, I waited to be left out of the recess activity. One of the team captain’s chose me early, to my surprise. “Why me?” I thought to myself. I had no athletic ability. When it was my turn, the ball was rolled and I kicked it over the pitcher’s head! I made it on base and my team cheered! I didn’t know I had it in me.

 

• I doubted “my” ability.
• I would not have chosen me, so I would not expect anyone else to.
• I had nothing to offer, or so I thought.

 

Paul starts praising GOD in the middle of his letter to Timothy. He confessed that he persecuted the church and insulted JESUS by doing so. Yet JESUS, appointed Paul to serve HIM. Paul did not know he had it in him.

 

My Observations

• My doubts about myself do not change GOD’s mind about HIS appointment for me.
• GOD sees me different than I see myself.
• GOD has a special plan and an appointment made just for me.

 

“Who me?” Yes you! But what about “this sin” or “that sin?” you mas ask. GOD saw your sin and mine and still appoints us to HIS calling. HE is the one who provides strength to do HIS work through you and me. HE sees flaws and uses each one to grow a strong kingdom.

 

But there is one thing I must do first, namely confess. I am not worthy of serving the LORD and I have messed up over and over again. But that was before GOD gave me faith that HE has it under control I am HIS and HE is my GOD. I gladly accept HIS appointment for me with full gratitude!.

 

Challenge

• What is the writer thanking GOD for?
• Have you ever doubted your abilities, yet GOD chose you to do something anyway?
• Will you praise GOD for HIS appointment HE has for you to do a marvelous work in you and through you today?

 

Praise

Dear LORD, thank YOU for the appointment YOU have on my life and this reader’s life. Thank YOU for YOUR strength, not ours. Thank YOU for considering us worthy for such an important appointment LORD. We honor YOU, in JESUS name . amen

Instead

Instead

Ephesians 4: ²⁹ Do not use harmful words, but only helpful words, the kind that build up and provide what is needed, so that what you say will do good to those who hear you. ³⁰ And do not make God's Holy Spirit sad; for the Spirit is God's mark of ownership on you, a guarantee that the Day will come when God will set you free. ³¹ Get rid of all bitterness, passion, and anger. No more shouting or insults, no more hateful feelings of any sort. ³² Instead, be kind and tender-hearted to one another, and forgive one another, as God has forgiven you through Christ.

 

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Nervous to use “bad words”, I kept my conversation to a minimum. Unfortunately this particular day was my turn to be picked on by thugs and by some, who I thought were my friends. I blurted out some curse words I had heard over the years. Laughter came from all over. “You don’t even know how to curse!” someone said.

 

• I was embarrassed so I practiced harmful words to keep them available, just in case.
• I wanted to fit in and rationalized that no words were really “bad” words, they were just words.
• I wanted to “vent” and to tell these people off so they would leave me alone!

 

Paul had a huge task in front of him. He was addressing verbal fights and numerous arguments. This divisiveness led to passive and overt attacks on one another that was used to tear people down. GOD gave another path through Paul’s writing.

 

My Observations

• Instead of my first reaction to combative situations, I have to quiet down and listen to GOD.
• Instead of festering over what is making me angry, I need to seek GOD’s peace.
• Instead of becoming bitter, lustful or enraged, I must first find another way, namely ask the HOLY SPIRIT for help.

 

“Do not make GOD’s HOLY SPIRIT sad” are strange words that stick out to me. I mean, all powerful GOD can be hurt by my words and choices? Apparently HE can. My guess is HE knows how harmful my words and actions can really be to others and to myself. HE also knows the consequences of my choices and how detrimental they will be later in life or eternity.

 

GOD wants me to “be” forgiven and “feel” forgiven. HE forgives me forever, but when I sin or want to hurt people because of a bitter heart, I do not “feel” forgiven which causes me to spiral into harmful ways. GOD wants me to be built up so HE gives me to opportunity to use “helpful words” to build others up to serve HIM. I am glad HE forgives me and you.

 

Challenge.

• What is the overall plea of the writer?
• How would you like to be treated by others?
• Will you take GOD’s advice and please the HOLY SPIRIT by being “kind”, “tender hearted” and “forgiving” to one another today?

Predetermined Love

Predetermined Love

Ephesians 1: Because of his love ⁵ God had already decided that through Jesus Christ he would make us his children—this was his pleasure and purpose. ⁶ Let us praise God for his glorious grace, for the free gift he gave us in his dear Son! ⁷ For by the blood of Christ we are set free, that is, our sins are forgiven. How great is the grace of God, ⁸ which he gave to us in such large measure!

 

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Living in an unforgiving world is sometimes difficult. My mistakes are placed in front of me and I place their mistakes in front of them. Mistakes were made all over. This sometimes makes me question if I am truly forgiven.

 

• I sometimes doubt GOD’s love so I try to control my actions to prevent more trials.
• I sometimes think my actions are greater than GOD’s, so I attempt to do “right” so HE will answer my prayers favorably.
• I sometimes question GOD’s love when I and others are met with trouble.

 

Paul is given some powerful words by GOD. He explains that it was GOD who decided to accept HIS SON’s proposal to save all of humanity. JESUS voluntarily stepped up and gave HIS life for all who would accept HIS gift. GOD decided this would serve HIS purpose of loving redemption, well. HE lost everything to save us.

 

My Observations

• It was not my actions that made GOD love me, rather HE loved me first.
• GOD saw all my sins and decided to save me anyway.
• My entire existence needs to praise GOD because of the incredible amount of grace HE has shown me.

 

It is impossible for me to mess up when I was chosen before I was born. I mean, GOD decided HE would make it easy for me to have a loving relationship with HIM by giving me a gift that is accessible to everyone. Unfortunately there is a war inside me and everyone, that fights against this precious gift.

 

Satan tainted all of humanity, causing each and every one of us to desire to be GOD. Our sin nature wants to be in “control” versus accepting the love GOD has poured out in large measure. BUT GOD did something extra. When I surrendered my life to JESUS, HE gave me the HOLY SPIRIT to fight that battle for me. I am eternally grateful for GOD’s great grace!

 

Challenge

• What actions do you see in this passage of scripture and who did them?
• Do you believe that all your sins are forgiven or just the ones you stopped doing?
• Have you ever felt that GOD is judging you versus loving you?
• Will you stop believing the lie about GOD’s love for you and believe HE loves you dearly and has given you a gift you can freely accept, namely JESUS who died for you and is alive today?

You ARE Special!

You ARE Special!

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

My Observations

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

 

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

 

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

 

Challenge

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

Blossomed

Blossomed

Romans 16: ²⁵ Let us give glory to God! He is able to make you stand firm in your faith, according to the Good News I preach about Jesus Christ and according to the revelation of the secret truth which was hidden for long ages in the past. ²⁶ Now, however, that truth has been brought out into the open through the writings of the prophets; and by the command of the eternal God it is made known to all nations, so that all may believe and obey.

 

²⁷ To the only God, who alone is all-wise, be glory through Jesus Christ forever! Amen.

 

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Clearing weeds was a chore, but it was finished. After planting many seeds, I eagerly awaited the fruits of “my” labor. I watered the dirt where the seeds were buried regularly. I stared and stared. Nothing. After a few days, I stopped looking. Nothing was happening so I stopped watering. I moved on to other “fun” filled activities. Weeks later, the plants had grown wildly.

 

• There have been times when I gave up on a promise I was supposed to maintain.
• There have been times when I wanted to see something immediate and could not wait for the fruit.
• There have been times when I stopped trying and the fruit came up anyway.

 

Paul and Tertius complete the letter with praise to GOD. They acknowledge that it is GOD who is able to make people stand firm in faith. What was once planted by the prophets has grown into an immovable tree which is the truth of JESUS. The all-wise GOD has revealed HIS secret truth so all may believe and obey.

 

• GOD wants me to praise HIM even when I have abandoned my faith.
• GOD wants me to know HE is the one who is faithful and is able to make me stand firm in my faith.
• GOD wants me to make HIS message known to all nations so they may believe and obey.

 

Seeds are given to me to plant in someone else’s heart. Someone else comes along to water those seeds. BUT GOD is the only one who can grow the seed into HIS purpose. The seed is JESUS. The growth is the HOLY SPIRIT working inside me. The fruit grows to reach the FATHER. I am grateful GOD is in control of faith.

 

• Do you feel you do not have enough faith?
• Do you need GOD to intervene and you are not seeing what HE is doing?
• Will you praise GOD for sustaining you and your faith so HE will help you bear HIS fruit today?

Interpreter

 Interpreter

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

Amazing Praise

Amazing Praise

Acts 16: ²² The crowd joined in the attack against Paul and Silas, and the magistrates ordered them to be stripped and beaten with rods. ²³ After they had been severely flogged, they were thrown into prison, and the jailer was commanded to guard them carefully. ²⁴ When he received these orders, he put them in the inner cell and fastened their feet in the stocks.

²⁵ About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. ²⁶ Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everyone’s chains came loose. ²⁷ The jailer woke up, and when he saw the prison doors open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself because he thought the prisoners had escaped. ²⁸ But Paul shouted, “Don’t harm yourself! We are all here!”

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Worried about the situation, I missed many hours of sleep. What would the future bring? Would the problem come up again? Would the people who caused the problem get away with their hatred? All of these questions popped in my mind and I could not answer one of them.

• There were times when I got worried.
• There were times when people caused problems for me.
• There were times when the situation seemed like there was no way out.

Paul and Silas received a horrible beating for speaking about JESUS. After being jailed, they began to sing praises to GOD. This comforted the prisoners around them. Paul and Silas had no idea what would come next. GOD shook the jail with an earthquake and opened all the doors and their chains. Their praise enabled them to desire no harm to come to the jailer.

• GOD loves when I use praise instead of worry.
• GOD loves when I use praise as a weapon against fear, doubt and worry.
• GOD loves when I use praise in situations that seem hopeless to me.

Praise has some amazing effects that I do not understand. I mean it seems like “I” should have all the solutions or should rely on other humans to provide answers. GOD loves when I simply praise HIM without expectations. This shows HIM that I know HE has the situation under control.

When I am scared, worried, angry, frustrated, blamed or persecuted, the HOLY SPIRIT enables me to praise GOD. I am grateful GOD provides relief through praise.

• Are you going through something?
• Is someone harming you because of your relationship with JESUS?
• Will you sing praises to GOD without expectations, knowing HE went though persecution just like you?

Tiny Living Space

Tiny Living Space

Acts 7: ⁴⁴ “Our fathers had the tabernacle of witness in the wilderness, as He appointed, instructing Moses to make it according to the pattern that he had seen, ⁴⁵ which our fathers, having received it in turn, also brought with Joshua into the land possessed by the Gentiles, whom God drove out before the face of our fathers until the days of David, ⁴⁶ who found favor before God and asked to find a dwelling for the God of Jacob. ⁴⁷ But Solomon built Him a house.

⁴⁸ “However, the Most High does not dwell in temples made with hands, as the prophet says:

⁴⁹ ‘Heaven is My throne,
And earth is My footstool.
What house will you build for Me? says the Lord,
Or what is the place of My rest?

⁵⁰ Has My hand not made all these things?’

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Moving out of the bunk bed room into the dorm seemed incredible. I mean there was so much space! Two beds and two desks could fit into the room comfortably. And I had my own closet. Years later I returned to the dorm room and thought “How did I ever fit in that tiny room?”

There were some places I lived in that seemed small.

There have been some places I lived in that only a few people could fit.

There were some places I lived in that could only fit me and my stuff.

Stephen continues explaining the Israelite history. He talked about the tents in the wilderness and then spoke of David’s desire to build a house for GOD since GOD had done so much for him. But Solomon was the one who build a temple for GOD, even though GOD could not be confined only to a place made by humans.

JESUS sent the HOLY SPIRIT to live in my heart when I believed in the need for salvation.

JESUS placed the COMFORTER in my heart to help me through difficult times.

JESUS offered the SPIRIT of counsel, truth and wisdom to help me make decisions.

Accepting JESUS as my Savior enabled GOD to live inside of me through the HOLY SPIRIT. HE dwells in me and I in HIM. But when my heart is small and I think only of myself, the living space is really cramped for the HOLY SPIRIT.

GOD wants to stretch HIS living space by having me think of others. Serving others for the sake of GOD stretches my heart, making it bigger and bigger. Soon, many people can fit inside so I can pray for them, even when they wrong me. I am grateful GOD chose to live in me and hope I can give HIM more living space each day.

Do you think about yourself or your entertainment or your health a lot?

Are you concerned about you and a few other people?

Will you allow GOD to stretch your heart so you will desire more people to have a saving relationship with JESUS?

Great Report

Great Report

Acts 4: ²³ And being let go, they went to their own companions and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said to them. ²⁴ So when they heard that, they raised their voice to God with one accord and said: “Lord, You are God, who made heaven and earth and the sea, and all that is in them, ²⁵ who by the mouth of Your servant David have said:

‘Why did the nations rage,
And the people plot vain things?
²⁶ The kings of the earth took their stand,
And the rulers were gathered together
Against the Lord and against His Christ.’

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Excited that I got a good grade in a class, I ran back to tell everyone! I ran up the steps to my floor and ran down the hall. Not watching my footing, I slipped and fell hard with my arm extended as if I were going to catch a ball. Nothing was broken, I had to wear a sling for a few weeks. When people asked me what happened, I told them about my good grade!

• When something good happens I want to tell everyone.
• When something good happens I want to shout about it.
• When something good happens I want to raise my voice no matter who is around.

Great things were happening to the growing group who followed JESUS. Peter and John came back from being threatened by the church leaders and told the crowd what happened. When everyone heard, they screamed and shouted with praise!

• GOD wants me to mention the great things HE has done in my life.
• GOD wants me to be excited about what HE is doing right now in my life.
• GOD wants me to focus on what HE is doing so I can give a great report to someone who needs to hear it.

GOD spoke through David saying “Why did the rulers of the earth stand against our LORD?” I mean even death could not hold HIM. This is great news to share with those who can hear it. GOD wants me to mention salvation in the face of death and destruction.

Mentioning a great report uplifts those who are down. Unfortunately many conversations are not about JESUS or HIS salvation. Each negative word mentioned is a step further away from HIM. Soon the speaker cannot hear or even mention HIS true name. BUT GOD is the remedy. HE provides a way back to HIM by HIS grace. I am grateful HE accepts me back. HE is great!

• What words are you prominently speaking?
• Do you speak great news or negative news in difficult times?
• Will you turn to GOD and allow HIM to fill you with great news that is overflowing from your heart so you cannot help but to tell everyone today?

Something to shout about

Luke 24: ⁵⁰ When he had led them out to the vicinity of Bethany, he lifted up his hands and blessed them. ⁵¹ While he was blessing them, he left them and was taken up into heaven. ⁵² Then they worshipped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy. ⁵³ And they stayed continually at the temple, praising God.

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Not knowing what to expect, I sat and listened to the preacher speak. He invited people to accept CHRIST as their savior. When I looked up after we had finished praying, a large number of people were standing up front professing JESUS as their GOD and Savior. I was amazed!

• JESUS is something to shout about.
• JESUS is the ONE who saves.
• JESUS is the only salvation.

Before JESUS ascended to heaven, HE blessed those who were around HIM. HE gave them power to overcome the world and to speak about HIM as the only salvation. They worshipped HIM with great joy!

• GOD fills me up on a daily basis.
• GOD gives me incredible joy in the middle of the storm.
• GOD is the one with incredible power in the middle of my weakness.

I have seen many miracles on a daily basis that people would classify as mundane. GOD’s power baffles the world and confuses those who fail to believe. HIS power does not include doubt or fear. I am glad HE understands when I have both. HIS power is made perfect in my weakness. I praise GOD for the miracles HE has performed!

• Do you really believe that GOD can heal you?
• Do you think GOD needs help?
• Will you tell GOD about your weaknesses and allow HIM to grow you to where HE wants you to be grown today?

Heartburn

Luke 24: ²⁸ As they approached the village to which they were going, Jesus continued on as if he were going further. ²⁹ But they urged him strongly, ‘Stay with us, for it is nearly evening; the day is almost over.’ So he went in to stay with them.

³⁰ When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. ³¹ Then their eyes were opened and they recognised him, and he disappeared from their sight. ³² They asked each other, ‘Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?’

³³ They got up and returned at once to Jerusalem. There they found the Eleven and those with them, assembled together ³⁴ and saying, ‘It is true! The Lord has risen and has appeared to Simon.’ ³⁵ Then the two told what had happened on the way, and how Jesus was recognised by them when he broke the bread.

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After hearing the speaker, I was moved to go on a missions trip. Everything inside of me said “Go.” I had never felt that way. It was all I could think about. My fear of being in another country reared its ugly head, but somehow it was superseded by a burning desire to spread the Great News of JESUS CHRIST.

• When GOD speaks to me, I can feel it inside.
• When GOD speaks to me, I can only think about HIM.
• When GOD speaks to me, I can see situations more clearly.

JESUS spoke to the two men with authority. Their hears burned from hearing the passionate words directly from CHRIST. HE disappeared when they recognized HIM, BUT HE had already lit an unquenchable fire in their souls. They went to tell the other disciples.

• GOD wants me to have fire for HIM.
• GOD wants me to preach HIS word no matter how difficult the situation may be.
• GOD wants me to not get weary, but to seek HIS kingdom and ask for a tiny bit of HIS grace.

“MY grace is sufficient for you, for MY power is made perfect in weakness” are the words GOD uttered to me this morning. These words burn inside of me as I get removed from using my power to “fix” situations. GOD’s word burns and the flames incinerate any kind of problem I could ever face. I place my total trust in GOD.

• Is GOD burning your heart?
• Do you feel led by GOD and HIS words are all you can think about?
• Will you allow HIS passion to lead you to a place of grace and power today?

Known For

Luke 23: ²⁶ As the soldiers led him away, they seized Simon from Cyrene, who was on his way in from the country, and put the cross on him and made him carry it behind Jesus.

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Rounding first base I advanced to second base. But on my way I tripped and skinned my knee, tearing a hole in my pants. It was kick-baseball so I made it to the base but the pants exposed a bleeding scraped leg. After gym class it was time for our homeroom to go and take pictures. I was chosen to sit in the front row. My bloody knee was immortalized on film forever.

• There are some things I did not want to be known for.
• There are memories that I did not want to keep remembering.
• There are some moments that I wish I wasn’t labeled with.

Simon from Cyrene happened to be at the wrong place at the right time, or was it wrong? He became famous for helping carry JESUS’s cross. While the guards were trying to bully the people, they did not know this simple act would forever label Simon as a helper of JESUS.

• GOD gives me small things to do so HE can be excited forever.
• GOD enables me to serve so HE will give me rewards in heaven.
• GOD wants my focus on HIM so “my” legacy will point towards HIM.

“What will you be known for?” was a question posed to me. After thinking for a while I could not think of anything I cared about that I wanted people talking about after my death. BUT GOD intervened and said “How about ME?” Then it hit me.

Perhaps if I pointed my life to GOD then people would talk about HIM rather than trying to remember me. Bringing people to truly serve GOD is what I want to be known for so GOD will be excited.

• Are you trying to be known?
• Are you seeking fame?
• Will you point your life to GOD and allow HIM to draw people to HIM through you?

Weeping and Rejoicing

Luke 19: ⁴¹ As he approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over it ⁴² and said, ‘If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace – but now it is hidden from your eyes. ⁴³ The days will come upon you when your enemies will build an embankment against you and encircle you and hem you in on every side. ⁴⁴ They will dash you to the ground, you and the children within your walls. They will not leave one stone on another, because you did not recognise the time of God’s coming to you.’

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Complaining about the boss was finally a good idea. I mean the popular few were doing it and I wanted to be popular. While the rest of the group did not feel the same, I joined in on the complaints. When the person left, I joined in with the popular few who rejoiced. The new boss was far worse for everyone. I recognized what the old boss provided, but it was too late.

• Sometimes I am blinded by my complaints.
• Sometimes I am distracted by what “I” think is better.
• Sometimes I am think my sin is “small” and GOD won’t mind.

“JESUS wept” sums up this passage. HE knew free will would be costly for Jerusalem. Political and church leaders would choose following human power, rather than following the ways and words of JESUS. This would be their fall and JESUS knew the fall would be eternal unless they changed their ways.

• GOD says to me, “Recognize the good times that you may label as bad.”
• GOD says to me, “Stop your murmuring and complaining and follow ME.”
• GOD says to me, “Listen to MY words today while you have a chance.”

Looking back on the number of complaints I say per day, I realize I can probably fill up a volcano with these negative words. BUT GOD wants me to seek HIM and rid myself of this negativity. HE wants me to see through the gunk of life and praise HIM for each day.

Only HE can give me the ability to praise HIM. I mean there are some days when a lot rushes towards me and I am overwhelmed. GOD takes me by the hand and leads me besides still waters where only HE can restore my soul. HE is my peace.

• Are you blinded by your complaints?
• Do you blame GOD or praise HIM regularly?
• Will you take a moment to praise GOD today for dying for your sins and the sins of the world?

Can’t Stop the River

Luke 19: ³⁷ When he came near the place where the road goes down the Mount of Olives, the whole crowd of disciples began joyfully to praise God in loud voices for all the miracles they had seen:

³⁸ ‘Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!

‘Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!’

³⁹ Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to Jesus, ‘Teacher, rebuke your disciples!’

⁴⁰ ‘I tell you,’ he replied, ‘if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out.’

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Water was everywhere and all I could do was wait for the final drops to come in. A neighbor built his own pool. While this was a huge accomplishment in the neighborhood I grew up in, some things should probably be left to the pros. When the pool broke, it seemed like every drop went into our basement. I could not stop the torrent.

• There are some things I cannot stop.
• There are some things I cannot prevent.
• There are some things that I cannot hold back.

As JESUS approached the city, huge crowds proclaimed JESUS as the one who was prophesied about for thousands of years. This is the “King who comes in the name of the LORD” they shouted. The church leaders could not stand for this to happen so they tried to stop the crowd from proclaiming HIS name.

• JESUS says to me “If humans do not proclaim MY name then the rocks will.”
• JESUS says to me “Shout MY name and I will remember yours.”
• JESUS says to me “Do not be ashamed of MY name and I will not be ashamed of yours.”

Nothing can stop the power of GOD. People have tried to silence those who proclaim JESUS as LORD for years. BUT GOD’s power is too great. If one person is stopped, then three others will pop up proclaiming GOD as their savior. GOD’s power is like a mighty river that cannot be stopped. I will flow on GOD’s river.

• Are you trying to stop GOD?
• Do you think your power is greater than HIS?
• Will you allow HIM to work HIS amazing plan in your life and others instead of trying to steer things in the way “you” think they should go?

Jealousy Control

Luke 15: ²⁵ “Now his older son was in the field. And as he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing. ²⁶ So he called one of the servants and asked what these things meant. ²⁷ And he said to him, ‘Your brother has come, and because he has received him safe and sound, your father has killed the fatted calf.’

²⁸ “But he was angry and would not go in. Therefore his father came out and pleaded with him. ²⁹ So he answered and said to his father, ‘Lo, these many years I have been serving you; I never transgressed your commandment at any time; and yet you never gave me a young goat, that I might make merry with my friends. ³⁰ But as soon as this son of yours came, who has devoured your livelihood with harlots, you killed the fatted calf for him.’

³¹ “And he said to him, ‘Son, you are always with me, and all that I have is yours. ³² It was right that we should make merry and be glad, for your brother was dead and is alive again, and was lost and is found.’ ”

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Listening with anticipation I waited to hear who won the top employee award. When they announced this other person, I immediately got upset. I mean this person didn’t do half as much as I did and he constantly asked me questions. This day of celebration was over for me.

• There were times when I was jealous instead of celebratory.
• There were times when I was not happy for “that” person because I was envious.
• There were times when I felt I “deserved” better than “that” person.

JESUS speaks about the dedicated brother who “followed all commandments” and did everything right, yet felt slighted when his father threw a party for the one who wasted money. The father’s perspective was interesting. He gets a party but “All I have is yours.”

• GOD says to me “Do not want for anything.”
• GOD says to me “I AM with you always.”
• GOD says to me “I have rewards for you that you cannot see right now, but have patience.”

“Why does this person have it so easy and I have it hard?’ was my question to GOD on many occasion. I mean it seemed “unfair” that people who never profess GOD seem to have it easy while I was struggling day to day serving HIM. “What good is it anyway?” I exclaimed.

GOD reminds me that my rewards are in heaven for everything I do here on earth. When I sincerely serve HIM, I get excited when someone else gets more than me. GOD fills my heart with the fact that HE has a great reward for me because I can enjoy seeing what HE is doing in other folk’s lives. Praise for others brings rewards.

• Are you struggling so much that you get jealous when someone else gets something?
• Do you feel mad at GOD for not giving you more?
• Will you open your heart wider for others and add praise to GOD when they get a temporary windfall?
• Can you praise GOD today for the rewards in heaven HE is storing up for you?

Reasonable Purpose

Luke 8: ³⁸ Now the man from whom the demons had departed begged Him that he might be with Him. But Jesus sent him away, saying, ³⁹ “Return to your own house, and tell what great things God has done for you.” And he went his way and proclaimed throughout the whole city what great things Jesus had done for him.

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“Please oh please let me get through this” I cried out to the LORD. It seemed like the storm had been prolonged, and I was very tired. On that same day all of the current situations cleared up. I told no one.

• There have been times when things went right and I did not praise GOD.
• There have been times when I got everything I asked for and told no one about GOD.
• There have been times when all my prayers were answered and I kept my praise to myself.

The man healed from being tormented by demons desired to follow JESUS, BUT GOD had a different plan. JESUS told him to “Return to your own house, and tell what great things GOD has done for you.” The man did so and now his life had purpose.

• When GOD brings me through trials HE wants me to tell everyone about HIS grace.
• When GOD rescues me HE wants me to tell everyone about HIS mercy.
• When GOD delivers me from small to large situations HE wants me to proclaim HIS love to everyone.

GOD wants me to be very vocal about HIS goodness. HE has delivered me time and time again. In fact, HE is busy delivering me through current trials! HE does not want me to grow weary and fills me up with HIS blessings. GOD is my refuge.

• Are you growing tired?
• Are you going through another trial?
• Can you remember the times GOD has delivered you over and over again so your faith can grow and get you through this trial?
• Will you tell people about the goodness of GOD today?