Property Management – Dealing with Thieves

Property Management – Dealing with Thieves

Exodus 22: “If a man steals an ox or a sheep, and slaughters it or sells it, he shall restore five oxen for an ox and four sheep for a sheep. ² If the thief is found breaking in, and he is struck so that he dies, there shall be no guilt for his bloodshed. ³ If the sun has risen on him, there shall be guilt for his bloodshed. He should make full restitution; if he has nothing, then he shall be sold for his theft. ⁴ If the theft is certainly found alive in his hand, whether it is an ox or donkey or sheep, he shall restore double.

 

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GOD gives Moses specific instructions on how to handle a thief. Earlier, GOD gave everyone the commandment, “You shall not steal.”

 

My Observations:

• GOD seemed to be dealing with a selfish mindset that would cause people to take what was not theirs.
• GOD wants to be the provider, but when someone steals, HIS provision is tainted.
• GOD seemed to desire that the thief make things right.

 

“I deserve this thing” is the limiting mindset that GOD is trying to address. HE is the one who determines what we deserve or not. Later GOD would speak about how HE hates robbery and wrongdoing, to Isaiah.

 

A thief is a person who steals something without asking for the thing or paying for the thing, usually done in stealth and without force or violence. Today, the mindset of the thief can be quite complex. It’s not just about oxen (tools) or sheep (food and clothing). Today’s thief takes ideas (Intellectual Property), identities (Digital Property), Housing (squatter), and stuff (Physical Assets).

 

I believe al of the Laws of Moses were put in place to protect the children of Israel and to point to CHRIST. They were supposed to act different than the Egyptians and the children of Canaan who would steal at the drop of a hat.

 

The thief did not want to work for their tools or food. GOD gave instructions that the caught thief needed to be put to work as the punishment. This is what the thief should have been doing in the first place, so the owner would have no guilt. If the punishment, however, caused the thief to die and nothing is done about the death, then the guilt would fall on the owner. GOD hates circumventing HIS provision to get one’s way.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD remind Moses about HIS way of dealing with the mindset of the thief?
• Are you stealing anything and trying to justify the theft?
• What do you have and what do you feel you deserve and does this cause a conflict between you and GOD?

Response to Livestock Diseased – Hard Heart

Response to Livestock Diseased – Hard Heart

Exodus 9: ⁷ Then Pharaoh sent, and indeed, not even one of the livestock of the Israelites was dead. But the heart of Pharaoh became hard, and he did not let the people go.

 

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GOD killed all of the Egyptian livestock as HE promised. Pharaoh checked to see if it was only the Egyptian livestock that was affected or did it include the children of Israel. “Indeed” it was only the Egyptian livestock that was killed. Pharaoh’s reaction, a hard heart.

 

My Observations:

• Pharaoh faced his worst catastrophe and allowed pride of his position to not relent to GOD’s power.
• Pharaoh was not acting out of fear, rather he may have been trying to prove he was still in power.
• Pharaoh seemed to need to be in control at other people’s expense.

 

With the transportation, food and farm animals all being dead, Pharaoh had to make his own people suffer more by checking on the Israelites by foot. When the report came back that the Israelite livestock was not affected, Pharaoh believed he was a god even more. He probably said, “I can fix this.”

 

I believe Pharaoh devised a plan to take some of the Israelite animals by force. The Bible does not say this, but the next couple of plagues imply that the Egyptians obtained more animals. Since GOD is telling Moses what to write, HE omits the story about Pharaoh’s misuse of power and keeps the focus on how HE was dismantling the mindset that a human can be a god.

 

Pharaoh may have convinced himself that there was a power behind his title. Meanwhile, the people around him had to suffer. The more he dug into his belief, the more people around him suffered. The heart of Pharaoh was hurting his own. GOD remained in control and Pharaoh’s illusion of control was fading.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD remind Moses about Pharaoh’s response to the death of all Egyptian livestock?
• Have you made decisions that adversely affected people around you, yet you continued anyway?
• Can you surrender your decisions that ultimately affect people by seeking GOD for wisdom and changing your mindset?

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?

No Bribes Accepted

No Bribes Accepted

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

My Observations:

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

 

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

 

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

 

Challenge

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

Competition

Competition

Philippians 2: ³ Don't do anything from selfish ambition or from a cheap desire to boast, but be humble toward one another, always considering others better than yourselves. ⁴ And look out for one another's interests, not just for your own.

 

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Wanting to get promoted, I worked hard. When I did not get the promotion, I was upset. I asked “Why/” I was told that I did not self-promote well. I started telling people about the “great” job “I” was doing but it still did not work. Then I was told to let other people know how “bad” my peers were doing.

 

• I really wanted to get ahead by being promoted.
• I wanted to be known for “my” expertise.
• I felt “I” deserved to be in charge because “I” knew more and “I” worked harder than others.

 

Paul addresses something that is deeply embedded in everyone, namely selfishness. From birth, humans desire things for themselves. GOD revealed to Paul that selfishness could lead to ambition which could lead to the same pride Satan had when trying to become GOD.

 

My Observations

• Selflessness is a learned behavior GOD wants me to acquire from JESUS.
• Being humble towards other people is something GOD wants me to act out so HIS voice can be heard.
• Looking out for other’s interest is a focus GOD wants me to include while looking out for myself.

 

Competing with other people means someone has to lose. I mean, when “I” get “my” way, and he or she does not, “I” get ahead and someone else is left behind. The world would say “What’s wrong with that?” BUT GOD would say “That is not the path I want you on.”

 

“Selfish” ambition “Cheap” desire and “Boasting” are all qualities that feel so good when used to get “ahead.” BUT GOD sees this as running towards HIS role. HE wants to be GOD while my role is to bring people to HIM. That’s it. I am glad GOD opens my eyes to my competitiveness and shows me a better way.

 

Challenge

• What is the warning from the writer?
• Have you ever pouted when another person got ahead and you did not?
• Have you ever asked GOD “What about me?”
• Will you consider that GOD has you where you are so you can help other people by looking out for his or her interests while looking out for yourself?

No Need to Argue

No Need to Argue

Philippians 1: ¹⁵ Of course some of them preach Christ because they are jealous and quarrelsome, but others from genuine good will. ¹⁶ These do so from love, because they know that God has given me the work of defending the gospel. ¹⁷ The others do not proclaim Christ sincerely, but from a spirit of selfish ambition; they think that they will make more trouble for me while I am in prison.

 

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“Did you see the email!?” I said to a friend in an offended way. There was a scripture mention that raised a huge debate. We went back and forth, adding point and counterpoint. To this day, I do not know what we argued over, and now I don’t even remember the guy’s name.

 

• I was offended easily when I heard something that did not align to “my” thinking..
• I was ready to “argue” about scripture.
• I was a self-proclaimed defender of the scriptures.

 

Paul addressed a touchy subject, namely motive of speaking about JESUS. Some people saw Paul was getting attention and, out of jealousy, spoke the name of JESUS too. Combative quarrelsome motive with the ambition to be noticed or right made more trouble than peace.

 

My Observations

• Love is the motive GOD wants me to have in my relationship with HIM.
• Peace is the offering GOD wants me to give to HIS creation.
• Joy is what GOD wants me to carry during troubled times so others can come to HIM in spite of their circumstance.

 

Fighting over who is right about GOD is futile. I mean, not one of us is right about GOD. There is no one who seeks HIM. BUT GOD did something amazing. HE sought us. HE became a human, died for us and was raised from the dead. I’m talking about JESUS. HE did not do this to cause fights about HIM, rather because HE loved us dearly.

 

Unfortunately, HE knew HIS message of love would split families, communities and churches. Arguments, jealousy and bitterness grows, BUT so does HIS love. GOD’s grace is sufficient and HIS anger is slow. I am grateful GOD is patient with me and gives me a chance to drop my combative spirit.

 

Challenge

• What reasons does the writer give for speaking about CHRIST?
• Have you ever argued over what someone else said or did?
• How are you proclaiming the message of CHRIST?
• Will you be the one who brings GOD’s peace and love to places that contain quarrels and combativeness today?

Choice to Live For

Choice to Live For

2 Corinthians 5: ¹¹ We know what it means to fear the Lord, and so we try to persuade others. God knows us completely, and I hope that in your hearts you know me as well. ¹² We are not trying again to recommend ourselves to you; rather, we are trying to give you a good reason to be proud of us, so that you will be able to answer those who boast about people's appearance and not about their character. ¹³ Are we really insane? It is for God's sake. Or are we sane? Then it is for your sake. ¹⁴ We are ruled by the love of Christ, now that we recognize that one man died for everyone, which means that they all share in his death. ¹⁵ He died for all, so that those who live should no longer live for themselves, but only for him who died and was raised to life for their sake.

 

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“We may lose the account” were the words that sparked my effort. I stayed at work for 36 hours, trying to finish the proposal for new work. The effort was wasted as the client had already made an agreement with some other firm.

 

• I lived to work and worked to live.
• I used all of my waking hours working or thinking about work.
• I was on a cycle of working to take vacations, buy stuff and live it up, so I needed to work hard.

 

Paul speaks of a choice to live for. In this passage he spoke about people who were wealthy enough to focus on their appearance. But they were not concerned about their character. He tried to persuade everyone to “fear the LORD.” Why? Because HE died and was raised to life.

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to live for only JESUS.
• GOD wants me to see everyone around me as HIS possession.
• GOD wants me to seek those who are actively rejecting HIM because JESUS died and was raised from the dead for all who believe.

 

It’s alright to work, buy nice things and go on vacations. But sometimes the “it’s alright” thought pattern leaves no room for GOD. I mean, it was alright to work hard, but never at the detriment of seeing people who need to hear the message of the “love of CHRIST.”

 

“It’s alright” can sometimes blind me to actually living for JESUS. It takes surrender to reduce the “It’s alright” enough to see what GOD wants me to do and say and “be.” Sometimes the battle is against comfort rather than the obvious things humans label as evil. I am glad the HOLY SPIRIT is patient with me and guides me little by little to live for HIM.

 

Challenge

• What do you recognize in the writers words?
• Have you ever assessed the conflict of living in comfort versus reducing some comforts to help others?
• Is there anything you can surrender that is “alright” to do so you can focus more on living for JESUS?
• What does it look like to live for CHRIST more and more each day?

Decisions, Decisions

 Decisions, Decisions

1 Corinthians 7: ³⁶ In the case of an engaged couple who have decided not to marry: if the man feels that he is not acting properly toward the young woman and if his passions are too strong and he feels that they ought to marry, then they should get married, as he wants to There is no sin in this. ³⁷ But if a man, without being forced to do so, has firmly made up his mind not to marry, and if he has his will under complete control and has already decided in his own mind what to do—then he does well not to marry the young woman. ³⁸ So the man who marries does well, but the one who doesn't marry does even better.

 

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As I sat and pondered my decision making, I noticed a trend. When I used my own greed, lusts and fears to make a decision, the results were catastrophic. But when I followed GOD’s leading and used faith, love and HIS purpose, I was always successful.

 

• There have been times when I made poor decisions based on arguments.
• There have been times when I made poor decisions based on faulty facts.
• There have been times when I made poor decisions based on trying to get what “I” wanted.

 

Paul discusses a difficult topic that was asked to him. “Should an engaged couple break up?” Paul addressed this by speaking of the root of decision making. GOD has to be in the middle of all decision making.

 

• GOD wants me to ask HIS opinion first before doing anything large or small.
• GOD wants me to seek HIS opinion first before making a decision.
• GOD wants me to align my decision making with HIS so I can have no regrets.

 

Having regrets means deep down inside, I made a decision that did not align with GOD. I mean, I can try to justify my sinful decision, BUT GOD lives inside me and knows the most hidden decision. HE searches every crack and crevasse of my heart and exposes what is inside.

 

When I use the fruit of the Spirit to the best of my ability, I have no regrets for any of decision I make. It means I am fully aligned with the will of GOD and my decisions are pleasing to HIM.

 

• What decisions are you trying to make?
• Do you have a decision to make that needs to go before GOD?
• Will you seek GOD’s advice before you make any more of your decisions today?

Keep Away From Them

 

Keep Away From Them

Romans 16: ¹⁷ I urge you, my friends: watch out for those who cause divisions and upset people's faith and go against the teaching which you have received. Keep away from them! ¹⁸ For those who do such things are not serving Christ our Lord, but their own appetites. By their fine words and flattering speech they deceive innocent people. ¹⁹ Everyone has heard of your loyalty to the gospel, and for this reason I am happy about you. I want you to be wise about what is good, but innocent in what is evil. ²⁰ And God, our source of peace, will soon crush Satan under your feet.

 

The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you.

 

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Willing to do anything legal for money, I stretched my values to include fine words and flattering speech to get “my” way. It worked. When the company came to me and said it was my job to explain away mistakes made by senior leaders, I got right in line and gave the story the right “spin” to make the $500 million gaff look salvageable.

 

• There have been times when I used “spin” to justify problems.
• There have been times when I used fine words to wow the crowd over.
• There have been times when I used flattering speech to keep the crowd from leaving.

 

Paul uses wisdom to explain a very important subject. Keep away from those who cause division and upset people’s faith. He knew some people would be very polished in their delivery and could grow large crows by their flattery. He also knew they were not speaking or living the Gospel of JESUS.

 

• GOD wants me to stay away from smooth talkers who do not live for or speak about JESUS.
• GOD wants me to stay away from the large crowd that seems powerful but is weak compared to JESUS.
• GOD wants me to recognize when someone is a deceiver based on their words that serve their own appetites.

 

Belief is in short supply these days. I mean it seems like leaders can lie and get away with it. Meanwhile, innocent people are hurt because of the flattering words. BUT GOD sees you. GOD sees those who believe in HIS SON and HE is happy with you and me.

 

HE removes my flattering fine words that would make “me” rich and replaces them with HIS Good News which is quite offensive in most circles. GOD wants to be first so HE will crush Satan under our feet. I am glad the grace of JESUS is with me.

 

• Are you seeking to be the answer?
• Will you lose your life trying to please the crowd instead of speaking up for JESUS?
• Will you leave the crowd that has flattering fine words so GOD can use you to speak about HIS SON today?

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?

Owning Protection

Owning Protection

John 18: ²⁵ Now Simon Peter stood and warmed himself. Therefore they said to him, “You are not also one of His disciples, are you?”

He denied it and said, “I am not!”

²⁶ One of the servants of the high priest, a relative of him whose ear Peter cut off, said, “Did I not see you in the garden with Him?” ²⁷ Peter then denied again; and immediately a rooster crowed.

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“They did it” was the automated response to blaming my siblings. I mean who wanted to get in trouble for throwing pillows and breaking stuff on accident. I sang like a bird as I told on them. I got in trouble anyway.

What lengths have I gone to in order to protect myself?

What lies have I told in order to protect myself from facing consequence?

What stories have I made up in my mind in order to convince myself, I do not deserve punishment?

Peter did what most people would have done. He lied about his relationship with JESUS to save himself. He slipped into the courtyard with the help of the bold disciple. When he was recognized, he denied any relationship with JESUS. This was predicted by JESUS.

When I am in public, JESUS wants me to share my relationship with HIM.

When I am faced with consequence, JESUS wants me to remember HE is with me.

When I am persecuted by those who are supposed to be on my side, JESUS wants me to know I am blessed.

“Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for MY sake” are the words that should remain when I think I should protect myself. Instead of getting out of trouble, I should face the situation with truth.

GOD wants me to join HIM in truth and accept all responsibilities for my actions. HE also wants me to face ridicule from those who have slandered me to get their way. HE has a greater reward for those who stand with HIM during times of persecution. I am grateful I can face my problems with GOD.

Are you trying to protect yourself by blaming someone else?

Have you made up stories so you can protect your image?

Will you seek GOD’s kingdom in spite of the possibility of being ridiculed, insulted or persecuted?

Will you allow GOD to own your protection today?

Friendly

Friendly

John 15: ¹³ Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends. ¹⁴ You are My friends if you do whatever I command you. ¹⁵ No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I heard from My Father I have made known to you. 

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Sitting in the back seat of their car, the driver and passenger asked me questions “Do you know JESUS?” they asked. I said “Yes” and thanked them for the ride. My car had broken down and I had no idea how far the next exit was.

• Many strangers have been very friendly to me.
• Many strangers have shown friendliness towards me without being prompted.
• Many strangers have done friendly things to me, even when I did not ask.

JESUS calls HIS disciples “fiends.” HE goes a step further and says “There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for friends.” This is what JESUS did. But what am I supposed to do?

• JESUS wants me to seek opportunities to be a friend to somebody.
• JESUS wants me to stop thinking about myself for a moment and be friendly to someone.
• JESUS wants me to change my mind about people and be friendly instead of combative.

There is nothing I can give GOD when HE gave it all to me. I mean HE died for me. I cannot die for HIM, or can I. HE wants me to think of others with love rather than being irritated with them. Instead of being “too busy” for them, HE wants me to sacrifice my “precious” time to be there for them.

Laying down my life for a moment takes sacrifice. I may have to lay aside my comfort, pet peeves and made up human beliefs to show GOD’s love. JESUS showed me how to be a friend. HE gave me HIS word and wants me to pass it on. I can do the same, little by little.

• Do you complain about people?
• Are you mad at “that’ person?
• Will you lay down your life for a moment and show the world how to be a friend to someone today?

Looking for Thanks

Luke 17: ¹¹ Now on his way to Jerusalem, Jesus traveled along the border between Samaria and Galilee. ¹² As he was going into a village, ten men who had leprosy met him. They stood at a distance ¹³ and called out in a loud voice, “Jesus, Master, have pity on us!”

¹⁴ When he saw them, he said, “Go, show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went, they were cleansed.

¹⁵ One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice. ¹⁶ He threw himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked him—and he was a Samaritan.

¹⁷ Jesus asked, “Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine?18 Has no one returned to give praise to God except this foreigner?”¹⁹ Then he said to him, “Rise and go; your faith has made you well.”

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Being angry at “that” person made it difficult to be thankful. I took the things offered to me but felt rage in my heart. I mean it was their fault so I have a right to be angry, right?

• Many times I had anger in my heart.
• Many times I had too many problems on my mind to be thankful.
• Many times I had an expectation that was not met.

JESUS cleansed ten lepers but only one returned to say “Thank YOU.” It was possible that the other nine were cast out of the church, according to the law,  and accepted mingling with the “foreigner” Samaritan. When JESUS sent them back to the church to be restored, they did not thank HIM.

• GOD wants me to be thankful for every little thing people do for me.
• GOD wants me to be thankful for all that I have, even through difficult times.
• GOD wants me to be thankful because hatred and bitterness can fill my heart and blind me to HIS wonderful plan.

“Thank YOU” is what GOD is looking for, but in many instances I give HIM complaints about not having enough. While HE can handle my complaints and requests for more stuff, HE does want me to say “Thank YOU” every now and then. A heartfelt thanks is in order for GOD from me today. “THANK YOU LORD!”

• Are you busy complaining to GOD about the latest problem?
• Can you recall the last time you really said “Thank YOU” to GOD?
• Will you take a moment today and praise GOD by saying “Thank YOU?”

Yuck Mouth

Luke 6: ⁴³ “No good tree bears bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit.44 Each tree is recognized by its own fruit. People do not pick figs from thorn bushes, or grapes from briers. ⁴⁵ A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.

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Making people laugh felt great. After I strung together a beautiful tapestry of foul words and nasty quips, I had my makeshift audiences filled with laughter. Afterwards, I would use my filthy mouth to bring someone down to size, especially if they cut me off in traffic!

• There were times when I was full of rage.
• There were times when I would sit and think of foul things.
• There were times when my foul thoughts turned into foul words.

JESUS spoke about the heart. HE mentioned that whatever is in the heart will come out of the mouth. This would be good or bad fruit.

• GOD says to me “Whatever you sow, you will reap.”
• GOD says to me “Teach people about MY love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.”
• GOD says to me “Treat people how you want to be treated and how I want you to treat them.”

Bearing fruit for GOD means my heart has to change. I need to see things from a different perspective. Rage, filth and ego can only be replaced by GOD’s love, grace and mercy when I recognize the need for HIM. HE provides in HIS way and time. No longer should I complain, but praise!

• What conversations have you held recently?
• Have you been complaining or spreading peace?
• Will you mature enough to teach people about GOD’s everlasting love to others today?

Power of Unity

Matthew 18: ¹⁸ “Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.

¹⁹ “Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. ²⁰ For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”

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Purity of prayer is what I believe GOD is looking for. I mean I believe HE wants to get to the heart of the matter, but sometimes my heart my not be focused on GOD, rather my own selfish ways.

• Many times I want “my” way.
• Many times I desire what “I” want.
• Many times I hope to get what is good for ”me.”

“I”, “me”, “my” prayers do not work when there are more than one person involved. If two people oppose each other and are fighting, quite honestly I do not know how GOD sorts out the selfish prayers of the bitter hearts. I honestly believe HE ignores the prayers due to selfishness. How can HE hear the prayers?

• GOD wants me to unite with others and pray together.
• GOD wants me to put aside my selfish ways for a moment in order to have a successful prayer.
• GOD wants me to come together “In HIS name” so HE can come along side of “us.”

Gathering in CHRIST’s name means “my” and “our” motive is only for GOD’s will to be done. We are gathering to ask GOD about something HE wants to grant us. Of course HE wants to give it to us! HE gets so excited that I am uniting with others for HIS purpose that HE gladly bestows it on “us” in abundance.

• When is the last time you gathered with a group to pray for something GOD wants versus individual’s needs?
• Can you drop your selfishness long enough to unite on a common purpose for GOD?
• Will you ask for something amazing to happen like maybe your entire neighborhood accepting and following CHRIST?

Stumbling

Matthew 18: ⁶ “If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea. ⁷ Woe to the world because of the things that cause people to stumble! Such things must come, but woe to the person through whom they come! ⁸ If your hand or your foot causes you to stumble, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to enter life maimed or crippled than to have two hands or two feet and be thrown into eternal fire. ⁹ And if your eye causes you to stumble, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to enter life with one eye than to have two eyes and be thrown into the fire of hell.

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Sexual purity was the last thing on my mind when I was hanging out at the clubs. Admiration turned into action as I sought after short term fulfillment. The problem was the next day. Riddled with guilt and shame I did not feel like I had followed CHRIST and I’m sure I could not talk to my lustful companion about HIM.

• There were times I have been controlled by lust.
• There have been times when I said, “I deserve a little sin.”
• There were times I caused people to stumble.

Dragging someone into my mess is a real problem to GOD. Not only am I harming me, I am harming someone else. GOD wanted my behavior to change.

• GOD said to me “I want your mind, body and soul.”
• GOD said to me “I want you to keep the temple I have given you pure and clean.”
• GOD said to me “Watch carefully what you put in your heart.”

The passage doesn’t just talk about sexual purity. It speaks about character. If I am stealing, lying, cheating, complaining or threatening, I may have caused myself and others to stumble in their faith. GOD wants me to speak and act with HIS motives so others can be drawn to HIM.

• Are you building people up or tearing them down?
• Are you fulfilling your lusts and causing yourself and others to stumble?
• Can you stop focusing on yourself for a moment and focus on others long enough to tell them about JESUS?

Miracles Have Purpose

Matthew 11: ²⁰ Then Jesus began to denounce the towns in which most of his miracles had been performed, because they did not repent. ²¹ “Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the miracles that were performed in you had been performed in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes. ²² But I tell you, it will be more bearable for Tyre and Sidon on the day of judgment than for you.

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Desiring to see a miracle, I asked GOD to do some of the stuff I read about. “Part a river” or “Heal ‘this” specific person” or “Heal my eyes.” I wanted to see GOD in action. I was met with silence.

• There were times I did not have faith in GOD.
• There were times I wanted GOD to prove HIMSELF to me.
• There were times I wanted to do my own thing and seeing a miracle may not have changed me.

Looking back I can see my lack of maturity in how I thought of GOD. I figured HE was not as much of a GOD if I could not see the stuff “I” wanted to see. Fortunately for me GOD works differently.

• GOD performs miracles on a daily basis; I need to open my eyes to what is going on around me.
• GOD shows me HIS power each and every day; I need to be willing to accept what HE is showing me.
• GOD speaks to me every day; I need to have a willing heart to hear what HE has to say.

“Give”, “Forgive”, “Pray” or “Go” are words I often hear and ignore along with many others. GOD tends to tell me things that would benefit HIS kingdom and I ignore what HE says because I am too busy with “my” stuff. I mean what about me, is my pout.

GOD forgives my selfish times too. HE simply wants me to see HIS miracles and repent.

• Are you trying to make GOD prove HIMSELF?
• Is your faith based on what you can see?
• Will you stop looking and start paying attention to who GOD is bringing to you?

You Will Be Recognized

Matthew 7: ¹⁵ “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. ¹⁶ By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? ¹⁷ Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. ¹⁸ A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. ¹⁹ Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. ²⁰ Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.

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Lying had become a habit to “fit in.” Whatever the subject, I could come up with a story that showed I had either done it, or known someone who did. Then one of my lying friends said something profound about himself… “I’m lying so much that I had to ask myself, what do I have to gain by this particular lie?”

• Many times I have bared bad fruit.
• Many times I have tried to fit in rather than stand out for good.
• Many times I have desired to be what the crowd wanted me to be and I was on a road to destruction.

Nervous and directionless I placed “fitting in” over GOD’s path. Soon I became the center of attention but to what end? When I finally turned back to GOD, “my” crowd looked at me like I was living yet another lie. BUT GOD saw something different.

• GOD showed me that it is never too late to bear good fruit.
• GOD explained to me that I can stop baring bad fruit and start baring HIS gracious fruit.
• GOD endeared to me that HIS fruit is much better than the world’s fruit.

“Okay LORD I will follow YOUR ways” was my step towards maturity. It took some practice and I failed over and over, but eventually GOD gave me the courage to tell the truth. Once I bared my faults I bared good fruit and GOD was well pleased.

• How are you recognized?
• Do people see GOD when they see you or do they only see you?
• Can you stop trying to bear selfish fruit and seek GOD’s amazing fruit?

What to Live By

Habakkuk 2: ⁴ “See, the enemy is puffed up;
    his desires are not upright—
    but the righteous person will live by his faithfulness

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“You are very good at what you do” someone said to me. “I am” I thought to myself. I “deserve” a raise and a promotion. I did not put my feet on the person’s desk physically, but I did with my words. “When will I be next in line for a higher position?” I said.

• There have been times when I have thought “more highly” of myself.
• There have been times when I have felt I am “better” than “that” person.
• There have been times when I have believed the words of flattery and let them go to my head.

After getting the promotion I soon realized this was not enough. I mean my boss was asking me all the questions. Shouldn’t “I” be the boss? I took classes on how to get to the next level and after a while I did become the boss, only after a lot of people were fired! Good riddance! Or was it?

• GOD wants me to walk humbly with HIM.
• GOD desires that I live for HIM and not for the job.
• GOD wants me to follow HIS ways and live by HIS faithfulness.

Instead of becoming a repellent, GOD wants me to be a draw to many. HE wants me to place my sinful desires at HIS feet and ask “Do YOU want me to have this?” and allow HIS answer to be “No!” HE wants me to treat everyone with respect and allow HIS humility to be my guide.

Faithfulness to GOD is the creed I need to follow. It should not matter how high I climb as long as I have GOD guiding me. GOD removes my arrogance and replaces it with HIS wisdom.

• Do you have a deserving attitude?
• Do you believe you should be treated better?
• Do you think you can rob or take whatever you desire?
• Can you stop thinking more highly of yourself and allow GOD to humble your ways?

Dedicated to the robber who attacked one of my daughter’s. – GOD forgives

Collecting Trophies

Ezekiel 28: The word of the Lord came to me: ² “Son of man, say to the ruler of Tyre, ‘This is what the Sovereign Lord says:

“‘In the pride of your heart
    you say, “I am a god;
I sit on the throne of a god
    in the heart of the seas.”
But you are a mere mortal and not a god,
    though you think you are as wise as a god.
³ Are you wiser than Daniel?
    Is no secret hidden from you?
⁴ By your wisdom and understanding
    you have gained wealth for yourself
and amassed gold and silver
    in your treasuries.
⁵ By your great skill in trading
    you have increased your wealth,
and because of your wealth
    your heart has grown proud.

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Twelve out of a possible three hundred was my first bowling score, but at the end of the season I was “most improved” and received a trophy. Soon I got accustomed to winning trophies in bowling and wanted trophies in other areas of my life. I received awards in school and moved onto work where I received numerous awards and accolades. “I am all that” I thought to myself. I better go in and demand a raise and promotion. I mean the company would stop without “me.”

• There were times I have bought into the accolades.
• There were times I have believed in “my” abilities.
• There were times I have thought more of myself than I should.

Whenever I believe in the team of “me” I seem to get in trouble. I mean after a while others can’t do things as good as I can. Soon I start thinking they can’t do things right at all. Pride rises before the fall. BUT GOD can head the fall off.

• GOD says to me “I AM willing to forgive you if you turn away from your pride.”
• GOD says to me “I AM your creator.”
• GOD says to me “I AM the ONE who saves, the ONE who has life, the ONE who owns everything.”

“My” abilities are not mine at all, they are simply borrowed like clothes from a neighbor. Any accomplishment I achieve needs to have GOD mentioned. In fact, anything I do needs GOD’s permission; otherwise I will not be successful. GOD can stop my pride as long as I point to HIM.

• Do you have trouble letting others do for you?
• Do you think “that” person cannot do anything right in your eyes?
• Will you stop letting your pride blind you and allow GOD to open your eyes?
• Can you lower your expectations of others and raise your need for GOD higher?
• Will you sop your pride today and humble yourself before GOD?