Walk In Contentment

11-30-2012 by Boyd Bailey "But as God has distributed to each one, as the Lord has called each one, so let him walk. And so I ordain in all the churches." 1 Corinthians 7:17 NJKV A walk in contentment learns how to stroll with its Savior Jesus. There is not a panicked rush to make things happen or to give up on God. Rather there is a quiet resolve that Christ can be trusted and there is no need to go anywhere else for assurance. Contentment wards off fear and replaces it with faith. It patiently waits out any unwanted influences. Moreover, contentment is not a call to abandon godly ambition. On the contrary, you are steadfast to persevere in your career or your current leadership role until the Lord transitions you in His timing. You walk by faith—focused. This protects you from running around in aimless activity. You can be satisfied where God has called you and still anticipate where He wants to take you. Contentment rests in doing the next right thing. "For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you." Romans 12:3 Your contented walk moves forward by faith not backward, second guessing God. You ask, why hasn't the Lord blessed me like some of the people I know? Wisdom avoids comparing children, homes, and wardrobes to a friend's. Their lifestyle may be temporary because it is artificially inflated by debt. Or, it may be legitimately the Lord's favor, but a contented walk doesn’t covet another's stuff or seek to impress others with its possessions. Yes, contentment comes with a growing relationship with Christ. As you continue on your contented walk with Jesus, you experience the joy and power of His presence. He is all you need—to be what you need to be. He slows you down to steady your relationships. He speeds you up to seize the moment for His purposes. Be content with the capacity God has given you to serve Him. Your contented soul receives grace to make you whole. “But godliness with contentment is great gain.” 1 Timothy 6:6 Prayer: Heavenly Father, may I walk in contentment and move forward by faith. Related Readings: Ecclesiastes 4:8; Song of Songs 8:10; Luke 3:14; Hebrews 13:5

Walk In Purity

11-29-2012 by Boyd Bailey "Let us walk properly, as in the day, not in revelry and drunkenness, not in lewdness and lust, not in strife and envy." Romans 13:13 NKJV A walk of purity is just the beginning to becoming more like Jesus. There is a consecration to Christ that takes place in the process toward holiness. Indeed, purity is not an end in itself, but a path to holiness. A pure heart wants more of God and has more of God. Yes, the closer we get to Christ the more we abhor sin and embrace righteousness. Purity positions us for the things of God. Being like Him is the ultimate goal. Are you on the path of purity or do you flirt with foolishness? Do you long for integrity to lead you into intimacy with Jesus? Purity without intimacy is just sterile self-discipline devoid of the Spirit's power. But purity packaged with prayer invites the Lord's favor. You matter because your guileless life points to God. You are a trophy of trust in Christ that shines forth with brilliant belief. "Finally then, brethren, we urge and exhort in the Lord Jesus that you should abound more and more, just as you received from us how you ought to walk and to please God." 1 Thessalonians 4:1, NKJV When you walk in purity, you partner with purity. Thus, you avoid impure thinking and compromising situations. Like a noticeable spot on a freshly laundered shirt, your conscience guides you away from gray area stains. Your pure thinking makes friends with fidelity, but enemies with unfaithfulness. The sorrow from the slightest sin sends chills to your clean heart. So, stay pure to enjoy the fruit of peace. Furthermore, purity follows the procession of Christ's train of clean living. Society and unseemly forces will soil your soul. But, invite your Savior to scrub it clean. Your walk of purity is without pretense--open about its struggles and challenges. So, stay honest about your weaknesses and the Lord will walk with you like a righteous bodyguard. A pure walk is not perfect, but it is prayerful. Cling to Christ and His word, and He will cleanse your heart from impurities! "How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to your word." Psalm 119:9 Prayer: Heavenly Father, my heart's desire is to walk in purity with You and for You. Related Readings: Psalm 24:4; Hosea 8:5; 2 Corinthians 6:6; 1 Timothy 4:12, 5:2; 1 Peter 3:2

Walk In Humility

11-28-2012 by Boyd Bailey “Therefore I, the prisoner of the Lord, implore you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing tolerance for one another in love." Ephesians 4:1-2 NASB The Christian life is a step-by-step walk of faith on the path of humility. The goal is not to get ahead of God with fleshly footsteps or to lag behind in fearful procrastination. It is a balance where behavior is molded by beliefs and doing flows from being. A walk with Jesus leads to a talk with Jesus--prayer. It is beautiful to know the Lord longs to linger in lock step with the ones He loves. We walk in humility because this is the cadence of Christ. Our heavenly Father is not interested in us sprinting through life void of the Spirit's power. On the contrary, He smiles when He sees His servants wait on Him to accompany them to the next opportunity. In the process, a walk of humility takes the time to recognize surrounding relationships: the needs, wants and dreams of others. "Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise, exalt and honor the King of heaven, for all His works are true and His ways just, and He is able to humble those who walk in pride.” Daniel 4:37 NASB Are your steps pleasing to the Lord? Are you walking with or away from Jesus? Each of your steps are important because they build on a sequence of wisdom or foolishness. Each step of obedience reveals another footprint in God's will. You may not understand where the final step will find you, but you can be confident of the next step. Thus, in humble submission take the necessary next step in raising your teenager and entrust their ultimate outcome to the Lord. Humility walks with the One who has already won. Pride is dismissed by the patient tolerance of your humility. Because you love others, you trust others. Pride walks alone, but an accountable community accompanies humility. Any autonomy you may experience is required by humility to automatically and voluntarily submit to wise counsel. Thus, you walk in the light of God's love that exposes and disposes the dark deeds of pride. As you walk in humility a pace, powered by grace, sustains you! "Does he not see my ways and count my every step?" Job 31:4 Prayer: Heavenly Father, humble my heart to walk in obedience with You. Related Readings: Proverbs 3:34; Isaiah 13:11; Micah 6:8; Matthew 23:12

Affective Affirmation

11-27-2012 by Boyd Bailey “The LORD bless you, my daughter,” he replied. “This kindness is greater than that which you showed earlier: You have not run after the younger men, whether rich or poor.” Ruth 3:10 Affective affirmation engages the heart and soothes the soul. There is an emotional tipping point that takes place when someone brings acceptance, approval and comfort to a conversation. It builds trust in relationships and moves friendships toward vulnerability. Men long for approval from their wives and women desire attention from their husbands. Affirmation from those who know us the most—means the most. Their support provides security for us. We all want to feel special—we want to be the most important person to the one we love the most. This position of significance positions a relationship for success. The effect of affective affirmation is a healthy environment at home and at work. Negative brow beating and intimidation may get a short-term result at the expense of long-term commitment. We need affirmation like a tender plant needs nurturing. Affirmation grows relationships. “How beautiful you are, my darling! Oh, how beautiful! Your eyes are doves. How handsome you are, my beloved! Oh, how charming! And our bed is verdant.” Song of Songs 1:15-16 Do you intentionally affirm another’s value to you? Do you treat them how you want to be treated and do you grace them with words of significant meaning? The Lord has you in a seat of influence during good and bad times. Therefore, use your role of supervisor, peer, parent, spouse, son, daughter, brother, sister or friend to free others with your approval. Speak into their lives by admitting your struggles and airing your concerns. Affirm them. Most of all seek effective affirmation from your heavenly Father. When you stumble and fall—He picks you up. When you sin—He forgives. When you forget—He remembers. When you lose hope—He gives hope. When you are weak—He is strong. When you are unsure—He is sure. When you are afraid—He is your peace. Your Father in heaven cares about you. When He sees you, He sees His son Jesus—you are 100% affirmed in Him! “I will listen to what God the LORD says; he promises peace to his people, his faithful servants— but let them not turn to folly.” Psalm 85:8 Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for your affirmation in Your son Jesus. Related Readings: Numbers 22:38; Micah 6:9; Luke 10:39; Ephesians 4:29

Brokeness

11-25-2012 by Boyd Bailey The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and a contrite heart, O God, you will not despise. Psalm 51:17 Brokenness by God is beautiful to Him. It is His passageway to purity. It is His entrance into intimacy. It is His plan for our maturity in the faith. However, it is painful and not always pretty. We can become stubborn and selfish in our way of doing things. We need the tender touch of our Lord to lead us away from a hardening heart to one that is broken before Him. An unbroken heart rivals God. A broken heart aligns with God. Unbroken, we are like a stallion in the wild. We need a “heart whisperer” from heaven to tame our spirit. We need God’s bridle of brokenness to bring us under submission. If we buck the breaking of the Holy Spirit, then we are in for a rougher ride. Why push back with pride when the outcome can be joy and gladness with God? He breaks us to build us up. Some things that are broken are discarded. They are done away with because they are more easily replaced than repaired. We can’t drink any longer from a broken glass. It is useless to its user and discarded. Our heart, on the other hand, is not useful until it is broken. When broken by God the heart can no longer be adamant about doing its own thing. A heart is never at its best until it is broken. Brokenness brings out what is on the inside. It reveals where there is still a rascal in rebellion. It is in our brokenness that divine restoration takes place. A heart becomes whole when it is broken. This is the Lord’s way. He doesn’t break us and leave us to suffer in pain and discomfort. It is out of our brokenness that He pulls us close to His heart in compassion and love. Moreover, brokenness is both an event and a process. Your salvation broke you of unbelief and brought you into a right standing with your Savior. However, the Holy Spirit is still breaking your behavior by conforming you into the image of Christ. It is a process whereby your pride decreases and your humility increases. Do not be gullible in thinking you are over the need for a work of God’s grace. Brokenness is a process of becoming more like Jesus. Your Christian maturity didn’t occur when you were first broken; it only began. Brokenness brings us back to our faith in Him. He tames us to trust Him. Therefore, out of your brokenness, present to your Savior the sacrifice of a contrite heart. It may be financial brokenness, relational brokenness, emotional brokenness, or physical brokenness. Wherever the pain is, present it to Him for healing. He restores broken hearts. Lastly, do not be afraid of brokenness. Invite it as a blessing instead of ignoring it as a burden. It is better to be broken a little along the way than to be broken a lot in one fell swoop. Brokenness is God’s way to blessing and change. He breaks our will and restores us into the wisdom of His will. He breaks our spirit and restores us into the security of His Spirit. He breaks our pride and restores us into His humility. He breaks our stubbornness and restores us into His sensitivity. He breaks our harshness and restores us into His kindness. He breaks our greed and restores us into His generosity. He breaks our lust and restores us into His love. He breaks our disobedience and restores us into His obedience. Brokenness is our transformation by His grace and truth. God breaks us to conform us into the image of His son.

Little Is Much

11-24-2012 by Boyd Bailey “‘Truly I tell you,’ he said, ‘this poor widow has put in more than all the others. All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth; but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on’” (Luke 21:3–4). Little becomes much when the Lord is factored into the equation. He takes a little money and multiplies ministries. He receives a little faith and moves mountains and heals sick bodies. He applies a little forgiveness and restores relationships. He blesses a little sacrifice from leadership and saves a business. Christ takes a little courage and fulfills a grand vision. Thus, do not despise your small contribution. It makes a huge difference. Jesus exhorted His disciples regarding the potential of a little faith: “Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you” (Matthew 17:20). You may be the only person at work or in your extended family who stands up for Christian values. It is tempting to ease into the status quo and blend in with a complacent culture. However, with humility and love, stay the course of unselfish service, and you will see Christ work. Exceptions become exceptional with eternal favor and persistence. “One of them [a leper], when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice. He threw himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked him—and he was a Samaritan” (Luke 17:15–16). Do the right thing, even if the majority does not take seriously the Lord’s expectations. Your quiet service is not unnoticed by Jesus. Keep thanking God when others take Him for granted. Persevere in your prayer closet when it seems like prayerless people are progressing. Remain faithful in gift giving, especially when money is tight and uncertain. A little is much when you lay it at the altar of obedience and the Holy Spirit’s fire ignites it for God’s glory. So lay before the Lord your gifts, talents, and faith, and watch Him forge you into a faithful disciple of Jesus. Lay your plan before almighty God, and trust Him to lead you through a prayerful process of implementation and adjustment. A little faith and obedience go a long way in God’s game plan. Joshua brought his army to Jericho expecting a brutal battle, but the Lord simply had him march around the wall and worship! “When the trumpets sounded, the army shouted, and at the sound of the trumpet, when the men gave a loud shout, the wall collapsed; so everyone charged straight in, and they took the city” (Joshua 6:20). Have I laid before the Lord my little faith for Him to multiply and grow for His glory? Related Readings: Leviticus 14:21–22; 1 Kings 17:13–16; Matthew 6:4–6; Luke 10:21

Grateful For Leaders

11-21-2012 by Boyd Bailey “We have enjoyed a long period of peace under you, and your foresight has brought about reforms in this nation. Everywhere and in every way, most excellent Felix, we acknowledge this with profound gratitude.” Acts 24:2-3 Leaders appreciate receiving appreciation. Often they experience isolation that comes with their role and responsibilities. A genuine thank you goes a long way in energizing their will to lead. Ungrateful or insensitive followers challenge the faith of a leader’s good faith. But those who take the time to express their gratitude to those they follow bring honor and encouragement to their leader. Leaders are not to be worshipped, but thanked. How do you express gratitude to your boss, pastor, teacher or coach? Do you have a systematic process to thank those who may serve in thankless roles? Perhaps God would have you become the source for fulfilling the prayers of those who labor in the Lord’s work. How refreshing and practical it is to buy a meal, clothes or a weekend away for your Pastor and his wife. Your tangible appreciation may make the difference in a leader continuing to fight the good fight. Leaders need the support of other friends in Christ. “Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority, because they keep watch over you as those who must give an account. Do this so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no benefit to you.” Hebrews 13:17 Gratitude for the human heart is like gasoline to an automobile’s engine. A fellow leader may be out of gas and in need of your sincere appreciation. What if you prayed for a leader in your life once a week for 12 weeks? It could be the President of a nation or the President of your local Parent Teacher’s Association. Look for leaders who need a prayer. School principals need a pal. Speak a kind word for they normally hear only negative concerns. Furthermore, express your gratitude to God for the godly leaders in your life. If may be your wife, husband, mayor, governor, president, business associate or missionary overseas. Pray to the Lord for them to feel His presence and power in their leadership role. Pray they will walk in the humility and wisdom of Jesus. Leaders need to feel the Lord’s love and approval. A leader appreciated by the Almighty is positioned to lead with love. “So the Lord said to Moses, “Take Joshua son of Nun, a man in whom is the spirit of leadership, and lay your hand on him. Have him stand before Eleazar the priest and the entire assembly and commission him in their presence.” Numbers 27:18-19 Prayer: Heavenly Father, how can I be grateful for those leaders in my life? Related Readings: Acts 11:30; Ephesians 1:15-23; I Timothy 5:17; 1 Thessalonians 5:12

Gratitude Speaks Up

“One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice. He threw himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked him—and he was a Samaritan.” Luke 17:15-16 Gratitude cannot keep quiet. Like a giddy fan at their favorite sporting event—emotions explode in cheers over a well-executed play. Heart felt thanksgiving has to escape and express itself to those who contributed to this cause for joy. If verbal gratitude is withheld then those who remain silent miss out on bringing public praise to God. Ultimately, Jesus is behind every good gift, and many times He uses His people in the process of a blessing. An outcast of society becomes an insider with God through thoughtful and verbal thanksgiving to Him. Do you still exhibit a humble attitude of gratitude or have you graduated beyond gratefulness? In fact, the more you grow in the grace of God, the more thankful you become. You show up and speak up with thanksgiving. At work you thank your team leader for employment and trust God with opportunities for advancement. “We have enjoyed a long period of peace under you, and your foresight has brought about reforms in this nation. Everywhere and in every way, most excellent Felix, we acknowledge this with profound gratitude.” Acts 24:2-3 It is easy to get caught up in busy living and forget to thank those who gave us a chance to develop our gifts for God’s glory. Has your Pastor heard from you since you went off to school and applied his teachings to your life and relationships? Have you gone back and blessed the teacher/mentor who inspired your career? When was the last time you looked your parents in the eyes and explained how their example of consistent character caused you to follow hard after Christ? True thanksgiving takes time to say thank you! Furthermore, it is praise and thanksgiving to God that is the pinnacle of gratitude. Your gratitude to God generates generosity and bubbles up joy in your heart. Your marriage of humility and thanksgiving invites a dinner reception that feasts on contentment, peace, hope, happiness and security. Open wide your mouth with words of thanksgiving and watch the Lord do wonderful works around you. Gratitude speaks up to its Savior! “Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.” Colossians 3:16 Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for healing my heart and giving me Your joy. Related Readings: Psalm 147:7; Jonah 2:9; Romans 16:4; Colossians 4:2

Gratitude Shows Up

11-19-2012 by Boyd Bailey “Godly men buried Stephen and mourned deeply for him.” Acts 8:2 When a life has been well spent and invested in the Kingdom of God, admirers show up to pay honor at their homegoing to heaven. The godly show up to honor the death of the godly. It is gratitude to God that compels Christ followers to attend the funeral of another faithful brother or sister in the faith. Mourning comforts the one suffering loss and shows appreciation for the loved one’s life. Gratitude shows up to empathize with a shaky soul. If we are grateful for someone we show up for the important milestones in their lives. Graduations, school plays, art lessons, surgery, sonograms, athletic events, dance recitals, grandparent’s day, an open house, retirement, or a friend’s big birthday are all events to attend and express support and gratitude. Attendance communicates appreciation. Our body may be weary, but our spirit compels us to be there for those who need us to care. “So we cared for you. Because we loved you so much, we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well.” 1 Thessalonians Gratitude honors your parents. What makes them feel appreciated? Perhaps a handwritten note or a typed letter reflecting how they have blessed you over the years with their love and support— especially during the trying times in your teen years. You can celebrate their wedding anniversary with a surprise destination event they wouldn’t plan for themselves. So, be creative in communicating gratitude to your dad and mom. Furthermore, show up in gratitude for those activities that are near and dear to the heart of your heavenly Father. Church, praise and worship, bible study, missions, community service, loving a dying neighbor and giving hilariously towards heaven’s heart. You are motivated by appreciation because of the Lord’s great love toward you. You can’t out give Christ, but you can express your gratitude to Him by showing up on His behalf! “She is well known for her good deeds, such as bringing up children, showing hospitality, washing the feet of the Lord’s people, helping those in trouble and devoting herself to all kinds of good deeds.” 1 Timothy 5:10 Prayer: Heavenly Father, give me gratitude and gumption to show up for You. Related Readings: Isaiah 30:18; Luke 18:1; 2 Corinthians 12:15; 1 John 3:16

Dollar-Cost Averaging

11-16-2012 by Boyd Bailey “Dishonest money dwindles away, but he who gathers money little by little makes it grow” (Proverbs 13:11). Is there a method to your money management? Do you have a process in place to steadily save over time? If not, it is never too late to set up a system for saving. Some of us struggle with this because we bet on big returns, only to suffer loss. Steadily saving is not sexy but secure. Finances can be an elusive enemy or a friend who has our back. Get-rich-quick schemes only feed greed. In God’s economy, it is those who diligently deposit smaller amounts in a secure place who reap rewards. It is wise wealth that makes the first ten percent of their income a gift offering in the form of a tithe to their heavenly Father and the second ten percent an investment in their future. Money obtained by vanity is spent on vanity, but money gained by hard work and honesty is retained for growth. “Unless the LORD builds the house, the builders labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain. In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat—for he grants sleep to those he loves” (Psalm 127:1–2). It does take discipline not to spend all our earnings in an instant. Commercials and our obligation as consumers exploit our emotions. Culture sucks us in to spend not all we have, but more than we have; so be on guard with a simple system for savings. For example, set up an automatic draft from each paycheck that goes straight into a savings account. Preserve this cash; one day your financial fruit tree will become an orchard. Lastly, look to the Lord as your provider, seeing yourself as a steward of His stuff. The management of your Master’s money requires saving. God’s desire is growth in your financial security so you are free to give more and serve others. So we ask ourselves, “Am I frivolously spending just for today, or am I disciplined each day to deposit a dollar toward tomorrow?” “The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty” (Proverbs 21:5). Prayer: Lord, how would you have me manage Your money today in preparation for tomorrow? Related Readings: Psalm 128:2; Jeremiah 17:11; Ephesians 4:28; James 5:1–5

Remember God

11-15-2012 by Boyd Bailey “Remember that you were slaves in Egypt and the LORD your God redeemed you. That is why I give you this command today.” Deuteronomy 15:15 God gives good memories to His children. The foundation of what He did has freed them by His great grace and love. Sin shackles the soul with insensitive servitude. Its memories are filled with fear, false hopes and fleeting pleasures. But redemption from Jesus buys back those who step onto the auction block of belief. Sin brings heartache, but Christ brings comfort and joy. God memories make a heart smile in gratitude and obedience. Remember we were lost, but now we are found. Remember we lived for ourselves, but now we live for others. Remember we were guilty, but now we are forgiven. Remember we were selfish, but now we are unselfish. Remember we were proud, but now we are humble. Remember God was distant, but now He is our heavenly Father. Remember Jesus was a good teacher, but now He is our Savior. Remember the Holy Spirit was strange, but now He is our personal guide. We remember God and our faith flourishes. “They remembered that God was their Rock, that God Most High was their Redeemer.” Psalm 78:35 Do you suffer from spiritual amnesia? Do you regularly recall the radical love of Christ? He loves you as a beautiful image of His creation. He loves you to the point of laying down His life on your behalf, so by faith you can die to sin and live His resurrected life. The Lord’s ransomed love for you is a special memory of sacrifice. He died for you. Yes, remember how He brought you out of citizenship in this world to become a citizen of His kingdom. You serve a risen Savior, not a lying serpent. Your allegiance is to Almighty God, not the almighty dollar. You walk in the light, not in the darkness. Your soul is prayerful, not self-reliant. Your body is a temple of the Spirit, not an object of abuse. Your mind is renewed by truth. Thus, remember who you are: a child of God! “Therefore, remember that formerly you who are Gentiles by birth and called “uncircumcised” by those who call themselves “the circumcision” (which is done in the body by human hands)— remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ.” Ephesians 2:11-13 Prayer: Heavenly Father, bring to my memory Your generous salvation and love. Related Readings: Psalm 42:4; Isaiah 17:10, 46:9; Luke 22:19; 2 Timothy 1:3

Perfectionism

11-14-2012 by Boyd Bailey "Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect." Matthew 5:48 Does God expect His children to set a goal that is unattainable? Yes, when the motivation is to grow in grace and in the likeness of His son Jesus. The Holy Spirit instructs Christians in heavenly ideals, so their life has earthly appeal. Imperfection seeks perfection, so there can be continual progress in Christ's character development of His fallible followers. The goal of perfection grows us in His divine attributes that are refined over time. So we seek a humble discipline and in the process obtain the greater graces of God. Like a world-class athlete sets a standard of perfection in their personal training, so we press toward the holiness of God as our ultimate outcome. When we fall off the balance beam of life, we get up and get back on. In our zeal for God we can be guilty of false starts, but we line back up and refocus on the real race. We keep our eyes on the prize: Jesus Christ the author and finisher of our faith. "Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me." Philippians 3:12 Perfectionism in and of itself is not the goal, for then we invite frustration and a feeling of failure. Perfectionism pushes out faith and works, and replaces it with fearful procrastination. Are you stuck in a need for everything to be perfect before your next step? If so, shed paralysis from analysis and move forward by faith. You can trust the Lord to fill in the imperfect gaps with His perfect grace. Indeed, out of your intimacy with Jesus you can embrace His ideals. Furthermore, as you grow in knowing God through His word, prayer, and serving others, you will understand and emulate His heart. You want to be like the one you love and know the best. No, you will not become sinless in this life, but you can become more like the Sinless One—Jesus. In Christ you are perfect in your heavenly Father's eyes! "But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me." 2 Corinthians 12:9 Prayer: Heavenly Father, grow me into the perfect image of Your son Jesus Christ. Related Readings: Leviticus 19:2; Isaiah 26:3; Philippians 3:13-14; 1 Peter 1:15-16

Give and Take

11-13-2012 by Boyd Bailey "Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I will depart. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised.” Job 1:21 The Lord gives and the Lord takes. He gives life and He takes life. He gives relationships and He takes relationships. He gives blessings and He takes blessings. He gives prosperity and He takes prosperity. He gives opportunities and He takes opportunities. He gives health and He takes health. He gives and takes but He still deserves praise! It is easy to praise God when He gives us good things, but it is hard to praise Him when He takes away good things. Yet, it is the power of praise to the Lord that empowers our faith to endure. Praise to Jesus prompts us to persevere in belief and obedience. He realigns our heart and mind to heaven's expectations instead of bowing to earth's demands. When God gives it’s a blessing and when He takes it is a blessing. He knows our needs. "As you know, we count as blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy." James 5:11 Furthermore, the Lord is full of compassion and mercy. His character is not cruel, but caring. He is not harsh, but kind. The Lord is gracious, not mean spirited. However, He is jealous for you. He delights in you for who you are, and who you can become by His grace. His loyal love will not allow you to be enamored with someone or something that competes with Him. Christ removes any competitors of exclusive devotion to Him. Therefore, you can be content and grateful for the lot in life God has given you. Perhaps He has you in your current career for the growth of your character and competence. Sometimes He rains down grace and other times the sun of adversity beats down in a sweat of suffering. The Lord gives and takes in His timing for His glory. Thus, hold loosely His blessings and burdens, and be ready to receive His great grace and love. “Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.” Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, “If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.” James 4:13-15 Prayer: Heavenly Father, I trust You in all seasons: when You give and when You take. Related Readings: Job 2:10; Numbers 14:18; Acts 18:21; Hebrews 10:36

Disobedience Disrupts

11-12-2012 by Boyd Bailey “Pick me up and throw me into the sea,” he replied, “and it will become calm. I know that it is my fault that this great storm has come upon you.” Jonah 1:12 Disobedience is indiscriminate in its influence. It exploits the emotional psyche of children who feel abandonment from their parents’ divorce. One person’s mismanagement of money can bring down the financial fortunes of a company, church, ministry, government or family. One bad decision can cause a series of negative scenarios. Sin is not experienced in a vacuum, its tentacles of trouble wrap around innocent lives. Because Jonah ran from God he brought into relationships his baggage of disobedience. Innocent bystanders became victims of one man’s foolish behavior. We all have to examine our hearts and make sure we are not projecting our problems onto other people. Are we bringing unresolved anger into our marriage or workplace relationships? Are we running from God or toward God? Indeed, obedience is the remedy for disobedience. “For just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous.” Romans 5:19 Are you comfortable with a sin that brings discomfort to those around you? What will it take for you to release it to God, before He releases you to the enemy? Yes, willful disobedience is a dangerous game. It is like an unrighteous round of Russian roulette that commits spiritual suicide. But you do not have to gamble with God. The bets of bad behavior are off when you confess, repent and turn to Christ. He brings calm to the storm. Moreover, if you are an innocent bystander to another’s bad behavior, look to God for relief. Give them to Him for His care and concern. It is hard to not be fearful of their fate and yours, however you can trust Jesus to judge wisely. Your obedience to Christ models the cure for your friend’s disobedience. And, be willing to release the relationship, so they suffer the consequences and believe God. Pain can produce obedience and salvation. “Son though he was, he learned obedience from what he suffered and, once made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him.” Hebrews 5:8-9 Prayer: Heavenly Father, give me a heart of obedience and prayer for the disobedient. Related Readings: Jeremiah 7:23; 2 Samuel 24:17; Acts 15:11; Philippians 2:8

Friends Of Sinners

11-7-2012 by Boyd Bailey “The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and you say, ‘Here is a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners.” Luke 7:34 Jesus was a friend of sinners. Yes! Holiness helped unholiness. Godliness gave to ungodliness. Perfection served imperfection. The sinless mingled with sin. Christ was guilty of influencing the guilty toward God—for He was God. He ate with them, He drank with them and He laughed with them. His life of love was irresistible to those who lacked true love. His clear, authoritative teaching gave hope, forgiveness, and peace. Like spiritual sonar Jesus came to seek and save the lost. His heart broke for the broken. We are all sinners, yet there is a difference between a sinner who knows Jesus and a sinner who does not know Jesus. Because we have been saved by the grace of God, we know a better way than the way of waywardness. Like any good father our Father in heaven wants a relationship with His children. By faith in His son Jesus we have full access to Almighty God. We are friends with Jesus, so we can befriend others for Jesus. “And the scripture was fulfilled that says, “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness,” and he was called God’s friend.” James 2:23 Are your friendships only with those within the faith? Are any outsiders a part of your circle of influence? If so, wonderful—if not, pray for a person who needs your loving hospitality. Like an athletic team you have a home court advantage when you invite someone into your home. Show them a good time, so they can see that God is good by your unselfish service. Sinners need a safe environment to feel accepted and be real. Maybe you accept an invitation from an unsaved friend on their terms. It may be a golf game, a tennis match, a hike in the woods or a party. Be pleasant, not preachy. Be a friend with no agenda but to love and be loved. Do not compromise your Biblical convictions — you are in the world without being of the world. Some will find you crazy for your crazy love, but love nonetheless. Sinners need a friend. Are you a friend? “Now the tax collectors and sinners were all gathering around to hear Jesus. But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.” Luke 15:1-2 Prayer: Heavenly Father, give me a heart for those who need a new heart for You. Related Readings: Isaiah 41:8; Luke 19:10; Colossians 4:5-6; James 4:4

Kings and Presidents

11-6-2012 by Boyd Bailey “I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness” (1Timothy 2:1–2). Kings and presidents come and go, but while in office they require much prayer. Public servants need sincere supplications from servants of the Lord. These leaders of nations have the power to inflict harm or uphold justice. They can pass laws that lead to fiscal irresponsibility or wisely legislate financial protection for the country. It is God’s response to our prayers, not pundits, who reveals the wisest choices. Our president is a mere man, but he is a man under the authority of almighty God. His mandate is not first from earthly man, but first and foremost from his Father in heaven. Rulers, who recognize and embrace their accountability of the temporal to the eternal, rule most wisely. Pray our president will lead us to live faithful and contented lives under Christ’s lordship. Pray our commander in chief will receive inspiration and instruction from the Commander in Chief. Pray for our president to look into the future with eyes of faith and create a culture of character for our children and grandchildren. Indeed, your prayers for the president are “good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth” (1 Timothy 2:3–4 NASB). Prayer: What day of the week can I take five minutes and pray for our president to have the wisdom to make the best decisions and the courage to follow through, regardless of the consequences? Related Readings: Nehemiah 1:11; Ecclesiastes 3:12–13; Romans 13:1–7; 1 Peter 2:9–13

False Religion

11-1-2012 by Boyd Bailey “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?’ Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!” Matthew 7:21-23 There is a false religion that is absent of authentic faith in Jesus Christ. A person who lacks a real relationship with the Lord can know all the right words to say, but does not know the Word that became flesh. This fake follower of Jesus may mislead other church members, but they can’t deceive the ultimate judge—Almighty God. A desperate plea after death does not change an eternal conclusion determined in life. A false faith fails. Therefore, we are all wise to examine our hearts and ask the Holy Spirit to validate our conversation to Christ. It is the Spirit of our Heavenly Father that drew us to Himself and it is the same Spirit of God that affirms our faith. We do not pass from death to life by just living in a household of faith—we come to Christ by taking hold of faith in Him. Our transaction of trust in Jesus seals our soul’s fate to be with Jesus. He keeps us secure. “No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them, and I will raise them up at the last day.” John 6:44 Are you a counterfeit follower of Christ or a true disciple? Are you sure of your salvation? If you are in doubt, seek out your Savior Jesus who can remove your concerns. Cry to Him in confession and repentance from your sin of unbelief and embrace your Lord in fidelity of faith. Just as marriage is a public commitment of a man and woman, so your conversation is a public commitment of your total trust in Jesus. Other sincere saints who humbly seek the Lord surround you in prayer and support, and God offers assurance. So seek the Lord with an honest heart and He will keep you pure. The Holy Spirit is able to flush out false religion and replace it with genuine faith in Jesus. He is able to remove unscrupulous motives and exchange them for a motivation of love and obedience. Yes, examine your heart, but more importantly allow the Lord to do a spiritual examination. God validates your salvation on this side of death, so there are no surprises on the other side. So, confess Jesus as Lord now and there will be no doubt about your confession later. “If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9 Prayer: Heavenly Father, I trust Jesus as Lord of my life and to save my soul. Related Readings: Hosea 8:12; Romans 8:16; Ephesians 1:17; 1 John 3:24