“Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword.” Matthew 10:34
We’re only three weeks out from Christmas—a season replete with songs, cards, yard décor, and much more, proclaiming “peace on earth” or “Prince of peace.” Well, that was a short-lived peace!
Forgive me, I could not pass up the opportunity to toy around with a play on words. And I do realize that Jesus is laying out the plain truth for those who acknowledge Him: believers live in a world that is hostile to Christ.
But Jesus really did come to do battle, waging a war again Satan to secure redemption for you and me. The point is that He was completely victorious! And because Christ has defeated sin and death, we can have peace with God.
So, you may need to make adjustments to your mental image of Christ. You may also need to see yourself in a different light. You are a warrior.
Father, give me courage in the fight.
Grace to you, Jim
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Thursday, January 6, 2011
PERFECT
Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect. Matthew 5:48
Just when is sin, sin?
In Matthew 5, Jesus takes on this question. He examines the accepted behaviors and thoughts of His day, contrasting them with God’s standard. With each statement He makes leading up to verse 48, Jesus closes one loophole after another, tying off His argument with, “Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.”
You and I both know that no one can reach that standard, not for a day—probably not even for an hour.
Thankfully, Jesus did reach that standard, living a sinless life so that He could bridge the terrible gap between us and God. He is our perfect Savior.
Father, I see Your perfection in Your great love for me. Thank You for allowing me to know You and serve You. Guide me to think and act more like You today.
Grace to you,
Jim
Just when is sin, sin?
In Matthew 5, Jesus takes on this question. He examines the accepted behaviors and thoughts of His day, contrasting them with God’s standard. With each statement He makes leading up to verse 48, Jesus closes one loophole after another, tying off His argument with, “Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.”
You and I both know that no one can reach that standard, not for a day—probably not even for an hour.
Thankfully, Jesus did reach that standard, living a sinless life so that He could bridge the terrible gap between us and God. He is our perfect Savior.
Father, I see Your perfection in Your great love for me. Thank You for allowing me to know You and serve You. Guide me to think and act more like You today.
Grace to you,
Jim
Thursday, December 16, 2010
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
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
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
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
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
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
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
Monday, December 13, 2010
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
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
Thursday, December 9, 2010
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
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
Monday, December 6, 2010
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
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
Thursday, December 2, 2010
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
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
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
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
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
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
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
Monday, November 29, 2010
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
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
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
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
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
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
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
Monday, November 22, 2010
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
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
Thursday, November 18, 2010
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
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
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 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
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
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
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
Monday, November 15, 2010
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
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
Thursday, November 11, 2010
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
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
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
