5-31-2011- by Boyd Bailey
A Grateful Nation
In that day you will say: "Give thanks to the LORD, call on his name; make known among the nations what he has done, and proclaim that his name is exalted.” Isaiah 12:4
A nation, born out of the womb of religious liberty, has much for which to thank Almighty God. We can thank Him that man's tyranny lives oceans away and we are free to worship, vote and treat our fellowman with civility and respect. “With your hand you drove out the nations and planted our fathers; you crushed the peoples and made our fathers flourish” (Psalm 44:2). He is the initiator and sustainer of our nation’s freedom, because without the Lord we lose.
A large lump fills our throats with the memory of men and women whose blood saturated the soil of foreign fields to preserve our freedoms. A nation like ours, that encourages free enterprise, free speech, free press and free worship comes with a severe sacrifice. When was the last time you thanked the Lord for those on the front lines who risk their lives for your liberty? His blessing remains where gratitude is retained, so thank Him often.
Indeed, it is a country with character that positions itself for God’s blessing. Therefore, don’t just ask God to bless America, but in addition thank Him for already blessing America. “With praise and thanksgiving they sang to the LORD : "He is good; his love to Israel endures forever” (Ezra 3:11a). A grateful nation gives God the glory for His goodness. Out of our national appreciation the world wonders what God can do for them.
So when the United States of America appreciates Almighty God we become a shining light from shore to shore, as men and women around the globe take notice of our humble dependence on Him. Jesus described the collective role of God-fearing people, “You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden” (Matthew 5:14).
If we extinguish our light by abandoning the faith from where we came, He will raise up other nations to take our place. However, He smiles when He sees a nation acknowledge Him as Lord and Savior. It sets a standard for those who admire our freedoms to see where they originate. Memorial Day is an opportunity to privately and publically give God the glory and gratitude for His incredible favor and blessing on our nation.
“Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people he chose for his inheritance” (Psalm 33:12).”
How can I lead our extended family in a sincere prayer of thanksgiving to the Lord? What are some specific freedoms I can thank God for in blessing my country? How can I pray for our President to be an example of a Christian leader the world will follow?
Related Readings: Psalm 102:15; Malachi 1:14; Acts 10:34-36; Revelation 15:4
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Monday, May 30, 2011
The Ultimate Sacrifice
5-30-2011 by Boyd Bailey
The Ultimate Sacrifice
“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command.” John 15:13-14
Why do some brave souls volunteer to defend their nation and give their life if necessary for people they have never met? Why do these same soldiers beat their body into submission at boot camp, sharpen their mind through maneuvers and toughen their emotions in simulated engagements? Why do these courageous comrades care so much to fight for freedom? Love is the initiator of those who represent a country founded on faith.
Men and women with moral authority from Almighty God sacrifice because of love. Love of country causes them to proudly defend a nation built on belief in their Creator. Love of family brings back meaningful memories of home, as they are hunkered down in a foxhole. Love of Christ reminds them of His ultimate sacrifice on their behalf. Those filled with faith gaze on God and give their all for the sake of the call to protect freedom.
"Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart" (Hebrews 12:2-3).
Perhaps you “adopt” a family whose loved one is stationed overseas and you become part of their support system. You pray with and for them—you check in on them to see how they are doing—and you let them know how grateful you are for the love and courage of their child, relative or friend. If you are unaware of a family connected to a serviceman or woman, seek them out from a local government official or from your church. Love supports the loving support of those that sacrifice everyday to keep you safe and secure.
Furthermore, there is a spiritual battle raging that is seen and unseen. However, this battle is different, because all Christians are called to engage the enemy on their knees in prayer and on their feet by faith. Satan seeks to deceive and destroy your character and testimony for Jesus. So, in humility and bold faith resist him and he will flee.
“Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith” (1 Peter 5:8-9a, NLT).
Pray for and financially support those who are on the front lines of faith: missionaries, ministry leaders, pastors, worship leaders, evangelists and church workers. They are engaged in enemy territory, but so are you as volunteers in the army of God. Everyone who names the name of Christ is called to enlist in this eternal battle—less the enemy destroy your family, work or faith. Fight the good fight and thank God that He wins!
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7).
Who in the military can I personally support, and help encourage and care for their family stateside?
Related Readings: 1 Samuel 17:47; 2 Samuel 10:12; Psalm 144:1; 1 Timothy 6:12
The Ultimate Sacrifice
“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command.” John 15:13-14
Why do some brave souls volunteer to defend their nation and give their life if necessary for people they have never met? Why do these same soldiers beat their body into submission at boot camp, sharpen their mind through maneuvers and toughen their emotions in simulated engagements? Why do these courageous comrades care so much to fight for freedom? Love is the initiator of those who represent a country founded on faith.
Men and women with moral authority from Almighty God sacrifice because of love. Love of country causes them to proudly defend a nation built on belief in their Creator. Love of family brings back meaningful memories of home, as they are hunkered down in a foxhole. Love of Christ reminds them of His ultimate sacrifice on their behalf. Those filled with faith gaze on God and give their all for the sake of the call to protect freedom.
"Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart" (Hebrews 12:2-3).
Perhaps you “adopt” a family whose loved one is stationed overseas and you become part of their support system. You pray with and for them—you check in on them to see how they are doing—and you let them know how grateful you are for the love and courage of their child, relative or friend. If you are unaware of a family connected to a serviceman or woman, seek them out from a local government official or from your church. Love supports the loving support of those that sacrifice everyday to keep you safe and secure.
Furthermore, there is a spiritual battle raging that is seen and unseen. However, this battle is different, because all Christians are called to engage the enemy on their knees in prayer and on their feet by faith. Satan seeks to deceive and destroy your character and testimony for Jesus. So, in humility and bold faith resist him and he will flee.
“Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith” (1 Peter 5:8-9a, NLT).
Pray for and financially support those who are on the front lines of faith: missionaries, ministry leaders, pastors, worship leaders, evangelists and church workers. They are engaged in enemy territory, but so are you as volunteers in the army of God. Everyone who names the name of Christ is called to enlist in this eternal battle—less the enemy destroy your family, work or faith. Fight the good fight and thank God that He wins!
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7).
Who in the military can I personally support, and help encourage and care for their family stateside?
Related Readings: 1 Samuel 17:47; 2 Samuel 10:12; Psalm 144:1; 1 Timothy 6:12
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Loved To Love
5-27-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Loved To Love
“We love because he first loved us.” 1 John 4:19
Almighty God loves with an incredible love. His love has no boundaries or bias. The love of Jesus is limitless to the extent to which He will give us His grace. His love goes behind the enemy’s lines of deceit and rescues those lost in their loveless state of mind. Christ’s love looks for the unloved and offers comfort, care, compassion and forgiveness.
The love of God is not without benefits. Those cloaked in the love of Christ will have great boldness on the Day of Judgment—indeed, His great love covers all sin for those who have appropriated His salvation. Moreover, fear is cast out of the peace-loving presence of the Lord’s love. Fear and love cannot coexist where the love of Jesus fills humble hearts.
“There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear” (1 John 4:18a).
So, do you rest in the love of the Lord or strive under the unnecessary pressure of having to prove you deserve to be loved? Daily doses of eternal love are a remedy to earthly love’s limited effectiveness. No one—no matter their sincerity—can replace the need for the love of Jesus to fill your soul. Receive first God’s love and let other’s love be a bonus.
Why does the Almighty love you with such abandonment? One reason is so that you can be a catalyst for Christ’s love. You have the inconceivable opportunity to love others on behalf of the Lord. While a friend or family member may writhe in physical agony or emotional pain, you are an extension of God’s eternal love on earth, because you are extremely loved by God. You have His extra love to administer to other’s loneliness and to their frantic fears.
“But we ought always to thank God for you, brothers and sisters loved by the Lord, because God chose you as firstfruits to be saved through the sanctifying work of the Spirit and through belief in the truth” (2 Thessalonians 3:13).
Love is not received to be stored up in your soul like a savings account, rather to be paid forward to neighbors, work associates and enemies. Love is quick to forgive and slow to criticize. It looks for ways to bless those whose last blessing is long gone. Love grows a relationship into a beautiful garden of green plants, deep-rooted trees and the tantalizing smell of luscious flowers. Love does not sit still, but searches out souls in need of its care.
Therefore, take time to regularly receive the love of Jesus into your life. Commune with Christ, the lover of your soul, and you will experience His peace and security. Your rested spirit is positioned to be a robust lover for another hungry heart. Enter into God’s eternal love, so you can deploy it on earth. The Lord loves on you, so you can love on others.
“God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them” (1 John 4:16b).
Today, have I experienced my heavenly Father’s love? Today, whom can I love on?
Related Readings: John 14:23; 15:9-13; Romans 12:10; Galatians 5:13
Loved To Love
“We love because he first loved us.” 1 John 4:19
Almighty God loves with an incredible love. His love has no boundaries or bias. The love of Jesus is limitless to the extent to which He will give us His grace. His love goes behind the enemy’s lines of deceit and rescues those lost in their loveless state of mind. Christ’s love looks for the unloved and offers comfort, care, compassion and forgiveness.
The love of God is not without benefits. Those cloaked in the love of Christ will have great boldness on the Day of Judgment—indeed, His great love covers all sin for those who have appropriated His salvation. Moreover, fear is cast out of the peace-loving presence of the Lord’s love. Fear and love cannot coexist where the love of Jesus fills humble hearts.
“There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear” (1 John 4:18a).
So, do you rest in the love of the Lord or strive under the unnecessary pressure of having to prove you deserve to be loved? Daily doses of eternal love are a remedy to earthly love’s limited effectiveness. No one—no matter their sincerity—can replace the need for the love of Jesus to fill your soul. Receive first God’s love and let other’s love be a bonus.
Why does the Almighty love you with such abandonment? One reason is so that you can be a catalyst for Christ’s love. You have the inconceivable opportunity to love others on behalf of the Lord. While a friend or family member may writhe in physical agony or emotional pain, you are an extension of God’s eternal love on earth, because you are extremely loved by God. You have His extra love to administer to other’s loneliness and to their frantic fears.
“But we ought always to thank God for you, brothers and sisters loved by the Lord, because God chose you as firstfruits to be saved through the sanctifying work of the Spirit and through belief in the truth” (2 Thessalonians 3:13).
Love is not received to be stored up in your soul like a savings account, rather to be paid forward to neighbors, work associates and enemies. Love is quick to forgive and slow to criticize. It looks for ways to bless those whose last blessing is long gone. Love grows a relationship into a beautiful garden of green plants, deep-rooted trees and the tantalizing smell of luscious flowers. Love does not sit still, but searches out souls in need of its care.
Therefore, take time to regularly receive the love of Jesus into your life. Commune with Christ, the lover of your soul, and you will experience His peace and security. Your rested spirit is positioned to be a robust lover for another hungry heart. Enter into God’s eternal love, so you can deploy it on earth. The Lord loves on you, so you can love on others.
“God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them” (1 John 4:16b).
Today, have I experienced my heavenly Father’s love? Today, whom can I love on?
Related Readings: John 14:23; 15:9-13; Romans 12:10; Galatians 5:13
Monday, May 16, 2011
Righteous Resolve
5-17-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Righteous Resolve
“The righteous will never be uprooted, but the wicked will not remain in the land.” Proverbs 10:30
Resolve is the result of righteous living. There is a determination deep within a soul to be dependent on God. When you are established in the faith, no one can remove you from Christ’s call. He has appointed you to this post of service. Do not leave until the Lord reassigns you. Righteous resolve decides to stay put; so, by faith, keep on for Christ.
It probably means you disappoint some and invigorate others. However, if your goal is to first trust and obey the Lord, you will be misunderstood by some and rejected by others. Friends may even urge you to move on, but you cannot because Christ has not released you. Your resolve is His resolve. Therefore, you persevere through pain, suffering and uncertainty. Righteous resolve remains, regardless of the consequences, good or bad.
Moreover, there is a righteous resolve that remains in Christ (see John 15:5). Your conversion to Christianity was a resolution to abide under the influence of Almighty God. You stay true to your commitment to Christ because of the joy that comes from following Jesus. The “meek inherit the earth” (Matthew 5:5), while the wicked don’t.
Lastly, you cannot lose what you give away, and you cannot keep what you will not release. Indeed, a righteous resolve has a relentless trust in the Lord. Obedience, generosity and contentment all require tenacious trust. Therefore, resolve in your heart to go hard after God. Release your relentless pursuits, only after He has released you. Perhaps you ask, “Is my resolve righteous, or is it contingent on circumstances?”
The Bible says, “Alarmed, Jehoshaphat resolved to inquire of the Lord” (2 Chronicles 20:3).
Where do I need to make a righteous resolve to remain true to my commitment and calling?
Related Readings: Psalm 15:5; Daniel 1:8; Romans 8:35-39; 1 Corinthians 2:2
Righteous Resolve
“The righteous will never be uprooted, but the wicked will not remain in the land.” Proverbs 10:30
Resolve is the result of righteous living. There is a determination deep within a soul to be dependent on God. When you are established in the faith, no one can remove you from Christ’s call. He has appointed you to this post of service. Do not leave until the Lord reassigns you. Righteous resolve decides to stay put; so, by faith, keep on for Christ.
It probably means you disappoint some and invigorate others. However, if your goal is to first trust and obey the Lord, you will be misunderstood by some and rejected by others. Friends may even urge you to move on, but you cannot because Christ has not released you. Your resolve is His resolve. Therefore, you persevere through pain, suffering and uncertainty. Righteous resolve remains, regardless of the consequences, good or bad.
Moreover, there is a righteous resolve that remains in Christ (see John 15:5). Your conversion to Christianity was a resolution to abide under the influence of Almighty God. You stay true to your commitment to Christ because of the joy that comes from following Jesus. The “meek inherit the earth” (Matthew 5:5), while the wicked don’t.
Lastly, you cannot lose what you give away, and you cannot keep what you will not release. Indeed, a righteous resolve has a relentless trust in the Lord. Obedience, generosity and contentment all require tenacious trust. Therefore, resolve in your heart to go hard after God. Release your relentless pursuits, only after He has released you. Perhaps you ask, “Is my resolve righteous, or is it contingent on circumstances?”
The Bible says, “Alarmed, Jehoshaphat resolved to inquire of the Lord” (2 Chronicles 20:3).
Where do I need to make a righteous resolve to remain true to my commitment and calling?
Related Readings: Psalm 15:5; Daniel 1:8; Romans 8:35-39; 1 Corinthians 2:2
Sunday, May 15, 2011
God's Favor
5-16-2011 by Boyd Bailey
God’s Favor
“Blessed is the man who listens to me [wisdom], watching daily at my doors, waiting at my doorway. For whoever finds me finds life and receives favor from the Lord.” Proverbs 8:34-35
God’s favor is the fruit of friends who find wisdom. They seek wisdom by first watching at the doors of heaven and waiting patiently at the feet of their Savior Jesus. It is humbling to think each day Almighty God is available to commission our cause for Christ. The wisdom of Jesus is what we pursue, because His is pure and profound.
Like Abel, the Almighty looks for the best offering to blessing. Therefore, honor God by offering Him the first fruits of your day. Just as He deserves “first dibs” on your money, so He expects the beginning of your day. Get up and go to God first. There you discover a wealth of wisdom, and under the shadow of your Savior Jesus Christ you receive His favor.
Happiness happens to those who wait for wisdom. His blessing cannot be rushed, so rest in Him. The favor of God is absolutely worth the wait; like the arrival of a newborn, the joy is unspeakable. How many times have we rushed ahead outside the canopy of Christ’s blessing? The Israelites learned to stay under the cloud of God and be lead by faith.
Indeed, there is no spiritual oxygen to sustain those in an “out of favor” environment. It is lifeless and lonely. However, for those on whom their Heavenly Father’s favor rests, there is rest. His blessing provides strength for the journey, and perseverance to stay on the trail of trust. Jesus experienced the favor of His Heavenly Father when He submitted to public baptism (His confession of faith) and His commitment to public service (His commission to ministry).
In what issue of obedience do you need wisdom in order to continually experience the favor of your Heavenly Father? Your life is alive and vibrant, because the Lord favors you. You are a favorite of your Heavenly Father, because you are learning to wait on Him and to humbly walk with the wise.
The Bible says, “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” (Micah 6:8, NASB).
How can I make sure to stay “bless-able” and in a position to receive God’s favor?
Related Readings: Genesis 4:4; Exodus 33:12; Luke 2:52; Philippians 3:8
God’s Favor
“Blessed is the man who listens to me [wisdom], watching daily at my doors, waiting at my doorway. For whoever finds me finds life and receives favor from the Lord.” Proverbs 8:34-35
God’s favor is the fruit of friends who find wisdom. They seek wisdom by first watching at the doors of heaven and waiting patiently at the feet of their Savior Jesus. It is humbling to think each day Almighty God is available to commission our cause for Christ. The wisdom of Jesus is what we pursue, because His is pure and profound.
Like Abel, the Almighty looks for the best offering to blessing. Therefore, honor God by offering Him the first fruits of your day. Just as He deserves “first dibs” on your money, so He expects the beginning of your day. Get up and go to God first. There you discover a wealth of wisdom, and under the shadow of your Savior Jesus Christ you receive His favor.
Happiness happens to those who wait for wisdom. His blessing cannot be rushed, so rest in Him. The favor of God is absolutely worth the wait; like the arrival of a newborn, the joy is unspeakable. How many times have we rushed ahead outside the canopy of Christ’s blessing? The Israelites learned to stay under the cloud of God and be lead by faith.
Indeed, there is no spiritual oxygen to sustain those in an “out of favor” environment. It is lifeless and lonely. However, for those on whom their Heavenly Father’s favor rests, there is rest. His blessing provides strength for the journey, and perseverance to stay on the trail of trust. Jesus experienced the favor of His Heavenly Father when He submitted to public baptism (His confession of faith) and His commitment to public service (His commission to ministry).
In what issue of obedience do you need wisdom in order to continually experience the favor of your Heavenly Father? Your life is alive and vibrant, because the Lord favors you. You are a favorite of your Heavenly Father, because you are learning to wait on Him and to humbly walk with the wise.
The Bible says, “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” (Micah 6:8, NASB).
How can I make sure to stay “bless-able” and in a position to receive God’s favor?
Related Readings: Genesis 4:4; Exodus 33:12; Luke 2:52; Philippians 3:8
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Giant Opportunities
5-14-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Giant Opportunities
“The LORD said to Moses, ‘Send some men to explore the land of Canaan, which I am giving to the Israelites.…’ Then Caleb silenced the people before Moses and said, ‘We should go up and take possession of the land, for we can certainly do it.’ But the men who had gone up with him said, ‘We can't attack those people; they are stronger than we are.’” Numbers 13:1a, 30-31
As we face life, we can be overwhelmed by its giant obstacles, or be inspired by its giant opportunities. Challenges and uncertainty tend to corrode our confidence. It is in the face of the unknown that we can move forward by faith, or backward in disbelief. What giant obstacles are you facing? How can your obstacles be converted into opportunities? Obstacles are stepping stones for obedient feet to follow.
Therefore, with aggressive patience, stay focused and you will eventually see some obstacles dissolve, and others transformed into treasures. Maybe a financial giant is looming large as an intimidating obstacle? If so, stay true to your integrity by not selectively suspending your core values for needed results. Instead, remain faithful to wise stewardship and honesty, and the right results will follow at the right time. Trust God to use scary giants for His glory.
God orchestrates giant opportunities for His greater good. He told Moses that He was giving His children the promise land; all they had to do was show up and receive His gift. Giant opportunities do require faith, planning, perseverance and hard work, as the reward of obedience and trust in the Lord is enough. So how are you facing the giants in your life; as obstacles or opportunities? Leaders look and pray for opportunities, and then explore them with energy and enthusiasm.
Your relentless leadership inspires your family, friends and work associates to remain faithful and to not freak out. Therefore, take the land of opportunity the Lord has given you. Difficult days and economic challenges are greater opportunities for God to get the glory. So be aggressive, increase your efforts, pound heaven in prayer and by faith receive what your Savior Jesus has already given you. Go after the giant opportunities with gusto and by God’s grace.
The Bible says, “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13, NASB).
What giant obstacle do I have in which I can trust God to make an opportunity?
Related Readings: Joshua 14:6-8; Isaiah 41:10-16; Romans 8:31-37; Hebrews 11:33
Giant Opportunities
“The LORD said to Moses, ‘Send some men to explore the land of Canaan, which I am giving to the Israelites.…’ Then Caleb silenced the people before Moses and said, ‘We should go up and take possession of the land, for we can certainly do it.’ But the men who had gone up with him said, ‘We can't attack those people; they are stronger than we are.’” Numbers 13:1a, 30-31
As we face life, we can be overwhelmed by its giant obstacles, or be inspired by its giant opportunities. Challenges and uncertainty tend to corrode our confidence. It is in the face of the unknown that we can move forward by faith, or backward in disbelief. What giant obstacles are you facing? How can your obstacles be converted into opportunities? Obstacles are stepping stones for obedient feet to follow.
Therefore, with aggressive patience, stay focused and you will eventually see some obstacles dissolve, and others transformed into treasures. Maybe a financial giant is looming large as an intimidating obstacle? If so, stay true to your integrity by not selectively suspending your core values for needed results. Instead, remain faithful to wise stewardship and honesty, and the right results will follow at the right time. Trust God to use scary giants for His glory.
God orchestrates giant opportunities for His greater good. He told Moses that He was giving His children the promise land; all they had to do was show up and receive His gift. Giant opportunities do require faith, planning, perseverance and hard work, as the reward of obedience and trust in the Lord is enough. So how are you facing the giants in your life; as obstacles or opportunities? Leaders look and pray for opportunities, and then explore them with energy and enthusiasm.
Your relentless leadership inspires your family, friends and work associates to remain faithful and to not freak out. Therefore, take the land of opportunity the Lord has given you. Difficult days and economic challenges are greater opportunities for God to get the glory. So be aggressive, increase your efforts, pound heaven in prayer and by faith receive what your Savior Jesus has already given you. Go after the giant opportunities with gusto and by God’s grace.
The Bible says, “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13, NASB).
What giant obstacle do I have in which I can trust God to make an opportunity?
Related Readings: Joshua 14:6-8; Isaiah 41:10-16; Romans 8:31-37; Hebrews 11:33
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Value Highly
5-11-2011
Value Highly by Boyd Bailey
“The Pharisees, who loved money, heard all this and were sneering at Jesus. He said to them, “You are the ones who justify yourselves in the eyes of others, but God knows your hearts. What people value highly is detestable in God’s sight.” Luke 16:14-15
God’s value system contrasts with man’s value system. Man values money over relationship—God values relationship over money. Man values gaining power—God values giving power. Man values temporal possessions—God values eternal rewards. Man values recognition—God values anonymity. What God values—brings value.
Indeed, ascribed value prescribes behavior. So, what do you value highly? Perhaps in the past it was the voice of people’s praise that you pursued, but now you understand the futility of this vain pursuit. It’s the caring affirmation from Almighty God that brings peace, fulfillment and security. People’s praise is unpredictable and changeable, but Christ’s praise is consistent and valid. You live in quiet confidence when the acceptance of Jesus is what you value highly.
“Having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, to the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved” (Ephesians 1:5-6, NKJV).
Since ascribed value prescribes behavior—then how we relate to money reflects the value we place on our relationship with God. It is detestable to our Lord, if we are driven to make more dollars in deference to growing in our relationship with Christ. What captures your heart—money or your Master Jesus? He knows your heart— and He knows if your fear of not having enough money has replaced simple faith in His provision. Thus, trust your Savior not your stuff.
The love of money is a rough romance. Communication is non-existent and the relationship never finds true fulfillment. The misguided love of money only leads to disappoint and relational wreckage. However, a love relationship with Jesus gets to the heart of God and all His benefits which money cannot buy. Wisdom values what’s valuable.
Money can buy a house, but only prayer can produce peace in a home. Money can buy a car for transportation, but only faith in Jesus Christ can transport you to heaven for eternity. Money can buy fun trips, but trust in the Lord opens the door for the greatest adventure found through His abundant life. Money is a compliant servant, but a cruel Master. Ascribed value prescribes behavior, so value the most highly, your relationship with God.
“He [Moses] regarded disgrace for the sake of Christ as of greater value than the treasures of Egypt, because he was looking ahead to his reward” (Hebrews 11:26).
What do I value the most in my life? Does it have eternal significance?
Related Readings: 1 Samuel 26:24; Proverbs 10:2, 20; Matthew 13:46; Luke 7:2
Value Highly by Boyd Bailey
“The Pharisees, who loved money, heard all this and were sneering at Jesus. He said to them, “You are the ones who justify yourselves in the eyes of others, but God knows your hearts. What people value highly is detestable in God’s sight.” Luke 16:14-15
God’s value system contrasts with man’s value system. Man values money over relationship—God values relationship over money. Man values gaining power—God values giving power. Man values temporal possessions—God values eternal rewards. Man values recognition—God values anonymity. What God values—brings value.
Indeed, ascribed value prescribes behavior. So, what do you value highly? Perhaps in the past it was the voice of people’s praise that you pursued, but now you understand the futility of this vain pursuit. It’s the caring affirmation from Almighty God that brings peace, fulfillment and security. People’s praise is unpredictable and changeable, but Christ’s praise is consistent and valid. You live in quiet confidence when the acceptance of Jesus is what you value highly.
“Having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, to the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved” (Ephesians 1:5-6, NKJV).
Since ascribed value prescribes behavior—then how we relate to money reflects the value we place on our relationship with God. It is detestable to our Lord, if we are driven to make more dollars in deference to growing in our relationship with Christ. What captures your heart—money or your Master Jesus? He knows your heart— and He knows if your fear of not having enough money has replaced simple faith in His provision. Thus, trust your Savior not your stuff.
The love of money is a rough romance. Communication is non-existent and the relationship never finds true fulfillment. The misguided love of money only leads to disappoint and relational wreckage. However, a love relationship with Jesus gets to the heart of God and all His benefits which money cannot buy. Wisdom values what’s valuable.
Money can buy a house, but only prayer can produce peace in a home. Money can buy a car for transportation, but only faith in Jesus Christ can transport you to heaven for eternity. Money can buy fun trips, but trust in the Lord opens the door for the greatest adventure found through His abundant life. Money is a compliant servant, but a cruel Master. Ascribed value prescribes behavior, so value the most highly, your relationship with God.
“He [Moses] regarded disgrace for the sake of Christ as of greater value than the treasures of Egypt, because he was looking ahead to his reward” (Hebrews 11:26).
What do I value the most in my life? Does it have eternal significance?
Related Readings: 1 Samuel 26:24; Proverbs 10:2, 20; Matthew 13:46; Luke 7:2
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Jesus Clears The Temple
5-10-2011
Jesus Clears the Temple
The world has done a pretty good job of painting Jesus out to be about as weak as can be. People picture Jesus to be a pushover that walks around being a peace maker, when in fact Jesus Christ was about as blunt and transparent as could be. Yes He desired peace, but when someone or some group acted in an Ungodly manner, He took action!
Matthew 21:12-17 says the following:
“12Jesus entered the temple area and drove out all who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the benches of those selling doves. 13"It is written," he said to them, " 'My house will be called a house of prayer,' but you are making it a 'den of robbers."
14The blind and the lame came to him at the temple, and he healed them. 15But when the chief priests and the teachers of the law saw the wonderful things he did and the children shouting in the temple area, "Hosanna to the Son of David," they were indignant.
16"Do you hear what these children are saying?" they asked him.
"Yes," replied Jesus, "have you never read,
" 'From the lips of children and infants
you have ordained praise'?"
17And he left them and went out of the city to Bethany, where he spent the night.”
Very rarely do we hear about Jesus clearing out a Temple and overturning tables! Jesus is a bold man of passion that only stands for what’s right. He was and is the toughest person to ever walk the earth, and there’s a lot to be learned from this lesson. As Christ followers, we should learn to be bold in what’s right, and do the hard right thing all the time. Jesus overturned the tables for many reasons, but the primary reason is the money changers were interfering with people’s ability to worship God. What do you need to “overturn” that prevents you from worshiping God to the fullest? Is your schedule too crammed with meetings to make time for the most important things such as faith and family? Let’s live each day with a focus on what’s true and right, keeping things in perspective at all times!
Jesus Clears the Temple
The world has done a pretty good job of painting Jesus out to be about as weak as can be. People picture Jesus to be a pushover that walks around being a peace maker, when in fact Jesus Christ was about as blunt and transparent as could be. Yes He desired peace, but when someone or some group acted in an Ungodly manner, He took action!
Matthew 21:12-17 says the following:
“12Jesus entered the temple area and drove out all who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the benches of those selling doves. 13"It is written," he said to them, " 'My house will be called a house of prayer,' but you are making it a 'den of robbers."
14The blind and the lame came to him at the temple, and he healed them. 15But when the chief priests and the teachers of the law saw the wonderful things he did and the children shouting in the temple area, "Hosanna to the Son of David," they were indignant.
16"Do you hear what these children are saying?" they asked him.
"Yes," replied Jesus, "have you never read,
" 'From the lips of children and infants
you have ordained praise'?"
17And he left them and went out of the city to Bethany, where he spent the night.”
Very rarely do we hear about Jesus clearing out a Temple and overturning tables! Jesus is a bold man of passion that only stands for what’s right. He was and is the toughest person to ever walk the earth, and there’s a lot to be learned from this lesson. As Christ followers, we should learn to be bold in what’s right, and do the hard right thing all the time. Jesus overturned the tables for many reasons, but the primary reason is the money changers were interfering with people’s ability to worship God. What do you need to “overturn” that prevents you from worshiping God to the fullest? Is your schedule too crammed with meetings to make time for the most important things such as faith and family? Let’s live each day with a focus on what’s true and right, keeping things in perspective at all times!
Monday, May 9, 2011
Triumph Over Tragedy
5-9-2011
Triumph Over Tragedy by Boyd Bailey
“Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” Romans 8:35, 37
Tragedy can strike life like the touching down of a tornado or the detonation of a terrorist bomb. Famines, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and tsunamis all gain momentum in the last days. There are wars and rumors of wars. Indeed, hardship does not discriminate between the rich or poor, the educated or uneducated and the righteous or the unrighteous.
What happens to our faith when circumstances come crashing down around us like the collapsing of the walls in our home? Do we persevere through the floundering of our finances and the relational wreckage left behind in the wake of a divorce? It’s easy to be a Christian when life is on cruise control, but real life has twists and turns that requires trust.
Thanks be to God—that nothing can separate us from the love of Christ! His love is a bridge over troubled waters, His love is a ladder out of the pit of pride, His love is the resilience to rise above the pain of rejection, His love leads us peacefully through the valley of the shadow of death—indeed the love of Christ conquers all circumstances!
“May the Lord direct your hearts into God’s love and Christ’s perseverance” (2 Thessalonians 3:5).
Who are you aware of—who has lost everything? Perhaps they are a brother or sister in Christ who lives hundreds of miles away, but they still need a helping hand, financial relief and the undergirding of persistent and passionate prayer. When one part of the Body of Christ suffers, so the entire Body suffers. It’s out of the ashes of adversity that our Savior Jesus is on exhibit to offer eternal life to those trapped in their temporal world.
“I urge you, brothers and sisters, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to join me in my struggle by praying to God for me” (Romans 15:30).
The tragedy of suffering is the Lord’s opportunity to bring relief. He releases the army of the righteous to serve in unrighteous situations. The window of hard times is open for a moment, so the Church can be the Church, and all the world can see the compassion of Christ at work—quietly, but boldly, believers bring help on earth and hope in heaven. You are more than conquerors of tragic circumstances through Christ who loves you!
“This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters” (1 John 3:16).
How can I lean into the love of the Lord during lean times and seek out others to love?
Related Readings: Ephesians 3:17-18; 2 Corinthians 5:14, 13:14; 1 John 3:23
Triumph Over Tragedy by Boyd Bailey
“Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” Romans 8:35, 37
Tragedy can strike life like the touching down of a tornado or the detonation of a terrorist bomb. Famines, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and tsunamis all gain momentum in the last days. There are wars and rumors of wars. Indeed, hardship does not discriminate between the rich or poor, the educated or uneducated and the righteous or the unrighteous.
What happens to our faith when circumstances come crashing down around us like the collapsing of the walls in our home? Do we persevere through the floundering of our finances and the relational wreckage left behind in the wake of a divorce? It’s easy to be a Christian when life is on cruise control, but real life has twists and turns that requires trust.
Thanks be to God—that nothing can separate us from the love of Christ! His love is a bridge over troubled waters, His love is a ladder out of the pit of pride, His love is the resilience to rise above the pain of rejection, His love leads us peacefully through the valley of the shadow of death—indeed the love of Christ conquers all circumstances!
“May the Lord direct your hearts into God’s love and Christ’s perseverance” (2 Thessalonians 3:5).
Who are you aware of—who has lost everything? Perhaps they are a brother or sister in Christ who lives hundreds of miles away, but they still need a helping hand, financial relief and the undergirding of persistent and passionate prayer. When one part of the Body of Christ suffers, so the entire Body suffers. It’s out of the ashes of adversity that our Savior Jesus is on exhibit to offer eternal life to those trapped in their temporal world.
“I urge you, brothers and sisters, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to join me in my struggle by praying to God for me” (Romans 15:30).
The tragedy of suffering is the Lord’s opportunity to bring relief. He releases the army of the righteous to serve in unrighteous situations. The window of hard times is open for a moment, so the Church can be the Church, and all the world can see the compassion of Christ at work—quietly, but boldly, believers bring help on earth and hope in heaven. You are more than conquerors of tragic circumstances through Christ who loves you!
“This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters” (1 John 3:16).
How can I lean into the love of the Lord during lean times and seek out others to love?
Related Readings: Ephesians 3:17-18; 2 Corinthians 5:14, 13:14; 1 John 3:23
Friday, May 6, 2011
The Samaritan Woman
5-6-2011
The Samaritan Woman
John 4:1-26 says the following:
“1The Pharisees heard that Jesus was gaining and baptizing more disciples than John, 2although in fact it was not Jesus who baptized, but his disciples. 3When the Lord learned of this, he left Judea and went back once more to Galilee.
4Now he had to go through Samaria. 5So he came to a town in Samaria called Sychar, near the plot of ground Jacob had given to his son Joseph. 6Jacob's well was there, and Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well. It was about the sixth hour.
7When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, "Will you give me a drink?" 8(His disciples had gone into the town to buy food.)
9The Samaritan woman said to him, "You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?" (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans.)
10Jesus answered her, "If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water."
11"Sir," the woman said, "you have nothing to draw with and the well is deep. Where can you get this living water? 12Are you greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did also his sons and his flocks and herds?"
13Jesus answered, "Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, 14but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life."
15The woman said to him, "Sir, give me this water so that I won't get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water."
16He told her, "Go, call your husband and come back."
17"I have no husband," she replied.
Jesus said to her, "You are right when you say you have no husband. 18The fact is, you have had five husbands, and the man you now have is not your husband. What you have just said is quite true."
19"Sir," the woman said, "I can see that you are a prophet. 20Our fathers worshiped on this mountain, but you Jews claim that the place where we must worship is in Jerusalem."
21Jesus declared, "Believe me, woman, a time is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. 22You Samaritans worship what you do not know; we worship what we do know, for salvation is from the Jews. 23Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. 24God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth."
25The woman said, "I know that Messiah" (called Christ) "is coming. When he comes, he will explain everything to us."
26Then Jesus declared, "I who speak to you am he."
Just as our bodies long for water and food, our soul longs for spiritual nourishment. We are excellent at thinking in the temporal sense, when God desires for us to focus on the eternal. The Samaritan women couldn’t seem to grasp what Jesus was telling her. All she could think about was water, while Jesus informed her how to feed her soul.
What’s your spiritual diet? Is your soul being fed what it needs?
The Samaritan Woman
John 4:1-26 says the following:
“1The Pharisees heard that Jesus was gaining and baptizing more disciples than John, 2although in fact it was not Jesus who baptized, but his disciples. 3When the Lord learned of this, he left Judea and went back once more to Galilee.
4Now he had to go through Samaria. 5So he came to a town in Samaria called Sychar, near the plot of ground Jacob had given to his son Joseph. 6Jacob's well was there, and Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well. It was about the sixth hour.
7When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, "Will you give me a drink?" 8(His disciples had gone into the town to buy food.)
9The Samaritan woman said to him, "You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?" (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans.)
10Jesus answered her, "If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water."
11"Sir," the woman said, "you have nothing to draw with and the well is deep. Where can you get this living water? 12Are you greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did also his sons and his flocks and herds?"
13Jesus answered, "Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, 14but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life."
15The woman said to him, "Sir, give me this water so that I won't get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water."
16He told her, "Go, call your husband and come back."
17"I have no husband," she replied.
Jesus said to her, "You are right when you say you have no husband. 18The fact is, you have had five husbands, and the man you now have is not your husband. What you have just said is quite true."
19"Sir," the woman said, "I can see that you are a prophet. 20Our fathers worshiped on this mountain, but you Jews claim that the place where we must worship is in Jerusalem."
21Jesus declared, "Believe me, woman, a time is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. 22You Samaritans worship what you do not know; we worship what we do know, for salvation is from the Jews. 23Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. 24God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth."
25The woman said, "I know that Messiah" (called Christ) "is coming. When he comes, he will explain everything to us."
26Then Jesus declared, "I who speak to you am he."
Just as our bodies long for water and food, our soul longs for spiritual nourishment. We are excellent at thinking in the temporal sense, when God desires for us to focus on the eternal. The Samaritan women couldn’t seem to grasp what Jesus was telling her. All she could think about was water, while Jesus informed her how to feed her soul.
What’s your spiritual diet? Is your soul being fed what it needs?
Thursday, May 5, 2011
A Mother's Prayer
5-5-2011 by Boyd Bailey
A Mother’s Prayer
“‘I prayed for this child, and the LORD has granted me what I asked of him. So now I give him to the LORD. For his whole life he will be given over to the LORD.’ And he worshiped the LORD there” (1 Samuel 1:27-28).
A mother who prays causes Satan to shutter and his demons to take notice. It is her steady stream of supplications to her Savior Jesus that garners the attention of God. Dad may not be around, but her Heavenly Father is there for wisdom and encouragement. She knows the Lord understands, so she seeks Him for grace and comfort. The prayer of a mom passes through the portals of heaven with passionate petitions that provide her peace.
She may aspire to be a mother, but is struggling with the ability to conceive. Her heart breaks for the opportunity to be with child. Her prayers are pregnant with the desire to become pregnant, and Christ, the giver of life, listens compassionately and patiently to her pleas. A woman with a barren womb is meant to walk with the Lord during this time of feeling failure and rejection. So she prays for a child, and in the process He loves on His child.
A mother’s prayers mark her family with faith and trust in God. Her overflow of mercy and grace is a reminder that Jesus is the “author and finisher” of the family’s faith. The fruit from her prayers personify Christ’s character, and hell clamors at the calm requests from a mom who trusts God. She prays for her children to obey and worship the Lord, and for her husband to fear God, hate sin, and love people. A mom’s prayer matters.
Consider a prayer journal to capture Christ’s faithfulness to your faith appeals. Pray for your children by name and lift each of their unique needs to the Lord. Pray for your husband’s submission to the accountability of Almighty God. Indeed, a wise mother’s first concern is prayer in Jesus’s name.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” (Philippians 4:6).
Do I constantly worry, or do I apply that same energy to passionate prayer?’
Related Readings: Psalm 66:16-19; Isaiah 28:9; Luke 22:2-3; Acts 1:14
A Mother’s Prayer
“‘I prayed for this child, and the LORD has granted me what I asked of him. So now I give him to the LORD. For his whole life he will be given over to the LORD.’ And he worshiped the LORD there” (1 Samuel 1:27-28).
A mother who prays causes Satan to shutter and his demons to take notice. It is her steady stream of supplications to her Savior Jesus that garners the attention of God. Dad may not be around, but her Heavenly Father is there for wisdom and encouragement. She knows the Lord understands, so she seeks Him for grace and comfort. The prayer of a mom passes through the portals of heaven with passionate petitions that provide her peace.
She may aspire to be a mother, but is struggling with the ability to conceive. Her heart breaks for the opportunity to be with child. Her prayers are pregnant with the desire to become pregnant, and Christ, the giver of life, listens compassionately and patiently to her pleas. A woman with a barren womb is meant to walk with the Lord during this time of feeling failure and rejection. So she prays for a child, and in the process He loves on His child.
A mother’s prayers mark her family with faith and trust in God. Her overflow of mercy and grace is a reminder that Jesus is the “author and finisher” of the family’s faith. The fruit from her prayers personify Christ’s character, and hell clamors at the calm requests from a mom who trusts God. She prays for her children to obey and worship the Lord, and for her husband to fear God, hate sin, and love people. A mom’s prayer matters.
Consider a prayer journal to capture Christ’s faithfulness to your faith appeals. Pray for your children by name and lift each of their unique needs to the Lord. Pray for your husband’s submission to the accountability of Almighty God. Indeed, a wise mother’s first concern is prayer in Jesus’s name.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” (Philippians 4:6).
Do I constantly worry, or do I apply that same energy to passionate prayer?’
Related Readings: Psalm 66:16-19; Isaiah 28:9; Luke 22:2-3; Acts 1:14
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Life Purpose
5-4-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Life Purpose
Here’s a great devotional from Wisdom Hunters. Enjoy!
Life Purpose… “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16, NKJV
What is your life purpose? What is the Lord’s life purpose for you? Perhaps a good starting point is to glorify God. Glory to God keeps the glory from going to a person, team or institution. It is built-in accountability against pride and envy. Glory to God gives Him the credit due His name and it shows the world who is responsible for your success.
I like what one friend said, “I want to glorify God by loving Him completely, loving myself correctly and loving others compassionately” (Ken Boa). The object of our affections receives our attention and energy. And when our motivation behind our efforts is to glorify God, it causes curiosity around those affected. Who is this Lord you love? Why do you have such confidence that Christ cares? How can I experience God like you?
Good works, attached to God’s glory, gives a greater purpose to the recipient of grace. “If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.” (1 Peter 4:11). As you humbly serve you are able to show others what Jesus is like.
So consider crafting a purpose statement that reflects the Lord’s plan for your life. Use it as a compass to keep you aligned around the Almighty’s priorities for this season of life. Perhaps you write it out and develop its meaning for your children to understand and embrace. Search the Scriptures and find a verse or verses that define your purpose. My purpose is to “Glorify God by being a faithful husband, available father, loyal friend and loving leader.” What’s yours? God brings success when you fulfill His purpose.
“For a long time now—to this very day—you have not deserted your brothers but have carried out the mission the LORD your God gave you” (Joshua 22:3).
What is God’s purpose for my life? How can I best bring Him glory in fulfilling His purpose?
Related Readings: Psalm 19:1; Isaiah 60:19; John 11:4; Romans 4:20
Life Purpose
Here’s a great devotional from Wisdom Hunters. Enjoy!
Life Purpose… “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16, NKJV
What is your life purpose? What is the Lord’s life purpose for you? Perhaps a good starting point is to glorify God. Glory to God keeps the glory from going to a person, team or institution. It is built-in accountability against pride and envy. Glory to God gives Him the credit due His name and it shows the world who is responsible for your success.
I like what one friend said, “I want to glorify God by loving Him completely, loving myself correctly and loving others compassionately” (Ken Boa). The object of our affections receives our attention and energy. And when our motivation behind our efforts is to glorify God, it causes curiosity around those affected. Who is this Lord you love? Why do you have such confidence that Christ cares? How can I experience God like you?
Good works, attached to God’s glory, gives a greater purpose to the recipient of grace. “If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.” (1 Peter 4:11). As you humbly serve you are able to show others what Jesus is like.
So consider crafting a purpose statement that reflects the Lord’s plan for your life. Use it as a compass to keep you aligned around the Almighty’s priorities for this season of life. Perhaps you write it out and develop its meaning for your children to understand and embrace. Search the Scriptures and find a verse or verses that define your purpose. My purpose is to “Glorify God by being a faithful husband, available father, loyal friend and loving leader.” What’s yours? God brings success when you fulfill His purpose.
“For a long time now—to this very day—you have not deserted your brothers but have carried out the mission the LORD your God gave you” (Joshua 22:3).
What is God’s purpose for my life? How can I best bring Him glory in fulfilling His purpose?
Related Readings: Psalm 19:1; Isaiah 60:19; John 11:4; Romans 4:20
Monday, May 2, 2011
Best Effort
5-3-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Best Effort
“She did what she could. She poured perfume on my body beforehand to prepare for my burial.” Mark 14:8
God expects our best, nothing more, nothing less. Our best plus God’s best is a productive combination. Indeed, we can fall into the false belief that God will take care of everything without our efforts. Or, we can take on the unnecessary stress that everything depends on us, without thoroughly trusting in the Lord. Neither is healthy nor right—He simply expects our best—He understands our limitations.
Your stage of life, giftedness, experience, availability and wisdom all determine your capacity. The ability of others is more or less than yours, so let the Lord define what you can or cannot do. There will always be opportunities, but measure each engagement with your ability to give it your best. Do not commit to something under duress, knowing that your ability to deliver is sorely limited. Instead, have confidence in God to say ‘no’ now in preparation for a ‘yes’ later.
Indeed, giving it your best is all that is required by God. Once you have done what you could, you can trust Him with the results, so do not beat yourself up. Self-flagellation will not gain you points with God or people. They will replace respect for you with pity. On the other hand, do not become puffed up over your best. There is always another person who has done or will do better. Thus, rest in the fact that you have glorified God and brought others into His healing influence.
“Great crowds came to him, bringing the lame, the blind, the crippled, the mute and many others, and laid them at his feet; and he healed them” (Matthew 15:30).
Our best mixed with God’s best is dynamic. Yes, we have limitations. We can only do what we can do, but with God all things are possible. He can arrange circumstances, relationships and resources that intersect with your best. All of a sudden your best, plus the best of others, plus God’s best leverages outcomes you never dreamed could happen. Your “small gift” given to teach abstinence to teens in Africa will yield one result, but that same gift, combined with generous friends, way more exceeds a 100-fold result.
Furthermore, your decision to do less may accomplish a lot more. It may accomplish more if you focus on becoming an expert in your field of work, Why settle for the wilderness of simple addition when you can celebrate the promised land of complex multiplication? Your best effort, blessed by God, brings eternal results.
Your best is a valuable resource. Use it for others and to serve God’s Kingdom. The more you exercise your best, the better you become. Your best may become the best, so by God’s grace you become an expert in your field. Take what you have—dedicate it to Jesus—do what you can, and trust God with the rest. Dismiss the noise of the crowds’ criticism and listen for His approval. People will be amazed and praise the Lord!
“Everyone was amazed and gave praise to God. They were filled with awe and said, “We have seen remarkable things today” (Luke 5:26).
What can I sacrificially give back—what God has given me—all for His glory?
Related Readings: 1 Chronicles 29:6; Proverbs 25:14; Luke 9:13; Romans 12:6;
Best Effort
“She did what she could. She poured perfume on my body beforehand to prepare for my burial.” Mark 14:8
God expects our best, nothing more, nothing less. Our best plus God’s best is a productive combination. Indeed, we can fall into the false belief that God will take care of everything without our efforts. Or, we can take on the unnecessary stress that everything depends on us, without thoroughly trusting in the Lord. Neither is healthy nor right—He simply expects our best—He understands our limitations.
Your stage of life, giftedness, experience, availability and wisdom all determine your capacity. The ability of others is more or less than yours, so let the Lord define what you can or cannot do. There will always be opportunities, but measure each engagement with your ability to give it your best. Do not commit to something under duress, knowing that your ability to deliver is sorely limited. Instead, have confidence in God to say ‘no’ now in preparation for a ‘yes’ later.
Indeed, giving it your best is all that is required by God. Once you have done what you could, you can trust Him with the results, so do not beat yourself up. Self-flagellation will not gain you points with God or people. They will replace respect for you with pity. On the other hand, do not become puffed up over your best. There is always another person who has done or will do better. Thus, rest in the fact that you have glorified God and brought others into His healing influence.
“Great crowds came to him, bringing the lame, the blind, the crippled, the mute and many others, and laid them at his feet; and he healed them” (Matthew 15:30).
Our best mixed with God’s best is dynamic. Yes, we have limitations. We can only do what we can do, but with God all things are possible. He can arrange circumstances, relationships and resources that intersect with your best. All of a sudden your best, plus the best of others, plus God’s best leverages outcomes you never dreamed could happen. Your “small gift” given to teach abstinence to teens in Africa will yield one result, but that same gift, combined with generous friends, way more exceeds a 100-fold result.
Furthermore, your decision to do less may accomplish a lot more. It may accomplish more if you focus on becoming an expert in your field of work, Why settle for the wilderness of simple addition when you can celebrate the promised land of complex multiplication? Your best effort, blessed by God, brings eternal results.
Your best is a valuable resource. Use it for others and to serve God’s Kingdom. The more you exercise your best, the better you become. Your best may become the best, so by God’s grace you become an expert in your field. Take what you have—dedicate it to Jesus—do what you can, and trust God with the rest. Dismiss the noise of the crowds’ criticism and listen for His approval. People will be amazed and praise the Lord!
“Everyone was amazed and gave praise to God. They were filled with awe and said, “We have seen remarkable things today” (Luke 5:26).
What can I sacrificially give back—what God has given me—all for His glory?
Related Readings: 1 Chronicles 29:6; Proverbs 25:14; Luke 9:13; Romans 12:6;
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Pay Attention
5-2-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Pay Attention
“The Lord will make you the head, not the tail. If you pay attention to the commands of the Lord your God that I give you this day and carefully follow them, you will always be at the top, never at the bottom.” Deuteronomy 28:13
Pay attention to God’s voice and to His directives. His ways are the best ways. His ways are the wisest ways. Most of His commands are clear as a bell. You do not need a Greek lexicon to understand “love God” and “love people.” His principles for living are for our good. Seeking godly counsel is for your good. Do not seek out advice from those who will just tell you what you want to hear.
Solicit wisdom from those who diligently apply God’s Word to their daily lives. You need those around you who will prescribe Scripture to your life. They may offer God’s truth with tough love or tender care. Be extremely grateful for both. It is the truth of heaven that transcends your life and confirms your heart and mind into Christ-likeness.
Therefore, pay attention to what God is saying through others. You may not want to hear what they are saying, but still listen. Allow your anger to subside for a moment, so the Lord’s way of doing things can give you a much-needed perspective. The enemy is not your spouse, your child or yourself. You are not sleeping with the enemy, though the enemy does seek to dupe you into this delusion.
The enemy is the master of deception, the devil himself. Therefore, fight for your family and not against them. Fight the enemies of anger, distrust, disrespect and lovelessness. Love does cover a multitude of sins. Apply it liberally and lavishly. Love unconditionally and others will respond accordingly. Pay attention to applying the love of Christ. As He loves in you and through you, you are capable to love others with the same passion and persistence.
Also, pay attention to God’s work around you. Your circumstances are part of His greater canvas of creation. Your situation is part of God’s plan to accomplish His larger purpose for your life. Do not get sucked into the short-term setbacks; instead, keep the fires of faith burning. This momentary affliction is but for a season. You may be experiencing God’s discipline so you know how to develop your own discipline.
Or, this pause may be needed to involve others whom God would have you to bless. See your current circumstances as part of God’s bigger plan. Pay attention to where He has you. Do not become preoccupied with where you want to be. Be faithful today and tomorrow will take care of itself. It is all in God’s timing. You can trust His timing. Indeed, pay attention to the little things.
Be excellent around mundane and insignificant issues. Like carefully crafted bricks of a sidewalk lead to a large and inviting home, faithfulness in the little matters leads to larger opportunities. Moreover, pay attention to your soul. If it is sick and tired, allow God’s love and grace to nurse it back to a robust and engaging condition.
Your life will be limited unless you pay attention to your soul care. This caps your capacity prematurely. An unkept soul is like an unkept engine—eventually the car quits running, and so shall your life. Solitude, planning, thinking, meditation, confession and repentance will do for your soul what a healthy diet, rest and exercise do for your body. Treat it well. Pay attention to what matters. God matters most. First pay attention to Him, and you will not lack passion paying attention to His prevailing priorities. Paying attention pays!
Pay Attention
“The Lord will make you the head, not the tail. If you pay attention to the commands of the Lord your God that I give you this day and carefully follow them, you will always be at the top, never at the bottom.” Deuteronomy 28:13
Pay attention to God’s voice and to His directives. His ways are the best ways. His ways are the wisest ways. Most of His commands are clear as a bell. You do not need a Greek lexicon to understand “love God” and “love people.” His principles for living are for our good. Seeking godly counsel is for your good. Do not seek out advice from those who will just tell you what you want to hear.
Solicit wisdom from those who diligently apply God’s Word to their daily lives. You need those around you who will prescribe Scripture to your life. They may offer God’s truth with tough love or tender care. Be extremely grateful for both. It is the truth of heaven that transcends your life and confirms your heart and mind into Christ-likeness.
Therefore, pay attention to what God is saying through others. You may not want to hear what they are saying, but still listen. Allow your anger to subside for a moment, so the Lord’s way of doing things can give you a much-needed perspective. The enemy is not your spouse, your child or yourself. You are not sleeping with the enemy, though the enemy does seek to dupe you into this delusion.
The enemy is the master of deception, the devil himself. Therefore, fight for your family and not against them. Fight the enemies of anger, distrust, disrespect and lovelessness. Love does cover a multitude of sins. Apply it liberally and lavishly. Love unconditionally and others will respond accordingly. Pay attention to applying the love of Christ. As He loves in you and through you, you are capable to love others with the same passion and persistence.
Also, pay attention to God’s work around you. Your circumstances are part of His greater canvas of creation. Your situation is part of God’s plan to accomplish His larger purpose for your life. Do not get sucked into the short-term setbacks; instead, keep the fires of faith burning. This momentary affliction is but for a season. You may be experiencing God’s discipline so you know how to develop your own discipline.
Or, this pause may be needed to involve others whom God would have you to bless. See your current circumstances as part of God’s bigger plan. Pay attention to where He has you. Do not become preoccupied with where you want to be. Be faithful today and tomorrow will take care of itself. It is all in God’s timing. You can trust His timing. Indeed, pay attention to the little things.
Be excellent around mundane and insignificant issues. Like carefully crafted bricks of a sidewalk lead to a large and inviting home, faithfulness in the little matters leads to larger opportunities. Moreover, pay attention to your soul. If it is sick and tired, allow God’s love and grace to nurse it back to a robust and engaging condition.
Your life will be limited unless you pay attention to your soul care. This caps your capacity prematurely. An unkept soul is like an unkept engine—eventually the car quits running, and so shall your life. Solitude, planning, thinking, meditation, confession and repentance will do for your soul what a healthy diet, rest and exercise do for your body. Treat it well. Pay attention to what matters. God matters most. First pay attention to Him, and you will not lack passion paying attention to His prevailing priorities. Paying attention pays!
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