Thursday June 30, 2011
Amos 7-9, Ps. 86,87; Titus 1
"Leaders"
S-Titus 1:5 (God's Word bible) I left you in Crete to do what still needed to be done-appointing spiritual leaders in every city as I directed you.
O- Paul is saying to Titus that he is not taking him with him, as he is calling him to raise up spiritual leaders in every city. Choose someone with the character of a good spiritual leader, so that they can be examples and not easily strayed by someone of a false witness and with sinful intentions of destruction.
A- This is the same scripture that we use to follow choosing our deacons in our church. These spiritual leaders are not only called to be above reproach but also to serve our pastor and to support his vision. Our Pastor is the one that is called to be the head of the church, the deacons and elders are appointed for his support and to be servants. That is why the character needs to be of the purest of hearts and walking in a strong christian life. Some people have thought this position is the place to keep the pastor accountable. This can bring dissension among the board and body, because it's not in support and act of service to the pastor. We are called to serve & submit to the pastors and the body with a pure heart & soul. Submitting is not when you agree with everything, it's when you do not agree and lay down your own ideas and agenda, but you submit your will to serve with the purest of hearts.
P- Father, I thank you for our pastors, and every board member and elder, and all the leaders in our church. You've called each of us to model and to serve them and our church body, for you. Give us the strength to walk with the purest of hearts and to serve with a an attitude of excellence......excellence does not mean perfect, it means you did your very best and with the best of attitudes. Amen.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
FILTERS
June 29, 2011 - Amos 4-6; Psalm 86,87; Titus 1
S - Titus 1:15 To the pure, all things are pure, but to those who are corrupted and do not believe, nothing is pure. In fact, both their minds and consciences are corrupted.
O - Paul is telling Titus that people see things through their own personal filters.
A - People who don't think of harming others cannot fathom being harmed. They think if they wouldn't do it, then most everybody thinks like them. Have you ever been called a liar by a liar? It's the strangest feeling to me. I can tell that they can't even imagine that I'm telling the truth because there is no way they would in the same situation. Is your filter pure or cloudy and dirty?
P - Lord, help me to see the good in everybody. Give me a pure heart, Lord, so that I may see the purity in all.
S - Titus 1:15 To the pure, all things are pure, but to those who are corrupted and do not believe, nothing is pure. In fact, both their minds and consciences are corrupted.
O - Paul is telling Titus that people see things through their own personal filters.
A - People who don't think of harming others cannot fathom being harmed. They think if they wouldn't do it, then most everybody thinks like them. Have you ever been called a liar by a liar? It's the strangest feeling to me. I can tell that they can't even imagine that I'm telling the truth because there is no way they would in the same situation. Is your filter pure or cloudy and dirty?
P - Lord, help me to see the good in everybody. Give me a pure heart, Lord, so that I may see the purity in all.
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Carry Out Your Full Commission
by Cathy Weymouth
Tuesday 6/28/11 Amos 1-3; Psalm 104; 2 Timothy 4 - Carry Out Your Full Commission
S - 2 Timothy 4:2 HCSB, 4:5 JCB Proclaim the message; persist in it whether convenient or not; rebuke, correct, and encourage with great patience and teaching. Go on steadily preaching the Gospel and carry out the full commission that God gave you.
O - Paul is encouraging Timothy to continue on in what he was commissioned to do. In chapter 1, he challenges Timothy to stir up the gift that was given to him by God. Timothy's gift was teaching and preaching the Gospel. Paul was his mentor and Timothy was raised up to do as he had done.
A - I think we have to be careful to not compare ourselves with others, their callings and giftings. God has invited each of us to join Him in something - but it may not be the same thing that someone else is doing! This word to Timothy to continue preaching the Gospel was specific to his calling. Let's take this encouragement and make it specific to whatever God has called us to do. We are not all called to preach but God is calling us to something according to our personalities, experiences, training and gifts. Let's be faithful to go on steadily doing that persisting in it whether it is convenient or not!
P - Lord, thank you for inviting us to join you in touching this world. Please encourage anyone who may be tempted to give up or put in a minimal effort. Stir us up to persist in our calling and work it to completion. Amen.
Tuesday 6/28/11 Amos 1-3; Psalm 104; 2 Timothy 4 - Carry Out Your Full Commission
S - 2 Timothy 4:2 HCSB, 4:5 JCB Proclaim the message; persist in it whether convenient or not; rebuke, correct, and encourage with great patience and teaching. Go on steadily preaching the Gospel and carry out the full commission that God gave you.
O - Paul is encouraging Timothy to continue on in what he was commissioned to do. In chapter 1, he challenges Timothy to stir up the gift that was given to him by God. Timothy's gift was teaching and preaching the Gospel. Paul was his mentor and Timothy was raised up to do as he had done.
A - I think we have to be careful to not compare ourselves with others, their callings and giftings. God has invited each of us to join Him in something - but it may not be the same thing that someone else is doing! This word to Timothy to continue preaching the Gospel was specific to his calling. Let's take this encouragement and make it specific to whatever God has called us to do. We are not all called to preach but God is calling us to something according to our personalities, experiences, training and gifts. Let's be faithful to go on steadily doing that persisting in it whether it is convenient or not!
P - Lord, thank you for inviting us to join you in touching this world. Please encourage anyone who may be tempted to give up or put in a minimal effort. Stir us up to persist in our calling and work it to completion. Amen.
Monday, June 27, 2011
Wholehearted Obedience
by Diana Kriesel
Monday, 6/27/11 –2 Kings 13,14; 2 Chronicles 25; 2 Timothy 3 – “Wholehearted Obedience”
S= Scripture; O= Obedience; A= Application; P= Prayer
S– 2 Kings 13:18-19 – “Then he said, "Take the arrows," and the king took them. Elisha told him, "Strike the ground." He struck it three times and stopped. The man of God was angry with him and said, "You should have struck the ground five or six times; then you would have defeated Aram and completely destroyed it. But now you will defeat it only three times."
O – Joash was to open an east window which faced toward the enemy, so he could shoot. At the prophet’s direction, the king shot an arrow out the window toward the enemy. By shooting the arrow the king was appropriating his victory over the enemy. Then the prophet instructed the king to take the arrows that remained and strike the ground with them. The king struck the ground three times and stopped. This angered Elisha because it demonstrated failure to trust God to give him as many victories as there were arrows. The unfaithfulness of man limits the hand of God on our behalf.
A – It seems the king didn’t believe that firing arrows in private could be associated with total victory later in public. I think we are like that with prayer sometimes. We struggle to believe that our prayers launched in private can achieve much in the public arena. Sometimes we are like Joash and give up after a few attempts. God is looking for us to use our quiverful of arrows in obedience. It is our demonstration of faith that God is attracted to. Faith gives us resolve to keep fighting, especially in prayer.
P – Lord, cause us to have hearts so full of passion that when You instruct us, we do not hold back, but rather we go for it, wholeheartedly. Help us not to limit our future victory by limiting our present actions. Help us to say YES no matter what we see, feel or think…Let our yes be yes. Period.
Monday, 6/27/11 –2 Kings 13,14; 2 Chronicles 25; 2 Timothy 3 – “Wholehearted Obedience”
S= Scripture; O= Obedience; A= Application; P= Prayer
S– 2 Kings 13:18-19 – “Then he said, "Take the arrows," and the king took them. Elisha told him, "Strike the ground." He struck it three times and stopped. The man of God was angry with him and said, "You should have struck the ground five or six times; then you would have defeated Aram and completely destroyed it. But now you will defeat it only three times."
O – Joash was to open an east window which faced toward the enemy, so he could shoot. At the prophet’s direction, the king shot an arrow out the window toward the enemy. By shooting the arrow the king was appropriating his victory over the enemy. Then the prophet instructed the king to take the arrows that remained and strike the ground with them. The king struck the ground three times and stopped. This angered Elisha because it demonstrated failure to trust God to give him as many victories as there were arrows. The unfaithfulness of man limits the hand of God on our behalf.
A – It seems the king didn’t believe that firing arrows in private could be associated with total victory later in public. I think we are like that with prayer sometimes. We struggle to believe that our prayers launched in private can achieve much in the public arena. Sometimes we are like Joash and give up after a few attempts. God is looking for us to use our quiverful of arrows in obedience. It is our demonstration of faith that God is attracted to. Faith gives us resolve to keep fighting, especially in prayer.
P – Lord, cause us to have hearts so full of passion that when You instruct us, we do not hold back, but rather we go for it, wholeheartedly. Help us not to limit our future victory by limiting our present actions. Help us to say YES no matter what we see, feel or think…Let our yes be yes. Period.
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Open Up!
Sunday 6/26/11. Jonah 1-4; 2 Timothy 2
S – Scripture O – Observation A – Application P – Prayer
S: Jonah 1:16 (MSG) – The sailors were impressed no longer terrified by the sea but in awe of God. They worshipped God, offered a sacrifice and made vows.
O: Just a few lines earlier the story told us that these same sailors were pleading to their “gods” that they would not perish in the storm. After Jonah is thrown overboard God quiets the sea and as a result these same sailors worship the one true God.
A: Once you experience the miracle power of God you are changed. The sailors were frightened and begging their “gods” to save them but nothing happened. Jonah tells them to throw him overboard because he has disobeyed God and when they do God quiets the storm around them. Their gods couldn’t save them but Jonah’s could and did. The sailors were in awe of God’s power. If I am willing to open up my life to non-believers they too can see the power of God at work through me. It doesn’t require me to be perfect – just willing to share my life with those I work with, those I interact with every day. What if I invited one of my non-believer friends to church and they saw someone get healed? Or someone publicly confess their sin and cry out for help from God? Do you think that person could possibly leave church the same way they came in? We don’t have to have the perfect words or the best testimony ever heard…….we just have to be willing to let God work through us. God can use us to plant seeds today that will bear fruit later and all we need to do is share our lives with those around us.
P: Father God I offer myself to you to build with me and do with me as you will. Relieve me of the bondage of self that I may better do your will. Take away my difficulties that I may bear witness to those I would help of your power, your love and your way of life. Amen.
S – Scripture O – Observation A – Application P – Prayer
S: Jonah 1:16 (MSG) – The sailors were impressed no longer terrified by the sea but in awe of God. They worshipped God, offered a sacrifice and made vows.
O: Just a few lines earlier the story told us that these same sailors were pleading to their “gods” that they would not perish in the storm. After Jonah is thrown overboard God quiets the sea and as a result these same sailors worship the one true God.
A: Once you experience the miracle power of God you are changed. The sailors were frightened and begging their “gods” to save them but nothing happened. Jonah tells them to throw him overboard because he has disobeyed God and when they do God quiets the storm around them. Their gods couldn’t save them but Jonah’s could and did. The sailors were in awe of God’s power. If I am willing to open up my life to non-believers they too can see the power of God at work through me. It doesn’t require me to be perfect – just willing to share my life with those I work with, those I interact with every day. What if I invited one of my non-believer friends to church and they saw someone get healed? Or someone publicly confess their sin and cry out for help from God? Do you think that person could possibly leave church the same way they came in? We don’t have to have the perfect words or the best testimony ever heard…….we just have to be willing to let God work through us. God can use us to plant seeds today that will bear fruit later and all we need to do is share our lives with those around us.
P: Father God I offer myself to you to build with me and do with me as you will. Relieve me of the bondage of self that I may better do your will. Take away my difficulties that I may bear witness to those I would help of your power, your love and your way of life. Amen.
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Care For and Use Your Treasure!
by Cathy Weymouth
Saturday 6/25/11 Joel 1-3; 2 Timothy 1 - Care For and Use Your Treasure!
S - 2 Timothy 1:14 JBP, Take the greatest care of the treasures which were entrusted to you by the Holy Spirit who lives within us.
O - Paul is encouraging his son in the Lord, Timothy, to stir up the gifts given to him and to faithfully guard the treasures. The word treasure here is paratheke, "a deposit, a trust or thing consigned to one's faithful keeping."(1).
A - What gifts, treasures has God given you that are unique to you? Do you realize that the package that makes you up (your personality, experiences, training, and God given gifts/talents) creates a unique ownership of the niche God has placed you in? You are an expert in your field, your niche - like no one else can be! So guard this package, be thankful for it, use it wisely to advance the Kingdom.
P - Lord, we thank you for all of it - the good, the bad, the enjoyable, the painful. We thank you for the special impart of gifts, talents and treasures - for out of this, we touch the world like no one else can. May we faithfully guard and use what You have given us! Provide open doors and opportunities for us to touch the world - through simply being us!
1. From http://www.biblestudytools.com/lexicons/greek/
Saturday 6/25/11 Joel 1-3; 2 Timothy 1 - Care For and Use Your Treasure!
S - 2 Timothy 1:14 JBP, Take the greatest care of the treasures which were entrusted to you by the Holy Spirit who lives within us.
O - Paul is encouraging his son in the Lord, Timothy, to stir up the gifts given to him and to faithfully guard the treasures. The word treasure here is paratheke, "a deposit, a trust or thing consigned to one's faithful keeping."(1).
A - What gifts, treasures has God given you that are unique to you? Do you realize that the package that makes you up (your personality, experiences, training, and God given gifts/talents) creates a unique ownership of the niche God has placed you in? You are an expert in your field, your niche - like no one else can be! So guard this package, be thankful for it, use it wisely to advance the Kingdom.
P - Lord, we thank you for all of it - the good, the bad, the enjoyable, the painful. We thank you for the special impart of gifts, talents and treasures - for out of this, we touch the world like no one else can. May we faithfully guard and use what You have given us! Provide open doors and opportunities for us to touch the world - through simply being us!
1. From http://www.biblestudytools.com/lexicons/greek/
Friday, June 24, 2011
I AM RICH!
S=Scripture, O=Observation, A=Application and P=Prayer
S-1 Timothy 6:10 “For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil.”
O-Paul is warning and reminding people that money should be used to do good…but when acquiring money becomes an obsession it can lead to evil of all kinds. He encourages Timothy to pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness.
A-When the pursuit of money becomes first and foremost in our lives we can find ourselves becoming greedy and selfish. Our focus remains on ourselves and not on godly things like taking care of the widows, orphans and the poor. I Tim .6:7 says “We brought nothing into the world and we can take nothing out of it.” So during our short stay on earth we should be generously giving by taking care of those who are less fortunate than ourselves. We need to realize we cannot out give God…so when we give it comes back to us. I AM SO RICH! Though our household income is slight…I AM RICH! I have a loving family. We are healthy, my children are serving God, and I have beautiful and loving grandkids. I AM A CHILD OF THE KING…I AM RICH!
P-Thank you Lord for providing all my needs. Thank you for granting me a rich and full life.
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Double Portion
Thursday June 23, 2011
2 Kings 10; 2 Chr. 22, 23; 1 Tim. 5
S=Scripture O=Observation A=Application P-Prayer
"Double Portion"
S-1Tim 5:17 (The Message) Give a bonus to leaders who do a good job, especially the ones who work hard at preaching and teaching.
O- Paul is directing Timothy how to treat people in the church. We are to take care of our widows, and do not speak harshly to the older men. In this scripture, he tells us to recognize and show your appreciation to those who are elders, ministers and teachers. This pleases God.
A- The NIV bible says they deserve double honor, especially those who are preaching and teaching. A double portion blessing. Some people think that the work that our ministers & teachers do should all be considered as a ministry. They have a huge responsibility to teach the word, and to counsel those that need counseling. Their job is to be the heart, hands and feet for the Lord. They RE-present Christ, and they well deserve even more than a double portion blessing.
P-Father, thank you for those who you have put in charge over us, to teach us and to guide us into the kingdom. I pray a double blessing of protection, good health and financial blessings over all of them. Strengthen them, when they are weary and tired, and shower them with your amazing love and grace. We thank you for each of them.
2 Kings 10; 2 Chr. 22, 23; 1 Tim. 5
S=Scripture O=Observation A=Application P-Prayer
"Double Portion"
S-1Tim 5:17 (The Message) Give a bonus to leaders who do a good job, especially the ones who work hard at preaching and teaching.
O- Paul is directing Timothy how to treat people in the church. We are to take care of our widows, and do not speak harshly to the older men. In this scripture, he tells us to recognize and show your appreciation to those who are elders, ministers and teachers. This pleases God.
A- The NIV bible says they deserve double honor, especially those who are preaching and teaching. A double portion blessing. Some people think that the work that our ministers & teachers do should all be considered as a ministry. They have a huge responsibility to teach the word, and to counsel those that need counseling. Their job is to be the heart, hands and feet for the Lord. They RE-present Christ, and they well deserve even more than a double portion blessing.
P-Father, thank you for those who you have put in charge over us, to teach us and to guide us into the kingdom. I pray a double blessing of protection, good health and financial blessings over all of them. Strengthen them, when they are weary and tired, and shower them with your amazing love and grace. We thank you for each of them.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
AUTHENTICITY
Wednesday, June 22, 2011 - 2 Kings 8,9; 2 Chronicles 21; 1 Timothy 4
S - 1 Timothy 4:16 Watch you life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.
O - Paul is telling Timothy to live right.
A - People are watching. Do they know you're Christian? Do they know you go to church? Then they're watching even closer. Show them this is for real, that your faith is authentic. Hypocrisy is so easy to pinpoint. And some of us have been more than willing to parade around in our hypocrite T-shirts for all the world to see. Throw it away! Put on your Christianity and live it to the fullest. "You'll save both yourself and your hearers."
P - Lord, help me to be an authentic Christian, in Jesus' name.
S - 1 Timothy 4:16 Watch you life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.
O - Paul is telling Timothy to live right.
A - People are watching. Do they know you're Christian? Do they know you go to church? Then they're watching even closer. Show them this is for real, that your faith is authentic. Hypocrisy is so easy to pinpoint. And some of us have been more than willing to parade around in our hypocrite T-shirts for all the world to see. Throw it away! Put on your Christianity and live it to the fullest. "You'll save both yourself and your hearers."
P - Lord, help me to be an authentic Christian, in Jesus' name.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
He's Trying to Take My Inheritance!
by Cathy Weymouth
Tuesday 6/21/11 2 Kings 6,7; 2 Chronicles 20; 1 Timothy 3 - He's Trying to Take My Inheritance!
S - 2 Chr 20:10-12 HCSB, "Now here are the Ammonites, Moabites, and the inhabitants of Mount Seir. You did not let Israel invade them when Israel came out of the land of Egypt, but Israel turned away from them and did not destroy them. Look how they repay us by coming to drive us out of Your possession that You gave us as an inheritance. Our God, will You not judge them? For we are powerless before this vast number that comes to fight against us. We do not know what to do, but we look to You."
O - Here is an enemy that God did not let the Israelites touch previously, now coming to take away their possession, their inheritance - their land. They looked to God for direction. His answer was that this battle was His to fight, not theirs. He confused the enemies, who then destroyed each other. Israel then came in and picked up the plunder, not lifting a sword!
A - Each battle with our "enemies" is unique. When we seek God for direction, He gives us specific strategy and if we follow this, we come out on top! However, there is a similarity in the battles - the enemy is always trying to take away our possession, our inheritance. Let us be like Jehosophat who sought God because he refused to let these enemies come in and take their land that God had given them.
P - Lord, show us our inheritance which you have already given us and how the enemy is trying to rob, kill, and destroy it. Help us to see his strategy and to know that we are the Winners of this War! Jesus has already fought the battle and won. We are to come in and pick up the plunder. May we be good stewards of our inheritance. Amen.
Tuesday 6/21/11 2 Kings 6,7; 2 Chronicles 20; 1 Timothy 3 - He's Trying to Take My Inheritance!
S - 2 Chr 20:10-12 HCSB, "Now here are the Ammonites, Moabites, and the inhabitants of Mount Seir. You did not let Israel invade them when Israel came out of the land of Egypt, but Israel turned away from them and did not destroy them. Look how they repay us by coming to drive us out of Your possession that You gave us as an inheritance. Our God, will You not judge them? For we are powerless before this vast number that comes to fight against us. We do not know what to do, but we look to You."
O - Here is an enemy that God did not let the Israelites touch previously, now coming to take away their possession, their inheritance - their land. They looked to God for direction. His answer was that this battle was His to fight, not theirs. He confused the enemies, who then destroyed each other. Israel then came in and picked up the plunder, not lifting a sword!
A - Each battle with our "enemies" is unique. When we seek God for direction, He gives us specific strategy and if we follow this, we come out on top! However, there is a similarity in the battles - the enemy is always trying to take away our possession, our inheritance. Let us be like Jehosophat who sought God because he refused to let these enemies come in and take their land that God had given them.
P - Lord, show us our inheritance which you have already given us and how the enemy is trying to rob, kill, and destroy it. Help us to see his strategy and to know that we are the Winners of this War! Jesus has already fought the battle and won. We are to come in and pick up the plunder. May we be good stewards of our inheritance. Amen.
Monday, June 20, 2011
Obedience Beyond Logic
by Diana Kriesel
Monday, 6/20/11 –2 Kings 4,5; Psalm 83; 1 Timothy 2 – “Obedience Beyond Logic”
S– 2 Kings 4:2 - “So Elisha said to her, "What shall I do for you? Tell me, what do you have in the house?" And she said, "Your maidservant has nothing in the house but a jar of oil."
O – This woman cries out to the prophet Elisha, telling him that her husband is dead and the creditor is coming to take her boys as his slaves. Elisha's was eager to help the widow, asking “what do you have in the house?” All she had was a jar of oil. But she followed his instructions, refusing to be limited by her own understanding or logic. Instead of trying to figure it out, or settle for frustration, she did what he said and collected as many jars as possible and poured her oil into all the jars to sell them to pay off her debt. Had she trusted logic, she would have remained it her impoverished condition. Instead, she trusted the word from the prophet and indeed, it was the word from the Lord.
A – How often when we find ourselves in crisis or devastating circumstances we try to figure it out with our logic or understanding. When we trust the Lord, we access His limitless resources and creativity into our lives. We need to begin with trust, and take each step that He leads. The woman stepped out with her little, and God turned it into His much. God sees our need and when we surrender our need to Him and obey His Word, He sets our miracle in motion.
P – Lord, help us to surrender our needs to You. Teach us to trust Your ways even when they defy our logic and understanding. Teach us the joy of trust without limits so that we may access your love without limits!..
Monday, 6/20/11 –2 Kings 4,5; Psalm 83; 1 Timothy 2 – “Obedience Beyond Logic”
S– 2 Kings 4:2 - “So Elisha said to her, "What shall I do for you? Tell me, what do you have in the house?" And she said, "Your maidservant has nothing in the house but a jar of oil."
O – This woman cries out to the prophet Elisha, telling him that her husband is dead and the creditor is coming to take her boys as his slaves. Elisha's was eager to help the widow, asking “what do you have in the house?” All she had was a jar of oil. But she followed his instructions, refusing to be limited by her own understanding or logic. Instead of trying to figure it out, or settle for frustration, she did what he said and collected as many jars as possible and poured her oil into all the jars to sell them to pay off her debt. Had she trusted logic, she would have remained it her impoverished condition. Instead, she trusted the word from the prophet and indeed, it was the word from the Lord.
A – How often when we find ourselves in crisis or devastating circumstances we try to figure it out with our logic or understanding. When we trust the Lord, we access His limitless resources and creativity into our lives. We need to begin with trust, and take each step that He leads. The woman stepped out with her little, and God turned it into His much. God sees our need and when we surrender our need to Him and obey His Word, He sets our miracle in motion.
P – Lord, help us to surrender our needs to You. Teach us to trust Your ways even when they defy our logic and understanding. Teach us the joy of trust without limits so that we may access your love without limits!..
Friday, June 17, 2011
MY GOD IS SO BIG
S=Scripture - O=Observation - A=Application - P= Prayer
S-I Kings 20;28b The prophet relayed this message from God “Because the Arameans think the Lord is a god of the hills and not a god of the valleys, I will deliver the vast army into your hands and you will know that I am the Lord.”
O-The Arameans had just lost a great battle, which was fought in the hills, thinking that the Israelites god was only a god of the hills, they decided to fight the next battle in the valley, expecting to win. They were wrong…and were defeated.
A- Do we limit our God? Do we say “oh yes God healed him…but my illness is too big/small for Him to bother with.” Do we say “I know God forgives…but He would never forgive me of this.” Do we put limits on God, the Creator of the Universe? My Grandkids sing a song that goes something like this…”MY GOD IS SO BIG, SO GOOD AND SO MIGHTY, THERE’S NOTHING MY GOD CANNOT DO.” There is no limits or boundaries to what God can a will do with and for us.
P- “Oh God…forgive me for ever putting limits on You, Your love, the power of Your forgiveness and grace. I know there is NOTHING You cannot do…help me to live in this truth”
S-I Kings 20;28b The prophet relayed this message from God “Because the Arameans think the Lord is a god of the hills and not a god of the valleys, I will deliver the vast army into your hands and you will know that I am the Lord.”
O-The Arameans had just lost a great battle, which was fought in the hills, thinking that the Israelites god was only a god of the hills, they decided to fight the next battle in the valley, expecting to win. They were wrong…and were defeated.
A- Do we limit our God? Do we say “oh yes God healed him…but my illness is too big/small for Him to bother with.” Do we say “I know God forgives…but He would never forgive me of this.” Do we put limits on God, the Creator of the Universe? My Grandkids sing a song that goes something like this…”MY GOD IS SO BIG, SO GOOD AND SO MIGHTY, THERE’S NOTHING MY GOD CANNOT DO.” There is no limits or boundaries to what God can a will do with and for us.
P- “Oh God…forgive me for ever putting limits on You, Your love, the power of Your forgiveness and grace. I know there is NOTHING You cannot do…help me to live in this truth”
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Thursday June 16, 2011 1 Kings 17-19 Colossians 2
Thursday June 16, 2011
1 Kings 17-19 Colossians 2
S-Scripture O-Observation A- Application P-Prayer
S-Col. 2:13 MSG: Going under the water was a burial of your old life coming up and out of it was a resurrection. God raising you from the dead as He did Christ.
O- Paul is talking about being water baptized and when you make that decision to have your sins washed away, and to come up new in Christ, it is a heart decision, and the baptism is an act to demonstrate this choice and change in your life.
A- When I was water baptized in 1995. We had jus come back from a very powerful life changing trip to my first Vineyard Church trip in Toronto. I had made the choice to go there to have God deliver me from my addictions, rather than going to a clinic.....God was Faithful and delivered me from 3 addictions instantly. I bought a black dress in Toronto, and that Sunday at church I was water baptized in it, symbolizing the death to my sin, and the new me in Christ.
P- Thank you Jesus, that your resurrection power is for everyone and for anytime......You are just waiting to show it when the heart it right to turn from the sin. I ask that you not let the miracles of your resurrection power grow old and taken for granted, but rather we keep them fresh and your goodness is with us everyday. Thank you for my miracles:) Amen!
1 Kings 17-19 Colossians 2
S-Scripture O-Observation A- Application P-Prayer
S-Col. 2:13 MSG: Going under the water was a burial of your old life coming up and out of it was a resurrection. God raising you from the dead as He did Christ.
O- Paul is talking about being water baptized and when you make that decision to have your sins washed away, and to come up new in Christ, it is a heart decision, and the baptism is an act to demonstrate this choice and change in your life.
A- When I was water baptized in 1995. We had jus come back from a very powerful life changing trip to my first Vineyard Church trip in Toronto. I had made the choice to go there to have God deliver me from my addictions, rather than going to a clinic.....God was Faithful and delivered me from 3 addictions instantly. I bought a black dress in Toronto, and that Sunday at church I was water baptized in it, symbolizing the death to my sin, and the new me in Christ.
P- Thank you Jesus, that your resurrection power is for everyone and for anytime......You are just waiting to show it when the heart it right to turn from the sin. I ask that you not let the miracles of your resurrection power grow old and taken for granted, but rather we keep them fresh and your goodness is with us everyday. Thank you for my miracles:) Amen!
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
BUT NOW
Wednesday, June 15, 2011 - 1 Kings 16; 2 Chronicles 15, 16; Colossians 1
S - Colossians 1:21 Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior.
O - Paul is reminding the Colossians of who they were before they became believers in Jesus Christ, the son of God.
A - I remember. Once I was alienated from God and I was His enemy because of MY evil behavior. I thank God for the rest of the story. Just like Colossians 1:22 says, but now God has reconciled me by Christ's physical body through death to present ME, yes, ME, holy in His sight, without blemish and free from accusation. Wow. I SO didn't deserve it and He did it anyway because He loves me.
P - I thank You, Jesus, that You love me in spite of all my sins. Help me, Lord, to show others that You love them, too. You did it for them, too.
S - Colossians 1:21 Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior.
O - Paul is reminding the Colossians of who they were before they became believers in Jesus Christ, the son of God.
A - I remember. Once I was alienated from God and I was His enemy because of MY evil behavior. I thank God for the rest of the story. Just like Colossians 1:22 says, but now God has reconciled me by Christ's physical body through death to present ME, yes, ME, holy in His sight, without blemish and free from accusation. Wow. I SO didn't deserve it and He did it anyway because He loves me.
P - I thank You, Jesus, that You love me in spite of all my sins. Help me, Lord, to show others that You love them, too. You did it for them, too.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Kiss and Make Up!
By Cathy Weymouth
Tuesday 6/14/11 1 Kings 15; 2 Chronicles 13,14; Philippians 4 – Kiss and Make Up!
S – Phil 4:2,3 JBP, Euodia and Syntyche, I beg you by name to make up your differences as Christians should! And you, my true fellow-workers, I ask you to help these women.
O – The heart of God is reconciliation. He desires that his kids get along! In Paul's letter to this church, he calls out these two women by name, begging that they re-establish their relationship. It is so important that he even implores the other members of the church to help them.
A - I believe it is really important to kiss and make up in the Kingdom! I find that often a relationship is even closer after talking, asking forgiveness, listening to the other party, and extending forgiveness. It simply is the heart of God.
P – Father, thank you for demonstrating the value of reconciliation in the death of your Son. It must be important to you to pay that kind of price – that we could be reconciled to You. May we value this. Please empower us to kiss and make up with anyone we are at odds with.
Monday, June 13, 2011
"PRESS ON!"
by Diana Kriesel
Monday, 6/13/11 –1 Kings 13,14; 2 Chronicles 12; Philippians 3 – “Press On!”
S– Philippians 3:13-14 –“One thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”
O – Unlike the Judaizers, Paul did not claim to have attained spiritual maturity, but he was determined that he would forget the past and focus on the prize. He knew that our calling as believers is heavenward. Paul exhorts us not to look back; for when we look back we tend to go back. We are to stretch toward what is ahead, that which is of the Kingdom; pressing on, pursuing Christlikeness, like a runner in a race.
A - So many times we live divided lives. One part enjoys the things of this world and the other part wants to live for the Lord. We get ambitions for ‘things’ and earthly ambitions. Our calling is a high calling, a heavenly calling, and if we live for this world we lose focus on what are true calling is. Paul did not attempt to mingle the things of this world with the things of the Kingdom. He had one great purpose, one goal, one aim. It is our calling to be of one mind and one purpose. This will cost us, but it is nothing in light of the price that was paid for us, or the prize that awaits us.
P – Lord, teach us to live from an undivided heart and mind, with a single-minded focus that, in spite of anything that tries to distract us or take us off track. Teach us to “to press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call in Christ Jesus.”
Monday, 6/13/11 –1 Kings 13,14; 2 Chronicles 12; Philippians 3 – “Press On!”
S– Philippians 3:13-14 –“One thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”
O – Unlike the Judaizers, Paul did not claim to have attained spiritual maturity, but he was determined that he would forget the past and focus on the prize. He knew that our calling as believers is heavenward. Paul exhorts us not to look back; for when we look back we tend to go back. We are to stretch toward what is ahead, that which is of the Kingdom; pressing on, pursuing Christlikeness, like a runner in a race.
A - So many times we live divided lives. One part enjoys the things of this world and the other part wants to live for the Lord. We get ambitions for ‘things’ and earthly ambitions. Our calling is a high calling, a heavenly calling, and if we live for this world we lose focus on what are true calling is. Paul did not attempt to mingle the things of this world with the things of the Kingdom. He had one great purpose, one goal, one aim. It is our calling to be of one mind and one purpose. This will cost us, but it is nothing in light of the price that was paid for us, or the prize that awaits us.
P – Lord, teach us to live from an undivided heart and mind, with a single-minded focus that, in spite of anything that tries to distract us or take us off track. Teach us to “to press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call in Christ Jesus.”
Friday, June 10, 2011
Song of Songs 1-4; Ephesians 6 DON’T LEAVE HOME WITHOUT IT!
S=Scripture - O=Observation - A=Application - P= Prayer
S-Ephesians 6:11a “Put on the full armor of God…”
O-This is a letter from Paul encouraging the Ephesians to get ready to fight the good fight…not against men, but against the spiritual forces of evil.
A- Before we leave the house in the morning we need to be sure that we put on the full armor. Paul explains to us what the “armor of God” is. The belt of truth to be worn around our waist; the breastplate of righteousness; your feet shod with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace; the shield of faith; the helmet of salvation; and the sword of the Spirit which is the Word. Paul wants us to know that we have a full armor waiting to be put on, so we might be able to walk in victory and overcome the enemy. The armor does us no good sitting in the closet. After we have put on the armor… he says now be alert!
P-Help me Lord to be aware of the need to put on the Armor of God. Help me to walk in victory.
S-Ephesians 6:11a “Put on the full armor of God…”
O-This is a letter from Paul encouraging the Ephesians to get ready to fight the good fight…not against men, but against the spiritual forces of evil.
A- Before we leave the house in the morning we need to be sure that we put on the full armor. Paul explains to us what the “armor of God” is. The belt of truth to be worn around our waist; the breastplate of righteousness; your feet shod with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace; the shield of faith; the helmet of salvation; and the sword of the Spirit which is the Word. Paul wants us to know that we have a full armor waiting to be put on, so we might be able to walk in victory and overcome the enemy. The armor does us no good sitting in the closet. After we have put on the armor… he says now be alert!
P-Help me Lord to be aware of the need to put on the Armor of God. Help me to walk in victory.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Marriage is a gift
Thursday June 8, 2011
"Marriage is a Gift"
Ecc. 10-12; Psalm 94, Eph. 5
S- The Message Eph.5:25 Husbands, go all out in your love for your wives, exactly as Christ did for the church - a love marked by giving, not getting.
O- I observe in the scripture that christ is calling our husbands to love their wives as Christ loves the church. Christ adores the church and He loves making the church whole. Out of the love from our husbands, in return we love and respect and allow him to be the man of God he is called to be in our marriage, even if it is not perfect. That is why the two become one....to be whole.
A- My husband is awesome as an example for showing Christ love for me, and for being the head of the house. It does not mean he is domineering over me, it means he loves me and helps me through my short comings and faults, and he leans on my strengths and talents. God uses both a husband and a wife's gifts & talents and strengths & weaknesses and makes a whole and complete marriage. Sometimes my husband will say "you complete me" it's the best compliment, because he is saying I am his helpmate in areas he may have short comings.....I feel that same, and respect his decisions, even when I don't agree, because that is submission......submitting even when you don't agree.
P- Lord, thank you for the gift of marriage. That you give us a gift and a soul mate to walk through the challenges and triumphs of our life with. At times to celebrate, and at times to get through the tough stuff. Thank you, for the gift of the husband and giving him the authority to make the decisions, and the love and respect for their wives. I am blessed, bless those with a different perspective for marriages that may not feel blessed in that same way. Amen.
"Marriage is a Gift"
Ecc. 10-12; Psalm 94, Eph. 5
S- The Message Eph.5:25 Husbands, go all out in your love for your wives, exactly as Christ did for the church - a love marked by giving, not getting.
O- I observe in the scripture that christ is calling our husbands to love their wives as Christ loves the church. Christ adores the church and He loves making the church whole. Out of the love from our husbands, in return we love and respect and allow him to be the man of God he is called to be in our marriage, even if it is not perfect. That is why the two become one....to be whole.
A- My husband is awesome as an example for showing Christ love for me, and for being the head of the house. It does not mean he is domineering over me, it means he loves me and helps me through my short comings and faults, and he leans on my strengths and talents. God uses both a husband and a wife's gifts & talents and strengths & weaknesses and makes a whole and complete marriage. Sometimes my husband will say "you complete me" it's the best compliment, because he is saying I am his helpmate in areas he may have short comings.....I feel that same, and respect his decisions, even when I don't agree, because that is submission......submitting even when you don't agree.
P- Lord, thank you for the gift of marriage. That you give us a gift and a soul mate to walk through the challenges and triumphs of our life with. At times to celebrate, and at times to get through the tough stuff. Thank you, for the gift of the husband and giving him the authority to make the decisions, and the love and respect for their wives. I am blessed, bless those with a different perspective for marriages that may not feel blessed in that same way. Amen.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
HOTHEAD
Wednesday, June 8, 2011 - Ecclesiastes 7-9; Ephesians 4
S - Ecclesiastes 7:9 - Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit, for anger resides in the lap of fools.
O - Solomon is advising us to not be hotheads.
A - My father was quick tempered. He could explode at the drop of a hat and you never knew when it would happen. As I grew up, I became like him because people would JUMP. I felt like I got the desired result when I exploded. But, I was foolishly mistaken. I might have been able to change things for an instant, but things wouldn't last. I've learned over the years that NOT exploding gets me bettter, long lasting results. People will actually stick around to hear what I have to say!
P - Lord, keep me cool and even tempered. Help me to invoke positive change by not exploding, in Jesus' name I pray.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
JESUS IS MY DELIVERER!
by Cathy Weymouth
Tuesday 6/7/11 Ecclesiastes 4-6; Psalm 18; Ephesians 3 - JESUS IS MY DELIVERER!
S - Psalm 18:2,16 HCSB, The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer. He reached down from heaven and took hold of me; He pulled me out of deep waters. He rescued me from my powerful enemy.
O - I love this psalm! David gives testimony of how the Lord delivered him from his enemies who were exceedingly powerful. He testifies how God armed him with strength for the battle; how he was able to pulverize them like dust because of the Lord's deliverance! This is an encouraging psalm to read when we feel we are overwhelmed with difficulty.
A - In this psalm I see God coming powerfully to deliver us when we cry out to Him; He arms us with strength for the battle, He goes before us, He prepares the land and we come in and defeat the enemy that is trying to take us down. Then, like David, we can say, "He brought me out to a spacious place; He rescued me because He delighted in me!" (v 19). This is my weight loss testimony. I cried out, He heard me, He armed me with strength, together we defeated the enemy in my life! Jesus truly is my Deliverer!
P - Jesus, thank you! You did it! Thank you that you hear from on high and pull us out of the deep waters and indeed free us from our enemies! The Lord lives - may my rock be praised! (v 46).
Tuesday 6/7/11 Ecclesiastes 4-6; Psalm 18; Ephesians 3 - JESUS IS MY DELIVERER!
S - Psalm 18:2,16 HCSB, The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer. He reached down from heaven and took hold of me; He pulled me out of deep waters. He rescued me from my powerful enemy.
O - I love this psalm! David gives testimony of how the Lord delivered him from his enemies who were exceedingly powerful. He testifies how God armed him with strength for the battle; how he was able to pulverize them like dust because of the Lord's deliverance! This is an encouraging psalm to read when we feel we are overwhelmed with difficulty.
A - In this psalm I see God coming powerfully to deliver us when we cry out to Him; He arms us with strength for the battle, He goes before us, He prepares the land and we come in and defeat the enemy that is trying to take us down. Then, like David, we can say, "He brought me out to a spacious place; He rescued me because He delighted in me!" (v 19). This is my weight loss testimony. I cried out, He heard me, He armed me with strength, together we defeated the enemy in my life! Jesus truly is my Deliverer!
P - Jesus, thank you! You did it! Thank you that you hear from on high and pull us out of the deep waters and indeed free us from our enemies! The Lord lives - may my rock be praised! (v 46).
Monday, June 6, 2011
"But God!"
by Diana Kriesel
Monday,6/6/11 –Ecclesiastes 1-3;Psalm 45; Ephesians 2–“BUT GOD!”
[S= Scripture; O= Observation; A= Application; P= Prayer]
S– Ephesians 2:4-6 – “But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus”
O – "But God!" These are two of my favorite words in the Bible. We were living lives of sin, destination = hell; “BUT GOD!” Instead of letting us live out the consequences of our choices He chose to save us. He gave us life, and raised us from the grave of sin. And if that wasn’t enough, He has raised us to be seated together with Christ in the heavenlies. We didn’t deserve this… “But God” who is rich in mercy and great in love, made a way where there was no way, and gave us eternal life.
A – I love all the ways God intervenes in the lives of people throughout Scripture. I am always amazed at His grace and mercy. But the greatest of His interventions is stated in those two words: “But God”, for He saved us from an eternity in hell through His grace and mercy. Mercy means that God does not give me what I do deserve; grace means that He gives me what I don’t deserve. Wow!
P – Lord, we thank You for Your great love when You gave Your life for us. Thank You for giving us a new life in you. This new life calls for a new set of values, a new perspective, and a new way of living here on planet Earth. As Colossians 3:1-2 says, since we have been raised with Christ, teach us to set our hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Teach us to set our minds on things above, not on earthly things. Teach us to live from Your Kingdom’s perspective; from a “But God” perspective.
Monday,6/6/11 –Ecclesiastes 1-3;Psalm 45; Ephesians 2–“BUT GOD!”
[S= Scripture; O= Observation; A= Application; P= Prayer]
S– Ephesians 2:4-6 – “But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus”
O – "But God!" These are two of my favorite words in the Bible. We were living lives of sin, destination = hell; “BUT GOD!” Instead of letting us live out the consequences of our choices He chose to save us. He gave us life, and raised us from the grave of sin. And if that wasn’t enough, He has raised us to be seated together with Christ in the heavenlies. We didn’t deserve this… “But God” who is rich in mercy and great in love, made a way where there was no way, and gave us eternal life.
A – I love all the ways God intervenes in the lives of people throughout Scripture. I am always amazed at His grace and mercy. But the greatest of His interventions is stated in those two words: “But God”, for He saved us from an eternity in hell through His grace and mercy. Mercy means that God does not give me what I do deserve; grace means that He gives me what I don’t deserve. Wow!
P – Lord, we thank You for Your great love when You gave Your life for us. Thank You for giving us a new life in you. This new life calls for a new set of values, a new perspective, and a new way of living here on planet Earth. As Colossians 3:1-2 says, since we have been raised with Christ, teach us to set our hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Teach us to set our minds on things above, not on earthly things. Teach us to live from Your Kingdom’s perspective; from a “But God” perspective.
Saturday, June 4, 2011
A Loving Pursuit of Wisdom
S - Proverbs 29:3 - "Whoever loves wisdom, makes his father rejoice."
O - When I think of wisdom, I think of spiritual wisdom, and also of practical life wisdom. I think of the wisdom of perspective, integrity, healthy relationships, and wise decisions. I also think of the wisdom of learning from our mistakes. Of course, any parent will rejoice when their children, young or grown, have wisdom. What I love, what I value, what I treasure, I will seek. The bible tells us that wisdom is a gift form God that comes through diligent seeking and application. We need to act and live by the wisdom that we have, and seek for more. Our Father in heaven rejoices over this because He loves us and wants the best that wisdom can give us. Above wealth, above gifting, talent and opportunities, is the gift of wisdom. Without wisdom, we can squander and lose all those other gifts.
A - Today, I will ask God "What is the wise thing to do? What is the wise thing to say?"
P - Lord, how we need your wisdom. We humbly seek to read your word and listen for the wisdom that your Holy Spirit gives. We ask for your guidance and your wisdom, and the grace and strength to walk in it. Amen.
O - When I think of wisdom, I think of spiritual wisdom, and also of practical life wisdom. I think of the wisdom of perspective, integrity, healthy relationships, and wise decisions. I also think of the wisdom of learning from our mistakes. Of course, any parent will rejoice when their children, young or grown, have wisdom. What I love, what I value, what I treasure, I will seek. The bible tells us that wisdom is a gift form God that comes through diligent seeking and application. We need to act and live by the wisdom that we have, and seek for more. Our Father in heaven rejoices over this because He loves us and wants the best that wisdom can give us. Above wealth, above gifting, talent and opportunities, is the gift of wisdom. Without wisdom, we can squander and lose all those other gifts.
A - Today, I will ask God "What is the wise thing to do? What is the wise thing to say?"
P - Lord, how we need your wisdom. We humbly seek to read your word and listen for the wisdom that your Holy Spirit gives. We ask for your guidance and your wisdom, and the grace and strength to walk in it. Amen.
Friday, June 3, 2011
Friday, June 3, 2011 Proverbs 25-27; Roman 15
HOPE
S=Scripture - O=Observation - A=Application - P= Prayer
S-Romans 15:13 “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust Him…so that you may be overflowing with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
O-Paul is ministering to the Gentiles.
A-My study Bible says that “Any HOPE the Christian has comes from God by the power of the Holy Spirit. HOPE cannot be conjured up by human effort, it is God’s gift by His Spirit.” When sickness hangs on and you are constantly bombarded with pain, you can start to lose HOPE. We can try to put on a “good face”, “buck up” and “hang in there.” We can try to conjure up HOPE…but HOPE is a gift…as we trust God in all areas of our lives. I know that when times are difficult for me I try to remind myself of all the times that God DID come through for me…this helps to build my faith and helps me move from discouragement to HOPE.
P-Oh God, I don’t want to just endure the trials I go through…I want to be filled with HOPE. Forgive me for my lack of faith and trust and help me to trust you in all areas of my life. Thank you for loving me no matter what I feel, say or do. You are AWESOME.
S=Scripture - O=Observation - A=Application - P= Prayer
S-Romans 15:13 “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust Him…so that you may be overflowing with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
O-Paul is ministering to the Gentiles.
A-My study Bible says that “Any HOPE the Christian has comes from God by the power of the Holy Spirit. HOPE cannot be conjured up by human effort, it is God’s gift by His Spirit.” When sickness hangs on and you are constantly bombarded with pain, you can start to lose HOPE. We can try to put on a “good face”, “buck up” and “hang in there.” We can try to conjure up HOPE…but HOPE is a gift…as we trust God in all areas of our lives. I know that when times are difficult for me I try to remind myself of all the times that God DID come through for me…this helps to build my faith and helps me move from discouragement to HOPE.
P-Oh God, I don’t want to just endure the trials I go through…I want to be filled with HOPE. Forgive me for my lack of faith and trust and help me to trust you in all areas of my life. Thank you for loving me no matter what I feel, say or do. You are AWESOME.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Thursday June 2, 2011 Prov. 22-24, Romans 14 "Keep your opinion to Yourself"
Thursday June 2, 2011
Prov. 22-24, Romans 14
"Keep your opinion to Yourself"
S- Romans 14: 19 Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.
O- In this passage of scripture Paul is warning us not to judge or voice our opinions about other people's beliefs with food. Some may feel it is not sacred to eat meat on certain days, and we may oppose of that. He is cautioning us to keep our opinions about food to ourselves, because all food is clean, and it wrong to eat or drink something if it would cause someone else to stumble,
A- I have relative that is a very strong Catholic, and she believes it is wrong to eat meat on Friday's. I do not believe that, but I would be wrong to serve her meat on Friday, and it would be disrespectful to her and what she believes. God wants us to be in one accord, even in the little things that really don't matter. Choose your battles as to what could possibly bring dissension, and flee from that subject.
P-Father, thank you that you make us all different, and with our different opinions. Each one of us is unique and created by you, and special. Lord help us to hold our tongues and control our opinions about each other, unless it is an opinion of edification and the building up of each other. Thank you for everyone's uniqueness and differences. Amen
Prov. 22-24, Romans 14
"Keep your opinion to Yourself"
S- Romans 14: 19 Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.
O- In this passage of scripture Paul is warning us not to judge or voice our opinions about other people's beliefs with food. Some may feel it is not sacred to eat meat on certain days, and we may oppose of that. He is cautioning us to keep our opinions about food to ourselves, because all food is clean, and it wrong to eat or drink something if it would cause someone else to stumble,
A- I have relative that is a very strong Catholic, and she believes it is wrong to eat meat on Friday's. I do not believe that, but I would be wrong to serve her meat on Friday, and it would be disrespectful to her and what she believes. God wants us to be in one accord, even in the little things that really don't matter. Choose your battles as to what could possibly bring dissension, and flee from that subject.
P-Father, thank you that you make us all different, and with our different opinions. Each one of us is unique and created by you, and special. Lord help us to hold our tongues and control our opinions about each other, unless it is an opinion of edification and the building up of each other. Thank you for everyone's uniqueness and differences. Amen
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
RULES AND RULERS
Wednesday, June 1, 2011 - Proverbs 19-21; Romans 13
S - Romans 13:1 Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established.
O - This is Paul's admonition to obey the law, whether or not you feel like it.
A - This is a good word for an inherently rebellious heart like mine. I don't always agree with the law and authorities, but God commands me to obey and respect authority. I say I don't like rules,but if they are established, I will abide by them. I feel that if I am participating in an event with rules or am visiting a place with rules, then I should obey them or just not be there.
P - Lord, I thank You for rules and rulers and for those who obey them. Rules and rulers are there for a reason and You have established them. Help me to be respectful and obedient.
S - Romans 13:1 Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established.
O - This is Paul's admonition to obey the law, whether or not you feel like it.
A - This is a good word for an inherently rebellious heart like mine. I don't always agree with the law and authorities, but God commands me to obey and respect authority. I say I don't like rules,but if they are established, I will abide by them. I feel that if I am participating in an event with rules or am visiting a place with rules, then I should obey them or just not be there.
P - Lord, I thank You for rules and rulers and for those who obey them. Rules and rulers are there for a reason and You have established them. Help me to be respectful and obedient.
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