Tuesday, November 15th, 2011
Today's Passage> Nehemiah chapter 2
Memory Verse> 1 Corinthians 1: 27
In our society, there's this thing for celebrities that I just can't figure out. All a person has to do is become popular for any crazy old thing nowadays, and people fall all over each other just to be included in a group that gets to meet them. It started out with pop and movie stars, which seemed innocent enough. But in more recent years, the infatuation with celebrities has been expanded to criminals of every kind who peddle their wares on camera and do their best to teach the younger generation that sex, drugs and guns are the right kind of dream to aspire to.
Even in the Christian community, we pass on the same infatuation with stars to pastors and singers that are on television regularly. Believers will barely make it to church on a regular basis, but will pack out an arena to see a televangelist or gospel artist. It turns out that God, too, has a thing for famous people, although not in the way we think. God's agenda involves positioning those who represent Him next to people of very influential status. Here's how and why I believe He does this.
Bishop Ray Willis often says, "God's got this uncanny idea that it's all about Him.". This statement is true in that God wants His glory to be revealed in the most unlikely but prominent of places. HOW does He do this? Why, He's God, of course! He is more than capable of sending His ministering spirits to orchestrate moving us from one place to another until He has us exactly where He wants us. God did this with David, who was just a shepherd boy taking his brothers something to eat when he was thrust into the battle between the Israelites and Philistines. Esther wasn't sure she would ever be chosen from a long list of girls from prominent backgrounds, but her favor with the king paid off. Daniel and Joseph found themselves in similar positions, all of them having one thing in common with Nehemiah: they were all totally devoted to bringing God's will to pass.
God has a way of getting His will done by people who under normal circumstances would never dream of allowing it to happen. God has always wanted His will to prevail over that of people who think they are too powerful to need Him. That's why He uses the foolish things of the world to shame the wise. All Nehemiah was doing was being a cupbearer for the king in today's passage. All he had was a heart for God's city not to remain in ruins. And because of His heart, God allowed Him to be positioned among great men so that the city walls would be rebuilt. Don't despise the day of small beginnings, for you, too, are being positioned to walk in favor among great men for His glory. Just never lose your burden for God's heart, and never seek to please man rather than God. By the time all's said and done,you will be on your way to accomplishing something awesome for the Kingdom.
Prayer: Father, thank You for what You've ordained to accomplish in my life. I know You have a purpose for me, and so I release You to pour out Your favor in spite of my limitations. I let go of every doubt and ask that You get ALL the glory in my life. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Let the Humility Begin
Monday, November 14th, 2011
Today's Passage> Nehemiah chapter 1
Memory Verse> 2 Chronicles 7:14
Fasting and praying seems like a lost art in our churches nowadays. It's been cast aside along with services that were held just to "tarry before the Lord", as any saint who's at least 40 years old will tell you. While tarrying may seem to have no place in our fast-paced, "give me everything now" society, we have to admit that fasting and prayer can never be replaced with any more modern Christian practices if we want to walk in true power.
One of the things fasting does is draw us out of the realm of self and into the realm of kingdom. Only fasting moves us from thinking about what WE want and what WE need to thinking about others. In today's passage, Nehemiah heard about the condition of his homeland and how the walls were broken down. But only when Nehemiah decided to fast did his heart begin to soften concerning the news. Imagine how many disturbing stories we hear on the news or from people around us from day to day. We tend to shield ourselves from these heartbreaking details, which causes us to be de-sensitized to their impact. Only fasting can remind us that our lives are not about us, but that God needs us on the wall, interceding for others.
And that's where prayer comes in. Even if we're denying our flesh the things it craves, the real power comes only when we accompany fasting with prayer -- heartfelt, sincere prayer to the Father. I have found that I wasted quite a bit of time when I tried fasting but didn't do much praying. I pretty much stayed in the carnal realm, only going through the motions rather than crucifying my fleshly desires in anticipation of what God was going to do. So prayer is what turns the focused heart on not our will, but God's will for the situation that we're praying for. Nehemiah did not only complain about the plight of the Israelites, but asked God for His answer to the situation. He was able to ask for forgiveness for not only his immediate family, but for the children of Israel as a whole. And not only that, but he went through this process for several days rather than just one. I believe this is how He tapped into the power to begin the work that lay ahead of him and his people.
We can definitely use Nehemiah as an example of how fasting and prayer prepares us for total devotion to the work that God is calling us to do. Take a look around you. What has God made you sensitive to? Is the plight of the elderly bothersome to you? Young ladies who are not getting any support while they're carrying their babies? Understand that whatever it is, you'll just end up complaining about it if you don't invite God's intervention through prayer and fasting. Total devotion to the work God is calling us to do only comes as we yield our will to the Lord's. With patience and diligence to the process of dying to ourselves, we'll begin to see the Lord move on the behalf of those we are praying for-- so let the humility begin.
Prayer: Father, we've spent so much wasted time trying to ignore the heartache and brokenness around us. Our desire is truly to see Your will be done in our lives and that of others. We bow before You now and repent for the sins of our ancestors as well as ourselves. Please forgive us and begin to break our hearts with the things that break YOUR heart. We lift up our city and ask You to repair the breach, O Most High God. Only You can heal, save and set Your people free. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage> Nehemiah chapter 1
Memory Verse> 2 Chronicles 7:14
Fasting and praying seems like a lost art in our churches nowadays. It's been cast aside along with services that were held just to "tarry before the Lord", as any saint who's at least 40 years old will tell you. While tarrying may seem to have no place in our fast-paced, "give me everything now" society, we have to admit that fasting and prayer can never be replaced with any more modern Christian practices if we want to walk in true power.
One of the things fasting does is draw us out of the realm of self and into the realm of kingdom. Only fasting moves us from thinking about what WE want and what WE need to thinking about others. In today's passage, Nehemiah heard about the condition of his homeland and how the walls were broken down. But only when Nehemiah decided to fast did his heart begin to soften concerning the news. Imagine how many disturbing stories we hear on the news or from people around us from day to day. We tend to shield ourselves from these heartbreaking details, which causes us to be de-sensitized to their impact. Only fasting can remind us that our lives are not about us, but that God needs us on the wall, interceding for others.
And that's where prayer comes in. Even if we're denying our flesh the things it craves, the real power comes only when we accompany fasting with prayer -- heartfelt, sincere prayer to the Father. I have found that I wasted quite a bit of time when I tried fasting but didn't do much praying. I pretty much stayed in the carnal realm, only going through the motions rather than crucifying my fleshly desires in anticipation of what God was going to do. So prayer is what turns the focused heart on not our will, but God's will for the situation that we're praying for. Nehemiah did not only complain about the plight of the Israelites, but asked God for His answer to the situation. He was able to ask for forgiveness for not only his immediate family, but for the children of Israel as a whole. And not only that, but he went through this process for several days rather than just one. I believe this is how He tapped into the power to begin the work that lay ahead of him and his people.
We can definitely use Nehemiah as an example of how fasting and prayer prepares us for total devotion to the work that God is calling us to do. Take a look around you. What has God made you sensitive to? Is the plight of the elderly bothersome to you? Young ladies who are not getting any support while they're carrying their babies? Understand that whatever it is, you'll just end up complaining about it if you don't invite God's intervention through prayer and fasting. Total devotion to the work God is calling us to do only comes as we yield our will to the Lord's. With patience and diligence to the process of dying to ourselves, we'll begin to see the Lord move on the behalf of those we are praying for-- so let the humility begin.
Prayer: Father, we've spent so much wasted time trying to ignore the heartache and brokenness around us. Our desire is truly to see Your will be done in our lives and that of others. We bow before You now and repent for the sins of our ancestors as well as ourselves. Please forgive us and begin to break our hearts with the things that break YOUR heart. We lift up our city and ask You to repair the breach, O Most High God. Only You can heal, save and set Your people free. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Prayers That Prevail!
Sunday November 13, 2011
Today's Passage: Nehemiah 9 & 10
Heavenly Father, we'd like to first thank You for who You are. There's no one like You, Lord. Arise in us as we awaken to this new day. Let every heart beat for You alone; declaring Your Lordship and worth. We won't put anyone or anything before You. You are God and King, and we worship You today.
Father, we realize You are a covenant God. Your love for us goes beyond emotional bargains or vain agreements. Your promises are yea, and amen. Which means if we obey You, Your grace will fulfill every promise made to us. Every word You've spoken is full of life, favor, and blessing. All we need to do is honor the covenant we made with You.
We are not forsaken, nor are we are forgotten. However, Lord, the disobedience of our generation must end. Whereas You are a loving Father, we mustn't forget that You are ALSO King. Therefore, we must live our lives boldly, but carefully. We can't take this covenant lightly. We can't assume because of grace, we can live lives that reject You. As a matter of fact, we repent personally, and corporately for our lack of devotion. So please Lord, be merciful as our hearts turn back to you. From this point forward, our lives will be a reflection of Your word. The world will see that Your covenant with man still lives within the hearts of the totally devoted. We are the generation that will stand on Your word. We are the people that will honor this covenant. Be glorified Lord, in Jesus' name. Amen
Today's Passage: Nehemiah 9 & 10
Heavenly Father, we'd like to first thank You for who You are. There's no one like You, Lord. Arise in us as we awaken to this new day. Let every heart beat for You alone; declaring Your Lordship and worth. We won't put anyone or anything before You. You are God and King, and we worship You today.
Father, we realize You are a covenant God. Your love for us goes beyond emotional bargains or vain agreements. Your promises are yea, and amen. Which means if we obey You, Your grace will fulfill every promise made to us. Every word You've spoken is full of life, favor, and blessing. All we need to do is honor the covenant we made with You.
We are not forsaken, nor are we are forgotten. However, Lord, the disobedience of our generation must end. Whereas You are a loving Father, we mustn't forget that You are ALSO King. Therefore, we must live our lives boldly, but carefully. We can't take this covenant lightly. We can't assume because of grace, we can live lives that reject You. As a matter of fact, we repent personally, and corporately for our lack of devotion. So please Lord, be merciful as our hearts turn back to you. From this point forward, our lives will be a reflection of Your word. The world will see that Your covenant with man still lives within the hearts of the totally devoted. We are the generation that will stand on Your word. We are the people that will honor this covenant. Be glorified Lord, in Jesus' name. Amen
Show out Through Me, Lord!
Saturday, November 12th, 2011
Today's Passage> 1 Kings chapter 18
Memory Verses> 1 Kings 18: 36-37
Look throughout the Bible, and you'll see it. There's a specific trend that shows how God responds to total devotion from His children. He responded to Abraham with protection over him and his family as they made the move from his homeland to a totally new place God had called him to. He responded to Noah's obedience by giving him the strength to build a huge boat for himself, his family, and two of every species of animal, then releasing rain that flooded the whole earth. God's Word says He looks to and fro about the whole earth, seeking to whom He can show Himself faithful.
When God brought His people, the children of Israel, out of Egypt, He was simply showing out. He wore down the Egyptians with the various plagues until they finally gave in and let the Israelites go. Can you imagine what a spectacular display God orchestrated when they got to the Red Sea? I would've loved to have been there to watch the Egyptians pursue them, then realize they had walked into a watery trap that would be their grave. But the thing that amazes me about some people is that, even as flamboyant as God has been from one generation to another to let those who love Him know how He feels about them, there are still some who remain aloof from His reach and find themselves unsure about whether to serve Him or not.
That's why I absolutely love the way Elijah showed confidence in His God. He basically issued a super challenge to all those who were still straddling the fence, telling them that God was about to manifest Himself, and they needed to make up their minds who they were going to serve. And did God show Himself or what? He responded to Elijah's boasting in Him with fire on an altar that had been doused with water. It would again have been amazing to be an eyewitness to something so spectacular. And yet, it makes me wonder: do we really need God to perform tricks just to get His people to worship Him? I noticed in the passage that only AFTER the miracle by fire did the Israelites who were there bow down and acknowledge God's greatness.
We as believers must be mindful of the mentality that we'll hold off on our worship until God does something big to wow us. Yes, God WILL show Himself strong because that's Who He is. But notice that Elijah's show was to expose the UNGODLY to the terrible power and might of the Most High God. It was not meant to convince those who were already believers that He was worthy of their praise. That's what ended up taking place. But if we don't develop a diehard, totally devoted heart towards our God, we'll only be on the outside looking in, watching as He uses others to display His greatness instead of us. I don't know about you, but I'd rather be on the convincing end of things instead of having to BE convinced over and over due to shaky faith. Gird yourself, people of God. Stand on His Word and let Him respond with a miracle through you.
Prayer: Father, You have shown me throughout my life that You are truly a great God. I'm persuaded that there is nothing impossible for You. I offer myself to be used by You to display Your greatness through me whenever and wherever You so desire. May the world see and bow down in awe of You. Show out through me, Lord! In Jesus' mighty Name, Amen.
Today's Passage> 1 Kings chapter 18
Memory Verses> 1 Kings 18: 36-37
Look throughout the Bible, and you'll see it. There's a specific trend that shows how God responds to total devotion from His children. He responded to Abraham with protection over him and his family as they made the move from his homeland to a totally new place God had called him to. He responded to Noah's obedience by giving him the strength to build a huge boat for himself, his family, and two of every species of animal, then releasing rain that flooded the whole earth. God's Word says He looks to and fro about the whole earth, seeking to whom He can show Himself faithful.
When God brought His people, the children of Israel, out of Egypt, He was simply showing out. He wore down the Egyptians with the various plagues until they finally gave in and let the Israelites go. Can you imagine what a spectacular display God orchestrated when they got to the Red Sea? I would've loved to have been there to watch the Egyptians pursue them, then realize they had walked into a watery trap that would be their grave. But the thing that amazes me about some people is that, even as flamboyant as God has been from one generation to another to let those who love Him know how He feels about them, there are still some who remain aloof from His reach and find themselves unsure about whether to serve Him or not.
That's why I absolutely love the way Elijah showed confidence in His God. He basically issued a super challenge to all those who were still straddling the fence, telling them that God was about to manifest Himself, and they needed to make up their minds who they were going to serve. And did God show Himself or what? He responded to Elijah's boasting in Him with fire on an altar that had been doused with water. It would again have been amazing to be an eyewitness to something so spectacular. And yet, it makes me wonder: do we really need God to perform tricks just to get His people to worship Him? I noticed in the passage that only AFTER the miracle by fire did the Israelites who were there bow down and acknowledge God's greatness.
We as believers must be mindful of the mentality that we'll hold off on our worship until God does something big to wow us. Yes, God WILL show Himself strong because that's Who He is. But notice that Elijah's show was to expose the UNGODLY to the terrible power and might of the Most High God. It was not meant to convince those who were already believers that He was worthy of their praise. That's what ended up taking place. But if we don't develop a diehard, totally devoted heart towards our God, we'll only be on the outside looking in, watching as He uses others to display His greatness instead of us. I don't know about you, but I'd rather be on the convincing end of things instead of having to BE convinced over and over due to shaky faith. Gird yourself, people of God. Stand on His Word and let Him respond with a miracle through you.
Prayer: Father, You have shown me throughout my life that You are truly a great God. I'm persuaded that there is nothing impossible for You. I offer myself to be used by You to display Your greatness through me whenever and wherever You so desire. May the world see and bow down in awe of You. Show out through me, Lord! In Jesus' mighty Name, Amen.
COLD Or HOT?
Friday, November 16th, 2011
Today's Passage> Revelation 3: 14-22
Memory Verse> Rev. 3: 16
God is a Spirit, but He is strong enough to make it abundantly clear that He hates double-mindedness with a passion. And personally, I agree with Him. Whenever I read this passage, I try to put myself in His place and see what it would be like to be Him. I take a moment and remember the whole idea of being able to not only see everyone, but also hear their thoughts. Can you imagine eavesdropping on six billion conversations in a million different languages? "Evan Almighty" doesn't even come close to describing it.
I guess that's why I totally understand God's stance on the issue of double- mindedness. In His own words, He pretty much tells the church, "I'd respect you more if you were either hot or cold." at least that way, He'd know where each of us stands. You can see passion coming a mile away. It's easy to see when someone is head-over-heels in love with something or someone. There's no doubt in that person's mind from one moment to the next what they're planning to do. They already know going in what sacrifices have to be made, and they're prepared to make them with no turning back.
At the risk of sounding superficial, I don't know of a single diehard fan of any football or basketball team that has a problem with being double-minded. I've seen two Seminoles fans in particular just skip the whole team apparel altogether and spray themselves from head to toe in team colors. There's no way you'd get one of those fanatics to turn their backs on their favorite team-- even when things didn't go right on a given week or even a given season. And you certainly wouldn't dare suggest that they root for a rival team just because their own team may be down. On the other hand, someone like me who doesn't really have that diehard spirit where sports is concerned needs help seeing what all the fuss is about. It'd be pretty hard to attend a game to watch a losing team play even in the nicest weather (unless there were something in it for me afterwards-- like dinner, for example).
Now, imagine the God of this universe, who made such sacrifices for all of us, having to hear us bellyache and complain about His care for us just because we may have to walk through hard times. I see now more than ever before why He'd rather have a group of cold, heartless people around than a bunch of timid, apathetic and unsure believers. At least He knows where they stand with Him. Now, let me qualify this by saying He loves us all unconditionally. Nothing we can say or do will ever stop His love from flowing towards us. But if all WE can offer in the form of devotion is our half-hearted attempts to serve God, He'd much rather we take it back. It has to be either cold or hot as far as our devotion goes. What's YOUR temperature?
Prayer: Father, when I compare my sacrifice to Yours, I realize how little I have to sacrifice for Your kingdom. I want to thank You that by Your grace I CAN give my all, and do it with- holding nothing. May my heart and life bring You joy daily, and set a positive example for others to follow in You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage> Revelation 3: 14-22
Memory Verse> Rev. 3: 16
God is a Spirit, but He is strong enough to make it abundantly clear that He hates double-mindedness with a passion. And personally, I agree with Him. Whenever I read this passage, I try to put myself in His place and see what it would be like to be Him. I take a moment and remember the whole idea of being able to not only see everyone, but also hear their thoughts. Can you imagine eavesdropping on six billion conversations in a million different languages? "Evan Almighty" doesn't even come close to describing it.
I guess that's why I totally understand God's stance on the issue of double- mindedness. In His own words, He pretty much tells the church, "I'd respect you more if you were either hot or cold." at least that way, He'd know where each of us stands. You can see passion coming a mile away. It's easy to see when someone is head-over-heels in love with something or someone. There's no doubt in that person's mind from one moment to the next what they're planning to do. They already know going in what sacrifices have to be made, and they're prepared to make them with no turning back.
At the risk of sounding superficial, I don't know of a single diehard fan of any football or basketball team that has a problem with being double-minded. I've seen two Seminoles fans in particular just skip the whole team apparel altogether and spray themselves from head to toe in team colors. There's no way you'd get one of those fanatics to turn their backs on their favorite team-- even when things didn't go right on a given week or even a given season. And you certainly wouldn't dare suggest that they root for a rival team just because their own team may be down. On the other hand, someone like me who doesn't really have that diehard spirit where sports is concerned needs help seeing what all the fuss is about. It'd be pretty hard to attend a game to watch a losing team play even in the nicest weather (unless there were something in it for me afterwards-- like dinner, for example).
Now, imagine the God of this universe, who made such sacrifices for all of us, having to hear us bellyache and complain about His care for us just because we may have to walk through hard times. I see now more than ever before why He'd rather have a group of cold, heartless people around than a bunch of timid, apathetic and unsure believers. At least He knows where they stand with Him. Now, let me qualify this by saying He loves us all unconditionally. Nothing we can say or do will ever stop His love from flowing towards us. But if all WE can offer in the form of devotion is our half-hearted attempts to serve God, He'd much rather we take it back. It has to be either cold or hot as far as our devotion goes. What's YOUR temperature?
Prayer: Father, when I compare my sacrifice to Yours, I realize how little I have to sacrifice for Your kingdom. I want to thank You that by Your grace I CAN give my all, and do it with- holding nothing. May my heart and life bring You joy daily, and set a positive example for others to follow in You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
It's Just the S.O.P.!!!!!
Thursday, November 10th, 2011
Today's Passage: Daniel chapter 3
Memory Verse> Dan. 3: 17-18
News stories just like this one have been the subject of discussion and debate for the past two weeks or so. A Baptist minister, who has prayed at the flagpole of a school in Green Cove Springs for more than ten years, suddenly was told he could not continue to do so by the principal. In another incident, a prayer that ended "in Jesus' Name" was challenged by a young atheist who opposed the right to call on God at a school game. More and more frequently, those who are set apart as believers have to make a stand against the antiChrist spirit that is in operation in this world.
But for those believers who just might be wrestling with a bit of uncertainty concerning whether or not it's really that serious, and whether or not to believe that we have to go to that extent just to show that we have faith in God, it's necessary to go back to the Word for a lesson in just how the world reacts to us. In Daniel chapter 3, you'll find an example of opposition to righteous people. It is a testament to the fact that the antiChrist spirit has been in operation as long as faith has. It's amazing to me how, with all the different beliefs in Babylon, only the children of Israel were pinpointed as the ones that were disobedient to Nebuchadnezzar's ruling about the worshipping of the golden image.
Fast-forward to today. With all the varying beliefs that exist in the great United States, why is stopping Christian believers from exercising their faith so important to certain people? Don't you find it a tad bit odd that the only nation on the surface of this earth that has made itself a place of refuge to so many cultures and creeds is giving up its original Christian foundation in favor of those who stand for other things besides the One True God? Well, this should not come as a surprise. At the root of all of this upheaval is the basic test from the kingdom of darkness to see whether those who believe REALLY believe as they profess to. The enemy wants to know if the church will give up its faith by just rolling over and playing dead, allowing all kinds of laws to be put in place that oppress and prevent us from being able to express our devotion to Jehovah God.
And that is why we must regard this opposition as merely the enemy's "S.O.P." --standard operating procedure -- not to be ignored by any means, but also not to be feared. All God is requiring from us is that we stand and resist him, and he will ultimately flee. Every knee has been ordained to bow to no-one other than the Most High God, Creator of heaven and earth. But if WE are more afraid of the opposition than God, and offer no resistance, we will be renounced at the day of judgment. Stand firm, men, women,and young people of God. Read the way Daniel and his boys handled "the test". They declared that they would stand for God even if it cost them their lives. We all must search our hearts and ask ourselves the tough question. Is this faith we proclaim worth standing for even to the death? Because if it isn't, we certainly won't live it out effectively. We will be able to convince no-one -- least of all ourselves -- that God is truly Who He says He is. But oh, how powerful the witness is when we pass the test! It's not us who go to bed at night wondering whether it's really worth it to say there's no God. And eventually, when we all stand before Him, there will be none who WILL be able to say they never heard of the good news. So stand tall, even if it means a fiery furnace. God knows how to deliver His totally devoted and create converts out of even the most hard-hearted people. Just ask Nebuchadnezzar...
Prayer: Father, You are so awesome! It's a privilege and an honor to live for You. Your Presence in my life has made such a difference. I offer myself now as a sacrifice to show those who dare oppose You that You're worth living and dying for. You've made such a precious sacrifice for me that I dare to declare I will live and die for You. To live is Christ, and to die is gain. May those who read this today be filled with a passion to allow You to make their lives mean something for the rest of their days. In the Name of Jesus we pray, Amen.
Today's Passage: Daniel chapter 3
Memory Verse> Dan. 3: 17-18
News stories just like this one have been the subject of discussion and debate for the past two weeks or so. A Baptist minister, who has prayed at the flagpole of a school in Green Cove Springs for more than ten years, suddenly was told he could not continue to do so by the principal. In another incident, a prayer that ended "in Jesus' Name" was challenged by a young atheist who opposed the right to call on God at a school game. More and more frequently, those who are set apart as believers have to make a stand against the antiChrist spirit that is in operation in this world.
But for those believers who just might be wrestling with a bit of uncertainty concerning whether or not it's really that serious, and whether or not to believe that we have to go to that extent just to show that we have faith in God, it's necessary to go back to the Word for a lesson in just how the world reacts to us. In Daniel chapter 3, you'll find an example of opposition to righteous people. It is a testament to the fact that the antiChrist spirit has been in operation as long as faith has. It's amazing to me how, with all the different beliefs in Babylon, only the children of Israel were pinpointed as the ones that were disobedient to Nebuchadnezzar's ruling about the worshipping of the golden image.
Fast-forward to today. With all the varying beliefs that exist in the great United States, why is stopping Christian believers from exercising their faith so important to certain people? Don't you find it a tad bit odd that the only nation on the surface of this earth that has made itself a place of refuge to so many cultures and creeds is giving up its original Christian foundation in favor of those who stand for other things besides the One True God? Well, this should not come as a surprise. At the root of all of this upheaval is the basic test from the kingdom of darkness to see whether those who believe REALLY believe as they profess to. The enemy wants to know if the church will give up its faith by just rolling over and playing dead, allowing all kinds of laws to be put in place that oppress and prevent us from being able to express our devotion to Jehovah God.
And that is why we must regard this opposition as merely the enemy's "S.O.P." --standard operating procedure -- not to be ignored by any means, but also not to be feared. All God is requiring from us is that we stand and resist him, and he will ultimately flee. Every knee has been ordained to bow to no-one other than the Most High God, Creator of heaven and earth. But if WE are more afraid of the opposition than God, and offer no resistance, we will be renounced at the day of judgment. Stand firm, men, women,and young people of God. Read the way Daniel and his boys handled "the test". They declared that they would stand for God even if it cost them their lives. We all must search our hearts and ask ourselves the tough question. Is this faith we proclaim worth standing for even to the death? Because if it isn't, we certainly won't live it out effectively. We will be able to convince no-one -- least of all ourselves -- that God is truly Who He says He is. But oh, how powerful the witness is when we pass the test! It's not us who go to bed at night wondering whether it's really worth it to say there's no God. And eventually, when we all stand before Him, there will be none who WILL be able to say they never heard of the good news. So stand tall, even if it means a fiery furnace. God knows how to deliver His totally devoted and create converts out of even the most hard-hearted people. Just ask Nebuchadnezzar...
Prayer: Father, You are so awesome! It's a privilege and an honor to live for You. Your Presence in my life has made such a difference. I offer myself now as a sacrifice to show those who dare oppose You that You're worth living and dying for. You've made such a precious sacrifice for me that I dare to declare I will live and die for You. To live is Christ, and to die is gain. May those who read this today be filled with a passion to allow You to make their lives mean something for the rest of their days. In the Name of Jesus we pray, Amen.
Be the Tree!
Wednesday November 9, 2011
Today's Passage: Psalms 1
Memory Verse: Psalms 1:1
What is the key to keeping oneself totally devoted to God in spite of the double-mindedness that we see around us? The key to remaining totally devoted to God is being rooted and grounded in His word. Simple, huh? To fully understand this point, let's look at the opposite side of things.
In Psalms 1, the Bible says we'll be rewarded for not walking in the "counsel of the unGodly". UnGodly counsel is the seat of double-mindedness. It creeps into or minds when we're in trouble, or scared. Its origin can be tracked to our upbringing (yep, momma and auntie 'nem), past experiences, and friends or co-workers. Over time, it attaches itself to our souls (the place where we make decisions) and becomes the staple by which we live. Then we meet Jesus. And after experiencing His unfailing love, we decide to live totally devoted to Him. However, we often forget to throw out all those unGodly belief systems we held inside us. We're often reluctant to confront the fact that they in fact caused us to 'stand in the way of sinners, or sit in the seat of the scornful'. What results is this new creation with a hint of the old nature hidden inside. We're driven to hold on to it just in case "God fails us". But total devotion requires us to get rid of the unGodly counsel. At the end of the day, it only leads us right back to old mindsets and habits. It's kinda funny. In my experience, people always tell me how hard it is to accept Jesus as their Savior. Truth is, though, I didn't have as much difficulty accepting Jesus as I did denying myself. So like many, my double-mindedness nearly became my undoing.
In conclusion, this day may present the opportunity to make an important decision. On one side, the word of the Lord will knock at your heart, ready to inoculate you with truth. On the other, there'll be the fear-fed advice that only makes "sense", not truth. Which will you choose? My best advice would be to not ask your flesh, or comfort zone. They always appeal to YOUR will. Best practice is to decide now. Decide to choose God's word before you get to that crossroad. Be like that "planted" tree, bringing forth fruit in its season. The tree isn't double-minded, so it prospers, and if you follow suit, so will you.
Prayer: Gracious Father, Your glory is everlasting. I'm thankful I have Your word to guide me through this life. My prayer today is that You will deliver me from myself. The more "I" exist, the less of You I have. So, I give myself away so You can use me! Now, take me as Your own, and I'll give You praise, in Jesus' name. Amen.
Today's Passage: Psalms 1
Memory Verse: Psalms 1:1
What is the key to keeping oneself totally devoted to God in spite of the double-mindedness that we see around us? The key to remaining totally devoted to God is being rooted and grounded in His word. Simple, huh? To fully understand this point, let's look at the opposite side of things.
In Psalms 1, the Bible says we'll be rewarded for not walking in the "counsel of the unGodly". UnGodly counsel is the seat of double-mindedness. It creeps into or minds when we're in trouble, or scared. Its origin can be tracked to our upbringing (yep, momma and auntie 'nem), past experiences, and friends or co-workers. Over time, it attaches itself to our souls (the place where we make decisions) and becomes the staple by which we live. Then we meet Jesus. And after experiencing His unfailing love, we decide to live totally devoted to Him. However, we often forget to throw out all those unGodly belief systems we held inside us. We're often reluctant to confront the fact that they in fact caused us to 'stand in the way of sinners, or sit in the seat of the scornful'. What results is this new creation with a hint of the old nature hidden inside. We're driven to hold on to it just in case "God fails us". But total devotion requires us to get rid of the unGodly counsel. At the end of the day, it only leads us right back to old mindsets and habits. It's kinda funny. In my experience, people always tell me how hard it is to accept Jesus as their Savior. Truth is, though, I didn't have as much difficulty accepting Jesus as I did denying myself. So like many, my double-mindedness nearly became my undoing.
In conclusion, this day may present the opportunity to make an important decision. On one side, the word of the Lord will knock at your heart, ready to inoculate you with truth. On the other, there'll be the fear-fed advice that only makes "sense", not truth. Which will you choose? My best advice would be to not ask your flesh, or comfort zone. They always appeal to YOUR will. Best practice is to decide now. Decide to choose God's word before you get to that crossroad. Be like that "planted" tree, bringing forth fruit in its season. The tree isn't double-minded, so it prospers, and if you follow suit, so will you.
Prayer: Gracious Father, Your glory is everlasting. I'm thankful I have Your word to guide me through this life. My prayer today is that You will deliver me from myself. The more "I" exist, the less of You I have. So, I give myself away so You can use me! Now, take me as Your own, and I'll give You praise, in Jesus' name. Amen.
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