DAVID

He did evil in the eyes of the LORD. Nevertheless, because of the covenant the LORD had made with David, the LORD was not willing to destroy the house of David. 2 Chronicles 21:6B-7A

Jehoram was king over Judah for eight years. To secure his kingship, he murdered his own brothers. He did not lead the nation to follow God, and things did not go well for Judah while Jehoram was on the throne.

Certainly, God was not pleased. He intervened to shorten Jerhoram’s reign, but God still allowed Jehoram’s family line to continue to rule the nation.

At times, God’s patience with people falls into the category of astonishing. Because of His promise to David—“his throne will be established forever” (1 Chronicles 17)—God did not prevent Jehoram’s son from becoming king after Jehoram’s death. David’s line continued.

One man’s devotion to God was a source of blessing to his descendants for generations. David was that man.

Can I have that kind of impact upon my child’s children, and their offspring? It all depends on my relationship to the Father.

Lord, who am I that You have allowed me to know You? You are my Savior. Take the devotion of my heart another step closer to You today. Make me a man after Your own heart.

Grace to you,
Jim

Turn Your Eyes Upon God

"O our God, will you not judge them? For we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon you." 2 Chronicles 20:12

Have you every felt like you were in an impossible situation? That is exactly how Jehoshaphat felt when three powerful armies were marching against him and the people of Judah. But with God on his side Jehoshaphat did not feel hopeless. He prayed to God, "We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon you." And God came through big time! Without the army of Judah having to fire a single arrow or swing a single sword God routed their enemies. (Click here to read the whole exciting story.)

I cannot tell you that the results will always be as dramatic in your case but I can tell you that God will always come through for His people who trust in Him. If only we can learn to look to God with the honest confession, "We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon you." When our eyes are fixed on Him in prayer He will guide us through our difficulty and into His victory.

Father, You are a great God and Your works are wonderful! Help me to learn to lift my eyes to You and trust You in times of overwhelming victory as Jehoshaphat did.

I'm praying for you.
Pastor Mark

Selective Hearing

“There is still one prophet through whom we can inquire of the LORD, but I hate him because he never prophesies anything good about me, but always bad. He is Micaiah son of Imlah.” - 2 Chronicles 18:7

Ahab did not want to consult Micaiah, and he didn't hide the reason why he didn't want to ask him either. Micaiah was a godly prophet and when he spoke for God it often went against the king's wishes. So Ahab would seek counsel from his 400 prophets because he knew that they would tell him what he wanted to hear. They were "Yes Men." Micaiah was not, he told Ahab of a vision he had that prophesied Israel's defeat and Ahab's death. (Definitely not the news he wanted to hear). Micaiah even told Ahab that God was using his prophets to trick him into a battle he would loose. But Ahab already had his mind. So they went to battle and lost, and Ahab was killed.

It does us no good to seek godly wisdom or hear godly counsel if we've already made up our minds about what we want to do. So when you pray, when you ask Christian brothers and sisters for advice and when you read the Word or listen to it being taught make sure that you are open to hearing the things God wants to tell you. Otherwise you might miss the warning like Ahab.

Father give me a teachable spirit. Help me to humble myself and trust in your wisdom. Lord, I lay down my own rights, my ambitions, my knowledge and my wisdom. Help me to submit to your will as you reveal it to me.

By His grace,

Matt

Repentance

"The rest of mankind that were not killed by the plagues still did not repent..." Revelation 9:20

Repentance is the choice between death and life. In the end times some when presented with the opportunity to repent of sin and turn to God will choose death rather than life, judgement rather than salvation. The hardness of a human heart filled with pride and rebellion toward God is baffling. They are so blinded by sin that they will not see that true life is found in turning to God alone.

Enough about them. What about us? We repented in the past and are assured that we have life in Christ but what is the current condition of our heart toward God? Are you humble and responsive to God and His Word? Or is there some point at which you have become resistant and rebellious?

Father, it is easy for me to see and condemn the harness in others but not so easy to see it in my own life. Search me and bring to light any point of resistance toward Your word and work in my life. Lead me to repentance and life.

I'm praying for you.
Pastor Mark

FOCUS

After Rehoboam’s position as king was established and he had become strong, he and all Israel with him abandoned the law of the LORD. 2 Chronicles 12:1

King David spent his whole life seeking after God. His son, Solomon, began his rule with a focus on serving God, but drifted away later in life. And Solomon’s son, Rehoboam, turned away from God after only three years as king.

It’s so easy to let go of God when we feel that life is under control.

Perhaps—as soon as he felt his position was secure—Rehoboam felt he did not require God’s help any more. Whatever the reason, we can see that Rehoboam did not truly value his relationship with God. The inclination of his heart was revealed by his actions, and as the king goes, so goes the kingdom. Because Rehoboam abandoned God, the people followed right behind him.

Let's not fault Rehoboam entirely. Solomon did not exactly pave the way for Rehoboam to desire God in his life. The consequences of Solomon's disobedience planted a seed that grew into a tree which bore bad fruit.

Rehoboam lost sight of his God-given responsibility to those around him. Instead of keeping his focus upon God, it seems that his attention turned toward himself. He began to see the world through his own eyes—no longer considering God’s vantage point.

“In all your ways acknowledge Him” (Rehoboam’s father would have said in his earlier years). So, not only does my relationship with God make all the difference in my life, it also makes a difference in the lives of those around me with whom I have influence—my spouse, child, grandkids, friends. Only God has life under control. There’s no reason to let go of Him.

Father, whether today turns out to be pleasant or difficult, I trust You because You have all things under control. Because of this, all praise and honor belongs to You.

Grace to you,
Jim

Glorious God

"At once I was in the Spirit, and there before me was a throne in heaven with someone sitting on it. And the one who sat there had the appearance of jasper and carnelian. A rainbow, resembling an emerald, encircled the throne." Revelation 4:2-3

John was allowed to see a magnificent vision of God. Once you have seen God how do you describe the indescribable to those who have not seen Him? This was John's challenge. He sought for the best words to describe the glory. Striking and costly jewels and radiant light were as close as he could come to communicating the glory of the holy, eternal, almighty God on His throne in heaven.

No doubt every human word is insufficient to describe God's glory and every created thing used in comparison to the Creator will ultimately fall short. But even though God is more than words or images can communicate if we do not think on God's greatness as far as our minds and words can stretch we will have far too low a view of God. Contemplate the greatness of His glory as John presents it to us in this chapter. Contemplate His glory until you are overwhelmed with His greatness. Then do the best you can to tell others what You have seen and so make His glory known.

Father, stretch the limits of my mind and vocabulary so that I may more fully know the unknowable and describe the indescribable magnificence of Your glory.

I'm praying for you.
Pastor Mark

YES

“But will God really dwell on earth with humans? The heavens, even the highest heavens, cannot contain you. How much less this temple I have built!” 2 Chronicles 6:18

We’re currently in the season of Advent, so I perceived King Solomon’s question differently than did the people he was addressing—but in either case, the answer is “Yes!”

For King Solomon and his audience, the setting is a grand religious ceremony: it’s the dedication of the magnificent temple Solomon has just completed for God—in other words, God’s house. Solomon’s speech for this occasion is well crafted. His question is rhetorical, emphasizing the wonderful truth that the God who created everything (and who has a purpose for His creation) has chosen to be with His people—to be known by them.

Back to Advent.

Yes, God really did dwell on earth with humans—and as a human. The highest heavens cannot contain Him, yet God was able to fit all of Himself into just one body!

If you’re trying to imagine the physical transformation in size (How did He do that?), remember that He came as a newborn. If you’re wondering at the reason (Why did He do that?), consider that He chose to be born in a less than desirable place and time: a stable in winter, an insignificant village in a primitive era, troubled Israel in the days of the Roman Empire.

God is consistently Himself. The wonderful truth remains that the God who created everything (and who has a purpose for His creation) has chosen to be with His people—to be known by them.

Father, I am so amazed at Who You Are. I am so grateful that You enable us to know You as God and Savior, and I thank You that now Your Spirit is with us. Bless this day that I may know and love You more completely.

Grace to you,
Jim

Seeking His Presence

"Then the temple of the LORD was filled with a cloud, and the priests could not perform their service because of the cloud, for the glory of the LORD filled the temple of God."
2 Chronicles 5:13b-14

The temple Solomon built was a marvelous structure. It took seven years to complete. It was an architectural marvel built with materials worth millions of dollars. In addition to the building the priests were well organized to lead the services of worship within the temple. But the most magnificent feature of the temple was not to be found in the architecture, materials, organization, or services. The most magnificent feature was the manifest presence of God in the cloud of glory. A marvelous building without God's presence would have been a hollow monument. A well planned and well led service without the presence of God would have been ultimately an empty exercise. It was the presence of God that made all the difference.

There is always a danger that our emphasis will be misdirected to buildings, plans, organization, and projects rather than to seeking the presence of the living God. We can have beautiful buildings and well-run ministries and smooth services but if God is not present what does it really matter? We must not be content with fine facilities, good organization, and well planned services. We need to hunger for the presence of the living God and seek after Him with all our hearts.

Father, help me not be content with the trappings of church and Christianity without Your burning presence in my life and our church. Fill me with a hunger that will be satisfied with nothing less than Your manifest presence. Help me to seek You earnestly today.

I'm praying for you.
Pastor Mark

Rescue Mission

Be merciful to those who doubt; ²³ save others by snatching them from the fire; - Jude 22-23

These verses offer valuable instruction about how we should relate to people who may be far from God. When someone is uncertain about what they should believe we should patiently love and pray for them to know the truth of Jesus, not grow frustrated with them because of their unwillingness to commit their lives to Christ.

The word picture provided in the first half of verse 23 is captivating. Can you imagine yourself reaching out to snatch someone from imminent doom? That's what happens when God uses us to bring someone to faith in Christ. But what if we don't "snatch" them? What happens then? The reality of hell is very real. "Snatching" requires action. We can help remove people from the path that leads to destruction, but we have to get up and do something.

Lord, I know that you've sent me on a rescue mission. You want to use me to save people from hell. Show me what I can do today to help "snatch" someone from the fire.

By His grace,

Matt

Walking in the Truth

"I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth." 3 John 1:4

We all know the joy of seeing our children walk in the way we taught them and the agony of seeing them stray. The apostle John felt this joy over the progress of His spiritual children in the truth. He also felt the agony of seeing some of them go astray (see verse 9 concerning Diotrephes).

Who are our spiritual children? Who is it that can bring us great joy or deep agony through their faithfulness or lack of it to the truth? May God give us many spiritual children and a commitment to help them progress in the truth.

Also, consider that this verse not only reflects the heart of John for his children but the heart of God for His children. We bring God joy or agony by our walk. May our lives bring Him joy today as we walk in the truth.

Father, keep me in the truth so that my walk may bring You joy today and use me to help others progress in the truth.

I'm praying for you.
Pastor Mark

God is our Resource

"David also said to Solomon his son, 'Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you until all the work for the service of the temple of the LORD is finished.'" 1 Chronicles 29:20

Building a temple for the LORD had been David's dream but God assigned the task to Solomon. So David made the necessary preparations for the building and then charged Solomon to faithfully carry out the work to completion. David reminded his son that his most important resource for completing the task was God himself. God would faithfully be with Solomon enabling him to complete his assigned task.

Our assignment from God may be different than Solomon's but our God is the same. He is the God who is with us and who will not forsake us. He is the God who enables us to complete whatever task He may assign to us. What is your assignment from God? Is it to speak to someone about Christ or to lead your family or to fulfill a ministry role in the church? Whatever God calls you to do He will faithfully enable you to do. Lean hard on Him and He will not fail you.

Father, I thank You that You are my God as You were David's God and Solomon's God. You are unchanging and unfailing--the same yesterday, today, and forever. Help me to clearly understand my assignment from You and to carry it out with complete faith in Your faithfulness.

I'm praying for you.
Pastor Mark

A Mighty Savior

. . . The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil’s work. - 1 John 3:8

In this verse we get a glimpse into the unseen. There is an ongoing spiritual battle being fought between God and Satan, and now our lives are the battlefield. God has an enemy - Satan - who introduced sin into the world. The devil is working vigilantly to corrupt God's creation and lead people into darkness. But Jesus is our Savior. He is the hero of this epic story, and he came into the world to set sinners free - to redeem what Satan has worked so hard to corrupt.

And in tomorrow's reading John proclaims that, "because the one who is in you (Christ) is greater than the one who is in the world."

We don't have to be afraid of our enemy, because Jesus is greater than Satan.

I rejoice in Christ my Savior. Jesus you are mighty and my hope is in you. Thank you for coming into this world to set us free from the darkness.

By His Grace,

Matt

Loving the Father

"Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him." 1 John 2:15

We can love the Father or the world but not both. These are competing loves and only one of them can ultimately possess our heart. The world is contrary to the Father and His ways. If we would love the Father we must relinquish love for the things of this sinful world. If our heart is filled with the desires of the world and our life is occupied by the pursuit of them, we will not be able to truly love the Father. Two competing loves compel us to choose which one we will give our heart and life.

Father, I choose you. I want to be a lover of you yet You know how very alluring and subtle is the world's pull on my heart. Help me to relinquish every vestige of love for the world so that I may love you exclusively and fully.

I'm praying for you.
Pastor Mark

NO ROOM

Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written. John 21:25

Jesus certainly did many wonderful things that the gospels do not record. Perhaps we will get to hear these stories some day in heaven. I don't know. Add to these things the work that Christ continues to accomplish in and through believers, and there really is no end to what could be written down.

The gospel story begins in Bethlehem, where there was no room for Mary, about to give birth, and Joseph. But the gospel account ends with the realization that there is not enough room anywhere to record all of Jesus' life and work.

In a sense, we are a part of the ongoing story of Christ. It is written on our hearts and is read by every person you know. God is able to make your life a great adventure story!

Father, thank You for the marvelous, glorious stories of Jesus. Thank You for allowing me to know them and to know You. Use this day for Your glorious story.

Grace to you,

Jim

Peace

"On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, 'Peace be with you!'" John 20:19

The disciples were understandably afraid. Jesus was crucified, his body was missing (so they thought), and they could be next on the Jews hit list. But then the risen Lord Jesus came into the room infusing peace into the situation and into their lives. When Jesus' shows up everything changes. And Jesus always shows up (the truth is He never leaves). What fears do you have today? What difficulties are you dealing with? Embrace the presence of the risen Lord Jesus and receive the peace He gives. Claim the promise which David understood from the other side of the cross, "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff they comfort me" (Psalm 23:4).

Lord Jesus, You are risen indeed and You are present with me. Help to embrace Your presence today and walk in Your peace with You.

I'm praying for you.
Pastor Mark

The Great Exchange

16 Finally Pilate handed him over to them to be crucified. So the soldiers took charge of Jesus. 17 Carrying his own cross, he went out to the place of the Skull (which in Aramaic is called Golgotha). 18 There they crucified him, and with him two others—one on each side and Jesus in the middle. - John 19:16-18

It's incomprehensible. God, the holy one who created the heavens and the earth, sent his Son to die for us. What's even more astounding is that, Jesus died on a cross. Crucifixion was an excruciatingly painful and humiliating way to die. Can you imagine the Son of God hanging there next to criminals?

Isaiah 53:6 says that, "We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all."

And 2 Corinthians 5:21 says that, "God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God."

Jesus suffered and died in our place. We deserve the cross, but Christ took the punishment for our sins so that we could be reconciled to God.

Father, I can not even comprehend your love for me. I can't imagine what Christ suffered through for me. But I am truly grateful that you made it possible for me to know you. In response to your love for me I give myself to to you. Lead me today.

By His grace,

Matt

Whose in Charge?

"So Judas came to the grove, guiding a detachment of soldiers and some officials from the chief priests and Pharisees. They were carrying torches, lanterns, and weapons. Jesus, knowing all that was going to happen to him, went out and asked them, 'Who is it you want?' 'Jesus of Nazareth,' they replied. 'I am he,' Jesus said. ...When Jesus said, 'I am he,' they drew back and fell to the ground." John 18:3-6

I love this scene! Jesus' enemies come against him armed to the hilt and with a few simple words from His mouth they fall to the ground before Him. Jesus' answer "I am he" is literally just "I am." It is the divine name of God which He revealed to Moses at the burning bush. Jesus of Nazareth is "I am" and over Him no man can stand in authority.

The ones arresting Him were able to take Jesus but only because He allowed them. Peter took his sword and struck off the ear of one of them. But "Jesus commanded Peter, 'Put your sword away! Shall I not drink the cup the Father has given me?'" (John 18:11). He gave Himself over to His opponents because it was the Father's will to secure our salvation through Christ's suffering. But let there be no doubt Jesus was then and is now in absolute charge!

You cannot overcome Him but You can trust Him. Those who oppose His purposes will fall before Him. Those who align there lives with His purposes will rise with Him in triumph.

Father, I rejoice in Jesus, the miracle of the great I AM robed in human flesh. I rejoice that He is in charge and willingly bow my life before Him today.

I'm praying for you.
Pastor Mark

MORE

"You made your people Israel your very own forever, and you, O LORD, have become their God." 1 Chronicles 17:22

Looking back over the Old Testament—seeing the big picture—the story of God's relentless pursuit of His chosen people is hard to miss. The ins and outs, the ups and downs, all are wonderfully and painfully evident. All of this was God’s process of putting His stamp upon the nation of Israel: His people, their God.

Today, God is pursuing you and me. We become His child in an instant, but the process of growing up as God’s very own takes a while. Chosen people, royal priesthood, holy nation (1 Peter 2:9) kind of transformation can take a lifetime. And while God is completely able to effect this change in us, the best part is that we are His forever!

Who wouldn’t want to be His forever, for He has become our God—more and more precious to us with each passing day.

To put it another way, God becomes even more our God as we draw closer to Him. We’ve got all of God from the start, but we discover and own more of God as we follow Him. He is our God, but in a deeper, more fulfilling way—and then we crest the next hill on this God pilgrimage and our jaws drop at the sight of how much more of God we find there (that we had not realized could even exist)!

The more completely we become His, the more God we realize Him to be.

O Lord, You are my God. I ask that You would continue to transform me as Your very own, and in that process become my God more and more completely.

Grace to you,
Jim

At Home in Christ

"I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I remain in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." John 15:5 NIV

The NET Bible offers the word "reside" as an alternate translation for "remain." "Reside" seems to really drive home Jesus' intended meaning. He wants us to be at home in and with Him day by day. The more established our residence becomes in Him the more we will experience His life in us. The more we experience His life in us the more we will see His fruit produced through us. Fruit is not determined by how hard you work but by how much at home you are in relationship with Christ. Work with Him not just for Him. Settle in, put down roots, enjoy His presence daily, keep in step with His leadership and the fruit will follow.

Lord Jesus, I thank you for residing in me through Your Spirit. Teach me to more and more make my daily residence in You.

I'm praying for you.
Pastor Mark

Nothing to Fear

Do not let your hearts be troubled. - John 14:1

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. - John 14:27

The disciples were facing tremendous uncertainty. Their leader, Jesus, was about to be crucified. Their faith would be put to the test. Jesus wanted them to know his peace. He wanted them to be confident in who he was and what they had learned from him. He also told them about the Holy Spirit whom he would send after he was gone.

Like the disciples, there are times that we need to be reassured - times when our faith is tested and our hearts could be troubled. But again, like the disciples, we have the Holy Spirit. And the Holy Spirit is no consolation prize. He is God and He lives in us. He is our advocate. And because of the Spirit we can face uncertainty with peace and confidence.

Father, thank you for not abandoning me. I thank you for the peace and confidence that you provide me by your Spirit. Lead me to walk in step with the Spirit.

By His grace,

Matt

How Great is Our Love?

"I will not speak with you much longer, for the prince of this world is coming. He has no hold on me, but the world must learn that I love the Father and that I do exactly what my Father has commanded me." John 14:30-31

Jesus spoke these words on the night before His crucifixion. "I will not speak with you much longer" points toward His coming death and departure from this world--the completion of His mission. But Jesus made it clear that His death would not be the result of "the prince of this world" (Satan) having the upper hand on Him. Much to the contrary, it would be because of His love for the Father that Jesus would die. Through obedience even to the point of death Jesus demonstrated His love for the Father to the world.

Earlier Jesus had said, "If you love me, you will obey what I command" (14:15, see also verses 21 and 23). The disciple's love for Jesus will be reflected in the same way that Jesus demostrated His love for the Father which is through obedience at any cost. How truly can we claim to love Him?

Father, show me any lack of obedience in my life. Convict me of any failure to fully love Jesus with full obedience to His commands. As He so faithfully loved You, help me to love Him.

I'm praying for you.
Pastor Mark

Listen Carefully

"I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.... My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me." John 10:11, 27

Jesus laid down His life on our behalf. He has surely earned the right to be heard and followed by us. If we remember what He has done for us how can we be inattentive and neglectful of His words? He who loved us enough to die for us will lead us faithfully day by day. Let each day find us in His presence with an open Bible praying for ears to hear His voice. As we hear, let us follow with all faith and faithfulness where our Good Shepherd leads.

Father, give me an attentive mind and an affectionate heart toward my Good Shepherd Jesus. Help me to hear and faithfully follow today that I might know intimate fellowship with Him and effective service to Him.

I'm praying for you.
Pastor Mark

Real Discipleship

"To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, 'If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples.'" John 8:31

Real discipleship consists of living in the teaching of Jesus. The Greek word translated "hold to" by the NIV is the same word used in John 15:5 and translated "remain" or "abide." It means to make yourself at home and continue in something. Discipleship is not launching out on our own agenda with a prayer and hope for God's blessing. Discipleship is listening to Jesus' word and making our home in it. Discipleship is not merely believing Jesus' word. It is submitting to Jesus' word. Are you living as a disciple of Jesus today?

Lord, examine me and show me the true condition of my discipleship. Help me to become an attentive listener to Your voice and a faithful doer of Your word that I might be a real disciple of Yours.

I'm praying for you.
Pastor Mark

When the Going Gets Tough...

"On hearing it, many of his disciples said, 'This is a hard teaching. Who can accept it?'...From this time many of his disciples turned back and no longer followed him.
'You do not want to leave too, do you?' Jesus asked the Twelve. Simon Peter answered him, 'Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We believe and know that you are the Holy One of God." John 6:60, 66-69

How far are you willing to go with Jesus? Only until it becomes too hard? Or are you willing to go all the way?

The "disciples" who turned back on the occasion recorded in the text were not the last to start and not finish the journey of discipleship with Jesus. Those who turn back often begin with the wrong aim. They only want what Christ can do for them. Once the benefit gained is outweighed by the cost of discipleship they leave the trail.

Peter on the other hand represents the faithful who stick with Christ when obedience is hard as well as when blessings are abundant. Peter persevered because he had become convinced of who Jesus is and that the only life worth having comes through following Him.

If we are going to be in company with Peter then we must move from one who has set out on the journey with personal benefit in mind to one who has become so convinced of Jesus that we could not do anything other than follow Him. Are you there yet?

Father, I want to go all the way with Jesus through this life. Deepen my conviction of who He is and strengthen me for "hard" obedience.

I'm praying for you.
Pastor Mark

Jabez's Prayer and Ours

"Jabez was more honorable than his brothers. His mother had named him Jabez, saying, 'I gave birth to him in pain.' Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, 'Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain.' And God granted his request." 1 Chronicles 4:9-10

Several years back, Jabez's prayer was all the rage. Many people were praying it daily hoping it would produce the same results for them that it did for Jabez. But to simply repeat someone's prayer as a kind of magical omen is not true prayer. We can learn from and be inspired by Jabez's experience but we should not attempt to duplicate it.

What we should learn is that God hears and answers the prayer of "honorable" men and women who seek him in faith. Our situation and need is probably different than Jabez's but our God is the same God who hears and answers the prayers of those who seek Him in faith. Our God is a God who delights to bless His people and enlarge their boundaries within the boundaries of His own will. I'm quite sure God has much more to give us than we have yet to receive and places to lead us that we have yet to go. Let's seek Him in faith for the fullness of His will in our lives!

Father, help me to learn to pray with faith from an honorable heart as Jabez did so that I too might experience more of Your will in my life.

I'm praying for you.
Pastor Mark

Unexpected Opportunities

Jacob's well was there, and Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well. It was about the sixth hour. - John 4:6

Jesus was tired. He had a moment to himself because the disciples had gone to get food. This was his moment to relax, to disengage, to not be "on." As a stranger approached it would been completely acceptable for Jesus to sit silently. In fact her ethnicity made it taboo for Jesus to ask her for a drink. So why did he talk to her? Why not avoid the potentially awkward encounter?

Jesus did not allow his exhaustion, selfish desires, or social norms hijack the opportunity he had to tell of His Father's love. Like Jesus we need to fight the feelings of entitlement that would cause us to miss an opportunity to share Jesus with somebody. We need to put to rest our concerns about what other people might think and be ready for the opportunities God gives us to share Him with others.

Father, I know I miss opportunities to tell others about Jesus. Please help me to be more attentive to the people you introduce into my life. Lead me to live in a constant state of awareness so that when the time comes to share I will be ready.

By His grace,

Matt

More of Jesus

"He must become greater; I must become less." John 3:30

These are the words of John the Baptist. His assignment from God was to prepare people to welcome Jesus. Once Jesus was on the scene, John's role was to fade away and give center stage to Jesus.

Don't we all share John the Baptist's assignment? Every Christian has the opportunity and calling to prepare the way for Jesus into the lives of people. There are people around us to whom we can serve as John the Baptist. We may not have the same fire and peculiarities as John but we can be a voice that points people to Jesus. Our aim is to always be that Jesus will take center stage and at that point that we we'll gladly move to the side.

Father, help me to see the people around me today whose lives you desire to enter. Use me as a "John the Baptist" to them.

I'm praying for you.
Mark

Operation You

Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, was one of the two who heard what John had said and who had followed Jesus. The first thing Andrew did was to find his brother Simon and tell him, "We have found the Messiah" (that is, the Christ). - John 1:40-41

These verses our the basis for our church's Operation Andrew outreach strategy. Immediately after he began following Jesus, Andrew found his brother and told him about the Messiah. This is God's design for evangelism. Once we have encountered Christ for ourselves it generates a desire within us to share him with those we know and love.

Another good example of this occurs in Mark 5 after Jesus heals the demon-possessed man where it says, "So the man went away and began to tell in the Decapolis (a 10-city region) how much Jesus had done for him. And all the people were amazed."

But we sure like to complicate sharing Jesus don't we? Maybe we should try taking a more simple approach. Think about what happens when you read a good book or watch a good movie or discover a new restaurant - you let other people know about. You share the good news of your discovery. That's what Andrew did. That's what the demon-possessed man did, and that's all you need to do.

Father, help me to change the way I look at evangelism. Help me to operate free of pressure, guilt, fear and insecurity. Lead me to naturally tell others about the wonderful things you've done for me. Give me courage and confidence. I love you Father and I want others to know and love you too.

By His grace,

Matt

GROW

"But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the honor both now and on that eternal day." 1 Peter 3:18 NET

Peter's last word is "grow." Spiritual growth should be the constant quest of every Christian. Paul believed this when he wrote, "Not that I have already attained this--that is, I have not already been perfected--but I strive to lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus also laid hold of me" (Philippians 3:12). Are you pursuing growth?

Our growth as Peter lays it out is to be "in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." Grace is the generous, undeserved love of God toward us through which He freely blesses us. We have been saved by grace. But we are not finished with grace once we are saved. We continue to need grace to grow to spiritual maturity. We cannot become like Christ merely through our personal striving. We must have grace to reach such heights and so daily we look toward God's throne of grace seeking the grace we need to grow (see Hebrews 4:16). In addition to grace, we need knowledge to grow. This knowledge of Jesus is gained through prayerful reading, study, and meditation over the Scripture wherein He is revealed to us by the Holy Spirit. We must not only look daily up to God's throne for grace but we must look daily down to the copy of God's Word in our hand for knowledge of Jesus. Are you looking up to God and down to Scripture seeking to grow each day?

Father, may I never be content with the ground I've already gained in my Christian growth. Fill me with the continual desire to grow in the grace and knowledge of my Lord Jesus Christ.

I'm praying for you.
Pastor Mark

Adding to Faith

"For if you possesses these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ." 2 Peter 1:8

"Ineffective and unproductive." What an epitaph to have written over one's spiritual life! May it not be mine or yours.

To keep from being ineffective and unproductive we need to possess and grow in the qualities listed in verses 5 through 7: "Add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love."

Are you adding? Are you building on the foundation of faith that God has given you (see v.2)? Those who do not rest content with faith alone but build on their faith a vibrant, Christ-like life will never be found to be ineffective and unproductive. Let's build!

Father, may the words ineffective and unproductive never be Your assessment of my life. Help me to build on the faith You have given me a life that is effective and productive to Your glory.

I'm praying for you.
Pastor Mark

NOTE: After we finish reading 2 Peter on Thursday, we will begin the Gospel of John. Remember that we skipped over John earlier in the year to save one of the Gospels for the end of the year.

DEEPLY

Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. 1 Peter 4:8

Two thoughts about this important little verse:

(1) The proactive work of love for each other becomes a firewall against sin. Without this love, we are like people who don’t follow Christ, and any number of wrongs could result in that scenario. With the love of Christ, we are protected from these sins.

(2) We are all sinners, and Christ’s love expressed to each other helps us see each other through God’s eyes. If, in the past, two individuals had sinned against each other, this love would cover any animosity that might have existed. Love buries sin. Deep love keeps us from even finding the hole where the sin is buried.

Father, thank You for Your love. Help me to love others deeply so that sin can be avoided and dealt with.

Grace to you
Jim

Christ's Sufferings

"Because Christ also suffered once for sins, the just for the unjust, to bring you to God, by being put to death in the flesh but by being made alive in the spirit." 1 Peter 3:18 NET

Let me continue in the vein of Matt's reflections yesterday. We as Christians need to be brought back to the cross repeatedly to reflect on, celebrate, and rely on the grace of God given to us in Christ. It was no small or simple thing our Savior did for us. He "suffered...to bring you to God." It was a large price He paid to redeem us from sin and reconcile us to God. Let this realization of Christ's sufferings create thanksgiving and faithfulness in our hearts toward Him.

Father, I thank you for the suffering Christ endured for my sake. "Amazing love how can it me that you my King would die for me?" Grant me strength "to live for Him who died for me" and even to suffer today if such is the cost of absolute faithfulness to my Lord.

I'm praying for you.
Pastor Mark

Put to Death

He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed. - 1 Peter 2:24

As Christians we frequently take time to remember, celebrate and proclaim Christ's crucifixion. When we reflect on what his death and resurrection mean for us, we focus the forgiveness of our past sins. What we forget is that we have not only been forgiven of our past sins, but we've also been set free from the power of sin. Peter says this was done so that we might, "live for righteousness."

Father, help me to remember that Christ's death did more than clean up my mistakes, but that his death put to death my sin nature. Lead me to live for righteousness. Show me the things that I do, think, say that aren't righteous. Convict me over those sins and fill me with the power of your Spirit so that I can live victoriously.

By His grace,
Matt

The Forces of Nature

. . . your desires that battle within you? - James 4:1

Does it ever feel like there is a war going on inside your mind? As Christians our will and our desires are often at odds. We have the Holy Spirit but we can't escape our flesh. Our deepest longing is to honor God, but we also want to look out for our own interests, spoil ourselves with nice things, say mean things to the people we don't like, lie when it's more convenient than telling the truth, etc. The list could go on forever. Being a Christian doesn't exempt us from the desire to do these things.

The apostle Paul was very familiar with this inner struggle. In Romans 7 he speaks of not being able to do the things he wants to do, and instead doing the very things he hates.

So what hope is there for us? Are we to go on living tormented lives?

Paul answers that question for us in verse 24-25 when he says, "Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin and death? ²⁵ Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord."

In Galatians 5 Paul shines more light on this conflict of natures. He characterizes the sinful nature and he describes the fruit of the Spirit. Then in verse 25 he provides us with the key to victory, "Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit."

Father, I want to stand strong against my sinful nature, and I want to honor you with my life. Help me to "keep in step with the Spirit."

By His grace,
Matt

Living by the Book

"Then Jehoiada brought out Joash, the king's son, and placed the crown on his head. He presented Joash with a copy of God's laws and proclaimed him king. They anointed him, and all the people clapped their hands and shouted, "Long live the king!" 2 Kings 11:12 NLT

There were two essential pieces of "equipment" given to Joash to help him serve as king. The first was the crown symbolizing his authority. The second was a Bible ("copy of God's laws") to guide him in his personal life and leadership. Every king of Judah received these two things but most of them abused the crown and ignored the book. However, with the help of Jehoiada, the godly priest, Joash followed God's laws and was one of the few really good kings in Judah's history.

Since we are not kings we don't need a crown but we too have been given the Bible to guide us in our life and service. There is no greater treasure than the Bible. If we pay careful attention to God's Words and practice them in our daily life we too will be faithful and successful in God's sight. Don't take your Bible for granted. Open it, read it, and live according to the words of life contained in it.

Father, help me to treasure Your Word and to follow it as Joash did so that I too may live a life that honors You and blesses the people in whose lives you have given me influence.

I'm praying for you.
Pastor Mark

FAVORITES

If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, "Love your neighbor as yourself," you are doing right. James 2:8

Someone needs to tell James that it’s hardly fair to throw the great commandment into a discourse on showing favoritism. It’s one thing to talk about how wrong it is to favor a rich person over someone who is poor, but when the discussion escalates to the level of loving my neighbor as if he or she were me, things get uncomfortable, at best.

The problem with favoritism isn’t with the other (rich or poor—or otherwise) person. It’s clear that we play favorites in many situations, and the favoritism is usually the same—we favor ourselves. The natural inclination is to favor myself—to cater to my wants and needs—and perhaps, if it’s convenient, bring my neighbor along for the ride.

The truth is, it’s really impossible to love others as much as we love ourselves. That kind of love was demonstrated on the cross by Christ, and His love is evident in our lives only as we live in obedience to Him.

Father, I want to do right and love others without favoritism. I know there’s a long way to go, but I ask You to continue to change me so that I can show Your love to others. Thank you for showing Your love to me.

Grace to you
Jim

THANKFULNESS

Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our “God is a consuming fire.” Hebrews 12:28-29

For the past few days, I’ve been thinking about thankfulness. Specifically, I’ve been trying to uncover what thankfulness teaches us about God.

God’s people are exhorted again and again—in various ways—to be thankful: there are thank offerings and psalms of thanksgiving, worship includes thankfulness, Jesus offered thanks before he multiplied the loaves and fish, thanksgiving is to be included in prayer, and the Christian is to be thankful. (In the realm of religious faiths, are the ones based on the God of the Bible the only faiths that hold thankfulness in high regard?)

Certainly, we are to be thankful for who God is and all that He has done for us. We can never thank Him enough for redeeming us from the curse of sin and for His ongoing work in our lives to make us more like Christ. God’s comfort and presence in times of difficulty is another reason to be thankful; we are thankful for our families and friends—the list goes on and on.

If the verse were to read: “let us be fearful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our ‘God is a consuming fire,’” our relationship with God would be quite different. Our worship would be mandated and there would be a separation between us and Him. However, that we can come before God with thankfulness means that He is for us (He has our best interest at heart) and that He is a personal God (He invites us into His presence).

Thankfulness points to the goodness of God. We would have good reason to fear an all powerful, all knowing, ever present deity, but add to that the quality of true goodness and there is every reason to respond with thankfulness (and praise).

Father, there is so much to thank You for: salvation, sustaining grace, provision, strength to face temptation—the list is endless. Thank You for today and for Your presence. I praise You because You are good.

God’s grace to you,
Jim

Looking Forward in Faith

"Abraham did this because he was confidently looking forward to a city with eternal foundations, a city designed and built by God." Hebrews 11:10 NLT

In obedience to God's call Abraham left the comfort of his home and the advanced culture of Ur to go to the backwoods of Canaan and live in a tent. But seeing with eyes of faith he had something greater in view than the comforts he left behind. Living in a tent for a few years was a worthwhile price to pay for the eternal city toward which God was leading him. By faith he wanted to be a part of the greater things of God and was willing to pay the temporary cost to do God's will for eternal gain.

Are you living for the eternal or for the temporary? We can become so focused on our comfort and dreams for this present world that we lose sight of the eternal world. If we truly catch sight of the greatness of God's eternal kingdom we will suddenly reorder our life to get in on what God is doing and to go where God is leading. It may not make sense to the world around us but we are seeing and living for something they do not see or understand.

Father, open my eyes to see by faith the things that are eternal and to live for them rather than the temporary comforts of this world.

I'm praying for you.
Pastor Mark

Too Clever for God?

"So the king of Israel disguised himself and went into battle...But someone drew his bow at random and hit the king of Israel between the sections of his armor." 1 Kings 22:30, 34

The prophet had delivered the word of the Lord to King Ahab declaring that he would die in battle. This was God's judgment on Ahab's wickedness. Ahab thought he could cleverly disguise himself and hide from the judgment of God. But one cannot escape from God's judgment no matter how clever he may be.

We may hide our sins from the eyes of men but we cannot hide them from the searching eyes of the Lord. Proverbs 28:12 warns, "He who conceals his sins does not prosper." While we can never escape God's judgment by hiding our sins there is another way to escape God's judgment. The above proverb goes on to declare, "But whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy." Or as 1 John 1:9 says, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness."

Father, reveal any hidden sin in my life so that I may confess and renounce it and receive your mercy.

I'm praying for you.
Pastor Mark

WHO / WHAT / WHEN

Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them. Hebrews 7:25

Who: Jesus
What: intercedes
When: always

It is for you and me that Jesus—THE SON OF GOD— is interceding. Who else would you want in your corner?

Not only did he pay the price for our sins, he continues to be our advocate before the throne of God. Because of this, there can be no doubt that he is able (and willing) to save us. Nothing will fall between the cracks; we are and will be completely saved.

Thank you, Lord, for saving me. Thank you for continuing to intercede for me at the highest level I can imagine. You are a great God.

Grace to you,
Jim

Listen and Obey

"Now Elijah...said to Ahab, 'As the LORD, the God of Israel, lives, whom I serve, there will be neither dew nor rain in the nest few years except at my word.'" 1 Kings 17:1

What a bold declaration Elijah made to King Ahab! On what basis did he make this prediction? He spoke for the Lord "whom I serve." The King James Version reads "before whom I stand" where the New International Version has "whom I serve." Putting the two translations together we get the full picture communicated in the original Hebrew. Elijah stood before the Lord as a servant listening for His voice and ready to obey His command. When the Master spoke the servant went from His presence to obey. The Lord gave Elijah this message to deliver to Ahab and, at risk of his own life, Elijah delivered the message of judgment obediently.

This is a good picture of what our own relationship to the Lord should be. We stand before Him as His servants with ears attentive to His Word and then we go from His presence to obey what He has said, no matter the cost. When we open our Bibles we take the posture of a servant ready to hear the Master. When we close our Bibles we take the position of a servant ready to obey the Master.

Father, may I learn to be more attentive to Your word and then obedient like Elijah. Give me ears to hear, a heart to believe, and hands to obey.

I'm praying for you.
Pastor Mark

Slow Learner?

But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil. - Hebrews 5:14

The writer of Hebrews labels the recipients of his letter slow learners (v.11). He tells them that they should be teachers by now (v.12). Reading his remarks leads me to ask myself the following questions, and I would invite you to ask yourself these same questions.

• How much do I depend on others to teach me the Word of God? Am I too reliant on others to feed me spiritually?
• Am I studying God's Word for myself?
• Is my faith immature? Do I have to relearn the same simple lessons of faith over and over again?
• What have I done to train myself to distinguish good from evil?
  

Father, examining myself with these questions reveals that I am weak and undisciplined. I know that you desire me to be mature, "lacking nothing." I need your grace to overcome my shortcomings and to grow into the person you desire me to be. Lead me to grow in faith, knowledge and obedience.

By His grace,
Matt

Fully Committed

"...Asa's heart was fully committed to the LORD all his life." 1 Kings 16:14

Asa was a breath of fresh air for Judah. Following two kings who were not committed to the Lord Asa came walking in the footsteps of his great, great grandfather David. He turned away from the idolatry of his father and and grandfather and worshiped the Lord and obeyed His commands as David had done.

Every generation must make it's own choice about worshiping and following the Lord. We can neither coast on the devotion of our parents nor use their unfaithfulness as an excuse. We must choose for ourselves to follow after the Lord with our whole heart.

Father, I have chosen to follow You and pray that it may be said of me that I was fully committed to the LORD all my life.

I'm praying for you.
Pastor Mark

PAYING ATTENTION

We must pay more careful attention, therefore, to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away. Hebrews 2:1

There is something about the start of school in the fall (much like the start of the calendar year) that prompts me to evaluate how I’m living life. Specifically, I review my spiritual progress—or lack thereof—and seek to strengthen my connection with Christ. I often find that I have become distracted (sort of a spiritual attention deficit disorder—is that SADD?) by some activities and attitudes that I could do without.

If I paid more careful attention to the things God has taught me, this periodic course correction would not be needed so often.

If this exercise will help you, I hope you will also seek a renewed focus on God’s will for your life. A little course correction keeps our tendency to drift in check.

Father, help me to keep my attention on You so that I will not drift away from what brings You glory. Renew my focus in any area of life where distraction is a problem. Help me to retain and put into practice the principles I’m learning from You.

Grace to you,
JIM

Foolish Love

"Now King Solomon loved many foreign women....The LORD had clearly instructed his people not to intermarry with those nations, because the women they married would lead them to worship their gods. Yet Solomon insisted on loving them anyway." 1 Kings 11:1, 2 NLT

For all of Solomon's wisdom he was terribly foolish when it came to women. He let women rule his heart rather than God. In spite of the Lord's clear command "Solomon insisted on loving them (pagan women) anyway." They drug his heart away from God and brought division to his kingdom. What a fool!

Is there anything about which God's word is clear but you are insistently holding on to anyway? Our loves may be different but we can be just as foolish and stubborn in our sin as Solomon. Solomon gained little and lost much by holding on to his sin. What will you gain by holding on to yours? What will you lose?

Father, search my heart and make me aware of any "loves" that I am stubbornly holding on to in spite of the clear warning of your word. Give me a heart responsive and wholly devoted to you.

I'm praying for you.
Pastor Mark

PROMISES

The people of Judah and Israel were as numerous as the sand on the seashore; they ate, they drank and they were happy. 1 Kings 4:20

God’s people enjoyed great prosperity and peace during the reign of King Solomon. This was a high point in Jewish history and, as a result, the nation flourished—especially in population growth and in geo-political influence. However, even though King Solomon is known for his wisdom, it is God who deserves all the recognition and honor for the success of His people.

God is the one who promised Abraham that his descendants would be “as numerous as the stars in the sky and as the sand on the seashore” (Genesis 22:17). And while this promise has more spiritual implications than physical ones, it is clear that God was fulfilling His promise during King Solomon’s reign.

God always keeps His word. It is impossible for Him to fail.

Father, thank You for keeping Your word and for showing us time after time in scripture how You keep Your promises. Help us to trust You, knowing that You still keep Your word and that nothing is too difficult for You.

Grace to You,
JIM

Fatihful without Fail

"If we are faithless, he will remain faithful, for he cannot disown himself." 2 Timothy 2:13

The Lord Jesus may disown us if we disown Him (v.12) but if we are faithless He cannot return the favor. Faithlessness is not in the character of Jesus. As "God does not lie" (Titus 1:2) so Jesus is not faithless. He will always be faithful to His character--He is unchanging. He will always be faithful to His promises--He is unfailing. He will always be faithful to His purposes--He is unstoppable. We may falter and fail but when we look to Him we will find Him ever faithful.

Lord Jesus, I rejoice in your unfailing faithfulness and pray that You may so fully live in me that I may reflect your faithfulness.

I'm praying for you.
Pastor Mark

RESPONSE

I call to the LORD, who is worthy of praise,
and I am saved from my enemies. 2 Samuel 22:4

These two lines are a small part of the song that is recorded in this chapter (also Psalm 18), but they reveal one reason God considered King David “a man after my own heart.” Whenever he was in danger, David’s response was to turn to God. God was his source of strength in the battles of life.

Faced any enemies lately? Every time we face temptation, we are under attack by the enemy. How can we survive unscathed? Turn to God and seek His strength to overcome temptation. God tells us in James 4:7: “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”

Lord, I turn to you now for strength to overcome the temptations I will face today. Give me a heart that seeks and submits to You over anything else. You are truly worthy of praise.

God’s grace to you,
Jim

Eternal Investments

"The sins of some men are obvious, reaching the place of judgment ahead of them; the sins of others trail behind them. In the same way, good deeds are obvious, and even those that are not cannot be hidden." 1 Timothy 5:24-25

Our sins may be obvious to men and precede us to the place of judgment or they may be done quietly and trail behind us. But whether obvious or quiet "Be sure your sins will find you out" (Numbers 32:23). We cannot afford to trifle with sin. We must kill it through repentance and confession. Once our sin has been dealt with through the blood of Christ then we need not fear meeting it again at the place of judgment (1 John 1:7, 9).

Not only do our sins follow us but so do our good deeds. Sometimes our good deeds are obvious and recognized by others. But those done quietly will not go unnoticed by God (see Matthew 6:3-4). Rather than depleting our spiritual account through sin, we can invest in it through good deeds that will bring eternal dividends. Once again remember Galatians 6:7: "A man reaps what he sows."

Father, may it be good deeds rather than sin that mark my life that I may hear Your "Well done" when I stand before You.

I'm praying for you.
Pastor Mark

Spiritual Fitness

. . . train yourself to be godly. - 1 Timothy 4:7b

I find this short little phrase to be extremely profound and deeply convicting. This is a lesson that I must be reminded of often. Godliness doesn't just happen. I can not expect that just because I've been a Christian for a while that sin just will lose its power. Nor can I expect that just because I go to (or even work for a) church that my walk with Christ will grow.

We don't passively stumble into godliness.

Paul parallels our pursuit of godliness with physical training. So just as with physical training, godliness requires effort and work. To grow stronger we must practice discipline and be consistent. When we get lazy and neglect our disciplines then we become spiritually unfit. If we want to enjoy a better relationship with Christ we must commit ourselves to the spiritual disciplines of prayer, studying, meditating on and memorization of Scripture, fasting, silence, a Sabbath, giving, etc.

Father, give me joy in exercising my spiritual muscles and show me more of yourself as I pursue a deeper relationship with you.

By His Grace,
Matt

The Church Matters

"...I am writing you these instructions so that...you will know how people ought to conduct themselves in God's household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth." 1 Timothy 3:14-15

Although our culture would marginalize the church that is not God's view. In God's view the church is central--it is God's household (family). In God's plan the church is essential--it is the pillar and foundation that upholds the truth in this world.

When we allow the church to become in our thinking only a meeting place or an organization we do a great disservice to ourselves and our community. We must embrace our significant identity as God's family and our significant mission of holding up and out God's truth in a morally and spiritually crumbling world.

Father, help the church to be what you created it to be in this world. Help our church to realize your vision for us in our community.

I'm praying for you.
Pastor Mark

The Worst Sinner?

"Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners--of whom I am the worst." 1 Timothy 1:15

Would Paul have literally won a worst sinners contest? There were undoubtedly men whose deeds were worse than Paul's when judged by this world's standard. But Paul knew his own heart and the righteousness of Christ.

The heart that seems pure when looked upon by the light of this world is revealed to be stained with sin when held up to the light of Christ. Our realization of the magnificence of God's grace grows in proportion to our recognition of our own utter sinfulness apart from Christ. Then like Paul we will stand in awe of the fact that He saved us and give Him glory.

Lord Jesus, I am the worst sinner I know for I know my own heart. I thank you that you saved me and continue to pour grace on me daily. May your grace be magnified in my life that other sinners around me may be drawn to you.

I'm praying for you.
Pastor Mark

Keep Alert

"In the spring, at the time when kings go off to war, David sent Joab out wit the king's men and the whole Israelite army. They destroyed the Ammonites and besieged Rabbah. But David remained in Jerusalem." 2 Samuel 11:1

So began David's fall into sin. When he should have been with the army fighting Israel's battles he stayed in the comfort of his palace. Instead of being disciplined and diligent he settled into complacency and comfort. He was in the wrong place as far as his responsibility to God was concerned. He was in the right place for the enemy of our souls to attack and overcome him. David's fall did not begin with his first look at Bathsheba but with the relaxing of his discipline and duty.

If we become complacent and comfortable about our spiritual life and duty we become an easier target for the enemy. The battle rages everyday and so everyday must find us putting on our spiritual armor and standing at spiritual attention ready to fight the good fight of the faith. Keep yourself planted in the Word. Keep alert in prayer. Keep faithful in duty.

Father, help me not to become spiritually complacent and comfortable but rather to maintain discipline and diligence that I may be ready to stand against the schemes of the evil one and the desires of the sinful nature.

I'm praying for you.
Pastor Mark

Winning the Battle

"Now the Philistines had come and spread out in the Valley of Rephaim; so David inquired of the LORD, 'Shall I go and attack the Philistines? Will you hand them over to me?' The LORD answered him, 'Go, for I will surely hand the Philistines over to you.'" 2 Samuel 5:19

After David was crowned king over Israel, the Philistines, Israel's long-time nemesis, attacked with hopes of overthrowing David before he was firmly established. David's reaction was not to move immediately out to battle but rather to move into the presence of the Lord and seek His direction. Inquiring of the Lord before making major moves was a pattern in David's life. This was surely part of the reason he was called "a man after God's own heart."

One thing we can be sure of is that our enemy, the devil, will attack us and seek to dislodge us from our firm commitment to the Lord (see 1 Peter 5:8). We must learn that the battle is not won by drawing on our strength to counter attack but by seeking the Lord. The Philistines were not only Israel's enemies but they were God's enemies and so he gladly delivered them into David's hand as long as David depended on Him. The devil is not only our enemy but he is first and foremost the enemy of God. God will gladly lead us to victory over the devil's attacks if we will learn to seek and depend on God in the battle.

Father, whether great or small I will surely be attacked today by Your enemy the devil. Give me the humility to find strength for the battle in prayer that You may win the victory.

I'm praying for you.
Pastor Mark

How is your Faith?

"For this reason, when I could stand it no longer, I sent to find out about your faith. I was afraid that in some way the tempter might have tempted you and our efforts might have been useless. But Timothy has just now come to us from you and has brought good news about your faith and love." 1 Thessalonians 3:5-6b

Paul had been forced out of Thessalonica by persecution from the Jews and the new converts he left behind were enduring the same persecution. Like a mother concerned for the welfare of her baby, Paul had deep concern for the viability and vitality of the Thessalonians' faith in Christ. Would it be demolished by the persecution or would it endure and grow strong through the persecution? The verdict delivered by Timothy was that they were doing quite well and growing in their new found faith!

Faith is not a static, lifeless transaction in response to facts about Christ but rather a living, dynamic relationship with Christ. Faith can grow or fail. Faith can be healthy or it can be on life support. How is your faith today? Is it growing through the trials and temptations of life or is it faltering? Faith fed on the Scripture, prayer, and fellowship with God's people will grow while faith starved of this essential Christian nourishment will fail. Feed your faith so that you may grow and live a vibrant Christian life in any and every circumstance life may bring.

Father, I thank you for the faith you have given me in Jesus Christ and I pray that You will help me to nourish and grow in my faith today.

I'm praying for you.
Pastor Mark

Giving Thanks

"We always thank God for all of you, mentioning you in our prayers." 1 Thessalonians 1:2

We have much to be thankful for every time we pray. God has blessed us beyond measure. After our salvation through Christ, God's choicest blessings are the people through whom God enriches our spiritual life and those whom God allows us to enrich. Paul was thankful for the Thessalonians both because God had allowed him to play a key role in leading them to Christ and because their faithfulness to Christ had been a blessing to Him. Who can you thank God for today? Who has enriched your spiritual life? Who have you had the privilege of influencing spiritually?

Father, I thank you for the people you have placed around me with whom I share life in Christ.

I'm praying for you.
Pastor Mark

A True Peace

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:7

In this short verse, Paul reminds us that true peace can only come when we are trusting and walking with Christ. In Philippians 4:6 we are reminded that "we are not to be anxious, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God."

As you read this you could be in the middle of a difficult morning. Everything around you is in complete chaos and you may have realized that your schedule for the rest of the day is overwhelming. Just as we are reminded in this verse, there are times in our life that we need to slow down and spend time in prayer. When we do it seems like our day can go from chaotic to calm. Have you given God this day? Have you lifted up your requests and anxious thoughts to God? If not, stop what you are doing and present your requests to God and allow the peace of God to guard your heart.

Father, help me today to surrender everything to you. Help me to not be overwhelmed with the task at hand and to always beware of opportunities to tell others about your crazy love for my life.

Chris

The Jesus Standard

Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: - Philippians 2:5

As Christians who are empowered by the Holy Spirit the standard for our life is Christlikeness. It's plain and simple, "Whoever claims to walk in him must live as Jesus did." (1 John 1:6). There's no negotiating room. We are expected to live as Christ did.

But how is that possible? I am not Christ. I am full of sin. Once we've trusted in Christ the Holy Spirit comes to indwell our hearts. We are filled the the power of God, the same power Christ had. And so we now have the means to accomplish the very task we've been called to.

So if we've been called to live like Jesus what does that look like? What "attitude" does he have that we are to emulate? Well, look at the verses that follow. How is Jesus characterized? He is a servant, he is humble and obedient. Jesus is described as many other things, but this is a good place to start.

Lord, I want to be like Christ, but sometimes that feels like too high of a standard. I constantly fall short. Forgive my shortcomings and purify my heart of wickedness. Empower my with your Spirit and help me set my mind and desires on the things that honor you. I give you permission to develop me into the kind of humble, obedient servant that Christ was.

For His glory,
Matt

PROGRESS AND JOY

. . . I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, . . . Philippians 1:25b

I like the way Paul has tied together two descriptive words—progress and joy—in this passage.

In any church, either of these outcomes—progress or joy—would be enough to encourage the pastor and his flock, but a wonderful thing about progress and joy is that we rarely experience one without the other. When a follower of Christ makes strides forward in obedience to God, the church family (and the believer) rejoices. When the church finds their joy in Jesus, believers advance in one or many aspects of their faith. For God’s people, growth brings gladness and gladness encourages growth.

Of course, it’s not really news that progress made results in positive attitudes which, in turn, encourage further progress. You don’t have to follow Christ to experience this phenomenon. But Paul specifies that the Christian’s progress and joy is “in the faith,” and that raises the experience far above even the best stuff of this life.

So, let’s continue to work together for each other’s progress and joy in the faith. Focus your efforts on remaining in the cycle of progress and joy. Encourage (and help) those who are struggling, submit to one another out of reverence for Christ, meet together one on one and in small and large groups, pray diligently for each other, read and study and memorize God’s Word; in short—stay close to God and to each other.

Lord, how great and marvelous are Your ways. Guide me by Your Holy Spirit to make steady progress in obeying, serving, and loving You. Thank you for the joy and peace I experience in following You. Bless our church with progress and joy in the faith as we continue together as one family in You.

God’s grace to you,
JIM

Attitude Toward Authority

⁷Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not men, - Ephesians 6:7

Our attitude towards authority reflects our understanding of the Lordship of Christ.

If you tend to resist those in authority over you or if you begrudge your earthly duties it isn't just a reflection of your work ethic, it reveals that you aren't fully submitted to Christ.

When your life is fully surrendered to Christ people around you will notice. They will see it in the way you do your job, or in the way you parent, or in the way you talk about people in leadership, or in the way you lead. Your attitude toward authority is a witness for Christ.

We are all subject to the authority of Christ. So, work as though God were your boss, obey as though God were your parent, and serve as though God were the one watching, because he is.

Lord, examine me. Help me to see if there are any areas of my life that aren't honoring to you. Lead me to honor and respect those in authority over me. You are Lord over all - my life included. I submit myself to you. Use my life to show my co-workers, peers, friends and family that you are the one true God. My trust is in you.

For His Glory,
Matt

ONE ANOTHER

Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. Ephesians 5:21

I have particular difficulty living out this verse. Perhaps you do, too.

Embracing the counter-everything word submit is radical enough, and I do seek to submit to God. However, it's the dynamic one another that gets my goat.

I think I give the public "submit to one another" thing a sincere attempt. It's the private (friends and family) act of submitting that sneaks up on me. Is my reverence for Christ so limited? Do I reverence myself more than Jesus? These thoughts trouble me.

I hope you'll join me in a more comprehensive and conscious pursuit of our mutual concern and love for each other, because of our reverence for Christ. Let's pay attention to how well we submit to each other, and seek to glorify God in this, as well.

Father, I want to submit to You and to my brothers and sisters in Christ. Help me to think of others more than I think of me. Guide me to live in reverence to Your Son.

Have a blessed day,
JIM

God's Masterpiece

"For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." Ephesians 2:10

The Greek word translated "workmanship" is a word from which we get our English word poem. As people saved through God's grace in Christ, we are God's poem, His work of art, His masterpiece. Through the good works that flow out of our life as a result of His grace in us God shows His amazing handiwork to the world. The transformation of a life from sinful self-centeredness to Christ-like goodness in word and deed is a work of art that only God can perform through His amazing grace in Christ Jesus. Let His handiwork shine forth through your life today.

Father, I rejoice in the grace You have given me in Christ and pray that Your master workmanship will shine forth out of my life today to the praise and glory of Your name.

I'm praying for you.
Pastor Mark

Consecration and Prayer

"Then Samuel took a suckling lamb and offered it up as a whole burnt offering to the LORD. He cried out to the LORD on Israel's behalf, and the LORD answered him." 1 Samuel 7:9

Samuel's ministry on behalf of Israel involved consecration and intercession. Offering a lamb as burnt offering was a symbol of consecration (total commitment to God). The lamb was offered to God as a symbol of the worshipers dedication of his life to God. Samuel was personally consecrated to the Lord and he led the Israelites to consecrate themselves to the Lord (see 1 Sam. 7:3-6; click reference to read). Following the consecration of their lives to the Lord Samuel then prayed for God to deliver the Israelites out of the hand of the Philistines. God answered his prayer and brought a great deliverance to Israel.

Consecration of ourselves to God must precede powerful praying. "The prayer of a righteous (i.e. consecrated) man is powerful and effective" (James 5:16). Prayer from a consecrated soul will find favor with God. Let all your praying first begin with a time of soul searching through the light of the Holy Spirit and confession of sin as He convicts you. Then with a cleansed life proceed to seek God's powerful working in your life and the lives of those around you.

Father, search me today and cleanse me from all sin that I may prevail with You in prayer as You desire.

I'm praying for you.
Pastor Mark

More Like Jesus

"Each one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself, without comparing himself to somebody else, for each one should carry his own load." Galatians 6:3-4

One of the temptations we face is to compare our self to somebody else whom we deem less faithful or spiritually mature than our self. In so doing we comfort our self that we are doing quite well after all and we slip into complacency.

There is only one to whom we are to compare our self and that is Jesus Christ. To be like Him is the whole aim of our Christian life (see Romans 8:29; click on the reference to read the verse). Until we have reached the full measure of the stature of Christ (see Ephesians 4:13) we cannot rest in our effort to grow and mature spiritually.

We may grow discouraged in striving to become like Christ but we need to remember that our success does not rest with us but with God. He has given us His Holy Spirit to conform us degree by degree into the likeness of Jesus (see 2 Corinthians 3:17-18). Keep the goal of Christ-likeness before you. Never be content with any lesser standard. Rely on the Holy Spirit to help you. Enjoy the journey. You will not arrive overnight but you will arrive by His grace and for His glory.

Father, help me to never be content to measure my spiritual maturity and faithfulness against another sinful man but inspire me daily to strive for the high calling of being conformed to the image of Your Son, my Savior.

I'm praying for you.
Pastor Mark