2-29-2012 by Boyd Bailey
God Blessed Home
“The Lord’s curse is on the house of the wicked, but he blesses the home of the righteous.” Proverbs 3:33
What type of home does the Lord bless? He blesses a home that trusts Him, and does right, as God defines right. A home that prioritizes the implementation of heaven’s agenda on earth, He blesses. A home that builds up, rather than tears down, He blesses. A home that humbly reads Scripture together, and seeks to personally apply its truth, He blesses.
A home that prays together, plays together, worships together, and serves together, He blesses. “God bless our home” is a wise prayer for a family of faith. Even if your home is more like hell than heaven, you can still make a significant difference. Let your light of love shine in service to undeserving family members, and your Heavenly Father will draw them unto Himself. God blesses a home shingled with unselfish service.
“But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD.” Joshua 24:15
You may be the spiritual leader of the home, but you do not have the confidence to lead in religious matters. Yet there is hope. First of all, keep it simple by spending individual time alone with the Lord. Take what He is teaching you in His word, and transfer it to your family. If you are learning humility, read a Bible verse about the humble, and share a recent humbling experience from your life.
God blesses a leader in the home who is authentic and transparent. Family members can relate to your real struggles, instead of perceived perfection. The home is heaven’s hospital for healing, encouragement, and accountability. Make Christianity work at home, and then you have the creditability of a God blessed model to export it into the church and community. Christ shows contempt for the house of sinners, but blesses the home of wise saints.
“By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established.” Proverbs 24:3
How, by God’s grace, can I make our home a haven of rest and righteous behavior?
Related Readings: Deuteronomy 28:2-68; Malachi 2:2; Matthew 12:43-45; Acts 16:29-34
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Demolish Strongholds
Demolish Strongholds
“For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” 2 Corinthians 10:3-5
Strongholds are Satan’s attempt to strangle spiritual life out of the saints of God. The enemy is not slack in his attacks; indeed he is always on the prowl to pronounce judgment and dispense shame. Some of his strategic strongholds are pride, addiction, and self-absorption. He sucks in a susceptible heart and a wandering mind with alluring sin. The devil builds a faithless fortress and launches missiles of doubt with false ideologies.
How do strongholds take hold and grow in our life? Ironically, a strength can become a stronghold. Healthy confidence drifts into arrogance. The gift of discernment grows into a judgmental attitude. The discipline to work out regularly and eat right becomes an obsession that consumes every minute of our discretionary time. The goal to get ahead financially grows into greed and a sense of superiority. A strength can be a stronghold.
“The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.” Psalm 18:2
The Lord is good—Satan is bad. The Lord clarifies—Satan confuses. The Lord offers freedom—Satan enlists bondage. The Lord gives grace—Satan pours on guilt. The Lord forgives—Satan shames. The Lord creates contentment—Satan drives for more. The Lord loves people—Satan hates people. The Lord wants what’s best for you—Satan wants what’s worse for you. The Lord gives—Satan takes.
It takes divine power to pull down and demolish strongholds. Your savior Jesus has overcome and destroyed Satan’s strongholds. Start by faith to replace any destructive strongholds with the Lord as your stronghold. Replace the stronghold of alcohol abuse with the stronghold of the Lord’s sobriety. Substitute the stronghold of anger with Almighty God’s stronghold of patient forgiveness. Divine strongholds defeat Satan’s. Trust in the Lord tears down demonic strongholds and erects His faithful fortress.
“The LORD is good, A stronghold in the day of trouble; And He knows those who trust in Him.” Nahum 1:7, NKJV
What single stronghold do I need to demolish by faith and replace with the Lord’s?
Related Readings: Psalm 9:9; 27:1; 37:39; Lamentations 2:2-5
“For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” 2 Corinthians 10:3-5
Strongholds are Satan’s attempt to strangle spiritual life out of the saints of God. The enemy is not slack in his attacks; indeed he is always on the prowl to pronounce judgment and dispense shame. Some of his strategic strongholds are pride, addiction, and self-absorption. He sucks in a susceptible heart and a wandering mind with alluring sin. The devil builds a faithless fortress and launches missiles of doubt with false ideologies.
How do strongholds take hold and grow in our life? Ironically, a strength can become a stronghold. Healthy confidence drifts into arrogance. The gift of discernment grows into a judgmental attitude. The discipline to work out regularly and eat right becomes an obsession that consumes every minute of our discretionary time. The goal to get ahead financially grows into greed and a sense of superiority. A strength can be a stronghold.
“The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.” Psalm 18:2
The Lord is good—Satan is bad. The Lord clarifies—Satan confuses. The Lord offers freedom—Satan enlists bondage. The Lord gives grace—Satan pours on guilt. The Lord forgives—Satan shames. The Lord creates contentment—Satan drives for more. The Lord loves people—Satan hates people. The Lord wants what’s best for you—Satan wants what’s worse for you. The Lord gives—Satan takes.
It takes divine power to pull down and demolish strongholds. Your savior Jesus has overcome and destroyed Satan’s strongholds. Start by faith to replace any destructive strongholds with the Lord as your stronghold. Replace the stronghold of alcohol abuse with the stronghold of the Lord’s sobriety. Substitute the stronghold of anger with Almighty God’s stronghold of patient forgiveness. Divine strongholds defeat Satan’s. Trust in the Lord tears down demonic strongholds and erects His faithful fortress.
“The LORD is good, A stronghold in the day of trouble; And He knows those who trust in Him.” Nahum 1:7, NKJV
What single stronghold do I need to demolish by faith and replace with the Lord’s?
Related Readings: Psalm 9:9; 27:1; 37:39; Lamentations 2:2-5
Monday, February 27, 2012
Unexpected Good News
2-27-2012 by Boyd Bailey
Unexpected Good News
“Then He said, “Jesus, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.” Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with Me in paradise.” Luke 23:42-43
Unexpected good news can take a sincere soul off guard, as much as bad news can. But it is in the pleasantness of the Lord’s comforting words that gratitude and joy are released. Emotion erupts in praise and thanksgiving when a “no” was expected, but a “yes” was lovingly communicated. Humility asks the Lord for His forgiving presence and love. Grateful and wise disciples request the Lord to remember them now and forever.
Sometimes we strive in uncertainty, ever wondering what’s next. We are tentative to get our hopes up, because we have seen hopeful expectations dashed into discouragement in the past. So, in some situations we find ourselves somewhat skeptical of positive outcomes. Guilt and disappointment jar the foundations of faith with profound persistence. But the Lord does not want to leave His children in suspense—He clarifies.
“Show me Your ways, LORD, teach me Your paths.” Psalm 25:4
Today by faith you can walk with Jesus. Your paradise lost on earth is gained back in Christ. During this brief finite time—as a committed follower of Jesus—you have the solid expectation of an abundant life. Health scares, a fractured family or economic turmoil can only test your faith, not destroy your trust in God. Whatever you face—turn face-to-face to Jesus and in humility request Him to remember you—He will and He does.
Your heavenly Father remembers your hard work and He praises you for your diligence. He remembers you in your pregnancy and like Mary, He has bestowed on you His favor. Christ remembers your need for companionship, thus He is orchestrating relationships within His body to bring you His helpmate. He remembers your milestones of love and grief, and He joins you to rejoice and mourn. He remembers you, so you can remember Him and remember others with unexpected good news. Faith expects the unexpected.
“You who bring good news to Zion, go up on a high mountain. You who bring good news to Jerusalem, lift up your voice with a shout, lift it up, do not be afraid; say to the towns of Judah, “Here is your God!” Isaiah 40:9
With what unexpected good news can I give God glory and humbly share it to encourage others?
Related Readings: 2 Kings 7:9; Proverbs 15:30; Mark 1:1; 1 Thessalonians 3:6
Unexpected Good News
“Then He said, “Jesus, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.” Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with Me in paradise.” Luke 23:42-43
Unexpected good news can take a sincere soul off guard, as much as bad news can. But it is in the pleasantness of the Lord’s comforting words that gratitude and joy are released. Emotion erupts in praise and thanksgiving when a “no” was expected, but a “yes” was lovingly communicated. Humility asks the Lord for His forgiving presence and love. Grateful and wise disciples request the Lord to remember them now and forever.
Sometimes we strive in uncertainty, ever wondering what’s next. We are tentative to get our hopes up, because we have seen hopeful expectations dashed into discouragement in the past. So, in some situations we find ourselves somewhat skeptical of positive outcomes. Guilt and disappointment jar the foundations of faith with profound persistence. But the Lord does not want to leave His children in suspense—He clarifies.
“Show me Your ways, LORD, teach me Your paths.” Psalm 25:4
Today by faith you can walk with Jesus. Your paradise lost on earth is gained back in Christ. During this brief finite time—as a committed follower of Jesus—you have the solid expectation of an abundant life. Health scares, a fractured family or economic turmoil can only test your faith, not destroy your trust in God. Whatever you face—turn face-to-face to Jesus and in humility request Him to remember you—He will and He does.
Your heavenly Father remembers your hard work and He praises you for your diligence. He remembers you in your pregnancy and like Mary, He has bestowed on you His favor. Christ remembers your need for companionship, thus He is orchestrating relationships within His body to bring you His helpmate. He remembers your milestones of love and grief, and He joins you to rejoice and mourn. He remembers you, so you can remember Him and remember others with unexpected good news. Faith expects the unexpected.
“You who bring good news to Zion, go up on a high mountain. You who bring good news to Jerusalem, lift up your voice with a shout, lift it up, do not be afraid; say to the towns of Judah, “Here is your God!” Isaiah 40:9
With what unexpected good news can I give God glory and humbly share it to encourage others?
Related Readings: 2 Kings 7:9; Proverbs 15:30; Mark 1:1; 1 Thessalonians 3:6
Sunday, February 26, 2012
Patient Endurance
2-26-2012 by Boyd Bailey
Patient Endurance
“This calls for patient endurance and faithfulness on the part of the saints.” Revelation 13:10b
Patient endurance is not easy, but many times it is necessary. If you change jobs every two years, ten times in a row, you do not have twenty years of work experience. You have two years of work experience in ten different places. So, make sure that you learn what God intends for you to learn where you are, before you move on. This is one of Satan’s ploys. His desire is to keep you reactive to life, accompanied by a shallow faith.
Your faith has the opportunity to go deep when you stay somewhere for a while, but your faith remains shallow when you run from resistance. Resistance is a faith builder. When you are pressed against by life (what sometimes seems from all sides), you have the opportunity for growth. This is where patient endurance can serve you well. Patient endurance says that I will stay in this marriage, because it is for better or for worse. I will allow God to change me for the better, and I will trust Him to do the same for my spouse over time.
Indeed, patient endurance is able to outwait and sometimes outlive its accusers. Accusers come and go. If they do not get the reaction or desired response from you, they will move on to some other unprotected prey. So, by faith, “out-endure” your enemies. There will always be someone who does not like you. Don’t think you can appease everyone; this is not possible or healthy. Appeasement may grant concessions that come back to haunt you. It is one thing to negotiate with those who represent a spirit of good will but it is a whole other deal to compromise with someone who is totally at odds with your values and principles. Be willing to walk away. It is not worth it to do business with an enraged enemy.
Patient endurance is illustrated throughout the Bible. Jesus patiently endured the cross. He patiently endured His critics and, ultimately, He more than restored His reputation when He proved His claims by His resurrected life. David patiently endured the fallout from his adultery and murder. He had pushed himself to the point of totally turning his back on God, but, instead, he turned back to God and became a broken and humbled leader.
Joseph, also, patiently endured the ridicule and jealousy of his family members.
Their injustice drove his faith in God deeper and broader. His patient endurance during the horrific injustice of his imprisonment led to his godly influence over a kingdom. Hannah patiently endured her inability to bear children. Her faithfulness to God during barrenness was a testimony of encouragement to friends, family and a nation. Her womb was empty, but her faith was pregnant with God possibilities.
Therefore, do not be tempted to take the easy way out. The easy way, many times, is not the best way. Yes, there is a time to cut your losses, but only after you have patiently endured and exhausted your options. People are watching how you “do life.” So, use your influence to help others patiently endure their situations. Faithfulness, when you don’t feel like it, is evidence of a maturing faith. You may be on the verge of experiencing God’s very best.
However, do not confuse procrastination with patient endurance. Patient endurance is active and productive. It is not misguided, apathetic or irresponsible waiting. It is daily depending on and seeking God for His best. Therefore, patiently endure for God’s sake and for the sake of others. Heavenly rewards await those who patiently endure. Moreover, your faith will never be the same!
Patient Endurance
“This calls for patient endurance and faithfulness on the part of the saints.” Revelation 13:10b
Patient endurance is not easy, but many times it is necessary. If you change jobs every two years, ten times in a row, you do not have twenty years of work experience. You have two years of work experience in ten different places. So, make sure that you learn what God intends for you to learn where you are, before you move on. This is one of Satan’s ploys. His desire is to keep you reactive to life, accompanied by a shallow faith.
Your faith has the opportunity to go deep when you stay somewhere for a while, but your faith remains shallow when you run from resistance. Resistance is a faith builder. When you are pressed against by life (what sometimes seems from all sides), you have the opportunity for growth. This is where patient endurance can serve you well. Patient endurance says that I will stay in this marriage, because it is for better or for worse. I will allow God to change me for the better, and I will trust Him to do the same for my spouse over time.
Indeed, patient endurance is able to outwait and sometimes outlive its accusers. Accusers come and go. If they do not get the reaction or desired response from you, they will move on to some other unprotected prey. So, by faith, “out-endure” your enemies. There will always be someone who does not like you. Don’t think you can appease everyone; this is not possible or healthy. Appeasement may grant concessions that come back to haunt you. It is one thing to negotiate with those who represent a spirit of good will but it is a whole other deal to compromise with someone who is totally at odds with your values and principles. Be willing to walk away. It is not worth it to do business with an enraged enemy.
Patient endurance is illustrated throughout the Bible. Jesus patiently endured the cross. He patiently endured His critics and, ultimately, He more than restored His reputation when He proved His claims by His resurrected life. David patiently endured the fallout from his adultery and murder. He had pushed himself to the point of totally turning his back on God, but, instead, he turned back to God and became a broken and humbled leader.
Joseph, also, patiently endured the ridicule and jealousy of his family members.
Their injustice drove his faith in God deeper and broader. His patient endurance during the horrific injustice of his imprisonment led to his godly influence over a kingdom. Hannah patiently endured her inability to bear children. Her faithfulness to God during barrenness was a testimony of encouragement to friends, family and a nation. Her womb was empty, but her faith was pregnant with God possibilities.
Therefore, do not be tempted to take the easy way out. The easy way, many times, is not the best way. Yes, there is a time to cut your losses, but only after you have patiently endured and exhausted your options. People are watching how you “do life.” So, use your influence to help others patiently endure their situations. Faithfulness, when you don’t feel like it, is evidence of a maturing faith. You may be on the verge of experiencing God’s very best.
However, do not confuse procrastination with patient endurance. Patient endurance is active and productive. It is not misguided, apathetic or irresponsible waiting. It is daily depending on and seeking God for His best. Therefore, patiently endure for God’s sake and for the sake of others. Heavenly rewards await those who patiently endure. Moreover, your faith will never be the same!
Saturday, February 25, 2012
Praying Husband
2-25-2012 by Boyd Bailey
Praying Husband
“Isaac prayed to the LORD on behalf of his wife, because she was barren. The LORD answered his prayer, and his wife Rebekah became pregnant.” Genesis 25:21
A praying husband appeals to the Lord for the sake of his wife. He bombards heaven on behalf of his bride with big things, like having babies, and he is consistent in praying for his wife everyday for important matters such as peace and security. Prayer is one of God’s select weapons that a husband can wield in defense of his woman. God has called you to be the spiritual warrior of your home, and prayer is your first line of defense. If prayer is compromised, then you have no air support from your heavenly Father. Without prayer covering your home and wife, you and your family are open to blistering assaults from the devil and his demons.
So pray for God’s hedge of protection (Job 1:10). The strategy of the stealth enemy is to keep you busy with only a token of prayer on your breath. An overly active man is probably a prayerless man; a man consumed with his own deal is probably a prayerless man; a man absorbed by pride is probably a prayerless man; a man who serves a small God is probably a prayerless man; a man angry at his wife is probably a prayerless man. A husband whose prayers are hindered is a man who knows he needs to pray for his wife, but doesn’t. He is a man powerless as a spiritual leader (1 Peter 3:7).
Prayer for your wife leads you to forgive your wife; prayer for your wife leads you to love your wife; and prayer for your wife leads to the abundant life. You cannot pray for your wife and stay mad at her. You cannot pray for your wife and not want to hang out with her, for prayer facilitates intimacy. Prayer changes your heart and hers. Therefore, agree together to schedule a time just to pray (1 Corinthians 7:5), for prayer unleashes the resources and the blessings of God. Satan shudders at the thought of a praying husband. A husband will win the battle for his family if he fights the enemy on his knees. It is a posture of desperation for God that brings victory and reconciliation. Husbands, prayer is your most potent marriage resource.
Therefore, get on your knees and do not get up until you have persevered in prayer for your helpmate. Courageously cry out to God on her behalf. Pray for her inner beauty to be reflected in her gorgeous countenance. Pray for her to feel God’s love and security. Pray for her to feel your love, support, and respect. Pray for her to be at peace with God, herself, and you. Pray for her to forgive herself and to love herself. Pray for her to have wisdom and discernment as a wife and a mom. Pray for her to love God and hate sin.
As you pray, see her as God sees her. She is a child of God, and, in Christ, she is holy and acceptable. Thank God for your wife and thank Him for her love for you. Thank Him for her unselfish service. Thank Him that she puts up with your idiosyncrasies. Pray for your wife that she will receive spiritual nourishment from God’s Word and spiritual leadership from you. Pray for her daily and deliberately. Pray for her when you are happy, and pray for her when you are sad. However, hang on, because as you pray, neither of you will ever be the same. Prayer for your wife is profitable; it solicits heaven on her behalf.
Praying Husband
“Isaac prayed to the LORD on behalf of his wife, because she was barren. The LORD answered his prayer, and his wife Rebekah became pregnant.” Genesis 25:21
A praying husband appeals to the Lord for the sake of his wife. He bombards heaven on behalf of his bride with big things, like having babies, and he is consistent in praying for his wife everyday for important matters such as peace and security. Prayer is one of God’s select weapons that a husband can wield in defense of his woman. God has called you to be the spiritual warrior of your home, and prayer is your first line of defense. If prayer is compromised, then you have no air support from your heavenly Father. Without prayer covering your home and wife, you and your family are open to blistering assaults from the devil and his demons.
So pray for God’s hedge of protection (Job 1:10). The strategy of the stealth enemy is to keep you busy with only a token of prayer on your breath. An overly active man is probably a prayerless man; a man consumed with his own deal is probably a prayerless man; a man absorbed by pride is probably a prayerless man; a man who serves a small God is probably a prayerless man; a man angry at his wife is probably a prayerless man. A husband whose prayers are hindered is a man who knows he needs to pray for his wife, but doesn’t. He is a man powerless as a spiritual leader (1 Peter 3:7).
Prayer for your wife leads you to forgive your wife; prayer for your wife leads you to love your wife; and prayer for your wife leads to the abundant life. You cannot pray for your wife and stay mad at her. You cannot pray for your wife and not want to hang out with her, for prayer facilitates intimacy. Prayer changes your heart and hers. Therefore, agree together to schedule a time just to pray (1 Corinthians 7:5), for prayer unleashes the resources and the blessings of God. Satan shudders at the thought of a praying husband. A husband will win the battle for his family if he fights the enemy on his knees. It is a posture of desperation for God that brings victory and reconciliation. Husbands, prayer is your most potent marriage resource.
Therefore, get on your knees and do not get up until you have persevered in prayer for your helpmate. Courageously cry out to God on her behalf. Pray for her inner beauty to be reflected in her gorgeous countenance. Pray for her to feel God’s love and security. Pray for her to feel your love, support, and respect. Pray for her to be at peace with God, herself, and you. Pray for her to forgive herself and to love herself. Pray for her to have wisdom and discernment as a wife and a mom. Pray for her to love God and hate sin.
As you pray, see her as God sees her. She is a child of God, and, in Christ, she is holy and acceptable. Thank God for your wife and thank Him for her love for you. Thank Him for her unselfish service. Thank Him that she puts up with your idiosyncrasies. Pray for your wife that she will receive spiritual nourishment from God’s Word and spiritual leadership from you. Pray for her daily and deliberately. Pray for her when you are happy, and pray for her when you are sad. However, hang on, because as you pray, neither of you will ever be the same. Prayer for your wife is profitable; it solicits heaven on her behalf.
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Change of Plans
2-24-2012 by Boyd Bailey
Change of Plans
“When they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to. So they passed by Mysia and went down to Troas.” Acts 16:7-8
Sudden change can shake the faith foundation of the most ardent saints. The unexpected can cause trust to feel threatened. One day the Spirit seems to say one thing and the next day that door shuts and another one opens. Temperaments who like to be in control do not like the feeling of being out of control. But sudden change is a test of trust in Jesus.
We do our best at work and then we learn that our position will soon be eliminated. We invest in a romantic relationship over a year and then surprisingly—over coffee—learn, that we just need to be friends. We research and wait for the right cure for our disease, only to realize at the last moment that we do not qualify for the treatment. Change happens, and how we respond to change resides in our heart. Thus, experience Christ in change.
“Praise be to the name of God for ever and ever; wisdom and power are his. He changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning. He reveals deep and hidden things; he knows what lies in darkness, and light dwells with him.” Daniel 2:20-22
Christ uses change to change His children. Does your need for security trump your trust in Jesus? Does financial certainty have more influence in your life than intimacy with your heavenly Father? Perhaps abrupt change is an opportunity for your character to grow in God’s ways and learn to adapt with a grateful attitude. Fight change and you may flail about like a fatigued swimmer going up stream, or embrace change and excel ahead.
It is when we draft behind change that our understanding of His will accelerates. Sudden change may be your Savior’s way of protecting you from an unseen incident. By grace, do not grow suspect of a change in plans; instead see Christ in the change. Adjustments need to be made—transitions need to happen, so the ways of God can have their way. Christ doesn’t change, but our understanding of Him does—thus a change of plans.
“God is not a man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should change His mind. Does He speak and then not act? Does He promise and not fulfill? I have received a command to bless; He has blessed, and I cannot change it.” Number 23:19-20
What change am I facing that I need to embrace, trusting God in the process?
Related Readings: Genesis 31:7; 1 Samuel 10:9; Psalm 107:33-35; Hebrews 13:1
Change of Plans
“When they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to. So they passed by Mysia and went down to Troas.” Acts 16:7-8
Sudden change can shake the faith foundation of the most ardent saints. The unexpected can cause trust to feel threatened. One day the Spirit seems to say one thing and the next day that door shuts and another one opens. Temperaments who like to be in control do not like the feeling of being out of control. But sudden change is a test of trust in Jesus.
We do our best at work and then we learn that our position will soon be eliminated. We invest in a romantic relationship over a year and then surprisingly—over coffee—learn, that we just need to be friends. We research and wait for the right cure for our disease, only to realize at the last moment that we do not qualify for the treatment. Change happens, and how we respond to change resides in our heart. Thus, experience Christ in change.
“Praise be to the name of God for ever and ever; wisdom and power are his. He changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning. He reveals deep and hidden things; he knows what lies in darkness, and light dwells with him.” Daniel 2:20-22
Christ uses change to change His children. Does your need for security trump your trust in Jesus? Does financial certainty have more influence in your life than intimacy with your heavenly Father? Perhaps abrupt change is an opportunity for your character to grow in God’s ways and learn to adapt with a grateful attitude. Fight change and you may flail about like a fatigued swimmer going up stream, or embrace change and excel ahead.
It is when we draft behind change that our understanding of His will accelerates. Sudden change may be your Savior’s way of protecting you from an unseen incident. By grace, do not grow suspect of a change in plans; instead see Christ in the change. Adjustments need to be made—transitions need to happen, so the ways of God can have their way. Christ doesn’t change, but our understanding of Him does—thus a change of plans.
“God is not a man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should change His mind. Does He speak and then not act? Does He promise and not fulfill? I have received a command to bless; He has blessed, and I cannot change it.” Number 23:19-20
What change am I facing that I need to embrace, trusting God in the process?
Related Readings: Genesis 31:7; 1 Samuel 10:9; Psalm 107:33-35; Hebrews 13:1
Monday, February 20, 2012
Humble Wisdom
2-20-2012 by Boyd Bailey
Humble Wisdom
“Do not be wise in your own eyes, fear the Lord and shun evil”. Proverbs 3:7
Humble wisdom does not hint at a holier-than-thou attitude. On the contrary it is contrite before Christ and modest before men. Humble wisdom is very grateful to God for His blessing of insight and understanding into eternal matters. Wisdom is not a badge of superiority to be worn with pride, but a blanket of security that humbles the heart.
Wisdom without humility becomes conceited, and is accompanied by a condescending attitude. It is ugly as it disfigures the soul. It is like star athletes, so full of themselves they fail to reach their potential for lack of team support. However, humble wisdom says I am a fellow learner of the Lord’s ways, and I am a work in progress just like you. It is to a heart of humility that God entrusts His wisdom, so stay desperate for divine direction.
“Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.” James 3:13
The more wisdom increases in your heart and mind, the more pride needs to decrease in your persona. It is the fear of the Lord that keeps you from thinking you can be anything special outside of your Savior Jesus. The fear of God does not forget that wisdom comes from above. Yes, your experience enhances wisdom, and your pain can produce wisdom, but ultimately wisdom resides with God and His Word.
This is why in humility you hunker down and pray, “Heavenly Father I bow in awe before you, and I ask you for insight and direction; you are the author of all wisdom”. It is submission to Christ and His commands that squeezes out selfish worldly wisdom, and replaces it with the humble wisdom of heaven. Therefore, request wisdom for His glory, and never cease to learn from those who the Lord sends into your life.
“Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty (snobbish, high-minded, exclusive), but readily adjust yourself to [people, things] and give yourselves to humble tasks. Never overestimate yourself or be wise in your own conceits” (Romans 12:16, Amplified Bible).
Who can I learn from today, to become wiser in humility of mind and heart?
Related Readings: I Kings 3:4-15; Isaiah 5:21; Romans 11:20-25; Revelation 14:7
Humble Wisdom
“Do not be wise in your own eyes, fear the Lord and shun evil”. Proverbs 3:7
Humble wisdom does not hint at a holier-than-thou attitude. On the contrary it is contrite before Christ and modest before men. Humble wisdom is very grateful to God for His blessing of insight and understanding into eternal matters. Wisdom is not a badge of superiority to be worn with pride, but a blanket of security that humbles the heart.
Wisdom without humility becomes conceited, and is accompanied by a condescending attitude. It is ugly as it disfigures the soul. It is like star athletes, so full of themselves they fail to reach their potential for lack of team support. However, humble wisdom says I am a fellow learner of the Lord’s ways, and I am a work in progress just like you. It is to a heart of humility that God entrusts His wisdom, so stay desperate for divine direction.
“Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.” James 3:13
The more wisdom increases in your heart and mind, the more pride needs to decrease in your persona. It is the fear of the Lord that keeps you from thinking you can be anything special outside of your Savior Jesus. The fear of God does not forget that wisdom comes from above. Yes, your experience enhances wisdom, and your pain can produce wisdom, but ultimately wisdom resides with God and His Word.
This is why in humility you hunker down and pray, “Heavenly Father I bow in awe before you, and I ask you for insight and direction; you are the author of all wisdom”. It is submission to Christ and His commands that squeezes out selfish worldly wisdom, and replaces it with the humble wisdom of heaven. Therefore, request wisdom for His glory, and never cease to learn from those who the Lord sends into your life.
“Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty (snobbish, high-minded, exclusive), but readily adjust yourself to [people, things] and give yourselves to humble tasks. Never overestimate yourself or be wise in your own conceits” (Romans 12:16, Amplified Bible).
Who can I learn from today, to become wiser in humility of mind and heart?
Related Readings: I Kings 3:4-15; Isaiah 5:21; Romans 11:20-25; Revelation 14:7
Sunday, February 19, 2012
Love Forgives
2-19-2012 by Boyd Bailey
Love Forgives
”It [love] keeps no record of wrongs. 1 Corinthians 13:5
Love forgives continually and it forgives comprehensively. Forgiveness wipes clean the slate of offense, hence it is freeing for everyone. Indeed, forgiveness was the heartbeat of Jesus. Some of His last words requested forgiveness from God for the ignorant acts of His offenders (Luke 23:34). Christ’s greatest act of love was the forgiveness He extended by His voluntary death on the cross (Colossians 2:13-15). Jesus described His own act of love when He said, “Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13). Jesus was the epitome of love and forgiveness; He owns the trademark.
Forgiveness is the fuel for living a life free from the clutter of cutting words and unjust acts. A life without forgiveness is a lonely life locked up in the solitary confinement of sin. Forgiveness flows when you have been authentically and thoroughly forgiven. Half-hearted forgiveness is the destiny of those who have not tasted the tender touch of forgiveness from their heavenly Father. Unless the forgiveness of God has graced your heart and soul, your capacity for forgiveness will be foreign and futile.
It is the grace of God and faith in Him that fuels forgiveness in followers of Christ. The job description of Christians is to love with forgiveness because we have been forgiven (Colossians 3:13). Think about the depth and breadth of your forgiveness. Ignorant acts, they are forgiven; drunkenness, it’s forgiven; lust, it’s forgiven; immorality, it’s forgiven; hate, it’s forgiven; ignoring God, it’s forgiven; unbelief, it’s forgiven. Love forgives because it has been forgiven.
Remember where you were BC (before Christ), and reflect on where you would be today without His love and forgiveness. Recall what it was like to be lost and bound up in your sin, and celebrate how far God has brought you. Love is extremely grateful for God’s goodness and redeeming power. Forgiveness is second nature and somewhat automatic for followers of Jesus who are consumed with Christ’s love. They are enamored with God’s love for them and others. When you have been forgiven much, you love much (Luke 7:47). Your capacity to love is directly tied to your willingness to receive Christ’s forgiveness. Accept the Almighty’s forgiveness so that you can extend forgiveness. Let go of unforgiveness and replace it with His unconditional love.
Love looks for excuses to eliminate hard feelings, as it replaces resentment and bitterness with love and forgiveness. Love by forgiving your family member who may not even know they hurt your heart. Love by forgiving your friend who volitionally violated your confidence. Love by forgiving your father and mother who are preoccupied parents. Love by forgiving your child who is ungrateful and selfish. Love by forgiving yourself for your stupid decisions. Forgiveness forgets the past, engages in the present, and hopes in the future. Extend forgiveness indiscriminately and receive it graciously. Delete any record of wrongs from the hard drive of your heart. Call, write, or initiate a freeing conversation of forgiveness. Reject the temptation for indignation and humbly receive God’s grace instead. Love liberally by regularly relying on forgiveness. Love forgives.
Love Forgives
”It [love] keeps no record of wrongs. 1 Corinthians 13:5
Love forgives continually and it forgives comprehensively. Forgiveness wipes clean the slate of offense, hence it is freeing for everyone. Indeed, forgiveness was the heartbeat of Jesus. Some of His last words requested forgiveness from God for the ignorant acts of His offenders (Luke 23:34). Christ’s greatest act of love was the forgiveness He extended by His voluntary death on the cross (Colossians 2:13-15). Jesus described His own act of love when He said, “Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13). Jesus was the epitome of love and forgiveness; He owns the trademark.
Forgiveness is the fuel for living a life free from the clutter of cutting words and unjust acts. A life without forgiveness is a lonely life locked up in the solitary confinement of sin. Forgiveness flows when you have been authentically and thoroughly forgiven. Half-hearted forgiveness is the destiny of those who have not tasted the tender touch of forgiveness from their heavenly Father. Unless the forgiveness of God has graced your heart and soul, your capacity for forgiveness will be foreign and futile.
It is the grace of God and faith in Him that fuels forgiveness in followers of Christ. The job description of Christians is to love with forgiveness because we have been forgiven (Colossians 3:13). Think about the depth and breadth of your forgiveness. Ignorant acts, they are forgiven; drunkenness, it’s forgiven; lust, it’s forgiven; immorality, it’s forgiven; hate, it’s forgiven; ignoring God, it’s forgiven; unbelief, it’s forgiven. Love forgives because it has been forgiven.
Remember where you were BC (before Christ), and reflect on where you would be today without His love and forgiveness. Recall what it was like to be lost and bound up in your sin, and celebrate how far God has brought you. Love is extremely grateful for God’s goodness and redeeming power. Forgiveness is second nature and somewhat automatic for followers of Jesus who are consumed with Christ’s love. They are enamored with God’s love for them and others. When you have been forgiven much, you love much (Luke 7:47). Your capacity to love is directly tied to your willingness to receive Christ’s forgiveness. Accept the Almighty’s forgiveness so that you can extend forgiveness. Let go of unforgiveness and replace it with His unconditional love.
Love looks for excuses to eliminate hard feelings, as it replaces resentment and bitterness with love and forgiveness. Love by forgiving your family member who may not even know they hurt your heart. Love by forgiving your friend who volitionally violated your confidence. Love by forgiving your father and mother who are preoccupied parents. Love by forgiving your child who is ungrateful and selfish. Love by forgiving yourself for your stupid decisions. Forgiveness forgets the past, engages in the present, and hopes in the future. Extend forgiveness indiscriminately and receive it graciously. Delete any record of wrongs from the hard drive of your heart. Call, write, or initiate a freeing conversation of forgiveness. Reject the temptation for indignation and humbly receive God’s grace instead. Love liberally by regularly relying on forgiveness. Love forgives.
Friday, February 17, 2012
The Lord's Favor
2-18-2012 by Boyd Bailey
The Lord’s Favor
“Moses said, "If now I have found favor in your sight, O Lord, I pray, let the Lord go with us." Exodus 34:9
The Lord’s favor precedes those who follow hard after Him. It is a surrendered life of faith and obedience that is able to enjoy supernatural strength from the Holy Spirit. Favor from above is not bought or manipulated on earth; rather it is an act of grace that God gives to those He can trust. The Lord’s favor is found on those faithful to His word.
Are you enjoying the favor of your heavenly Father in your family and work? Are you grateful to God for the opportunities and people He has placed in your life? His favor is not to be taken for granted or forgotten. In fact, unacknowledged favor from the Lord looses the Almighty’s acknowledgement. His favor flourishes where faith is the focus.
“The Lord has done this for me,” she said. “In these days he has shown his favor and taken away my disgrace among the people.” Luke 1:25
So, it is a subtle, but profound difference to seek favors from the Lord, instead of seeking the favor of the Lord. We seek to finish school, but are we seeking God in the process? We seek to have a family, but are we seeking to grow their faith, as they get older? We seek to advance our career, but do we seek to advance the kingdom of God in the marketplace? God’s favor rests where He gets His best results. In fact, this may mean He takes you through trials and tribulations for His glory.
The favor of the Lord is not for the faint-hearted, since He holds responsible those who have encountered His power for good. Handle well His blessing on the little things in your life and you become a candidate for favor in situations with a larger scope of influence. Thus, with a humble and contrite spirit, obey His word, and be extremely grateful for the Lord’s favor. Yes, stay blessable, so you can be a blessing to others.
“Has not my hand made all these things, and so they came into being?” declares the Lord. “These are the ones I look on with favor: those who are humble and contrite in spirit, and who tremble at my word” Isaiah 66:2
Lord, how can I stay blessable, so I can be a blessing to others?
Related Readings: Genesis 28:10-22; Psalm 90:17; Proverbs 8:35; 11:1; 12; 18:22
The Lord’s Favor
“Moses said, "If now I have found favor in your sight, O Lord, I pray, let the Lord go with us." Exodus 34:9
The Lord’s favor precedes those who follow hard after Him. It is a surrendered life of faith and obedience that is able to enjoy supernatural strength from the Holy Spirit. Favor from above is not bought or manipulated on earth; rather it is an act of grace that God gives to those He can trust. The Lord’s favor is found on those faithful to His word.
Are you enjoying the favor of your heavenly Father in your family and work? Are you grateful to God for the opportunities and people He has placed in your life? His favor is not to be taken for granted or forgotten. In fact, unacknowledged favor from the Lord looses the Almighty’s acknowledgement. His favor flourishes where faith is the focus.
“The Lord has done this for me,” she said. “In these days he has shown his favor and taken away my disgrace among the people.” Luke 1:25
So, it is a subtle, but profound difference to seek favors from the Lord, instead of seeking the favor of the Lord. We seek to finish school, but are we seeking God in the process? We seek to have a family, but are we seeking to grow their faith, as they get older? We seek to advance our career, but do we seek to advance the kingdom of God in the marketplace? God’s favor rests where He gets His best results. In fact, this may mean He takes you through trials and tribulations for His glory.
The favor of the Lord is not for the faint-hearted, since He holds responsible those who have encountered His power for good. Handle well His blessing on the little things in your life and you become a candidate for favor in situations with a larger scope of influence. Thus, with a humble and contrite spirit, obey His word, and be extremely grateful for the Lord’s favor. Yes, stay blessable, so you can be a blessing to others.
“Has not my hand made all these things, and so they came into being?” declares the Lord. “These are the ones I look on with favor: those who are humble and contrite in spirit, and who tremble at my word” Isaiah 66:2
Lord, how can I stay blessable, so I can be a blessing to others?
Related Readings: Genesis 28:10-22; Psalm 90:17; Proverbs 8:35; 11:1; 12; 18:22
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Walking Wisely
2-16-2012 by Boyd Bailey
Walking Wisely
“Thus you will walk in the ways of good men, and keep to the paths of the righteous.” Proverbs 2:20
Walking wisely means you keep company with those who love and obey Christ. They are your influencers, because their values reflect the route you want to take in life. There is an alignment of purpose with people who pray together on behalf of the greater good of God’s Kingdom. So in college walk with the crowd who is all about character building, service to others, studies, love for the Lord and obedience to His commands.
At work prayerfully partner with those who are principled in their business philosophy. Someone may have less skill and experience, but you can trust their heart to do what they say they will do. Moreover, do not negotiate with mediocre living, as it is distasteful in the mouth of your Master Jesus. Instead walk with those who raise you to righteous living.
“Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.” Proverbs 13:20
Of course you are to reach out and care for sinners, but with the purpose of loving them to the Lord. God has placed you in the life of unbelievers to influence them toward heaven. Perhaps one day they will thank you for your patience and prayers. Walking wisely means you learn to do well by being with those who aspire to intimacy with the Almighty. You walk with the ones who obey the One.
Furthermore, your family may need you to slow down, because you have run so far ahead they are unable to keep up and benefit from your presence. Walk with your sons and daughters while you can. Your leadership at work will advance in significance when your entire team walks with you in focus. Above all else, walk with the Lord and He will give you wisdom and insight into who to walk with and where.
“This is what the LORD says: Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls. But you said, 'We will not walk in it’ Jeremiah 6:16
Who do I need to cease walking with, who do I need to continue walking with, and who do I need to begin walking with?
Related Readings: Psalm 119:63-115; I Corinthians 5:11; Hebrews 6:12
Walking Wisely
“Thus you will walk in the ways of good men, and keep to the paths of the righteous.” Proverbs 2:20
Walking wisely means you keep company with those who love and obey Christ. They are your influencers, because their values reflect the route you want to take in life. There is an alignment of purpose with people who pray together on behalf of the greater good of God’s Kingdom. So in college walk with the crowd who is all about character building, service to others, studies, love for the Lord and obedience to His commands.
At work prayerfully partner with those who are principled in their business philosophy. Someone may have less skill and experience, but you can trust their heart to do what they say they will do. Moreover, do not negotiate with mediocre living, as it is distasteful in the mouth of your Master Jesus. Instead walk with those who raise you to righteous living.
“Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.” Proverbs 13:20
Of course you are to reach out and care for sinners, but with the purpose of loving them to the Lord. God has placed you in the life of unbelievers to influence them toward heaven. Perhaps one day they will thank you for your patience and prayers. Walking wisely means you learn to do well by being with those who aspire to intimacy with the Almighty. You walk with the ones who obey the One.
Furthermore, your family may need you to slow down, because you have run so far ahead they are unable to keep up and benefit from your presence. Walk with your sons and daughters while you can. Your leadership at work will advance in significance when your entire team walks with you in focus. Above all else, walk with the Lord and He will give you wisdom and insight into who to walk with and where.
“This is what the LORD says: Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls. But you said, 'We will not walk in it’ Jeremiah 6:16
Who do I need to cease walking with, who do I need to continue walking with, and who do I need to begin walking with?
Related Readings: Psalm 119:63-115; I Corinthians 5:11; Hebrews 6:12
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Emotional Investments
2-14-2012 by Boyd Bailey
Emotional Investments
“That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.” Genesis 2:24
Growing relationships require regular investments of emotional energy. Because humans have the capacity for emotional engagement there is a level of feeling and understanding that machines or animals can never attain. God’s creation—created in His image—is able to engage in intimate encounters. Emotions are meant to move people toward the eternal.
Marriage especially demands growing emotional intelligence to thrive and not merely survive. The Lord has created an emotional vacuum within a husband and within a wife that only their spouse can fill. It is folly to seek to meet this very real need with work or the children, for false substitutes only stunt emotional maturity in marriage. One flesh means to forge an alliance and an allegiance between our mind, our will and our emotions.
“It [love] always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.” 1 Corinthians 13:7
Are you becoming one with the one with whom Jesus joined together in holy matrimony? The wedding of passion is only a step into life’s foyer. You have a lifetime to explore the multiple rooms of feelings within your marriage bond. You make emotional investments into your marriage, as you begin to understand his or her needs. Are attention, security and communication her top three needs? Does he deeply desire respect, encouragement and affection? God gives you wisdom so that you can really come to know your spouse. As when you take the time to invest money and save for the future, so you wisely prepare when you take time to invest emotionally into your marriage. Emotional deposits today will bear the fruit of becoming one tomorrow. Otherwise, you will grow old apart, rather than together. First, by faith, become one with Christ and second with love, patience and understanding, become one with each other. Emotional investments today pay the dividends of oneness tomorrow. Your oneness in marriage illustrates your faith in Christ.
“We ought always to thank God for you, brothers and sisters, and rightly so, because your faith is growing more and more, and the love you have for one another is increasing.” 2 Thessalonians 1:3
Lord, what do I need to know about my spouse, so that they feel loved and accepted by me?
Related Readings: Galatians 5:13; Hebrews 12:3, 15; 1 Peter 2:2; 2 Peter 3:18
Emotional Investments
“That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.” Genesis 2:24
Growing relationships require regular investments of emotional energy. Because humans have the capacity for emotional engagement there is a level of feeling and understanding that machines or animals can never attain. God’s creation—created in His image—is able to engage in intimate encounters. Emotions are meant to move people toward the eternal.
Marriage especially demands growing emotional intelligence to thrive and not merely survive. The Lord has created an emotional vacuum within a husband and within a wife that only their spouse can fill. It is folly to seek to meet this very real need with work or the children, for false substitutes only stunt emotional maturity in marriage. One flesh means to forge an alliance and an allegiance between our mind, our will and our emotions.
“It [love] always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.” 1 Corinthians 13:7
Are you becoming one with the one with whom Jesus joined together in holy matrimony? The wedding of passion is only a step into life’s foyer. You have a lifetime to explore the multiple rooms of feelings within your marriage bond. You make emotional investments into your marriage, as you begin to understand his or her needs. Are attention, security and communication her top three needs? Does he deeply desire respect, encouragement and affection? God gives you wisdom so that you can really come to know your spouse. As when you take the time to invest money and save for the future, so you wisely prepare when you take time to invest emotionally into your marriage. Emotional deposits today will bear the fruit of becoming one tomorrow. Otherwise, you will grow old apart, rather than together. First, by faith, become one with Christ and second with love, patience and understanding, become one with each other. Emotional investments today pay the dividends of oneness tomorrow. Your oneness in marriage illustrates your faith in Christ.
“We ought always to thank God for you, brothers and sisters, and rightly so, because your faith is growing more and more, and the love you have for one another is increasing.” 2 Thessalonians 1:3
Lord, what do I need to know about my spouse, so that they feel loved and accepted by me?
Related Readings: Galatians 5:13; Hebrews 12:3, 15; 1 Peter 2:2; 2 Peter 3:18
Sunday, February 12, 2012
Love Is Kind
2-13-2012 by Boyd Bailey
Love is Kind
“Love is kind”… 1 Corinthians 13:4
Kindness is a natural application of love because it makes one feel loved. It is the ability to be accepting when everything within you wants to be rejecting. It is a strategy for forgiveness when you are wronged or when someone takes advantage of you. When your trusting spirit has been violated, you still love by being kind; you stop fighting, and you start forgiving.
Kindness means you are pleasant to be around because your countenance is inviting and shows interest. It is as much an attitude as anything, and it is the ability to see beyond the immediate to the potential. Kindness means you go out of your way to love someone. People who are unlovable become prime candidates for your kindness. A family member who is far from God, deep down desires unconditional love and kindness.
Love keeps you kind, especially toward those who are closest to you. They do not deserve your dredging up hurtful, bitter, and unforgiving words from the past. Love is kind in its conversations. Harsh and abrasive speech is absent from kind conversation. Love produces words that are “kind and tenderhearted” (Ephesians 4:32). Love is able to extend kind words that cheer up heavy hearts (Proverbs 16:24). Pray to God for kindness to reign in your relationships with kids and teenagers. Children translate kindness into love, for it is their language of love.
We all have blown up and lost our temper over disrespectful attitudes and actions from our offspring. The temptation is to disrespect them when we have been disrespected, and the natural response is to become angry when someone else spews out his or her frustrations on us. But God has not called us to natural responses but supernatural ones. Kindness in the face of frustration is a fruit of the Spirit, and only through submission to your Savior will kindness come front and center. The fullness of the Holy Spirit in your life is what causes kindness to come forth.
Lastly, loving others with kindness does not preclude difficult decisions. Kindness is not patronizing, but it is authentic care and concern, and it is able to deliver hard truth that softens hard hearts. You can dismiss an employee with kindness. Likewise, you can disagree with kindness in a heated debate. Harshness has no hold on those who are controlled by Christ.
Therefore, kindly love people through difficult situations. Serve those who are experiencing financial difficulties, for example. Kindness is king for followers of King Jesus, so love with kindness and watch them come around and embrace Christ. Kindness kills sin and sadness, and brings to life love, forgiveness, and hope. Allow Jesus’ loving kindness to flow through you, for kindness toward the needy honors God (Proverbs 14:31). Kindness resides where love is applied, because love is kind.
Love is Kind
“Love is kind”… 1 Corinthians 13:4
Kindness is a natural application of love because it makes one feel loved. It is the ability to be accepting when everything within you wants to be rejecting. It is a strategy for forgiveness when you are wronged or when someone takes advantage of you. When your trusting spirit has been violated, you still love by being kind; you stop fighting, and you start forgiving.
Kindness means you are pleasant to be around because your countenance is inviting and shows interest. It is as much an attitude as anything, and it is the ability to see beyond the immediate to the potential. Kindness means you go out of your way to love someone. People who are unlovable become prime candidates for your kindness. A family member who is far from God, deep down desires unconditional love and kindness.
Love keeps you kind, especially toward those who are closest to you. They do not deserve your dredging up hurtful, bitter, and unforgiving words from the past. Love is kind in its conversations. Harsh and abrasive speech is absent from kind conversation. Love produces words that are “kind and tenderhearted” (Ephesians 4:32). Love is able to extend kind words that cheer up heavy hearts (Proverbs 16:24). Pray to God for kindness to reign in your relationships with kids and teenagers. Children translate kindness into love, for it is their language of love.
We all have blown up and lost our temper over disrespectful attitudes and actions from our offspring. The temptation is to disrespect them when we have been disrespected, and the natural response is to become angry when someone else spews out his or her frustrations on us. But God has not called us to natural responses but supernatural ones. Kindness in the face of frustration is a fruit of the Spirit, and only through submission to your Savior will kindness come front and center. The fullness of the Holy Spirit in your life is what causes kindness to come forth.
Lastly, loving others with kindness does not preclude difficult decisions. Kindness is not patronizing, but it is authentic care and concern, and it is able to deliver hard truth that softens hard hearts. You can dismiss an employee with kindness. Likewise, you can disagree with kindness in a heated debate. Harshness has no hold on those who are controlled by Christ.
Therefore, kindly love people through difficult situations. Serve those who are experiencing financial difficulties, for example. Kindness is king for followers of King Jesus, so love with kindness and watch them come around and embrace Christ. Kindness kills sin and sadness, and brings to life love, forgiveness, and hope. Allow Jesus’ loving kindness to flow through you, for kindness toward the needy honors God (Proverbs 14:31). Kindness resides where love is applied, because love is kind.
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Attention To Details
2-9-2012 by Boyd Bailey
Attention To Details
“Then the angel said to him, "Put on your clothes and sandals." And Peter did so. "Wrap your cloak around you and follow me," the angel told him.” Acts 12:8
Almighty God is in the details, because He knows the details define a clear path for His will. Like Peter, His angel sometimes has to shake us out of the slumber of our sleepy self. We can nap in our pitiful prison of fear and forget God is still at work. He wants us to welcome His sudden shake up, so that we can see Christ’s course for our life more clearly.
Perhaps the Holy Spirit is shifting us so that we will see the details of what He is doing. When Christ crashes into our circumstances it is certainly wise to wake up and wonder what He is doing. Pay attention to His work around you, and listen to the Lord’s leading. The smile of an infant may be just the small sign you need that shows He is pleased with you.
“Paul greeted them and reported in detail what God had done among the Gentiles through his ministry.” Acts 21:19
Jesus gives attention to details in your life because He cares. He cares if you have a career you are passionate about. He cares if your son or daughter gets into their school of choice. He cares if you make it through financial chaos to a cash position that is calm and predictable. So, look for the Lord in the details of your everyday life, and thank Him for His great love. Praise Him when He gives you perception into solving problems and understanding people.
Furthermore, slow down and take the time to engage in the details of people’s passions around you. It honors them when you can ask intelligent questions that communicate you care and understand. God’s got the details covered, so seek Him first for His discernment and He will lead you through every important step along the way. However, don’t drown in the details; stay moving, empowered by Him for the results.
“In the eleventh year in the month of Bul, the eighth month, the temple was finished in all its details according to its specifications. He had spent seven years building it” (I Kings 6:38).
In what area of my life am I responsible to pay more attention to details as God’s steward?
Related Readings: I Chronicles 28:19; Matthew 6:25-34; Hebrews 9:5
Attention To Details
“Then the angel said to him, "Put on your clothes and sandals." And Peter did so. "Wrap your cloak around you and follow me," the angel told him.” Acts 12:8
Almighty God is in the details, because He knows the details define a clear path for His will. Like Peter, His angel sometimes has to shake us out of the slumber of our sleepy self. We can nap in our pitiful prison of fear and forget God is still at work. He wants us to welcome His sudden shake up, so that we can see Christ’s course for our life more clearly.
Perhaps the Holy Spirit is shifting us so that we will see the details of what He is doing. When Christ crashes into our circumstances it is certainly wise to wake up and wonder what He is doing. Pay attention to His work around you, and listen to the Lord’s leading. The smile of an infant may be just the small sign you need that shows He is pleased with you.
“Paul greeted them and reported in detail what God had done among the Gentiles through his ministry.” Acts 21:19
Jesus gives attention to details in your life because He cares. He cares if you have a career you are passionate about. He cares if your son or daughter gets into their school of choice. He cares if you make it through financial chaos to a cash position that is calm and predictable. So, look for the Lord in the details of your everyday life, and thank Him for His great love. Praise Him when He gives you perception into solving problems and understanding people.
Furthermore, slow down and take the time to engage in the details of people’s passions around you. It honors them when you can ask intelligent questions that communicate you care and understand. God’s got the details covered, so seek Him first for His discernment and He will lead you through every important step along the way. However, don’t drown in the details; stay moving, empowered by Him for the results.
“In the eleventh year in the month of Bul, the eighth month, the temple was finished in all its details according to its specifications. He had spent seven years building it” (I Kings 6:38).
In what area of my life am I responsible to pay more attention to details as God’s steward?
Related Readings: I Chronicles 28:19; Matthew 6:25-34; Hebrews 9:5
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
Benefits Of Repentance
2-8-2012 by Boyd Bailey
Benefits Of Repentance
“If you had responded to my rebuke, I would have poured out my heart to you and made my thoughts known to you.” Proverbs 1:23
There are benefits that belong to real repentance. When you and I respond to correction in humility and teachability, we are in a position to be blessed by wisdom. Another’s rebuke causes our pride to bristle, but defensiveness is not where wisdom resides. Wisdom is attracted to the man or woman who comes clean with their sins and shortcomings.
It is when our spouse or supervisor uncovers inconsistencies in our words and actions that we are wise to listen and learn. Even when someone rebukes us with raw emotion, we are to receive it and repent of our wrong. Moreover, pray for messengers with mixed motives, and the Almighty will give them the necessary attitude adjustment. Your part is to repent and trust Him with the rest. Indeed, God reveals His heart to those responsive to rebuke.
“God has granted repentance that leads to life.” Acts 18:11b
Lastly, repentance is a racetrack for wisdom, as it traffics on the streets of a soul who continually turns to Christ, and turns away from man-centered methods. The world’s standards may allow you to attack an antagonist, but not Jesus. The confrontation of a friend or enemy is at a crossroad for Christ’s wisdom. Instruction is an ally that grows your understanding of, and intimacy with, Almighty God. So seek out the mature of faith, and give them permission to encounter any erroneous actions in your life.
For example, once you are aware of a dishonorable or disrespectful attitude, by God’s grace, replace it with honor and respect. Perhaps you invite a money management expert to provide you wisdom and accountability in financial stewardship, or ask a seasoned couple to mentor you and your spouse in marriage. God trusts the teachable with His thoughts. Therefore, listen and learn from the Lord and others; ask them to guide you in wisdom.
“Listen, my son, accept what I say, and the years of your life will be many. I guide you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths. When you walk, your steps will not be hampered; when you run, you will not stumble” (Proverbs 4:10-12).
What actions and attitudes do I need to repent of, and ask for wisdom on what to do next?
Related Readings: Job 36:10-12; Jeremiah 15:19; Luke 13:3-5; Revelation 3:19
Benefits Of Repentance
“If you had responded to my rebuke, I would have poured out my heart to you and made my thoughts known to you.” Proverbs 1:23
There are benefits that belong to real repentance. When you and I respond to correction in humility and teachability, we are in a position to be blessed by wisdom. Another’s rebuke causes our pride to bristle, but defensiveness is not where wisdom resides. Wisdom is attracted to the man or woman who comes clean with their sins and shortcomings.
It is when our spouse or supervisor uncovers inconsistencies in our words and actions that we are wise to listen and learn. Even when someone rebukes us with raw emotion, we are to receive it and repent of our wrong. Moreover, pray for messengers with mixed motives, and the Almighty will give them the necessary attitude adjustment. Your part is to repent and trust Him with the rest. Indeed, God reveals His heart to those responsive to rebuke.
“God has granted repentance that leads to life.” Acts 18:11b
Lastly, repentance is a racetrack for wisdom, as it traffics on the streets of a soul who continually turns to Christ, and turns away from man-centered methods. The world’s standards may allow you to attack an antagonist, but not Jesus. The confrontation of a friend or enemy is at a crossroad for Christ’s wisdom. Instruction is an ally that grows your understanding of, and intimacy with, Almighty God. So seek out the mature of faith, and give them permission to encounter any erroneous actions in your life.
For example, once you are aware of a dishonorable or disrespectful attitude, by God’s grace, replace it with honor and respect. Perhaps you invite a money management expert to provide you wisdom and accountability in financial stewardship, or ask a seasoned couple to mentor you and your spouse in marriage. God trusts the teachable with His thoughts. Therefore, listen and learn from the Lord and others; ask them to guide you in wisdom.
“Listen, my son, accept what I say, and the years of your life will be many. I guide you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths. When you walk, your steps will not be hampered; when you run, you will not stumble” (Proverbs 4:10-12).
What actions and attitudes do I need to repent of, and ask for wisdom on what to do next?
Related Readings: Job 36:10-12; Jeremiah 15:19; Luke 13:3-5; Revelation 3:19
Monday, February 6, 2012
Promise of Heaven
2-6-2012 by Boyd Bailey
Promise of Heaven
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going.” John 14:1-4
Jesus extends the promise of heaven to all who come to Him by faith. Eternal life with Him is reason enough to receive the gift of God’s grace in His Son. Jesus prepares a place in heaven for those who have prepared for heaven. His preparations are intentional for people who are intentional in their faith preparations. Heaven is prepared for the prepared.
Are you prepared for heaven? Are you standing on the promises of your Savior Jesus? His promises are profound: forgiveness of sin, eternal life with Him, grace to live life, sweet fellowship with the Holy Spirit, answered prayer, the Spirit’s leading in God’s will, peace, joy, patience, self-control and love from the Spirit’s fullness. Love is the greatest.
“We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong.” Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.” Luke 23:41-42
Paradise with Jesus is the promise He makes to all those who come to Him in repentance and faith. Christ was punished for doing right, so that our wrongs could be made right by His death. Our hearts need not be troubled, because the Lord has already gone to the trouble of paving the way for heaven. His father’s house is furnished for all His faithful followers.
You can trust the preparations of your Savior Jesus. He knows exactly what you want and need. Your assignment on earth is to love others on heaven’s behalf. Once you make your righteous reservations with Jesus, prayerfully help others prepare for heaven. Seekers still must personally engage by faith in Christ, but you can be their travel agent of trust in the Almighty. The promise of heaven is for the prepared, so prepare and help others prepare.
“Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame.’ “‘Sir,’ the servant said, ‘what you ordered has been done, but there is still room.’ “Then the master told his servant, ‘Go out to the roads and country lanes and compel them to come in, so that my house will be full.” Luke 14:21b-23
Lord, how can I best prepare for Your promise of heaven and also help others prepare?
Related Readings: Matthew 4:17; 16:17; Philippians 3:14, 20; 1 Thessalonians 1:10
Promise of Heaven
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going.” John 14:1-4
Jesus extends the promise of heaven to all who come to Him by faith. Eternal life with Him is reason enough to receive the gift of God’s grace in His Son. Jesus prepares a place in heaven for those who have prepared for heaven. His preparations are intentional for people who are intentional in their faith preparations. Heaven is prepared for the prepared.
Are you prepared for heaven? Are you standing on the promises of your Savior Jesus? His promises are profound: forgiveness of sin, eternal life with Him, grace to live life, sweet fellowship with the Holy Spirit, answered prayer, the Spirit’s leading in God’s will, peace, joy, patience, self-control and love from the Spirit’s fullness. Love is the greatest.
“We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong.” Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.” Luke 23:41-42
Paradise with Jesus is the promise He makes to all those who come to Him in repentance and faith. Christ was punished for doing right, so that our wrongs could be made right by His death. Our hearts need not be troubled, because the Lord has already gone to the trouble of paving the way for heaven. His father’s house is furnished for all His faithful followers.
You can trust the preparations of your Savior Jesus. He knows exactly what you want and need. Your assignment on earth is to love others on heaven’s behalf. Once you make your righteous reservations with Jesus, prayerfully help others prepare for heaven. Seekers still must personally engage by faith in Christ, but you can be their travel agent of trust in the Almighty. The promise of heaven is for the prepared, so prepare and help others prepare.
“Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame.’ “‘Sir,’ the servant said, ‘what you ordered has been done, but there is still room.’ “Then the master told his servant, ‘Go out to the roads and country lanes and compel them to come in, so that my house will be full.” Luke 14:21b-23
Lord, how can I best prepare for Your promise of heaven and also help others prepare?
Related Readings: Matthew 4:17; 16:17; Philippians 3:14, 20; 1 Thessalonians 1:10
Sunday, February 5, 2012
He Cares
2-5-2012 by Boyd Bailey
He Cares
“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:7
God cares about you. He cares about your job. He cares about your fears. He cares about your wife. He cares about your husband. He cares about your children. He cares about your parents. He cares about your worries. He cares about your finances. He cares about your car and your house. He also cares about your character.
He cares about you caring about Him and caring for others. He is a caring God. You cannot out-care God. His capacity to care is infinite, and His competence to care is matchless. You can care because He cares. There is no care of yours that God does not care about. If it is important to you, then God cares about it.
Yes, you will experience misdirected cares. But God’s desire is to come along side you and realign your cares with what He cares about the most. This is the beauty of your caring heavenly Father. He cares enough to bear your anxieties and to replace them with His peace and assurance. When you give God your worries, you in turn receive His calming presence. God’s system of care is countercultural. God transforms your cares into what He cares about. However, there is one word of caution.
Be careful and do not fall into the comparison trap. Your measurement on how to behave is not another person’s measurement. We all have our struggles with sin and life. God has wired us all differently. Equally, spiritual people may cast their cares on God in polar opposite ways. One may find release in a quiet, written prayer, while another may feel cared for by God through lively worship. Let another’s processing of anxiety be a guide and not a guilty comparison.
You know that God cares immensely, so how do you cast your cares on
Him? By faith, you let Him care. It is all about trust. He cares and He can be trusted, therefore allow Him to do what He does best. You allow Him to care for you. This does take humility on your part. You are acknowledging a desperate need for God.
Your declaration of dependence is two-fold. First, you admit you are anxious and that you can’t handle your worry alone. And second, you submit to the fact that only God can handle this level of concern. Hence, your submission to God allows His care to consume your anxieties. This is a process. Your care giving to God is recurring. Over time He helps bring your feeble faith and misguided mind into focus on Him. What started as a burden, He transforms into a blessing. Pain becomes productive.
You become free to care for others, because you have been freely cared for by Him. Your perspective takes on a heavenly flavor. Do not wait until matters get worse before you off-load your cares on God. Go to God first, because He cares the most. Let bad news travel fast, because He already knows. A carefree attitude is cultivated by resting in an all-caring God. The more you allow Him to care about your worries, the less you have to care. Then you can focus your cares on people and eternal issues. Let God be consumed with your cares, so that you are not. Then you are positioned to care for others.
You can lead others to your all-caring Christ. Care for them like Jesus. Your care will lead to His care. This is the beauty of the circle of care. You do it right, and they will want your God. You care for others, and they will want the God that cares for you. Keep your caring Christ-centered. You care because He cares. You can care because you have let Him care for you. Keep the circle of care rotating. Do not grow weary of caring. He doesn’t. He cares for you. Therefore, give Him your cares and experience His care. He is your #1 caregiver!
He Cares
“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:7
God cares about you. He cares about your job. He cares about your fears. He cares about your wife. He cares about your husband. He cares about your children. He cares about your parents. He cares about your worries. He cares about your finances. He cares about your car and your house. He also cares about your character.
He cares about you caring about Him and caring for others. He is a caring God. You cannot out-care God. His capacity to care is infinite, and His competence to care is matchless. You can care because He cares. There is no care of yours that God does not care about. If it is important to you, then God cares about it.
Yes, you will experience misdirected cares. But God’s desire is to come along side you and realign your cares with what He cares about the most. This is the beauty of your caring heavenly Father. He cares enough to bear your anxieties and to replace them with His peace and assurance. When you give God your worries, you in turn receive His calming presence. God’s system of care is countercultural. God transforms your cares into what He cares about. However, there is one word of caution.
Be careful and do not fall into the comparison trap. Your measurement on how to behave is not another person’s measurement. We all have our struggles with sin and life. God has wired us all differently. Equally, spiritual people may cast their cares on God in polar opposite ways. One may find release in a quiet, written prayer, while another may feel cared for by God through lively worship. Let another’s processing of anxiety be a guide and not a guilty comparison.
You know that God cares immensely, so how do you cast your cares on
Him? By faith, you let Him care. It is all about trust. He cares and He can be trusted, therefore allow Him to do what He does best. You allow Him to care for you. This does take humility on your part. You are acknowledging a desperate need for God.
Your declaration of dependence is two-fold. First, you admit you are anxious and that you can’t handle your worry alone. And second, you submit to the fact that only God can handle this level of concern. Hence, your submission to God allows His care to consume your anxieties. This is a process. Your care giving to God is recurring. Over time He helps bring your feeble faith and misguided mind into focus on Him. What started as a burden, He transforms into a blessing. Pain becomes productive.
You become free to care for others, because you have been freely cared for by Him. Your perspective takes on a heavenly flavor. Do not wait until matters get worse before you off-load your cares on God. Go to God first, because He cares the most. Let bad news travel fast, because He already knows. A carefree attitude is cultivated by resting in an all-caring God. The more you allow Him to care about your worries, the less you have to care. Then you can focus your cares on people and eternal issues. Let God be consumed with your cares, so that you are not. Then you are positioned to care for others.
You can lead others to your all-caring Christ. Care for them like Jesus. Your care will lead to His care. This is the beauty of the circle of care. You do it right, and they will want your God. You care for others, and they will want the God that cares for you. Keep your caring Christ-centered. You care because He cares. You can care because you have let Him care for you. Keep the circle of care rotating. Do not grow weary of caring. He doesn’t. He cares for you. Therefore, give Him your cares and experience His care. He is your #1 caregiver!
Saturday, February 4, 2012
Faith Versus Fear
2-4-2012 by Boyd Bailey
Faith Versus Fear
“When I am afraid, I will trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I will not be afraid. What can mortal man do to me?” Psalm 56:3-4
Fear is a formidable foe of faith. It lurks about, looking for ways to lead us into distrust of our Lord. Fear is subtle with its sneak attacks on our attitudes and bold in its frontal barrage on our beliefs. Fear always fights back, even when we extinguish it for a time with our total trust in God. And it doesn’t let up until we get to heaven. Fear is like fire ants. You can eliminate their unholy mound with a baby powder-like deterrent, but they regroup and rebuild nearby.
Trust in the Lord is the terminator of fear, but fear seems to recreate itself with whatever appendage of doubt is left. It grows within the next uncertain circumstance that comes our way. Fear thinks it has us in check on the chessboard of our life, but the truth is that Jesus checkmated fear on the cross. Now it is up to us to appropriate His triumph by trusting in God.
There are many times when we are in transition from fear to faith. It’s in the transition of trust in God that our cares co-mingle with Christ’s care. There is a holy tension that transpires in our transition into trust. It is in this dawn of trust that light gradually overcomes darkness. Faith dissolves doubts as the sun drives away the mist. Your mind may be a little murky, but you renew your thinking (Romans 12:2) with the truth that God is ever present.
Your confidence may be crumbling, but you keep your eyes on your Savior. Your prayers may be clumsy, but you still cling to Christ. Your relationships may be reluctant, but you rely on the Lord. Use this transition from fear to faith to grow your mercy and compassion. Indeed, doubting can drive us to God, and it grows us into more patient and humble human beings. It strengthens our trust and makes us hold fast to heaven. Hope trusts in this transition from fear to faith.
Moreover, mortal man has not made a permanent impression on the saints of God. Immortal and Almighty God is your new insignia. Embedded on the coins of your character is the faith-filled inscription, “In God I Trust.” Followers of Jesus have the eternal seal of their Savior as their newfound identity (Ephesians 4:30). Do not allow the patterns of your old life to feed any fading fears in your new one (Romans 6:6). The fears of your proud past have been replaced with faith, love, and hope in your humble here and now. Faith has banished fear.
Therefore, you can continually celebrate. Praise points you to Providence. After all, it’s all about Him. This is why faith brings forth praise. When you trust, you can’t help but sing from your soul. Indeed, faith in the Lord facilitates praise and is a product of praise. It is in our praise of God that our fears fade and our faith flourishes. So praise Him, trust Him, and fear no one. No one can take from you what you have already given to Him. Faith is a fear-killer; it overcomes.
Faith Versus Fear
“When I am afraid, I will trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I will not be afraid. What can mortal man do to me?” Psalm 56:3-4
Fear is a formidable foe of faith. It lurks about, looking for ways to lead us into distrust of our Lord. Fear is subtle with its sneak attacks on our attitudes and bold in its frontal barrage on our beliefs. Fear always fights back, even when we extinguish it for a time with our total trust in God. And it doesn’t let up until we get to heaven. Fear is like fire ants. You can eliminate their unholy mound with a baby powder-like deterrent, but they regroup and rebuild nearby.
Trust in the Lord is the terminator of fear, but fear seems to recreate itself with whatever appendage of doubt is left. It grows within the next uncertain circumstance that comes our way. Fear thinks it has us in check on the chessboard of our life, but the truth is that Jesus checkmated fear on the cross. Now it is up to us to appropriate His triumph by trusting in God.
There are many times when we are in transition from fear to faith. It’s in the transition of trust in God that our cares co-mingle with Christ’s care. There is a holy tension that transpires in our transition into trust. It is in this dawn of trust that light gradually overcomes darkness. Faith dissolves doubts as the sun drives away the mist. Your mind may be a little murky, but you renew your thinking (Romans 12:2) with the truth that God is ever present.
Your confidence may be crumbling, but you keep your eyes on your Savior. Your prayers may be clumsy, but you still cling to Christ. Your relationships may be reluctant, but you rely on the Lord. Use this transition from fear to faith to grow your mercy and compassion. Indeed, doubting can drive us to God, and it grows us into more patient and humble human beings. It strengthens our trust and makes us hold fast to heaven. Hope trusts in this transition from fear to faith.
Moreover, mortal man has not made a permanent impression on the saints of God. Immortal and Almighty God is your new insignia. Embedded on the coins of your character is the faith-filled inscription, “In God I Trust.” Followers of Jesus have the eternal seal of their Savior as their newfound identity (Ephesians 4:30). Do not allow the patterns of your old life to feed any fading fears in your new one (Romans 6:6). The fears of your proud past have been replaced with faith, love, and hope in your humble here and now. Faith has banished fear.
Therefore, you can continually celebrate. Praise points you to Providence. After all, it’s all about Him. This is why faith brings forth praise. When you trust, you can’t help but sing from your soul. Indeed, faith in the Lord facilitates praise and is a product of praise. It is in our praise of God that our fears fade and our faith flourishes. So praise Him, trust Him, and fear no one. No one can take from you what you have already given to Him. Faith is a fear-killer; it overcomes.
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Leaderes of Integrity
2-2-2012 by Boyd Bailey
Leaders of Integrity
“But select capable men from all the people—men who fear God, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain—and appoint them as officials over thousands, hundreds, fifties and tens.” Exodus 18:21
Leaders with integrity are a rare breed within a group of citizens, whose utmost concern is, “What is in it for me?” A selfish society does not always select a leader for their integrity, but for their ability to manipulate a quick fix for chronic problems. It is this short sightedness that can set back a generation, because of their leader’s greed and corruption.
However, men and women of integrity understand the big picture of principled leadership, and they value fear of God, trustworthiness and honest economics. A leader of integrity looks out over the long term, and discovers what is best for the culture, its citizens, churches and families. There is a resolve to do the right things, with the right people, for the right reasons. Leaders of integrity integrate uprightness with their quiet influence.
“Then the LORD said to Satan, “Have you considered my servant Job? There is no one on earth like him; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil. And he still maintains his integrity, though you incited me against him to ruin him without any reason.” Job 2:3
Therefore, select capable men and women who hold Christ and His commands in high esteem, who you can trust to do and say the right things, implemented in the right way. Leaders of integrity surround themselves with leaders of integrity. There is a high standard in their selection of leaders, because they want to represent the people extremely well. Competence and character are valued over loyal but incompetent friends with suspicious standards of behavior. A leader of integrity delegates to capable leaders.
So, select your leaders in government and church prayerfully, and only after extensive due diligence of their policies, integrity and track record. Blindly betting on one person is a bad process. Instead, select statesmen who will serve the people in the best interests of the country—who surround themselves with the best and the brightest, full of character. Most importantly, choose those who will submit to the accountability of God and man.
The early church experienced a similar selection process of leaders: “Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word (Acts 6:3-4)”.
Who will I select as a leader that is best for my country, my family and my God?
Related Readings: 1 Kings 9:3-5; Psalm 25:21; 78:72; Mark 12:14; 2 Corinthians 1:12
Leaders of Integrity
“But select capable men from all the people—men who fear God, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain—and appoint them as officials over thousands, hundreds, fifties and tens.” Exodus 18:21
Leaders with integrity are a rare breed within a group of citizens, whose utmost concern is, “What is in it for me?” A selfish society does not always select a leader for their integrity, but for their ability to manipulate a quick fix for chronic problems. It is this short sightedness that can set back a generation, because of their leader’s greed and corruption.
However, men and women of integrity understand the big picture of principled leadership, and they value fear of God, trustworthiness and honest economics. A leader of integrity looks out over the long term, and discovers what is best for the culture, its citizens, churches and families. There is a resolve to do the right things, with the right people, for the right reasons. Leaders of integrity integrate uprightness with their quiet influence.
“Then the LORD said to Satan, “Have you considered my servant Job? There is no one on earth like him; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil. And he still maintains his integrity, though you incited me against him to ruin him without any reason.” Job 2:3
Therefore, select capable men and women who hold Christ and His commands in high esteem, who you can trust to do and say the right things, implemented in the right way. Leaders of integrity surround themselves with leaders of integrity. There is a high standard in their selection of leaders, because they want to represent the people extremely well. Competence and character are valued over loyal but incompetent friends with suspicious standards of behavior. A leader of integrity delegates to capable leaders.
So, select your leaders in government and church prayerfully, and only after extensive due diligence of their policies, integrity and track record. Blindly betting on one person is a bad process. Instead, select statesmen who will serve the people in the best interests of the country—who surround themselves with the best and the brightest, full of character. Most importantly, choose those who will submit to the accountability of God and man.
The early church experienced a similar selection process of leaders: “Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word (Acts 6:3-4)”.
Who will I select as a leader that is best for my country, my family and my God?
Related Readings: 1 Kings 9:3-5; Psalm 25:21; 78:72; Mark 12:14; 2 Corinthians 1:12
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