Romans 3: 20 Therefore no one will be declared righteous in God’s sight by the works of the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of our sin.
This sums up a dilemma faced by many in the faith. If we are not saved by works, then why bother to do good deeds? We are saved by our faith first; no one without faith can be in a relationship with God. If we are not in such a relationship, we cannot expect to suddenly gain such a relationship after death.
B/c we have a relationship with God, it becomes apparent to us all the ways we fall short of righteousness. This is not to say that all without faith are not good people; many nonbelievers are good, just, caring folks. In a way, these people are better than us, b/c they achieve goodness without God's guidance, but they are not saved anyway.
And many people who try to be good are just not humble enough to accept that there is a Superior Being. Their pride is a sin.
Prayer: I pray for all those who lack faith, who do not have a loving relationship with God. I hope that their eyes will be opened, that their ears will hear the Good News, and that in the end, they will receive the gift of faith in their hearts.
Amen
Saturday, November 30, 2013
Friday, November 29, 2013
Nov. 29, 2013
1 Thessalonians 5: 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
A good thought for the day after Thanksgiving--we should ALWAYS give thanks, not just on a special holiday!
I am thankful for the family who gathered yesterday. All of us were there, except for one who is living out of state, and her mother travels to her today, so I am sure she will hear of our group and the fine time we had.
It was nice to have everyone from young to old together. There was a bounty of food, of course, and lots of shared conversations. There were memories and plans to share. The little ones entertained everyone, and pictures were taken to record this date and fix it in our memories for Thanksgivings to come.
So today, we begin another year before the official day of thanks comes again. We need to be careful to find the time to give thanks EVERY day for God is good, and our lives are indeed a blessing.
Prayer: Lord, help me to be more thankful for my blessings every day of every month. I am especially grateful for this special holiday of Thanksgiving and for the days of Advent, leading to our celebration of the birth of Your son. But I also want to acknowledge the gratitude I feel for the little blessings in my life every day.
Amen
A good thought for the day after Thanksgiving--we should ALWAYS give thanks, not just on a special holiday!
I am thankful for the family who gathered yesterday. All of us were there, except for one who is living out of state, and her mother travels to her today, so I am sure she will hear of our group and the fine time we had.
It was nice to have everyone from young to old together. There was a bounty of food, of course, and lots of shared conversations. There were memories and plans to share. The little ones entertained everyone, and pictures were taken to record this date and fix it in our memories for Thanksgivings to come.
So today, we begin another year before the official day of thanks comes again. We need to be careful to find the time to give thanks EVERY day for God is good, and our lives are indeed a blessing.
Prayer: Lord, help me to be more thankful for my blessings every day of every month. I am especially grateful for this special holiday of Thanksgiving and for the days of Advent, leading to our celebration of the birth of Your son. But I also want to acknowledge the gratitude I feel for the little blessings in my life every day.
Amen
Thursday, November 28, 2013
Thanksgiving
Matthew 28: 6 He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.
Well, this is news for Thanksgiving, isn't it? The angel comforts the Marys; the same angel who made the guards shake and act like dead men. They must have been shaken, but they followed his directions. They were the first to spread the good news.
God is so faithful to us, and Jesus was so faithful to God. If only we could say the same. We know our faults, and we know God will always be there to pick up the pieces. Thanks be to God!
Prayer: Thank you, God, for the ultimate gift of Your son, Jesus. We are so fortunate to have You on our side. Help us to be more faithful.
Amen
Well, this is news for Thanksgiving, isn't it? The angel comforts the Marys; the same angel who made the guards shake and act like dead men. They must have been shaken, but they followed his directions. They were the first to spread the good news.
God is so faithful to us, and Jesus was so faithful to God. If only we could say the same. We know our faults, and we know God will always be there to pick up the pieces. Thanks be to God!
Prayer: Thank you, God, for the ultimate gift of Your son, Jesus. We are so fortunate to have You on our side. Help us to be more faithful.
Amen
Wednesday, November 27, 2013
November 27, 2013
Matthew 27: 53 They came out of the tombs after Jesus’ resurrection and[e] went into the holy city and appeared to many people.
Why don't I remember this part? I have read Matthew many times, I have heard many crucifixion sermons, and yet, I don't recall ever thinking about the faithful dead who rose at Jesus's death. It is a pretty amazing story, with an earthquake opening the tombs and the dead rising and going into town.
I remember Joseph of Arimethea asking for the body and putting it in a new tomb. Then everyone goes home and waits for the Sabbath to be over. Nothing at all about dead people rising....
This seems so significant to those of us who anticipate eternal life. I have heard talk about the thief who was crucified with Christ being the only person we KNOW is in heaven. Why, then, doesn't anyone talk about the first believers who rose from the dead?
Prayer: Lord, there is so much within Scripture that we miss. Guide my Bible study so that I can get the most out of it. I am thankful for the risen dead, and all that they imply for believers today.
Amen
Why don't I remember this part? I have read Matthew many times, I have heard many crucifixion sermons, and yet, I don't recall ever thinking about the faithful dead who rose at Jesus's death. It is a pretty amazing story, with an earthquake opening the tombs and the dead rising and going into town.
I remember Joseph of Arimethea asking for the body and putting it in a new tomb. Then everyone goes home and waits for the Sabbath to be over. Nothing at all about dead people rising....
This seems so significant to those of us who anticipate eternal life. I have heard talk about the thief who was crucified with Christ being the only person we KNOW is in heaven. Why, then, doesn't anyone talk about the first believers who rose from the dead?
Prayer: Lord, there is so much within Scripture that we miss. Guide my Bible study so that I can get the most out of it. I am thankful for the risen dead, and all that they imply for believers today.
Amen
Tuesday, November 26, 2013
November 26, 2013
Matthew 23: 3 So you must be careful to do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach.
Jesus speaks of the Pharisees. He is warning against those who are holy on the outside, but are rotten on the inside. They make a great show of religion, but they do not practice its basic principles.
I am taking this a step farther. I am not content with being a follower of any man; I want to follow God's own guidance for me. I should not worship anyone, despite how awesome they appear to be, b/c I can only worship God. I listen to God's voice in my ear; I will appreciate the efforts of those who speak on their own experiences with God and His word, but in the end, I must follow my own path.
Prayer: Lord, let me follow only You. Guide me to Your truth for me. I can learn so much from those who have made their faith their calling in life. Finally, however, I must depend on my personal relationship with You to guide my days and my ways.
Amen
Jesus speaks of the Pharisees. He is warning against those who are holy on the outside, but are rotten on the inside. They make a great show of religion, but they do not practice its basic principles.
I am taking this a step farther. I am not content with being a follower of any man; I want to follow God's own guidance for me. I should not worship anyone, despite how awesome they appear to be, b/c I can only worship God. I listen to God's voice in my ear; I will appreciate the efforts of those who speak on their own experiences with God and His word, but in the end, I must follow my own path.
Prayer: Lord, let me follow only You. Guide me to Your truth for me. I can learn so much from those who have made their faith their calling in life. Finally, however, I must depend on my personal relationship with You to guide my days and my ways.
Amen
Monday, November 25, 2013
November 25, 2013
Matthew 21: 22 If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.”
Jesus has made the fig tree wither. When the disciples ask how it withered so quickly, Jesus told them basically that killing a tree is small potatoes when you have faith.
It is not easy to have that kind of faith. If it was, we would not see the level of tragedy we see in this world. The world makes us doubt. Our faith is weakened.
And, yet, we know of people with great faith who are helpless to change things in this world. We must count on the next world to strengthen us, b/c we are weak in this one.
Prayer: Lord, I believe, and I ask for so many things in my daily prayer. I ask for healing and comfort for those I care about, and even for others who my friends care about. I ask for relief from poverty and suffering. I look around, and the suffering and pain go on. Strengthen my faith, that I might be more able to pray and receive what I ask for.
Amen
Sunday, November 24, 2013
November 24, 2013
Matthew 18: 4 Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
I was thinking about this very thing when I awoke this AM. I was thinking about people who treat others as though they were better than them. The movie I watched last night ("Pieces of April") put this in my mind. I was taking the position of the one who is belittled, judged and found wanting.
How hard it is to be in that position! I guess it makes sense that the person who is considered the lowest would be the one to be most in need of God. And, being in need of God, they are most likely to call out to Him and to receive His blessings.
At the time of our entry into heaven, then, this lowest person will be the greatest one in heaven, while the rest of us consider all the ways we relied on our own selves and put others down.
Prayer: Lord, help me to be more considerate of those who have been judged as the least; guide my words and actions in such a way to lift them up. Help me to be more forgiving of those who judge me as well.
Amen
I was thinking about this very thing when I awoke this AM. I was thinking about people who treat others as though they were better than them. The movie I watched last night ("Pieces of April") put this in my mind. I was taking the position of the one who is belittled, judged and found wanting.
How hard it is to be in that position! I guess it makes sense that the person who is considered the lowest would be the one to be most in need of God. And, being in need of God, they are most likely to call out to Him and to receive His blessings.
At the time of our entry into heaven, then, this lowest person will be the greatest one in heaven, while the rest of us consider all the ways we relied on our own selves and put others down.
Prayer: Lord, help me to be more considerate of those who have been judged as the least; guide my words and actions in such a way to lift them up. Help me to be more forgiving of those who judge me as well.
Amen
Saturday, November 23, 2013
November 23, 2013
Matthew 16: 18 And I tell you that you are Peter,[b] and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades[c] will not overcome it.
Simon is now Peter, the rock. He has expressed his faith that Jesus is the Messiah. On this kind of faith, the church is built.
Now I am worried about the church. So much good is done by churches, but membership is falling. Young people, especially, don't see the value of the church. The gates of Hades may not overcome the church, but how can it--we really--overcome apathy? Even young adults with faith do not see the church as a necessity in their faith walk.
Prayer: Lord, I pray for Your church. It has lasted for thousands of years, but it is threatened by trends in today's world. I know the power of a good church, and I pray that others will see that as well. Help me to do what I can to strengthen my church and all Christian churches.
Amen
Simon is now Peter, the rock. He has expressed his faith that Jesus is the Messiah. On this kind of faith, the church is built.
Now I am worried about the church. So much good is done by churches, but membership is falling. Young people, especially, don't see the value of the church. The gates of Hades may not overcome the church, but how can it--we really--overcome apathy? Even young adults with faith do not see the church as a necessity in their faith walk.
Prayer: Lord, I pray for Your church. It has lasted for thousands of years, but it is threatened by trends in today's world. I know the power of a good church, and I pray that others will see that as well. Help me to do what I can to strengthen my church and all Christian churches.
Amen
Friday, November 22, 2013
November 22, 2013
Matthew 11: 25 At that time Jesus said, “I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children."
The self-interest factor rises again in this passage. Although they are witness to the miracles, those in power fail to get the underlying message. Instead, all they see is the threat to their positions, and they must stop the threat by any means necessary.
The little children, the powerless, have less to protect. They are more open to the truth of the message. They come to know the Father through the Son. This is still true today.
Prayer: Let my eyes be opened, Lord, that I may see You as a little child, as one whose power is nothing compared to the awesome power of Your kingdom. Open my heart to receive Your truths.
Amen
The self-interest factor rises again in this passage. Although they are witness to the miracles, those in power fail to get the underlying message. Instead, all they see is the threat to their positions, and they must stop the threat by any means necessary.
The little children, the powerless, have less to protect. They are more open to the truth of the message. They come to know the Father through the Son. This is still true today.
Prayer: Let my eyes be opened, Lord, that I may see You as a little child, as one whose power is nothing compared to the awesome power of Your kingdom. Open my heart to receive Your truths.
Amen
Thursday, November 21, 2013
November 21, 2013
John 8: 8 The centurion replied, “Lord, I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. But just say the word, and my servant will be healed."
Jesus heals all kinds of people in today's passages. This is the one who stood out for me. He doesn't want healing for himself, but for his servant. He knows the power of God, b/c he doesn't ask Jesus to come over and heal the servant; he knows that physical presence isn't the necessary ingredient. He has more faith than that--he knows Jesus can heal even when he is not physically present.
I know so many who need healing. They need healing of mind and body; I know the power of prayer. I pray for my friends and family.
Prayer: Lord, guide Your healing hands towards those I care about. Give them comfort, give them strength and endurance, be with them as they recover. I know all that You can do, and I humbly beseech you in Jesus's name.
Amen
Jesus heals all kinds of people in today's passages. This is the one who stood out for me. He doesn't want healing for himself, but for his servant. He knows the power of God, b/c he doesn't ask Jesus to come over and heal the servant; he knows that physical presence isn't the necessary ingredient. He has more faith than that--he knows Jesus can heal even when he is not physically present.
I know so many who need healing. They need healing of mind and body; I know the power of prayer. I pray for my friends and family.
Prayer: Lord, guide Your healing hands towards those I care about. Give them comfort, give them strength and endurance, be with them as they recover. I know all that You can do, and I humbly beseech you in Jesus's name.
Amen
Wednesday, November 20, 2013
November 20, 2013
Matthew 5: 13 “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot."
This part of Matthew is so full of great advice from Jesus. Yet this is the verse that spoke to me today. It is so easy to neglect your faith. You lose your saltiness, and what is your value then?
Yesterday I turned in my letter of resignation, announcing my intent to retire at the end of this school year. I know I will be a better human being when I am relieved from the stresses of this job. I have really enjoyed my career, but I get caught up in the "day-to-day" demands and I neglect my spirituality. I pray I will be "saltier" than ever next year! ;)
Prayer: Lord, do not allow me to be lukewarm. Keep my saltiness intact. I want to be a follower of Yours more than anything else. Remove the blocks that eclipse my clear view of You.
Amen
This part of Matthew is so full of great advice from Jesus. Yet this is the verse that spoke to me today. It is so easy to neglect your faith. You lose your saltiness, and what is your value then?
Yesterday I turned in my letter of resignation, announcing my intent to retire at the end of this school year. I know I will be a better human being when I am relieved from the stresses of this job. I have really enjoyed my career, but I get caught up in the "day-to-day" demands and I neglect my spirituality. I pray I will be "saltier" than ever next year! ;)
Prayer: Lord, do not allow me to be lukewarm. Keep my saltiness intact. I want to be a follower of Yours more than anything else. Remove the blocks that eclipse my clear view of You.
Amen
Tuesday, November 19, 2013
November 19, 2013
Matthew 2: 13 When they had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. “Get up,” he said, “take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him.”
I am blown away by Joseph's ability to discern and follow the words of the angels. First, he believes the angel who tells him to marry Mary despite her pregnancy and honors his Maker. Then once the child is born, he flees to Egypt to protect mother and child again. Most people wouldn't do this-- uproot everything in their own lives to follow the Lord. They would rationalize a way to make a decision that protected their own self-interest.
I hope and pray that I can be open to God's voice in my life as well.
Prayer: Lord, deliver me from the voice inside my head that protects the status quo, even when Your voice is calling me elsewhere. Let me follow You and not what seems to be the safe course in my mind. Like all Your people, I stray from Your guidance at times. I want to be more faithful.
Amen
I am blown away by Joseph's ability to discern and follow the words of the angels. First, he believes the angel who tells him to marry Mary despite her pregnancy and honors his Maker. Then once the child is born, he flees to Egypt to protect mother and child again. Most people wouldn't do this-- uproot everything in their own lives to follow the Lord. They would rationalize a way to make a decision that protected their own self-interest.
I hope and pray that I can be open to God's voice in my life as well.
Prayer: Lord, deliver me from the voice inside my head that protects the status quo, even when Your voice is calling me elsewhere. Let me follow You and not what seems to be the safe course in my mind. Like all Your people, I stray from Your guidance at times. I want to be more faithful.
Amen
Monday, November 18, 2013
Nov. 18, 2013
Psalm 124: 8 Our help is in the name of the Lord,
the Maker of heaven and earth.
We have weathered the storm overnight. I went to sleep with the wind and rain all around my house. I woke up to see the power had flickered, but, praise God, had come back on about midnight.
God was with us through the storm, and he is with me this AM as well. I am starting a new week with optimism, b/c I know I have His help to make it through whatever happens. I have the confidence of a true child of God. I remember when worries plagued me, and the "what-ifs" spoiled my pleasure in daily life--no more! God is good all the time. All the time God is good.
Prayer: Today I am grateful, Lord, for your help in times of trouble. I am so thankful that I know where to turn when the going gets rough. I place my worries in Your holy hands, and I find relief.
Amen
the Maker of heaven and earth.
We have weathered the storm overnight. I went to sleep with the wind and rain all around my house. I woke up to see the power had flickered, but, praise God, had come back on about midnight.
God was with us through the storm, and he is with me this AM as well. I am starting a new week with optimism, b/c I know I have His help to make it through whatever happens. I have the confidence of a true child of God. I remember when worries plagued me, and the "what-ifs" spoiled my pleasure in daily life--no more! God is good all the time. All the time God is good.
Prayer: Today I am grateful, Lord, for your help in times of trouble. I am so thankful that I know where to turn when the going gets rough. I place my worries in Your holy hands, and I find relief.
Amen
Sunday, November 17, 2013
November 17, 2013
2 Corinthians 9: 7 Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.
I had to choose 2 verses today, b/c they are one complete thought. Paul is in the midst of running a church, and he is trying to get the members to give to the church as they had promised.
It is a sticky situation; one that all churches find themselves in. So much damage has been done by those who exploit the giving nature of believers. Paul brings it home, as far as I am concerned. Give in the way you are moved to give, cheerfully, and God will bless you in every way imaginable.
A wise cashier said it to me once, regarding those who were begging for money outside the store where she worked: " I give it, and that is good for me. If they misuse it, that is bad for them." I don't give to every beggar I meet, but I see her point, and I give cheerfully to my church and to others whose need I see.
Prayer: Lord, guide my giving, as you guide every step of my life. Let me see the need in this world that I can relieve through my cheerful gifts. Bless me abundantly.
Amen
I had to choose 2 verses today, b/c they are one complete thought. Paul is in the midst of running a church, and he is trying to get the members to give to the church as they had promised.
It is a sticky situation; one that all churches find themselves in. So much damage has been done by those who exploit the giving nature of believers. Paul brings it home, as far as I am concerned. Give in the way you are moved to give, cheerfully, and God will bless you in every way imaginable.
A wise cashier said it to me once, regarding those who were begging for money outside the store where she worked: " I give it, and that is good for me. If they misuse it, that is bad for them." I don't give to every beggar I meet, but I see her point, and I give cheerfully to my church and to others whose need I see.
Prayer: Lord, guide my giving, as you guide every step of my life. Let me see the need in this world that I can relieve through my cheerful gifts. Bless me abundantly.
Amen
Saturday, November 16, 2013
November 16, 2013
2 Corinthians 6: 10 sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; poor, yet making many rich; having nothing, and yet possessing everything.
Oh, that Paul surely does have a way with words! These are some of his best--we live in this world and are yet not of it, so we surely are sorrowful, and yet we rejoice in the Lord. We may not have all the material wealth, and yet we make many rich with the example of our life in Christ, so that they may become believers as well. We may not have all the items we desire, and yet we have the key to Eternal Life.
Prayer: Lord, I thank you and rejoice in all my faith provides me. I may not have much nor am I rich, but I have all I need in this world and the next.
Amen
Oh, that Paul surely does have a way with words! These are some of his best--we live in this world and are yet not of it, so we surely are sorrowful, and yet we rejoice in the Lord. We may not have all the material wealth, and yet we make many rich with the example of our life in Christ, so that they may become believers as well. We may not have all the items we desire, and yet we have the key to Eternal Life.
Prayer: Lord, I thank you and rejoice in all my faith provides me. I may not have much nor am I rich, but I have all I need in this world and the next.
Amen
Friday, November 15, 2013
Nov. 15, 2013
2 Corinthians 2: 10 Anyone you forgive, I also forgive. And what I have forgiven—if there was anything to forgive—I have forgiven in the sight of Christ for your sake.
A slim pickings kind of day...I had trouble finding a verse. I took this one b/c I like the mutual forgiveness, although I had trouble with Paul's tone in general on this post.
It is appealing to think you would have this kind of relationship with another Christian. Except for Elaine and sometimes Mother, I don't think I do. I am not sure why I have not gotten closer to people in my church, but I am sad that my relationships with some who I thought of as friends in Christ later turned into hurt for me.
But ultimately it is the right thing to do when you forgive. I can forgive b/c of my faith. That is a real strength, and it offers so much comfort to me.
Prayer: Lord, help me forgive. Let me move into forgiveness swiftly and without harmful acts in the meantime. Help me to forgive for your sake as well as my own.
Amen
A slim pickings kind of day...I had trouble finding a verse. I took this one b/c I like the mutual forgiveness, although I had trouble with Paul's tone in general on this post.
It is appealing to think you would have this kind of relationship with another Christian. Except for Elaine and sometimes Mother, I don't think I do. I am not sure why I have not gotten closer to people in my church, but I am sad that my relationships with some who I thought of as friends in Christ later turned into hurt for me.
But ultimately it is the right thing to do when you forgive. I can forgive b/c of my faith. That is a real strength, and it offers so much comfort to me.
Prayer: Lord, help me forgive. Let me move into forgiveness swiftly and without harmful acts in the meantime. Help me to forgive for your sake as well as my own.
Amen
Thursday, November 14, 2013
Nov. 14, 2013
Psalm 149: 4 For the Lord takes delight in his people;
he crowns the humble with victory.
I like the "humble" reference. We humble ourselves when we become God's people. God is delighted with us, and we receive His blessings. Victory indeed!
Prayer: Thank you, God, for Your blessings on Your people. We acknowledge Your mighty power and our many frailties.
Amen
he crowns the humble with victory.
I like the "humble" reference. We humble ourselves when we become God's people. God is delighted with us, and we receive His blessings. Victory indeed!
Prayer: Thank you, God, for Your blessings on Your people. We acknowledge Your mighty power and our many frailties.
Amen
Wednesday, November 13, 2013
November 13, 2013
1 Corinthians 13: 3 If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast,[b] but do not have love, I gain nothing.
Acts are not the final answer. It is the feeling that matters. You can be VERY good, causing everyone to admire your dedication, but if the feeling isn't there, so what? You have gained nothing.
Love is described so well by Paul. It is tough to live up to that. You can't keep score of rights and wrongs; you must be patient. That so goes against our human inclination. It is so hard to let go, to wait for someone you love, to forgive those who have hurt you or others you care for. But that is just what we are called to do.
Good thing faith strengthens us. We need all the help we can get.
Prayer: Lord, help me to love your people in they way you direct me to. Let me get past my own hurt feelings to find the depth of feeling love that makes me more like You.
Amen
Acts are not the final answer. It is the feeling that matters. You can be VERY good, causing everyone to admire your dedication, but if the feeling isn't there, so what? You have gained nothing.
Love is described so well by Paul. It is tough to live up to that. You can't keep score of rights and wrongs; you must be patient. That so goes against our human inclination. It is so hard to let go, to wait for someone you love, to forgive those who have hurt you or others you care for. But that is just what we are called to do.
Good thing faith strengthens us. We need all the help we can get.
Prayer: Lord, help me to love your people in they way you direct me to. Let me get past my own hurt feelings to find the depth of feeling love that makes me more like You.
Amen
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
11-12-13
1 Corinthians 12:26 If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it.
Paul talks about the body of Christ, our church. Our own church has suffered; I did suffer with it, but maybe I did not do enough to honor it instead.
I do love so much about our church. I love that we are socially aware, that we offer opportunities to the larger community, and there are many people there who are the very best kind of Christian.
We have lost so many members, however, to death, to moves, to the controversy that split us apart. I would like to see our church reach the honor it deserves, and I pledge to do what I can to restore it.
Prayer: Lord, help me to build your body, the church. Let me do what I can to bring it honor.
Amen
Paul talks about the body of Christ, our church. Our own church has suffered; I did suffer with it, but maybe I did not do enough to honor it instead.
I do love so much about our church. I love that we are socially aware, that we offer opportunities to the larger community, and there are many people there who are the very best kind of Christian.
We have lost so many members, however, to death, to moves, to the controversy that split us apart. I would like to see our church reach the honor it deserves, and I pledge to do what I can to restore it.
Prayer: Lord, help me to build your body, the church. Let me do what I can to bring it honor.
Amen
Monday, November 11, 2013
November 11, 2013
1 Corinthians 10: 17 Because there is one loaf, we, who are many, are one body, for we all share the one loaf.
Best of Paul; worst of Paul. This verse suggests the hymn "One Bread, One Body," which I find very inspiring. Then Paul starts with the men are better than women stuff. How can he be so polarizing to me?
Well, I will stick with the positive. Paul reminds us that, as Christians, we are as one. We need to look out for each other and the church. We need to represent Christ well.
Prayer: Lord, guide me to find the inspiration in your word without becoming irate at your servant, Paul. I know that he was only a man, but so much of his writings are so inspired, and then I hit a stumbling block. Give me the wisdom to understand the writing and the writer.
Amen
Best of Paul; worst of Paul. This verse suggests the hymn "One Bread, One Body," which I find very inspiring. Then Paul starts with the men are better than women stuff. How can he be so polarizing to me?
Well, I will stick with the positive. Paul reminds us that, as Christians, we are as one. We need to look out for each other and the church. We need to represent Christ well.
Prayer: Lord, guide me to find the inspiration in your word without becoming irate at your servant, Paul. I know that he was only a man, but so much of his writings are so inspired, and then I hit a stumbling block. Give me the wisdom to understand the writing and the writer.
Amen
Friday, November 8, 2013
Nov. 8, 2013
1 Corinthians 1: 28 God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are.
This is about who gets the gift of faith. God didn't present himself to the mighty in the early days of the church. Paul, Peter, and the others went to the lowly people, the unimportant ones, b/c they were ready to accept the gift. Others had interests to protect which put a wall around their souls so that they couldn't see the truth.
I think of those people of faith today who are like this. There are some who mouth the words but do not act in the way of faith, b/c their influence and power satisfy them. And there are those who mourn, who suffer, who struggle in every way imaginable, and they need the faith. They accept the gift, and they grow b/c of it.
Prayer: Lord, I am blessed to have the gift of faith. I suffered through the struggles of my life, and they left me open to let You in. I have been comforted time and again. Thank you for always being there for me.
Amen
This is about who gets the gift of faith. God didn't present himself to the mighty in the early days of the church. Paul, Peter, and the others went to the lowly people, the unimportant ones, b/c they were ready to accept the gift. Others had interests to protect which put a wall around their souls so that they couldn't see the truth.
I think of those people of faith today who are like this. There are some who mouth the words but do not act in the way of faith, b/c their influence and power satisfy them. And there are those who mourn, who suffer, who struggle in every way imaginable, and they need the faith. They accept the gift, and they grow b/c of it.
Prayer: Lord, I am blessed to have the gift of faith. I suffered through the struggles of my life, and they left me open to let You in. I have been comforted time and again. Thank you for always being there for me.
Amen
Thursday, November 7, 2013
Nov. 7, 2013
Job 31: 39 if I have devoured its (the land) yield without payment or broken the spirit of its tenants
Job finishes his defense of his actions by talking about the land. It goes so well with my FB thankfulness statement for today!
God has made us stewards of his land. First we must acknowledge how great an honor that is. Our land is beautiful and fertile. We are kept alive from its bounty. We are obligated to do what is best for the land, for ourselves and future generations.
The people living on God's land are His people. We must also honor their spirits. We must meet everyone with love.
Prayer: Lord, I honor Your land and the people who on it. I pray for guidance to act in ways which build up both.
Amen
Job finishes his defense of his actions by talking about the land. It goes so well with my FB thankfulness statement for today!
God has made us stewards of his land. First we must acknowledge how great an honor that is. Our land is beautiful and fertile. We are kept alive from its bounty. We are obligated to do what is best for the land, for ourselves and future generations.
The people living on God's land are His people. We must also honor their spirits. We must meet everyone with love.
Prayer: Lord, I honor Your land and the people who on it. I pray for guidance to act in ways which build up both.
Amen
Wednesday, November 6, 2013
Nov. 6, 2013
Galatians 4: 7 So you are no longer a slave, but God’s child; and since you are his child, God has made you also an heir.
Paul tells us that all people were held in slavery, like children with no understanding, until Christ came. Now we are heirs of God--fully able to inherit all His goodness and mercy.
The Galatians were seeking Law--rules to live by to prove their obedience to God. Paul says we don't need the ancient Law any more; we just need to accept the gift God gave us in Christ.
It is so easy, and it is so hard. To fully accept the gift of Christian faith, we must give up our selfish desires for the greater good. This flies in the face of human instinct. It is a constant struggle, and it is struggle enough, without worrying about rules of Law.
Prayer: Lord, help me to fully accept the gift of love you gave me when you sent your son to save me. Help me to see my world not in terms of Law but in terms of Love.
Amen
Paul tells us that all people were held in slavery, like children with no understanding, until Christ came. Now we are heirs of God--fully able to inherit all His goodness and mercy.
The Galatians were seeking Law--rules to live by to prove their obedience to God. Paul says we don't need the ancient Law any more; we just need to accept the gift God gave us in Christ.
It is so easy, and it is so hard. To fully accept the gift of Christian faith, we must give up our selfish desires for the greater good. This flies in the face of human instinct. It is a constant struggle, and it is struggle enough, without worrying about rules of Law.
Prayer: Lord, help me to fully accept the gift of love you gave me when you sent your son to save me. Help me to see my world not in terms of Law but in terms of Love.
Amen
Tuesday, November 5, 2013
Nov. 5, 2013
Job 28: 20 But where can wisdom be found? Where does understanding dwell?
Job is summarizing. He explains his understanding of the world. He is an amazing speaker; even after all he has been through, his thought process and his choice of words are unbelievable.
He knows how the world works, and he knows that nothing in this world is the source of wisdom. God is the only true source of wisdom and understanding. We cannot, should not, be overly attached to anything in this world. The answers we seek are in heaven.
Prayer: Lord, remind me that You are the ultimate source of wisdom and understanding. Let me follow Your path so that my life is a gift back to You in return for the gift of faith You have given me. Amen
Job is summarizing. He explains his understanding of the world. He is an amazing speaker; even after all he has been through, his thought process and his choice of words are unbelievable.
He knows how the world works, and he knows that nothing in this world is the source of wisdom. God is the only true source of wisdom and understanding. We cannot, should not, be overly attached to anything in this world. The answers we seek are in heaven.
Prayer: Lord, remind me that You are the ultimate source of wisdom and understanding. Let me follow Your path so that my life is a gift back to You in return for the gift of faith You have given me. Amen
Monday, November 4, 2013
Nov. 4, 2013
Mark 15:
14 “Why? What crime has he committed?” asked Pilate.
But they shouted all the louder, “Crucify him!”
Mass hysteria has ensued. The crowd has been driven into a frenzy. Pilate knows he is doing wrong, but he just wants it to be over.
How many times have I shrugged my shoulders and just wished for the bad times to be over? Have I let wrong be done b/c I didn't have the courage, the fortitude, to stand up for right? Have I let the feeling of belonging allow me to be carried into a place of wrongdoing just so I can feel validated by those who surround me?
Prayer: O, Lord, let me stand for what is right, even when it is a struggle to continue the good fight. Lord, help me to know when it is time to distance myself from the crowd and stand up against the majority who are misguided. Let me, above all, know and follow Your will, b/c that will always be the better choice.
Amen
14 “Why? What crime has he committed?” asked Pilate.
But they shouted all the louder, “Crucify him!”
Mass hysteria has ensued. The crowd has been driven into a frenzy. Pilate knows he is doing wrong, but he just wants it to be over.
How many times have I shrugged my shoulders and just wished for the bad times to be over? Have I let wrong be done b/c I didn't have the courage, the fortitude, to stand up for right? Have I let the feeling of belonging allow me to be carried into a place of wrongdoing just so I can feel validated by those who surround me?
Prayer: O, Lord, let me stand for what is right, even when it is a struggle to continue the good fight. Lord, help me to know when it is time to distance myself from the crowd and stand up against the majority who are misguided. Let me, above all, know and follow Your will, b/c that will always be the better choice.
Amen
Sunday, November 3, 2013
November 3, 2013
Mark 14: 36 “Abba,[f] Father,” he said, “everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will.”
This is the ultimate in "thy will be done." Jesus knows just how bad it will be. As a man, he cannot want to face what it going to happen. As God's son, he does it anyway.
Often I want the "cup" I am facing taken from me. I want no more pain, no more suffering for those I love and for myself. I want easy guidance in making the hard decisions.
I need to spend less time trying to make everything all right and more seeking my Father's will and following it.
Prayer: I rejoice that I have a Father in heaven for whom nothing is impossible. I know His will is the best path possible. Guide me to that path, Lord.
Amen
This is the ultimate in "thy will be done." Jesus knows just how bad it will be. As a man, he cannot want to face what it going to happen. As God's son, he does it anyway.
Often I want the "cup" I am facing taken from me. I want no more pain, no more suffering for those I love and for myself. I want easy guidance in making the hard decisions.
I need to spend less time trying to make everything all right and more seeking my Father's will and following it.
Prayer: I rejoice that I have a Father in heaven for whom nothing is impossible. I know His will is the best path possible. Guide me to that path, Lord.
Amen
Friday, November 1, 2013
Nov. 1, 2013
Mark 9:
24 Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!”
I love this man. I know how he feels. The world has this effect on all of us. We believe, and yet we have unbelief too.
Also in this passage is the rich man who cannot sell everything he owns to follow Jesus. I love him too. There are times when I cannot give something up to follow Jesus. I am too tied to my sins and self-interest.
Prayer: Lord, guide me to a life filled with belief; a life which is so full of You that the little things of Earthly life do not matter, and I can follow you completely.
Amen
24 Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!”
I love this man. I know how he feels. The world has this effect on all of us. We believe, and yet we have unbelief too.
Also in this passage is the rich man who cannot sell everything he owns to follow Jesus. I love him too. There are times when I cannot give something up to follow Jesus. I am too tied to my sins and self-interest.
Prayer: Lord, guide me to a life filled with belief; a life which is so full of You that the little things of Earthly life do not matter, and I can follow you completely.
Amen
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