Wednesday, August 31, 2011 - Ezekiel 12-14; Revelation 5
S - Ezekiel 13:10 "'Because they lead my people astray, saying, "Peace," when there is no peace, and because, when a flimsy wall is built, they cover it with whitewash,...'"
O - God is telling Ezekiel that He is sending destruction to Israel because of the prophets who claim to prophesy in God's name.
A - We're people pleasers, aren't we? We want people to feel good so they keep coming back. We tell them what they want to hear, what we want to hear, in the name of Jesus, even when we haven't heard it by the Holy Spirit. Sin is sin and God will punish for it. Yes, God is love; He is also just and righteous. God wants us to tell people who He really is, not who they want Him to be so they can continue in their sin without feeling bad about it.
P - Lord, help me to always tell the truth about who You are and what sin is. I want to not be so intent on making people feel good and more intent on showing them the Truth and who You really are. Thank You for your love AND your justice, Lord.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Don't Settle
Tuesday, August 30, 2011 – Ezekiel 8-1; Revelation 4 – Don’t Settle
S: Ezekiel 11:12 (MSG) – Instead of following my ways you’ve sunk to the level of the laws of the nations around you.
O: Jerusalem had sunk to the level of the nations around it by engaging in idolatry, deceitfulness, murder & all other kinds of sin.
A: God’s ways are not mankind’s ways. We are not called to “settle” for the behavior of the nations around us (or even the people around us). God has a higher calling for you and for me. We are called to live a life set apart from the rest of the world. People should be able to look at our lives and without asking know that we follow Jesus. Maybe they don’t even know who Jesus is but they should be able to tell that there is something different about us. This resonates inside of me. Does my life look different? Do I cut corners? Am I pleasing man or God? Do I measure my behavior by the standards of the world or God? If I am truly in love with the creator of the universe my only desire should be to please Him.
P: Father God reveal to me any areas of my life where I am “settling” for the world’s definition of right and wrong and not yours. My desire is to live my life completely sold out to you. Let my life clearly reflect your light. Amen.
S: Ezekiel 11:12 (MSG) – Instead of following my ways you’ve sunk to the level of the laws of the nations around you.
O: Jerusalem had sunk to the level of the nations around it by engaging in idolatry, deceitfulness, murder & all other kinds of sin.
A: God’s ways are not mankind’s ways. We are not called to “settle” for the behavior of the nations around us (or even the people around us). God has a higher calling for you and for me. We are called to live a life set apart from the rest of the world. People should be able to look at our lives and without asking know that we follow Jesus. Maybe they don’t even know who Jesus is but they should be able to tell that there is something different about us. This resonates inside of me. Does my life look different? Do I cut corners? Am I pleasing man or God? Do I measure my behavior by the standards of the world or God? If I am truly in love with the creator of the universe my only desire should be to please Him.
P: Father God reveal to me any areas of my life where I am “settling” for the world’s definition of right and wrong and not yours. My desire is to live my life completely sold out to you. Let my life clearly reflect your light. Amen.
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Let's Dance
August 28th – Ezekiel 1-3; Revelation 2
S: Rev 2:4 (MSG) – But you walked away from your first love – why?
O: It’s all about love. We can be servants and yet lose sight of why we serve.
A: I am in love with Jesus. Not a love born out of a debt that I must repay but a love born out of passion. He is my first love but there have been times when I too have taken my eyes off the lover of my soul and done things out of a sense of obligation, or a desire to get pats on the back from the “right people” or out of a desire for position. During that time I did not get a sense of peace and well being from my service. It felt empty. At the end of the day I was drained and tired – not full of joy and excitement like I usually am. I had walked away from my first love. But the amazing thing about Jesus is that if you just put your focus back on him you will fall in love with him all over again & he is a faithful lover – he will not leave or take up with someone else. He will wait patiently for you to turn and see your lover standing in the middle of the dance floor waiting for you to throw yourselves back into his arms so he can dance you around the room.
P: Father God take me deeper in love today. Draw me close today Lord and give me rest and peace and joy and strength and energy simply from being in your presence. Let’s Dance.
S: Rev 2:4 (MSG) – But you walked away from your first love – why?
O: It’s all about love. We can be servants and yet lose sight of why we serve.
A: I am in love with Jesus. Not a love born out of a debt that I must repay but a love born out of passion. He is my first love but there have been times when I too have taken my eyes off the lover of my soul and done things out of a sense of obligation, or a desire to get pats on the back from the “right people” or out of a desire for position. During that time I did not get a sense of peace and well being from my service. It felt empty. At the end of the day I was drained and tired – not full of joy and excitement like I usually am. I had walked away from my first love. But the amazing thing about Jesus is that if you just put your focus back on him you will fall in love with him all over again & he is a faithful lover – he will not leave or take up with someone else. He will wait patiently for you to turn and see your lover standing in the middle of the dance floor waiting for you to throw yourselves back into his arms so he can dance you around the room.
P: Father God take me deeper in love today. Draw me close today Lord and give me rest and peace and joy and strength and energy simply from being in your presence. Let’s Dance.
Saturday, August 27, 2011
Happy Are The People!
Saturday, 27-,2011 – Jeremiah 52; Rev 1; Psalms 144,143
S=Scripture; O=Observation; A=Application; P=Prayer
Happy Are The People!
S – Psalms 144:15 “Happy are the people who are in such a state; Happy are the People whose God is the Lord!
O – David is praising God as the Deliverer and acknowledging that He is the one who brings blessings and prosperity. He is the One who brings hope and a state of happiness to all that acknowledge Him as being their God.
A - Happy are the people whose God is the Lord! Such a simple verse, but a verse packed with so much meaning and power! Can I say happy are the people when I’m sick? When I’m facing financial difficulties? When a loved one dies? When I’m faced with insurmountable obstacles? Once we begin to understand the character of God, that He is good, faithful, merciful, kind, gracious, loving; that brings with it a hope that His desire for us is to bring us into a “state of happiness”. He will deliver us, and or walk us through, whatever problem or undesirable situation we are faced with. He is the Victorious One and He gives me courage and strength, and you courage and strength to overcome and to walk through whatever circumstance we may face. In answer to the questions….Yes, I can say, and you can say, “Happy are the people whose God is the Lord!”
P- Heavenly Father you are the Mighty One, who gives us a hope and a future. We do not need to walk in a state of fear or hopelessness. Keep us ever mindful of Your great love towards us and that you have a hope and a future for each of us that are called the children of God. We acknowledge that you are good and say, happy are those whose God is the Lord! Amen.
Friday, August 26, 2011
“Walk the Talk”
S=Scripture O=Objective A=Application, P=Prayer
S--”Greater joy have I none than this, to have my children walking in the Truth.”
O- John was a man of passion and love. His writing was plain, simple yet very profound.
A--As a mother and teacher of new Christians, I understand what John is saying. When I see my son and daughter walking faithfully with God, I am so thankful and it fills me with joy. When I watch a new Christian embrace the things of God and turn from the things of the world that dragged them down, I am filled with joy! It makes me realize the importance of “walk the talk.” Kids as wekk as new Christians will imitate older Christians/parents, therefore, I want to give them something real and good to imitate.
P--Oh God help me to live my life to honor you, help me to be a good role model for those around me. Forgive me Lord for the many times I’ve failed in this area.
Thursday, August 25, 2011
"Love & Unity"
Thursday Aug. 25, 2011
Jer. 37-39; Ps. 79; 2John
"Love & Unity"
S- (The Message) 2 John 6- Love means following his commandments, and his unifying commandment is that you conduct your lives in love.
O-A message to the church and it's members to love one another and to be unified. It's not something to take lightly, as it is a commandment because it is the most important thing we MUST do.
A- God calls us to love, and to be unified in our body with our brothers & sisters in Christ. That can be so difficult at times, because we are all different and can be hurt by each other. BUT GOD gives us all the same gift when we come to know Him.....it's called forgiveness. Forgiveness covers a multitude of hurts and sin. With that special gift all things are possible and God knew that, so He commands us to get it right, and to LOVE! You can love someone even when you don't like them:) If a person you have an offense or hurt with was drowning and you wouldn't jump in to save their life.....you have not love.
P-Heavenly Father what you ask of us is so little compared to what you have done for us. To love one another and to be in unity.....it's our selfishness and our stubbornness that keeps our love from flowing. Lord work in our hearts to be a loving and compassionate person, especially to those who we have an offense or hurt with from our own congregation. Start with me, Lord....bring us into perfect fellowship with one anoth
Jer. 37-39; Ps. 79; 2John
"Love & Unity"
S- (The Message) 2 John 6- Love means following his commandments, and his unifying commandment is that you conduct your lives in love.
O-A message to the church and it's members to love one another and to be unified. It's not something to take lightly, as it is a commandment because it is the most important thing we MUST do.
A- God calls us to love, and to be unified in our body with our brothers & sisters in Christ. That can be so difficult at times, because we are all different and can be hurt by each other. BUT GOD gives us all the same gift when we come to know Him.....it's called forgiveness. Forgiveness covers a multitude of hurts and sin. With that special gift all things are possible and God knew that, so He commands us to get it right, and to LOVE! You can love someone even when you don't like them:) If a person you have an offense or hurt with was drowning and you wouldn't jump in to save their life.....you have not love.
P-Heavenly Father what you ask of us is so little compared to what you have done for us. To love one another and to be in unity.....it's our selfishness and our stubbornness that keeps our love from flowing. Lord work in our hearts to be a loving and compassionate person, especially to those who we have an offense or hurt with from our own congregation. Start with me, Lord....bring us into perfect fellowship with one anoth
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
IF YOU LOVE GOD
Wednesday, August 24, 2011 - Jeremiah 33, 34; Psalm 74; 1 John 5
S - 1 John 5:3 In fact, this is love for God: to keep his commands. And his commands are not burdensome,...
O - John is telling us what true love for God looks like.
A - You say you love God. I ask, "Do you love God?" and you reply "Of course I do!" And yet you do not keep His commands. You lied to your spouse about how much money you spent. You ridiculed your mother and so dishonored her. I heard you say that you hated someone - Jesus said that is the same as murdering. And you're jealous of your friend's new car - that is coveting. See? You are failing to keep God's commands. If you claim to love Him - then love Him fully - so much so that keeping His commands is not difficult for you - not at all - because of love.
P - Oh, Lord, I love You so much. Remind me, Lord, when I am tempted to sin, of my love for You so that I will turn from sin to the face of my Love.
S - 1 John 5:3 In fact, this is love for God: to keep his commands. And his commands are not burdensome,...
O - John is telling us what true love for God looks like.
A - You say you love God. I ask, "Do you love God?" and you reply "Of course I do!" And yet you do not keep His commands. You lied to your spouse about how much money you spent. You ridiculed your mother and so dishonored her. I heard you say that you hated someone - Jesus said that is the same as murdering. And you're jealous of your friend's new car - that is coveting. See? You are failing to keep God's commands. If you claim to love Him - then love Him fully - so much so that keeping His commands is not difficult for you - not at all - because of love.
P - Oh, Lord, I love You so much. Remind me, Lord, when I am tempted to sin, of my love for You so that I will turn from sin to the face of my Love.
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
LOVE
S: 1 John 4:19 (MSG) – We though are going to love – love and be loved. First we were loved, now we love. He loved us first.
O: Our job assignment as believers is to love God and love others.
A: God loved me first when he surrendered his only son to die on a cross for my sin. What greater love is there? God loved me when I was not very loveable. I was not aware of his love because I was so enmeshed in my sin that I could not receive it. I did nothing to earn his love – the wreckage of my past was evidence enough of that. God loved us first. When I encountered the love of God I was changed forever. I had to respond to His love with love. I fell in love with God and by falling in love with God I began to learn to love other people. I am far from perfect at it but when I make time in my life to fill up with God’s love I don’t have to work as hard at it. Last night I spent my evening at the jail in a room full of women I didn’t know and in just a little over an hour I was in love. I didn’t care where they came from or what they had done – I just loved them. That love is not of me but of God. I found myself looking at a woman in jail for murder and all I could see is how beautiful she is. That’s not me. That’s God.
P: Father God thank you for loving me when I was not loveable. Give me your heart Lord that I may love others even when they aren’t the most loveable. Fill me with your love today Lord so that I may give it away freely as it was given to me. I love you Lord. I surrender myself to you and ask you to pour me out today and let your love flow through me.
Today's Reading: Jeremiah 31, 32; 1 John 4
O: Our job assignment as believers is to love God and love others.
A: God loved me first when he surrendered his only son to die on a cross for my sin. What greater love is there? God loved me when I was not very loveable. I was not aware of his love because I was so enmeshed in my sin that I could not receive it. I did nothing to earn his love – the wreckage of my past was evidence enough of that. God loved us first. When I encountered the love of God I was changed forever. I had to respond to His love with love. I fell in love with God and by falling in love with God I began to learn to love other people. I am far from perfect at it but when I make time in my life to fill up with God’s love I don’t have to work as hard at it. Last night I spent my evening at the jail in a room full of women I didn’t know and in just a little over an hour I was in love. I didn’t care where they came from or what they had done – I just loved them. That love is not of me but of God. I found myself looking at a woman in jail for murder and all I could see is how beautiful she is. That’s not me. That’s God.
P: Father God thank you for loving me when I was not loveable. Give me your heart Lord that I may love others even when they aren’t the most loveable. Fill me with your love today Lord so that I may give it away freely as it was given to me. I love you Lord. I surrender myself to you and ask you to pour me out today and let your love flow through me.
Today's Reading: Jeremiah 31, 32; 1 John 4
Sunday, August 21, 2011
REAL LIFE
Sunday, August 21st: Jeremiah 21, 24 & 27; Psalm 118 & 1 John 2
S: 1 John 2:24-25 (MSG): Stay with what you heard from the beginning, the original message. Let it sink into your life. If what you heard from the beginning lives deeply in you , you will live deeply in both Son and Father. This is exactly what Christ promised eternal life, real life.
O: Don’t mess with the original message. Let God’s word sink deep into your life and you will live deeply with Father and Son. This is real life.
A: For me, God’s word requires no interpretation. There is no “well what he really meant was……” It doesn’t need to be changed or altered to suit my needs or my circumstances. God’s word is the compass by which I try to live my life. I don’t want to live by an altered version of what God might have said. I want to live by the truth. I have spent too much time believing lies about myself (you’re too fat, too ugly, you’d be happier if you had more money, if you step out and try that you will fail) – these are the kinds of things the Enemy would like for me to believe. That is why I love the Word. Because when I get lost in the darkness of those lies……..the Word of God says “I love you” “I chose you” “Step out of that boat and come to me”. My heart’s desire is for the word of God to live so deeply inside of me that it becomes a part of who I am. That it changes me into the woman God has called me to be. Only the truth can bring me face to face with Jesus. Only Jesus can bring about lasting change in my life and the lives around me.
P: Father God thank you for your Word. Let it sink so deeply inside of me Lord that I become lost in it. I want more of YOU. Let your Word take me deeper, into deeper intimacy with you.
S: 1 John 2:24-25 (MSG): Stay with what you heard from the beginning, the original message. Let it sink into your life. If what you heard from the beginning lives deeply in you , you will live deeply in both Son and Father. This is exactly what Christ promised eternal life, real life.
O: Don’t mess with the original message. Let God’s word sink deep into your life and you will live deeply with Father and Son. This is real life.
A: For me, God’s word requires no interpretation. There is no “well what he really meant was……” It doesn’t need to be changed or altered to suit my needs or my circumstances. God’s word is the compass by which I try to live my life. I don’t want to live by an altered version of what God might have said. I want to live by the truth. I have spent too much time believing lies about myself (you’re too fat, too ugly, you’d be happier if you had more money, if you step out and try that you will fail) – these are the kinds of things the Enemy would like for me to believe. That is why I love the Word. Because when I get lost in the darkness of those lies……..the Word of God says “I love you” “I chose you” “Step out of that boat and come to me”. My heart’s desire is for the word of God to live so deeply inside of me that it becomes a part of who I am. That it changes me into the woman God has called me to be. Only the truth can bring me face to face with Jesus. Only Jesus can bring about lasting change in my life and the lives around me.
P: Father God thank you for your Word. Let it sink so deeply inside of me Lord that I become lost in it. I want more of YOU. Let your Word take me deeper, into deeper intimacy with you.
Saturday, August 20, 2011
"Sing For Joy!"
Saturday, 8-20,2011 – Jeremiah 48,49; Psalms 67; 1 John 1 - “Sing for Joy”
S=Scripture; O=Observation; A=Application; P=Prayer
S – Psalms 67:4 “Oh, let the nations be glad and sing for joy! For You shall judge the people righteously, And govern the nations on earth. Selah.”
O – The psalmist in recognizing God as the righteous judge who will one day govern all the nations on the earth.
A – To be righteous. If you were to look this word up in the dictionary (always behaving according to a religious or moral code)it wouldn’t take you long to realize that as a nation or nations we fall short of observing the standards set forth by our Heavenly Father. We open up our newspapers or turn on our televisions to see that if anything injustice has run ramped in our society as we know it today. It can bring a sense of “gloom and doom”, but God! As the psalmist writes in his song, “Oh let the nations be glad and sing for joy!” As His people we have something to sing about! We can look beyond what we see and hear today and rejoice in knowing that one day He is coming to rule and reign over the nations and all the earth.
P- Heavenly Father, we rejoice in knowing You as the righteous Judge, the righteous One, who will one day rule and reign over all the earth. We look for that day. We bow our hearts and our will before you and say, Your kingdom come, Your will be done.
Friday, August 19, 2011
“FEED MY SHEEP”
Jeremiah 45-47; Psalm 105; John 21
S=Scripture=Objective. A=Application, P=Prayer
S--John 21:15-17 “Simon do you truly love me?” …feed My Lambs…”Do you truly love me? Take care of my sheep.” “Do you love me?…Feed my sheep.”
O--Jesus asked Simon Peter 3 times “Do you love me? Peter repeated 3 times “Yes Lord you know that I do.” Jesus answered…”feed my lambs, take care of my sheep and feed my sheep.” Seems here Jesus is equating Peter’s love for Him with feeding (teaching) His new believers, and the flock, and taking care of them.
A--When my husband asked me to make a 2nd voyage with him it meant I would need to quit the job I loved, and relinquish the position I had been given. I really did not want to do this …but I loved my husband and knew that the greatest act of love at that time was to say “let’s go sailing.” Honestly, since we’ve returned from our trip, our marriage has never been better. God implies in these verses that love=teaching and taking care of His people. This is not a difficult task…it can be a labor of love…love of God and of our fellowman.
P--Oh God sometimes I forget how very loving You are. Your desire remains the same…”If you love me feed my sheep.” Help me Lord to be Your hands extended to a hurting world.” I do love You.
S=Scripture=Objective. A=Application, P=Prayer
S--John 21:15-17 “Simon do you truly love me?” …feed My Lambs…”Do you truly love me? Take care of my sheep.” “Do you love me?…Feed my sheep.”
O--Jesus asked Simon Peter 3 times “Do you love me? Peter repeated 3 times “Yes Lord you know that I do.” Jesus answered…”feed my lambs, take care of my sheep and feed my sheep.” Seems here Jesus is equating Peter’s love for Him with feeding (teaching) His new believers, and the flock, and taking care of them.
A--When my husband asked me to make a 2nd voyage with him it meant I would need to quit the job I loved, and relinquish the position I had been given. I really did not want to do this …but I loved my husband and knew that the greatest act of love at that time was to say “let’s go sailing.” Honestly, since we’ve returned from our trip, our marriage has never been better. God implies in these verses that love=teaching and taking care of His people. This is not a difficult task…it can be a labor of love…love of God and of our fellowman.
P--Oh God sometimes I forget how very loving You are. Your desire remains the same…”If you love me feed my sheep.” Help me Lord to be Your hands extended to a hurting world.” I do love You.
Thursday, August 18, 2011
BLESSED AND HAPPY
Thursday, August 18, 2011 - Jeremiah 26,35,36; John 20
S - John 20:29b Blessed and happy and to be envied are those who have never seen Me and yet have believed and adhered to and trusted and relied on Me. (Amplified Bible)
O - Jesus addressed Thomas' finally believing in the resurrection because he was able to see and touch Jesus.
A - I believe, even though I have never seen Jesus - so according to Jesus, I am blessed and happy and to be envied. Jesus says I'm happy - so I'm going to start living it in a bigger way. I get caught up in what's going on in the natural that I put aside what's going on in the spiritual.
P - Lord, help me to focus MORE on You - who You are and what You've done for me, that my joy would be evident to all the world - especially my family - so they could see and follow me into the kingdom.
S - John 20:29b Blessed and happy and to be envied are those who have never seen Me and yet have believed and adhered to and trusted and relied on Me. (Amplified Bible)
O - Jesus addressed Thomas' finally believing in the resurrection because he was able to see and touch Jesus.
A - I believe, even though I have never seen Jesus - so according to Jesus, I am blessed and happy and to be envied. Jesus says I'm happy - so I'm going to start living it in a bigger way. I get caught up in what's going on in the natural that I put aside what's going on in the spiritual.
P - Lord, help me to focus MORE on You - who You are and what You've done for me, that my joy would be evident to all the world - especially my family - so they could see and follow me into the kingdom.
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
SECRET DISCIPLE?
Wednesday, August 17, 2011 - Jeremiah 23, 25; John 19
S - John 19:39 Nicodemus, who had first come to Jesus at night, came now in broad daylight carrying a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds.
O - Nicodemus, along with Joseph of Arimathea, finally decided to honor Jesus in the open, instead of in secret.
A - Do they know that you believe? Are you a secret Christian? There is no shame in believing in Christ and following the one true God and what He has written in His Word. If you are ashamed, then the esteem of man ranks higher with you than your love for the Man who gave His life for you. How sad Nicodemus and Joseph must have been to have seemingly lost one whom they loved so much and yet they never dared to show it. And how bold, after Jesus' death, to finally step out and honor Him.
P - Lord, help me to love and honor the living now so that I have no regrets. And help me to honor You by worshiping and following You openly, without shame, because I love You more than the esteem of man.
S - John 19:39 Nicodemus, who had first come to Jesus at night, came now in broad daylight carrying a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds.
O - Nicodemus, along with Joseph of Arimathea, finally decided to honor Jesus in the open, instead of in secret.
A - Do they know that you believe? Are you a secret Christian? There is no shame in believing in Christ and following the one true God and what He has written in His Word. If you are ashamed, then the esteem of man ranks higher with you than your love for the Man who gave His life for you. How sad Nicodemus and Joseph must have been to have seemingly lost one whom they loved so much and yet they never dared to show it. And how bold, after Jesus' death, to finally step out and honor Him.
P - Lord, help me to love and honor the living now so that I have no regrets. And help me to honor You by worshiping and following You openly, without shame, because I love You more than the esteem of man.
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Where Do You Hang Out?
by Cathy Weymouth
S=Scripture, O=Observation, A=Application, P= Prayer
Tuesday 8/16/11, 2 Kings 24; Jeremiah 22, Psalm 112; John 18 - Where Do You Hang Out?
S - John 18:1-2 JBP, When Jesus had spoken these words, he went out with his disciples across the Cedron valley to a place where there was a garden and they went into it together. Judas who betrayed him knew the place, for Jesus often met his disciples there.
O - For three years Jesus was intimate with his disciples. They fellowshiped, traveled, ministered, ate and hung out together.
A - I like that Jesus and his disciples hung out together in a garden! That's a beautiful place to join together, surrounded by the beauty of nature. So much of Christianity is about relationship - relationship with God and relationship with each other. I like relationships! I like that God gave us this gift of relationships. Where do you hang out with Jesus? Where do you hang out with close Christian friends? I have some favorite spots and I am grateful that I live in a beautiful part of the country with incredible sights, smells and sounds of nature to share with my friends and Jesus.
P - Lord, thank you that you have made us for relationship. If someone is lonely today, I pray that they would reach out and become a friend to another. There is no better way to connect than to meet with and help meet the needs of another. And may we appreciate the nature you have given us in Vermont!
S=Scripture, O=Observation, A=Application, P= Prayer
Tuesday 8/16/11, 2 Kings 24; Jeremiah 22, Psalm 112; John 18 - Where Do You Hang Out?
S - John 18:1-2 JBP, When Jesus had spoken these words, he went out with his disciples across the Cedron valley to a place where there was a garden and they went into it together. Judas who betrayed him knew the place, for Jesus often met his disciples there.
O - For three years Jesus was intimate with his disciples. They fellowshiped, traveled, ministered, ate and hung out together.
A - I like that Jesus and his disciples hung out together in a garden! That's a beautiful place to join together, surrounded by the beauty of nature. So much of Christianity is about relationship - relationship with God and relationship with each other. I like relationships! I like that God gave us this gift of relationships. Where do you hang out with Jesus? Where do you hang out with close Christian friends? I have some favorite spots and I am grateful that I live in a beautiful part of the country with incredible sights, smells and sounds of nature to share with my friends and Jesus.
P - Lord, thank you that you have made us for relationship. If someone is lonely today, I pray that they would reach out and become a friend to another. There is no better way to connect than to meet with and help meet the needs of another. And may we appreciate the nature you have given us in Vermont!
Saturday, August 13, 2011
ABIDE IN ME
Saturday, 8-13,2011 – Jeremiah 13-15; John 15 - “Abide In Me”
O - Jesus is teaching his disciples the importance of living in Him and His living in them. That without Him they would not be able to represent a Christ like character, their actions in challenging circumstances would be worldly, and they would not be influential in winning others to Christ. Eventually they would lose their passion for being His disciples and go back into the world with its ultimate end….death.
A -This past spring driving to work I noticed the beautiful trees that lined our city streets. They were in full bloom, filled with pretty pink flowers. On one particular morning after a heavy snow fall (not unusual for Vermont) I noticed one of the branches with all its beautiful flowers had broken off one of the trees. It reminded me of Jesus’ teaching, “If anyone does not abide in Me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned.” It was sad to realize that this branch with all of its beautiful flowers was going to wither and die and eventually be collected by the city maintenance people and tossed into a burning fire never more to be remembered or realized of its full potential. That broken branch still maintained its beautiful flowers, it still looked as though life was flowing through it, but eventually those flowers would fade and the branch would dry up and die. Like the flowers and branch still perceiving to have life but no longer being a part of the tree if we choose to no longer live in Christ and He in us we will only “look alive” and only for a short time. Eventually we will go back into the things of the world and die. We will never come to realize the full potential that He has placed within us. Our choice to “live in Him” will bring forth His likeness, His purpose, His plans, and the full potential to bring forth “ fruit “ yes, the fruit He already sees within us!
P- Jesus you are the Vine. Father you are the Vinedresser. Help us to continually abide in you as You abide in us. We give you permission to work out the things that will bring about Christ likeness within us. May our one desire be to glorify You in the things that we say and do, and to be known as Your disciples.
Friday, August 12, 2011
PLEASE DON’T GO
Jeremiah 10-12; John 14
S=Scripture=Objective. A=Application, P=Prayer
S--Jn. 14:27 b “Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not be afraid.”
O--Jesus is talking to His followers and telling them that He will be leaving them soon. Jesus had a plan…but they were so wrapped up in their lives and ministry that they could not understand His need to go. He knew the big picture. He went (died) that we might live with Him for eternity. They were distraught and Jesus was trying to encourage and educate them on what is to come.
A--Have you ever had someone very important to you say that they are leaving? Even if they say they will be back…there is a desperation that you feel. “If you really loved me you wouldn’t go…how can you do this to me?” Our hearts become troubled and we are afraid…BUT God…He has a plan for our lives…people we love will come and go, and though this saddens us…we must trust that God knows and sees the big picture.
P--Lord, help me to trust in You and in Your Word. I do not want my heart to be troubled or be afraid, so help me to see the big picture in all circumstances in my life.
S=Scripture=Objective. A=Application, P=Prayer
S--Jn. 14:27 b “Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not be afraid.”
O--Jesus is talking to His followers and telling them that He will be leaving them soon. Jesus had a plan…but they were so wrapped up in their lives and ministry that they could not understand His need to go. He knew the big picture. He went (died) that we might live with Him for eternity. They were distraught and Jesus was trying to encourage and educate them on what is to come.
A--Have you ever had someone very important to you say that they are leaving? Even if they say they will be back…there is a desperation that you feel. “If you really loved me you wouldn’t go…how can you do this to me?” Our hearts become troubled and we are afraid…BUT God…He has a plan for our lives…people we love will come and go, and though this saddens us…we must trust that God knows and sees the big picture.
P--Lord, help me to trust in You and in Your Word. I do not want my heart to be troubled or be afraid, so help me to see the big picture in all circumstances in my life.
Thursday, August 11, 2011
S=Scripture, O=Observation, A=Application, P= Prayer
Thursday August 11, 2011
Jer. 7-9, John 13
"serve on another"
S- John 13:10 Jesus answered, "A person who has had a bath needs only to wash his feet; his whole body is clean. And you are clean, thought not everyone of you."
O- Just before the Passover Feast with Jesus's disciples, Jesus prepares to wash their feet. This was an unheard of surprise to Peter, and he says......"No, you shall never wash my feet." Jesus replies, that if you don't allow me to wash you feet, you will have no part of me. Peter replies, then wash my hands, my head....all of me.
A- Jesus washed feet to be a teacher and Lord to show what we should do for one another, which is "serve one another."
Why our feet? Our feet are one of the most vulnerable areas of our body. To have someone touch them physically, can
be awkward. I love getting a pedicure and having my feet washed with hot hot water, but I tense up when they touch
touch them and scrub my feet. To wash someone's feet, there must be nothing between you......no unforgiveness, no
offenses, it's an act of love. It's an act of submission that I trust you and forgive anything that could come between us.
Yet, Jesus knew one of his disciples would betray him......just as we know that at some point in a relationship, we will
need to take a field trip to the cross and ask for forgiveness from one another. Washing feet, and serving one another
is not just a one time thing, it's a constant cleansing, to keep the love between us & Him pure and holy.
P- Father, let washing each others feet be something we do daily! Even if it is not physical, but in the spirit let us have a
heart attitude that would be of a pure and holy heart towards one another. Show us ways to serve and love one another,
that those who see, would know it was an act of love through you. Thank you for your teaching examples on how
we should be. Amen
Thursday August 11, 2011
Jer. 7-9, John 13
"serve on another"
S- John 13:10 Jesus answered, "A person who has had a bath needs only to wash his feet; his whole body is clean. And you are clean, thought not everyone of you."
O- Just before the Passover Feast with Jesus's disciples, Jesus prepares to wash their feet. This was an unheard of surprise to Peter, and he says......"No, you shall never wash my feet." Jesus replies, that if you don't allow me to wash you feet, you will have no part of me. Peter replies, then wash my hands, my head....all of me.
A- Jesus washed feet to be a teacher and Lord to show what we should do for one another, which is "serve one another."
Why our feet? Our feet are one of the most vulnerable areas of our body. To have someone touch them physically, can
be awkward. I love getting a pedicure and having my feet washed with hot hot water, but I tense up when they touch
touch them and scrub my feet. To wash someone's feet, there must be nothing between you......no unforgiveness, no
offenses, it's an act of love. It's an act of submission that I trust you and forgive anything that could come between us.
Yet, Jesus knew one of his disciples would betray him......just as we know that at some point in a relationship, we will
need to take a field trip to the cross and ask for forgiveness from one another. Washing feet, and serving one another
is not just a one time thing, it's a constant cleansing, to keep the love between us & Him pure and holy.
P- Father, let washing each others feet be something we do daily! Even if it is not physical, but in the spirit let us have a
heart attitude that would be of a pure and holy heart towards one another. Show us ways to serve and love one another,
that those who see, would know it was an act of love through you. Thank you for your teaching examples on how
we should be. Amen
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
WORSHIPING JESUS
Wednesday, August 10, 2011 - Jeremiah 5,6; John 12
S - John 12:43 ...for they loved human glory more than the glory of God.
O -- John is speaking of the Jewish leaders who believed in Jesus, but would not acknowledge their faith openly for fear of being kicked out of the synagogue.
A - I remember a time when I held back during worship in church. I am crazy in love with Jesus and sometimes when I worship I am so overwhelmed with the knowledge of who He is and what He's done that I am completely undone. I cry, I fall on my knees, I lift my arms to the King of Kings. But, I remember a time when I wanted to do this and I made myself sit tight because I was afraid of what others would think. But, eventually I realized that they were worshiping, too. They were not even looking at me; they were worshiping our King, too. Such freedom!
P - Thank You for the freedom to worship You in Spirit and in truth, Jesus. I love You so much!
S - John 12:43 ...for they loved human glory more than the glory of God.
O -- John is speaking of the Jewish leaders who believed in Jesus, but would not acknowledge their faith openly for fear of being kicked out of the synagogue.
A - I remember a time when I held back during worship in church. I am crazy in love with Jesus and sometimes when I worship I am so overwhelmed with the knowledge of who He is and what He's done that I am completely undone. I cry, I fall on my knees, I lift my arms to the King of Kings. But, I remember a time when I wanted to do this and I made myself sit tight because I was afraid of what others would think. But, eventually I realized that they were worshiping, too. They were not even looking at me; they were worshiping our King, too. Such freedom!
P - Thank You for the freedom to worship You in Spirit and in truth, Jesus. I love You so much!
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
I Like Martha!
by Cathy Weymouth
Tuesday 8/9/11 - Jer 3,4; John 11 - I Like Martha!
S - John 11:20-21 JBP When Martha heard that Jesus was on his way, she went out to meet him..."If only you had been here, Lord," said Martha, "my brother would never have died."
O - Martha had faith in Jesus and His protective power and authority. Martha often gets a bad rap because of the account in Luke 10 about her being busy cooking while her sister Mary was sitting at the Lord's feet listening to him.
A - I like Martha! She speaks her mind, clearly, directly and without inhibition! When Jesus instructs them to take away the stone blocking Lazarus' grave, she says in verse 39, "But Lord, he has been dead four days. By this time he will be decaying..." I applaud Martha today for her forthrightness and honesty. She loves Jesus and is completely real and transparent with him. Good for you, Martha! May we be like you in this way.
P - Father, we come to you boldly and honestly. I pray that we not hold back how we are feeling but are simply ourselves, true to our nature, being ourselves with you. Free us up, Lord! Amen.
Monday, August 8, 2011
Set Apart for God's Purpose
by Diana Kriesel
Monday, 8/7/11 – Jeremiah 1,2; John 10 – “Set Apart for God’s Purpose”
S= Scripture; O= Observation; A= Application; P= Prayer
S– Jeremiah 1:4-5 – “The word of the Lord came to me, saying, "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations."
O – God’s call to Jeremiah as a prophet contained a message designed to motivate him for his life assignment and for his destiny. God reveals to Jeremiah that His selection and call of him occurred before he had even been formed in the womb. The word “knew” speaks of intimacy, conveying the sense of close relationship. Before Jeremiah was conceived God had singled him out and sanctified him to be His spokesman to Israel.
A – There is a plan in the heart of God for each one of us concerning our calling and destiny even before we are conceived in our mother’s womb. His calling motivates us toward His purpose for our lives. If we will develop intimacy with Him, we will grow into what He has for us. Just as God had ‘marked’ Jeremiah for purpose, He has ‘marked’ each of us.
P – Lord, teach us to walk in deeper intimacy with You and take us into the revelation of Your Word over our lives so that we may discover the plan, purpose and calling for our lives. Teach us how to use the events, trials and tests of life to take us closer to You, rather than get distracted, detoured and delayed by them. Take us into Your plan for our lives, Lord!
Monday, 8/7/11 – Jeremiah 1,2; John 10 – “Set Apart for God’s Purpose”
S= Scripture; O= Observation; A= Application; P= Prayer
S– Jeremiah 1:4-5 – “The word of the Lord came to me, saying, "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations."
O – God’s call to Jeremiah as a prophet contained a message designed to motivate him for his life assignment and for his destiny. God reveals to Jeremiah that His selection and call of him occurred before he had even been formed in the womb. The word “knew” speaks of intimacy, conveying the sense of close relationship. Before Jeremiah was conceived God had singled him out and sanctified him to be His spokesman to Israel.
A – There is a plan in the heart of God for each one of us concerning our calling and destiny even before we are conceived in our mother’s womb. His calling motivates us toward His purpose for our lives. If we will develop intimacy with Him, we will grow into what He has for us. Just as God had ‘marked’ Jeremiah for purpose, He has ‘marked’ each of us.
P – Lord, teach us to walk in deeper intimacy with You and take us into the revelation of Your Word over our lives so that we may discover the plan, purpose and calling for our lives. Teach us how to use the events, trials and tests of life to take us closer to You, rather than get distracted, detoured and delayed by them. Take us into Your plan for our lives, Lord!
Friday, August 5, 2011
“TIMING IS EVERYTHING”
S=Scripture=Objective. A=Application, P=Prayer
S--John 7:6 “…the right time for me has not yet come.”
O--Jesus is being told that he should present himself at the Feast of The Tabernacles…that people needed to know who He was.
A--Jesus responds “…the right time for me has not yet come.” I have a lot to learn in this short scripture…the time for healing, stepping out in ministry, or giving a Word should always be in God’s timing. Sometimes I sense that God reveals something to me…or gives me a Word to speak to someone…I get excited and want to move immediately. I need to be sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit…because when I move in and with Him things happen. But when I move in my own timing I am sure to fail. Maybe God wanted me to prepare for that Ministry He is calling me to…or maybe the person that I have a Word for is not yet ready to receive it.
P--Lord sharpen my awareness of Your Spirit that I might be in tune and in step with You. I don’t want to run ahead of, or lag behind, I KNOW THAT TIMING IS EVERYTHING. Help me Lord to wait on You and to move with You.
S--John 7:6 “…the right time for me has not yet come.”
O--Jesus is being told that he should present himself at the Feast of The Tabernacles…that people needed to know who He was.
A--Jesus responds “…the right time for me has not yet come.” I have a lot to learn in this short scripture…the time for healing, stepping out in ministry, or giving a Word should always be in God’s timing. Sometimes I sense that God reveals something to me…or gives me a Word to speak to someone…I get excited and want to move immediately. I need to be sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit…because when I move in and with Him things happen. But when I move in my own timing I am sure to fail. Maybe God wanted me to prepare for that Ministry He is calling me to…or maybe the person that I have a Word for is not yet ready to receive it.
P--Lord sharpen my awareness of Your Spirit that I might be in tune and in step with You. I don’t want to run ahead of, or lag behind, I KNOW THAT TIMING IS EVERYTHING. Help me Lord to wait on You and to move with You.
Thursday, August 4, 2011
The lunch
Thursday August 4, 2011
S-Scripture O-Observation A-Application P-Prayer
2 Kings 22, 2 Chron 34, John 6
S-John 6:9 "Here is a boy with five small barley loaves and two small fish, but how far will they go among so many?
O- Jesus saw the crowd of people, over 5000 coming up the mountainside, and asked "where shall we buy bread for these people to eat?" This was only a test to Phillip. Phillip answered there is a boy here with a lunch. Jesus knew the boy would willing give up his lunch to share, and what HE was going to do to multiply it to have plenty for everyone. A miracle on the mountain.
A- This happens to me time and time again. I think I do not have enough food, or enough time to finish what needs to be done, and some how my time is more than enough, and my means are more than plenty to share. I am amazed that it was a child that was the only one who had a lunch and who was asked to share it. I wonder what his face looked like when Jesus took his lunch to share......I bet he was smiling when he saw what Jesus did. Just like we smile when Jesus takes something of ours and shares it with others for HIS glory.
P- Thank you Jesus that you give us more than enough. Please take whatever you want of mine and multiply it for your glory, to share with others. Thank you that your bread of life from Heaven, gives to us so that we may never grow hungry or thirsty. Amen
S-Scripture O-Observation A-Application P-Prayer
2 Kings 22, 2 Chron 34, John 6
S-John 6:9 "Here is a boy with five small barley loaves and two small fish, but how far will they go among so many?
O- Jesus saw the crowd of people, over 5000 coming up the mountainside, and asked "where shall we buy bread for these people to eat?" This was only a test to Phillip. Phillip answered there is a boy here with a lunch. Jesus knew the boy would willing give up his lunch to share, and what HE was going to do to multiply it to have plenty for everyone. A miracle on the mountain.
A- This happens to me time and time again. I think I do not have enough food, or enough time to finish what needs to be done, and some how my time is more than enough, and my means are more than plenty to share. I am amazed that it was a child that was the only one who had a lunch and who was asked to share it. I wonder what his face looked like when Jesus took his lunch to share......I bet he was smiling when he saw what Jesus did. Just like we smile when Jesus takes something of ours and shares it with others for HIS glory.
P- Thank you Jesus that you give us more than enough. Please take whatever you want of mine and multiply it for your glory, to share with others. Thank you that your bread of life from Heaven, gives to us so that we may never grow hungry or thirsty. Amen
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
JESUS ENCOUNTER
Wednesday, August 3, 2011 - Nahum 1-3; John 5
S - John 5:6 When Jesus saw him lying there and learned that he had been in this condition for a long time, he asked him, "Do you want to get well?"
O - Jesus asked the invalid if he desired to be healed, which probably sounded ridiculous to the man because he was obviously at the healing pool trying to be the first one in when the waters stirred.
A - The healings that happened at the pool came about by someone being the best, the fastest to get in the pool after the waters stirred. But Jesus let the man know that healing is not dependent on man and whether he has enough friends to get him into the pool. All one really needs is an encounter with Jesus. Don't blame others for where you are at in your life. Look upon Jesus and do what He says. Sometimes we rely so heavily on people to help us out of troubles that we forget from whom the help truly comes.
P - Lord, I thank You that all my help comes from You. Heal me, sanctify me, make me whole and holy, in Jesus' name I pray.
S - John 5:6 When Jesus saw him lying there and learned that he had been in this condition for a long time, he asked him, "Do you want to get well?"
O - Jesus asked the invalid if he desired to be healed, which probably sounded ridiculous to the man because he was obviously at the healing pool trying to be the first one in when the waters stirred.
A - The healings that happened at the pool came about by someone being the best, the fastest to get in the pool after the waters stirred. But Jesus let the man know that healing is not dependent on man and whether he has enough friends to get him into the pool. All one really needs is an encounter with Jesus. Don't blame others for where you are at in your life. Look upon Jesus and do what He says. Sometimes we rely so heavily on people to help us out of troubles that we forget from whom the help truly comes.
P - Lord, I thank You that all my help comes from You. Heal me, sanctify me, make me whole and holy, in Jesus' name I pray.
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Worshiping in Spirit and Truth
by Cathy Weymouth
Tuesday 8/2/11 2 Kings 21; 2 Chronicles 33; John 4 - Worshiping in Spirit and Truth
S - John 4:23-24 MSG, "It's who you are and the way you live that count before God. Your worship must engage your spirit in the pursuit of truth. That's the kind of people the Father is out looking for: those who are simply and honestly themselves before him in their worship. God is sheer being itself—Spirit. Those who worship him must do it out of their very being, their spirits, their true selves, in adoration."
O - We are called to worship God in the way we live, from within our spirits and engaging in truth. The term truth is also translated reality - the truth about God and who He is; the reality of our Savior and Father and Love.
A - I love this book, Destined to Reign, by Joseph Prince. I keep saying - we need a revelation of the cross, the finished work of Jesus. I am learning more about that through this book and other Grace teachings. Then when I think of Jesus, I see the reality of God's love - truth of the sacrifice, the fact that Jesus did it all and it's not my human effort that makes up the difference. My heart is filled with gratitude and the striving to make my way diminishes.
P - Lord, fill us with the truth of Your Grace, your love, your sacrifice. Then and only then can we worship in truth - seeing You for who You really are. May we be honest before you, real, not hiding our humanity but embracing it. We are mere humans, You are the Savior! And you did it ALL. Amen.
Tuesday 8/2/11 2 Kings 21; 2 Chronicles 33; John 4 - Worshiping in Spirit and Truth
S - John 4:23-24 MSG, "It's who you are and the way you live that count before God. Your worship must engage your spirit in the pursuit of truth. That's the kind of people the Father is out looking for: those who are simply and honestly themselves before him in their worship. God is sheer being itself—Spirit. Those who worship him must do it out of their very being, their spirits, their true selves, in adoration."
O - We are called to worship God in the way we live, from within our spirits and engaging in truth. The term truth is also translated reality - the truth about God and who He is; the reality of our Savior and Father and Love.
A - I love this book, Destined to Reign, by Joseph Prince. I keep saying - we need a revelation of the cross, the finished work of Jesus. I am learning more about that through this book and other Grace teachings. Then when I think of Jesus, I see the reality of God's love - truth of the sacrifice, the fact that Jesus did it all and it's not my human effort that makes up the difference. My heart is filled with gratitude and the striving to make my way diminishes.
P - Lord, fill us with the truth of Your Grace, your love, your sacrifice. Then and only then can we worship in truth - seeing You for who You really are. May we be honest before you, real, not hiding our humanity but embracing it. We are mere humans, You are the Savior! And you did it ALL. Amen.
Monday, August 1, 2011
Our Hope Comes From God
by Diana Kriesel
Monday, 8/1/11 – Isaiah 65,66; Psalm 62; John 3 – “Our Hope Comes from God”
S= Scripture; O= Observation; A= Application; P= Prayer
S– Psalm 62:6 – “Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from Him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress, I will not be shaken.”
O – The psalmist is reminding himself to trust in God, our only hope, our only source of salvation and strength. He declares that because of God’s great power and faithfulness, he will not be shaken or disturbed.
A – The language of this psalm moves us toward a greater confidence and certain conviction in God as the rock of our strength and our only refuge. Like the psalmist, we should stir ourselves to trust in God’s faithfulness. The Message translation says it this way: “He's the solid rock under my feet, breathing room for my soul, an impregnable castle: I'm set for life.” We give our soul breathing room by trusting God. When we trust, fear is expelled and faith has room to expand within our heart, mind and circumstance.
P – Lord, teach us to trust You and You alone. In spite of disappointments that crash in on us and unexpected crises that try to distract us, teach us to stir ourselves to find our rest and hope in You, for You are our rock and our salvation; You are our fortress and we will not be shaken.
Monday, 8/1/11 – Isaiah 65,66; Psalm 62; John 3 – “Our Hope Comes from God”
S= Scripture; O= Observation; A= Application; P= Prayer
S– Psalm 62:6 – “Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from Him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress, I will not be shaken.”
O – The psalmist is reminding himself to trust in God, our only hope, our only source of salvation and strength. He declares that because of God’s great power and faithfulness, he will not be shaken or disturbed.
A – The language of this psalm moves us toward a greater confidence and certain conviction in God as the rock of our strength and our only refuge. Like the psalmist, we should stir ourselves to trust in God’s faithfulness. The Message translation says it this way: “He's the solid rock under my feet, breathing room for my soul, an impregnable castle: I'm set for life.” We give our soul breathing room by trusting God. When we trust, fear is expelled and faith has room to expand within our heart, mind and circumstance.
P – Lord, teach us to trust You and You alone. In spite of disappointments that crash in on us and unexpected crises that try to distract us, teach us to stir ourselves to find our rest and hope in You, for You are our rock and our salvation; You are our fortress and we will not be shaken.
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