Love Cover

Love Cover

1 Peter 4: ⁷ The end of all things is near. You must be self-controlled and alert, to be able to pray. ⁸ Above everything, love one another earnestly, because love covers over many sins. ⁹ Open your homes to each other without complaining. ¹⁰ Each one, as a good manager of God's different gifts, must use for the good of others the special gift he has received from God. ¹¹ Those who preach must preach God's messages; those who serve must serve with the strength that God gives them, so that in all things praise may be given to God through Jesus Christ, to whom belong glory and power forever and ever. Amen.

 

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Tired of living a lie, I decided to tell the truth. I did not have much work experience and I lied to a person about my age so perhaps, I could gain more respect. But that would lead to other lies that I could not back up. I told the truth and the person said. “I knew how old you are and I want you on my team. I appreciate you telling me the truth”

 

• My lie was excused.
• My lie was noticed and addressed.
• My lie was forgiven, but I could not move forward on the path of lying.

 

Peter continues with some deep doctrine, but makes it practical. He starts off with a very shocking statement, “The end of all things is near.” JESUS had fulfilled all of the prophecies and there was none left, other than the statement that JESUS would return. Until then, Peter provides a practical approach to living.

 

My Observations

• Approaching family, friends, neighbors and acquaintances with love covers my sins and theirs.
• Opening up my home to help people should be done without me complaining.
• Leveraging the “special gift” GOD has given me should be used for the good of others.

 

Sin causes problems in my life. I mean, when I lied, cheated and stole, I did not get far. In fact I found myself with more problems that required more lying, cheating and stealing. I needed help. Fortunately for me, JESUS covered my sins. Like a heavy cover over a flame, the sting of sin is doused out by the shed blood of JESUS.

 

Since I believe in HIM being raised from the dead, I am saved from eternal separation from GOD’s love. This is Good News! I can now use my GOD given gifts to speak about GOD and live for HIM with excitement and power. I praise GOD in all thing.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer mention being “self-controlled and alert?”
• Have you ever gotten so worried that you were unable to pray?
• Will you relook at your current situation with love to see where you can cover for someone or where you need to be covered?
• Will you praise GOD after showing love today?

Not Afraid of Anyone

Not Afraid of Anyone

1 Peter 3: ¹³ Who will harm you if you are eager to do what is good? ¹⁴ But even if you should suffer for doing what is right, how happy you are! Do not be afraid of anyone, and do not worry. ¹⁵ But have reverence for Christ in your hearts, and honor him as Lord. Be ready at all times to answer anyone who asks you to explain the hope you have in you,

 

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Afraid of bullies, I planned my route to school. I could avoid specific people if I went down certain blocks. But as I grew up, I was more confident to tell one of them about CHRIST. “Would you send out a message of faith-based encouragement?” was the question posed to me later in life. “No” was the answer. In the back of my mind I wondered “What would the higher ups, who don’t believe in GOD, think?”

 

• I was afraid to show my relationship with CHRIST because I wanted a title.
• I was trying to keep powerful bullies, who eventually lost their positions, pleased so I could get ahead.
• I was willing to hide my relationship with CHRIST to appease people who could care less about GOD.

 

Peter attempted to give encouragement to those “Chosen” believers who were scattered to many countries because of their belief in JESUS. They were ousted and sought after to be killed because of their belief. He tells all believers to “be ready.”

 

My Observations:

• GOD wants me to not be ashamed of my relationship with JESUS.
• Overcoming fear of relating to JESUS was a huge hurdle I needed to cross so I could be honest in what I do.
• Being ready to explain hope should be top of mind each day.

 

Perception is a friend or a foe. I mean, trying to be one way in front of people to please them when I should be bold for JESUS causes me to live in an unfruitful way. But the problem is when I try to be bold for CHRIST, worldly people get mad and may even try to harm me.

 

GOD sees all situations and rewards me when I am bold for HIM. HE doesn’t put me in bad situations all the time. HE simply wants me to “do what is good” so people who do not believe in JESUS, will ask. “why do you have so much hope?” I gladly am ready with an answer.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer urge the readers to “be ready?”
• Has anyone approached you about hope?
• Have you lost hope and are not showing the light and salt GOD has given you?
• Will you ask GOD for that bold hope that brings people back to HIM so you can be used for HIS purpose today?

Thoughts to Words

Thoughts to Words

James 3: My friends, not many of you should become teachers. As you know, we teachers will be judged with greater strictness than others. ² All of us often make mistakes. But if a person never makes a mistake in what he says, he is perfect and is also able to control his whole being. ³ We put a bit into the mouth of a horse to make it obey us, and we are able to make it go where we want. ⁴ Or think of a ship: big as it is and driven by such strong winds, it can be steered by a very small rudder, and it goes wherever the pilot wants it to go. ⁵ So it is with the tongue: small as it is, it can boast about great things.

 

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Saying something funny had become a skill of mine. I could say something to make people chuckle, but this day I couldn’t. I tried again and received no laughter. I realized I was trying to make people laugh when I should have been listening to why they were crying.

 

• I could not control what I was saying.
• I spoke first before thinking about what I was saying.
• I used my words to say whatever pleased me, rather than what was needed to be said.

 

James addressed mindfulness of what people say. He is not speaking about being politically correct, rather providing a warning to those who desire to be a teacher for JESUS. This important declaration requires control of what is being said. He then provides a continuum that ranges from total imperfection to someone who perfectly controls themselves in what they say.

 

My Observations:

• My thoughts may not be suitable to share, so GOD gives me self-control to keep my thoughts to myself.
• Words are extremely powerful, so GOD wants me to use them with wisdom.
• What I say can lift people up or tear them down, so GOD wants me to choose encouragement when teaching.

 

Being mindful of what I say is important. I mean, when I am hurt, I think of awful things to say and do. But when I am healed, GOD provides wonderful words for me to say to encourage people and to assist in his or her growth.

 

Being able to control my words begins with my thoughts. If I am in a very negative environment, I may pick up negative words that could eventually penetrate my heart. After a while, I find myself speaking negatively. BUT GOD can enter my heart and place HIS love inside. This way, I can speak to ensure others are encouraged. I am glad GOD is willing to guide my words.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer warn those who desire to be teachers of JESUS?
• Have you ever said discouraging words in an argument or in a group of gossipers?
• Will you consider examining your thoughts to see if they are negatively opposing GOD’s kingdom so HE can give you words of encouragement to help others today?

Anytime, Anywhere

Anytime, Anywhere

2 Timothy 4: In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and because he is coming to rule as King, I solemnly urge you ² to preach the message, to insist upon proclaiming it (whether the time is right or not), to convince, reproach, and encourage, as you teach with all patience. 

 

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After hearing the message “Preach the Gospel of JESUS” I was excited as I sat in church. But the next day, it became difficult. I was at work so I talked about work stuff all day. Then when I left I went to the gym and we talked about body parts and ogled at the opposite sex. Soon it was the weekend and I had to have a minute to myself right? I went out with friends to bars.

 

• I did not see a time when it was right to speak about JESUS.
• I could not see a place where it was right to speak about JESUS.
• I felt awkward speaking about JESUS so I kept the message to myself.

 

Paul urges Timothy to “preach the message” and to “insist” that the message be preached by everyone. He then gave the value of preaching the Gospel. It can be used to convince, reproach and encourage. In other words, it is appropriate for all situations.

 

My Observations

• How I live my life will determine how much I speak about JESUS.
• GOD wants me ready to speak about JESUS, anytime, anywhere.
• The HOLY SPIRIT should determine whether it is appropriate to speak about JESUS.

 

Fear, shame and doubt cause me to shut my mouth when it comes to JESUS. I mean, when I am in the middle of sin, I feel I can’t speak about JESUS, so I wait. When I am scared and facing difficult times, I feel I can’t speak about JESUS, so I wait. When I face new people or I am at work or I am doing a business deal I fear messing up and I feel I can’t speak about JESUS, so I wait.

 

I then find myself never, ever speaking about JESUS. I then hope someone else will do it or maybe I can be “good” enough that my example will show JESUS without ever needing to say a word. But this is counter to this command “preach the message and insist upon proclaiming it. Satan wants me fearing, shamed and doubting so I will not speak about JESUS because he knows it is powerful. I gladly put aside my fear, shame and doubt to speak about JESUS, especially when I feel it is not the right time.

 

Challenge

• Do you feel the sense of urgency from the writer?
• Have you ever felt ill-equipped, shamed or inappropriate to speak about JESUS?
• When will you use actual words to “proclaim” HIS worthiness?
• Will you let GOD help you with your fear, shame and doubt so you can be used by HIM to preach the message of JESUS to many today?

Entrusted

Entrusted

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

My Observations

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

 

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

 

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

 

Challenge

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

Let It Out

Let It Out

Colossians 4: ¹⁵ Give our best wishes to the believers in Laodicea and to Nympha and the church that meets in her house. ¹⁶ After you read this letter, make sure that it is read also in the church at Laodicea. At the same time, you are to read the letter that the believers in Laodicea will send you. ¹⁷ And tell Archippus, “Be sure to finish the task you were given in the Lord's service.”
 
May God's grace be with you.

¹⁸ With my own hand I write this: Greetings from Paul Do not forget my chains!

 
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Stepping around the party, I was having “fun.” I shouted at the top of my lungs boastful chants along with the members of the group I joined. I proudly wore my group affiliation letters on my chest and mentioned the group when I could. One day, someone asked me to go to church. I did not want people to know I followed JESUS, because I was having too much “fun.”

 

• I wanted to do what I wanted to do and rely on JESUS for whatever HE was supposed to do.
• I was embarrassed about the things I said and did, so I chose to not mention JESUS.
• It was easy to shout what other people expected versus what people needed to hear.

 

In chains and physically wounded, Paul pens this letter. He was not ashamed of his affiliation with JESUS. In fact, he was imprisoned because of his beliefs. Only the king was supposed to be spoken about in the manner Paul spoke of the “King of kings.” He wanted everyone to know exactly what was on his mind so he wrote his message down.

 

My Observations

• GOD’s message should be mentioned as often as possible from me.
• I should not be ashamed of mentioning JESUS in any circle of people.
• GOD wants to be the priority in my life.

 

JESUS gave it all to me. I mean HE took embarrassing insults, temptation and beatings for me. HE then decided to be murdered for me so I could live. HE was raised from the dead with all power. This is great news! Unfortunately there are times when I do not want to mention HIM.

 

Either groups I join or jobs I work at, deter me from wanting to speak about JESUS. Don’t get me wrong, groups and jobs are not the problem, rather my choice to not mention JESUS is the root of the issue. GOD wants me and everyone who believes in JESUS to mention HIM often and remember HIM daily. I gladly say JESUS is LORD!

 

Challenge

• What instructions does the writer give and why?
• Have you ever had some good news or bad news and told many people about it?
• Have you ever been embarrassed to mention JESUS or that you follow HIM?
• Will you mention JESUS out loud or written to someone today?

Assurance

Assurance

Ephesians 1: ¹³ And you also became God's people when you heard the true message, the Good News that brought you salvation. You believed in Christ, and God put his stamp of ownership on you by giving you the Holy Spirit he had promised. ¹⁴ The Spirit is the guarantee that we shall receive what God has promised his people, and this assures us that God will give complete freedom to those who are his. Let us praise his glory!

 

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Startled by a loud noise I ran to my parents. I clung onto the leg of one then the other. After investigation, they said to me calmly, “There is nothing to worry about.” It took a little while, but I could go on playing.

 

• I get startled by troubles.
• I get shaken up by bad news.
• I get scared, worried and doubtful when things seem to be going “wrong.”

 

After facing major difficulties, Paul sensed the people needed a word of encouragement. He had face major opposition from the church leaders, regarding following GOD. The murderers of JESUS led the church, making people fear for their lives. Assurance was needed.

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to have peace.
• GOD wants me to know the truth.
• GOD wants me to praise HIS glory for setting me free.

 

Heard. Believed. Received. This three-step process gives me assurance that the promises of GOD are sealed up for me. I can do as I please. BUT GOD reigns me in because HE placed the HOLY SPIRIT inside me to guide me away from things that may harm me.

 

I would choose the wrong path all the time. But the HOLY SPIRIT whispers, “Forgive” and “Love those who hate you” and “Serve ‘that’ person.” Recognizing that I am GOD’s possession, I surrender to the SPIRIT. I am glad I can have assurance in all of HIS promises for me!

 

Challenge

• Have you ever questioned GOD’s existence or why JESUS had to die or some other doubt about HIM?
• Have you also feared something or worried?
• How do you feel when you read the writer’s words?
• Will you rest assured that GOD loves you dearly and has a great plan for you, full of HIS promises that completely give you freedom today?

Seeking Approval

Seeking Approval

2 Corinthians 10: ¹⁵ So we do not boast about the work that others have done beyond the limits God set for us. Instead, we hope that your faith may grow and that we may be able to do a much greater work among you, always within the limits that God has set. ¹⁶ Then we can preach the Good News in other countries beyond you and shall not have to boast about work already done in someone else's field.

 

¹⁷ But as the scripture says, “Whoever wants to boast must boast about what the Lord has done.” ¹⁸ For it is when the Lord thinks well of us that we are really approved, and not when we think well of ourselves.

 

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“This is really messed up” I thought to myself. I turned in my work and explained that I really did not understand the assignment very well. To my surprise I did better on the assignment than I thought. It turned out that other people did not understand the assignment either.

 

• I did not like to be evaluated.
• I did not like being told to correct my work.
• I did not like seeking approval on things I could not understand or control.

 

Paul concludes explaining his personal appeal to the people to follow JESUS. He tells everyone to “boast about what the LORD has done” to avoid pointing at their own accomplishments. He explains that the LORD’s approval is the only true approval.

 

My Observations

• Some of the things I think I do for the LORD I really do for the approval of humans.
• Some of the things I think I do for humans were really done for the LORD.
• Only GOD knows what I have done in sincerity for HIM and HE will reward me based on HIS measure.

 

Is donating a huge sum of money greater than giving a thirsty person a cup of water? I don’t know. BUT GOD says “And if you give even a cup of cold water to one of the least of MY followers, you will surely be rewarded.” Motive and sincerity will always be questioned by another human. BUT GOD is the only one who has the rewards.

 

HE sees when I fight my sin and surrender “my” way to do something HE wants me to do to grow HIS kingdom. Boasting about what JESUS did for me seems to be the only way of gaining the approval GOD, I gladly give up pointing to me so others’ “faith may grow” in the LORD.

 

Challenge

• What approval do you think the writer was seeking in order to keep preaching the Good News in other countries?
• Have you ever felt like you were seeking approval from humans who have already wrongfully judged you?
• Will you grow your faith in GOD and know HE has already approved you to boast about JESUS today?

Wealthy

Wealthy

2 Corinthians 8: ⁵ It was more than we could have hoped for! First they gave themselves to the Lord; and then, by God's will they gave themselves to us as well. ⁶ So we urged Titus, who began this work, to continue it and help you complete this special service of love. ⁷ You are so rich in all you have: in faith, speech, and knowledge, in your eagerness to help and in your love for us. And so we want you to be generous also in this service of love.

 

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“Want to play?” was the question posed to me. “Play what?” was my response. We were outside and had no games, money or toys. We looked around and found some popsicle sticks. A neighbor was washing his car, causing a stream near the curb in which we raced our sticks. We laughed, talked and played.

 

Later in life I accumulated money. I had no time for talking or playing because I was working long hours. I worried about bills, vacations, houses, cars, and a long list material possessions.

 

• Somewhere I had lost focus on what “wealth” was.
• I thought having no money was the problem.
• I believed that having a lot of money would reduce my problems.

 

Paul writes about how “rich” the people were, but his list is strange. He talked about a portfolio most people would scoff at. He mentioned faith, speech, knowledge and eagerness to help.

 

My Observations

• My love of money is the root of all kinds of evil in me.
• GOD wants me to be wealthy in faith, speech about JESUS, curiosity to know HIM and eagerness to help others seek HIM.
• GOD wants me to value serving others who follow HIM, especially those who are persecuted because of HIM.

 

Wealth is a term thrown around as something to acquire. But if the wealth causes division, arguments, pain or mistrust, then what good is having a lot of it? GOD wants me wealthy on the inside by accepting the HOLY SPIRIT.

 

HIS leading shows me when I am being greedy, overly self-protective and a slave to the god of sustenance. Generosity is felt by those who believe in CHRIST. I am grateful for the many who have poured out their service of love on me.

 

Challenge

• What riches does the writer list?
• Does comparing yourself to others make you, or them feel bad?
• How wealthy in faith, speech about JESUS and knowledge of GOD do you feel?
• Will you reconsider what true wealth is by seeking what GOD wants you to and surrendering anything that blinds you from HIS rewards today?

Learn and Be Encouraged

 

Learn and Be Encouraged

1 Corinthians 14: ²⁹ Two or three who are given God's message should speak, while the others are to judge what they say. ³⁰ But if someone sitting in the meeting receives a message from God, the one who is speaking should stop. ³¹ All of you may proclaim God's message, one by one, so that everyone will learn and be encouraged. ³² The gift of proclaiming God's message should be under the speaker's control, ³³ because God does not want us to be in disorder but in harmony and peace.

 

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My learning style requires a hands on approach. I have to do the thing I am learning, then the explanations make sense. I can watch someone, but there is nothing better than doing it. Sometimes I get nervous when I have to do something hard or unfamiliar. But wonderful people help stretch me into doing more.

 

• Speaking about the love of GOD is for everyone.
• Encouraging people helps me learn about GOD.
• Proclaiming GOD’s message is not a solo activity.

 

Paul expresses the need for order in gatherings. He urges speakers to tell the truth, otherwise the group will judge what is said. But then he says something I am not familiar with. He suggests that “everyone” proclaim GOD’s message to personally learn and be encouraged.

 

My Observation

• GOD wants me to practice proclaiming HIS message.
• GOD wants me to learn about HIM by experiencing explaining HIS love.
• GOD wants me to be encouraged so HE allows me to speak about JESUS even though I am a sinner.

 

Explaining how JESUS loves me in spite of my sins encourages me and the person or people I am speaking to. I bet I could chart when I was discouraged and I would see that I was not speaking about JESUS’ love during those times.

 

Proclaiming GOD’s message is not only about HIM. HE is so full of love that all who speak about HIM or receive HIS Word, will be encouraged and grow in love. I am glad that I am adopted into the family and now I can learn and be encouraged about the love of JESUS.

 

Challenge

• What do you notice about the statement “all of you may proclaim GOD’s message?”
• Do you feel it is someone else’s job to proclaim the message of GOD?
• If you are nervous about speaking about JESUS, can you start small and speak to one person?
• Will you accept the challenge of learning about JESUS and proclaiming HIS love as a way to become encouraged the rest of your life?

Why do it?

Why do it?

1 Corinthians 9: ¹⁵ But I haven't made use of any of these rights, nor am I writing this now in order to claim such rights for myself. I would rather die first! Nobody is going to turn my rightful boast into empty words! ¹⁶ I have no right to boast just because I preach the gospel. After all, I am under orders to do so. And how terrible it would be for me if I did not preach the gospel! ¹⁷ If I did my work as a matter of free choice, then I could expect to be paid; but I do it as a matter of duty, because God has entrusted me with this task. ¹⁸ What pay do I get, then? It is the privilege of preaching the Good News without charging for it, without claiming my rights in my work for the gospel.

 

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After punching out on Thursday, a feeling of dread came over me. I was supposed to be relieved because it was the weekend, but I knew I had to return to work on Sunday. “The only reason I cleaned toilets was because of the money” I said to myself.

 

• Getting a degree was my motive for finishing school.
• Getting a few dollars was my motive for being a janitor.
• Getting training and certifications was my motive for increasing my salary.

 

Paul speaks about the right to be paid for speaking about the Good News of JESUS. He did not exercise this right, though he could. Instead he called it a “privilege” because GOD entrusted him with this task.

 

• GOD wants me to give people the Good News of JESUS.
• GOD wants me to be excited that HE trusts me to speak about JESUS.
• GOD wants me to be honored at the privilege of speaking about JESUS.

 

Being able to speak about JESUS is no boasting matter. GOD has given me an order to speak about HIS SON whenever and wherever I can. Paid or unpaid, it is a privilege that should not be taken lightly.

 

When I am motivated by “getting” I spend all kinds of time, money and effort to be what humans expect. But when I am focused on “giving”, GOD gets excited because HE has entrusted me with this honor. I gladly speak about JESUS, paid or unpaid.

 

• Is your life centered around what you can “get” out of it?
• Are your dreams and aspirations focused on what you should be “getting?”
• Will you ask GOD to guide you into what you can “give” instead of what you can “get” today?

Living Example

Living Example

1 Corinthians 4: ¹⁴ I write this to you, not because I want to make you feel ashamed, but to instruct you as my own dear children. ¹⁵ For even if you have ten thousand guardians in your Christian life, you have only one father. For in your life in union with Christ Jesus I have become your father by bringing the Good News to you. ¹⁶ I beg you, then, to follow my example. ¹⁷ For this purpose I am sending to you Timothy, who is my own dear and faithful son in the Christian life. He will remind you of the principles which I follow in the new life in union with Christ Jesus and which I teach in all the churches everywhere.

 

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“How To” videos were not as accessible at the time. I was trying my hand at making furniture from scratch. I asked my uncle for advice. He had won many contests for making furniture and owned a thriving restoration business. I carefully listened to his advice and completed the furniture.

 

• There have been many people who have given me some great advice.
• There have been many people who have shown me how to do things right.
• There have been many people who have been great examples for what I wanted to do.

 

Paul likens himself to a “Father” who has given birth to those who believe in JESUS as their Savior. He brought the Good News to many people and they believed. They became his children and he urged them to “follow his example” to do the same. Spread the “Good News” and become a living example.

 

• GOD wants me to spread the Good News of JESUS’ resurrection.
• GOD wants me to go and make disciples out of many nations.
• GOD wants me to become a parent to many people who believe in JESUS.

 

Being an example of JESUS is great! I mean, I don’t have to be perfect because HE was and is. HE was the one who died for my sins and all I have to do is point people to HIM for forgiveness. My imperfection, flaws and failures draw people to HIM rather than repel.

 

When I admit I am a sinner versus trying to pretend I do not sin, I end up with children who believe in GOD. I am glad GOD put so many living examples of HIS followers in my life.

 

• Do you have an example of a follower of JESUS?
• Do you admire people because of how he or she follow JESUS?
• Will you become a living example of how to spread the Gospel of JESUS today so you may have many children in the Kingdom of GOD?

Who put you in charge?

 

Who put you in charge?

1 Corinthians 4: You should think of us as Christ's servants, who have been put in charge of God's secret truths. ² The one thing required of such servants is that they be faithful to their master. ³ Now, I am not at all concerned about being judged by you or by any human standard; I don't even pass judgment on myself. ⁴ My conscience is clear, but that does not prove that I am really innocent. The Lord is the one who passes judgment on me. ⁵ So you should not pass judgment on anyone before the right time comes. Final judgment must wait until the Lord comes; he will bring to light the dark secrets and expose the hidden purposes of people's minds. And then all will receive from God the praise they deserve.

 

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After I realized I was not living as I should, I started reading the Bible more and learning what it had to say. When I found a truth that I should live, I immediately told others. But one day someone said “Who put you in charge?” My approach was pretty harsh.

 

• There have been times when I had the best intentions but my delivery was not the best.
• There have been times when I wanted to help, but the way I helped seemed harsh.
• There have been times when I thought I was serving when in reality I was judging.

 

Paul explains that anyone who speaks about JESUS, needs to be faithful. Judging someone else’s intentions is not the main goal and should be left to JESUS.

 

• GOD wants me to be faithful to follow JESUS.
• GOD wants me to be careful not to judge.
• GOD wants me to keep my conscience clear, but know I am a sinner who need to be forgiven.

 

When GOD made me, HE wanted me to speak highly of JESUS. I believe everyone is made to do the same. But some will not. GOD chose to use humans to spread HIS Good News of JESUS being our Savior.

 

I can say this with a clear conscience, knowing all my actions will be judged. Some will be burned up and some will stay. I am glad GOD enables me to be dependable enough to speak HIS name.

 

• Do you feel like falling away from CHRIST?
• Are you judging someone today?
• Will you remain faithful to GOD and follow HIS ways and drop any judgement you may have of others today?

Look at the Dust

 

Look at the Dust

1 Corinthians 1: ²⁶ Now remember what you were, my friends, when God called you. From the human point of view few of you were wise or powerful or of high social standing. ²⁷ God purposely chose what the world considers nonsense in order to shame the wise, and he chose what the world considers weak in order to shame the powerful. ²⁸ He chose what the world looks down on and despises and thinks is nothing, in order to destroy what the world thinks is important. ²⁹ This means that no one can boast in God's presence. ³⁰ But God has brought you into union with Christ Jesus, and God has made Christ to be our wisdom. By him we are put right with God; we become God's holy people and are set free. ³¹ So then, as the scripture says, “Whoever wants to boast must boast of what the Lord has done.”

 

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Seeing the car this person drove sparked our conversation. It was a very expensive car. I watched his mannerisms on stage and noticed what he did to prepare to get on stage. I took mental notes so I could be just like him when I grew up.

 

• There have been many people I looked at so I could become like them.
• There have been many people I have watched so I could learn how to be “successful.”
• There have been many people I have followed so I could gain their “wisdom.”

 

Paul points out something strange regarding important people. He mentions that the world sees people different than GOD. What the world sees as “important”, GOD will destroy. HE will do this with unconventional methods.

 

• GOD wants me to know I am special to HIM and I am not overlooked.
• GOD wants me to know HE sees people differently than the way the world sees people.
• GOD wants me to know that HE can use people who are overlooked and thrown away.

 

Overlooking people to label others as “important” is a travesty. I mean, GOD may label a person important that the world says is insignificant, then what? That is exactly what happened when JESUS became a human. HE was overlooked as the Messiah and many people did not believe HE was and is GOD.

 

HE then noticed the dusty people and healed them. HE raised up people, who the world would call insignificant, from the dust and placed them over the rich and powerful. I am glad GOD sees me and others different than those who overlook.

 

• Do you feel overlooked?
• Do you think you are insignificant?
• Will you praise GOD for being in the same group as CHRIST, because HE too was overlooked?
• Will you boast about JESUS and what HE did for you today?

Wake Up

Wake Up

Romans 13: ¹¹ You must do this, because you know that the time has come for you to wake up from your sleep. For the moment when we will be saved is closer now than it was when we first believed. ¹² The night is nearly over, day is almost here. Let us stop doing the things that belong to the dark, and let us take up weapons for fighting in the light. ¹³ Let us conduct ourselves properly, as people who live in the light of day—no orgies or drunkenness, no immorality or indecency, no fighting or jealousy. ¹⁴ But take up the weapons of the Lord Jesus Christ, and stop paying attention to your sinful nature and satisfying its desires.

 

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Seeing the huge stack of paper, my work was cut out for me. I was supposed to look at surveys and input customer responses. I started out with high energy, but as the day went on I started getting tired so I took a “quick” nap during lunch.  I woke up well after I was supposed to and now I was behind in my work.

 

• There have been many times when I started out strong, but soon became tired.
• There have been many times when I fell asleep on something I was supposed to be doing.
• There have been many times when I woke up and still had the responsibilities, but only a shorter time to do what I should have been doing all along.

 

“Wake up from your sleep” Paul says. The sleep he is referring to is a lulled sense of security from doing hidden things. He mentions two serious topics, “dark’ and “light.” The day is almost here and the night is almost over. But what am I getting prepared for? What must I do?

 

• GOD wants me to know JESUS is going to return.
• GOD wants me to prepare the world for HIS return.
• GOD wants me to take up HIS “weapons’ starting with the most powerful one called love.

 

Blindness has made me fall asleep. I mean, when I get lost in the concerns of the world, I get worried, doubt GOD and slip into sin for comfort which steals my joy and feeds mu sin nature. Afterwards, I feel hurt, lost and wandering.  My fighting increases and I grab the world’s weapons.

 

Human weapons hurt, kill and destroy, just as Satan wants us to do. BUT GOD has more powerful weapons, one being love. Love heals, protects, grows and raises people up. It was love that raised JESUS from the dead. GOD said “You must do this” and I accept HIS statement.

 

• Do you have a sense of urgency regarding the return of CHRIST?
• Are you so focused on you own sins that CHRIST is not your focus?
• Will you wake up and take up the weapon of love JESUS so generously poured out on you so you can stop paying attention to your sinful desires today?

Bring Good News

 

Bring Good News

Romans 10: ¹⁴ But how can they call to him for help if they have not believed? And how can they believe if they have not heard the message? And how can they hear if the message is not proclaimed? ¹⁵ And how can the message be proclaimed if the messengers are not sent out? As the scripture says, “How wonderful is the coming of messengers who bring good news!” ¹⁶ But not all have accepted the Good News. Isaiah himself said, “Lord, who believed our message?” ¹⁷ So then, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message comes through preaching Christ.

 

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“What a rotten day” I said to myself. I was feeling low and down out about the dead end job which made me notice the gloomy weather, which emphasized my broken umbrella and to top it off… I was broke. My future looked grim as the dean told me the bad news of my failure in school. Can it get any worse?

 

• I have had many bad days.
• I have had many trying days where there was no good news to be found.
• I have had many rough days that seemed even rougher when I heard more bad news.

 

Paul spoke about the Great News which is CHRIST. But now he speaks of a dilemma. How can people believe in CHRIST if there are no messengers sent to proclaim HIM? Paul was trying to convince all who would hear to be the messenger.

 

• GOD wants me to bring Good News to everyone who will hear about JESUS.
• GOD wants me to proclaim HIS SON is the only way to peace.
• GOD wants me to be sent so I can tell people Good News.

 

Good news is in short supply these days. The media’s news seems to show what is wrong with the world every second. When difficult situations arise, it is hard for me to find solace anywhere. BUT GOD has a remedy. HE gave me the “Good News” which is JESUS. HE not only died for me, HE was raised from the dead with all power and authority.

 

There was mor Good News. JESUS sent the HOLY SPIRIT to live inside me to comfort me and give me hope in hopeless situations. To top it off, JESUS went away to build a place for me. HIS imminent return unknown, however, HE brings great rewards to those HE finds following HIM with faith. I am glad JESUS is my Good News!

 

• Are you speaking life or death?
• Do your words pick people up or put people down?
• Will you seek GOD and ask HIM to wipe away your gloom so you can be used as HIS messenger to bring the Good News about JESUS to people HE sends you to today?

True Freedom

 

True Freedom

Acts 28: ²⁸ “Therefore I want you to know that God’s salvation has been sent to the Gentiles, and they will listen!” ²⁹ After he said this, the Jews left, arguing vigorously among themselves. 

 

³⁰ For two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to see him. ³¹ He proclaimed the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ—with all boldness and without hindrance!

 

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Mad at “them”, I refused to go to church. I mean “they” were hypocrites. When I had sex with someone, I could not speak to that person about JESUS. By the time I grew up to forgive the “hypocrites” I had a career that kept me quite busy.

 

I could not proclaim JESUS because the position paid me well and I “assumed” they would not tolerate me teaching about HIM. When I was out of work I was finally free to speak about JESUS.

 

• There were times when life kept me from speaking about GOD.
• There were times when I thought I had a “good’ excuse for not speaking about JESUS.
• There were times when jobs, relationships and worries of life kept me from mentioning the FATHER, SON and the HOLY SPIRIT.

 

Luke finishes his letter to Theophilus, summing up Paul’s discussion. Paul told the church leaders that the Messiah, JESUS, had arrived and because they did not believe HE was and is the Messiah, GOD’s salvation would be spread to the Gentiles. Paul stayed in Rome speaking with boldness about JESUS without hindrance.

 

• GOD wants me to know JESUS as the truth.
• GOD wants me to be set free by the truth.
• GOD wants me to speak boldly about JESUS who is the truth.

 

“The truth will set you free”, JESUS said. HE also says “If the SON sets you free, you will be free indeed.” What does freedom even look like?” I said to myself. I mean, bills piled up, relationships breaking all over the place and jobs hard to find. How can I be free? BUT GOD looks at my situations different.

 

GOD gently forgives me and opens my eyes to HIM as the answer to all my problems. When I grab onto JESUS, HE opens my mouth to thank HIM and to speak boldly about HIM. Soon the excuses dwindle and my fears turn into HIS protection. I am glad JESUS truly has set me free.

 

• Is something keeping you from speaking boldly about JESUS?
• Do you fear what humans will think of you if you spoke about JESUS?
• Will you recognize the bondage you are in and allow GOD to protect you while you speak about JESUS without hindrance today?