What You're Called
By MaryBeth Whalen
"To them I will give within my temple and its walls a memorial and a name better than sons and daughters; I will give them an everlasting name that will not be cut off." Isaiah 56:5 (NIV)
Devotion:
Recently, my fifteen-year-old son posted this quote on our refrigerator message board:
It's not what you're called, it's what you're called to do.
After I read what he wrote, I thought about the message contained in that short thought. I thought about how that is exactly the way God sees us. There are many examples of this in the Bible, but I thought specifically of two.
When Gideon is hiding out threshing wheat in a winepress, the angel of the Lord comes to him and says, "The Lord is with you, mighty warrior." (Judges 6:12) Later, Gideon reveals that he is far from a mighty warrior. Instead he sees himself as a least of these. He says, "How can I save Israel ? My clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my family" (Judges 6:15). The angel of the Lord looked past what Gideon was called or how he saw himself. Instead he focused on what Gideon was called to do. He didn't see a least of these, he saw a mighty warrior. He knew that Gideon had that potential within him if he would only trust God and take a step of faith. Gideon did, and a nation was saved.
Peter was the other example that came to my mind. Peter's name was Simon, which meant "shifty." But that is not what Jesus saw. He saw the potential within Peter. He immediately changed Peter's name from Simon to Cephas (or, Peter), which means "rock" (John 1:42). Jesus looked past what Peter was called, to what He knew Peter would be called to do. Indeed, after Jesus' ascension, Peter led the early church, preaching at Pentecost and rising to the calling on his life as the rock on which Jesus would build His church.
These stories bring me comfort as I think of the things I have been called in my life--the things I have believed about myself. I think of my shortcomings and my past, and I know that apart from God, I can do no good thing. My only hope is in the transformation God can and will work within me, day by day. In my own strength, I will always be a least of these, shifty and of no account. But in God's hands, I can be a mighty warrior, a rock.
God doesn't see me as I am, He sees me as I can be. He doesn't leave us as we are, but renews us with each new day. It isn't what I am called, it's what I am called to do. I must remember that so I can become what God has already determined I can be.
Dear Lord, help me to see myself as You see me, not as what I have believed about myself in the past. Help me to hear Your voice speaking my real name. Help me to fulfill my calling so I can bring glory and honor to Your name. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Related Resources:
Beautiful in God's Eyes by Elizabeth George
Do You Know Him?
Shaped With Purpose by Renee Swope
Marybeth Whalen's blog
Application Steps:
What names do you call yourself? Write them down. What names do you believe God wants you to be called? Cross out the old names and write down the new ones! Under that, write, "It isn't what I am called, it's what I am called to do."
Reflections:
Is there something you have believed about yourself that is not true?
What obstacles stand between the Truth about your calling and your past perceptions? Pray and ask God to remove those obstacles so you can see the potential He sees.
Power Verses:
Ephesians 2:10, "For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." (NIV)
Ephesians 3:22-24, "You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness." (NIV)
Proverbs 31 Ministries
616-G, Matthews-Mint Hill Road
Matthews, NC 28105
www.Proverbs31.org
Thursday, October 18, 2007
The Purpose of Crucibles
The Purpose of Crucibles
By Os Hillman
The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but the Lord tests the heart.
Proverbs 17:3
This proverb describes one of God's strangest mysteries. It is a description of God's formula to refine the human heart in order to bring out its finest qualities. The significant leaders who make the greatest mark for the Kingdom had to experience their own crucible and fire. Without it, the dross can never be removed from the human heart. Without it, the encumbrances weigh us down. God understands the human heart. He understands that for us to become all that He hopes for us, there are seasons of fire. Joseph went through many tests. Succeeding in the test qualified him for greater responsibility. The greater the use in the Kingdom the greater the crucible to prepare the right foundation. Some of God's greatest crucibles are found in the marketplace where we live every day: the employee who betrays our trust, the client who refuses to pay, the vendor who falls short of our expectations.
Each of these is God's tests to find out how we will respond. What tests are being brought your way today? His grace has been provided that we might pass the tests that He brings before us. Should we fail, we need not fear. His grace is sufficient for this as well. Ask God for the grace to walk with Him in whatever tests He has placed before you this day. He is able to accomplish what He wants for you.
Deuteronomy 8:2
Remember how the LORD your God led you all the way in the desert these forty years, to humble you and to test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep his commands.
By Os Hillman
The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but the Lord tests the heart.
Proverbs 17:3
This proverb describes one of God's strangest mysteries. It is a description of God's formula to refine the human heart in order to bring out its finest qualities. The significant leaders who make the greatest mark for the Kingdom had to experience their own crucible and fire. Without it, the dross can never be removed from the human heart. Without it, the encumbrances weigh us down. God understands the human heart. He understands that for us to become all that He hopes for us, there are seasons of fire. Joseph went through many tests. Succeeding in the test qualified him for greater responsibility. The greater the use in the Kingdom the greater the crucible to prepare the right foundation. Some of God's greatest crucibles are found in the marketplace where we live every day: the employee who betrays our trust, the client who refuses to pay, the vendor who falls short of our expectations.
Each of these is God's tests to find out how we will respond. What tests are being brought your way today? His grace has been provided that we might pass the tests that He brings before us. Should we fail, we need not fear. His grace is sufficient for this as well. Ask God for the grace to walk with Him in whatever tests He has placed before you this day. He is able to accomplish what He wants for you.
Deuteronomy 8:2
Remember how the LORD your God led you all the way in the desert these forty years, to humble you and to test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep his commands.
When Plans are Thwarted
When Plans are Thwarted
by Os Hillman, October 13, 2007
But the prince of the Persian kingdom resisted me twenty-one days. Then Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, because I was detained there with the king of Persia. - Daniel 10:13
I left at 5:00 a.m. to fly to another city to present some possible joint initiatives in ministry with another organization. I would have only an hour or so to meet with the board. I got into the city and taxied to the hotel. This is great, I thought. No glitches. I am even here an hour early. I asked where the meeting was. There was no record of such a meeting, even though my contact was staying at the hotel. I made several calls, to no avail. What had I missed? I continued trying to reach someone. An hour and a half later I reached my wife. She located a letter that seemed to indicate the meeting might be downtown. I took a cab and arrived at the location. "I am sorry, sir, there are no seventh-floor offices in use yet in this building."
"That cannot be. My letter says different." After I insisted, she let me go up. I arrived on the seventh floor. Nothing but concrete. Perplexed, I called my wife again. We made contact with yet another person who gave us another number to call. Finally, we located where the meeting was taking place. I got into the cab for another $30 cab ride. Forty-five minutes later the cab driver was lost. We stopped at a dry cleaners and he asked the people there, where the street was located. I was past the point of anger. I was laughing at this situation. A few minutes later, we arrived at our destination, three and a half hours after our scheduled time.
Plans do not always go as we hope. Sometimes they are hindered for our purposes. Sometimes we are dealing in a spiritual realm in which we realize we are truly in a spiritual battle. And sometimes we are even hindered to protect us. After looking at this situation, I believe I was being hindered from getting to this meeting. However, perseverance and God's grace allowed me to make the meeting. Important initiatives resulted from the brief time I was there.
The next time your plans are thwarted, begin asking what is at the root of the calamities. Ask God for discernment on what is taking place. Just as He revealed to Daniel, God will show you what is behind such events.
by Os Hillman, October 13, 2007
But the prince of the Persian kingdom resisted me twenty-one days. Then Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, because I was detained there with the king of Persia. - Daniel 10:13
I left at 5:00 a.m. to fly to another city to present some possible joint initiatives in ministry with another organization. I would have only an hour or so to meet with the board. I got into the city and taxied to the hotel. This is great, I thought. No glitches. I am even here an hour early. I asked where the meeting was. There was no record of such a meeting, even though my contact was staying at the hotel. I made several calls, to no avail. What had I missed? I continued trying to reach someone. An hour and a half later I reached my wife. She located a letter that seemed to indicate the meeting might be downtown. I took a cab and arrived at the location. "I am sorry, sir, there are no seventh-floor offices in use yet in this building."
"That cannot be. My letter says different." After I insisted, she let me go up. I arrived on the seventh floor. Nothing but concrete. Perplexed, I called my wife again. We made contact with yet another person who gave us another number to call. Finally, we located where the meeting was taking place. I got into the cab for another $30 cab ride. Forty-five minutes later the cab driver was lost. We stopped at a dry cleaners and he asked the people there, where the street was located. I was past the point of anger. I was laughing at this situation. A few minutes later, we arrived at our destination, three and a half hours after our scheduled time.
Plans do not always go as we hope. Sometimes they are hindered for our purposes. Sometimes we are dealing in a spiritual realm in which we realize we are truly in a spiritual battle. And sometimes we are even hindered to protect us. After looking at this situation, I believe I was being hindered from getting to this meeting. However, perseverance and God's grace allowed me to make the meeting. Important initiatives resulted from the brief time I was there.
The next time your plans are thwarted, begin asking what is at the root of the calamities. Ask God for discernment on what is taking place. Just as He revealed to Daniel, God will show you what is behind such events.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Jesus' parables; execution of John the Baptist; feeding of 5,000; Jesus walks on the water
In Today's Scripture Reading:
Jesus' parables; execution of John the Baptist; feeding of 5,000; Jesus walks on the water
In the first parable of Jesus that Matthew recorded, Jesus described four kinds of responses from those who hear His Word. The true disciple of Christ is represented by the good ground that received seed, which in turn brings forth fruit even to an hundredfold (Matthew 13:8-23). His second parable was of tares (weeds) that grew in the same field with wheat but produced no fruit (13:24-30). The tares look identical to wheat as they grow. In its young stages, only the expert can tell the difference. But, when these weeds reach maturity there is no head, exposing its lack of value. In this parable, the Master said: Let both grow together until the harvest (13:30). Jesus explained that the field is the world; the good seed are the children of the kingdom (13:38).
The tares represent those who outwardly appear to be converts to Christ, but who have never truly received Jesus as Savior and Lord of their lives. They may join the church, give their tithes, and deceive members of the church, but not Christ. It may seem startling to read that the Son of Man shall send forth His angels, and they shall gather out of His kingdom all . . . which do iniquity; And shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth (13:41-42).
No one expects to be hurled into a lake of fire, where there is weeping and wailing and gnashing of teeth forever. Jesus said: Narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few . . . find it (7:14). These few have characteristics that are not true of the majority of people. They recognized that they were sinners and needed a Savior, and they asked the Lord to forgive them of their sins, and to make Him the Lord of their lives. They look forward to attending worship services on Sunday.
To believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and . . . be saved (Acts 16:31), means much more than a mental assent to the fact -- it's a way of living. Continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the Gospel, which ye have heard (Colossians 1:23).
Word Studies:
13:5 forthwith =b> quickly; 13:15 is waxed gross =b> has grown hardened; 13:20 anon =b> immediately; 13:21 dureth for a while =b> continues only a short time; 13:25 tares =b> weeds -- symbolic of satanic activities; 13:33 leaven =b> yeast -- symbolic of sin; meal =b> ground grain; 14:8 charger =b> large platter.
Cross References:
For Matthew 13:14-15: See Isaiah 6:9-10. Matthew 13:32: See Psalm 104:12; Ezekiel 17:23; 31:6; Daniel 4:12. Matthew 13:35: See Psalm 78:2. Matthew 13:41: See Zephaniah 1:3. Matthew 13:43: See Daniel 12:3.
Jesus' parables; execution of John the Baptist; feeding of 5,000; Jesus walks on the water
In the first parable of Jesus that Matthew recorded, Jesus described four kinds of responses from those who hear His Word. The true disciple of Christ is represented by the good ground that received seed, which in turn brings forth fruit even to an hundredfold (Matthew 13:8-23). His second parable was of tares (weeds) that grew in the same field with wheat but produced no fruit (13:24-30). The tares look identical to wheat as they grow. In its young stages, only the expert can tell the difference. But, when these weeds reach maturity there is no head, exposing its lack of value. In this parable, the Master said: Let both grow together until the harvest (13:30). Jesus explained that the field is the world; the good seed are the children of the kingdom (13:38).
The tares represent those who outwardly appear to be converts to Christ, but who have never truly received Jesus as Savior and Lord of their lives. They may join the church, give their tithes, and deceive members of the church, but not Christ. It may seem startling to read that the Son of Man shall send forth His angels, and they shall gather out of His kingdom all . . . which do iniquity; And shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth (13:41-42).
No one expects to be hurled into a lake of fire, where there is weeping and wailing and gnashing of teeth forever. Jesus said: Narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few . . . find it (7:14). These few have characteristics that are not true of the majority of people. They recognized that they were sinners and needed a Savior, and they asked the Lord to forgive them of their sins, and to make Him the Lord of their lives. They look forward to attending worship services on Sunday.
To believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and . . . be saved (Acts 16:31), means much more than a mental assent to the fact -- it's a way of living. Continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the Gospel, which ye have heard (Colossians 1:23).
Word Studies:
13:5 forthwith =b> quickly; 13:15 is waxed gross =b> has grown hardened; 13:20 anon =b> immediately; 13:21 dureth for a while =b> continues only a short time; 13:25 tares =b> weeds -- symbolic of satanic activities; 13:33 leaven =b> yeast -- symbolic of sin; meal =b> ground grain; 14:8 charger =b> large platter.
Cross References:
For Matthew 13:14-15: See Isaiah 6:9-10. Matthew 13:32: See Psalm 104:12; Ezekiel 17:23; 31:6; Daniel 4:12. Matthew 13:35: See Psalm 78:2. Matthew 13:41: See Zephaniah 1:3. Matthew 13:43: See Daniel 12:3.
Our Helper in Prayer
Our Helper in Prayer -- Romans 8:26-27
The Holy Spirit is a practical helper. He is a member of the Trinity, which means He is all-powerful and all-knowing, just as the Father is. And He is one with the Father and the Son Jesus Christ. In other words, the Spirit dwelling within us always knows exactly what God in heaven wills for our life.
Since even the most intelligent people operate with limited knowledge, it is wise to depend upon the Holy Spirit's guidance, especially in prayer. We do not know what the future holds; as a result, our desires may not fit God's plan. Or, it might never occur to us to request something that the Lord knows we will eventually be needing.
There are believers who give up on prayer because, in light of our human limitations, they don't see how it can make sense. But those who stop communicating with God miss out on the awesome work of the Spirit. He directs our prayers, impresses upon our hearts the truth about what we have asked, and ultimately opens our mind to God's will.
Believers never have to worry about making a wrong prayer. In our humanness, we often ask for something that we think will satisfy our fleshly need. But the Holy Spirit won't present a request that goes against the Father's will. Instead, He intercedes to ask for what is right. And at the same time, He whispers to our heart that what we have requested is not suitable.
If God's will is our true desire, we'll be sensitive to the Holy Spirit's guidance. He is our prayer link to the Father, and where He leads, we must follow.
The Holy Spirit is a practical helper. He is a member of the Trinity, which means He is all-powerful and all-knowing, just as the Father is. And He is one with the Father and the Son Jesus Christ. In other words, the Spirit dwelling within us always knows exactly what God in heaven wills for our life.
Since even the most intelligent people operate with limited knowledge, it is wise to depend upon the Holy Spirit's guidance, especially in prayer. We do not know what the future holds; as a result, our desires may not fit God's plan. Or, it might never occur to us to request something that the Lord knows we will eventually be needing.
There are believers who give up on prayer because, in light of our human limitations, they don't see how it can make sense. But those who stop communicating with God miss out on the awesome work of the Spirit. He directs our prayers, impresses upon our hearts the truth about what we have asked, and ultimately opens our mind to God's will.
Believers never have to worry about making a wrong prayer. In our humanness, we often ask for something that we think will satisfy our fleshly need. But the Holy Spirit won't present a request that goes against the Father's will. Instead, He intercedes to ask for what is right. And at the same time, He whispers to our heart that what we have requested is not suitable.
If God's will is our true desire, we'll be sensitive to the Holy Spirit's guidance. He is our prayer link to the Father, and where He leads, we must follow.
Redeeming The Time
Redeeming The Time
by Os Hillman, October 7, 2007
Philip, however, appeared at Azotus and traveled about, preaching the gospel in all the towns until he reached Caesarea. - Acts 8:40
Many times I've heard a man or woman say they cannot participate in an event, a service, or activity for God because of the time it will take away from their job. God has called each of us to be good stewards of our time and our resources. It is just as important to learn how to say yes as it is to say no, and we must be faithful to our employers if we do not have freedom to take time away. However, many times I sense that workplace believers justify a lack of obedience under the guise of stewardship.
Philip was one of the first businessmen who was given a commission to preach the gospel. He was in the city of Samaria preaching when many miracles began to take place and the crowds came to see what was happening. Then in the midst of this great move of God, the angel of God spoke to Philip and told him to leave Samaria and go to a desert road that led from Jerusalem to Gaza. Imagine how Philip must have questioned the logic of this decision when he was seeing such results in Samaria. But Philip was obedient to the angel. Along the road, he met an Ethiopian eunuch who wanted to have the Scriptures explained to him. Philip explained the Scriptures to the Ethiopian, who was the treasurer of Ethiopia under Queen Candace, and led him to the Lord, then baptized him in a nearby lake. A few moments later, Philip was supernaturally transported many miles northwest of his location to Azotus, where he preached Christ along the way toward his final destination of Caesarea.
So often we think that if we give our time outside our work life, our work will suffer. God redeemed the time for Philip by supernaturally transporting him to the next place he was to be. God always blesses those who serve Him. He can redeem lost time for those who willingly give of themselves for His purposes. Do not fall into the trap of believing that God cannot redeem the time you give for Him. If He calls you to give outside your normal work life, be assured He can make up that time. I have heard countless examples of workplace believers who experienced God's supernatural financial provision for time given for the sake of the gospel through unexpected business or unusual income that resulted after they made the commitment to take time away from their work for service to God.
God desires that we respond as Philip did in order to be used by Him in the life of another person. Listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit so that you can go and speak when He says go and speak. Do not fear the consequences of what that might mean if it requires leaving your work interests for a time. God will make it up. He always takes care of those who are obedient. He is more concerned about obedience than the bottom line.
by Os Hillman, October 7, 2007
Philip, however, appeared at Azotus and traveled about, preaching the gospel in all the towns until he reached Caesarea. - Acts 8:40
Many times I've heard a man or woman say they cannot participate in an event, a service, or activity for God because of the time it will take away from their job. God has called each of us to be good stewards of our time and our resources. It is just as important to learn how to say yes as it is to say no, and we must be faithful to our employers if we do not have freedom to take time away. However, many times I sense that workplace believers justify a lack of obedience under the guise of stewardship.
Philip was one of the first businessmen who was given a commission to preach the gospel. He was in the city of Samaria preaching when many miracles began to take place and the crowds came to see what was happening. Then in the midst of this great move of God, the angel of God spoke to Philip and told him to leave Samaria and go to a desert road that led from Jerusalem to Gaza. Imagine how Philip must have questioned the logic of this decision when he was seeing such results in Samaria. But Philip was obedient to the angel. Along the road, he met an Ethiopian eunuch who wanted to have the Scriptures explained to him. Philip explained the Scriptures to the Ethiopian, who was the treasurer of Ethiopia under Queen Candace, and led him to the Lord, then baptized him in a nearby lake. A few moments later, Philip was supernaturally transported many miles northwest of his location to Azotus, where he preached Christ along the way toward his final destination of Caesarea.
So often we think that if we give our time outside our work life, our work will suffer. God redeemed the time for Philip by supernaturally transporting him to the next place he was to be. God always blesses those who serve Him. He can redeem lost time for those who willingly give of themselves for His purposes. Do not fall into the trap of believing that God cannot redeem the time you give for Him. If He calls you to give outside your normal work life, be assured He can make up that time. I have heard countless examples of workplace believers who experienced God's supernatural financial provision for time given for the sake of the gospel through unexpected business or unusual income that resulted after they made the commitment to take time away from their work for service to God.
God desires that we respond as Philip did in order to be used by Him in the life of another person. Listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit so that you can go and speak when He says go and speak. Do not fear the consequences of what that might mean if it requires leaving your work interests for a time. God will make it up. He always takes care of those who are obedient. He is more concerned about obedience than the bottom line.
Psalm 63:1
Psalm 63:1
O God, you are my God, earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you, my body longs for you, in a dry and weary land where there is no water.
Thoughts on today's verse
Addiction has been defined as "God-hunger directed to the wrong source of soul satisfaction." Psalm 63 reminds us this is true. Deep in us is a desire to seek after God because he is not far from us and longs to be known by us (see Acts 17). But often when our soul-craving need for God is greatest, he is the last place we turn for satisfaction.
Prayer:
Holy Father, fill my heart with longing for you and my head with understanding that it is your presence I crave. I confess that I have often sought relief for my hunger in things that do not satisfy. I pledge today to recognize all other sources of satisfaction to be temporary and false. I promise to pursue you and your will through your word and your Spirit until I rest in your presence and grace. In the power of Jesus my Lord, Amen.
O God, you are my God, earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you, my body longs for you, in a dry and weary land where there is no water.
Thoughts on today's verse
Addiction has been defined as "God-hunger directed to the wrong source of soul satisfaction." Psalm 63 reminds us this is true. Deep in us is a desire to seek after God because he is not far from us and longs to be known by us (see Acts 17). But often when our soul-craving need for God is greatest, he is the last place we turn for satisfaction.
Prayer:
Holy Father, fill my heart with longing for you and my head with understanding that it is your presence I crave. I confess that I have often sought relief for my hunger in things that do not satisfy. I pledge today to recognize all other sources of satisfaction to be temporary and false. I promise to pursue you and your will through your word and your Spirit until I rest in your presence and grace. In the power of Jesus my Lord, Amen.
Spinning Plates, Broken People
Spinning Plates, Broken People
by Dennis and Barbara Rainey
Unless the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain who build it.
Psalm 127:1
Do you remember the man who spun the plates on the "Ed Sullivan Show" years ago? I've never forgotten him.
He would start at one end of a long table, place a stick perpendicular to the table, then spin a plate on the stick. Working on down the table, he would place other plates and set them to spinning on their own sticks. As the first plate began to wobble, the man would rush back and expertly spin it again as the audience breathed a sigh of relief.
On he would go...seven, eight, nine plates. By this time, plates two, three and four were now beginning to wobble. But just before you knew everything would come crashing down, he would quickly scoop up all of the plates in his professional hands and bow to the applause of the audience.
Similarly, the roles we assume in life as husband, wife, father, mother, businessman, civic leader, church leader, Sunday School teacher...all represent different plates in our lives. We begin spinning them early in our married lives, with plate number one being our marriages. Through the years we add other plates-career, children, church responsibilities-and our efforts to focus become more difficult.
The real problems come when we begin to make wrong choices. We mistakenly choose to meet more material "needs" by applying our efforts primarily to our work. This isn't about keeping our families from starving, but more about status, significance and the accumulation of "more."
The result is that our focus is lost. We add even more plates. Important plates begin to wobble-even fall and shatter. Like my friend Robert Lewis says, "Kids don't bounce-they break."
How are your essential plates spinning? Any wobbling? Are you giving your energy to the right "ones" according to God's value system?
Suggested Prayer:
Ask God to show you any plates that are getting too much of your energy, being neglected or need a spin.
Discuss:
What are the different plates that you spin?
How do they affect your family time?
How would your family benefit if you dropped some?
by Dennis and Barbara Rainey
Unless the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain who build it.
Psalm 127:1
Do you remember the man who spun the plates on the "Ed Sullivan Show" years ago? I've never forgotten him.
He would start at one end of a long table, place a stick perpendicular to the table, then spin a plate on the stick. Working on down the table, he would place other plates and set them to spinning on their own sticks. As the first plate began to wobble, the man would rush back and expertly spin it again as the audience breathed a sigh of relief.
On he would go...seven, eight, nine plates. By this time, plates two, three and four were now beginning to wobble. But just before you knew everything would come crashing down, he would quickly scoop up all of the plates in his professional hands and bow to the applause of the audience.
Similarly, the roles we assume in life as husband, wife, father, mother, businessman, civic leader, church leader, Sunday School teacher...all represent different plates in our lives. We begin spinning them early in our married lives, with plate number one being our marriages. Through the years we add other plates-career, children, church responsibilities-and our efforts to focus become more difficult.
The real problems come when we begin to make wrong choices. We mistakenly choose to meet more material "needs" by applying our efforts primarily to our work. This isn't about keeping our families from starving, but more about status, significance and the accumulation of "more."
The result is that our focus is lost. We add even more plates. Important plates begin to wobble-even fall and shatter. Like my friend Robert Lewis says, "Kids don't bounce-they break."
How are your essential plates spinning? Any wobbling? Are you giving your energy to the right "ones" according to God's value system?
Suggested Prayer:
Ask God to show you any plates that are getting too much of your energy, being neglected or need a spin.
Discuss:
What are the different plates that you spin?
How do they affect your family time?
How would your family benefit if you dropped some?
A Path to Contentment
A Path to Contentment
By Marybeth Whalen
"And don't be wishing you were someplace else or with someone else. Where you are is God's place for you. Live and obey and love and believe right there. God, not your marital status, defines your life." I Corinthians 7:17 (MSG)
Devotion:
I have heard it said that comparison is the death of contentment, and truer words were never spoken. As I read this verse, I was struck by what Paul was saying. His words took me back to a place in my life when I was discontent with my marriage, my home, my children, and my life. I looked around me for answers and compared my situation to others. The trouble was I had limited information as to what was really going on in other people's lives. I could only see what they wanted me to see, what they chose to reveal.
This habit of comparison led me to dissatisfaction with my husband. If only he were more godly. If only he were more attentive. If only he made more money. If only he understood me better. If only he were like so and so's husband, then... This vicious cycle continued for many years, diminishing my husband in my eyes, and defeating our marriage from the outside in. Unless something changed, we were doomed to join the statistics.
It was the Truth in this verse that led me to stop the madness. Instead of focusing on other people, I focused on my husband. Instead of wishing away what God had given me, I started counting my blessings. Instead of wanting what I didn't have, I worked at wanting what I had already been given. This external shift in perspective resulted in an internal heart change. Over time, I learned to live out the Truth in this verse.
If you break the verse down, you find three parts.
One: Don't be wishing you were someplace else or with someone else. This statement is true for both spouses, and reflects an attitude that is rampant in the culture. Be careful of the times you say to yourself, "If only..." Those statements lead down a dangerous road.
Two: Where you are is God's place for you. For reasons you may not understand, God has allowed you to be in the place you are in. Instead of spending time wishing it away, spend time seeking God to determine His purposes for you. Use this as an opportunity for spiritual growth. This is true for singles as well as married couples.
Three: God defines your life. Don't let your spouse, position, address, income, or anything else define you. If you have been guilty of letting these things define you, ask for His forgiveness and take steps to break free from these attitudes today. Spend some time letting the God of the Universe tell you who you are and what He sees in you. Don't look to your spouse, your friends, your coworkers, neighbors or family members for these answers.
These three steps will lead you down a new path. This path leads to hope and contentment, freedom and abundance.
Dear Lord, Please tell me who I am in You. Help me to seek your answers and not look to other people's situations as a solution. Help me find the path You have carved out for me so I can live the life of freedom and abundance You have uniquely planned for me. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Related Resources:
Marybeth Whalen's blog
Capture His Heart by Lysa TerKeurst
For more on marriage issues visit Growthtrac
Do You Know Him?
Application Steps:
Is there someone you tend to compare yourself to? Perhaps it is a neighbor or family member. Write down any names God has brought to mind and any action steps you can take to stop looking to them.
Reflections:
What feelings does this verse stir up in you?
Which of the three parts most applies to your situation today?
Power Verses:
Psalm 16:11, "You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand." (NIV)
Ecclesiastes 4:8, "There was a man all alone; he had neither son nor brother. There was no end to his toil, yet his eyes were not content with his wealth. 'For whom am I toiling,' he asked, 'and why am I depriving myself of enjoyment?' This too is meaningless--a miserable business!" (NIV)
Philippians 4:12-13, "I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all things through him who gives me strength." (NIV)
Proverbs 31 Ministries
616-G, Matthews-Mint Hill Road
Matthews, NC 28105
www.Proverbs31.org
If you enjoyed this newsletter, forward it on to a friend.
If this message was forwarded to you from a friend, signup for your own subscription here.
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By Marybeth Whalen
"And don't be wishing you were someplace else or with someone else. Where you are is God's place for you. Live and obey and love and believe right there. God, not your marital status, defines your life." I Corinthians 7:17 (MSG)
Devotion:
I have heard it said that comparison is the death of contentment, and truer words were never spoken. As I read this verse, I was struck by what Paul was saying. His words took me back to a place in my life when I was discontent with my marriage, my home, my children, and my life. I looked around me for answers and compared my situation to others. The trouble was I had limited information as to what was really going on in other people's lives. I could only see what they wanted me to see, what they chose to reveal.
This habit of comparison led me to dissatisfaction with my husband. If only he were more godly. If only he were more attentive. If only he made more money. If only he understood me better. If only he were like so and so's husband, then... This vicious cycle continued for many years, diminishing my husband in my eyes, and defeating our marriage from the outside in. Unless something changed, we were doomed to join the statistics.
It was the Truth in this verse that led me to stop the madness. Instead of focusing on other people, I focused on my husband. Instead of wishing away what God had given me, I started counting my blessings. Instead of wanting what I didn't have, I worked at wanting what I had already been given. This external shift in perspective resulted in an internal heart change. Over time, I learned to live out the Truth in this verse.
If you break the verse down, you find three parts.
One: Don't be wishing you were someplace else or with someone else. This statement is true for both spouses, and reflects an attitude that is rampant in the culture. Be careful of the times you say to yourself, "If only..." Those statements lead down a dangerous road.
Two: Where you are is God's place for you. For reasons you may not understand, God has allowed you to be in the place you are in. Instead of spending time wishing it away, spend time seeking God to determine His purposes for you. Use this as an opportunity for spiritual growth. This is true for singles as well as married couples.
Three: God defines your life. Don't let your spouse, position, address, income, or anything else define you. If you have been guilty of letting these things define you, ask for His forgiveness and take steps to break free from these attitudes today. Spend some time letting the God of the Universe tell you who you are and what He sees in you. Don't look to your spouse, your friends, your coworkers, neighbors or family members for these answers.
These three steps will lead you down a new path. This path leads to hope and contentment, freedom and abundance.
Dear Lord, Please tell me who I am in You. Help me to seek your answers and not look to other people's situations as a solution. Help me find the path You have carved out for me so I can live the life of freedom and abundance You have uniquely planned for me. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Related Resources:
Marybeth Whalen's blog
Capture His Heart by Lysa TerKeurst
For more on marriage issues visit Growthtrac
Do You Know Him?
Application Steps:
Is there someone you tend to compare yourself to? Perhaps it is a neighbor or family member. Write down any names God has brought to mind and any action steps you can take to stop looking to them.
Reflections:
What feelings does this verse stir up in you?
Which of the three parts most applies to your situation today?
Power Verses:
Psalm 16:11, "You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand." (NIV)
Ecclesiastes 4:8, "There was a man all alone; he had neither son nor brother. There was no end to his toil, yet his eyes were not content with his wealth. 'For whom am I toiling,' he asked, 'and why am I depriving myself of enjoyment?' This too is meaningless--a miserable business!" (NIV)
Philippians 4:12-13, "I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all things through him who gives me strength." (NIV)
Proverbs 31 Ministries
616-G, Matthews-Mint Hill Road
Matthews, NC 28105
www.Proverbs31.org
If you enjoyed this newsletter, forward it on to a friend.
If this message was forwarded to you from a friend, signup for your own subscription here.
FREE ECARDS
Send this Card
Send this Card
Send this Card
Find The Love of Your Life Today
Send Bibles to Restricted Nations
Subscribe to CCM Magazine
Advertise with us
Crosswalk.com is a member of the Salem Web Network of sites including:
Oneplace.com
Lightsource.com
ChristianJobs.com
CrossCards.com
BibleArcade.com
Christianity.com
Blessings in Sleep
Blessings in Sleep
Today's Scripture
“He gives blessing to His beloved in sleep” (Psalm 127:2 AMP).
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
The Lord longs to pour out blessings on you constantly—even when you sleep! Many people today struggle with sleeping at night. They stay awake or get poor sleep because they are constantly focused on their problems and worrying about tomorrow. But that’s not God’s plan for you! He wants you to enjoy your sleep as a time of blessing and refreshing. Understand that God has His hand on your life even in the midnight hour. He wants to speak to your heart and restore your dreams. He is taking care of those things that concern you. When you cast your cares on Him and trust Him to work out every detail of your life, you’ll be able to enjoy that sweet sleep that He has promised. Make the decision today to enjoy the blessing of the Lord as you sleep tonight. Say a prayer before you go to bed and cast your cares on Him. As you allow the Lord to bless and refresh you in sleep, you’ll see a tremendous change in your waking hours. You’ll be more invigorated, more alert, and full of the blessing of the Lord in every area of your life!
A Prayer for Today
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your promise of blessing. I ask that You teach me to receive that blessing even while I sleep. I cast my cares on You and trust that You are working behind the scenes in my life. Thank You for watching over me and protecting me. Thank You for refreshing me as I sleep tonight. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Today's Scripture
“He gives blessing to His beloved in sleep” (Psalm 127:2 AMP).
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
The Lord longs to pour out blessings on you constantly—even when you sleep! Many people today struggle with sleeping at night. They stay awake or get poor sleep because they are constantly focused on their problems and worrying about tomorrow. But that’s not God’s plan for you! He wants you to enjoy your sleep as a time of blessing and refreshing. Understand that God has His hand on your life even in the midnight hour. He wants to speak to your heart and restore your dreams. He is taking care of those things that concern you. When you cast your cares on Him and trust Him to work out every detail of your life, you’ll be able to enjoy that sweet sleep that He has promised. Make the decision today to enjoy the blessing of the Lord as you sleep tonight. Say a prayer before you go to bed and cast your cares on Him. As you allow the Lord to bless and refresh you in sleep, you’ll see a tremendous change in your waking hours. You’ll be more invigorated, more alert, and full of the blessing of the Lord in every area of your life!
A Prayer for Today
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your promise of blessing. I ask that You teach me to receive that blessing even while I sleep. I cast my cares on You and trust that You are working behind the scenes in my life. Thank You for watching over me and protecting me. Thank You for refreshing me as I sleep tonight. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Bucket of Blessings
Bucket of Blessings
By Zoë Elmore
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
Matthew 6:33
It was Friday afternoon and Tom arrived home early from work carrying a beautiful arrangement of cut flowers. I took the flowers from him, placed them on the counter then threw my arms around his neck squealing with delight and kissed his face.
Tom lowered my arms and he lowered his head as he began to tell me that his job had just been eliminated, and in a few short weeks, he would be unemployed. I couldn’t breathe or even speak.
We spent much of the night crying and discussing the details of what we would need to do while we waited for the Lord to open the next job opportunity. Over that next week I enjoyed carrying my beautiful flower arrangement from room to room not wanting to miss one moment of their beauty. Sadly, the blooms on my beautiful arrangement began to fade and I removed the wilted and brown flowers from their container and placed them in the garbage. I thought about holding on to a few of them as a memory of my husband’s tenderness toward me, but the Lord whispered, “Throw the blooms away but save the little blue container. I am going to fill it to overflowing.” Reluctantly I threw out the flowers, placed the little blue container in my kitchen and named it our “bucket of blessing”.
Throughout the long ten months of waiting for Tom to begin working again we received many cards, e-mails and phone calls encouraging us to persevere. Month after month we placed these encouragements in our bucket of blessing and before long it was filled to overflowing. It contained words of encouragement from friends and family, and stories of my husband’s integrity in his former job. Additionally, we placed in there reminders of kind gestures, unexpected gifts of kindness and nuggets of gold from God’s holy word. When either of us was tempted to feel discouraged we would remove one of those blessings from the bucket and read it. Each one was not only a reminder of God’s faithful provision to us but also God’s very presence with us.
Although Tom and I did not know what our future held, our confidence that God’s hand sustains and provides through times of uncertainty was greatly magnified. Although the flowers in that container were beautiful, their beauty only lasted a few days; however the blessings now held in our bucket will last a lifetime. Our circumstances may have changed, however God’s faithfulness does not ever change. The Bible is filled to overflowing with rich words of encouragement to trust the One who created us and who is faithful to sustain us.
Jehovah Jirah - He is faithful to provide!
Suggested Prayer:
Dear Lord, You are faithful beyond measure and I thank you for sustaining my family through difficult and trying times. Thank you for the Bible that reminds me of your faithfulness; and thank you for holding my future securely in your hand of provision. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Application Steps:
Create your own “bucket of blessing” and begin filling it with encouragement from God’s Holy word.
When you’re tired and discouraged, reach in the bucket, and pull out a blessing.
Read it and know that the one who holds your future in his hands is with you and providing for you.
Reflections:
Have you drawn from the bucket of blessing today?
Are you relying on the beauty of the flowers to lead you through life today or are you relying on the One who created the flowers?
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By Zoë Elmore
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
Matthew 6:33
It was Friday afternoon and Tom arrived home early from work carrying a beautiful arrangement of cut flowers. I took the flowers from him, placed them on the counter then threw my arms around his neck squealing with delight and kissed his face.
Tom lowered my arms and he lowered his head as he began to tell me that his job had just been eliminated, and in a few short weeks, he would be unemployed. I couldn’t breathe or even speak.
We spent much of the night crying and discussing the details of what we would need to do while we waited for the Lord to open the next job opportunity. Over that next week I enjoyed carrying my beautiful flower arrangement from room to room not wanting to miss one moment of their beauty. Sadly, the blooms on my beautiful arrangement began to fade and I removed the wilted and brown flowers from their container and placed them in the garbage. I thought about holding on to a few of them as a memory of my husband’s tenderness toward me, but the Lord whispered, “Throw the blooms away but save the little blue container. I am going to fill it to overflowing.” Reluctantly I threw out the flowers, placed the little blue container in my kitchen and named it our “bucket of blessing”.
Throughout the long ten months of waiting for Tom to begin working again we received many cards, e-mails and phone calls encouraging us to persevere. Month after month we placed these encouragements in our bucket of blessing and before long it was filled to overflowing. It contained words of encouragement from friends and family, and stories of my husband’s integrity in his former job. Additionally, we placed in there reminders of kind gestures, unexpected gifts of kindness and nuggets of gold from God’s holy word. When either of us was tempted to feel discouraged we would remove one of those blessings from the bucket and read it. Each one was not only a reminder of God’s faithful provision to us but also God’s very presence with us.
Although Tom and I did not know what our future held, our confidence that God’s hand sustains and provides through times of uncertainty was greatly magnified. Although the flowers in that container were beautiful, their beauty only lasted a few days; however the blessings now held in our bucket will last a lifetime. Our circumstances may have changed, however God’s faithfulness does not ever change. The Bible is filled to overflowing with rich words of encouragement to trust the One who created us and who is faithful to sustain us.
Jehovah Jirah - He is faithful to provide!
Suggested Prayer:
Dear Lord, You are faithful beyond measure and I thank you for sustaining my family through difficult and trying times. Thank you for the Bible that reminds me of your faithfulness; and thank you for holding my future securely in your hand of provision. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Application Steps:
Create your own “bucket of blessing” and begin filling it with encouragement from God’s Holy word.
When you’re tired and discouraged, reach in the bucket, and pull out a blessing.
Read it and know that the one who holds your future in his hands is with you and providing for you.
Reflections:
Have you drawn from the bucket of blessing today?
Are you relying on the beauty of the flowers to lead you through life today or are you relying on the One who created the flowers?
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bear fruit in keeping with repentance
Bear fruit in keeping with repentance.
--Matthew 3:8
I'm sure that you've heard the old saying, "Actions speak louder than words."
I believe this is exactly what God is saying to us sometimes. God wants us to worship Him with our mouths and voices, but He also wants us to act upon those words.
This is especially true of repentance. The Bible tells us to confess our sins with our mouths...but it also says that God wants to see the change in our lives. The challenge is to move from repentance to commitment!
How can you tell if someone is genuine in what they say? Check and see if their actions match their words. As Matthew 3:8 says, we must bear fruit that is consistent with our repentance. That simply means living in a way that matches our verbal commitments to God.
The only reliable, outward sign of true repentance is a changed life. Tears, emotions, and words are many times outward signals of inward change, but those can be deceiving. Genuine repentance is displayed when our actions match our words.
You probably already know to confess your sins to God to experience His forgiveness. But think about this today. In what ways has that repentance resulted in a change in your life?
It's wonderful to be able to confess our sins to God and experience His forgiveness. Let's just make sure that what we do after we say "Amen" matches up with the words we just spoke to the Lord.
THE SIGN OF AUTHENTIC REPENTANCE IS A CHANGED LIFE.
--Matthew 3:8
I'm sure that you've heard the old saying, "Actions speak louder than words."
I believe this is exactly what God is saying to us sometimes. God wants us to worship Him with our mouths and voices, but He also wants us to act upon those words.
This is especially true of repentance. The Bible tells us to confess our sins with our mouths...but it also says that God wants to see the change in our lives. The challenge is to move from repentance to commitment!
How can you tell if someone is genuine in what they say? Check and see if their actions match their words. As Matthew 3:8 says, we must bear fruit that is consistent with our repentance. That simply means living in a way that matches our verbal commitments to God.
The only reliable, outward sign of true repentance is a changed life. Tears, emotions, and words are many times outward signals of inward change, but those can be deceiving. Genuine repentance is displayed when our actions match our words.
You probably already know to confess your sins to God to experience His forgiveness. But think about this today. In what ways has that repentance resulted in a change in your life?
It's wonderful to be able to confess our sins to God and experience His forgiveness. Let's just make sure that what we do after we say "Amen" matches up with the words we just spoke to the Lord.
THE SIGN OF AUTHENTIC REPENTANCE IS A CHANGED LIFE.
Is Peace Possible in Bad Times? -- John 15:1-5
Is Peace Possible in Bad Times? -- John 15:1-5
Everyone experiences times of emotional chaos that make it seem impossible to sense peace. But the Lord can provide inner contentment in even the darkest and most turbulent periods of our life.
How can we have peace in any circumstance? The key is abiding in Jesus Christ, which means putting our faith in Him and trusting He will strengthen us through any hardship. As Christians, we are inseparably connected to the Lord, just as branches are attached to the vine. Life-giving nutrients run through the plant to every shoot. And so it is with Christ and His followers. His peace flows into us. No matter what is done to us or how life disappoints, His nourishment will not be cut off.
In the days leading up to His crucifixion, Jesus assured His followers that He would continue to care and provide: "These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world" (John 16:33, emphasis added). In other words, nothing can stop His peace from reaching us. If our contentment dries up, it is because we doubt God will keep His promise to watch over us.
Every person will, at some point, face hardship, but no believer has to give in to anxiety. We have an awesome God caring for us. If we trust Him to see us through our challenges, He will pour His strength, guidance, and comfort into our lives. And in Him, we will find peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:7).
Everyone experiences times of emotional chaos that make it seem impossible to sense peace. But the Lord can provide inner contentment in even the darkest and most turbulent periods of our life.
How can we have peace in any circumstance? The key is abiding in Jesus Christ, which means putting our faith in Him and trusting He will strengthen us through any hardship. As Christians, we are inseparably connected to the Lord, just as branches are attached to the vine. Life-giving nutrients run through the plant to every shoot. And so it is with Christ and His followers. His peace flows into us. No matter what is done to us or how life disappoints, His nourishment will not be cut off.
In the days leading up to His crucifixion, Jesus assured His followers that He would continue to care and provide: "These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world" (John 16:33, emphasis added). In other words, nothing can stop His peace from reaching us. If our contentment dries up, it is because we doubt God will keep His promise to watch over us.
Every person will, at some point, face hardship, but no believer has to give in to anxiety. We have an awesome God caring for us. If we trust Him to see us through our challenges, He will pour His strength, guidance, and comfort into our lives. And in Him, we will find peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:7).
Making the effort
Making the Effort
By Rachel Olsen
“Be earnest and unwearied in prayer, being on the alert in it and in your giving of thanks.” Colossians 4:2 (WNT)
Devotion:
I was recently interviewed by a Christian radio station; following the release of our devotional book God’s Purpose for Every Woman. The interview began with a brief discussion of the nature of God’s promises and purposes for women. Next, the topic shifted to the daily discipline of spending time with God, communing with Him through the words of the Bible and prayer. Of course I said how important this was for Christian stability and growth. Then the interviewer challenged, “So bring this home. You are a wife, a mother, a university teacher, a writer, and a traveling national speaker. I’m guessing you are pretty busy. Rachel, how do you find time to have a quiet time?”
There was a day when this question would have struck me deaf and dumb because I didn’t know what the answer was. I knew people who would spend an hour alone with God each day, and I wondered what their secret was. What was it that enabled them to do that? What kept them from falling asleep sitting there alone with the Bible? How did they know what to say, read or think about during all those minutes? How did they keep from getting distracted? How did they even manage to find an hour of free time each day? I kept waiting for a season of my life to come during which a block of time would regularly present itself and my spirit would drive me to God like my sweet tooth drives me to the freezer for chocolate ice cream. I wasted a lot of time idly waiting for that to happen.
“Rachel, how do you find time to have a quiet time?” I don’t find the time,” I answered. “I have to make the time. I can’t expect to find time – that’ll never happen. There’s always going to be something needing my attention, calling my name. I have to make the time, and that means sometimes I have to let other things slide. I have to be OK with letting less important things slide,” I confessed.
I’ve come to realize it’s a matter of choice, a matter of discipline… and a matter of active investment. E.M. Bounds wrote, “The lazy man does not, will not, cannot pray, for prayer demands energy.” That is a simple but profound statement. When I don’t pray it’s because I simply don’t want to expend the energy on it. People who do not pray much probably claim to be too busy or too bored with it, but in reality are too lazy to press into God. Wow. Ouch!
We have to be earnest and unwearied in prayer as today’s verse urges. In the words of a little shoe company called Nike; we have to “just do it.” Let’s carve some time in our days to be quiet before the Lord, to read His words and pray. We can trade a small portion of our time and energy for a large portion of His grace and power.
Purpose to stick to it for several weeks until it sinks into your schedule and your soul. If you want some help being accountable on this, visit my blog listed below. I know we’ll find it is more than worth the effort.
Dear Lord, I want to make the effort and time to interact with You. I want to pray and seek your heart. I don’t want to be too lazy to connect to Your love, wisdom, power and grace. Help me in this, in Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Related Resources:
A Busy Woman’s Guide to Prayer by Cheri Fuller
Rachel Olsen’s blog
6 Habits of Highly Successful Christians by Brian T. Anderson & Glynnis Whitwer
Application Steps:
If you are not in the habit of praying or regularly communing with God, commit to doing so. It doesn’t have to be for an hour - start with 10 minutes. Gather your Bible, some pen and paper and set the timer. For more tips see my blog.
Reflections:
Have you believed you were too busy to have a “quiet time” or pray?
Would you agree that you are too lazy to pray?
Has there been a time in your life when you were committed to regularly spending time alone with God? If so, what was the outcome of that spiritual practice?
Power Verses:
Matthew 6:6, “But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” (NIV)
Mark 6:31, “Jesus said, ‘Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” (NIV)
Mark 6:46, “After leaving them, he went up on a mountainside to pray.” (NIV)
1 Corinthians 14:15, “So what shall I do? I will pray with my spirit, but I will also pray with my mind; I will sing with my spirit, but I will also sing with my mind.” (NIV)
Proverbs 31 Ministries
616-G, Matthews-Mint Hill Road
Matthews, NC 28105
www.Proverbs31.org
By Rachel Olsen
“Be earnest and unwearied in prayer, being on the alert in it and in your giving of thanks.” Colossians 4:2 (WNT)
Devotion:
I was recently interviewed by a Christian radio station; following the release of our devotional book God’s Purpose for Every Woman. The interview began with a brief discussion of the nature of God’s promises and purposes for women. Next, the topic shifted to the daily discipline of spending time with God, communing with Him through the words of the Bible and prayer. Of course I said how important this was for Christian stability and growth. Then the interviewer challenged, “So bring this home. You are a wife, a mother, a university teacher, a writer, and a traveling national speaker. I’m guessing you are pretty busy. Rachel, how do you find time to have a quiet time?”
There was a day when this question would have struck me deaf and dumb because I didn’t know what the answer was. I knew people who would spend an hour alone with God each day, and I wondered what their secret was. What was it that enabled them to do that? What kept them from falling asleep sitting there alone with the Bible? How did they know what to say, read or think about during all those minutes? How did they keep from getting distracted? How did they even manage to find an hour of free time each day? I kept waiting for a season of my life to come during which a block of time would regularly present itself and my spirit would drive me to God like my sweet tooth drives me to the freezer for chocolate ice cream. I wasted a lot of time idly waiting for that to happen.
“Rachel, how do you find time to have a quiet time?” I don’t find the time,” I answered. “I have to make the time. I can’t expect to find time – that’ll never happen. There’s always going to be something needing my attention, calling my name. I have to make the time, and that means sometimes I have to let other things slide. I have to be OK with letting less important things slide,” I confessed.
I’ve come to realize it’s a matter of choice, a matter of discipline… and a matter of active investment. E.M. Bounds wrote, “The lazy man does not, will not, cannot pray, for prayer demands energy.” That is a simple but profound statement. When I don’t pray it’s because I simply don’t want to expend the energy on it. People who do not pray much probably claim to be too busy or too bored with it, but in reality are too lazy to press into God. Wow. Ouch!
We have to be earnest and unwearied in prayer as today’s verse urges. In the words of a little shoe company called Nike; we have to “just do it.” Let’s carve some time in our days to be quiet before the Lord, to read His words and pray. We can trade a small portion of our time and energy for a large portion of His grace and power.
Purpose to stick to it for several weeks until it sinks into your schedule and your soul. If you want some help being accountable on this, visit my blog listed below. I know we’ll find it is more than worth the effort.
Dear Lord, I want to make the effort and time to interact with You. I want to pray and seek your heart. I don’t want to be too lazy to connect to Your love, wisdom, power and grace. Help me in this, in Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Related Resources:
A Busy Woman’s Guide to Prayer by Cheri Fuller
Rachel Olsen’s blog
6 Habits of Highly Successful Christians by Brian T. Anderson & Glynnis Whitwer
Application Steps:
If you are not in the habit of praying or regularly communing with God, commit to doing so. It doesn’t have to be for an hour - start with 10 minutes. Gather your Bible, some pen and paper and set the timer. For more tips see my blog.
Reflections:
Have you believed you were too busy to have a “quiet time” or pray?
Would you agree that you are too lazy to pray?
Has there been a time in your life when you were committed to regularly spending time alone with God? If so, what was the outcome of that spiritual practice?
Power Verses:
Matthew 6:6, “But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” (NIV)
Mark 6:31, “Jesus said, ‘Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” (NIV)
Mark 6:46, “After leaving them, he went up on a mountainside to pray.” (NIV)
1 Corinthians 14:15, “So what shall I do? I will pray with my spirit, but I will also pray with my mind; I will sing with my spirit, but I will also sing with my mind.” (NIV)
Proverbs 31 Ministries
616-G, Matthews-Mint Hill Road
Matthews, NC 28105
www.Proverbs31.org
Covenant Relationships
Covenant Relationships
by Os Hillman, October 10, 2007
But I will establish My covenant with you, and you will enter the ark - you and your sons and your wife and your sons' wives with you. - Genesis 6:18
The Bible is filled with covenants made between God and people. Six of those covenants were made with Old Testament figures: Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, and David. The seventh was made with His own Son, Jesus Christ. God is always the strongest partner in a covenant relationship.
God made a covenant with Noah in order to preserve the human race. This covenant involved Noah's participation by building an ark. He'd never built an ark before. He'd never had a boat. It was a totally new concept to Noah and the rest of the world. Why would he need a boat in a dry land?
Noah did not have to invent the ark; God gave him the plans-in specific dimensional detail. He did not have to gather the animals -- God led them into the ark. God even closed the door when they all came on board. God made it rain to prove why the ark was needed.
The covenant provided all Noah needed to complete his mission in life. When God spoke to Noah to do this thing, he needed only to respond to God's call to do it. Noah could rest in knowing the covenant made with God was going to be fulfilled if he fulfilled his part.
If you have entered into a covenant relationship with God, you too can be assured that God will uphold His part of the covenant relationship. He is committed to fulfilling His covenant with you and to fulfill His purposes in and through your life. It only requires one thing on your part -- obedience. He will even provide grace and faith to you to help you fulfill your part of the covenant.
Each of us has a covenant with God. But we also enter covenants with others in our personal and business lives. How are you doing in fulfilling covenants to others? God has given us the example to follow. Ask God if you have any unfulfilled covenants you need to honor. He has called you and me to be covenant keepers.
The one who calls you is faithful and He will do it (1 Thessalonians 5:24).
by Os Hillman, October 10, 2007
But I will establish My covenant with you, and you will enter the ark - you and your sons and your wife and your sons' wives with you. - Genesis 6:18
The Bible is filled with covenants made between God and people. Six of those covenants were made with Old Testament figures: Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, and David. The seventh was made with His own Son, Jesus Christ. God is always the strongest partner in a covenant relationship.
God made a covenant with Noah in order to preserve the human race. This covenant involved Noah's participation by building an ark. He'd never built an ark before. He'd never had a boat. It was a totally new concept to Noah and the rest of the world. Why would he need a boat in a dry land?
Noah did not have to invent the ark; God gave him the plans-in specific dimensional detail. He did not have to gather the animals -- God led them into the ark. God even closed the door when they all came on board. God made it rain to prove why the ark was needed.
The covenant provided all Noah needed to complete his mission in life. When God spoke to Noah to do this thing, he needed only to respond to God's call to do it. Noah could rest in knowing the covenant made with God was going to be fulfilled if he fulfilled his part.
If you have entered into a covenant relationship with God, you too can be assured that God will uphold His part of the covenant relationship. He is committed to fulfilling His covenant with you and to fulfill His purposes in and through your life. It only requires one thing on your part -- obedience. He will even provide grace and faith to you to help you fulfill your part of the covenant.
Each of us has a covenant with God. But we also enter covenants with others in our personal and business lives. How are you doing in fulfilling covenants to others? God has given us the example to follow. Ask God if you have any unfulfilled covenants you need to honor. He has called you and me to be covenant keepers.
The one who calls you is faithful and He will do it (1 Thessalonians 5:24).
Today's Scripture Reading
In Today's Scripture Reading:
Parables; plot to kill Jesus; Jesus anointed; Lord's Supper; Christ's agony and prayer; Judas' betrayal; Jesus' trial; Peter's denial
Jesus represented Himself in a parable saying: The Kingdom of Heaven is as a man travelling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods. And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several (own) ability; and straightway took his journey (Matthew 25:14-15). These talents did not belong to the servants, but remained the property of their master. They were to be his managers (stewards) of the goods entrusted to them. The goods of this parable represent the opportunities and abilities that God has given to us and that He expects us to use for His Kingdom.
The servant who received five talents recognized that what he had received belonged to his master. On the day of judgment he said: Lord, thou deliveredst unto me five talents: behold, I have gained beside them five talents more (25:20).
And likewise he that had received two, he also gained other two (25:17). He was not expected to gain five since he had been given according to his own ability. Both faithfully doubled their talents and both were equally commended.
The third servant had received one talent. He put forth no effort for his master. Instead, he went and digged in the earth, and hid his lord's (master's) money (25:15,18). His effort for "earthly security" was inexcusable. He tried to excuse himself like the person today who shows great diligence working in the secular world, but says: "I'm too busy now. I'll serve the Lord at some more convenient time, or after I retire."
The consequences of neglecting the opportunities to serve his master were irreversible; there was no second chance to relive his life. The master declared: Cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth (Matthew 25:30; compare 8:12; 22:13; 24:51).
We can choose to ignore our opportunities to serve Him, withhold our tithes, and desecrate the Lord's Day; but, without an exception, every one of us shall give account of himself to God (Romans 14:12). Ye are not your own. . . . ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's (I Corinthians 6:19-20).
Word Studies:
25:27 exchangers =b> moneylenders; 25:27 usury =b> interest on money lent; 26:15 covenanted =b> agreed on; 26:47 staves =b> clubs; 26:63 I adjure thee =b> I charge you under oath before God.
Cross References:
For Matthew 26:31: See Zechariah 13:7. Matthew 26:64: See Psalm 110:1; Daniel 7:13.
Parables; plot to kill Jesus; Jesus anointed; Lord's Supper; Christ's agony and prayer; Judas' betrayal; Jesus' trial; Peter's denial
Jesus represented Himself in a parable saying: The Kingdom of Heaven is as a man travelling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods. And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several (own) ability; and straightway took his journey (Matthew 25:14-15). These talents did not belong to the servants, but remained the property of their master. They were to be his managers (stewards) of the goods entrusted to them. The goods of this parable represent the opportunities and abilities that God has given to us and that He expects us to use for His Kingdom.
The servant who received five talents recognized that what he had received belonged to his master. On the day of judgment he said: Lord, thou deliveredst unto me five talents: behold, I have gained beside them five talents more (25:20).
And likewise he that had received two, he also gained other two (25:17). He was not expected to gain five since he had been given according to his own ability. Both faithfully doubled their talents and both were equally commended.
The third servant had received one talent. He put forth no effort for his master. Instead, he went and digged in the earth, and hid his lord's (master's) money (25:15,18). His effort for "earthly security" was inexcusable. He tried to excuse himself like the person today who shows great diligence working in the secular world, but says: "I'm too busy now. I'll serve the Lord at some more convenient time, or after I retire."
The consequences of neglecting the opportunities to serve his master were irreversible; there was no second chance to relive his life. The master declared: Cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth (Matthew 25:30; compare 8:12; 22:13; 24:51).
We can choose to ignore our opportunities to serve Him, withhold our tithes, and desecrate the Lord's Day; but, without an exception, every one of us shall give account of himself to God (Romans 14:12). Ye are not your own. . . . ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's (I Corinthians 6:19-20).
Word Studies:
25:27 exchangers =b> moneylenders; 25:27 usury =b> interest on money lent; 26:15 covenanted =b> agreed on; 26:47 staves =b> clubs; 26:63 I adjure thee =b> I charge you under oath before God.
Cross References:
For Matthew 26:31: See Zechariah 13:7. Matthew 26:64: See Psalm 110:1; Daniel 7:13.
When Self-Rescue is Not an Option
When Self-Rescue is Not an Option
By Glynnis Whitwer
"The Lord says, "I will rescue those who love me.
I will protect those who trust in my name." Psalm 91:14 (NLT)
Devotion:
All climbers preparing to brave the extremes of Mount McKinley/Denali in Alaska must first check in at the Talkeetna Ranger Station. Here, mountaineering rangers give last-minute preparation and safety talks before hikers are flown to Base Camp at 7,200 feet.
Although we would only view the stunning mountain from afar, this summer my family got to hear a portion of what the climbers hear before beginning their ascent. The kids loved the part about packing out your own "waste." But the most striking part to me was the necessity of being prepared to "self-rescue."
In other words, if you fall into a crevasse, have a plan to get your self out! Because rescues can cost up to $30,000 and put the rescuers at great personal risk, it was easy to understand this advice. I nodded my head in agreement. I've always felt people should be prepared to rescue themselves from trouble.
Less than a month after that Alaskan trip, I went to Ecuador with Proverbs 31 and Compassion International. More than traveling from the northern to the southern hemisphere, God took me on a trip to transform my thinking.
As I stood at the top of a garbage-strewn street in Quito (a far cry from Denali National Park ), I looked over structures built with broken bricks and tin and on past to a city of 13 million mostly poor inhabitants, God smashed my "self-rescue" mentality.
Here before me were people who had no way to rescue themselves. Their poverty, and all that goes with it, had eliminated their ability to change their circumstances. Their only hope was brought to them by other people. Into this desperate situation walked humble servants of Jesus ... wiping runny noses, feeding hungry children, training moms to care for babies, tutoring students and teaching about the saving love of Jesus.
God used that trip to Ecuador to show me His heart for the poor, and something more. God showed me that I'm not so different from the beautiful Ecuadorians I met. As much as I like to be independent and rescue myself, I can't. Not only that, but God never meant for me to.
God created me with a deep need for Him. Every step towards greater self-sufficiency takes me further from God's help. I fight this dependency on God at times, falsely believing I must "self rescue." And yet when I do ask for God's help with any worries or concerns, I wonder why I stubbornly waited so long.
There are many things I can't do on my own. To name just a few, I can't love those who have hurt me or forgive great offenses without God's help. And I will never be "good enough" to enter God's presence in heaven without the ultimate price that was paid by Jesus' death on the cross.
There's a freedom in admitting I need rescuing, and in gaining a greater compassion for others. I'm so glad we serve a God who delights in reaching down from heaven to give His beloved children a helping hand.
Heavenly Father, I praise You and thank You for being powerful enough to rescue me. Thank You for loving me so much that You sent Jesus to pay the debt for my sin, a debt I couldn't pay. Help me not be so self-reliant that I neglect to ask for Your help. Fill me with love and compassion for those who need my help as well. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Related Resources:
Do You Know Him?
Who Holds the Key to Your Heart by Lysa TerKeurst
Sponsor a child through Compassion International
Application Steps:
Identify one problem in your life right now. Write out a prayer on a 3"x5" card asking God for His help with that problem. Post the card where you'll see it every day, continue to pray, and watch for God's answer.
Reflections:
What keeps you from asking for help? (either from other people or from God)
Read Psalm 91. What are some of the ways God rescues us, according to this passage?
What is our part in the rescue?
Power Verses:
Galatians 1:3-5, "Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave himself for our sins to rescue us from the present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen." (NIV)
Psalm 30: 1-2, "I will exalt you, O LORD, for you lifted me out of the depths and did not let my enemies gloat over me. O LORD my God, I called to you for help and you healed me." (NIV)
Psalm 18:19, "He brought me out into a spacious place; he rescued me because he delighted in me." (NIV)
Proverbs 31 Ministries
616-G, Matthews-Mint Hill Road
Matthews, NC 28105
www.Proverbs31.org
By Glynnis Whitwer
"The Lord says, "I will rescue those who love me.
I will protect those who trust in my name." Psalm 91:14 (NLT)
Devotion:
All climbers preparing to brave the extremes of Mount McKinley/Denali in Alaska must first check in at the Talkeetna Ranger Station. Here, mountaineering rangers give last-minute preparation and safety talks before hikers are flown to Base Camp at 7,200 feet.
Although we would only view the stunning mountain from afar, this summer my family got to hear a portion of what the climbers hear before beginning their ascent. The kids loved the part about packing out your own "waste." But the most striking part to me was the necessity of being prepared to "self-rescue."
In other words, if you fall into a crevasse, have a plan to get your self out! Because rescues can cost up to $30,000 and put the rescuers at great personal risk, it was easy to understand this advice. I nodded my head in agreement. I've always felt people should be prepared to rescue themselves from trouble.
Less than a month after that Alaskan trip, I went to Ecuador with Proverbs 31 and Compassion International. More than traveling from the northern to the southern hemisphere, God took me on a trip to transform my thinking.
As I stood at the top of a garbage-strewn street in Quito (a far cry from Denali National Park ), I looked over structures built with broken bricks and tin and on past to a city of 13 million mostly poor inhabitants, God smashed my "self-rescue" mentality.
Here before me were people who had no way to rescue themselves. Their poverty, and all that goes with it, had eliminated their ability to change their circumstances. Their only hope was brought to them by other people. Into this desperate situation walked humble servants of Jesus ... wiping runny noses, feeding hungry children, training moms to care for babies, tutoring students and teaching about the saving love of Jesus.
God used that trip to Ecuador to show me His heart for the poor, and something more. God showed me that I'm not so different from the beautiful Ecuadorians I met. As much as I like to be independent and rescue myself, I can't. Not only that, but God never meant for me to.
God created me with a deep need for Him. Every step towards greater self-sufficiency takes me further from God's help. I fight this dependency on God at times, falsely believing I must "self rescue." And yet when I do ask for God's help with any worries or concerns, I wonder why I stubbornly waited so long.
There are many things I can't do on my own. To name just a few, I can't love those who have hurt me or forgive great offenses without God's help. And I will never be "good enough" to enter God's presence in heaven without the ultimate price that was paid by Jesus' death on the cross.
There's a freedom in admitting I need rescuing, and in gaining a greater compassion for others. I'm so glad we serve a God who delights in reaching down from heaven to give His beloved children a helping hand.
Heavenly Father, I praise You and thank You for being powerful enough to rescue me. Thank You for loving me so much that You sent Jesus to pay the debt for my sin, a debt I couldn't pay. Help me not be so self-reliant that I neglect to ask for Your help. Fill me with love and compassion for those who need my help as well. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Related Resources:
Do You Know Him?
Who Holds the Key to Your Heart by Lysa TerKeurst
Sponsor a child through Compassion International
Application Steps:
Identify one problem in your life right now. Write out a prayer on a 3"x5" card asking God for His help with that problem. Post the card where you'll see it every day, continue to pray, and watch for God's answer.
Reflections:
What keeps you from asking for help? (either from other people or from God)
Read Psalm 91. What are some of the ways God rescues us, according to this passage?
What is our part in the rescue?
Power Verses:
Galatians 1:3-5, "Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave himself for our sins to rescue us from the present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen." (NIV)
Psalm 30: 1-2, "I will exalt you, O LORD, for you lifted me out of the depths and did not let my enemies gloat over me. O LORD my God, I called to you for help and you healed me." (NIV)
Psalm 18:19, "He brought me out into a spacious place; he rescued me because he delighted in me." (NIV)
Proverbs 31 Ministries
616-G, Matthews-Mint Hill Road
Matthews, NC 28105
www.Proverbs31.org
Angelic Intervention through Intercession
Angelic Intervention
through Intercession
by James W. Goll
REVIEW: THE MINISTRY AND FUNCTION OF ANGELS
A. Three Primary Functions
1. Psalms 148:2,5 - Praise and worship unto God.
2. Heb. 1:7,14 - Ministering spirits, flames of fire to render service to those who will inherit salvation.
3. Psalms 103:20,21 - Angels excel in strength, obey the voice of His word, and perform God's word.
B. Types of Activities
1. Minister the presence of the Lord.
2. Messengers pronouncing God's will.
3. Release understanding in dreams and visions.
4. Help to give guidance and direction.
5. Deliverance.
6. Protection.
7. Death of the saints.
8. Release strength.
9. Healing instruments.
10. Praise and worship.
11. Spiritual Warfare
12. Bind demonic powers.
13. Divine watchers.
14. Reapers.
15. Judgment.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FIVE PRIMARY PREMISES
A. Co-Workers with Christ
God's resources are released by man's invitation of intercession.
B. Answered Prayers
Prayer or intercession influence or help determine the destiny of individuals and the destiny of nations.
C. There is an Innumerable Company of Angels
They are waiting to be dispatched - (Unemployed Angels!)
Jer. 33:22 - “As the hosts of heaven cannot be counted and the sand of the sea cannot be measured.”
Heb. 12:22 - “But you have come to Mt. Zion and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to myriads of angels.”
D. Angels Have Their “Hands into Everything”
They are involved in facets of everyday life, and are involved in the normal activities of man.
E. Angels Deliver the Answers to Mans Prayers
Angels are especially utilized and involved in delivering the answers to our prayers from the throne of God.
THREE SCRIPTURAL EXAMPLES OF ANGELIC
INTERVENTION THROUGH INTERCESSION
A. Abraham In Genesis 18 and 19
l. Gen. 18 - Prayerful example of Abraham’s intercession for Sodom and Gomorrah.
2. Gen. 19: 1 - Two angels tell Lot's situation.
3. Gen. 19:11 - The ungodly men outside Lot's house are stricken with blindness.
4. Gen. 19:16 - Next, the angels lead Lot and his family out of the city before the destruction takes place. (This demonstrates the compassion of God.)
5. Gen. 19:20 - Hurry, escape there, for I cannot do anything until... This shows God’s desire to deliver the righteous before the judgment occurred.
6. Gen. 19:29 - God remembered Abraham. (This is the key verse.) What did God remember? Abraham’s intercession!
B. Peter - Lessons From Acts 12:7-12
1. Acts 12:7-10 - Peter was kept in jail, an angel appeared to him. A light shone, woke Peter up, and the two chains which had held him fell off. He was told to “Gird thyself, and bind on thy sandals.” He then passed by two guards, the iron gate to the prison opened, he goes out into the street as angel departed.
2. Acts 12:11-12 - Next, Peter goes to the house of John Mark’s mother where many had gathered to pray for him. A young woman named Rhoda came to door. She knew Peter's voice and went to tell the others, "You're crazy!" was their response. "No, it is his angel.” Peter kept on knocking. They went to the door, and opening it, were amazed. It really was Peter! This caused such excitement that Peter had to admonish them to calm down and not be so noisy in their excitement to see him delivered out of the hand of Herod and those Jewish authorities who had sought to end his life. Peter told them to inform James and the other apostles that he was alright after all. When the matter become known to the wicked king, he demanded the lives of the jail keepers as punishment that they had somehow managed to allow Peter to escape.
3. Acts 12:5-12 The emphasis is on verses 5 and 12. What was the church doing before the angel was released? Praying fervently!
C. Daniel Example
1. Dan. 9:20-23 - “Gabriel, whom I had seen in the vision at the beginning, being caused to fly swiftly, touched me.”
2. Dan. 10:12-14 - “Gabriel said, “For from the first day that thou didst set thine heart...thy words were heard, and I am come for thy words.”
3. Dan. 10:20,21 - “And now will I return to fight with the prince of Persia.”
TWO CLOSING PRINCIPLES
A. Revelation 8 and 16
1. Rev. 8:3-7
a. First: Angels gather the praise and prayer of the saints (vs.4)
b. Second: Goes into censer with the fire on the on altar before God
(vs.2, 5).
c. Third: It is thrown back down to earth.
2. Why?
a. Mercy triumphs over judgment.
b. Pockets of mercy amidst the judgment of God.
3. Rev. 8:5 - Then voices, thunderings, lightnings, earthquake, (signs and wonders)
are released.
4. Rev. 8:6 - Then angels prepare to blow trumpets so that the righteous end-time judgments of God begin.
5. The supernatural activities in Rev.-16 are inter- related to those found in Rev.-8.
B. Ezekiel 9:3- “And the glory of the God of Israel was gone up from the cherub, whereupon he was, to the threshold of the house. And he called to the man clothed with linen, which had the writer’s inkhorn by his side. And the Lord said unto him, Go through the midst of the city, through the midst of Jerusalem, and set a mark upon the foreheads of the men that sigh and that cry for all the abominations that be done in the midst thereof. And to the others he said in mine haring, Go ye after him through the city, and smite: let not your eye spare, neither have ye pity: Slay utterly old and young, both maids, and little children, and women: but come not near any man upon whom is the mark; and begin at my sanctuary. Then they began at the ancient men which were before the house.”
1. The angel was told by God to mark the intercessors.
2. What was the mark put upon the foreheads of the people?
Some say it was the Hebrew letter Taw, which resembles the cross of Christ. Jack Hayford comments from the Sprit-Filled Life Bible which he edited: “The Hebrew word for “mark” is taw, the final letter of the Hebrew alphabet, which in the ancient script looked like an “X” or a cross. This mark, placed by a seventh warrior angel “clothed with linen” (v. 3), was for protection (see Rev. 7:3) and symbolized that God would spare the righteous remnant.”
3. Who received this mark from the angel? All who sighed and groaned over the abominations of the city of Jerusalem were privileged to receive this sign of protection.
Yes, it is true! Angelic intervention is released in response to man’s intercession.
CLOSING PRAYER
“Lord, send forth angels in our behalf. Raise up a hedge of protection around each one who reads this Bible Study. Release the angels that are guardians over Israel in this hour. Send forth your winds and fires for Jesus Christ sake! Amen and Amen!”
BLESSINGS TO YOU!
James W. Goll
through Intercession
by James W. Goll
REVIEW: THE MINISTRY AND FUNCTION OF ANGELS
A. Three Primary Functions
1. Psalms 148:2,5 - Praise and worship unto God.
2. Heb. 1:7,14 - Ministering spirits, flames of fire to render service to those who will inherit salvation.
3. Psalms 103:20,21 - Angels excel in strength, obey the voice of His word, and perform God's word.
B. Types of Activities
1. Minister the presence of the Lord.
2. Messengers pronouncing God's will.
3. Release understanding in dreams and visions.
4. Help to give guidance and direction.
5. Deliverance.
6. Protection.
7. Death of the saints.
8. Release strength.
9. Healing instruments.
10. Praise and worship.
11. Spiritual Warfare
12. Bind demonic powers.
13. Divine watchers.
14. Reapers.
15. Judgment.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FIVE PRIMARY PREMISES
A. Co-Workers with Christ
God's resources are released by man's invitation of intercession.
B. Answered Prayers
Prayer or intercession influence or help determine the destiny of individuals and the destiny of nations.
C. There is an Innumerable Company of Angels
They are waiting to be dispatched - (Unemployed Angels!)
Jer. 33:22 - “As the hosts of heaven cannot be counted and the sand of the sea cannot be measured.”
Heb. 12:22 - “But you have come to Mt. Zion and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to myriads of angels.”
D. Angels Have Their “Hands into Everything”
They are involved in facets of everyday life, and are involved in the normal activities of man.
E. Angels Deliver the Answers to Mans Prayers
Angels are especially utilized and involved in delivering the answers to our prayers from the throne of God.
THREE SCRIPTURAL EXAMPLES OF ANGELIC
INTERVENTION THROUGH INTERCESSION
A. Abraham In Genesis 18 and 19
l. Gen. 18 - Prayerful example of Abraham’s intercession for Sodom and Gomorrah.
2. Gen. 19: 1 - Two angels tell Lot's situation.
3. Gen. 19:11 - The ungodly men outside Lot's house are stricken with blindness.
4. Gen. 19:16 - Next, the angels lead Lot and his family out of the city before the destruction takes place. (This demonstrates the compassion of God.)
5. Gen. 19:20 - Hurry, escape there, for I cannot do anything until... This shows God’s desire to deliver the righteous before the judgment occurred.
6. Gen. 19:29 - God remembered Abraham. (This is the key verse.) What did God remember? Abraham’s intercession!
B. Peter - Lessons From Acts 12:7-12
1. Acts 12:7-10 - Peter was kept in jail, an angel appeared to him. A light shone, woke Peter up, and the two chains which had held him fell off. He was told to “Gird thyself, and bind on thy sandals.” He then passed by two guards, the iron gate to the prison opened, he goes out into the street as angel departed.
2. Acts 12:11-12 - Next, Peter goes to the house of John Mark’s mother where many had gathered to pray for him. A young woman named Rhoda came to door. She knew Peter's voice and went to tell the others, "You're crazy!" was their response. "No, it is his angel.” Peter kept on knocking. They went to the door, and opening it, were amazed. It really was Peter! This caused such excitement that Peter had to admonish them to calm down and not be so noisy in their excitement to see him delivered out of the hand of Herod and those Jewish authorities who had sought to end his life. Peter told them to inform James and the other apostles that he was alright after all. When the matter become known to the wicked king, he demanded the lives of the jail keepers as punishment that they had somehow managed to allow Peter to escape.
3. Acts 12:5-12 The emphasis is on verses 5 and 12. What was the church doing before the angel was released? Praying fervently!
C. Daniel Example
1. Dan. 9:20-23 - “Gabriel, whom I had seen in the vision at the beginning, being caused to fly swiftly, touched me.”
2. Dan. 10:12-14 - “Gabriel said, “For from the first day that thou didst set thine heart...thy words were heard, and I am come for thy words.”
3. Dan. 10:20,21 - “And now will I return to fight with the prince of Persia.”
TWO CLOSING PRINCIPLES
A. Revelation 8 and 16
1. Rev. 8:3-7
a. First: Angels gather the praise and prayer of the saints (vs.4)
b. Second: Goes into censer with the fire on the on altar before God
(vs.2, 5).
c. Third: It is thrown back down to earth.
2. Why?
a. Mercy triumphs over judgment.
b. Pockets of mercy amidst the judgment of God.
3. Rev. 8:5 - Then voices, thunderings, lightnings, earthquake, (signs and wonders)
are released.
4. Rev. 8:6 - Then angels prepare to blow trumpets so that the righteous end-time judgments of God begin.
5. The supernatural activities in Rev.-16 are inter- related to those found in Rev.-8.
B. Ezekiel 9:3- “And the glory of the God of Israel was gone up from the cherub, whereupon he was, to the threshold of the house. And he called to the man clothed with linen, which had the writer’s inkhorn by his side. And the Lord said unto him, Go through the midst of the city, through the midst of Jerusalem, and set a mark upon the foreheads of the men that sigh and that cry for all the abominations that be done in the midst thereof. And to the others he said in mine haring, Go ye after him through the city, and smite: let not your eye spare, neither have ye pity: Slay utterly old and young, both maids, and little children, and women: but come not near any man upon whom is the mark; and begin at my sanctuary. Then they began at the ancient men which were before the house.”
1. The angel was told by God to mark the intercessors.
2. What was the mark put upon the foreheads of the people?
Some say it was the Hebrew letter Taw, which resembles the cross of Christ. Jack Hayford comments from the Sprit-Filled Life Bible which he edited: “The Hebrew word for “mark” is taw, the final letter of the Hebrew alphabet, which in the ancient script looked like an “X” or a cross. This mark, placed by a seventh warrior angel “clothed with linen” (v. 3), was for protection (see Rev. 7:3) and symbolized that God would spare the righteous remnant.”
3. Who received this mark from the angel? All who sighed and groaned over the abominations of the city of Jerusalem were privileged to receive this sign of protection.
Yes, it is true! Angelic intervention is released in response to man’s intercession.
CLOSING PRAYER
“Lord, send forth angels in our behalf. Raise up a hedge of protection around each one who reads this Bible Study. Release the angels that are guardians over Israel in this hour. Send forth your winds and fires for Jesus Christ sake! Amen and Amen!”
BLESSINGS TO YOU!
James W. Goll
The Greatest Calling
The Greatest Calling
Woodrow Kroll
Genesis 12:1-3
Now the Lord had said to Abram: "Get out of your country, from your kindred and from your father’s house, to a land that I will show you. I will make you a great nation; I will bless you and make your name great; and you shall be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and I will curse him who curses you; and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed."
An oil company needed a suave public relations man for its office in Asia. After interviewing several candidates, the officials decided to ask a local missionary to take the position. Company executives met with this man of unusual gifts. Whatever they proposed, however, his answer was always "no." "What’s wrong?" asked one interviewer. "Isn’t the salary big enough?" The missionary replied, "The salary is big enough, but the job isn’t."
Abraham was faced with a similar option. He could have stayed in Haran and become a leading citizen. As a natural-born leader, he may have become ruler of the city. Most certainly, as a clever businessman, he would have become wealthy and lived in luxury and ease. But all that was insignificant compared to what God had in mind for him. By obeying God’s call, he became a blessing to the whole world.
God still calls people today. Maybe He is calling you to be a pastor or missionary or church leader. On the other hand, He may be calling you to be an active witness for Him in your place of secular employment. But you also may be facing alternatives. Another position may offer a bigger salary, a bigger office or less hassle. Don’t be fooled. Seek God’s direction. Wherever He is calling you will bring the greatest blessing—to you and to those around you.
When God calls, accepting anything else is no bargain.
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Father: I know that I am often head-strong and in need of renewing my mind to realize that You have a good and perfect will for me - if I diligently seek it and desire to walk in it. Continue to search my heart oh God and continue to teach me YOUR ways. Don't allow me to become stagnant and hardened to Your Wonder all around me. Renew my mind by the Washing of Your Word. In Jesus Name I Pray, Amen and Amen.
Woodrow Kroll
Genesis 12:1-3
Now the Lord had said to Abram: "Get out of your country, from your kindred and from your father’s house, to a land that I will show you. I will make you a great nation; I will bless you and make your name great; and you shall be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and I will curse him who curses you; and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed."
An oil company needed a suave public relations man for its office in Asia. After interviewing several candidates, the officials decided to ask a local missionary to take the position. Company executives met with this man of unusual gifts. Whatever they proposed, however, his answer was always "no." "What’s wrong?" asked one interviewer. "Isn’t the salary big enough?" The missionary replied, "The salary is big enough, but the job isn’t."
Abraham was faced with a similar option. He could have stayed in Haran and become a leading citizen. As a natural-born leader, he may have become ruler of the city. Most certainly, as a clever businessman, he would have become wealthy and lived in luxury and ease. But all that was insignificant compared to what God had in mind for him. By obeying God’s call, he became a blessing to the whole world.
God still calls people today. Maybe He is calling you to be a pastor or missionary or church leader. On the other hand, He may be calling you to be an active witness for Him in your place of secular employment. But you also may be facing alternatives. Another position may offer a bigger salary, a bigger office or less hassle. Don’t be fooled. Seek God’s direction. Wherever He is calling you will bring the greatest blessing—to you and to those around you.
When God calls, accepting anything else is no bargain.
<><><><><><> <><><><><> <><><><> <><><> <><> <> <><> <><><> <><><><> <><><><><> <><><><><><>
Father: I know that I am often head-strong and in need of renewing my mind to realize that You have a good and perfect will for me - if I diligently seek it and desire to walk in it. Continue to search my heart oh God and continue to teach me YOUR ways. Don't allow me to become stagnant and hardened to Your Wonder all around me. Renew my mind by the Washing of Your Word. In Jesus Name I Pray, Amen and Amen.
Tested for Abundance
Tested for Abundance
by Os Hillman, October 14, 2007
We went through fire and water, but you brought us to a place of abundance. - Psalm 66:12b
It is nice to hear that God desires to bring us into abundance. In fact, many a preacher has promoted the goodness of the Lord and His ability to prosper His children. Alas, my experience is that this gospel of material abundance has little to do with the gospel of the Kingdom as our Lord works in the realm of the sanctified soul. The passage above tells us that God does in fact bring us into places of abundance. However, upon further study of the entire passage, we learn the route to this abundance.
For you, O God, tested us; You refined us like silver. You brought us into prison and laid burdens on our backs. You let men ride over our heads; we went through fire and water, but You brought us to a place of abundance (Psalm 66:10-12).
God's economy of abundance often has little to do with material blessing. In God's economy, abundance is often measured in wisdom and knowledge of Himself. It is then that we are truly blessed. Wisdom cannot be gained through intellectual pursuits. Wisdom comes only through experience. Real wisdom comes from the kinds of experiences that come only through the deepest tests. Lessons of refinement, including prison accompanied by burdens, lead us through the fire and water. This is the territory that must be traveled to reach that place of abundance. It would seem strange that a loving God would use such means with His children. What we often fail to realize is that God's measuring stick is the character and likeness of Jesus Christ Himself in each of us. This cannot be gained through a life of ease and pleasure. Ease and pleasure fail to refine.
Is God using your workplace to refine you today? Has He placed you in a prison or laid burdens on your back? Take heart if this is the place you find yourself, and realize that if you are faithful through the tests, you will enter a place of abundance that few will ever attain. The darkest hour is just before daybreak
by Os Hillman, October 14, 2007
We went through fire and water, but you brought us to a place of abundance. - Psalm 66:12b
It is nice to hear that God desires to bring us into abundance. In fact, many a preacher has promoted the goodness of the Lord and His ability to prosper His children. Alas, my experience is that this gospel of material abundance has little to do with the gospel of the Kingdom as our Lord works in the realm of the sanctified soul. The passage above tells us that God does in fact bring us into places of abundance. However, upon further study of the entire passage, we learn the route to this abundance.
For you, O God, tested us; You refined us like silver. You brought us into prison and laid burdens on our backs. You let men ride over our heads; we went through fire and water, but You brought us to a place of abundance (Psalm 66:10-12).
God's economy of abundance often has little to do with material blessing. In God's economy, abundance is often measured in wisdom and knowledge of Himself. It is then that we are truly blessed. Wisdom cannot be gained through intellectual pursuits. Wisdom comes only through experience. Real wisdom comes from the kinds of experiences that come only through the deepest tests. Lessons of refinement, including prison accompanied by burdens, lead us through the fire and water. This is the territory that must be traveled to reach that place of abundance. It would seem strange that a loving God would use such means with His children. What we often fail to realize is that God's measuring stick is the character and likeness of Jesus Christ Himself in each of us. This cannot be gained through a life of ease and pleasure. Ease and pleasure fail to refine.
Is God using your workplace to refine you today? Has He placed you in a prison or laid burdens on your back? Take heart if this is the place you find yourself, and realize that if you are faithful through the tests, you will enter a place of abundance that few will ever attain. The darkest hour is just before daybreak
Get Real
Get Real
By Tracie Miles
“And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory; which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.”
2 Corinthians 3:18 (NIV)
Devotion:
I was sitting in Sunday School listening to prayer requests being mentioned. Prayer needs varied - someone’s neighbors were having marital problems; a co-worker was having a problem with her boss; a friend whose child was being rebellious; a family member’s health issues. A few were personal requests such as an important decision about work, a scheduled surgery, and safe travels for vacation. All the prayer requests were valid and prayer-worthy, but I started to wonder if we were really being real with one another. Why were we not asking for prayers for our own struggles - our own marriage struggles, our own children, or our own challenges in living a Christ-like life?
I had many prayer requests on my heart that morning but instead of sharing them with my Christian friends, I kept them hidden in my heart. Part of me yearned for their prayers, but part of me also feared sharing my most personal issues and concerns with others. Instead of focusing on the truth that God would hear the prayers of these prayer warriors and divinely intervene in my life, I focused on my own insecurities, and the fear of being judged for circumstances in my life or the condition of my own heart. I finally realized we all needed to get real, and that by keeping our struggles to ourselves, we were denying each other the opportunity to be encouraged by hearing the triumphs over trials in other people’s lives.
In today’s society, we have a tendency to focus more on outward appearances than on the inward condition of our hearts. We may have a smile on our face on the outside; but on the inside, our heart is aching, and our soul is pleading for someone to care enough about us to speak with God on our behalf. Our hearts need to be in God-condition for us to be confident enough in our faith to allow us to solicit the prayers of others. In so doing, we glorify Christ through our lives. If we truly desire a character like Christ’s, we must be willing to expose our weaknesses, shed our hypocrisy and stop pretending that our life is a bowl of cherries. God calls us to be transparent.
The Lord made it clear to Samuel that he did not care about what was on the outside. 1 Samuel 16:7 says, “But the LORD said to Samuel, ‘Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.’" Samuel was in the process of determining which son of Jesse God wanted to become the king of Israel . Samuel was looking at the outside, instead of the inside condition of the heart.
When I am transparent, I allow people to see, pray for, and love the “real me.” Being real and vulnerable helps me to be usable for God. Once my mask is removed God can use the “real me” to minister to others. Sharing about a restored marriage, about forgiving someone who betrayed you, about a repaired relationship, about spiritual healing from an abortion, or recovery from an addiction could be exactly what someone else needs to hear so that their life, and their heart, can be changed. If people think we “have it all together,” they are less likely to share their struggles. This could close the doors God opens for us to minister to others so that we can help them remove their masks, as well.
By removing our own masks, we can be transformed into vessels for to God use to bring glory to His kingdom. Not only will people see the prayer needs in our lives, they will also see the transparency of a sinner being transformed by being real and praying to a faithful God.
Dear Lord, help me take off the masks I wear so that I can be real to others. Give me the strength to look past my own insecurities and fears, so that I can use my experiences to help others learn to see You working in their lives. Please bring people into my path that I can minister to by being a vessel for Your mighty work. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Related Resources:
Do You Know Him?
Beautiful in God’s Eyes by Elizabeth George
Reinventing Your Rainbow by Tracie Miles
Application Steps:
Ask God to show you how you can minister to someone by sharing your victory over a difficult situation.
Reflections:
Am I willing to be real with my friends and acquaintances?
Am I more concerned with my outward appearance than the condition of my heart?
Power Verse:
2 Corinthians 3:16, “But whenever anyone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away.” (NIV)
Proverbs 31 Ministries
616-G, Matthews-Mint Hill Road
Matthews, NC 28105
www.Proverbs31.org
By Tracie Miles
“And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory; which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.”
2 Corinthians 3:18 (NIV)
Devotion:
I was sitting in Sunday School listening to prayer requests being mentioned. Prayer needs varied - someone’s neighbors were having marital problems; a co-worker was having a problem with her boss; a friend whose child was being rebellious; a family member’s health issues. A few were personal requests such as an important decision about work, a scheduled surgery, and safe travels for vacation. All the prayer requests were valid and prayer-worthy, but I started to wonder if we were really being real with one another. Why were we not asking for prayers for our own struggles - our own marriage struggles, our own children, or our own challenges in living a Christ-like life?
I had many prayer requests on my heart that morning but instead of sharing them with my Christian friends, I kept them hidden in my heart. Part of me yearned for their prayers, but part of me also feared sharing my most personal issues and concerns with others. Instead of focusing on the truth that God would hear the prayers of these prayer warriors and divinely intervene in my life, I focused on my own insecurities, and the fear of being judged for circumstances in my life or the condition of my own heart. I finally realized we all needed to get real, and that by keeping our struggles to ourselves, we were denying each other the opportunity to be encouraged by hearing the triumphs over trials in other people’s lives.
In today’s society, we have a tendency to focus more on outward appearances than on the inward condition of our hearts. We may have a smile on our face on the outside; but on the inside, our heart is aching, and our soul is pleading for someone to care enough about us to speak with God on our behalf. Our hearts need to be in God-condition for us to be confident enough in our faith to allow us to solicit the prayers of others. In so doing, we glorify Christ through our lives. If we truly desire a character like Christ’s, we must be willing to expose our weaknesses, shed our hypocrisy and stop pretending that our life is a bowl of cherries. God calls us to be transparent.
The Lord made it clear to Samuel that he did not care about what was on the outside. 1 Samuel 16:7 says, “But the LORD said to Samuel, ‘Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.’" Samuel was in the process of determining which son of Jesse God wanted to become the king of Israel . Samuel was looking at the outside, instead of the inside condition of the heart.
When I am transparent, I allow people to see, pray for, and love the “real me.” Being real and vulnerable helps me to be usable for God. Once my mask is removed God can use the “real me” to minister to others. Sharing about a restored marriage, about forgiving someone who betrayed you, about a repaired relationship, about spiritual healing from an abortion, or recovery from an addiction could be exactly what someone else needs to hear so that their life, and their heart, can be changed. If people think we “have it all together,” they are less likely to share their struggles. This could close the doors God opens for us to minister to others so that we can help them remove their masks, as well.
By removing our own masks, we can be transformed into vessels for to God use to bring glory to His kingdom. Not only will people see the prayer needs in our lives, they will also see the transparency of a sinner being transformed by being real and praying to a faithful God.
Dear Lord, help me take off the masks I wear so that I can be real to others. Give me the strength to look past my own insecurities and fears, so that I can use my experiences to help others learn to see You working in their lives. Please bring people into my path that I can minister to by being a vessel for Your mighty work. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Related Resources:
Do You Know Him?
Beautiful in God’s Eyes by Elizabeth George
Reinventing Your Rainbow by Tracie Miles
Application Steps:
Ask God to show you how you can minister to someone by sharing your victory over a difficult situation.
Reflections:
Am I willing to be real with my friends and acquaintances?
Am I more concerned with my outward appearance than the condition of my heart?
Power Verse:
2 Corinthians 3:16, “But whenever anyone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away.” (NIV)
Proverbs 31 Ministries
616-G, Matthews-Mint Hill Road
Matthews, NC 28105
www.Proverbs31.org
When Insecurity Turns Evil
When Insecurity Turns Evil
by Os Hillman, October 16, 2007
Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. -Romans 12:15
Saul was very angry; this refrain galled him. "They have credited David with tens of thousands," he thought, "but me with only thousands. What more can he get but the kingdom?" (1 Samuel 18:8)
This statement caused something to snap in King Saul. From this point on, Saul was never the leader God intended him to be. He allowed insecurity to drive his every decision. Insecurity leads to the need to control people and circumstances. The need to control leads to anger once we realize we are unable to control the circumstance. King Saul could not accept, much less rejoice, over David's success. David's life would never be the same, because Saul sought to kill David every chance he had. Saul had a choice; he could have seen David as an up-and-coming general in his army who could have become an important part of his team and made the kingdom of Israel even stronger. Instead, he looked at him as a threat.
When you hear good news about fellow workers or associates, do you rejoice with them? If you find yourself comparing your life's circumstances to others and don't feel you measure up, recognize that this is one of satan's greatest ploys to destroy you.
Christ has given you all things in Him. He has a unique plan for you that cannot be compared to another. He alone is your security. Trust in the purposes He has for your life. And remember, "My God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:19 KJV).
by Os Hillman, October 16, 2007
Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. -Romans 12:15
Saul was very angry; this refrain galled him. "They have credited David with tens of thousands," he thought, "but me with only thousands. What more can he get but the kingdom?" (1 Samuel 18:8)
This statement caused something to snap in King Saul. From this point on, Saul was never the leader God intended him to be. He allowed insecurity to drive his every decision. Insecurity leads to the need to control people and circumstances. The need to control leads to anger once we realize we are unable to control the circumstance. King Saul could not accept, much less rejoice, over David's success. David's life would never be the same, because Saul sought to kill David every chance he had. Saul had a choice; he could have seen David as an up-and-coming general in his army who could have become an important part of his team and made the kingdom of Israel even stronger. Instead, he looked at him as a threat.
When you hear good news about fellow workers or associates, do you rejoice with them? If you find yourself comparing your life's circumstances to others and don't feel you measure up, recognize that this is one of satan's greatest ploys to destroy you.
Christ has given you all things in Him. He has a unique plan for you that cannot be compared to another. He alone is your security. Trust in the purposes He has for your life. And remember, "My God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:19 KJV).
A Time for Silence
A Time for Silence
By Greg Laurie
To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven: . . .
A time to keep silence, and a time to speak.
Ecclesiastes 3:1, 7
I can think of so many times when I should have kept silent, but I just had to speak. On more than one occasion, I have said something, and the moment it left my lips, I thought, Why did I just say that? But I said it.
Have you ever been in a situation where you wanted to say the perfect thing, but instead, you ended up saying the lamest thing possible?
It reminds me of when Peter, along with James and John, witnessed the Transfiguration of Jesus. Jesus' face and clothes were suddenly shining like the sun, and Moses and Elijah appeared and spoke with Jesus. As this conversation was taking place, Peter blurted out, "Rabbi, it is good for us to be here . . . " (Mark 9:5). Mark includes this interesting commentary: "He did not know what to say, for they were greatly afraid" (verse 6).
But Peter wasn't quite finished. He said, "Let us make three tabernacles: one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah" (verse 5).
I wonder if Moses turned to Jesus and asked, "Who is that guy?"
"Oh, that is Rock. Never mind."
How easily thoughts can jump into our minds, and we just say them without thinking. But how much better it is to think about it a moment and ask ourselves, Is this the right thing to say? Would this be an appropriate statement to make? Would this glorify the Lord?
As the old proverb says, "Better to be silent and be thought a fool than to open your mouth and remove all doubt."
There is a time to speak. And there is a time to be quiet.
By Greg Laurie
To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven: . . .
A time to keep silence, and a time to speak.
Ecclesiastes 3:1, 7
I can think of so many times when I should have kept silent, but I just had to speak. On more than one occasion, I have said something, and the moment it left my lips, I thought, Why did I just say that? But I said it.
Have you ever been in a situation where you wanted to say the perfect thing, but instead, you ended up saying the lamest thing possible?
It reminds me of when Peter, along with James and John, witnessed the Transfiguration of Jesus. Jesus' face and clothes were suddenly shining like the sun, and Moses and Elijah appeared and spoke with Jesus. As this conversation was taking place, Peter blurted out, "Rabbi, it is good for us to be here . . . " (Mark 9:5). Mark includes this interesting commentary: "He did not know what to say, for they were greatly afraid" (verse 6).
But Peter wasn't quite finished. He said, "Let us make three tabernacles: one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah" (verse 5).
I wonder if Moses turned to Jesus and asked, "Who is that guy?"
"Oh, that is Rock. Never mind."
How easily thoughts can jump into our minds, and we just say them without thinking. But how much better it is to think about it a moment and ask ourselves, Is this the right thing to say? Would this be an appropriate statement to make? Would this glorify the Lord?
As the old proverb says, "Better to be silent and be thought a fool than to open your mouth and remove all doubt."
There is a time to speak. And there is a time to be quiet.
The Secret Of A Healthy Dad
The Secret Of A Healthy Dad
New Living Translation
Ephesians 6:4 ~nlt~
Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.
Recently I read of a young man who received an unusual Christmas present. The young boy peeled back the layers of wrapping paper from the tiny box. Inside he found a small, hand-written note from his father. “Son,” it read, “this year I will give you 365 hours, an hour every day after dinner.”
“This simple present became the greatest gift I ever had in my life,” explained the boy as an adult. “My dad not only kept his promise, but every year he renewed it. I am the result of his time.”
One hour after dinner is all it took to change this boy’s life forever. One hour of leading, loving, and learning. It is such a simple idea, an obvious one.
Time for our family is like oxygen to our bodies—there’s a minimum necessary for survival. And it takes quantity as well as quality to develop warm and caring relationships.
What can Dads do?
Determine balanced priorities. Ask God to help you order your life according to his priorities. Think through your promotions. Often promotions come with a corresponding increase in workload and hours. Consider changing jobs. No job is worth sacrificing your spouse or children. Stop gift-wrapping the garbage. In other words, look beyond the attractive “wrappings” of anything that will drive you to perfection and sacrifice valuable time with your family. Slow down and live. For many of us, the pace of our lives is self-imposed. We do have a choice about what we do and the schedule we keep.
A man whose family was so infatuated with time that he could rarely enjoy a quiet moment of reflection said, “My Dad was an expert at hurrying. And he inflicted it on our family. We would hurry to go on vacation, hurry to enjoy it, and hurry to drive home, so we could hurry on to something else!”
The misuse of time might be the most pervasive enemy the healthy family has. Dads, determine to make the most of the time you have with your children.
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Father in heaven, please bless my efforts to pass on a vibrant faith to my children and grandchildren. Help me keep my priorities and my schedule in order so I can fulfill this awesome responsibility and this glorious opportunity with the children that I love. In Jesus' name. Amen and Amen
New Living Translation
Ephesians 6:4 ~nlt~
Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.
Recently I read of a young man who received an unusual Christmas present. The young boy peeled back the layers of wrapping paper from the tiny box. Inside he found a small, hand-written note from his father. “Son,” it read, “this year I will give you 365 hours, an hour every day after dinner.”
“This simple present became the greatest gift I ever had in my life,” explained the boy as an adult. “My dad not only kept his promise, but every year he renewed it. I am the result of his time.”
One hour after dinner is all it took to change this boy’s life forever. One hour of leading, loving, and learning. It is such a simple idea, an obvious one.
Time for our family is like oxygen to our bodies—there’s a minimum necessary for survival. And it takes quantity as well as quality to develop warm and caring relationships.
What can Dads do?
Determine balanced priorities. Ask God to help you order your life according to his priorities. Think through your promotions. Often promotions come with a corresponding increase in workload and hours. Consider changing jobs. No job is worth sacrificing your spouse or children. Stop gift-wrapping the garbage. In other words, look beyond the attractive “wrappings” of anything that will drive you to perfection and sacrifice valuable time with your family. Slow down and live. For many of us, the pace of our lives is self-imposed. We do have a choice about what we do and the schedule we keep.
A man whose family was so infatuated with time that he could rarely enjoy a quiet moment of reflection said, “My Dad was an expert at hurrying. And he inflicted it on our family. We would hurry to go on vacation, hurry to enjoy it, and hurry to drive home, so we could hurry on to something else!”
The misuse of time might be the most pervasive enemy the healthy family has. Dads, determine to make the most of the time you have with your children.
<><><><><><> <><><><><> <><><><> <><><> <><> <> <><> <><><> <><><><> <><><><><> <><><><><><>
Father in heaven, please bless my efforts to pass on a vibrant faith to my children and grandchildren. Help me keep my priorities and my schedule in order so I can fulfill this awesome responsibility and this glorious opportunity with the children that I love. In Jesus' name. Amen and Amen
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Do not be ashamed of Jesus
Do Not Be Ashamed Of Jesus!
Bill Gothard
A hotel owner learned that a friend was near death, so he visited him and told him about the eternal life that Jesus offers. Soon after, the hotel owner was invited to become a member of the board of directors of his hotel chain. He told the members of the board how honored he was to be offered such a position but that he probably would not qualify for three reasons. First, he was a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ; second, his family was a greater priority to him than his hotel; and third, he based every decision on the principles of Scripture.
The board replied, “We have discussed these issues, and it is because of them that we want you to be a member of the board.” This man later became vice president of one of the largest hotel chains in the United States. How did these opportunities come about? The friend to whom he had witnessed was a member of the board; before he died he had strongly recommended that this Christian man take over his position.
“In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths” (Proverbs 3:6).
Many have asked me why God has not shown them His will for their lives. One possible answer is that they have not acknowledged Christ in all their ways. This would include the following actions:
Being a living example of Christ’s way of life
Taking advantage of opportunities to tell others about Jesus
Thanking God for your meal in a public place, such as a restaurant
Giving a ready answer when people question your faith
Boldly praying in the name of Jesus before groups
Having a testimony prepared to share what God is doing in your life
Expressing grief when others misuse Jesus’ name
Mark 8:38 has always motivated me to put the fear of man in proper perspective. “Whosoever therefore shall be ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation; of him also shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he cometh in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.”
“We fear men so much, because we fear God so little.”—William Gurnall
Before we condemn Peter for denying that he ever knew Jesus, judge the fearful Pharisees for being secret believers, or question the motives of Nicodemus for coming to Jesus by night, let’s ask ourselves how we have given public evidence that we are not ashamed of Jesus but rather that we are delighted with Him and cannot help but boldly speak about Him.
Through Christ our Lord,
Bill Gothard
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Father of every heavenly light, I ask You to correct me gently as I place myself, my imperfections, failures and sins in Your presence. Forgive and cleanse me by the blood of Jesus so that I might be spotless, holy, and blameless in Your sights. O Lord, I don't want just to be forgiven, I want to be useful to You and Your church. Please help me find my way to usefulness. In Jesus name I pray. Amen and Amen.
Bill Gothard
A hotel owner learned that a friend was near death, so he visited him and told him about the eternal life that Jesus offers. Soon after, the hotel owner was invited to become a member of the board of directors of his hotel chain. He told the members of the board how honored he was to be offered such a position but that he probably would not qualify for three reasons. First, he was a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ; second, his family was a greater priority to him than his hotel; and third, he based every decision on the principles of Scripture.
The board replied, “We have discussed these issues, and it is because of them that we want you to be a member of the board.” This man later became vice president of one of the largest hotel chains in the United States. How did these opportunities come about? The friend to whom he had witnessed was a member of the board; before he died he had strongly recommended that this Christian man take over his position.
“In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths” (Proverbs 3:6).
Many have asked me why God has not shown them His will for their lives. One possible answer is that they have not acknowledged Christ in all their ways. This would include the following actions:
Being a living example of Christ’s way of life
Taking advantage of opportunities to tell others about Jesus
Thanking God for your meal in a public place, such as a restaurant
Giving a ready answer when people question your faith
Boldly praying in the name of Jesus before groups
Having a testimony prepared to share what God is doing in your life
Expressing grief when others misuse Jesus’ name
Mark 8:38 has always motivated me to put the fear of man in proper perspective. “Whosoever therefore shall be ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation; of him also shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he cometh in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.”
“We fear men so much, because we fear God so little.”—William Gurnall
Before we condemn Peter for denying that he ever knew Jesus, judge the fearful Pharisees for being secret believers, or question the motives of Nicodemus for coming to Jesus by night, let’s ask ourselves how we have given public evidence that we are not ashamed of Jesus but rather that we are delighted with Him and cannot help but boldly speak about Him.
Through Christ our Lord,
Bill Gothard
<><><><><><> <><><><><> <><><><> <><><> <><> <> <><> <><><> <><><><> <><><><><> <><><><><><>
Father of every heavenly light, I ask You to correct me gently as I place myself, my imperfections, failures and sins in Your presence. Forgive and cleanse me by the blood of Jesus so that I might be spotless, holy, and blameless in Your sights. O Lord, I don't want just to be forgiven, I want to be useful to You and Your church. Please help me find my way to usefulness. In Jesus name I pray. Amen and Amen.
Retreat Required
Retreat Required
By Karen Ehman
“………he said to them, ‘Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.’” Mark 6:31b (NIV)
Devotion:
I have a confession to make. I am an addict. A serious addict. And I know many others who share my awful obsession. No, it is not to alcohol or drugs or nicotine. It isn’t trashy TV or romance novels. I am addicted to busyness.
My addiction habit began forming long ago when I was just a girl in junior high school. To escape a less-than-perfect broken home, and to numb the emotional pain I was feeling from the fallout, I soon discovered busyness. Yep, sign me up for cheerleading, school newspaper, Spanish Club, National Honor Society, softball, the local youth group, volunteer work and a part–time job to boot! By the time I graduated high school I was involved in more activities than a set of triplets should be. Unfortunately, I carried this trend into my adult life.
In my defense, today we dwell in a society that not only encourages the busy lifestyle, it even applauds and rewards it! And what gal in her right mind doesn’t want an “’atta girl” now and then? Why, our society goes as far as to paint those who live life at a slower pace as freeloaders or slackers. “Why can’t so-and-so help a little with this bake sale? She doesn’t do nearly half as much as I do!”
If left unchecked, our busyness can crowd out the most important things in life—God and our families. I have had to learn the hard way that in order to be an effective woman of God, wife and mother, I need to not only slow down, regularly scraping commitments off of my too full plate, but sometimes I need to stop altogether. As I sit writing this, I am outside at a lovely retreat center on a hill overlooking its grape arbor and pear and apple orchards. My take-life-slow husband strongly suggested I come here occasionally to get alone with God; to read; ponder; write and reflect. I walk the pine and perennial-laced grounds in solitude. There are no television sets or computers or ringing phones; only unfamiliar, but blessed, quiet.
I will be honest and say it has taken me YEARS to get used to this ceasing of activity for occasional 24-48 hour periods of time each year. I fret and fuss as I am packing. “What about the kids? Will they be okay without me? Oh, maybe I should just stay home. I could get so caught up around here with that big chunk of time!” But Christ beckons me. “Come with me by yourselves….” Alone. By myself and for myself. It is for my own good. It is necessary. And ultimately, it is better for my family to have a rested, focused and refreshed mom. On retreat I can best hear from God whom I have discovered most often prefers not to scream over the top of our busyness but instead to whisper to us in quiet.
Yes, in the Christian life retreat is required. Running full steam ahead at Energizer bunny speed is not only stupid, it is downright dangerous. Even the Lord Jesus had regular times of rest and withdrawal. We need to follow His lead. I have come to realize the truth of the saying, “If Satan can’t make you bad, he’ll make you busy.” And dear ones, both states render us useless and ineffective for the kingdom. Decide today that very soon you too will cease, retreat and refuel. You won’t regret it.
Dear Lord, Forgive me for ignoring Your command to come away with You for a while. Please arrange my circumstances soon so that I might spend uninterrupted time with you. May I drink deep of Your lavish love and reflect the calm and comfort I receive to others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Related Resources:
Do You Know Him?
A Life That Says Welcome by Karen Ehman
The Air I Breathe by Louie Gigilio
Application Steps:
Put pen to paper and craft yourself a pie chart of your life. What percent of the time do you spend each month on these various activities: working—away or at home; sleeping; eating; caring for kids; homemaking; church; outside activities; hobbies; Internet or television, etc…? Now, how much time do you spend alone with God? I don’t mean “going to church and church activities” I mean you, God and your Bible, a journal, some worship music and maybe a classic Christian book? Now take a look at the chart in front of you. How would you like to see it change?
Reflections:
Plan today for a retreat in the near future. Be creative. While all towns may not have an inexpensive retreat center open to the public, with a little ingenuity you can come up with a plan. A hotel room, library conference room, church Sunday School classroom or out of the way coffee shop are all places of possibility. Perhaps you are a mom with young children at home ... barter with a friend and you’ll both come out winners. One day you watch all of your combined children at her house while she uses your place for a 9 to 5 weekday retreat. The next week, swap.
To help you focus and forget your worries for a while, try this: Make a prioritized list of all of the things you’d like to accomplish at home and all of the items needing your attention when you return. Fold up the paper, place it in an envelope and mentally and physically leave it home when you go away to retreat. Tell God that you’d love to forget about all of those tasks and focus on Him for the next period of time. Knowing your never ending “to do” list is all made out and waiting for you when you get home will help to keep your mind riveted on God.
Power Verses:
Matthew 11:28-29 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” (NIV)
Psalm 131:1-2 “My heart is not proud, O LORD, my eyes are not haughty; I do not concern myself with great matters or things too wonderful for me. But I have stilled and quieted my soul; like a weaned child with its mother, like a weaned child is my soul within me. (NIV)
Proverbs 31 Ministries
616-G, Matthews-Mint Hill Road
Matthews, NC 28105
www.Proverbs31.org
By Karen Ehman
“………he said to them, ‘Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.’” Mark 6:31b (NIV)
Devotion:
I have a confession to make. I am an addict. A serious addict. And I know many others who share my awful obsession. No, it is not to alcohol or drugs or nicotine. It isn’t trashy TV or romance novels. I am addicted to busyness.
My addiction habit began forming long ago when I was just a girl in junior high school. To escape a less-than-perfect broken home, and to numb the emotional pain I was feeling from the fallout, I soon discovered busyness. Yep, sign me up for cheerleading, school newspaper, Spanish Club, National Honor Society, softball, the local youth group, volunteer work and a part–time job to boot! By the time I graduated high school I was involved in more activities than a set of triplets should be. Unfortunately, I carried this trend into my adult life.
In my defense, today we dwell in a society that not only encourages the busy lifestyle, it even applauds and rewards it! And what gal in her right mind doesn’t want an “’atta girl” now and then? Why, our society goes as far as to paint those who live life at a slower pace as freeloaders or slackers. “Why can’t so-and-so help a little with this bake sale? She doesn’t do nearly half as much as I do!”
If left unchecked, our busyness can crowd out the most important things in life—God and our families. I have had to learn the hard way that in order to be an effective woman of God, wife and mother, I need to not only slow down, regularly scraping commitments off of my too full plate, but sometimes I need to stop altogether. As I sit writing this, I am outside at a lovely retreat center on a hill overlooking its grape arbor and pear and apple orchards. My take-life-slow husband strongly suggested I come here occasionally to get alone with God; to read; ponder; write and reflect. I walk the pine and perennial-laced grounds in solitude. There are no television sets or computers or ringing phones; only unfamiliar, but blessed, quiet.
I will be honest and say it has taken me YEARS to get used to this ceasing of activity for occasional 24-48 hour periods of time each year. I fret and fuss as I am packing. “What about the kids? Will they be okay without me? Oh, maybe I should just stay home. I could get so caught up around here with that big chunk of time!” But Christ beckons me. “Come with me by yourselves….” Alone. By myself and for myself. It is for my own good. It is necessary. And ultimately, it is better for my family to have a rested, focused and refreshed mom. On retreat I can best hear from God whom I have discovered most often prefers not to scream over the top of our busyness but instead to whisper to us in quiet.
Yes, in the Christian life retreat is required. Running full steam ahead at Energizer bunny speed is not only stupid, it is downright dangerous. Even the Lord Jesus had regular times of rest and withdrawal. We need to follow His lead. I have come to realize the truth of the saying, “If Satan can’t make you bad, he’ll make you busy.” And dear ones, both states render us useless and ineffective for the kingdom. Decide today that very soon you too will cease, retreat and refuel. You won’t regret it.
Dear Lord, Forgive me for ignoring Your command to come away with You for a while. Please arrange my circumstances soon so that I might spend uninterrupted time with you. May I drink deep of Your lavish love and reflect the calm and comfort I receive to others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Related Resources:
Do You Know Him?
A Life That Says Welcome by Karen Ehman
The Air I Breathe by Louie Gigilio
Application Steps:
Put pen to paper and craft yourself a pie chart of your life. What percent of the time do you spend each month on these various activities: working—away or at home; sleeping; eating; caring for kids; homemaking; church; outside activities; hobbies; Internet or television, etc…? Now, how much time do you spend alone with God? I don’t mean “going to church and church activities” I mean you, God and your Bible, a journal, some worship music and maybe a classic Christian book? Now take a look at the chart in front of you. How would you like to see it change?
Reflections:
Plan today for a retreat in the near future. Be creative. While all towns may not have an inexpensive retreat center open to the public, with a little ingenuity you can come up with a plan. A hotel room, library conference room, church Sunday School classroom or out of the way coffee shop are all places of possibility. Perhaps you are a mom with young children at home ... barter with a friend and you’ll both come out winners. One day you watch all of your combined children at her house while she uses your place for a 9 to 5 weekday retreat. The next week, swap.
To help you focus and forget your worries for a while, try this: Make a prioritized list of all of the things you’d like to accomplish at home and all of the items needing your attention when you return. Fold up the paper, place it in an envelope and mentally and physically leave it home when you go away to retreat. Tell God that you’d love to forget about all of those tasks and focus on Him for the next period of time. Knowing your never ending “to do” list is all made out and waiting for you when you get home will help to keep your mind riveted on God.
Power Verses:
Matthew 11:28-29 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” (NIV)
Psalm 131:1-2 “My heart is not proud, O LORD, my eyes are not haughty; I do not concern myself with great matters or things too wonderful for me. But I have stilled and quieted my soul; like a weaned child with its mother, like a weaned child is my soul within me. (NIV)
Proverbs 31 Ministries
616-G, Matthews-Mint Hill Road
Matthews, NC 28105
www.Proverbs31.org
Sharing God's Loftiness
Sharing God’s Loftiness
Who is like the Lord our God, who is enthroned on high, who humbles Himself to behold the things that are in heaven and in the earth? He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap, to make them sit with princes, with the princes of His people. ~Psalm 113:5-8 NASB
The psalmist portrays two aspects of God’s nature that seem opposite, yet are beautifully combined in Him. On one side is God’s lofty grandeur. He is enthroned on high. He humbles Himself merely to look down at things in heaven, much more those on earth. On the other side is God’s tender compassion for the poor and the needy. He raises them from the dust – even from the ash heap – to set them with the princes of His people.
Through the prophet Isaiah God unfolds the same paradox, saying, “I live in a high and holy place, but also with him who is contrite and lowly in spirit…..” (Isaiah 57:15). God does not exclude the lowly from His lofty dwelling. On the contrary, they are the ones whom He invites to share it with Him.
Traditionally, many of us have given some understanding of God’s awesome grandeur. This is a common theme of both preachers and poets. But only the Holy Spirit can reveal to us the other side of God’s nature: His tender compassion and condescension.
Contrasting to God’s lofty majesty with our own position in the dust and the ash heap, we have left ourselves totally unworthy of access to God, much less of fellowship with Him. We need to apprehend the divine paradox: It is our very lowliness that qualifies to share God’s loftiness.
Faith's Response:
Out of my lowliness, Lord, I accept the invitation to share Your loftiness.
(Reflections by: Derek Prince)
Who is like the Lord our God, who is enthroned on high, who humbles Himself to behold the things that are in heaven and in the earth? He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap, to make them sit with princes, with the princes of His people. ~Psalm 113:5-8 NASB
The psalmist portrays two aspects of God’s nature that seem opposite, yet are beautifully combined in Him. On one side is God’s lofty grandeur. He is enthroned on high. He humbles Himself merely to look down at things in heaven, much more those on earth. On the other side is God’s tender compassion for the poor and the needy. He raises them from the dust – even from the ash heap – to set them with the princes of His people.
Through the prophet Isaiah God unfolds the same paradox, saying, “I live in a high and holy place, but also with him who is contrite and lowly in spirit…..” (Isaiah 57:15). God does not exclude the lowly from His lofty dwelling. On the contrary, they are the ones whom He invites to share it with Him.
Traditionally, many of us have given some understanding of God’s awesome grandeur. This is a common theme of both preachers and poets. But only the Holy Spirit can reveal to us the other side of God’s nature: His tender compassion and condescension.
Contrasting to God’s lofty majesty with our own position in the dust and the ash heap, we have left ourselves totally unworthy of access to God, much less of fellowship with Him. We need to apprehend the divine paradox: It is our very lowliness that qualifies to share God’s loftiness.
Faith's Response:
Out of my lowliness, Lord, I accept the invitation to share Your loftiness.
(Reflections by: Derek Prince)
Receive your Miracle
Receive Your Miracle
By Gloria Copeland
For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.
Romans 10:10
Do you need a miracle? Then believe it, confess it and receive it!
"Oh Gloria, I just don't know if I can do that."
Yes, you can! You've already done it once. When you made Jesus the Lord of your life, you believed, confessed and received the greatest miracle in the universe, the miracle of a reborn spirit! Every other miracle you receive will come in exactly the same way.
You start by simply believing what God's Word says concerning your area of need, by letting that Word change your heart and mind.
A lot of people try to skip that step. They try to believe for a miracle without spending enough time in the Word to change their heart and mind. They just want to confess it with their mouths and have it instantly appear. But that won't happen. It's what we believe in our hearts and say with our mouths that we receive.
If you don't have enough faith yet to believe for the miracle you need, then you can get it. "Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God" (Rom. 10:17). So start filling the ears of your heart with the Word until faith for your miracle is born.
That's what the woman did who had the issue of blood. She believed in her heart that Jesus would heal her. Then she spoke her faith out loud. Then she acted on that faith--and she received her miracle.
It wasn't Jesus' decision. He didn't suddenly say, "You know, I think I'll work a miracle for that little lady today." No. She made it happen. She took her faith and drew on the power of God. That's why Jesus said, "Daughter, your faith has made you whole" (Matt. 9:22).
You have that same opportunity. God's power is always present everywhere. Your faith will bring it into your life, body or circumstances. So reach out to Jesus. Believe, confess and receive your miracle today.
By Gloria Copeland
For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.
Romans 10:10
Do you need a miracle? Then believe it, confess it and receive it!
"Oh Gloria, I just don't know if I can do that."
Yes, you can! You've already done it once. When you made Jesus the Lord of your life, you believed, confessed and received the greatest miracle in the universe, the miracle of a reborn spirit! Every other miracle you receive will come in exactly the same way.
You start by simply believing what God's Word says concerning your area of need, by letting that Word change your heart and mind.
A lot of people try to skip that step. They try to believe for a miracle without spending enough time in the Word to change their heart and mind. They just want to confess it with their mouths and have it instantly appear. But that won't happen. It's what we believe in our hearts and say with our mouths that we receive.
If you don't have enough faith yet to believe for the miracle you need, then you can get it. "Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God" (Rom. 10:17). So start filling the ears of your heart with the Word until faith for your miracle is born.
That's what the woman did who had the issue of blood. She believed in her heart that Jesus would heal her. Then she spoke her faith out loud. Then she acted on that faith--and she received her miracle.
It wasn't Jesus' decision. He didn't suddenly say, "You know, I think I'll work a miracle for that little lady today." No. She made it happen. She took her faith and drew on the power of God. That's why Jesus said, "Daughter, your faith has made you whole" (Matt. 9:22).
You have that same opportunity. God's power is always present everywhere. Your faith will bring it into your life, body or circumstances. So reach out to Jesus. Believe, confess and receive your miracle today.
The God of the Valley
The God of the Valley
by Os Hillman, October 15, 2007
The man of God came up and told the king of Israel, "This is what the Lord says: 'Because the Arameans think the Lord is a god of the hills and not a god of the valleys, I will deliver this vast army into your hands, and you will know that I am the Lord'." - 1 Kings 20:28
Whenever we stand on the mountain, we are able to see clearly. It is the best vantage point to see what lies ahead. Wouldn't it be great to live on the mountain all the time in order to anticipate what is ahead? God allows us to experience the mountaintop at times. Joseph's first mountaintop experience was as a young man. He had the favor of his father, Jacob. He was given a fine coat and even had a dream about his future. As a young man, Joseph had a sense of destiny about his life. God often gives us a picture of our future so that we will remember this picture when we are being tested to trust Him in the valley. This picture usually does not reveal how God intends to bring about the visions for our life.
However, none of us really derive the character qualities God desires for our lives while we are on the mountain. It is in the valley where the fruit is planted and harvested. It cannot grow on the mountain; it must grow in the valley. God is a God of the mountain, but he is even more a God of the valley. In the valley, it is more difficult to see ahead; the clouds often cover the valley and limit our sight. Joseph was thrust into a deep valley that left him wondering if the God of his father had forsaken him. Jesus hoped that He might be able to avoid the valley that caused Him to sweat blood. There is a valley that each of us must enter, usually unwillingly, in order to experience the God of the valley-and to experience His faithfulness in the valley. Once we have spent time in this valley, we come out with something we would have never gained if we had not entered it. The valley brings much fruit into our lives so that we might plant seeds into the lives of others. God does not waste valley experiences. If we are faithful in the valley, we will enter a new dimension with God that we never thought possible. There is a harvest of wisdom and virtue that can only be grown in the valley.
Has God brought you into the valley? Know that the valley is a place of fruitfulness; it is a place of testing. It is where God brings what you know in your head into your heart. The only value of knowledge is when it becomes part of your heart. Look for God in the valley today.
by Os Hillman, October 15, 2007
The man of God came up and told the king of Israel, "This is what the Lord says: 'Because the Arameans think the Lord is a god of the hills and not a god of the valleys, I will deliver this vast army into your hands, and you will know that I am the Lord'." - 1 Kings 20:28
Whenever we stand on the mountain, we are able to see clearly. It is the best vantage point to see what lies ahead. Wouldn't it be great to live on the mountain all the time in order to anticipate what is ahead? God allows us to experience the mountaintop at times. Joseph's first mountaintop experience was as a young man. He had the favor of his father, Jacob. He was given a fine coat and even had a dream about his future. As a young man, Joseph had a sense of destiny about his life. God often gives us a picture of our future so that we will remember this picture when we are being tested to trust Him in the valley. This picture usually does not reveal how God intends to bring about the visions for our life.
However, none of us really derive the character qualities God desires for our lives while we are on the mountain. It is in the valley where the fruit is planted and harvested. It cannot grow on the mountain; it must grow in the valley. God is a God of the mountain, but he is even more a God of the valley. In the valley, it is more difficult to see ahead; the clouds often cover the valley and limit our sight. Joseph was thrust into a deep valley that left him wondering if the God of his father had forsaken him. Jesus hoped that He might be able to avoid the valley that caused Him to sweat blood. There is a valley that each of us must enter, usually unwillingly, in order to experience the God of the valley-and to experience His faithfulness in the valley. Once we have spent time in this valley, we come out with something we would have never gained if we had not entered it. The valley brings much fruit into our lives so that we might plant seeds into the lives of others. God does not waste valley experiences. If we are faithful in the valley, we will enter a new dimension with God that we never thought possible. There is a harvest of wisdom and virtue that can only be grown in the valley.
Has God brought you into the valley? Know that the valley is a place of fruitfulness; it is a place of testing. It is where God brings what you know in your head into your heart. The only value of knowledge is when it becomes part of your heart. Look for God in the valley today.
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