7-30-2010
Forgive Yourself by Boyd Bailey
“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” Romans 8:1
Have you forgiven yourself? Have you really forgiven yourself? We know we have forgiven ourselves if we are free from guilt and self-condemnation. Otherwise we are stuck in the crazy cycle of re-living bad decisions that are done and cannot be changed. It is impossible to continually guilt our conscience in order to make up for past mistakes.
When we do not release ourselves from previous indiscretions we try to make up for them by overcompensating in the present. Perhaps you neglected your child in their early years, and now as an older teenager you’ve tried to make up for your absence by enabling their poor decisions. Instead, they need to experience the consequences of bad behavior while they are with you, so they can learn and grow into responsible adults and citizens.
Jesus tells the story of a loving father who allowed his son to hit bottom, and as a consequence the son came to realize reality and he took responsibility: “When he came to his senses, he said, 'How many of my father's hired men have food to spare, and here I am starving to death! I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you (Luke 15:17-18).
Forgiving yourself begins by embracing the truth that your heavenly Father has forgiven you. The grace of God is in abundant supply; no one is beyond its reach. The Lord loves you unconditionally, and He forgives the objects of His love. Has the grace of God seeped deep into your soul, so you know in your heart and mind that you are set free from the guilt and shame of sin? If not, forgive yourself and trust the Lord to make up for lost time.
“In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace” (Ephesians 1:7).
When you forgive yourself, you are able to forgive others. Self-forgiveness is a key to unlocking real relationships. Authentic community with Christ and Christians comes from forgiveness from your heavenly Father, forgiveness from others and forgiveness from yourself. What have you not released yourself from in forgiveness? Lay it at the altar of God’s grace and He will extinguish it with His eternal fire of forgiveness and love.
“This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:38-39). When you love yourself—you forgive yourself!
How can I grow in my love and forgiveness of myself? How does God forgive me?
Related Readings: Psalm 130:3-5; 2 Corinthians 6:1; Colossians 1:14; 1 John 4:7-12
Friday, July 30, 2010
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Die To Multiply
7-29-2010
Die To Multiply by Boyd Bailey
“I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds. The man who loves his life will lose it, while the man who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life.” John 12:24-25
Christ word’s can be counter intuitive and counter cultural. What He says may not make sense on the surface, but with reflection the Holy Spirit reveals His intent. For example, Jesus instructs His followers to experience death in order to multiply life. Each day our Lord calls us to officiate by faith our own funeral of self-superiority and self-interest.
Indeed, death brings life. Christ resurrected life brings life to disciples who die to self. We die to our old way of life to gain the Lord’s new life. We die to carnal living and come alive to Spirit-filled living. We die to earthy affections and enthusiastically embrace heavenly affections. We die to mediocre living and engage in abundant living!
“The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10, NKJV).
If we want to multiply our leadership, we die to doing everything. If we want to multiply our influence, we die to selfish desires. If we want to multiply money, we die to greed. If we want to multiply our energy, we die to laziness. If we want to multiply disciples, we die to unfaithfulness. Jesus modeled the way by giving His life in service and sacrifice:
“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45).
If we want to multiply love, we die to lust. If we want to multiply our character, we die to sin. If we want to multiply our faith, we die to unbelief. Because of the death of Jesus for you—you die daily for Him. Because of the resurrection of Jesus for you—you come alive each day for Him. Your Master’s multiplication tables are based on the calculus of trust in Him. Your death invites His life in you to reign!
“In him you were also circumcised, in the putting off of the sinful nature, not with a circumcision done by the hands of men but with the circumcision done by Christ, having been buried with him in baptism and raised with him through your faith in the power of God, who raised him from the dead” (Colossians 2:11-12).
What does my funeral for self-superiority look like? Is Christ’s life released in my life?
Related Readings: Romans 6:11; 2 Corinthians 4:11; Colossians 2:13;
Die To Multiply by Boyd Bailey
“I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds. The man who loves his life will lose it, while the man who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life.” John 12:24-25
Christ word’s can be counter intuitive and counter cultural. What He says may not make sense on the surface, but with reflection the Holy Spirit reveals His intent. For example, Jesus instructs His followers to experience death in order to multiply life. Each day our Lord calls us to officiate by faith our own funeral of self-superiority and self-interest.
Indeed, death brings life. Christ resurrected life brings life to disciples who die to self. We die to our old way of life to gain the Lord’s new life. We die to carnal living and come alive to Spirit-filled living. We die to earthy affections and enthusiastically embrace heavenly affections. We die to mediocre living and engage in abundant living!
“The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10, NKJV).
If we want to multiply our leadership, we die to doing everything. If we want to multiply our influence, we die to selfish desires. If we want to multiply money, we die to greed. If we want to multiply our energy, we die to laziness. If we want to multiply disciples, we die to unfaithfulness. Jesus modeled the way by giving His life in service and sacrifice:
“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45).
If we want to multiply love, we die to lust. If we want to multiply our character, we die to sin. If we want to multiply our faith, we die to unbelief. Because of the death of Jesus for you—you die daily for Him. Because of the resurrection of Jesus for you—you come alive each day for Him. Your Master’s multiplication tables are based on the calculus of trust in Him. Your death invites His life in you to reign!
“In him you were also circumcised, in the putting off of the sinful nature, not with a circumcision done by the hands of men but with the circumcision done by Christ, having been buried with him in baptism and raised with him through your faith in the power of God, who raised him from the dead” (Colossians 2:11-12).
What does my funeral for self-superiority look like? Is Christ’s life released in my life?
Related Readings: Romans 6:11; 2 Corinthians 4:11; Colossians 2:13;
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Attitude Adjustment
7-28-2010
Attitude Adjustment
“For seven days they celebrated with joy the Feast of Unleavened Bread, because the Lord had filled them with joy by changing the attitude of the king of Assyria, so that he assisted them in the work on the house of God, the God of Israel”. Ezra 6:22
Attitude is everything; it can lift you up or bring you down. It is a barometer of your heart. If your heart is not right, your attitude will suffer. Attitude is critical because it influences your course of action. If your attitude is negative, then your words and your behavior will be too. There is a difference in being a realist about negative circumstances, and living with a chronically bad attitude. Naïve are those who ignore warning signs of trouble, and carry on, oblivious to the storm clouds of sin.
However, your attitude is rooted in who you are in Christ, so there is no need to be fearful, guilty, or insecure. The attitude that Jesus exhibited was one of humility and servant leadership. His attitude reflected submission to His heavenly Father, which resulted in service, generosity, and love for people. Jesus was joyful and hopeful, because He rested in the will of God.
Do not allow others’ bad attitude to influence yours. Be the attitude influencer instead. Greet a frown with a smile, crush criticism with affirmation, and listen patiently until fury loses its steam. A positive attitude will eventually outlast and overpower a negative one. Most of all, pray for those who thrive on negativity. Pray for them to be set free from their hurt, anger, guilt, and insecurity. God has you in their lives to reflect the Almighty and to encourage an attitude adjustment through Him.
God is the genesis of a right attitude, and He is the right attitude sustainer. He wants His attitude to be our attitude. This is why you need a daily attitude alignment from your heavenly Father. Each day, your attitude gets knocked around and abused by life. If left unattended, your attitude will drift into wrong thinking, harsh words, and bad behavior. Self-pity and anger can begin to replace selflessness and forgiveness. With just a little bit of daily tweaking, your attitude stays in line with His. It is subtle, but sometimes attitudes need to be adjusted moment by moment.
Lastly, slow down and pray when you feel your attitude eroding. When you’re in the midst of a bad attitude, don’t make important decisions; the time isn’t right for that. You will regret every decision you make during a time of emotional upheaval. Be patient, and wait until your anger has subsided, your heart is cleansed, and your attitude is objective.
Almighty God is into attitudes that trust Him and reach out to others with compassion and understanding. Open-minded and reasonable attitudes lead to rich and robust relationships. Anyone can be negative; so don’t be anyone, be different. Allow God to shape your attitude on the anvil of His heart. An attitude molded by God is infectious and transforming. Allow Him to change yours, and then trust Him to change another’s. The Bible says, “Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus…” (Philippians 2:5).
Taken from the July 26th reading in Boyd Bailey's Seeking Daily the Heart of God. This 365 day devotional book is a compilation of the reader’s favorites from Wisdom Hunters daily devotional. Andy Stanley says, “I have walked with Boyd for over 20 years and I am definitely wiser for it. You are going to love this book!”
Attitude Adjustment
“For seven days they celebrated with joy the Feast of Unleavened Bread, because the Lord had filled them with joy by changing the attitude of the king of Assyria, so that he assisted them in the work on the house of God, the God of Israel”. Ezra 6:22
Attitude is everything; it can lift you up or bring you down. It is a barometer of your heart. If your heart is not right, your attitude will suffer. Attitude is critical because it influences your course of action. If your attitude is negative, then your words and your behavior will be too. There is a difference in being a realist about negative circumstances, and living with a chronically bad attitude. Naïve are those who ignore warning signs of trouble, and carry on, oblivious to the storm clouds of sin.
However, your attitude is rooted in who you are in Christ, so there is no need to be fearful, guilty, or insecure. The attitude that Jesus exhibited was one of humility and servant leadership. His attitude reflected submission to His heavenly Father, which resulted in service, generosity, and love for people. Jesus was joyful and hopeful, because He rested in the will of God.
Do not allow others’ bad attitude to influence yours. Be the attitude influencer instead. Greet a frown with a smile, crush criticism with affirmation, and listen patiently until fury loses its steam. A positive attitude will eventually outlast and overpower a negative one. Most of all, pray for those who thrive on negativity. Pray for them to be set free from their hurt, anger, guilt, and insecurity. God has you in their lives to reflect the Almighty and to encourage an attitude adjustment through Him.
God is the genesis of a right attitude, and He is the right attitude sustainer. He wants His attitude to be our attitude. This is why you need a daily attitude alignment from your heavenly Father. Each day, your attitude gets knocked around and abused by life. If left unattended, your attitude will drift into wrong thinking, harsh words, and bad behavior. Self-pity and anger can begin to replace selflessness and forgiveness. With just a little bit of daily tweaking, your attitude stays in line with His. It is subtle, but sometimes attitudes need to be adjusted moment by moment.
Lastly, slow down and pray when you feel your attitude eroding. When you’re in the midst of a bad attitude, don’t make important decisions; the time isn’t right for that. You will regret every decision you make during a time of emotional upheaval. Be patient, and wait until your anger has subsided, your heart is cleansed, and your attitude is objective.
Almighty God is into attitudes that trust Him and reach out to others with compassion and understanding. Open-minded and reasonable attitudes lead to rich and robust relationships. Anyone can be negative; so don’t be anyone, be different. Allow God to shape your attitude on the anvil of His heart. An attitude molded by God is infectious and transforming. Allow Him to change yours, and then trust Him to change another’s. The Bible says, “Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus…” (Philippians 2:5).
Taken from the July 26th reading in Boyd Bailey's Seeking Daily the Heart of God. This 365 day devotional book is a compilation of the reader’s favorites from Wisdom Hunters daily devotional. Andy Stanley says, “I have walked with Boyd for over 20 years and I am definitely wiser for it. You are going to love this book!”
Monday, July 26, 2010
Lust
7-27-2010
Lust
I can’t begin to think of the number of times people’s lives have been ruined due to the power of lust. We live in a world where the grass can seem greener on the other side, when in fact it rarely is. People leave certain jobs for what they feel will be a better opportunity, yet they find out the hard way it’s not. In sports, loyalty has been thrown out the window. Years ago you would never see a player leave his team for their arch rival, yet it happens every season now. People chase whatever they feel can bring them the desire they crave at THAT MOMENT.
It’s in THAT MOMENT that we must run from the lust that seems to chase us. The lust Jesus speaks against in Matthew chapter 5 is the lust of the flesh. God creates beautiful people, and the world does all it can to throw those people in our faces. It’s nearly impossible to watch television these days without seeing a scantily dressed individual. What you allow yourself to see, hear, and experience does in fact influence the way you think.
When someone commits adultery, they do so twice. First, they commit adultery in their minds. They picture themselves doing something before they actually do it. Then, the actual physical act of adultery takes place. The key is stopping the mental picture before it takes place. If we control our thoughts, then we will control our actions. Matthew 5:28 says, “But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” Jesus warns us about the danger of simply thinking about another person. It’s perfectly normal to have a natural interest in the opposite sex; the key is to control your thoughts. As you grow in your relationship with Christ, you will learn to see every girl as a sister in Christ, and every man as a brother in Christ. If you see people as an object of your affection, understand the implications that can have if not controlled.
Lust is a very dangerous sin and it’s extremely important to understand the life altering events that can and will occur if lust isn’t treated as a serious issue in your life. Never forget why you fell in love with your partner in the first place. Love them for who they are, and understand that God put you and your spouse (assuming you are married) in each other’s lives for a reason. Find the beauty in each other and never forget the bonds of marriage.
Application:
1.Read Matthew 5:27-30
2.Do you need to change the way you think about someone? Is your significant other the only object of your affection?
Lust
I can’t begin to think of the number of times people’s lives have been ruined due to the power of lust. We live in a world where the grass can seem greener on the other side, when in fact it rarely is. People leave certain jobs for what they feel will be a better opportunity, yet they find out the hard way it’s not. In sports, loyalty has been thrown out the window. Years ago you would never see a player leave his team for their arch rival, yet it happens every season now. People chase whatever they feel can bring them the desire they crave at THAT MOMENT.
It’s in THAT MOMENT that we must run from the lust that seems to chase us. The lust Jesus speaks against in Matthew chapter 5 is the lust of the flesh. God creates beautiful people, and the world does all it can to throw those people in our faces. It’s nearly impossible to watch television these days without seeing a scantily dressed individual. What you allow yourself to see, hear, and experience does in fact influence the way you think.
When someone commits adultery, they do so twice. First, they commit adultery in their minds. They picture themselves doing something before they actually do it. Then, the actual physical act of adultery takes place. The key is stopping the mental picture before it takes place. If we control our thoughts, then we will control our actions. Matthew 5:28 says, “But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” Jesus warns us about the danger of simply thinking about another person. It’s perfectly normal to have a natural interest in the opposite sex; the key is to control your thoughts. As you grow in your relationship with Christ, you will learn to see every girl as a sister in Christ, and every man as a brother in Christ. If you see people as an object of your affection, understand the implications that can have if not controlled.
Lust is a very dangerous sin and it’s extremely important to understand the life altering events that can and will occur if lust isn’t treated as a serious issue in your life. Never forget why you fell in love with your partner in the first place. Love them for who they are, and understand that God put you and your spouse (assuming you are married) in each other’s lives for a reason. Find the beauty in each other and never forget the bonds of marriage.
Application:
1.Read Matthew 5:27-30
2.Do you need to change the way you think about someone? Is your significant other the only object of your affection?
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Anger
5-26-2010
Anger
The two greatest commandments we are given is to LOVE God above everything, and to LOVE your neighbor as yourself. If we could think of a word that implies the opposite of love it could possibly be anger. Jesus gives us strict instructions to rid ourselves of anger not only by the way we act and speak, but also in the way we think.
I’ve been told you will do what you think. If we think angry thoughts, chances are we will speak and act in angry ways eventually. God informs us to control our attitudes. Easier said than done right! I am a very passionate and competitive individual, and if there’s one thing I don’t enjoy, it’s losing. I was reminded years ago about the time I beat a seven year old boy in a game, and my girlfriend at the time couldn’t understand why I wouldn’t let him win. My response was, “I don’t know how to LET someone win!” I’ve grown since then, but I still have room for a lot of growth when it comes to controlling my temper.
As a baseball coach, there are a lot of times when anger wants to take over, and quite honestly it does take over. Though I’ve improved a lot, I still have a ways to go. I look at Jesus as the perfect example of how to act during frustrating times. He is always demonstrating love and patience during the most difficult situations. One of my greatest assets is my transparent honesty; however it can also be one of my greatest weaknesses, as I will say what I am thinking WAY TOO OFTEN. When we can learn to handle tough situations with patient love, Jesus will be glorified. When we handle situations with a humanly emotion, no one wins.
We all get angry at times, so our instruction during these moments is to solve any potential conflict or problem before it becomes a bigger conflict or problem. Matthew 5:25 says, “Settle matters quickly with your adversary.” In other words, the longer you allow a problem or anger to fester within you, the worse it can get over time. Sit down with the person or persons you are having the issue with and talk through the problems in a loving way. Remember, if you are looking for a fight, you are going to get a fight, and NO ONE wins in that situation. If you are looking for a peaceful resolution, you are going to find a peaceful resolution where everyone involves win.
Application:
1.Read Matthew 5:21-26
2.Have you allowed your anger to surface? Do you have angry thoughts? Who do you need to reconcile with so you may look at all people in a loving and peaceful manner?
Anger
The two greatest commandments we are given is to LOVE God above everything, and to LOVE your neighbor as yourself. If we could think of a word that implies the opposite of love it could possibly be anger. Jesus gives us strict instructions to rid ourselves of anger not only by the way we act and speak, but also in the way we think.
I’ve been told you will do what you think. If we think angry thoughts, chances are we will speak and act in angry ways eventually. God informs us to control our attitudes. Easier said than done right! I am a very passionate and competitive individual, and if there’s one thing I don’t enjoy, it’s losing. I was reminded years ago about the time I beat a seven year old boy in a game, and my girlfriend at the time couldn’t understand why I wouldn’t let him win. My response was, “I don’t know how to LET someone win!” I’ve grown since then, but I still have room for a lot of growth when it comes to controlling my temper.
As a baseball coach, there are a lot of times when anger wants to take over, and quite honestly it does take over. Though I’ve improved a lot, I still have a ways to go. I look at Jesus as the perfect example of how to act during frustrating times. He is always demonstrating love and patience during the most difficult situations. One of my greatest assets is my transparent honesty; however it can also be one of my greatest weaknesses, as I will say what I am thinking WAY TOO OFTEN. When we can learn to handle tough situations with patient love, Jesus will be glorified. When we handle situations with a humanly emotion, no one wins.
We all get angry at times, so our instruction during these moments is to solve any potential conflict or problem before it becomes a bigger conflict or problem. Matthew 5:25 says, “Settle matters quickly with your adversary.” In other words, the longer you allow a problem or anger to fester within you, the worse it can get over time. Sit down with the person or persons you are having the issue with and talk through the problems in a loving way. Remember, if you are looking for a fight, you are going to get a fight, and NO ONE wins in that situation. If you are looking for a peaceful resolution, you are going to find a peaceful resolution where everyone involves win.
Application:
1.Read Matthew 5:21-26
2.Have you allowed your anger to surface? Do you have angry thoughts? Who do you need to reconcile with so you may look at all people in a loving and peaceful manner?
Friday, July 23, 2010
God's Plan
7-23-2010
God’s Plan by Boyd Bailey
“For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11
God’s plan is what’s best. It is a good plan. It may not seem like a good plan right now, but God’s plan is good. This apparent contradiction is where it gets confusing. A messy life is not always a fun life. Currently you may be experiencing heartache and hard times. His plan does not seem good in your current circumstance, but God is still good.
Perhaps, your spouse has been unfaithful. God’s plan seems to have taken a detour down a road of disappointment. You lost your home. God’s plan seems wrong. You were ask to resign. God’s plan does not seem fair. Your health is withering away. God’s plan seems premature with its invitation for your homecoming. Every step you take, every choice you make, and every place you go seems to lead toward more confusion and chaos.
So, how can God’s plan be good, prosperous and not harmful? This is a fair question. To answer this question accurately and fairly we need to consider God’s long-term plan. To walk wisely today requires a reminder of hope for tomorrow. It is our future hope with God that inspires us to live for Him today. Wherever Jesus is—there, hope resides. When we have Jesus, we have hope. Hope is heaven’s righteous rope that lifts us out of our despair.
"Oh, that I might have my request, that God would grant what I hope for” (Job 6:8).
Therefore, you can look forward to a better day. But do not miss what God is teaching you today. Hope for tomorrow does not preclude learning from the Lord today. This is all a part of God’s big plan. In the big scheme of God’s plan, there is suffering. Your suffering may even last a lifetime, but this does not cancel out the goodness of God’s plan. Suffering is our springboard into the depths of God’s love and grace.
“Indeed, in our hearts we felt the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead” (2 Corinthians 1:9).
Current challenges are preparation for His prosperity, His hope and His future for you. On the other hand, you may be living large right now. Life looks good. God feels good. His plans seem to be rolling out flawlessly. Use this time to go deeper with Him, because the realities of His plan for you go much deeper than a surface, spiritual sentimentality.
His plan is robust and challenging. You can acquiesce to a plan of lesser consequence, and miss His best. Or, you can trust the Lord and follow hard after Him, even when His plan seems to have gone awry. Indeed, this is not your home. You are on assignment from heaven, so explore and enjoy His eternal exit plan. It is full of prosperity, hope and a future. You can trust God’s providential plan as it works out for the purpose of His will.
“In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will” (Ephesians 1:11).
Is His plan what’s best for me? Am I aligned with the Almighty’s plan for my life?
Related Readings: Proverbs 21:30; Isaiah 14:24; 2 Corinthians 1:17; Hebrews 11:40
Boyd Bailey is the author of Wisdom Hunters daily devotional and two devotional books, Infusion and Seeking Daily the Heart of God
God’s Plan by Boyd Bailey
“For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11
God’s plan is what’s best. It is a good plan. It may not seem like a good plan right now, but God’s plan is good. This apparent contradiction is where it gets confusing. A messy life is not always a fun life. Currently you may be experiencing heartache and hard times. His plan does not seem good in your current circumstance, but God is still good.
Perhaps, your spouse has been unfaithful. God’s plan seems to have taken a detour down a road of disappointment. You lost your home. God’s plan seems wrong. You were ask to resign. God’s plan does not seem fair. Your health is withering away. God’s plan seems premature with its invitation for your homecoming. Every step you take, every choice you make, and every place you go seems to lead toward more confusion and chaos.
So, how can God’s plan be good, prosperous and not harmful? This is a fair question. To answer this question accurately and fairly we need to consider God’s long-term plan. To walk wisely today requires a reminder of hope for tomorrow. It is our future hope with God that inspires us to live for Him today. Wherever Jesus is—there, hope resides. When we have Jesus, we have hope. Hope is heaven’s righteous rope that lifts us out of our despair.
"Oh, that I might have my request, that God would grant what I hope for” (Job 6:8).
Therefore, you can look forward to a better day. But do not miss what God is teaching you today. Hope for tomorrow does not preclude learning from the Lord today. This is all a part of God’s big plan. In the big scheme of God’s plan, there is suffering. Your suffering may even last a lifetime, but this does not cancel out the goodness of God’s plan. Suffering is our springboard into the depths of God’s love and grace.
“Indeed, in our hearts we felt the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead” (2 Corinthians 1:9).
Current challenges are preparation for His prosperity, His hope and His future for you. On the other hand, you may be living large right now. Life looks good. God feels good. His plans seem to be rolling out flawlessly. Use this time to go deeper with Him, because the realities of His plan for you go much deeper than a surface, spiritual sentimentality.
His plan is robust and challenging. You can acquiesce to a plan of lesser consequence, and miss His best. Or, you can trust the Lord and follow hard after Him, even when His plan seems to have gone awry. Indeed, this is not your home. You are on assignment from heaven, so explore and enjoy His eternal exit plan. It is full of prosperity, hope and a future. You can trust God’s providential plan as it works out for the purpose of His will.
“In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will” (Ephesians 1:11).
Is His plan what’s best for me? Am I aligned with the Almighty’s plan for my life?
Related Readings: Proverbs 21:30; Isaiah 14:24; 2 Corinthians 1:17; Hebrews 11:40
Boyd Bailey is the author of Wisdom Hunters daily devotional and two devotional books, Infusion and Seeking Daily the Heart of God
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Law
7-22-2010
Law
The bible is chalked full of law, and some people think Christianity is nothing more than a bunch of rules to be followed. “Don’t do this”, and “do that,” is the common theme when asking someone about the “rules” of the bible. It’s important to understand we are called to live a life of love and obedience. We aren’t supposed to be a bunch of rule followers; we are called to be Christ followers.
When God is IN US, our love and obedience will follow. Legal compliance and following the rules doesn’t make you a Christian, as those acts make people happy. We are put on this earth to love people, but not at the expense of what’s right by God. If your goal is to make people happy, you are missing the purpose of the law of the land in accordance to the bible. God is the sole person you are to please, and when doing so, the right people will also be pleased. The “do’s” and “don’ts” are in place to help us understand the life God wants us to live. Following the rules on the surface means nothing. Being transformed by the biblical principles (laws) will change your life.
There are those that follow the law because they are supposed to, and then there are those that have been transformed, and thus live their lives the right way because it’s who they are! If you follow the laws of Jesus Christ, you will please the one person you need to be concerned with pleasing.
Application:
1. Read Matthew 5:17-20
2.Are you a law follower so you don’t get in trouble, or are you a Christ follower in which obeying the laws of the bible is understood?
Law
The bible is chalked full of law, and some people think Christianity is nothing more than a bunch of rules to be followed. “Don’t do this”, and “do that,” is the common theme when asking someone about the “rules” of the bible. It’s important to understand we are called to live a life of love and obedience. We aren’t supposed to be a bunch of rule followers; we are called to be Christ followers.
When God is IN US, our love and obedience will follow. Legal compliance and following the rules doesn’t make you a Christian, as those acts make people happy. We are put on this earth to love people, but not at the expense of what’s right by God. If your goal is to make people happy, you are missing the purpose of the law of the land in accordance to the bible. God is the sole person you are to please, and when doing so, the right people will also be pleased. The “do’s” and “don’ts” are in place to help us understand the life God wants us to live. Following the rules on the surface means nothing. Being transformed by the biblical principles (laws) will change your life.
There are those that follow the law because they are supposed to, and then there are those that have been transformed, and thus live their lives the right way because it’s who they are! If you follow the laws of Jesus Christ, you will please the one person you need to be concerned with pleasing.
Application:
1. Read Matthew 5:17-20
2.Are you a law follower so you don’t get in trouble, or are you a Christ follower in which obeying the laws of the bible is understood?
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Be The Salt and The Light
7-21-2010
Be the Salt and the Light
I received an email today, and it really hit home with me. To summarize the email, it basically asked the question why. In other words, why does this or that happen, and why do people do this or that. It seems people have lost focus of what we are called to do on this earth as Christ followers.
Matthew 5:13-14 gives us a great analogy of what we are called to do:
“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men. You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.”
I believe too many of us get caught up in playing God. We over analyze, judge, and label people. God doesn’t want us doing any of this. We are called to affect people in a positive way by loving them with the kindness that Christ showed the world. As a Christ follower, people should know it! I am baffled at how many people claim to know Christ, yet their actions would indicate otherwise (I’m guilty of this at times as well). We are called to be a light in the dark world. People need to know you are different by both the words you say, but most importantly by the way you live. Be the salt and light in the lives of EVERY person you come in contact with, not just your close friends and family. Every single one of you has a gift to make an impact in the world for the kingdom of God. Use the gift(s) God’s given you to make an impact. Don’t keep them to yourself, and if you aren’t sure what your gift is, ask someone that knows you. Don’t sell yourself short! Let’s light up this world!
Application:
1.Read Matthew 5:13-14
2.Does your salt have flavor?
3.Is your light shining bright?
Be the Salt and the Light
I received an email today, and it really hit home with me. To summarize the email, it basically asked the question why. In other words, why does this or that happen, and why do people do this or that. It seems people have lost focus of what we are called to do on this earth as Christ followers.
Matthew 5:13-14 gives us a great analogy of what we are called to do:
“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men. You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.”
I believe too many of us get caught up in playing God. We over analyze, judge, and label people. God doesn’t want us doing any of this. We are called to affect people in a positive way by loving them with the kindness that Christ showed the world. As a Christ follower, people should know it! I am baffled at how many people claim to know Christ, yet their actions would indicate otherwise (I’m guilty of this at times as well). We are called to be a light in the dark world. People need to know you are different by both the words you say, but most importantly by the way you live. Be the salt and light in the lives of EVERY person you come in contact with, not just your close friends and family. Every single one of you has a gift to make an impact in the world for the kingdom of God. Use the gift(s) God’s given you to make an impact. Don’t keep them to yourself, and if you aren’t sure what your gift is, ask someone that knows you. Don’t sell yourself short! Let’s light up this world!
Application:
1.Read Matthew 5:13-14
2.Does your salt have flavor?
3.Is your light shining bright?
Monday, July 19, 2010
Risky Risks
7-20-2010
Risky Risks by Boyd Bailey
“The Lord said to Abram, ‘Leave your country, your people and your father’s household and go to the land I will show you.’” Genesis 12:1
Sometimes God asks you to take a risk. Sometimes His requests seem to carry tremendous risk. He may ask you to leave a job. All these years you have labored faithfully in a specific role, and now it appears that He is directing you to a totally different work environment. This is something to take to heart. It is a big deal. It is important that you provide for your family and, yes, you have been effective in your work. But, if God is calling you to this new endeavor, then it is His responsibility to give you the wisdom and ability to carry out His adventurous assignment.
It is normal to be nervous. It is normal to be apprehensive. But, take comfort that God does not lead you to a place where He does not provide for you. Of course His provision may appear to be different than it appeared in the past; nevertheless, He is faithful to those who are obedient to His call. God’s call cannot be ignored. He is consistent and clear when He calls you to an opportunity filled with uncertainty. Let faith be your guide.
Ambiguity can be an asset because it causes you to depend on God. Do not allow fear to cloud your convictions. If He is asking you to get out of the boat, then He will provide an acrylic floor on the water. Great faith accompanies bold obedience. Dance with the one who brought you. Faith has sustained you thus far, and faith will sustain you going forward. Great results normally follow great risk. However, a Holy Spirit- led risk is really no risk at all. God says it, so that settles it.
Still, responding to and implementing the Lord’s bold request can be hard. It is hard to leave family and friends. It is hard to leave the best church in the world. It is hard to leave a familiar environment for one filled with ambivalence and contingency. So, it is OK to struggle with the difficulty of transition. But, do not allow the difficulty to prolong your procrastination. Begin preparing today, so that you can respond to Christ’s call tomorrow.
Indeed, following God’s risky request does not preclude planning. Planning is your friend. Planning is responsible and spiritual. Planning does not exclude faith; rather, it enhances faith. Your faith is more robust when you have a Holy Spirit-crafted plan. So, be careful not to presume on God and become irresponsible through lack of planning. Surround yourself with trusted advisors who can coach you through the planning process. God can bless a mess, but normally He blesses a prayerful plan.
It may take a year or two of intentional planning to be prepared to “pull the trigger” on God’s new and exciting call on your life, but the process of preparation and planning is well worth it. You will learn a lot about yourself and God during this time. Money will become less important and people will become more important.
Your security will flow from your Savior and not from stuff. Your intimacy with your spouse and heavenly Father will go deeper and wider than any other time in the past. God’s risky request is for your best. Because of your obedience, the Kingdom of God will be much better. Heaven’s population will increase because you have decreased. Continue to go with God. Following Christ is really no risk at all!
Taken from the Dose 1 reading in Boyd Bailey’s Infusion . This 90-day devotional book is a compilation of the reader’s favorites from Wisdom Hunters daily devotional . Andy Stanley says, “I have walked with Boyd for over 20 years and I am definitely wiser for it. You are going to love this book!”
Risky Risks by Boyd Bailey
“The Lord said to Abram, ‘Leave your country, your people and your father’s household and go to the land I will show you.’” Genesis 12:1
Sometimes God asks you to take a risk. Sometimes His requests seem to carry tremendous risk. He may ask you to leave a job. All these years you have labored faithfully in a specific role, and now it appears that He is directing you to a totally different work environment. This is something to take to heart. It is a big deal. It is important that you provide for your family and, yes, you have been effective in your work. But, if God is calling you to this new endeavor, then it is His responsibility to give you the wisdom and ability to carry out His adventurous assignment.
It is normal to be nervous. It is normal to be apprehensive. But, take comfort that God does not lead you to a place where He does not provide for you. Of course His provision may appear to be different than it appeared in the past; nevertheless, He is faithful to those who are obedient to His call. God’s call cannot be ignored. He is consistent and clear when He calls you to an opportunity filled with uncertainty. Let faith be your guide.
Ambiguity can be an asset because it causes you to depend on God. Do not allow fear to cloud your convictions. If He is asking you to get out of the boat, then He will provide an acrylic floor on the water. Great faith accompanies bold obedience. Dance with the one who brought you. Faith has sustained you thus far, and faith will sustain you going forward. Great results normally follow great risk. However, a Holy Spirit- led risk is really no risk at all. God says it, so that settles it.
Still, responding to and implementing the Lord’s bold request can be hard. It is hard to leave family and friends. It is hard to leave the best church in the world. It is hard to leave a familiar environment for one filled with ambivalence and contingency. So, it is OK to struggle with the difficulty of transition. But, do not allow the difficulty to prolong your procrastination. Begin preparing today, so that you can respond to Christ’s call tomorrow.
Indeed, following God’s risky request does not preclude planning. Planning is your friend. Planning is responsible and spiritual. Planning does not exclude faith; rather, it enhances faith. Your faith is more robust when you have a Holy Spirit-crafted plan. So, be careful not to presume on God and become irresponsible through lack of planning. Surround yourself with trusted advisors who can coach you through the planning process. God can bless a mess, but normally He blesses a prayerful plan.
It may take a year or two of intentional planning to be prepared to “pull the trigger” on God’s new and exciting call on your life, but the process of preparation and planning is well worth it. You will learn a lot about yourself and God during this time. Money will become less important and people will become more important.
Your security will flow from your Savior and not from stuff. Your intimacy with your spouse and heavenly Father will go deeper and wider than any other time in the past. God’s risky request is for your best. Because of your obedience, the Kingdom of God will be much better. Heaven’s population will increase because you have decreased. Continue to go with God. Following Christ is really no risk at all!
Taken from the Dose 1 reading in Boyd Bailey’s Infusion . This 90-day devotional book is a compilation of the reader’s favorites from Wisdom Hunters daily devotional . Andy Stanley says, “I have walked with Boyd for over 20 years and I am definitely wiser for it. You are going to love this book!”
Sunday, July 18, 2010
What Club?
7-19-2010
What Club?
I had a conversation with a young man about “church” and I was shocked at some of the questions. He asked me what the cost is to go to church, and how do you get in. It was as if he thought going to church was liking joining a club in which you had to be invited in, and the way in was to do certain things for people. As I listened and answered the questions, I couldn’t help but wonder how many others have the same types of questions.
When Jesus spoke, people listened, and when he said, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near,” (Matthew 4:17) his followers wanted to know what they had to do to get in heaven. Can you imagine listening to the savior of the world lay out the behavior and attitudes of the blessed and the fear of loss that sets in when you realize you need to do whatever you can to get in His kingdom!
The title of this devotional is what club? The reason for this title is there isn’t a club! We are all one body, and those of us that accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and savior know where we are going when our life on earth is over. The message Jesus lays out for us is very clear, repent and live a blessed life that honors God. If people on earth would spend one tenth the amount of time living for God as they do trying to satisfy their worldly cravings, imagine how much better our world would be. If you feel you’re too far on the “bad” end of the spectrum, you aren’t! It’s never too late to turn your life around. In fact, a buddy of mine that I haven’t seen in years looked me up at www.loganstout.com and he emailed me the following question, “When did you get so religious!” You see, when he and I were hanging out, God wasn’t rolling off my tongue at all. My response to him was, “my senior year in high school.” God desires for us all to live a blessed life, and in order to do so, live for him and not for the world, and you will receive the riches of heaven!
Application:
1.Read Matthew 5:1-12
2.Do you live a life of blessedness or does your happiness depend upon earthly events? Earthly events will always let you down!
What Club?
I had a conversation with a young man about “church” and I was shocked at some of the questions. He asked me what the cost is to go to church, and how do you get in. It was as if he thought going to church was liking joining a club in which you had to be invited in, and the way in was to do certain things for people. As I listened and answered the questions, I couldn’t help but wonder how many others have the same types of questions.
When Jesus spoke, people listened, and when he said, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near,” (Matthew 4:17) his followers wanted to know what they had to do to get in heaven. Can you imagine listening to the savior of the world lay out the behavior and attitudes of the blessed and the fear of loss that sets in when you realize you need to do whatever you can to get in His kingdom!
The title of this devotional is what club? The reason for this title is there isn’t a club! We are all one body, and those of us that accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and savior know where we are going when our life on earth is over. The message Jesus lays out for us is very clear, repent and live a blessed life that honors God. If people on earth would spend one tenth the amount of time living for God as they do trying to satisfy their worldly cravings, imagine how much better our world would be. If you feel you’re too far on the “bad” end of the spectrum, you aren’t! It’s never too late to turn your life around. In fact, a buddy of mine that I haven’t seen in years looked me up at www.loganstout.com and he emailed me the following question, “When did you get so religious!” You see, when he and I were hanging out, God wasn’t rolling off my tongue at all. My response to him was, “my senior year in high school.” God desires for us all to live a blessed life, and in order to do so, live for him and not for the world, and you will receive the riches of heaven!
Application:
1.Read Matthew 5:1-12
2.Do you live a life of blessedness or does your happiness depend upon earthly events? Earthly events will always let you down!
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Sermon On The Mount
7-16-2010
Sermon on the Mount
The Sermon on the Mount took place on a hillside, where Jesus laid out the “Beatitudes.” In Jesus’ teachings we see what really matters, obedience. We aren’t called to “go through the motions” of Christianity. He doesn’t want us to go to church, sit, sing, pray, and leave. There isn’t a checklist to follow in order to understand and know Christ. The Beatitudes lay out the simple game plan, servant leadership and obedience. Jesus wants REAL people, not a bunch of legalistic/do and say all the right things people. He wants us to be transformed from the inside out.
I truly believe many of us know what to do, and may even be able to give great advice, yet we struggle to follow that same advice ourselves. Others may not have a clue where to turn. Then there are the few that get it. They’ve been transformed and continue to work daily to strive for sanctification (to be Christ like). Wherever you are in your Christian journey, the key is what you do starting NOW. The past is the past and we can’t change that. The great news is God doesn’t want you thinking about the past. He wants us to press onward, and through the grace of God we have the freedom to accept Christ and be forgiven of our sins of the past. Through the gift of salvation, we are made new, so now what?
Jesus instructs the disciples and all Christ followers to understand what they’ve signed up for. Jesus does a great job of under promising and over delivering. He doesn’t say how great life is going to be on earth. In fact he informs his followers of how bad it will be. “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:10). As a Christ follower, you aren’t going to be the norm. Very few have the discipline, faith, understanding, and obedience to truly live the life God’s called us to live. We are all sinners, so in that aspect, none of us live up to the standard. Here’s the key, do everything in your power to avoid the traps of the temporal. In other words, the world creates a selfish, prideful, lustful, self-serving attitude. Christ wants the exact opposite out of us. Live as Jesus did, and you will receive the REAL REWARD. Our lives are so short, yet we crave everything on earth. An eternity in heaven is the ultimate reward, and nothing compares to what we all should look forward to!
Application:
1.Read Matthew 5:1-10
2.As you read the Beatitudes, how do feel about each one of them as you reflect on your life?
Sermon on the Mount
The Sermon on the Mount took place on a hillside, where Jesus laid out the “Beatitudes.” In Jesus’ teachings we see what really matters, obedience. We aren’t called to “go through the motions” of Christianity. He doesn’t want us to go to church, sit, sing, pray, and leave. There isn’t a checklist to follow in order to understand and know Christ. The Beatitudes lay out the simple game plan, servant leadership and obedience. Jesus wants REAL people, not a bunch of legalistic/do and say all the right things people. He wants us to be transformed from the inside out.
I truly believe many of us know what to do, and may even be able to give great advice, yet we struggle to follow that same advice ourselves. Others may not have a clue where to turn. Then there are the few that get it. They’ve been transformed and continue to work daily to strive for sanctification (to be Christ like). Wherever you are in your Christian journey, the key is what you do starting NOW. The past is the past and we can’t change that. The great news is God doesn’t want you thinking about the past. He wants us to press onward, and through the grace of God we have the freedom to accept Christ and be forgiven of our sins of the past. Through the gift of salvation, we are made new, so now what?
Jesus instructs the disciples and all Christ followers to understand what they’ve signed up for. Jesus does a great job of under promising and over delivering. He doesn’t say how great life is going to be on earth. In fact he informs his followers of how bad it will be. “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:10). As a Christ follower, you aren’t going to be the norm. Very few have the discipline, faith, understanding, and obedience to truly live the life God’s called us to live. We are all sinners, so in that aspect, none of us live up to the standard. Here’s the key, do everything in your power to avoid the traps of the temporal. In other words, the world creates a selfish, prideful, lustful, self-serving attitude. Christ wants the exact opposite out of us. Live as Jesus did, and you will receive the REAL REWARD. Our lives are so short, yet we crave everything on earth. An eternity in heaven is the ultimate reward, and nothing compares to what we all should look forward to!
Application:
1.Read Matthew 5:1-10
2.As you read the Beatitudes, how do feel about each one of them as you reflect on your life?
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Freedom In Focus
7-15-2010
Freedom In Focus by Boyd Bailey
“Because the Sovereign LORD helps me, I will not be disgraced. Therefore have I set my face like flint, and I know I will not be put to shame.” Isaiah 50:7
Focus brings freedom, because there is permission to say ‘no’ to good, competing ideas and opportunities. It is out of focus that faith is forged. When Jesus Christ is the focal point for direction and discipline then all other priorities fall into place. Focusing on Him brings to bear heaven’s perspective and resources. A face like flint on Jesus creates freedom to trust and wait on Him. Keep your Savior the spotlight and you will see clearly.
But how can I stay focused on the Lord when life’s distractions tend to dominate my time? How do I remain a fruitful Christian and not be mired down in the mundane? It is essential to first master the fundamentals of honesty, humility, patience and service to others. It is out of living the basic tenets of the Christian life that I can be trusted with more.
“Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much” (Luke 16:10).
Focus brings freedom at work when you assess your activity around results and not busyness. Perhaps you do fewer things well, instead of a lot of things mediocre. Average results are poor stewardship when you have above average potential. We know we are too busy when we constantly run late for meetings and have a pattern of broken promises. So how can we break this crazy cycle of over commitment? Where do we start?
Focus starts by gazing on God with a rare glimpse on your circumstances. Ask what would Jesus do and how would He reach the goal? When your identity is in the One who loves you most, you become most like Him. Confidence bubbles up for those who first focus on their heavenly Father. He gives you the ability and know-how to be the best for Him.
“One thing I ask of the LORD, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple” (Psalm 27:4).
Therefore, by faith focus on a few things and do them well. Once you have mastered the basics then explore other exciting opportunities. God opens additional doors once you have gone through the door of faith and obedience in being faithful where He has you. You will experience freedom by staying focused on the Lord and His calling for you.
Jesus was the master at staying focused on priorities: “I will drive out demons and heal people today and tomorrow, and on the third day I will reach my goal” (Luke 13:32).
What one or two relationships do I need to focus on the most? Is the Lord my focus?
Related Readings: Psalm 62:11; Luke 10:42; John 14:31; Galatians 3:2; Philippians 3:13
Boyd Bailey is the author of Wisdom Hunters daily devotional and two devotional books, Infusion and Seeking Daily the Heart of God
Freedom In Focus by Boyd Bailey
“Because the Sovereign LORD helps me, I will not be disgraced. Therefore have I set my face like flint, and I know I will not be put to shame.” Isaiah 50:7
Focus brings freedom, because there is permission to say ‘no’ to good, competing ideas and opportunities. It is out of focus that faith is forged. When Jesus Christ is the focal point for direction and discipline then all other priorities fall into place. Focusing on Him brings to bear heaven’s perspective and resources. A face like flint on Jesus creates freedom to trust and wait on Him. Keep your Savior the spotlight and you will see clearly.
But how can I stay focused on the Lord when life’s distractions tend to dominate my time? How do I remain a fruitful Christian and not be mired down in the mundane? It is essential to first master the fundamentals of honesty, humility, patience and service to others. It is out of living the basic tenets of the Christian life that I can be trusted with more.
“Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much” (Luke 16:10).
Focus brings freedom at work when you assess your activity around results and not busyness. Perhaps you do fewer things well, instead of a lot of things mediocre. Average results are poor stewardship when you have above average potential. We know we are too busy when we constantly run late for meetings and have a pattern of broken promises. So how can we break this crazy cycle of over commitment? Where do we start?
Focus starts by gazing on God with a rare glimpse on your circumstances. Ask what would Jesus do and how would He reach the goal? When your identity is in the One who loves you most, you become most like Him. Confidence bubbles up for those who first focus on their heavenly Father. He gives you the ability and know-how to be the best for Him.
“One thing I ask of the LORD, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple” (Psalm 27:4).
Therefore, by faith focus on a few things and do them well. Once you have mastered the basics then explore other exciting opportunities. God opens additional doors once you have gone through the door of faith and obedience in being faithful where He has you. You will experience freedom by staying focused on the Lord and His calling for you.
Jesus was the master at staying focused on priorities: “I will drive out demons and heal people today and tomorrow, and on the third day I will reach my goal” (Luke 13:32).
What one or two relationships do I need to focus on the most? Is the Lord my focus?
Related Readings: Psalm 62:11; Luke 10:42; John 14:31; Galatians 3:2; Philippians 3:13
Boyd Bailey is the author of Wisdom Hunters daily devotional and two devotional books, Infusion and Seeking Daily the Heart of God
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Teacher, Preacher, Healer
7-14-2010
Teacher, Preacher, Healer
Matthew 4:23 says, “Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people. “ Let’s focus on three key points in this sentence. It says Jesus was teaching, preaching, and healing.
One of the greatest aspects of teaching a particular subject, is you must first understand the subject in order to teach it well. Jesus could teach because he understood what he was saying better than anyone else will ever understand. Jesus is the ultimate teacher!
Jesus preached the gospel. He gave clear, concise, and direct instructions as to how to live and how not to live. Jesus was committed to making what was true known to the world. Sermon after sermon, Jesus preached and preached. He was mocked by many, but clearly changed the lives and futures of many more!
Just as Jesus was the ultimate teacher and preacher, he was also the ultimate healer. Jesus didn’t just say what to do; he blessed those that had faith in him. The fact that he was able to heal people immediately reveals he is from God. Jesus can do all and has done all. There’s nothing to big or small for the maker of the world.
As we look at the example of Christ through his teaching, preaching, and healing, how well do we carry out the example he set for us. We aren’t going to be able to perform miracles like Jesus, but we don’t have to. What we can do is teach the word of God through a real understanding of who Christ is, thus stand bold for Christ through our example, and provide healing for the sick and those in need of our heavenly father. We must understand the sickness that exists in the world not only from the physical sense, but also from the spiritual sense. Unfortunately, it’s the majority that is starving for answers and truth, and as a Christ follower it’s our job to provide nourishment.
Application:
1.Read Matthew 4:23-25
2.Whom can you feed?
Teacher, Preacher, Healer
Matthew 4:23 says, “Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people. “ Let’s focus on three key points in this sentence. It says Jesus was teaching, preaching, and healing.
One of the greatest aspects of teaching a particular subject, is you must first understand the subject in order to teach it well. Jesus could teach because he understood what he was saying better than anyone else will ever understand. Jesus is the ultimate teacher!
Jesus preached the gospel. He gave clear, concise, and direct instructions as to how to live and how not to live. Jesus was committed to making what was true known to the world. Sermon after sermon, Jesus preached and preached. He was mocked by many, but clearly changed the lives and futures of many more!
Just as Jesus was the ultimate teacher and preacher, he was also the ultimate healer. Jesus didn’t just say what to do; he blessed those that had faith in him. The fact that he was able to heal people immediately reveals he is from God. Jesus can do all and has done all. There’s nothing to big or small for the maker of the world.
As we look at the example of Christ through his teaching, preaching, and healing, how well do we carry out the example he set for us. We aren’t going to be able to perform miracles like Jesus, but we don’t have to. What we can do is teach the word of God through a real understanding of who Christ is, thus stand bold for Christ through our example, and provide healing for the sick and those in need of our heavenly father. We must understand the sickness that exists in the world not only from the physical sense, but also from the spiritual sense. Unfortunately, it’s the majority that is starving for answers and truth, and as a Christ follower it’s our job to provide nourishment.
Application:
1.Read Matthew 4:23-25
2.Whom can you feed?
Monday, July 12, 2010
The Pick Up Line
7-13-2010
The Pick Up Line
I love to read leadership and personal development books, because every time I read one I feel more and more inspired. Each book is full of great tips for becoming the person you need to be in order to have the success we all desire to achieve. When I’m asked the question, “what’s the secret to success…if you could give me one key what would it be?” Each and every time the answer is “YOU”. In other words, when you work on yourself, everything else will soon fall into place. Your level of success is directly proportionate to your level of personal development. If you aren’t growing, you are limiting your level of success.
The reason I feel personal development is so important is people buy into YOU before they buy into what you are doing. I’ve spoken at many events over the past few years, and each time I hear people train on the importance of what to say, I’m often reminded just how unimportant what you say is if it’s the wrong person saying it. In other words, you can have the wrong person say the perfect things, and the sale won’t take place. On the flip side, you can have the right person say the wrong things, and the sale still gets done. People buy into people, and if you want to be a success you must make others a success, thus you must have influence.
In Matthew 4:19 it reads,”Come, follow me, “Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.” At once they left their nets and followed him.” I think we would all agree, “Come, follow me” isn’t exactly the best sales pitch or pick up line. The reason people followed Jesus when hearing something as simple as, “Come, follow me” is due to WHO was saying it. Jesus built a solid relationship with Peter and Andrew, thus when Jesus asked them to follow him, they did so immediately.
If you are the person God’s called you to be, people will follow. Remember, to be a great leader, you must first be a great follower of the ultimate leader! Each and every one of you are leaders whether you know it or not. If you are a parent, you have little ones looking up to you. For those of you that have a significant other, you are both responsible for leading each other. We all have people in our lives and whether you know it or not, you are influencing them and they are influencing you. You become who you hand around. Use the influence you have to make in impact in people’s lives. Focus on being the best YOU, you can be and let’s change the world one person at a time!
Application:
1.Read Matthew 4:12-22
2.What kind of influence do you have? When you ask someone for something or to meet with you, do they hesitate? Be honest with yourself, and become the person of influence God’s called you to be.
The Pick Up Line
I love to read leadership and personal development books, because every time I read one I feel more and more inspired. Each book is full of great tips for becoming the person you need to be in order to have the success we all desire to achieve. When I’m asked the question, “what’s the secret to success…if you could give me one key what would it be?” Each and every time the answer is “YOU”. In other words, when you work on yourself, everything else will soon fall into place. Your level of success is directly proportionate to your level of personal development. If you aren’t growing, you are limiting your level of success.
The reason I feel personal development is so important is people buy into YOU before they buy into what you are doing. I’ve spoken at many events over the past few years, and each time I hear people train on the importance of what to say, I’m often reminded just how unimportant what you say is if it’s the wrong person saying it. In other words, you can have the wrong person say the perfect things, and the sale won’t take place. On the flip side, you can have the right person say the wrong things, and the sale still gets done. People buy into people, and if you want to be a success you must make others a success, thus you must have influence.
In Matthew 4:19 it reads,”Come, follow me, “Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.” At once they left their nets and followed him.” I think we would all agree, “Come, follow me” isn’t exactly the best sales pitch or pick up line. The reason people followed Jesus when hearing something as simple as, “Come, follow me” is due to WHO was saying it. Jesus built a solid relationship with Peter and Andrew, thus when Jesus asked them to follow him, they did so immediately.
If you are the person God’s called you to be, people will follow. Remember, to be a great leader, you must first be a great follower of the ultimate leader! Each and every one of you are leaders whether you know it or not. If you are a parent, you have little ones looking up to you. For those of you that have a significant other, you are both responsible for leading each other. We all have people in our lives and whether you know it or not, you are influencing them and they are influencing you. You become who you hand around. Use the influence you have to make in impact in people’s lives. Focus on being the best YOU, you can be and let’s change the world one person at a time!
Application:
1.Read Matthew 4:12-22
2.What kind of influence do you have? When you ask someone for something or to meet with you, do they hesitate? Be honest with yourself, and become the person of influence God’s called you to be.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Context
7-12-2010
Context
We tend to draw a conclusion about things, people, events, experiences, and etcetera without truly understanding the entire situation or event. It might be something as silly as “so and so said this about you.” Later you find out they weren’t even talking about you, but instead they were quoting something from a movie. I love to use the following example: If I told you I would give you a million dollars if you jumped out of an airplane without a parachute, would you do it? I would assume most of you would quickly say no! Now, what if I told you the airplane was on the ground? This is a perfect example of drawing a conclusion without getting all of the information. If you knew the airplane was on the ground, of course you would jump out of the plane.
In addition to jumping to conclusions, we often misunderstand people. I know I’ve been guilty of drawing a conclusion about someone without truly getting to know them. In fact, a friend of mine asked me about one of my friends today. He said, “He seems so cold and standoffish.” The truth is he does come across that way until you get to know him. Once you get to know him, he is the exact opposite. I like to think of him as a big teddy bear. Again, this is an example of a common mistake we make.
As it relates to the Bible, it too can be taken out of context, thus misunderstood. Yesterday we spoke about the importance of understanding the Bible, so to add to that, it’s important to understand the context of the verse you are reading within the Bible. Understanding who is speaking, and who the speaker is speaking to, does make a difference. You will find people incorrectly using versus out of the Bible because they don’t understand the context of those versus. When you are seeking answers out of the Bible, you shouldn’t simply open the Bible and read a verse. Dig a little deeper to unlock the actual meaning of the verse and watch how more impactful the Bible is. For those of you reading the Bible on a daily basis, GREAT JOB! It can be very difficult to stay focused and have the discipline to feed your mind the spiritual food it needs, yet this is the most important type of non-materialistic need we have. When we are growing spiritually, the joy of the Lord rules your life, and you will see the world in the proper context!
Application:
1.Read Matthew 4: 1-11
2.Focus on getting as much information as possible before jumping to conclusions, and allow God to be a part of the decision making process.
Context
We tend to draw a conclusion about things, people, events, experiences, and etcetera without truly understanding the entire situation or event. It might be something as silly as “so and so said this about you.” Later you find out they weren’t even talking about you, but instead they were quoting something from a movie. I love to use the following example: If I told you I would give you a million dollars if you jumped out of an airplane without a parachute, would you do it? I would assume most of you would quickly say no! Now, what if I told you the airplane was on the ground? This is a perfect example of drawing a conclusion without getting all of the information. If you knew the airplane was on the ground, of course you would jump out of the plane.
In addition to jumping to conclusions, we often misunderstand people. I know I’ve been guilty of drawing a conclusion about someone without truly getting to know them. In fact, a friend of mine asked me about one of my friends today. He said, “He seems so cold and standoffish.” The truth is he does come across that way until you get to know him. Once you get to know him, he is the exact opposite. I like to think of him as a big teddy bear. Again, this is an example of a common mistake we make.
As it relates to the Bible, it too can be taken out of context, thus misunderstood. Yesterday we spoke about the importance of understanding the Bible, so to add to that, it’s important to understand the context of the verse you are reading within the Bible. Understanding who is speaking, and who the speaker is speaking to, does make a difference. You will find people incorrectly using versus out of the Bible because they don’t understand the context of those versus. When you are seeking answers out of the Bible, you shouldn’t simply open the Bible and read a verse. Dig a little deeper to unlock the actual meaning of the verse and watch how more impactful the Bible is. For those of you reading the Bible on a daily basis, GREAT JOB! It can be very difficult to stay focused and have the discipline to feed your mind the spiritual food it needs, yet this is the most important type of non-materialistic need we have. When we are growing spiritually, the joy of the Lord rules your life, and you will see the world in the proper context!
Application:
1.Read Matthew 4: 1-11
2.Focus on getting as much information as possible before jumping to conclusions, and allow God to be a part of the decision making process.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Cell Phone vs. Bible
7-9-2010
Cell Phone vs. Bible
Ever wonder what would happen if we treated our Bible like we treat our cell phone?
What if we carried it around in our purses or pockets?
What if we flipped through it several times a day?
What if we turned back to go get it if we forgot it?
What if we used it to receive messages from the text?
What if we treated it like we couldn't live without it?
What if we gave it to Kids as gifts?
What if we used it when we traveled?
What if we used it in case of emergency?
This is something to make you go....hmm...where is my Bible?
Oh, and one more thing.
Unlike our cell phone, we don't have to worry about our Bible being
disconnected because Jesus already paid the bill.
Makes you stop and think 'where are my priorities? And no dropped calls!
When Jesus died on the cross, he was thinking of you!
Cell Phone vs. Bible
Ever wonder what would happen if we treated our Bible like we treat our cell phone?
What if we carried it around in our purses or pockets?
What if we flipped through it several times a day?
What if we turned back to go get it if we forgot it?
What if we used it to receive messages from the text?
What if we treated it like we couldn't live without it?
What if we gave it to Kids as gifts?
What if we used it when we traveled?
What if we used it in case of emergency?
This is something to make you go....hmm...where is my Bible?
Oh, and one more thing.
Unlike our cell phone, we don't have to worry about our Bible being
disconnected because Jesus already paid the bill.
Makes you stop and think 'where are my priorities? And no dropped calls!
When Jesus died on the cross, he was thinking of you!
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Clay Balls
7-8-2010Great Email
This email was forwarded to me, and I feel it’s worth the read!
Clay Balls
A man was exploring caves by the Seashore. In one of the caves he found a canvas bag with a bunch of hardened clay balls. It was like someone had rolled clay balls and left them out in the sun to bake. They didn't look like much, but they intrigued the man, so he took the bag out of the cave with him. As he strolled along the beach, he would throw the clay balls one at a time out into the ocean as far as he could.
He thought little about it, until he dropped one of the clay balls and it cracked open on a rock . Inside was a beautiful, precious stone!
Excited, the man started breaking open the remaining clay balls. Each contained a similar treasure. He found thousands of dollars worth of jewels in the 20 or so clay balls he had left.
Then it struck him. He had been on the beach a long time. He had thrown maybe 50 or 60 of the clay balls with their hidden treasure into the ocean waves. Instead of thousands of dollars in treasure, he could have taken home tens of thousands, but he had just thrown it away!
It's like that with people. We look at someone, maybe even ourselves, and we see the external clay vessel. It doesn't look like much from the outside. It isn't always beautiful or sparkling, so we discount it.
We see that person as less important than someone more beautiful or stylish or well known or wealthy. But we have not taken the time to find the treasure hidden inside that person...
There is a treasure in each and every one of us. If we take the time to get to know that person, and if we ask God to show us that person the way He sees them, then the clay begins to peel away and the brilliant gem begins to shine forth.
May we not come to the end of our lives and find out that we have thrown away a fortune in friendships because the gems were hidden in bits of clay. May we see the people in our world as God sees them.
I am so blessed by the gems of friendship we share. Thank you for looking beyond
my clay vessel.
APPRECIATE EVERY SINGLE
THING YOU HAVE, ESPECIALLY YOUR FRIENDS!
LIFE IS TOO SHORT AND FRIENDS ARE TOO FEW!
This email was forwarded to me, and I feel it’s worth the read!
Clay Balls
A man was exploring caves by the Seashore. In one of the caves he found a canvas bag with a bunch of hardened clay balls. It was like someone had rolled clay balls and left them out in the sun to bake. They didn't look like much, but they intrigued the man, so he took the bag out of the cave with him. As he strolled along the beach, he would throw the clay balls one at a time out into the ocean as far as he could.
He thought little about it, until he dropped one of the clay balls and it cracked open on a rock . Inside was a beautiful, precious stone!
Excited, the man started breaking open the remaining clay balls. Each contained a similar treasure. He found thousands of dollars worth of jewels in the 20 or so clay balls he had left.
Then it struck him. He had been on the beach a long time. He had thrown maybe 50 or 60 of the clay balls with their hidden treasure into the ocean waves. Instead of thousands of dollars in treasure, he could have taken home tens of thousands, but he had just thrown it away!
It's like that with people. We look at someone, maybe even ourselves, and we see the external clay vessel. It doesn't look like much from the outside. It isn't always beautiful or sparkling, so we discount it.
We see that person as less important than someone more beautiful or stylish or well known or wealthy. But we have not taken the time to find the treasure hidden inside that person...
There is a treasure in each and every one of us. If we take the time to get to know that person, and if we ask God to show us that person the way He sees them, then the clay begins to peel away and the brilliant gem begins to shine forth.
May we not come to the end of our lives and find out that we have thrown away a fortune in friendships because the gems were hidden in bits of clay. May we see the people in our world as God sees them.
I am so blessed by the gems of friendship we share. Thank you for looking beyond
my clay vessel.
APPRECIATE EVERY SINGLE
THING YOU HAVE, ESPECIALLY YOUR FRIENDS!
LIFE IS TOO SHORT AND FRIENDS ARE TOO FEW!
Parable of the Weeds
7-7-2010
Parable of the Weeds
Parables can be interpreted in different ways, so the focus on each should be one of spiritual growth and not on literal meaning. When I read the parable of the weeds in Matthew 13, I can’t help but think about the wheat being the followers and the weeds being the evil that is prevalent in the world. We can’t rid ourselves of the evil, but Christ followers will rise in due time. When that time comes, those that are obedient and follow the ways of Christ will in fact be “gathered” while those that do evil will be tied into bundles to be burned. Matthew 13:24-30 says:
“24Jesus told them another parable: "The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field. 25But while everyone was sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and went away. 26When the wheat sprouted and formed heads, then the weeds also appeared.
27"The owner's servants came to him and said, 'Sir, didn't you sow good seed in your field? Where then did the weeds come from?'
28" 'An enemy did this,' he replied.
"The servants asked him, 'Do you want us to go and pull them up?'
29" 'No,' he answered, 'because while you are pulling the weeds, you may root up the wheat with them. 30Let both grow together until the harvest. At that time I will tell the harvesters: First collect the weeds and tie them in bundles to be burned; then gather the wheat and bring it into my barn.' "
Application:
1.Read Matthew 13:24-30
2.Are you wheat or weeds?
Parable of the Weeds
Parables can be interpreted in different ways, so the focus on each should be one of spiritual growth and not on literal meaning. When I read the parable of the weeds in Matthew 13, I can’t help but think about the wheat being the followers and the weeds being the evil that is prevalent in the world. We can’t rid ourselves of the evil, but Christ followers will rise in due time. When that time comes, those that are obedient and follow the ways of Christ will in fact be “gathered” while those that do evil will be tied into bundles to be burned. Matthew 13:24-30 says:
“24Jesus told them another parable: "The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field. 25But while everyone was sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and went away. 26When the wheat sprouted and formed heads, then the weeds also appeared.
27"The owner's servants came to him and said, 'Sir, didn't you sow good seed in your field? Where then did the weeds come from?'
28" 'An enemy did this,' he replied.
"The servants asked him, 'Do you want us to go and pull them up?'
29" 'No,' he answered, 'because while you are pulling the weeds, you may root up the wheat with them. 30Let both grow together until the harvest. At that time I will tell the harvesters: First collect the weeds and tie them in bundles to be burned; then gather the wheat and bring it into my barn.' "
Application:
1.Read Matthew 13:24-30
2.Are you wheat or weeds?
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Be Decisive
7-6-2010
Be Decisive
“ Give us counsel, render a decision.” Isaiah 16:3a
Decisions can be as illusive as your shadow. They can haunt you from behind, or they can lead you from out front. Decisions are not designed to be delayed forever unless, of course, they are related to an evil or wicked act. Decisions are meant to drive you toward God’s purpose and plan for your life. He allows you to make decisions that determine His future for you. He gives you the counsel and the wisdom, but you make the decision.
No one else can make the decision for you; God wants you to make it. This is your responsibility and opportunity. Fear may be delaying your decision. Pride may be prolonging your decision. Lack of trust may be paralyzing your mind with indecision. You may be cautious because a similar experience in the past did not work out so well.
But if you delay much longer, you may very well miss this window of opportunity. You have prayed about this, and there is peace. You have sought wise counsel, and there is affirmation. You have exceeded the normal amount of due diligence to make an informed decision. Now is the time to decide.
Say yes or no, but do not procrastinate any longer. It is not fair to those who depend on you, nor is it fair to those who believe in you. The bottom line probably relates to trust. Can God be trusted to lead you through the implications of this decision? Can He handle the “what ifs?” The answer, of course, is yes. God will not lead you into a decision that is detrimental to His plan for your life. There will surely be bumps along the way.
The bottom may fall out, but He is still faithful. It is better to be in a storm with Jesus, than on the calm shore without Him. “No decision” is still a decision. If you continue to be indecisive, you have decided not to move forward. But you do not have to stand still. You can take this first step and then trust God with steps two and three. Do not become overwhelmed with what might happen tomorrow. Just remain faithful today. Do your best now and trust the Lord with later.
The same holds true for others stuck in indecision. They have strung you along, way beyond what is reasonable. It is responsible for you to give them a deadline. It is bad stewardship for you to linger too long around a dead-end deal. It may be time to move on and “knock the dust from your sandals” (Mark 6:11, KJV).
God may very well be shutting the door because of another’s inability to decide. Do not see them as the enemy because of their indecision. This may be God’s protection, so be grateful for this divine delay. But now move on with Christ in quiet confidence and bold creativity. Use another’s indecisiveness to propel you forward without them.
God has decided what is best. Decide to believe this and trust Him with the results. A life mired in indecision is messy and going nowhere. A life marked by wise decisions is moving forward with their heavenly Father’s help. Be a bold decision maker because you can. Align your decisions with His wisdom, for He has it all figured out. Get the facts. Review the truth. Get counsel. Pray. Then decide to decide. By faith and by the grace of God, decide. This is the best decision.
Taken from the July 3rd reading from Boyd Bailey’s Seeking Daily the Heart of God. This 365 day devotional book is a compilation of the reader’s favorites from the daily email devotional “Wisdom Hunters”. Andy Stanley says, “I have walked with Boyd for over 20 years and I am definitely wiser for it. You are going to love this book!”
Be Decisive
“ Give us counsel, render a decision.” Isaiah 16:3a
Decisions can be as illusive as your shadow. They can haunt you from behind, or they can lead you from out front. Decisions are not designed to be delayed forever unless, of course, they are related to an evil or wicked act. Decisions are meant to drive you toward God’s purpose and plan for your life. He allows you to make decisions that determine His future for you. He gives you the counsel and the wisdom, but you make the decision.
No one else can make the decision for you; God wants you to make it. This is your responsibility and opportunity. Fear may be delaying your decision. Pride may be prolonging your decision. Lack of trust may be paralyzing your mind with indecision. You may be cautious because a similar experience in the past did not work out so well.
But if you delay much longer, you may very well miss this window of opportunity. You have prayed about this, and there is peace. You have sought wise counsel, and there is affirmation. You have exceeded the normal amount of due diligence to make an informed decision. Now is the time to decide.
Say yes or no, but do not procrastinate any longer. It is not fair to those who depend on you, nor is it fair to those who believe in you. The bottom line probably relates to trust. Can God be trusted to lead you through the implications of this decision? Can He handle the “what ifs?” The answer, of course, is yes. God will not lead you into a decision that is detrimental to His plan for your life. There will surely be bumps along the way.
The bottom may fall out, but He is still faithful. It is better to be in a storm with Jesus, than on the calm shore without Him. “No decision” is still a decision. If you continue to be indecisive, you have decided not to move forward. But you do not have to stand still. You can take this first step and then trust God with steps two and three. Do not become overwhelmed with what might happen tomorrow. Just remain faithful today. Do your best now and trust the Lord with later.
The same holds true for others stuck in indecision. They have strung you along, way beyond what is reasonable. It is responsible for you to give them a deadline. It is bad stewardship for you to linger too long around a dead-end deal. It may be time to move on and “knock the dust from your sandals” (Mark 6:11, KJV).
God may very well be shutting the door because of another’s inability to decide. Do not see them as the enemy because of their indecision. This may be God’s protection, so be grateful for this divine delay. But now move on with Christ in quiet confidence and bold creativity. Use another’s indecisiveness to propel you forward without them.
God has decided what is best. Decide to believe this and trust Him with the results. A life mired in indecision is messy and going nowhere. A life marked by wise decisions is moving forward with their heavenly Father’s help. Be a bold decision maker because you can. Align your decisions with His wisdom, for He has it all figured out. Get the facts. Review the truth. Get counsel. Pray. Then decide to decide. By faith and by the grace of God, decide. This is the best decision.
Taken from the July 3rd reading from Boyd Bailey’s Seeking Daily the Heart of God. This 365 day devotional book is a compilation of the reader’s favorites from the daily email devotional “Wisdom Hunters”. Andy Stanley says, “I have walked with Boyd for over 20 years and I am definitely wiser for it. You are going to love this book!”
Monday, July 5, 2010
Temptation
7-5-2010
Temptation
Temptation is an interesting yet scary event in a Christian’s life. We all have weaknesses, and as a result we learn to lean on God especially during the times we are weak. Satan does a great job of hitting us where we are weak, thus it’s important to understand our strengths and weaknesses. In Matthew 4:1-11 we pick up where Satan tempts Jesus in the desert:
Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the devil. After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. The tempter came to him and said, “If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.” Jesus answered, “It is written: Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.”
As you read today’s versus, you will see that Satan has a few other tricks up his sleeve, yet Jesus never gives in. We are all tempted from time to time. What are your weaknesses? What are your temptations? For those of you in school reading these devotionals, you may be tempted to cheat on a test. You are trying to get the best grade you can, and you fall prey to cheating. Don’t cheat; don’t let Satan win the battle! For all the couples that read these devotionals, you may be tempted to cheat in a different way. Satan may be inserting the “grass is greener on the other side” mentality. Don’t let him win! Stay focused on what’s true and what God calls us to do.
When we say, “stay focused on what God calls us to do,” it’s really easy to do so when times are good. It’s during the tough times your faith is really tested. Testing will come, thus we should be ready and alert! There’s no surprise, Satan wants to get you. He really likes to get those of us that stand bold for Christ. By proclaiming your faith in God, you basically put a bull’s eye on your chest. When you are tested, that’s your way of showing the world and most importantly, God, where you stand. Don’t give the devil a foothold.
Being tempted isn’t a sin, but giving in to that temptation is a sin. Here’s a good guide to see if you are being tempted: if there’s a thought in your mind that you shouldn’t do something, then it’s probably best to not do it. Equipping yourself with the word of God, gives you the ultimate weapon to fight temptation. It’s one thing to have a weapon, but it’s another to use it! Satan knows the Bible forwards and backwards, but he doesn’t obey the Bible! Meditate on the word of God, and allow God’s word to transform the way you think and live, and you will be able to resist even the toughest temptations you have.
Application:
1.Read Matthew 4:1-4
2.Write down your temptations (eating, laziness, addictions, etc.).
3.What are you going to do to make sure Satan doesn’t continue to win?
Temptation
Temptation is an interesting yet scary event in a Christian’s life. We all have weaknesses, and as a result we learn to lean on God especially during the times we are weak. Satan does a great job of hitting us where we are weak, thus it’s important to understand our strengths and weaknesses. In Matthew 4:1-11 we pick up where Satan tempts Jesus in the desert:
Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the devil. After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. The tempter came to him and said, “If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.” Jesus answered, “It is written: Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.”
As you read today’s versus, you will see that Satan has a few other tricks up his sleeve, yet Jesus never gives in. We are all tempted from time to time. What are your weaknesses? What are your temptations? For those of you in school reading these devotionals, you may be tempted to cheat on a test. You are trying to get the best grade you can, and you fall prey to cheating. Don’t cheat; don’t let Satan win the battle! For all the couples that read these devotionals, you may be tempted to cheat in a different way. Satan may be inserting the “grass is greener on the other side” mentality. Don’t let him win! Stay focused on what’s true and what God calls us to do.
When we say, “stay focused on what God calls us to do,” it’s really easy to do so when times are good. It’s during the tough times your faith is really tested. Testing will come, thus we should be ready and alert! There’s no surprise, Satan wants to get you. He really likes to get those of us that stand bold for Christ. By proclaiming your faith in God, you basically put a bull’s eye on your chest. When you are tested, that’s your way of showing the world and most importantly, God, where you stand. Don’t give the devil a foothold.
Being tempted isn’t a sin, but giving in to that temptation is a sin. Here’s a good guide to see if you are being tempted: if there’s a thought in your mind that you shouldn’t do something, then it’s probably best to not do it. Equipping yourself with the word of God, gives you the ultimate weapon to fight temptation. It’s one thing to have a weapon, but it’s another to use it! Satan knows the Bible forwards and backwards, but he doesn’t obey the Bible! Meditate on the word of God, and allow God’s word to transform the way you think and live, and you will be able to resist even the toughest temptations you have.
Application:
1.Read Matthew 4:1-4
2.Write down your temptations (eating, laziness, addictions, etc.).
3.What are you going to do to make sure Satan doesn’t continue to win?
Friday, July 2, 2010
Fitly Joined
7-2-2010
Fitly Joined Together by Boyd Bailey
“From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.” Ephesians 4:16 KJV
What does it mean to be fitly joined together? Like a hand in a well-fit glove there is a comfort and ease of use. When people are in their proper positions, and they understand their role, there is not a lot of inefficiency. A good fit means everyone on the team is excelling and no one is worried about the follow through of a fellow worker.
There is an ease that comes in relationships and work when we are fitly joined together. There is a chemistry and connection that happens when we compliment one another’s gifts. For instance, a visionary needs around him or her process thinkers and project managers. The chief executive is responsible for execution through complimentary skilled team members. Alignment around implementation brings agreed upon results.
When the Body of Christ works together there is mutual love and unity. This is why it is wise to engage partners and people in your business or ministry that have the same values and priorities in life. A very competent team member, without depth of character, can cannibalize your culture. Furthermore, a person of character without consistent competence can bruise your brand promise. Fitly joined together requires trustworthiness.
Ultimately, we are united around Christ who is the head. Whether its marriage, business or ministry, focus on Jesus keeps our perspective bigger than ourselves. He is the One who empowers and equips His children with wisdom, strength and skills. Be bold to move someone out of a role that is not a fit, so the whole team becomes healthy and fit.
Keep your company and home Christ centered. Receive God’s gifts and graces for the sake of the whole Body of Christ and you will experience the fruit of being fitly joined together. Love and respect among believers facilitates unity and spiritual growth. You know you fit together by faith when excellence is the outcome of each one’s work.
“And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit (Ephesians 2:22).”
Is my marriage jointly fit together in Christ? Who at work is not the right fit?
Related Readings: Ezra 3:9; Matthew 19:6; Acts 1:14; Ephesians 2:21
Fitly Joined Together by Boyd Bailey
“From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.” Ephesians 4:16 KJV
What does it mean to be fitly joined together? Like a hand in a well-fit glove there is a comfort and ease of use. When people are in their proper positions, and they understand their role, there is not a lot of inefficiency. A good fit means everyone on the team is excelling and no one is worried about the follow through of a fellow worker.
There is an ease that comes in relationships and work when we are fitly joined together. There is a chemistry and connection that happens when we compliment one another’s gifts. For instance, a visionary needs around him or her process thinkers and project managers. The chief executive is responsible for execution through complimentary skilled team members. Alignment around implementation brings agreed upon results.
When the Body of Christ works together there is mutual love and unity. This is why it is wise to engage partners and people in your business or ministry that have the same values and priorities in life. A very competent team member, without depth of character, can cannibalize your culture. Furthermore, a person of character without consistent competence can bruise your brand promise. Fitly joined together requires trustworthiness.
Ultimately, we are united around Christ who is the head. Whether its marriage, business or ministry, focus on Jesus keeps our perspective bigger than ourselves. He is the One who empowers and equips His children with wisdom, strength and skills. Be bold to move someone out of a role that is not a fit, so the whole team becomes healthy and fit.
Keep your company and home Christ centered. Receive God’s gifts and graces for the sake of the whole Body of Christ and you will experience the fruit of being fitly joined together. Love and respect among believers facilitates unity and spiritual growth. You know you fit together by faith when excellence is the outcome of each one’s work.
“And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit (Ephesians 2:22).”
Is my marriage jointly fit together in Christ? Who at work is not the right fit?
Related Readings: Ezra 3:9; Matthew 19:6; Acts 1:14; Ephesians 2:21
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