Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
GOD HUGS!
by Cathy Weymouth
Tuesday 6/29/10 Amos 4-6; Ps 86,87; Titus 1 - GOD HUGS!
S- Ps 86:15,17 You, O Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness. Give me a sign of your goodness, that my enemies may see it and be put to shame, for you, O Lord, have helped me and comforted me.
O - In the midst of being attacked by his enemies, David cries out to God for help in this psalm. He asks for guidance and mercy while acknowledging God's goodness, compassion and comfort.
A - We all need experiences of God's love. It's not enough to hear about other people's stories of how God blessed and touched them. About 10 years ago I began to watch for signs of God's love that were unique and very personal. These are not coincidences; they are God Hugs! I have found His love from dishware with grapevines to rainbows in the sky on a grieving day. I see His wink to me from deer in a pasture to an encouraging word from a friend just when I needed it. Ask, open your eyes and watch! It's so fun.
P - Father, thank you for your compassionate and loving nature. Thank you for revealing to me signs of your intimate love for me. I pray that others will see these signs in their life and give you glory when receiving them. May the world see how much you love us! (It's easy to share stories of God Hugs to nonbelievers by saying, "See how much God loves me!")
Tuesday 6/29/10 Amos 4-6; Ps 86,87; Titus 1 - GOD HUGS!
S- Ps 86:15,17 You, O Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness. Give me a sign of your goodness, that my enemies may see it and be put to shame, for you, O Lord, have helped me and comforted me.
O - In the midst of being attacked by his enemies, David cries out to God for help in this psalm. He asks for guidance and mercy while acknowledging God's goodness, compassion and comfort.
A - We all need experiences of God's love. It's not enough to hear about other people's stories of how God blessed and touched them. About 10 years ago I began to watch for signs of God's love that were unique and very personal. These are not coincidences; they are God Hugs! I have found His love from dishware with grapevines to rainbows in the sky on a grieving day. I see His wink to me from deer in a pasture to an encouraging word from a friend just when I needed it. Ask, open your eyes and watch! It's so fun.
P - Father, thank you for your compassionate and loving nature. Thank you for revealing to me signs of your intimate love for me. I pray that others will see these signs in their life and give you glory when receiving them. May the world see how much you love us! (It's easy to share stories of God Hugs to nonbelievers by saying, "See how much God loves me!")
Monday, June 28, 2010
IN SEASON AND OUT
by Diana Kriesel
Monday, 6/28/10 – Amos 1-3; Psalm 80; 2 Timothy 3 - “In Season and Out”
S – 2 Timothy 4:2 – “Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season.”
NIV
O – Paul exhorts Timothy that proclaiming the Word of God was to be the main focus of his life, whether times are good, or in adversity; whether it is convenient or not. It is to be our pressing urgency to embrace every opportunity to make Christ known. Paul seems to be speaking out of a heart full of love for the Savior and for souls…if we have this heart attitude, we will be compelled…unstoppable.
A – “Preach the Word” implies knowing the Word, rightly dividing it and making it understandable and applicable to the lives of people. We must first receive before we can transmit; in other words, we cannot give what we do not first have. This command of Paul brings a sense of urgency to be Kingdom focused; Word focused; and impassioned for souls.
P – Lord, burn into us a desire to be instant, ready, urgent; whether convenient or inconvenient. We desire to be carriers of Truth, the Truth that can bring freedom and salvation! May we not cower in the face of obstacles, but rather press through for Your Kingdom’s sake.
Monday, 6/28/10 – Amos 1-3; Psalm 80; 2 Timothy 3 - “In Season and Out”
S – 2 Timothy 4:2 – “Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season.”
NIV
O – Paul exhorts Timothy that proclaiming the Word of God was to be the main focus of his life, whether times are good, or in adversity; whether it is convenient or not. It is to be our pressing urgency to embrace every opportunity to make Christ known. Paul seems to be speaking out of a heart full of love for the Savior and for souls…if we have this heart attitude, we will be compelled…unstoppable.
A – “Preach the Word” implies knowing the Word, rightly dividing it and making it understandable and applicable to the lives of people. We must first receive before we can transmit; in other words, we cannot give what we do not first have. This command of Paul brings a sense of urgency to be Kingdom focused; Word focused; and impassioned for souls.
P – Lord, burn into us a desire to be instant, ready, urgent; whether convenient or inconvenient. We desire to be carriers of Truth, the Truth that can bring freedom and salvation! May we not cower in the face of obstacles, but rather press through for Your Kingdom’s sake.
Saturday, June 26, 2010
God's Love Despite our Imperfections
S - 2 Tim. 221 - "a vessel for honor, sanctified and useful for the Master"
O - Both Jonah and Timothy are servants of God with a specific call on their lives, and both are "useful for the Master". Jonah had the call and gifting of the prophet, and Timothy was called to be a teacher and pastor. Jonah was confident, strong-willed, judgemental, and was an angry, volatile person. Timothy, on the other hand, seems far more gentle, merciful, and stable, but may have been more timid and passive. Paul felt a need to encourage him and push him forward a bit. Both may have been reluctant servants of God, but for entirely different reasons. Jonah needed to be redirected, sometimes forcibly, and Timothy needed to be gently pushed forward. You may see this in your children: one who is into everything and very strong willed, and another who is more teachable, but unsure of herself.
A - The lesson I learn from this is to remember that we are all individuals and what ministers to or motivates one person, may not be effective with another.
P - Lord, I thank you that you know each one of us and what we need. I thank you for your mercy and patience and the many opportunities that you give us to make up for wrong choices and missed opportunities. I thank you that you treat us as individuals, and I pray that we will not forget to treat others that way. Sharpen our insight to seeing and appreciating each others strengths, and may we be patient and understanding of the weaknesses of others, just as we would want others to treat us.
O - Both Jonah and Timothy are servants of God with a specific call on their lives, and both are "useful for the Master". Jonah had the call and gifting of the prophet, and Timothy was called to be a teacher and pastor. Jonah was confident, strong-willed, judgemental, and was an angry, volatile person. Timothy, on the other hand, seems far more gentle, merciful, and stable, but may have been more timid and passive. Paul felt a need to encourage him and push him forward a bit. Both may have been reluctant servants of God, but for entirely different reasons. Jonah needed to be redirected, sometimes forcibly, and Timothy needed to be gently pushed forward. You may see this in your children: one who is into everything and very strong willed, and another who is more teachable, but unsure of herself.
A - The lesson I learn from this is to remember that we are all individuals and what ministers to or motivates one person, may not be effective with another.
P - Lord, I thank you that you know each one of us and what we need. I thank you for your mercy and patience and the many opportunities that you give us to make up for wrong choices and missed opportunities. I thank you that you treat us as individuals, and I pray that we will not forget to treat others that way. Sharpen our insight to seeing and appreciating each others strengths, and may we be patient and understanding of the weaknesses of others, just as we would want others to treat us.
Friday, June 25, 2010
POWER, LOVE & SOUND MIND
Joel 1-3; 2 Timothy 1
POWER, LOVE & SOUND MIND
by Mary White
S--2Timothy 1:7 “For God has not given us a spirit of fear (timidity) but a Spirit of Power of Love and of a Sound Mind.”
O--Paul is writing to encourage Timothy…to build him up, and to bolster his confidence.
A--Whenever I sense fear or intimidation come over me I find great encouragement in this scripture. I need to remember who I am in Christ, and the tools He has given me which are: the Spirit of power, love and of a sound mind. In vs. 6 Paul says, “fan the flame, the gift of God which is in you…” A fire can die out, at times we need to fan the flame. I don’t want the flame of the Holy Spirit to die out in me, but I want to grow in power, love and soundness of mind.
P-- Oh God thank you for Your Word, help me to live it and to encourage others to live in their giftings…power, love and soundness of mind.
POWER, LOVE & SOUND MIND
by Mary White
S--2Timothy 1:7 “For God has not given us a spirit of fear (timidity) but a Spirit of Power of Love and of a Sound Mind.”
O--Paul is writing to encourage Timothy…to build him up, and to bolster his confidence.
A--Whenever I sense fear or intimidation come over me I find great encouragement in this scripture. I need to remember who I am in Christ, and the tools He has given me which are: the Spirit of power, love and of a sound mind. In vs. 6 Paul says, “fan the flame, the gift of God which is in you…” A fire can die out, at times we need to fan the flame. I don’t want the flame of the Holy Spirit to die out in me, but I want to grow in power, love and soundness of mind.
P-- Oh God thank you for Your Word, help me to live it and to encourage others to live in their giftings…power, love and soundness of mind.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
P-Lord, increase our respecThursday June 24, 2010 2 Kings 11,12 2 Chron 24:1 Tim: 6 Respect & Honor
S- 1Tim 6:2 Those who have believing masters are not to show less respect for them because they are brothers. Instead, they are to serve them even better, because those
who benefit from their service are believers, and dear to them. These are the things you are to teach.t and honor for our Pastors and leaders. Help us to serve them with a joyous heart and to do all things without complaining and mumbling.
We pray for those that you have called to serve for your kingdom, and ask a 10 fold blessing upon them, and may we openly bless those who you whisper in our ear
for us to bless.
O- Paul is saying to Timothy to be sure that the servants respects their leaders. Sad that he would have to say that, but Christian believer's have been known to disrepect and
talk badly about those that are the leaders. Paul, strongly tells Timothy that this is not good, we need to honor God by honoring and respecting those He has placed in charge.
Paul says, for it is the believer's who benefit, because true Godly leaders, love those that serve, and we benefit.
Also, we come into the world with nothing and we will leave with nothing. To take what we have and
use it freely for the kingdom, and we would surley be blessed here on earth.
A- We are fortunate to have leaders who want what God wants, and who seek to find what He wants and do their best to follow His heart. We need to keep our hearts
clean even when we do not agree with decisions or if the music is too loud, or if the order of service is not the way we like it. God says to honor and respect those we serve,
and this will honor Him. It is easy to submit when you agree, but God calls us to submit even when we dont, and do it with joy, because that is what pleases Him. Do not
hold on to your treasures and your money here on earth, fo it is worth nothing when you die. The worth comes from what you did with it while you were here.
P-Lord, increase our respect and honor for our Pastors and leaders. Help us to serve them with a joyous heart and to do all things without complaining and mumbling. We pray for those that you have called to serve for your kingdom, and ask a 10 fold blessing upon them, and may we openly bless those who you whisper in our ear for us to bless.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
DISCIPLINE
Wednesday - June 23, 2010 - 2 Kings 10, 2 Chronicles 22, 23; 1 Timothy 5
S - 2 Timothy 5:21 I charge you, in the sight of God and Christ Jesus and the elect angels, to keep these instructions without partiality, and to do nothing out of favoritism.
O - Paul was telling Timothy how to treat elders. Paul had just said the elders of the church who are sinning are to be reproved before everyone.
A - Church discipline is difficult to mete out. People are in church by choice and are volunteers in what they do. And so, it is difficult for us to openly rebuke, as the word says, because we know these people can just walk away and we don't want to see them do that. If a sin is publicly known, then it most definitely needs to be publicly rebuked.
P - Lord, help me to keep your Word, even when it is uncomfortable for me to do so.
O - Paul was telling Timothy how to treat elders. Paul had just said the elders of the church who are sinning are to be reproved before everyone.
A - Church discipline is difficult to mete out. People are in church by choice and are volunteers in what they do. And so, it is difficult for us to openly rebuke, as the word says, because we know these people can just walk away and we don't want to see them do that. If a sin is publicly known, then it most definitely needs to be publicly rebuked.
P - Lord, help me to keep your Word, even when it is uncomfortable for me to do so.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
DO NOT NEGLECT YOUR GIFT
by Cathy Weymouth
Tuesday 6/22/10 2 Kings 8,9; 2 Chr 21; 1 Timothy 4 -
DO NOT NEGLECT YOUR GIFT
S - 1 Timothy 4:14 NIV, Do not neglect your gift, which was given you through a prophetic message when the body of elders laid their hands on you. AMP - Do not neglect the gift, [that special inward endowment] which was directly imparted to you [by the Holy Spirit].
O - Paul is instructed his student, Timothy, in this letter. He is reminding him to be diligent, to live a holy life, to take care of the gift imparted to him - so that he would be an example to the Ephesian believers and so that others would be saved. How important our spiritual gifts are - to both the body of Christ and those who are not yet saved.
A - Are you taking care of you gift, imparted to you by the Holy Spirit? Are you fostering it, nourishing it, using it? Gosh, I struggle when I see gifts that are being wasted; it really bothers me. Each of us is given a special unique way of ministering the Spirit to others. We have but one life - to use this gift, to make an impact for the Kingdom. Please don't waste your gift. It brings you life, it brings others life, it may even be used to bring pre-Believers into the Kingdom! I speak Paul's words to you from 2 Tim 1:6, "I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you..."
P - Father, I thank you for the gifts of music and teaching that you have imparted to me. I thank you for parents who encouraged, fostered, supported these gifts in time and money. I thank you for my pastors who provide me with opportunities to use my gifts. I pray that You open doors for others to foster and use theirs.
Tuesday 6/22/10 2 Kings 8,9; 2 Chr 21; 1 Timothy 4 -
DO NOT NEGLECT YOUR GIFT
S - 1 Timothy 4:14 NIV, Do not neglect your gift, which was given you through a prophetic message when the body of elders laid their hands on you. AMP - Do not neglect the gift, [that special inward endowment] which was directly imparted to you [by the Holy Spirit].
O - Paul is instructed his student, Timothy, in this letter. He is reminding him to be diligent, to live a holy life, to take care of the gift imparted to him - so that he would be an example to the Ephesian believers and so that others would be saved. How important our spiritual gifts are - to both the body of Christ and those who are not yet saved.
A - Are you taking care of you gift, imparted to you by the Holy Spirit? Are you fostering it, nourishing it, using it? Gosh, I struggle when I see gifts that are being wasted; it really bothers me. Each of us is given a special unique way of ministering the Spirit to others. We have but one life - to use this gift, to make an impact for the Kingdom. Please don't waste your gift. It brings you life, it brings others life, it may even be used to bring pre-Believers into the Kingdom! I speak Paul's words to you from 2 Tim 1:6, "I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you..."
P - Father, I thank you for the gifts of music and teaching that you have imparted to me. I thank you for parents who encouraged, fostered, supported these gifts in time and money. I thank you for my pastors who provide me with opportunities to use my gifts. I pray that You open doors for others to foster and use theirs.
Monday, June 21, 2010
God says, "I Got This!"
by Diana Kriesel
Monday, 6/21/10 – 2 Kings 6,7; 2 Chronicles 20; 1 Timothy 3 - “God says: 'I Got This!'”
S – 2 Chronicles 20:17-“You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the LORD will give you, O Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the LORD will be with you.'"
O – After Jehoshaphat’s prayer, the Spirit of the Lord came upon Jahaziel and empowered him to give them a message of comfort. He exhorted them that the battle was not theirs, but God’s. He was telling them that the next day they should depart and meet the enemy, but when the enemy was in sight they need to stand and watch what God would do. They worshiped and the Lord caused confusion among the enemy troops and they turned against one another. The slaughter was so great the men of Judah could not carry away all of the plunder, following which they gathered to offer praise to God for His enduring love. God is more in control than we often realize. It's as if He says, "I got this!"
A – This is a great reminder that the battle is not ours, but the Lord’s! Also, that we are to ‘stand firm’ and we will see the deliverance the Lord will give to us. We are commanded not to fear or be discouraged, and as we gird ourselves in faith, we can go out in our “tomorrow” and face what is ahead…but not alone.
P – Lord thank You for the power of this story! Teach us that in the battle, we can know that OUR responsibility is not to fight, but to take up our position, stand firm and watch You work on our behalf. We can lay this verse as a bridge to our tomorrows, so that we proceed in faith and not fear, courage and not discouragement, knowing that You will be with us.
Monday, 6/21/10 – 2 Kings 6,7; 2 Chronicles 20; 1 Timothy 3 - “God says: 'I Got This!'”
S – 2 Chronicles 20:17-“You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the LORD will give you, O Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the LORD will be with you.'"
O – After Jehoshaphat’s prayer, the Spirit of the Lord came upon Jahaziel and empowered him to give them a message of comfort. He exhorted them that the battle was not theirs, but God’s. He was telling them that the next day they should depart and meet the enemy, but when the enemy was in sight they need to stand and watch what God would do. They worshiped and the Lord caused confusion among the enemy troops and they turned against one another. The slaughter was so great the men of Judah could not carry away all of the plunder, following which they gathered to offer praise to God for His enduring love. God is more in control than we often realize. It's as if He says, "I got this!"
A – This is a great reminder that the battle is not ours, but the Lord’s! Also, that we are to ‘stand firm’ and we will see the deliverance the Lord will give to us. We are commanded not to fear or be discouraged, and as we gird ourselves in faith, we can go out in our “tomorrow” and face what is ahead…but not alone.
P – Lord thank You for the power of this story! Teach us that in the battle, we can know that OUR responsibility is not to fight, but to take up our position, stand firm and watch You work on our behalf. We can lay this verse as a bridge to our tomorrows, so that we proceed in faith and not fear, courage and not discouragement, knowing that You will be with us.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Wandererd Away
S- 1 Tim. 1:6 - "Some have wandered away ..."
O - We start out this walk with a clear sense of the fact that we are sinners in need of a Savior and the knowledge that God loves us and has a plan for our life. The Word of God and the Holy Spirit become our guide. This is sometimes called "first love" in the bible. Then life happens and disappointments come. Failures can disillusion us and successes can distract us. Sin can so easily creep in. Without fully realizing it, we can wander from God, from his Word, from godly doctrine and lifestyle and from being an active part of a church.
A - Paul calls Timothy and us to "fight the good fight, holding on to faith and a good conscience." To do that we need to pay attention to God's word, the Holy Spirit, and to our own spiritual condition. We need to look in and look around us, and ask ourself "Where am I spiritually? Have I wandered off the path?"
P - Lord, open my eyes to my true spiritual condition and my need for you, your Word and your Holy Spirit.
O - We start out this walk with a clear sense of the fact that we are sinners in need of a Savior and the knowledge that God loves us and has a plan for our life. The Word of God and the Holy Spirit become our guide. This is sometimes called "first love" in the bible. Then life happens and disappointments come. Failures can disillusion us and successes can distract us. Sin can so easily creep in. Without fully realizing it, we can wander from God, from his Word, from godly doctrine and lifestyle and from being an active part of a church.
A - Paul calls Timothy and us to "fight the good fight, holding on to faith and a good conscience." To do that we need to pay attention to God's word, the Holy Spirit, and to our own spiritual condition. We need to look in and look around us, and ask ourself "Where am I spiritually? Have I wandered off the path?"
P - Lord, open my eyes to my true spiritual condition and my need for you, your Word and your Holy Spirit.
Friday, June 18, 2010
SEASONED WITH SALT
by Mary White
S--Col. 4:6 “Let your conversation be always full of grace seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.”
O--Paul is writing instructions for living an effective and positive life.
A--What a great community we would have if our speech were full of grace and seasoned with salt (flavor and wholesomeness). I believe if we talked in that fashion we would be listened to, and considered. Have you ever said “I want to tell it as it is!” Well we can be honest, forthright and “tell it like it is,” and still be filled with grace.
P--Oh God, help me to think before I speak. I want my conversations to be honest, clear, wholesome and full of grace
S--Col. 4:6 “Let your conversation be always full of grace seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.”
O--Paul is writing instructions for living an effective and positive life.
A--What a great community we would have if our speech were full of grace and seasoned with salt (flavor and wholesomeness). I believe if we talked in that fashion we would be listened to, and considered. Have you ever said “I want to tell it as it is!” Well we can be honest, forthright and “tell it like it is,” and still be filled with grace.
P--Oh God, help me to think before I speak. I want my conversations to be honest, clear, wholesome and full of grace
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Thursday June 17, 2010 1 Kings 20,21 2 Chr. 17 Col. 3 S-Col 3:12 "Chosen & Choice"
Thursday June 17, 2010
1 Kings 20,21 2 Chr. 17 Col. 3
S-Col 3:12 "Chosen & Choice" NIV Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
MSG. So, chosen by God for this new life of love, dress in the wardrobe God picked out for you: compassion, kindness, humility, quiet strength, discipline.
O- Paul, speaking from prison to the Collossians about being "chosen" and "choosing" to follow Chirst and His ways. Many false teacher were preaching messages and people who called themselves christians were not living a christian life, but rather following a worldly life and setting your eyes to the ground, absorbed in the things around you. Paul's plea is, put on the "chosen" garments of Christ" perfectly suited for you, and don't settled for what is old battered and torn.....it doesn't fit, what He has called you to.
A- Everytime I see the word "chosen" in scripture, it not only reminds me that I was chose, but also I was chosen with a choice. The choice was mine to follow Christ, and do choose the things of Godly perspective and put down the things of the world. In the message bible it is specific to the wardrobe being, compassion, kindness, humility, quiet strength, discipline. That's a pretty tough outfit to where when your hidden under garments are selfishness, unforgiveness, jealousy, anger. Paul is saying even that what is hidden is to be of Christ and not of the earthly masters. Wear Christ garment all the way through even the unseen.
P-Father, sometimes I can look good on the outside, but my heart and my thoughts are yucky on the inside. Forgive me Lord, and I ask you to help with having a Godly perspective and a heart to see like you see, and to think with compassion like you do. Your Grace is sufficient for me, let me extend that same grace to others. Lord teach us to how to wear the finest wardrobe, and not "expensive labels" but rather your labels, or love, compassion and patience......and thank you Lord that discipline is included, we need your discipline every day, every moment. Amen.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
FOCUS ON HIM
by Vivian Bills
Wednesday - June 16, 2010 - 1 Kings 17-19; Colossians 2
S- Colossians 2:21 -Such regulations indeed have an appearance of wisdom, with their self-imposed worship, their false humility and their harsh treatment of the body, but they lack any value in restraining sensual indulgence.
O - Paul is talking about the rules of "Don't do this and don't do that." He says they are pretty useless.
A - So what does work to keep you from sinning? Living a life in Christ does. If you focus on Christ and what He did on the cross and how much you love Him, there is no room for sin.
P - Lord, help me to keep my focus on You and not on the temptation set before me. Strengthen me Lord, with the knowledge of You and Your great love.
O - Paul is talking about the rules of "Don't do this and don't do that." He says they are pretty useless.
A - So what does work to keep you from sinning? Living a life in Christ does. If you focus on Christ and what He did on the cross and how much you love Him, there is no room for sin.
P - Lord, help me to keep my focus on You and not on the temptation set before me. Strengthen me Lord, with the knowledge of You and Your great love.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
THE EMPOWERING WORD OF THE LORD
by Cathy Weymouth
Tuesday 6/15/10 - 1 Ki 16; 2 Chr 15,16; Col 1 - THE EMPOWERING WORD OF THE LORD
S- 2 Chr 15:1,2,7,8 - The Spirit of God came upon Azariah. He went out to meet Asa (King of Judah) and said to him, "Listen to me... As for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded." When Asa heard these words and the prophecy of Azariah the prophet, he took courage. He removed the detestable idols from the whole land... He repaired the altar of the Lord.
O- The nation of Judah was blessed with King Asa for years. He listened to the prophet's words and removed idols and repaired the altar of the Lord in front of the temple. He led them in seeking God. He took the word and ran with it.
A- There is something really powerful that happens when we receive a word from the Lord; it empowers us like nothing else can. My friend and I were recalling the effect that the Lord's words had on her life: He spoke to her one day running that she would lose 20 pounds. That personal word spurred her on and kept her going. It gave her hope and determination. It was a promise that she held on to with full belief. And she indeed lost 20 pounds!
P- Lord, please give us your word. May we listen for it, believe it when we receive it, and believe it even more when the tough times come. May we believe in the dark what we received in the light - never doubting the word but pressing on with it in our hands and hearts. May we never give up and may our work be rewarded too, like King Asa's!
Tuesday 6/15/10 - 1 Ki 16; 2 Chr 15,16; Col 1 - THE EMPOWERING WORD OF THE LORD
S- 2 Chr 15:1,2,7,8 - The Spirit of God came upon Azariah. He went out to meet Asa (King of Judah) and said to him, "Listen to me... As for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded." When Asa heard these words and the prophecy of Azariah the prophet, he took courage. He removed the detestable idols from the whole land... He repaired the altar of the Lord.
O- The nation of Judah was blessed with King Asa for years. He listened to the prophet's words and removed idols and repaired the altar of the Lord in front of the temple. He led them in seeking God. He took the word and ran with it.
A- There is something really powerful that happens when we receive a word from the Lord; it empowers us like nothing else can. My friend and I were recalling the effect that the Lord's words had on her life: He spoke to her one day running that she would lose 20 pounds. That personal word spurred her on and kept her going. It gave her hope and determination. It was a promise that she held on to with full belief. And she indeed lost 20 pounds!
P- Lord, please give us your word. May we listen for it, believe it when we receive it, and believe it even more when the tough times come. May we believe in the dark what we received in the light - never doubting the word but pressing on with it in our hands and hearts. May we never give up and may our work be rewarded too, like King Asa's!
Monday, June 14, 2010
Peace That Surpasses All Understanding
by Diana Kriesel
Monday, 6/14/10 – 1 Kings 15; 2 Chronicles 13,14; Philippians 4 – “Peace that Surpasses All Understanding”
S – Philippians 4:7 – “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”
O – God’s peace has an amazing harmonizing capacity-bringing our hearts to a settled and stable place. Because He dwells in our heart, and rules our heart, He keeps our heart in peace. It passes understanding because it is of a different nature from any human peace, it is a peace which He has purchased, and which comes from the Father through the power of the Holy Spirit.
A – This is a great verse to remind us that because Christ indwells us, we have access to an amazing gift: the peace of God! This peace comes to us when we choose right thinking, right praying, and right living. Worry is the tension between the mind and the heart. The peace of God will act as a guard for our heart and mind if we meet the conditions He gives.
P – Lord of Peace, we ask for an anointing on our minds and hearts so that we will have sharp discernment when we choose the road of worry, or any road contrary to Your peace. Teach us to submerge ourselves In the truth of Your love and grace so that we live our lives out of your amazing peace!
Monday, 6/14/10 – 1 Kings 15; 2 Chronicles 13,14; Philippians 4 – “Peace that Surpasses All Understanding”
S – Philippians 4:7 – “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”
O – God’s peace has an amazing harmonizing capacity-bringing our hearts to a settled and stable place. Because He dwells in our heart, and rules our heart, He keeps our heart in peace. It passes understanding because it is of a different nature from any human peace, it is a peace which He has purchased, and which comes from the Father through the power of the Holy Spirit.
A – This is a great verse to remind us that because Christ indwells us, we have access to an amazing gift: the peace of God! This peace comes to us when we choose right thinking, right praying, and right living. Worry is the tension between the mind and the heart. The peace of God will act as a guard for our heart and mind if we meet the conditions He gives.
P – Lord of Peace, we ask for an anointing on our minds and hearts so that we will have sharp discernment when we choose the road of worry, or any road contrary to Your peace. Teach us to submerge ourselves In the truth of Your love and grace so that we live our lives out of your amazing peace!
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Who are you listening to? Why?
S - 1 Kings 12:8 - But he rejected the advice which the elders had given him, and consulted the young men who had grown up with him..."
O - Rehoboam, Solomon's son sought advice. He rejected the advice that he didn't want to listen to and chose the advice that was more appealing to him. The results were disastrous! There is no shortage of advice from books, magazines, the media and the internet. Just like we need to evaluate an internet source, so we need to evaluate the condition of our heart. I think that the deeper issue is whether we really want to do God's will or not. Are we listening to advice to figure out what is right, or are we trying to justify what is wrong? I think we all might have a tendency to want to listen to advice that will line up with what we want to do.
A - I need to ask myself if I am truly seeking advice, or just trying to find words that justify what I want to do.
P - Lord, you only, know the depths of our hearts and motivations. Help us to truly seek your will. When we don't know what to do, make the right path clear and give us the moral strength to follow it. In Jesus Name, Amen.
O - Rehoboam, Solomon's son sought advice. He rejected the advice that he didn't want to listen to and chose the advice that was more appealing to him. The results were disastrous! There is no shortage of advice from books, magazines, the media and the internet. Just like we need to evaluate an internet source, so we need to evaluate the condition of our heart. I think that the deeper issue is whether we really want to do God's will or not. Are we listening to advice to figure out what is right, or are we trying to justify what is wrong? I think we all might have a tendency to want to listen to advice that will line up with what we want to do.
A - I need to ask myself if I am truly seeking advice, or just trying to find words that justify what I want to do.
P - Lord, you only, know the depths of our hearts and motivations. Help us to truly seek your will. When we don't know what to do, make the right path clear and give us the moral strength to follow it. In Jesus Name, Amen.
Friday, June 11, 2010
BE FAITHFUL TO TEACH & PRAY,by Mary White
S--Phil.1:6 “Being confident off this, that he who has begun a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
O--Paul, in his letter to the Philippians, is thanking God for them and for their partnership in spreading the gospel. He was also expressing joy in seeing that all his effort in teaching them and prayers for them was bearing good fruit and bringing glory to God.
A--As a teacher of new converts, I understand how Paul feels. When you see one of “your babes in Christ” grow strong in the Lord, it is exciting and encouraging. When you see them fail and walk away it is heartbreaking. The Philippians’ lives encouraged Paul to continue preaching, and was a testimony to his hard work and prayers.
P--Thank you God for your protection and your “keeping powers” Also, thank you for those who invested so much time, sacrifice, and prayer to help me become strong in You. And help me Lord to be better at praying and helping others in their walk.
O--Paul, in his letter to the Philippians, is thanking God for them and for their partnership in spreading the gospel. He was also expressing joy in seeing that all his effort in teaching them and prayers for them was bearing good fruit and bringing glory to God.
A--As a teacher of new converts, I understand how Paul feels. When you see one of “your babes in Christ” grow strong in the Lord, it is exciting and encouraging. When you see them fail and walk away it is heartbreaking. The Philippians’ lives encouraged Paul to continue preaching, and was a testimony to his hard work and prayers.
P--Thank you God for your protection and your “keeping powers” Also, thank you for those who invested so much time, sacrifice, and prayer to help me become strong in You. And help me Lord to be better at praying and helping others in their walk.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Thursday June 10, 2010 Song of Solomon 1-4 Eph: 6 S- Eph: 6:2 "Honor your father and mother" which is the first commandment of promise--
S- Eph: 6:2 "Honor your father and mother" which is the first commandment of promise--
O- This is the first commandment with a promise. To honor your mother and father brings great benefits to our lives and to our soul. One is for peace and the other for happiness
and for obeying our Father in Heaven. The scripture does not say Honor them because they love you, or honor them because they have they do their best for you, because what if they didn't or they don't.......God says to "Honor your mother & your father." The promise is for you, and for the generations the proceed you.
A- The word honor means respect to hold with high regard a priviledge. That can be very hard to understand if you were a kid of an abusive dysfunctional family, but it's true.
When you understand God's concept of forgiveness for childhood hurts, and to HONOR your parents, the promise or reward is the freedom that you get, not only for yourself but for the generations behind you. Imagine if you were abused or neglected as a child, and spoke badly about your parents to your kids. You pass on judgement, and unforgiveness, and are not modeling the Christ (forgiver) in you. The best healing I received came from honoring my parents in their final days. Not only were they set free, but I who is the one left behind to walk out my christianity, is also free, and to this day I am free.....that's the promise of "honoring" your mother and father.
P-Father each day let us find good in the toughest of circumstances with our parents. Teach us how to Honor and Respect. For those of us whose parents are deceased, it is not too late to honor them and show them respect, even those who we may think did not deserve honoring. All parents deserve to be honored because they were given the responsbility of parenting when you blessed them with children, in all situations. You knew ever man & woman that would come together and conceive a child, and your gave that child life as a miracle.....and that alone deserves HONOR. Thank you Lord for all those who are "chosen" as parents.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
REMAIN CALM
by Vivian Bills
Wednesday - June 9, 2010 - Ecclesiastes 10-12; Psalm 94; Ephesians 5
S - Ecclesiastes 10:4 If a ruler's anger rises against you, do not leave your post; calmness can lay great offenses to rest.
O - Anger that is met with calmness can run out of fuel for its fire.
A - My son was given new responsibilities yesterday at work. He told me that an employee had yelled at him for doing the wrong thing once. His reaction was to calmly agree that he was wrong and that what she was saying was right. This same employee requested that my son be given the new position at work. When my son inquired as to why, she said it was because she liked the way he handled correction.
P - Lord, help me to remain calm when others are angry and to not get offended at criticism. My reactions today affect the outcome of my tomorrow.
Wednesday - June 9, 2010 - Ecclesiastes 10-12; Psalm 94; Ephesians 5
S - Ecclesiastes 10:4 If a ruler's anger rises against you, do not leave your post; calmness can lay great offenses to rest.
O - Anger that is met with calmness can run out of fuel for its fire.
A - My son was given new responsibilities yesterday at work. He told me that an employee had yelled at him for doing the wrong thing once. His reaction was to calmly agree that he was wrong and that what she was saying was right. This same employee requested that my son be given the new position at work. When my son inquired as to why, she said it was because she liked the way he handled correction.
P - Lord, help me to remain calm when others are angry and to not get offended at criticism. My reactions today affect the outcome of my tomorrow.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
LIVING IN PEACE
by Cathy Weymouth
Tuesday June 8, 2010 - Ecc. 7-9; Eph 4 - LIVING IN PEACE
S - Ecc 7:9, Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit, for anger resides in the lap of fools. Eph 4:2,3, Be completely humble and gentle; be patient bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.
O- Both Solomon and Paul have words of wisdom for us concerning peace in relationships. But this is often much easier said than done! How is it possible to not be quickly provoked and to bear with one another in love? I am learning that one secret is accepting people, rather than wishing that they were different.
A - My counselor shared some real wisdom with me (he has much to say too!). Often it is in our interpretation of an events that we can get thrown into negative emotions. He explained this series of events: A triggering event --> Interpretation --> Emotions --> Action Urge--> Action (1). An event can lead to negative emotions which leads to negative action - all based on our interpretation. There are two points of intervention: We can circumvent carrying out destructive actions by first asking if there is another way to interpret the event. Also, we can choose to go forth with our negative action urges or we can choose a positive action instead.
P - Father, this is hard stuff. It is easy to become angry when things are not going well. Help me/us to stop and consider - are we expecting someone to be different than they are? Is there another way that we can interpret this event and prevent the negative emotions in the first place? Help! Relationships are a challenge, for sure. But we want to live in peace. And with You, all things are possible.
1. From Skills Training Manual for Treating Borderline Personality Disorder by Marsha Linehan
Tuesday June 8, 2010 - Ecc. 7-9; Eph 4 - LIVING IN PEACE
S - Ecc 7:9, Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit, for anger resides in the lap of fools. Eph 4:2,3, Be completely humble and gentle; be patient bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.
O- Both Solomon and Paul have words of wisdom for us concerning peace in relationships. But this is often much easier said than done! How is it possible to not be quickly provoked and to bear with one another in love? I am learning that one secret is accepting people, rather than wishing that they were different.
A - My counselor shared some real wisdom with me (he has much to say too!). Often it is in our interpretation of an events that we can get thrown into negative emotions. He explained this series of events: A triggering event --> Interpretation --> Emotions --> Action Urge--> Action (1). An event can lead to negative emotions which leads to negative action - all based on our interpretation. There are two points of intervention: We can circumvent carrying out destructive actions by first asking if there is another way to interpret the event. Also, we can choose to go forth with our negative action urges or we can choose a positive action instead.
P - Father, this is hard stuff. It is easy to become angry when things are not going well. Help me/us to stop and consider - are we expecting someone to be different than they are? Is there another way that we can interpret this event and prevent the negative emotions in the first place? Help! Relationships are a challenge, for sure. But we want to live in peace. And with You, all things are possible.
1. From Skills Training Manual for Treating Borderline Personality Disorder by Marsha Linehan
Monday, June 7, 2010
ROOTED AND GROUNDED
by Diana Kriesel
Monday, 6/7/10 – Ecclesiastes 4-6; Psalm 18; Ephesians 3 – “Rooted and Grounded”
S – Ephesians 3:17- “I pray that you, being rooted and grounded in love…”
O – This is a double metaphor; one from agriculture, the other from architecture. Just as trees are rooted in soil to grow, we are to put our roots down deep into the infinite love of God, and from this love we derive all our nourishment, which is essential to our full growth. The other picture is from architecture; as a building our foundation is to be laid in the love of God. This is the foundation of all our hopes and expectations; a foundation that cannot be shaken. It is IN the soil of God’s love that we grow. It is ON the foundation of His love that everything rests.
A – I love the book of Ephesians. It is my favorite book in all the bible. I chose this part of Paul’s prayer because God’s love truly is both the source of our growth and the foundation on which our growth stands. No matter what we go through, we can stand on God’s love and we can send our roots deeper to sustain us. That love will not only see us through any storm, it will strengthen us and bring us growth.
P – Lord, we want to our lives to be rooted and grounded in Your love. Teach us to choose to put our roots down deeper to draw from Your Life and Your Love so that we not only grow, but not matter what we go through, we become closer to You.
Monday, 6/7/10 – Ecclesiastes 4-6; Psalm 18; Ephesians 3 – “Rooted and Grounded”
S – Ephesians 3:17- “I pray that you, being rooted and grounded in love…”
O – This is a double metaphor; one from agriculture, the other from architecture. Just as trees are rooted in soil to grow, we are to put our roots down deep into the infinite love of God, and from this love we derive all our nourishment, which is essential to our full growth. The other picture is from architecture; as a building our foundation is to be laid in the love of God. This is the foundation of all our hopes and expectations; a foundation that cannot be shaken. It is IN the soil of God’s love that we grow. It is ON the foundation of His love that everything rests.
A – I love the book of Ephesians. It is my favorite book in all the bible. I chose this part of Paul’s prayer because God’s love truly is both the source of our growth and the foundation on which our growth stands. No matter what we go through, we can stand on God’s love and we can send our roots deeper to sustain us. That love will not only see us through any storm, it will strengthen us and bring us growth.
P – Lord, we want to our lives to be rooted and grounded in Your love. Teach us to choose to put our roots down deeper to draw from Your Life and Your Love so that we not only grow, but not matter what we go through, we become closer to You.
Friday, June 4, 2010
THE JOY OF FORGIVENESS by Mary White
S-- Prov.28:13 “He who conceals his sins doe not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy.”
O-- This proverb teaches the wisdom of confession.
A-- To conceal or to bury our sins does not bring us peace and this scripture says we will not prosper. But 1John 1:9 says “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us or sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” Proverbs says we will find mercy. It is our choice we can choose to be full of pride and hide our sins in order to save face, or confession and repentance and experience the joy of forgiveness and mercy…which brings freedom. Who/what do I listen to…my pride or the Spirit within me? As for me I choose to be free and walk in joy through confession.
P--Lord help me to make the right decisions quickly. Thank you for your grace and mercy.
O-- This proverb teaches the wisdom of confession.
A-- To conceal or to bury our sins does not bring us peace and this scripture says we will not prosper. But 1John 1:9 says “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us or sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” Proverbs says we will find mercy. It is our choice we can choose to be full of pride and hide our sins in order to save face, or confession and repentance and experience the joy of forgiveness and mercy…which brings freedom. Who/what do I listen to…my pride or the Spirit within me? As for me I choose to be free and walk in joy through confession.
P--Lord help me to make the right decisions quickly. Thank you for your grace and mercy.
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Thursday June 3, 2010 Prov 25-27 Romans 15
S-Prov. 27:19 (NIV) As water reflects a face, so a man's heart reflects the man.
(MSG) Your face Mirrors your Heart
"Reflections of the Heart"
O-Wise sayings of Solomon in Proverbs 27:19 speak about our physical reflection. Our inward thought effect our outward beauty. According to this proverb, where are heart is will reflect outwardly on our face. A joyous heart beautifully reflects Joy, and a bitter heart leaks with ugliness.
A- Your face says alot about who you are. My face generally says everything I am feeling or want to say.....not a good thing, at times. The word says to have the Joy of the Lord in your heart. I believe that is for this reason, so that you will have the Joy of the Lord on your face, and people will be drawn to such Joy, and it will be a testimony to God, and the spirit that dwells in side of you. I am always amazed at how we can not totally see ourselves, but rather just a reflection, picture or image. God wants our hearts full of Joy, Peace, Compassion, Mercy & Grace, so those who are lost will find Him.
P-Lord fill our hearts with Joy today, and allow that Joy to reflect on our faces. Search our hearts God and take anything out that is not a pure reflection of you. Put a song in our hearts today, and allow that song to reflect in our face. Let our love for you, our Joy and our peace to become contagious to someone who does not know that joy that brings Peace......count it all joy, and help us to not dwell on bitterness or disappointments. Make today a happy face day :) Amen
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
LAYING THE FOUNDATION
by Vivian Bills
Wednesday - June 2, 2010 - Proverbs 22-24; Romans 14
S - Proverbs 22:6 Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.
O - Laying a right foundation for our children will ensure that they will have that foundation to stick to for the rest of their lives.
A - This scripture was quoted to me many times when i was despairing over my teenage son. It was said to encourage me because I HAD laid that foundation and the Word of God is true. But I still couldn't help but wonder if I had mortared those foundational stones thoroughly. Perhaps I had left out a crucial piece and the whole house would crumble. But, God has assured me that my son's foundation is secure and he has merely wandered off to check out other houses. And he keeps looking over his shoulder to make sure his house is still there to return to. He even comes back every now and then to marvel at the sturdiness of his foundation compared to others he has seen.
P - Lord, help me to know Your Word is true when I doubt myself. It is not my strength that will get me through. It is faith in You and Your Word. Thank You, Jesus.
O - Laying a right foundation for our children will ensure that they will have that foundation to stick to for the rest of their lives.
A - This scripture was quoted to me many times when i was despairing over my teenage son. It was said to encourage me because I HAD laid that foundation and the Word of God is true. But I still couldn't help but wonder if I had mortared those foundational stones thoroughly. Perhaps I had left out a crucial piece and the whole house would crumble. But, God has assured me that my son's foundation is secure and he has merely wandered off to check out other houses. And he keeps looking over his shoulder to make sure his house is still there to return to. He even comes back every now and then to marvel at the sturdiness of his foundation compared to others he has seen.
P - Lord, help me to know Your Word is true when I doubt myself. It is not my strength that will get me through. It is faith in You and Your Word. Thank You, Jesus.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
STRATEGIES FOR NEGATIVE EMOTIONS
by Cathy Weymouth
Tuesday 6/1/2010 Pr 19-21; Roms 13 STRATEGIES FOR NEGATIVE EMOTIONS
S- Pr 21:9; 19:11,20 Better to live on a corner of the roof than share a house with a quarrelsome wife. A man's wisdom gives him patience; it is to his glory to overlook an offense. Listen to advice and accept instruction, and in the end you will be wise.
Tuesday 6/1/2010 Pr 19-21; Roms 13 STRATEGIES FOR NEGATIVE EMOTIONS
S- Pr 21:9; 19:11,20 Better to live on a corner of the roof than share a house with a quarrelsome wife. A man's wisdom gives him patience; it is to his glory to overlook an offense. Listen to advice and accept instruction, and in the end you will be wise.
O – Solomon was given much wisdom and shared secrets of advice from his stores of knowledge. He commented three times about quarrelsome wives in today's reading. Ouch!
A- I believe that negative emotions are a sign that something needs to be attended to. They are like a red flag waving overhead. If you find yourself being a quarrelsome wife (I am guilty), then take a good look at your situation. Do you need to become better at overlooking offenses (1)? Do you need to seek out some wisdom from friends who are not qarrelsome in their marriage (2) or from counselors who have wisdom to help you change things (3)? From my experience, embracing these 3 strategies has helped lessen the negative emotions and reduce the quarreling.
P – Father, thank you for helping me. Keep it up! I have a ways to go yet. And for others who need help, would you come today and give a plan for reducing the negative emotions in families? Holy Spirit, what is YOUR strategy for this family?
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