Dead to Alive

Dead to Alive

Revelation 20: ¹¹ Then I saw a great white throne and the one who sits on it. Earth and heaven fled from his presence and were seen no more. ¹² And I saw the dead, great and small alike, standing before the throne. Books were opened, and then another book was opened, the book of the living. The dead were judged according to what they had done, as recorded in the books. ¹³ Then the sea gave up its dead. Death and the world of the dead also gave up the dead they held. And all were judged according to what they had done. ¹⁴ Then death and the world of the dead were thrown into the lake of fire. (This lake of fire is the second death.) ¹⁵ Those who did not have their name written in the book of the living were thrown into the lake of fire.

 

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Seeing what seemed to be an ocean of people without homes, I decided to go another route. I only had enough in “my” wallet for “my” lunch. After a while, I was good at avoiding poor people. And besides, they were just going to take my money and use it to get drunk or buy drugs, right?

 

• I had figured out ways to not help the poor.
• I had justified why it was important for me to keep “my” money.
• I had labeled people in ways that made “me” feel good for not helping.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, saw the throne of JESUS. The sight was so incredible that Earth and heaven fled from HIS presence. John saw two sets of dead people, but only one set of books. The first set of dead were raised to “life” and the second set were raised to “death.”

 

My Observations:

• By believing in JESUS, all my deeds, will be replayed and I will be judged accordingly.
• For those who do not believe in JESUS as the Savior, even “good deeds” will be erased and counted against him or her.
• JESUS has a book of life that HE keeps and records the deeds we do that are precious to HIM.

 

“When did we feed YOU?” We will ask, JESUS will turn to a page and say “See, right here… When you gave that child a cup of water and some food.” “When did we clothe YOU?” we will ask. HE will flip to another page and say “See, its when you donated clothes.” JESUS cannot wait to show HIS people what they have done. Unfortunately HE also remembers what unbelievers have done.

 

HE will bring up all the deeds of those who manipulate, lie, cheat, harm and kill. These people will be thrown in the lake of fire with Satan, the beast and the false prophet. This “second death” will be an eternal death. I am glad you and me will be raised to an eternal life!

 

Challenge

• What deeds does the writer mention?
• Have you considered doing something good for someone, without desiring something in return?
• Have you given your life to CHRIST so your good deeds can be recorded as endearing to JESUS today?

Undisciplined Celebration

Undisciplined Celebration

Revelation 11: ⁷ When they finish proclaiming their message, the beast that comes up out of the abyss will fight against them. He will defeat them and kill them, ⁸ and their bodies will lie in the street of the great city, where their Lord was crucified. The symbolic name of that city is Sodom, or Egypt. ⁹ People from all nations, tribes, languages, and races will look at their bodies for three and a half days and will not allow them to be buried. ¹⁰ The people of the earth will be happy because of the death of these two. They will celebrate and send presents to each other, because those two prophets brought much suffering upon the whole human race. ¹¹ After three and a half days a life-giving breath came from God and entered them, and they stood up; and all who saw them were terrified. ¹² Then the two prophets heard a loud voice say to them from heaven, “Come up here!” As their enemies watched, they went up into heaven in a cloud. ¹³ At that very moment there was a violent earthquake; a tenth of the city was destroyed, and seven thousand people were killed. The rest of the people were terrified and praised the greatness of the God of heaven. 

¹⁴ The second horror is over, but the third horror will come soon!

 

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“No talking during library time” were the words of doom. Who wants to spend 30 minutes being quiet? First a note was passed, then a giggle would happen. Soon a word or two would come out, then full conversations. The battle of quiet to noise went on. Months later, the library teacher left and we celebrated! But another was put in place. This one was more strict and would enforce discipline.

 

• We wanted to do what we wanted to do!
• We wanted the teacher to be stopped by any means necessary.
• We celebrated the teacher’s abrupt departure, only to be met with a more strict teacher.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, saw the “beast” rise from the abyss. This being was able to kill the two prophets of GOD. People around the world celebrated, unknowingly siding with the beast, who could be classified as the second part of the unholy trinity with Satan. All seemed lost, BUT GOD intervened.

 

My Observations:

• GOD has total power over life and death.
• GOD has a specific time in which HE does everything.
• GOD has a plan to tear down Satan’s kingdom, so celebrating against GOD would not be wise.

 

Getting my way may not be good for me. I mean, when I want something that is not good for me, I may put my desires over GOD’s. HE may even allow me to get my way, but I may not want what I get. Trouble follows a celebration of my being undisciplined. BUT GOD has a remedy.

 

“Surrender” is something I need to do in order to truly change. HE wants me to surrender my life to HIM by believing in HIS SON, JESUS, who died for humanity and was raised from the dead. Only JESUS can cure the mess humans have made.

 

Challenge

• Does the writer seem as if he was writing a horror movie of today?
• Have you ever celebrated something you were clearly doing wrong?
• Will you ask GOD to guide you away from the things you were or are doing, that are against HIM, so you can have a loving relationship with HIM today?

Water Symbol

Water Symbol

¹⁸ For Christ died for sins once and for all, a good man on behalf of sinners, in order to lead you to God. He was put to death physically, but made alive spiritually, ¹⁹ and in his spiritual existence he went and preached to the imprisoned spirits. ²⁰ These were the spirits of those who had not obeyed God when he waited patiently during the days that Noah was building his boat. The few people in the boat—eight in all—were saved by the water, ²¹ which was a symbol pointing to baptism, which now saves you. It is not the washing off of bodily dirt, but the promise made to God from a good conscience. It saves you through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, ²² who has gone to heaven and is at the right side of God, ruling over all angels and heavenly authorities and powers.

 

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“Put this tee shirt on” was the statement from the group I volunteered for the day. It had the name of the organization and their slogan. When we were working together, everyone could tell we were all part of a group.

 

• My shirt told others I belonged with the group.
• I wore the shirt without shame.
• While I wore the shirt, I was supposed to be doing what the group was doing.

 

Peter goes into some heavy theology as guided by the HOLY SPIRIT. He explained that JESUS, the only sinless human, died and was raised from the dead to save anyone who would believe in HIM. He then compared Noah’s family being saved to baptism. Both events are symbolic to the salvation through the resurrection of JESUS. Both events required faith and belief.

 

My Observations:

• Just like Noah, who completed his task of building an ark all his life, GOD wants me to be steadfast and not give up.
• Just like water baptism in front of people, GOD wants me to declare my relationship with HIM versus hiding it at convenient times.
• Just like showing up to work, GOD wants me to hold up my end of the promise by living for HIM and keeping a “good conscience.”

 

Living for GOD can be hard these days. I mean, the symbols can be twisted from love to hatred. Some godly symbols can be misunderstood or even thrown in the dirt. BUT GOD is above any symbol.

 

HE got excited when I chose to be baptized because I declared to the world that I belong to HIM. Now HE wants me to wear HIS clothing for all to see. Meanwhile, JESUS is on the throne ruling over all authorities. I am glad I will one day see HIM through cleaned eyes.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer mention baptism?
• Have you ever tried to hide your relationship with GOD in order to gain something from people?
• If you are hiding your relationship with JESUS, will you unhide it little by little to save those around you today?

Death or No Death

Death or No Death

1 Thessalonians 4: ¹⁵ What we are teaching you now is the Lord's teaching: we who are alive on the day the Lord comes will not go ahead of those who have died. ¹⁶ There will be the shout of command, the archangel's voice, the sound of God's trumpet, and the Lord himself will come down from heaven. Those who have died believing in Christ will rise to life first; ¹⁷ then we who are living at that time will be gathered up along with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will always be with the Lord. ¹⁸ So then, encourage one another with these words.

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“Don’t worry about it” were the assuring words from someone who saw me crying over in the corner. I had messed up “whatever” and was crying. It took me a while to realize that whatever I was crying over really did not matter.

 

• I was upset.
• I thought I had messed up.
• I worried that I could not be included in the favor others had.

 

Paul, Silas and Timothy spoke about the “Day of the LORD.” This is the moment JESUS will return to collect what is rightfully HIS. Anyone who died believing in JESUS as the Savior will rise from the dead. Anyone alive will be “gathered up” in the clouds to meet the LORD. These were encouraging words.

 

My Observations

• The “Day of the LORD” will be a glorious day for those who believe in the Risen LORD.
• Those who have died believing in CHRIST will be risen,
• Those who are alive believing in CHRIST will be “gathered up”.

 

Having a bad day? What about messing up? All bad days and messing up will one day come to an end. Based on the belief in JESUS as the Savior, even death cannot stop us from being with HIM. HE will raise people from the dead and will gather up those who believe.

 

Unfortunately the “Day of the LORD” has a difficult side. Those who are against JESUS and who persecuted HIS servants will not see HIS grace. One day HIS mercy will end for those who do not believe. Until then, I look up to the heavens, each and every day, to see when HE will return.

 

Challenge

• What do the writers say about death?
• What does this passage say about “life?”
• Will you give your life purpose and seek GOD’s kingdom to prepare people to receive CHRIST today?
• Will you be encouraged that JESUS has you, no matter how much you messed up or how many days have been bad?

 

Brought Back to the Right Place

Brought Back to the Right Place

1 Thessalonians 4: ¹³ Our friends, we want you to know the truth about those who have died, so that you will not be sad, as are those who have no hope. ¹⁴ We believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will take back with Jesus those who have died believing in him.

 

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Driving around in circles, I asked for directions twice. I could not find my way to my destination. Finally I stopped a third time and asked for directions. “This place is confusing, but I will help you” were the comforting words I received from a stranger.

 

• I was lost and did not know how to get unlost.
• I was getting frustrated with being lost.
• I watched the time more intently as I drove around, seemingly aimlessly.

 

Paul, Silas and Timothy spoke about life after death. This confusing subject has been met with all sorts of philosophies, but they brought the truth. They spoke of eternal life through belief in the resurrection of JESUS.

 

My Observations

• This place is not my home, rather GOD’s kingdom is my desired home.
• Life can be confusing, BUT GOD is the only truth I can believe.
• JESUS was murdered, yet HE rose from the dead and now that I believe, I can have everlasting life.

 

GOD is in control. This statement is more difficult to say when things are going wrong or falling apart. Life can be confusing and directionless. BUT GOD made a way back to HIM, namely JESUS.

 

HE pursues us, knocks on us and asks us to surrender our lives to HIM. HE cares deeply for us, especially when we sin. HE provides for us and cannot wait to take us back to the place JESUS is building to this day. I a glad GOD has us in HIS hands and will never let go.

 

Challenge

• What is the writers opinion about death?
• What is your opinion about death and life after death?
• Will you surrender your life to CHRIST and seek JESUS as your Savior so you can be taken back when HE returns?

 

Unfavorable Record Canceled

Unfavorable Record Canceled

Colossians 2: ¹³ You were at one time spiritually dead because of your sins and because you were Gentiles without the Law. But God has now brought you to life with Christ. God forgave us all our sins; ¹⁴ he canceled the unfavorable record of our debts with its binding rules and did away with it completely by nailing it to the cross. ¹⁵ And on that cross Christ freed himself from the power of the spiritual rulers and authorities; he made a public spectacle of them by leading them as captives in his victory procession.

 

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Receiving a phone call from the credit collection agency did not feel good. “You owe us $54 from three years ago” was the statement from one group. “For real?” I thought in my mind.

 

• I did not even know I had the debt.
• I was furious that the collection agency was relentless with such a small amount.
• I had to pay the debt because I owed it.

 

Paul speaks in terms most people can understand. He gives the analogy of debt, knowing most people could understand owing someone. He spoke of eternal debt that could not be repaid. The only solution was to forgive the debt by “nailing it to the cross.”

 

My Observations

• I am in great debt to GOD and need to be forgiven.
• I have sinned in a small way and a huge way and need a Savior to forgive me.
• I am forgiven for all my sins only because of JESUS.

 

Being spiritually dead mean I had no life in me to fix the problem of my relationship with GOD. I mean, I was dead! I needed help and could not do anything but lay three dead and lifeless. BUT GOD had a different plan.

 

HE saw my sins that caused me to die a spiritual death and said, “Your debt to me is canceled!” He said “You owe me everything and since you believe in MY SON, you owe me nothing.” All I can do is thank HIM for HIS total forgiveness. I am glad JESUS knows my sins, took them away from me and made the sin itself a “public spectacle” HE parades in HIS victory procession.

 

Challenge

• Have you ever been so sick that you needed other people to help you do things?
• What does the writer mean about being “spiritually dead?”
• Will you recognize that there is nothing within you that can save you from eternal death?
• Will you also recognize the need to have all your debts canceled by JESUS who is already victorious over all sin today!

 

Circumcised, Baptized, Symbolized

Circumcised, Baptized, Symbolized

Colossians 2: ¹¹ In union with Christ you were circumcised, not with the circumcision that is made by human beings, but with the circumcision made by Christ, which consists of being freed from the power of this sinful self. ¹² For when you were baptized, you were buried with Christ, and in baptism you were also raised with Christ through your faith in the active power of God, who raised him from death. 

 

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Joining a group made me feel like I finally fit in. I had gone through all the barriers of joining and received a pin that represented my inclusion in the group. To some, this was a symbol that would shape their life.

 

• I felt I was part of a group.
• I wore my symbols proudly.
• I thought the group gave me “purpose.”

 

Paul spoke of the symbolism of circumcision and baptism. He lets everyone know that true circumcision is not from humans rather it is a spiritual cutting of the heart that results  being freed from the enslaving power of sin. He also explains that baptism is a symbolic death and resurrection believers can share to show their faith in JESUS.

 

My Observations

• I can celebrate being freed from sin every day by recognizing JESUS.
• I can show the world I “belong” to the largest family that will live eternally by praising JESUS.
• I can live as a freed person by placing my trust in JESUS.

 

Circumcision and baptism are nice symbolic rituals, BUT GOD wants my heart. I mean, the rules have to apply for men and women alike. HE sees the sin in my heart and knows I need surgery that can only come from HIM.

 

HE cuts away the sin that clings to my soul and replaces it with HIS SPIRIT. HE then washes away all my sins with the blood of JESUS which covers me from head to toe. The blood that JESUS shed for me is still powerful enough to raise me from the dead. I am glad I have already been raised from an eternal death.

 

Challenge

• What circumcision is the writer speaking of?
• Have you ever just wanted to be “free?”
• Will you accept CHRIST’s freedom by being baptized into HIS vast family so you can belong to HIM today?

Raised From The Dead

Raised From The Dead

Ephesians 2: ⁴ But God's mercy is so abundant, and his love for us is so great, ⁵ that while we were spiritually dead in our disobedience he brought us to life with Christ. It is by God's grace that you have been saved.

 

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When I think of something that is dead, I see that it can no longer do anything it was meant to do. A dead plant cannot produce fruit. A dead battery cannot produce power. But what about a dead human?

 

• There were times when I thought I was not useful.
• There were times when I thought GOD was tired of me or ready to punish me.
• There were times when I thought I was dead to GOD because I sinned one time too many.

 

GOD’s mercy, love and grace are mentioned here by Paul. These overlooked items show that it was all GOD who did the saving and nothing humans could do to provoke HIM towards or away from HIS plan.

 

My Observations

• We were dead and could not produce fruit, BUT GOD saved us anyway.
• We were dead and were powerless to make an appeal to GOD to show how “good” we have been, yet HE brought us to life with CHRIST.
• We were dead and had nothing to give, nothing to offer and nothing to show, yet GOD’s grace saved us anyway.

 

Looking at our own power is problematic. I mean when I think I am doing well I may be doing extremely poorly in GOD’s eyes. When I think someone else is not doing well, he or she may be chosen by GOD in the middle of their sins.

 

GOD wants me to accept HIS mercy which is more than any sin I could do. HE also wants me to know HE loves me dearly and gave HIS only SON for me. HE sees my disobedience and still says “You are valuable to me” and shows me HIS grace. I am glad HE cares for all of us and I give my life to HIM.

 

Challenge

• What part do humans play in this verse?
• Can you feel GOD’s love in these words?
• Will you accept GOD’s love for you and know it is not your power that saved you rather it was HIS grace that is sufficient for you today?

Second Chance

Second Chance

1 Corinthians 15: ⁵⁶ Death gets its power to hurt from sin, and sin gets its power from the Law. ⁵⁷ But thanks be to God who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ!

 

⁵⁸ So then, my dear friends, stand firm and steady. Keep busy always in your work for the Lord, since you know that nothing you do in the Lord's service is ever useless.

 

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Cutting the tall bushes at our first house, I couldn’t quite reach the top. I didn’t have a ladder so standing on my toes was the best option. As I reached with the hedge trimmers, my arm gave way. My natural response kicked in and I tried to steady the moving blades with my other hand, which was bare. I only needed stitches, but the finger was not cut off.

 

• I have had many close calls.
• I have had situations that I could have really been hurt.
• I have been given a second chance to do things right many times.

 

Paul gives us the Good News again. He explains that JESUS gave us the victory over a situation that seemed lost. Everyone must die was the problem presented to GOD because of the first sin. “But thanks be to GOD who gives us victory through our LORD JESUS CHRIST.”

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to stand firm because of the victory JESUS did.
• GOD wants me to remain steady even though life may throw many obstacles in my way.
• GOD wants me to keep busy in my work for the LORD, for even the smallest service is useful to HIM.

 

Sin and death cause fear. I mean, who wants punishment and who wants the pain of death? No one. BUT JESUS overcame death and released us from the sentence that wasn’t even caused by us.

 

Being born into sin doesn’t seem fair. BUT JESUS dying because of my birth seems exponentially unfair to HIM. HE took on all my sins and I no longer have to die eternally. I can have peace as HE guides me in ways to serve HIM daily.

 

Challenge

• What victory is the writer speaking about?
• Does knowing that JESUS is not out to punish you but to save you give you any relief?
• When given a second chance to do things right, what would you do differently?

Secret Hope

 Secret Hope

1 Corinthians 15: ^51-52 Listen to this secret truth: we shall not all die, but when the last trumpet sounds, we shall all be changed in an instant, as quickly as the blinking of an eye. For when the trumpet sounds, the dead will be raised, never to die again, and we shall all be changed. ⁵³ For what is mortal must be changed into what is immortal; what will die must be changed into what cannot die. ⁵⁴ So when this takes place, and the mortal has been changed into the immortal, then the scripture will come true: “Death is destroyed; victory is complete!”

 

⁵⁵ “Where, Death, is your victory?
Where, Death, is your power to hurt?”

 

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After stepping off a porch, my foot landed strange and my Achilles tendon hurt. My first thought was “Man! Another trial!” This body has been bruised, sick and hurt many times over the decades. “I don’t have time for this!” I thought to myself.

 

• I really don’t like to be in pain.
• I also do not like being sick.
• I also despise being worried, scared, lonely, sad, or furious.

 

GOD revealed something secret to mankind through many writers, including Paul. This revelation is something the world has been waiting for since the first human was created. The major question is “When will all of this end?” Philosophers debate, but Paul makes it plain in a few words, “We shall all be changed in an instant.” But what does that mean?

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to know that JESUS overcame death by being raised to life first.
• GOD wants me to see that this act of love enables JESUS to judge the world.
• GOD wants me to understand that by believing JESUS has this authority, I can and will be changed into the immortal where death will not be able to hurt me.

 

Is there life after death? “Yes!” is my belief. I also believe that at some point GOD will say, “Enough” and all of life as we know it, will cease. Death will no longer be a worry, nor will trying to “extend” life or its comforts. The trumpet will sound and nothing will be the same.

 

Another writer, John, wrote about the seventh trumpet. This was the last huge announcement of judgement in which seven horrible things were about to happen. I am not sure when this will take place, but I am glad GOD gave me hope that HE is looking out for those HE chose.

 

Challenge

• Have you ever wished that the trials and tribulation would stop?
• Do you find yourself losing hope at times?
• Will you look beyond your current circumstances and know that GOD sees you and loves you and wants to spend eternity with you in a place that has no pain, sickness or worries?

Spiritual Beauty

Spiritual Beauty

1 Corinthians 15: ⁴⁰ And there are heavenly bodies and earthly bodies; the beauty that belongs to heavenly bodies is different from the beauty that belongs to earthly bodies. ⁴¹ The sun has its own beauty, the moon another beauty, and the stars a different beauty; and even among stars there are different kinds of beauty.

 

⁴² This is how it will be when the dead are raised to life. When the body is buried, it is mortal; when raised, it will be immortal. ⁴³ When buried, it is ugly and weak; when raised, it will be beautiful and strong. ⁴⁴ When buried, it is a physical body; when raised, it will be a spiritual body. There is, of course, a physical body, so there has to be a spiritual body.

 

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Driving vacations have been special to me when the destination was unknown. One memorable vacation was spent driving up the coast of one particular state. We left a familiar beautiful place and ran into unfamiliar beaches with sea lions sunbathing. Another place had tall cliffs with the ocean cascading a wonderous backdrop. Yet another place had tall wide trees and ferns adorning their feet. Each had its own beauty.

 

• I appreciate nature more and more.
• I like to look up and see the beauty way up in the sky.
• I enjoy experiencing beauty even if it is a creepy spiderweb spun with precision.

 

Paul speaks about beauty in nature, He talks about the unique beauty each area brings. Right outside, there is beauty in everything. He then spoke of how beautiful and strong each person will be when raised from the dead. No more weakness or decay, rather an everlasting beauty.

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to see the beauty in HIS creation each day.
• GOD wants me to know that one day HE will transform my body into something beautiful and eternal.
• GOD wants me to know HIS definition of beauty is far above that of a human.

 

”Beauty is in the eye of the beholder” as the saying goes. But the true beholder is GOD. HE seems to delight in unique things. He made every drop of water in the ocean and every grain of sand on a beach.

 

I can marvel at what HE made and know this pales in comparison to what HE has in store for those who believe in HIM. I am glad HE sees the beauty in me and other believers in JESUS.

 

Challenge

• When you look at nature and life, do you see GOD as the creator?
• What does seeing GOD in creation have to do with your resurrection?
• Do you know GOD is far more concerned about you than HE is about a planet?
• Can you see the inner beauty in you and others more and more today by being reminded by nature?

Creator’s Choice

Creator’s Choice

1 Corinthians 15: ³⁵ Someone will ask, “How can the dead be raised to life? What kind of body will they have?” ³⁶ You fool! When you plant a seed in the ground, it does not sprout to life unless it dies. ³⁷ And what you plant is a bare seed, perhaps a grain of wheat or some other grain, not the full-bodied plant that will later grow up. ³⁸ God provides that seed with the body he wishes; he gives each seed its own proper body.

 

³⁹ And the flesh of living beings is not all the same kind of flesh; human beings have one kind of flesh, animals another, birds another, and fish another.

 

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Art was my favorite class. I could do something very different than the next person and my work would still be appreciated. I learned to color outside the lines in coloring books. Doodling helped me rest my mind and drawing cartoon style soon became a desire.

 

• I love creativity.
• I appreciate what people can come up with.
• I enjoy seeing other people’s talents.

 

Paul attempts to address questions people may have about the after-life. One question is “What kind of body will they have” in reference to being raised from the dead. He harshly points us to the Creator. He uses an analogy that humans can plant seeds but only GOD can make the seed that is planted.

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to reduce my wondering “Why HE made me the way I am.”
• GOD wants me to be excited that HE created me with excitement.
• GOD wants me to appreciate that HE created me one of a kind and was pleased.

 

What I am and what I will become is up to GOD. I mean, HE is the one who shaped me in this body and when HE transforms me into the “proper body”, that too will be HIS choice. The exception will be I will have full appreciation of HIS artistry.

 

HE creates humans with unique nuances as well as animals and birds and fish. Not one thing is the same. GOD’s perfection is an art. I appreciate that GOD enjoys uniqueness.

 

Challenge

• Have you ever asked GOD “Why did you make me this way?”
• What is the writer’s reaction towards questioning the body type in the after-life?
• Which word comes to mind when recognizing GOD’s creation of you or other’s; appreciation, harmony or purpose?

It Is Who You Know

It Is Who You Know

1 Corinthians 15: ²⁰ But the truth is that Christ has been raised from death, as the guarantee that those who sleep in death will also be raised. ²¹ For just as death came by means of a man, in the same way the rising from death comes by means of a man. ²² For just as all people die because of their union with Adam, in the same way all will be raised to life because of their union with Christ. 

 

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“Wow, we have box seats at the game!” I said with glee. Our team was being rewarded for some hard work. “Let me explain the rules” said the gift giver’s assistant. A list of do’s and don’t followed because we represented the gift giver’s reputation. We would not have been there if it were not for the gift giver.

 

• I have been places because I knew the right person.
• I have seen things because of my relationship with the right person.
• I have benefited from things because I knew the right person.

 

Paul explains that just being born is just cause for GOD to send a person to an eternal death. One human took all humans down to death. But one sinless human restored the relationship, namely JESUS.

 

My Observations

• GOD wants an everlasting relationship with me so HE volunteered to die for me.
• GOD wants me to be united with HIM so HE provided a way back to HIM.
• GOD wants all to be saved so HE made a way for all who accept JESUS to be raised to life.

 

Being united with CHRIST has to mean something. I mean, JESUS is the most powerful, all knowing all seeing being there is. HE is united to the FATHER and the HOLY SPIRIT. HIS resurrection gives HIM all authority. Knowing JESUS means a lot.

 

But knowing “of” JESUS is different than knowing JESUS. I can know a celebrity’s name but may not get the benefit that a relationship would bring. Having a relationship with JESUS requires that I admit I need HIM as my Savior and that I surrender my life to HIM. I am grateful HE wants a relationship with me because I would not have chosen HIM.

 

Challenge

• How does the writer use the word “union?”
• Have you ever respected someone so much that you were willing to act a certain way around him or her?
• Will you be united with JESUS and give your life to HIM little by little so HE can use you to reach many to raise them to life?

Hope Actions

Hope Actions

1 Corinthians 15: ¹² Now, since our message is that Christ has been raised from death, how can some of you say that the dead will not be raised to life? ¹³ If that is true, it means that Christ was not raised; ¹⁴ and if Christ has not been raised from death, then we have nothing to preach and you have nothing to believe. ¹⁵ More than that, we are shown to be lying about God, because we said that he raised Christ from death—but if it is true that the dead are not raised to life, then he did not raise Christ. ¹⁶ For if the dead are not raised, neither has Christ been raised. ¹⁷ And if Christ has not been raised, then your faith is a delusion and you are still lost in your sins. ¹⁸ It would also mean that the believers in Christ who have died are lost. ¹⁹ If our hope in Christ is good for this life only and no more, then we deserve more pity than anyone else in all the world.

 

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I used the term “I hope I get” a lot, for things I wanted. I said “I hope I get the dorm and my friend as a roommate” not knowing if I had even been accepted into the college. “I hope I get the job” or “I hope this will work out” has sometimes grated against my hope. When the answer was “No” or “Wait”, my hope tended to wane.

 

• I mistakenly placed hope in things I could see like bank accounts and material things.
• I have placed hope in my abilities or “capable” people.
• I tried to control situations rather than using hope as my foundation.

 

Paul spoke indirectly to a group of people known as the Sadducees. These people would be known as lawyers who studied the laws of Moses, given by GOD. Their unwritten motto was “Do everything right and you will have a good life.” One foundational belief that was problematic was, they did not believe in the resurrection of anyone, especially JESUS.

 

My Observation

• GOD wants me to know there is true life after this life.
• GOD wants me to believe that the same resurrection that happened to JESUS will happen to me, if I die.
• GOD wants me to understand that HE revealed enough of the afterlife to guide my actions in this life.

 

Belief in the afterlife is foundational to those who have a relationship with JESUS. I mean, saying “JESUS” is not enough. I must believe that JESUS died for a purpose and was raised from the dead for that same purpose, namely to save mankind.

 

The power that raised HIM from the dead is the same power that lives in me and will raise countless people to eternal life. Placing hope in this belief should guide my actions. But sometimes I place my hope in “me.” I think of a plan, act on that plan and get discouraged when the plan flops. GOD wants  my hope. I gladly place my hope in HIS power and love.

 

Challenge

• Have you pondered the afterlife?
• Do you think the actions you do daily only pertains to this life or the immediate situation?
• Have you ever acted impulsively and regretted it?
• Will you take time to ponder your existence and seek JESUS as a place to put your hope today?

Breakthrough On Its Way

 

Breakthrough On Its Way

1 Corinthians 2: ⁶ Yet I do proclaim a message of wisdom to those who are spiritually mature. But it is not the wisdom that belongs to this world or to the powers that rule this world—powers that are losing their power. ⁷ The wisdom I proclaim is God's secret wisdom, which is hidden from human beings, but which he had already chosen for our glory even before the world was made. ⁸ None of the rulers of this world knew this wisdom. If they had known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. ⁹ However, as the scripture says,

 

“What no one ever saw or heard,
    what no one ever thought could happen,
    is the very thing God prepared for those who love him.”

 

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Rain kept falling for hours on end. This was the largest rainfall in years. On the way home, we were trapped by one flooded street after another. When I thought the route was clear, another flooded street seemed to emerge. “If I could just get to the other side of the flood, I would be alright” I thought to myself. Moments after that thought, the water began to recede on the street we were on.

 

• Many times in my life it seemed like I was trapped by life’s barriers.
• Many times in my life it seemed like there was no way out no matter how hard I tried.
• Many times in my life it seemed like life brought on tremendous blockades to the promises I had in store.

 

Paul speaks about the wisdom of GOD. The rulers of this world thought the message of JESUS could be stopped, so they killed HIM. BUT GOD made the impossible happen. JESUS was raised form the dead, releasing anyone who believes, from the bondage of sin.

 

• GOD wants me to know HE has already overcome my circumstance.
• GOD wants me to focus on the choice HE made before the world was made.
• GOD wants me to see the very thing HE prepared for me because I love HIM.

 

Secret wisdom cannot be tapped into without belief in JESUS. I mean, GOD chose us four our glory because HE loves us. JESUS did the impossible and came back to life. Meanwhile, the rulers of this world saw their power diminish steadily.

 

The powers that try to block GOD’s message will recede like flood waters. Nothing and no one can stop GOD’s message from being told from HIS chosen people. I am grateful GOD chose me to proclaim HIS message.

 

• Do you feel trapped?
• Do you think the rulers of this world can stop the message of GOD that HE has in store for you?
• Will you focus on GOD’s wisdom, knowing the barriers you face are temporary and diminishing each day so the very thing GOD prepared will happen today?

No Longer Rules

 

No Longer Rules

Romans 6: ⁵ For since we have become one with him in dying as he did, in the same way we shall be one with him by being raised to life as he was. ⁶ And we know that our old being has been put to death with Christ on his cross, in order that the power of the sinful self might be destroyed, so that we should no longer be the slaves of sin. ⁷ For when we die, we are set free from the power of sin. ⁸ Since we have died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. ⁹ For we know that Christ has been raised from death and will never die again—death will no longer rule over him. ¹⁰ And so, because he died, sin has no power over him; and now he lives his life in fellowship with God. ¹¹ In the same way you are to think of yourselves as dead, so far as sin is concerned, but living in fellowship with God through Christ Jesus.

 

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Fearing embarrassment, I did not want to bowl. But when I learned, it was fun. After years of enjoyment, my score got better and better. I entered a tournament and feared the outcome. What if I do poorly? I said to myself. I did better than I expected. While I did not win, I no longer had fear of being in tournaments.

 

• There have been many times when I feared something and it prevented me from trying.
• There have been many times when I failed at something and I feared messing up again.
• There have been many times when I did not want to go through the trouble of trying because I feared I would be criticized, or even ostracized.

 

Paul writes about the gripping hold sin has on people. He refers to sin as a slave owner that provides no freedom. The sin dictates what to do and how to do it. Death was always the prize when the person is owned by sin. BUT JESUS freed humanity by overcoming death.

 

• JESUS died for me so I am no longer owned by my sins.
• JESUS is alive so HIS power over my sins is infinite.
• JESUS enabled me to have fellowship with HIM by facing death for me.

 

Sin makes me make regretful decisions that usually lead to nowhere. I mean, when I make fearful decisions, thinking I am protecting myself, the situation has always turned out bad anyway. To make it worse, I try to be good for a minute, and that effort seems to fail.

 

GOD has already shown me extreme grace, patience and love. HE simply wants me to realize this so I do not have to rely on sin to make my decisions. I can put sin to death and rely on JESUS, who is my Savior.  I am glad HE overcame my sin so I can live in freedom.

 

• Is something holding you back?
• Are you letting fear, doubt and worry lead you?
• Will you allow JESUS to guide you so you can lead a victorious and abundant life, filled with HIS love today?

Follow the Instructions

Luke 24: On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. ² They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, ³ but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. ⁴ While they were wondering about this, suddenly two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning stood beside them. ⁵ In their fright the women bowed down with their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, ‘Why do you look for the living among the dead? ⁶ He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: ⁷ “The Son of Man must be delivered over to the hands of sinners, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.”’ ⁸ Then they remembered his words.

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“After you build it, then use sand paper on it, put finish on it and then use sand paper on it again” were the counter-intuitive words from my uncle, who was a master carpenter. I heeded his words, bot did not understand how all of this would work. When I finished building my custom furniture, it turned out just as he said.

• There have been times I have been skeptical because I did not understand.
• There have been times when the instructor has given me a message and I did not receive it wholeheartedly.
• There have been times when I did not quite believe the message that was given to me by someone who knows the information.

The women went to the tomb and found it empty. They were shocked until two “men” or angels, told them JESUS had risen, just as HE had said. They remembered HIS words and put it all together.

• JESUS told me “HE loves me with all HIS heart.”
• JESUS told me “I died for you and ALL of your sins are forgiven.”
• JESUS told me “I have taken care of every one of your needs.”

“Do not be afraid” is another message JESUS told me, but sometimes I forget HIS instructions and try to fix things on my own. When I look at the future with my sinful eyes, I can only see a fearful future. BUT GOD wants me to adjust where I am looking and focus on HIM.

GOD has made so many promises to protect me, grow me and love me, that I cannot ignore HIS wonderful plan for me. HE guides me to places I never would have thought and HE brings people to me that needs an encouraging word. JESUS did as HE said and I put my faith in HIM.

• Are you fighting GOD?
• Do you believe HE has take care of your problem?
• Will you put your faith in JESUS today and allow HIM to guide you?

Not Futile

Luke 23: ⁵⁰ Now there was a man named Joseph, a member of the Council, a good and upright man, ⁵¹ who had not consented to their decision and action. He came from the Judean town of Arimathea, and he himself was waiting for the kingdom of God. ⁵² Going to Pilate, he asked for Jesus’ body. ⁵³ Then he took it down, wrapped it in linen cloth and placed it in a tomb cut in the rock, one in which no one had yet been laid. ⁵⁴ It was Preparation Day, and the Sabbath was about to begin.

⁵⁵ The women who had come with Jesus from Galilee followed Joseph and saw the tomb and how his body was laid in it. ⁵⁶ Then they went home and prepared spices and perfumes. But they rested on the Sabbath in obedience to the commandment.

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Watching the last leaf fall off, I wondered if I needed to throw the plant away. I mean it seemed to be struggling and then it was gone. Somehow I felt I needed to keep the plant, so I replanted it. Weeks later, new leaves were growing.

• There are times when I think my efforts are futile.
• There are times when I try hard and don’t seem to get anywhere.
• There are times when it does not seem to be an end to obstacles.

A church leader names Joseph did not agree with the other church leaders when it came to killing JESUS. He sought the Kingdom of GOD and was deeply moved when JESUS was murdered. He had to do something, however little. He gave JESUS a burial not knowing what would happen.

• GOD says to me “Your efforts are not futile when you do them in MY name.”
• GOD says to me “MY word does not return void.”
• GOD says to me “Keep your faith for perseverance will make it whole.”

Persistence is what GOD likes. HE wants me to continue believing in HIS power especially when it seems like everything is falling apart. Even death could not stop JESUS, so the problems I face should not stop me from telling people about HIM. GOD wants me to keep going and know my efforts are not futile.

• Do you feel exhausted?
• Have you experienced a loss and are tired?
• Can you allow GOD to lift you up so you can continue to speak for HIM, knowing your efforts are blessed?