Key Verse:
Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes, and love respectful greetings in the market places, and chief seats in the synagogues and places of honor at banquets, who devour widows' houses, and for appearance's sake offer long prayers. These will receive greater condemnation.
(Luke 20:46-47)
Central Truth:
Use the resources and talents that you have been given to serve the Lord, not yourself.
WHO DO YOU GLORIFY ?
Thinking of the people that I know, I can see certain gifts that God has given each of them. They may be talented in athletics, communication, teaching, care giving, or even sewing. Each of these talents is unique and special in its own way. We can use our talents to glorify ourselves and boost our egos, or we can use them to glorify God. We have this option.
The scribes, as discussed in this chapter, used their gifts for self-glorification. They used their power and position to better themselves and live the good life. They wanted the respect of others because of who they were and what they had accomplished. Jesus denounces them by saying that they are prideful hypocrites. He warns the disciples to not follow in the footsteps of the scribes.
Too often we, myself included, tend to act like the scribes. I can think of times in my own life when I have used my position or authority to better myself. I wasn't thinking about glorifying God at the time. It was all about me. I am sure we have all done things in order to receive recognition. I am guilty of that as well.
God doesn't intend for us to live like this. He wants us to use our talents and abilities to glorify him. We can do this by thinking of others. How can we help other people by using our God given gifts? It could be monetary donations made to charities or using athletic skills to coach a team. It could be volunteering at a homeless shelter or just listening to a friend talk. It is about thinking of others and not ourselves. Sure, you may get something out of it, but that's not what God intended. He is not as interested in what we do as he is in why we do it. Don't do things in order to gain recognition or make yourself feel better. Don't do it because it is what everyone says you should do. Don't do it because it will put you further ahead in life. Do it out of love for the Lord and your desire to please him. That will give you all the satisfaction you need.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
March 30, 2010, Luke 19
Key Verse
“For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost.”
(Luke 19:10)
Central Truth
Jesus came to save all the lost, regardless of their background or previous way of life. Through faith, the lost can be forgiven and made new.
GUEST OF A SINNER
Until about the age of 10, I attended a church that made me feel that I was unworthy of God’s blessing. In order to be “worthy” I had to go confess my sins to a priest and then serve out a penance. There was a sense of insecurity when communicating with God. I felt I couldn’t communicate directly with God but had to go through the priest. Jesus shows me through the story of Zacchaeus that he wants to be a guest in my home.
The story of Zacchaeus resonates with me because while I am not a crooked tax collector, I am a sinner in need of Jesus. After meeting Jesus, Zacchaeus realized his life needed straightening out. Zacchaeus was willing to give half of his possessions to the poor and to payback everyone he cheated four times what he had taken from them. Jesus does not call all of us to give half of our possessions away to the poor, but what he does want is for us to demonstrate inner change by outward action. Following Jesus in your head or heart alone is not enough. You show your faith by changed behavior.
A person is not saved because of a good heritage or condemned by a bad one. Faith is more important than genealogy. Jesus came to save all the lost, regardless of their background or previous way of life. Through faith, the lost can be forgiven and made new.
Isn’t it comforting to know that Jesus came to this Earth to be a guest of sinners? In Matthew 9, the Pharisees ridiculed Jesus for eating with tax collectors and sinners. Jesus responds, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick . . . . For I have come not to call for the righteous, but sinners.”
Throughout his ministry Jesus was constantly a guest of sinners. Now my eyes are wide open. Jesus wants to seek us out and save us regardless of our past. We are forgiven and made new!
“For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost.”
(Luke 19:10)
Central Truth
Jesus came to save all the lost, regardless of their background or previous way of life. Through faith, the lost can be forgiven and made new.
GUEST OF A SINNER
Until about the age of 10, I attended a church that made me feel that I was unworthy of God’s blessing. In order to be “worthy” I had to go confess my sins to a priest and then serve out a penance. There was a sense of insecurity when communicating with God. I felt I couldn’t communicate directly with God but had to go through the priest. Jesus shows me through the story of Zacchaeus that he wants to be a guest in my home.
The story of Zacchaeus resonates with me because while I am not a crooked tax collector, I am a sinner in need of Jesus. After meeting Jesus, Zacchaeus realized his life needed straightening out. Zacchaeus was willing to give half of his possessions to the poor and to payback everyone he cheated four times what he had taken from them. Jesus does not call all of us to give half of our possessions away to the poor, but what he does want is for us to demonstrate inner change by outward action. Following Jesus in your head or heart alone is not enough. You show your faith by changed behavior.
A person is not saved because of a good heritage or condemned by a bad one. Faith is more important than genealogy. Jesus came to save all the lost, regardless of their background or previous way of life. Through faith, the lost can be forgiven and made new.
Isn’t it comforting to know that Jesus came to this Earth to be a guest of sinners? In Matthew 9, the Pharisees ridiculed Jesus for eating with tax collectors and sinners. Jesus responds, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick . . . . For I have come not to call for the righteous, but sinners.”
Throughout his ministry Jesus was constantly a guest of sinners. Now my eyes are wide open. Jesus wants to seek us out and save us regardless of our past. We are forgiven and made new!
Monday, March 29, 2010
March 29, 2010, Luke 18
Key Verse:
Then Jesus called the children and said to the disciples, "Let the children come to me. Don't stop them! For the Kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I assure you, anyone who doesn't have their kind of faith will never get into the Kingdom of God."
(Luke 18:16-17)
Central Truth:
God calls us to have "childlike" faith.
CHILDLIKE FAITH
This book had so many truths and great parables. I encourage you read all of them. However, the one parable that just stuck me the most was the one about Jesus blessing the children. In this time it was custom for the mother to take their children to a rabbi for a blessing. Here, they gathered around Jesus for the blessing of their children. The disciples tried to send the children away, and Jesus said "NO", "let them come." He then goes on to teach the disciples that children and their childlike faith is what is expected of us.
I look at my girls and my little boy, and everyday they wake up with this overwhelming faith in Greg and I. They have faith that we will feed them and take care of them, and they don't even think about the chance that it might not happen. Every new adventure they take, they take with faith that we are there for them and that we will take care of them. Even when they do get hurt, they know we will help them get better.
Jesus was telling his disciples that we are to be that way. Have faith in our father and know that He is taking care of us. There is no need for worrying because He is there and promises us He will never leave us.(Matthew 6:25-34) Just think if we all could look at Christ with the faith like a child. How much better would our lives be ? Also, think of how our children will be blessed if we introduce Jesus to them in that same childlike attitude of faith and trust. What a difference it would make - in our work, homes and even our church - if we woke up every morning and smiled without one bit of worry, knowing that God our Father was going to carry us through the day!! WOW, think of how proud God would be.
Then Jesus called the children and said to the disciples, "Let the children come to me. Don't stop them! For the Kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I assure you, anyone who doesn't have their kind of faith will never get into the Kingdom of God."
(Luke 18:16-17)
Central Truth:
God calls us to have "childlike" faith.
CHILDLIKE FAITH
This book had so many truths and great parables. I encourage you read all of them. However, the one parable that just stuck me the most was the one about Jesus blessing the children. In this time it was custom for the mother to take their children to a rabbi for a blessing. Here, they gathered around Jesus for the blessing of their children. The disciples tried to send the children away, and Jesus said "NO", "let them come." He then goes on to teach the disciples that children and their childlike faith is what is expected of us.
I look at my girls and my little boy, and everyday they wake up with this overwhelming faith in Greg and I. They have faith that we will feed them and take care of them, and they don't even think about the chance that it might not happen. Every new adventure they take, they take with faith that we are there for them and that we will take care of them. Even when they do get hurt, they know we will help them get better.
Jesus was telling his disciples that we are to be that way. Have faith in our father and know that He is taking care of us. There is no need for worrying because He is there and promises us He will never leave us.(Matthew 6:25-34) Just think if we all could look at Christ with the faith like a child. How much better would our lives be ? Also, think of how our children will be blessed if we introduce Jesus to them in that same childlike attitude of faith and trust. What a difference it would make - in our work, homes and even our church - if we woke up every morning and smiled without one bit of worry, knowing that God our Father was going to carry us through the day!! WOW, think of how proud God would be.
Friday, March 26, 2010
March 26, 2010, Luke 17
Key Verse:
Jesus asked, "Didn't I heal ten men? Where are the other nine?"
(Luke 17:17)
Central Truth:
Giving thanks should come automatically if you walk daily with the Lord.
Jesus healed ten lepers who asked Him to have mercy on them. Only one of them came back to Jesus to thank Him when he saw that he was healed. Just one out of ten, 10%, gave Jesus thanks after a true miracle. Wow!! This verse spoke volumes to me. Am I giving God enough thanks, or am I taking too much for granted?
We all live in a very hectic, self-centered world where we tend to take things for granted. We tend only to "turn up" our conversations with God when something has not gone our way, a tragedy strikes, or we really want something. And typically, these are not prayers of thanksgiving. Often our prayers are filled with requests for ourselves and others, and we forget to thank God for what He has done and to worship Him for who He is. We must not take God for granted. How much time do you take out of your day to be still and spend time with God and give Him thanks and your full attention?
It is extremely difficult to hear the voice of God when you don't take the time to be still and listen. How often have we been in the 90% who did not acknowledge our blessings? Unfortunately, I think I am in that percentage more than I would like to admit. We expect a "thank you" when we do something for someone else, don't we? Don't you take notice when they don't? So, doesn't God, the creator of the universe, deserve more thanks from us?
When is your prayer time with God? At night? In the morning? In the car going to work? At lunch? Waiting in the carpool line? Is it rushed and pressured or comfortable and soothing?
I tell you, several years ago I tried to say my prayers and read my bible at night before I went to bed. But as my family can attest, as soon as my head hit the pillow, I was out like a light. Through trial and error, I have found that my best time to spend time with God is early in the morning when everyone else in the house is asleep. I have my cup of coffee, my beloved bowl of cereal, and my "God time." Like Newsong said in theirMorning Time Talk, I do it early, daily, diligently, and yielding, or I don't get it into my day. When I start my day giving thanks and praise to God, I have a much better outlook, attitude, and outcome to my day. It also makes me much more aware of the amazing works of God: sunsets, sun rises, rainbows, flowers, stars, birds, animals, etc . . ., which draw me closer to Him. These are beautiful examples of His presence in my life.
Please take the time in this hectic world to give daily thanks to God by giving Him some of your time. Rick Warren stated it so perfectly in The Purpose Driven Life. The best way to spell love is T-I-M-E. Let's make a commitment while we are on this journey to make God feel special and loved by giving ourselves freely to Him and spending more time with Him. We need to be careful not to take God for granted and to give Him the credit that He deserves.
Prayer: Lord, I pray that you touch my heart and make me more aware of all of the things that you do for me day in and day out that I take for granted, like allowing me to wake up, giving me a home, clean clothes, food, a job, a car, a loving family, and wonderful friends. Make me more grateful for everything and help me to realize how BLESSED I really am. Thank you Jesus.
Jesus asked, "Didn't I heal ten men? Where are the other nine?"
(Luke 17:17)
Central Truth:
Giving thanks should come automatically if you walk daily with the Lord.
Jesus healed ten lepers who asked Him to have mercy on them. Only one of them came back to Jesus to thank Him when he saw that he was healed. Just one out of ten, 10%, gave Jesus thanks after a true miracle. Wow!! This verse spoke volumes to me. Am I giving God enough thanks, or am I taking too much for granted?
We all live in a very hectic, self-centered world where we tend to take things for granted. We tend only to "turn up" our conversations with God when something has not gone our way, a tragedy strikes, or we really want something. And typically, these are not prayers of thanksgiving. Often our prayers are filled with requests for ourselves and others, and we forget to thank God for what He has done and to worship Him for who He is. We must not take God for granted. How much time do you take out of your day to be still and spend time with God and give Him thanks and your full attention?
It is extremely difficult to hear the voice of God when you don't take the time to be still and listen. How often have we been in the 90% who did not acknowledge our blessings? Unfortunately, I think I am in that percentage more than I would like to admit. We expect a "thank you" when we do something for someone else, don't we? Don't you take notice when they don't? So, doesn't God, the creator of the universe, deserve more thanks from us?
When is your prayer time with God? At night? In the morning? In the car going to work? At lunch? Waiting in the carpool line? Is it rushed and pressured or comfortable and soothing?
I tell you, several years ago I tried to say my prayers and read my bible at night before I went to bed. But as my family can attest, as soon as my head hit the pillow, I was out like a light. Through trial and error, I have found that my best time to spend time with God is early in the morning when everyone else in the house is asleep. I have my cup of coffee, my beloved bowl of cereal, and my "God time." Like Newsong said in theirMorning Time Talk, I do it early, daily, diligently, and yielding, or I don't get it into my day. When I start my day giving thanks and praise to God, I have a much better outlook, attitude, and outcome to my day. It also makes me much more aware of the amazing works of God: sunsets, sun rises, rainbows, flowers, stars, birds, animals, etc . . ., which draw me closer to Him. These are beautiful examples of His presence in my life.
Please take the time in this hectic world to give daily thanks to God by giving Him some of your time. Rick Warren stated it so perfectly in The Purpose Driven Life. The best way to spell love is T-I-M-E. Let's make a commitment while we are on this journey to make God feel special and loved by giving ourselves freely to Him and spending more time with Him. We need to be careful not to take God for granted and to give Him the credit that He deserves.
Prayer: Lord, I pray that you touch my heart and make me more aware of all of the things that you do for me day in and day out that I take for granted, like allowing me to wake up, giving me a home, clean clothes, food, a job, a car, a loving family, and wonderful friends. Make me more grateful for everything and help me to realize how BLESSED I really am. Thank you Jesus.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
March 25 2010, Luke 16
Key Verse:
“Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much.”
(Luke 16:10)
Central Truth:
Use what God has given you wisely; when you get to Heaven it will be gone, and God will want to see your checkbook.
USE IT OR LOSE IT, GUARANTEED!
Read verse 9 again if it did not stick in your head. Did Jesus tell me to use worldly possessions to gain friends? He did. Just like the shrewd manager, we are given certain possessions on this earth to manage while we are here.
The "rule" is simple: Use your possessions to God’s glory. That’s it; end of devotion; have a great day.
OK, maybe I will expand a little: "You cannot take it with you" is a truth that is repeated throughout the Bible and in every day life. In the parable, the master (God) fired the manger for mismanaging what he was in charge of, he was lazy. When the manger realized he was losing all he had, he made some wise decisions. The manager received a percentage of what was collected as his salary. In cutting the amount paid back, he did not steal from the master but cut his own pay. He used his portion of the possessions to gain favor among his peers.
Similarly, the rich man was given everything but could not even share a crumb with Lazarus. We see him literally burning in Hell for eternity. Lazarus who had nothing but was thankful for everything is sitting beside Abraham. (Not sure how that conversation would go . . . "So Abraham, how’s the family?")
God may bless you with millions of dollars, great wisdom, a passion for helping, or simply a kind heart and warm smile. You may be living in a mansion or living under a bridge. Regardless, when we get to heaven, God will ask us what we did with what we were given.
Are you managing it wisely?
There is nothing wrong with being wealthy. God has not asked everyone to take a vow of poverty and give it all away. But, He does command us to use it to his Glory; it's that simple.
On a side note, I encourage you to research verses when they are not clear. I used a commentary on BibleGateway.com to get another prospective on Luke 16. There is a lot of scholarly (boring) information, but there are also some great facts about the time Luke 16 was written (and verses 16-18 which I did not touch on here). Whenever you read a verse that does not make sense, spend a few days of your quiet time researching. It is amazing what you can find.
“Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much.”
(Luke 16:10)
Central Truth:
Use what God has given you wisely; when you get to Heaven it will be gone, and God will want to see your checkbook.
USE IT OR LOSE IT, GUARANTEED!
Read verse 9 again if it did not stick in your head. Did Jesus tell me to use worldly possessions to gain friends? He did. Just like the shrewd manager, we are given certain possessions on this earth to manage while we are here.
The "rule" is simple: Use your possessions to God’s glory. That’s it; end of devotion; have a great day.
OK, maybe I will expand a little: "You cannot take it with you" is a truth that is repeated throughout the Bible and in every day life. In the parable, the master (God) fired the manger for mismanaging what he was in charge of, he was lazy. When the manger realized he was losing all he had, he made some wise decisions. The manager received a percentage of what was collected as his salary. In cutting the amount paid back, he did not steal from the master but cut his own pay. He used his portion of the possessions to gain favor among his peers.
Similarly, the rich man was given everything but could not even share a crumb with Lazarus. We see him literally burning in Hell for eternity. Lazarus who had nothing but was thankful for everything is sitting beside Abraham. (Not sure how that conversation would go . . . "So Abraham, how’s the family?")
God may bless you with millions of dollars, great wisdom, a passion for helping, or simply a kind heart and warm smile. You may be living in a mansion or living under a bridge. Regardless, when we get to heaven, God will ask us what we did with what we were given.
Are you managing it wisely?
There is nothing wrong with being wealthy. God has not asked everyone to take a vow of poverty and give it all away. But, He does command us to use it to his Glory; it's that simple.
On a side note, I encourage you to research verses when they are not clear. I used a commentary on BibleGateway.com to get another prospective on Luke 16. There is a lot of scholarly (boring) information, but there are also some great facts about the time Luke 16 was written (and verses 16-18 which I did not touch on here). Whenever you read a verse that does not make sense, spend a few days of your quiet time researching. It is amazing what you can find.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
March 24, 2010, Luke 15
Key Verse:
“I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent. “
(Luke 15:7)
Central Truth:
Lost people matter to God. Therefore, as Christians we must be willing to step out and use our influence to bring them into a relationship with God.
WHAT WAS LOST WAS FOUND
Luke Chapter 15 begins with Jesus talking to a large crowd. In front of the crowd were tax collectors and sinners. There were also “religious” people there to find fault with Jesus. These religious leaders didn't even want to be in the presence of “unclean" people. They thought that Jesus was wasting His time with them. The “sinners” were there to listen to what Jesus had to say. He was identifying with them. He loved them and accepted them, and they were beginning to care about what God had to say to them.
Jesus tells three different parables to the crowd. All of these parables have a common theme. In the first, there was a shepherd who lost a sheep. In the second, there is a woman who lost a coin. And in the third parable, a father loses his son. These parables teach us that God is interested and yearns for the lost. Jesus was trying to help the religious leaders understand that all people are important to God. The religious leaders truly thought that God didn’t care about sinful people. They thought God only cared about “religious” people.
In my opinion these parables teach us, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that God cares about all lost people. He doesn’t care what kind of house a person lives in, how much money a person makes, or what kinds of clothes a person wears. He doesn’t care if a person smells bad and has rotten teeth. He doesn’t care if they have purple hair, tattoos or body piercings. God doesn’t care if they are fat, thin, big, or small. But, God DOES care whether a person is lost or not.
These parables also teach us that God and the Heavens rejoice when the lost are found. The Bible tells us that when a person accepts Jesus as the Lord of their life that there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God. Wow! It makes you think that there is probably a party in Heaven when someone is saved! Unfortunately some “religious” people have difficulty with this concept. Some people might think that certain actions or lifestyles don’t warrant forgiveness and salvation. However, the Bible tells us that we have a God that offers unconditional love and acceptance. It doesn’t matter WHO we are or WHAT we did before our relationship with Jesus. He will forgive us if we just ask.
God wants us all to be found and to be free. He created each and everyone of us. He knows that we need Him. We need salvation definitely. We also need a personal relationship with Him. As Christ-followers, we need to step out of our comfort zones and even take risks to guide people into a relationship with our Lord. We should feel a burden for the lost. God could even be using you right now in a relationship to influence someone for eternity. Can you imagine all of the parties in Heaven if each one of us reading this devotion would reach out to one lost person today?
“I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent. “
(Luke 15:7)
Central Truth:
Lost people matter to God. Therefore, as Christians we must be willing to step out and use our influence to bring them into a relationship with God.
WHAT WAS LOST WAS FOUND
Luke Chapter 15 begins with Jesus talking to a large crowd. In front of the crowd were tax collectors and sinners. There were also “religious” people there to find fault with Jesus. These religious leaders didn't even want to be in the presence of “unclean" people. They thought that Jesus was wasting His time with them. The “sinners” were there to listen to what Jesus had to say. He was identifying with them. He loved them and accepted them, and they were beginning to care about what God had to say to them.
Jesus tells three different parables to the crowd. All of these parables have a common theme. In the first, there was a shepherd who lost a sheep. In the second, there is a woman who lost a coin. And in the third parable, a father loses his son. These parables teach us that God is interested and yearns for the lost. Jesus was trying to help the religious leaders understand that all people are important to God. The religious leaders truly thought that God didn’t care about sinful people. They thought God only cared about “religious” people.
In my opinion these parables teach us, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that God cares about all lost people. He doesn’t care what kind of house a person lives in, how much money a person makes, or what kinds of clothes a person wears. He doesn’t care if a person smells bad and has rotten teeth. He doesn’t care if they have purple hair, tattoos or body piercings. God doesn’t care if they are fat, thin, big, or small. But, God DOES care whether a person is lost or not.
These parables also teach us that God and the Heavens rejoice when the lost are found. The Bible tells us that when a person accepts Jesus as the Lord of their life that there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God. Wow! It makes you think that there is probably a party in Heaven when someone is saved! Unfortunately some “religious” people have difficulty with this concept. Some people might think that certain actions or lifestyles don’t warrant forgiveness and salvation. However, the Bible tells us that we have a God that offers unconditional love and acceptance. It doesn’t matter WHO we are or WHAT we did before our relationship with Jesus. He will forgive us if we just ask.
God wants us all to be found and to be free. He created each and everyone of us. He knows that we need Him. We need salvation definitely. We also need a personal relationship with Him. As Christ-followers, we need to step out of our comfort zones and even take risks to guide people into a relationship with our Lord. We should feel a burden for the lost. God could even be using you right now in a relationship to influence someone for eternity. Can you imagine all of the parties in Heaven if each one of us reading this devotion would reach out to one lost person today?
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
March 23, 2010, Luke 14
KEY VERSE:
“For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted”
(Luke 14:11)
CENTRAL TRUTH:
Having pride in God will center your focus on what's really important and keep you grounded.
Humility is PRIDE in God
Humble is a word that gets thrown around a lot. As Christians we know we are supposed to be humble (not arrogant, boastful, or prideful), but sometimes we find ourselves in situations where that is really difficult.Exalt is a word that isn't spoken quite as much. When was the last time you used the word exalt in conversation? To "exalt" someone means: "1. To raise in rank, character, or status; 2. To glorify, praise, or honor."
So basically, verse 11 is saying that anyone who tries to raise his rank or status, or bring praise, glory, or honor to himself will soon not have much to boast about. And anyone who behaves in a way that doesn't display arrogance or pride will be rewarded with a raise in rank or status and will be honored and glorified.
Athletically, one of the rules associated with games is that there will be a "winner" and a "loser," and this can be very dangerous when PRIDE comes into play. So how do we combat this? In my first devotion in February, I shared my new redefinition of SUCCESS: "having peace of mind in knowing you did your best to be the best you are capable of becoming." As Christians, it is important that we begin each game (and especially the game of life) with the right perspective: success over winning. Once our attitude/perspective is right, being humble should come a little easier.
That being said, how you define success will influence your ultimate view on winning and losing, and therefore it will also affect your level of PRIDE. It affects your level of PRIDE because you know who gave you your gifts and abilities; you know who made it possible for you to do the things you did – the things that lead you to SUCCESS.
I'm a competitor and “proud” of it, because we compete for Christ. The way we compete should reflect a Christlikeness for us to be PROUD of. I think it's fair to say that God wants us to use the talents and gifts He blessed us with to the best of our abilities. And when we do this, we bring honor and glory to Him. It's worship ... IF we give the credit to God. We try to teach our athletes to take the focus off themselves and place it on God - to give thanks to God ... for the ability He's blessed them with, for the day he's given them to compete, and for the win … or the loss. We praise Him regardless.
So ... We want to define Humility as PRIDE in God. As a coach I know how proud I have been of our baseball teams recently and how proud I was of our single season school record in wins in softball this past fall. BUT, I know where the source of every bit of it is. Without Christ, none of it would have been possible, and with a closer relationship to Christ, our baseball and softball teams at Tattnall are learning how to put Christ first. Whenever we feel a little moment of PRIDE taking the reins of what we are doing, we stop and direct that PRIDE to its rightful owner - God.
“For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted”
(Luke 14:11)
CENTRAL TRUTH:
Having pride in God will center your focus on what's really important and keep you grounded.
Humility is PRIDE in God
Humble is a word that gets thrown around a lot. As Christians we know we are supposed to be humble (not arrogant, boastful, or prideful), but sometimes we find ourselves in situations where that is really difficult.Exalt is a word that isn't spoken quite as much. When was the last time you used the word exalt in conversation? To "exalt" someone means: "1. To raise in rank, character, or status; 2. To glorify, praise, or honor."
So basically, verse 11 is saying that anyone who tries to raise his rank or status, or bring praise, glory, or honor to himself will soon not have much to boast about. And anyone who behaves in a way that doesn't display arrogance or pride will be rewarded with a raise in rank or status and will be honored and glorified.
Athletically, one of the rules associated with games is that there will be a "winner" and a "loser," and this can be very dangerous when PRIDE comes into play. So how do we combat this? In my first devotion in February, I shared my new redefinition of SUCCESS: "having peace of mind in knowing you did your best to be the best you are capable of becoming." As Christians, it is important that we begin each game (and especially the game of life) with the right perspective: success over winning. Once our attitude/perspective is right, being humble should come a little easier.
That being said, how you define success will influence your ultimate view on winning and losing, and therefore it will also affect your level of PRIDE. It affects your level of PRIDE because you know who gave you your gifts and abilities; you know who made it possible for you to do the things you did – the things that lead you to SUCCESS.
I'm a competitor and “proud” of it, because we compete for Christ. The way we compete should reflect a Christlikeness for us to be PROUD of. I think it's fair to say that God wants us to use the talents and gifts He blessed us with to the best of our abilities. And when we do this, we bring honor and glory to Him. It's worship ... IF we give the credit to God. We try to teach our athletes to take the focus off themselves and place it on God - to give thanks to God ... for the ability He's blessed them with, for the day he's given them to compete, and for the win … or the loss. We praise Him regardless.
So ... We want to define Humility as PRIDE in God. As a coach I know how proud I have been of our baseball teams recently and how proud I was of our single season school record in wins in softball this past fall. BUT, I know where the source of every bit of it is. Without Christ, none of it would have been possible, and with a closer relationship to Christ, our baseball and softball teams at Tattnall are learning how to put Christ first. Whenever we feel a little moment of PRIDE taking the reins of what we are doing, we stop and direct that PRIDE to its rightful owner - God.
Monday, March 22, 2010
March 22, 2010, Luke 13
Key Verse:
"Then he touched her, and instantly she could stand straight. How she praised God!”
(Luke 13:13)
Central Truth:
Jesus has done so much for us that our lives, our hearts, and our voices should praise Him. Loudly.
WHAT’S THE POINT?
Do you know how many different translations of the Bible there are? How about just the English versions? Me neither. I am assuming that most of us stick with our trusty old NIV. But as I was studying for this devotional today I went to BibleGateway to discover how a number of other authors translated this particular verse. There were 20 English translations available to read through and a lot of these translations use the same type of language: “she praised Him,” “she glorified God,” “she began glorifying God.” But when I got to the New Living Translation, this is what I saw: “How she praised God!”
Boom.
Did you see it? Did you notice the difference?
She didn’t just “praise God.” She “praised God!” with an exclamation point! No other translation I looked at had an exclamation point at the end. The other 19 translations all ended with a period. Now, I am not a grammatical scholar. I don’t pretend to know or understand all the parts of speech. I don’t know how to correctly use a past participle, for example. But I do know an exclamation point when I see one. It’s used after an exclamation, right? So, just to be safe, I went to the dictionary for a definition of the word “exclamation.” The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language gave the following definition: “exclamation: 1. an abrupt, forceful utterance.”
What this tells me is that she didn’t whisper “praise you Jesus” or mumble praise to God under her breath. She didn’t just sort of say, “Thank you God” in her heart (although that is very important – after all; it is out of the overflow of the heart that the mouth speaks – Luke 6:45). No. Instead, she stood up straight and “PRAISED HIM!!!!” Out loud. With her voice. Her heart was so filled with worship and praise and adoration of our God that she couldn’t hold it inside her.
I think that if we really understood all that Jesus has delivered us from then there would be no way we could stop praising Him. But we so easily forget all that He has done for us. He has healed our diseases and delivered us from our addictions. He woke us up this morning and gives us the breath in our lungs and each beat of our heart. But most of all, Jesus gave us Himself. He came to this speck of dust called the Earth, to die for each of our hearts. That thought alone should have each one of us screaming in praise to the God of the universe!
At some point during your day today, take a couple of minutes to think about how far Jesus has brought you. Think about the healing He has given you or the things He has saved you from. Think about how He reached out and put His hands on you from a blood stained cross and delivered you from the pit. And then stand up and praise Him. With an exclamation point!
"Then he touched her, and instantly she could stand straight. How she praised God!”
(Luke 13:13)
Central Truth:
Jesus has done so much for us that our lives, our hearts, and our voices should praise Him. Loudly.
WHAT’S THE POINT?
Do you know how many different translations of the Bible there are? How about just the English versions? Me neither. I am assuming that most of us stick with our trusty old NIV. But as I was studying for this devotional today I went to BibleGateway to discover how a number of other authors translated this particular verse. There were 20 English translations available to read through and a lot of these translations use the same type of language: “she praised Him,” “she glorified God,” “she began glorifying God.” But when I got to the New Living Translation, this is what I saw: “How she praised God!”
Boom.
Did you see it? Did you notice the difference?
She didn’t just “praise God.” She “praised God!” with an exclamation point! No other translation I looked at had an exclamation point at the end. The other 19 translations all ended with a period. Now, I am not a grammatical scholar. I don’t pretend to know or understand all the parts of speech. I don’t know how to correctly use a past participle, for example. But I do know an exclamation point when I see one. It’s used after an exclamation, right? So, just to be safe, I went to the dictionary for a definition of the word “exclamation.” The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language gave the following definition: “exclamation: 1. an abrupt, forceful utterance.”
What this tells me is that she didn’t whisper “praise you Jesus” or mumble praise to God under her breath. She didn’t just sort of say, “Thank you God” in her heart (although that is very important – after all; it is out of the overflow of the heart that the mouth speaks – Luke 6:45). No. Instead, she stood up straight and “PRAISED HIM!!!!” Out loud. With her voice. Her heart was so filled with worship and praise and adoration of our God that she couldn’t hold it inside her.
I think that if we really understood all that Jesus has delivered us from then there would be no way we could stop praising Him. But we so easily forget all that He has done for us. He has healed our diseases and delivered us from our addictions. He woke us up this morning and gives us the breath in our lungs and each beat of our heart. But most of all, Jesus gave us Himself. He came to this speck of dust called the Earth, to die for each of our hearts. That thought alone should have each one of us screaming in praise to the God of the universe!
At some point during your day today, take a couple of minutes to think about how far Jesus has brought you. Think about the healing He has given you or the things He has saved you from. Think about how He reached out and put His hands on you from a blood stained cross and delivered you from the pit. And then stand up and praise Him. With an exclamation point!
Friday, March 19, 2010
March 19, 2010, Luke 12
Key Verse:
Whatever you have said in the dark will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered behind closed doors will be shouted from the housetops for all to hear!
(Luke 12:3 New Living Translation)
Central Truth:
Every Christian should live every day telling others of our love for our Savior who bore our sins on the cross.
PROFESSING OUR LOVE FOR CHRIST
As Connie and I read and discussed Luke 12, verse 3 really captured our attention and also inspired some interesting conversation and friendly debate among our friends and family. In this verse, we interpreted Jesus’ command to his disciples to mean that they were to profess their faith in Christ and not be a hypocrite by hiding their Christian convictions behind closed doors. Jesus said, beware of hypocrisy and confess Christ (to proclaim to others that Jesus Christ is our Savior and Lord) even in the face of persecution and death because hypocrites will face God’s judgment.
After thinking about what Jesus commanded, our first reaction was, "Wow!" In fact, I had to read again the part, even faced with persecution and death; hypocrites will face God’s judgment; that really gets your attention. It also got us to thinking and discussing: Is it easier being a Christian today in America than it was for the disciples or for those in many countries of the world today where religious persecution reigns? After all, in America, we don’t have to worry about religious persecution and death. Today I can shout out and profess my love of God from most anywhere I choose. I can attend the church of my choice, and I can meet with fellow Christians to worship, discuss our faith, and encourage and promote Christianity within our community. I can do all of this without the threat of being arrested or shot by the police. So why don’t more of us outwardly profess our love and praise for the Lord?
After more discussion with several friends, we all concluded that, whether we face severe persecution or simply social rejection, we all need to think carefully about the following question: Would I confess Christ under pressure or would I be a hypocrite and whisper about my faith behind closed doors or maybe denounce him? Remember that Jesus declares that our eternal destiny hinges on our confession of Him.
We all should thank God every day that we live in a country where religious persecution is something that Christians do not experience firsthand. However, we can’t relax; the religious freedom that we enjoy today could be taken from us. Through out this country there are law suits because someone decided that they did not want to see or hear some type of religious material that they believed violated their rights or some law. Our Founding Fathers guaranteed us the right to freedom of religion. As Christians, it is our duty to ensure that we protect that right by any means necessary. So, do as Jesus commanded, confess Christ from the house tops and do not fear persecution or ridicule. Do not be concerned with what people may think of your Christian convictions, because in the end we know that Jesus has promised us: if we confess him before men, He will confess us before the angels of God.
Whatever you have said in the dark will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered behind closed doors will be shouted from the housetops for all to hear!
(Luke 12:3 New Living Translation)
Central Truth:
Every Christian should live every day telling others of our love for our Savior who bore our sins on the cross.
PROFESSING OUR LOVE FOR CHRIST
As Connie and I read and discussed Luke 12, verse 3 really captured our attention and also inspired some interesting conversation and friendly debate among our friends and family. In this verse, we interpreted Jesus’ command to his disciples to mean that they were to profess their faith in Christ and not be a hypocrite by hiding their Christian convictions behind closed doors. Jesus said, beware of hypocrisy and confess Christ (to proclaim to others that Jesus Christ is our Savior and Lord) even in the face of persecution and death because hypocrites will face God’s judgment.
After thinking about what Jesus commanded, our first reaction was, "Wow!" In fact, I had to read again the part, even faced with persecution and death; hypocrites will face God’s judgment; that really gets your attention. It also got us to thinking and discussing: Is it easier being a Christian today in America than it was for the disciples or for those in many countries of the world today where religious persecution reigns? After all, in America, we don’t have to worry about religious persecution and death. Today I can shout out and profess my love of God from most anywhere I choose. I can attend the church of my choice, and I can meet with fellow Christians to worship, discuss our faith, and encourage and promote Christianity within our community. I can do all of this without the threat of being arrested or shot by the police. So why don’t more of us outwardly profess our love and praise for the Lord?
After more discussion with several friends, we all concluded that, whether we face severe persecution or simply social rejection, we all need to think carefully about the following question: Would I confess Christ under pressure or would I be a hypocrite and whisper about my faith behind closed doors or maybe denounce him? Remember that Jesus declares that our eternal destiny hinges on our confession of Him.
We all should thank God every day that we live in a country where religious persecution is something that Christians do not experience firsthand. However, we can’t relax; the religious freedom that we enjoy today could be taken from us. Through out this country there are law suits because someone decided that they did not want to see or hear some type of religious material that they believed violated their rights or some law. Our Founding Fathers guaranteed us the right to freedom of religion. As Christians, it is our duty to ensure that we protect that right by any means necessary. So, do as Jesus commanded, confess Christ from the house tops and do not fear persecution or ridicule. Do not be concerned with what people may think of your Christian convictions, because in the end we know that Jesus has promised us: if we confess him before men, He will confess us before the angels of God.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
March 18, 2010, Luke 11
Key Verse:
So I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.
(Luke 11:9)
Central Truth:
Pray with shameless persistence.
BE BOLD
Jesus teaches His Disciples how to pray in this chapter. Father, hallowed be your name… He begins by praising God. This gives you perspective. When you pray, you are speaking to "The One True God," the "King of Kings." Hallowed means to be holy; in other words, we are praying that the name of the Lord always be regarded as holy or set apart.
Next, He asks God for daily provisions. He doesn’t ask for every little thing He wants right now. He trusts God to meet His needs daily.
Then Jesus tells us to ask God’s forgiveness for our sins as we are to forgive those who have sinned against us. Because we have been forgiven by God, we should forgive others who we have wronged us in some way. “This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother from your heart.” (Mt 18:35)
“And lead us not into temptation.” Jesus tells us to ask for God’s help in resisting temptation.
But Jesus doesn’t stop his lesson on prayer there. He also tells us to be BOLD. Jesus tells the parable of the man knocking on a friend’s door late at night asking for bread and not giving up even when he is told “Don’t bother me. The door is already locked and my children are with me in bed. I can’t get up and give you anything.” (Luke 11:7) The man does not give up. He keeps knocking and asking with persistence until the friend gets up and gives him the bread. Jesus wants us to know that if we really want something we should keep praying. “[B]ecause of the man’s boldness he will get up and give him as much as he needs.” (Luke 11:8)
My Amplified Bible says it this way, “Ask and keep on asking and it shall be given you; seek and keep on seeking and you shall find; knock and keep on knocking and the door shall be opened to you.”
It’s not that you have to keep reminding God of what you want or because He wants you to ask a few more times before He gives in and lets you have what you want. It’s because through persistence we change our own hearts. I once worked with a lady who drove me crazy. I knew that I should love her, but it was really hard because I just wasn’t feeling it. I prayed everyday for God to help me see her as He saw her. And you know what? It worked. God wasn’t changing her. He was changing me, changing my heart.
So keep praying. Be bold and persistent, and God will change your heart too.
So I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.
(Luke 11:9)
Central Truth:
Pray with shameless persistence.
BE BOLD
Jesus teaches His Disciples how to pray in this chapter. Father, hallowed be your name… He begins by praising God. This gives you perspective. When you pray, you are speaking to "The One True God," the "King of Kings." Hallowed means to be holy; in other words, we are praying that the name of the Lord always be regarded as holy or set apart.
Next, He asks God for daily provisions. He doesn’t ask for every little thing He wants right now. He trusts God to meet His needs daily.
Then Jesus tells us to ask God’s forgiveness for our sins as we are to forgive those who have sinned against us. Because we have been forgiven by God, we should forgive others who we have wronged us in some way. “This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother from your heart.” (Mt 18:35)
“And lead us not into temptation.” Jesus tells us to ask for God’s help in resisting temptation.
But Jesus doesn’t stop his lesson on prayer there. He also tells us to be BOLD. Jesus tells the parable of the man knocking on a friend’s door late at night asking for bread and not giving up even when he is told “Don’t bother me. The door is already locked and my children are with me in bed. I can’t get up and give you anything.” (Luke 11:7) The man does not give up. He keeps knocking and asking with persistence until the friend gets up and gives him the bread. Jesus wants us to know that if we really want something we should keep praying. “[B]ecause of the man’s boldness he will get up and give him as much as he needs.” (Luke 11:8)
My Amplified Bible says it this way, “Ask and keep on asking and it shall be given you; seek and keep on seeking and you shall find; knock and keep on knocking and the door shall be opened to you.”
It’s not that you have to keep reminding God of what you want or because He wants you to ask a few more times before He gives in and lets you have what you want. It’s because through persistence we change our own hearts. I once worked with a lady who drove me crazy. I knew that I should love her, but it was really hard because I just wasn’t feeling it. I prayed everyday for God to help me see her as He saw her. And you know what? It worked. God wasn’t changing her. He was changing me, changing my heart.
So keep praying. Be bold and persistent, and God will change your heart too.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
March 17, 2010, Luke 10
Key Verse:
“After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them two by two ahead of him to every town and place where he was about to go. He told them, "The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.”
(Luke 10:1-2)
Central Truth:
God is calling us to bring in the harvest.
THE HARVEST IS PLENTIFUL
Luke 10:1 tells us that far more than the original twelve had been following Jesus. A group of seventy-two was designated to go to a number of towns to prepare the people for his later visit. Jesus’ instruction to the group begins with, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few.”
Jesus spoke these words over two thousand years ago; yet it is still true today. Come with me, and take a look around:
There is the cashier at Kroger you see each week and sense her hopelessness.
Maybe your child’s best friend and family don’t go to church.
How about your coworkers you know are not saved just from overhearing their conversations.
You may have noticed a new family at church who are first time visitors. Maybe it’s even their first time ever coming to church.
Jesus says, “The harvest is plentiful.” But, He then says something convicting. “The workers are few.”
All around us are opportunities to share the Gospel in our community, our school, our workplace, and even in our church. Unfortunately, we are all guilty of walking around with blinders on and getting caught up in our own little worlds. Our hearts fall out of alignment with the heartbeat of God. He watches with disappointment as we let the God-given opportunities pass us by. We must make a conscious effort to open our eyes and look for the lost and thKey Verse:
“After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them two by two ahead of him to every town and place where he was about to go. He told them, "The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.”
(Luke 10:1-2)
Central Truth:
God is calling us to bring in the harvest.
THE HARVEST IS PLENTIFUL
Luke 10:1 tells us that far more than the original twelve had been following Jesus. A group of seventy-two was designated to go to a number of towns to prepare the people for his later visit. Jesus’ instruction to the group begins with, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few.”
Jesus spoke these words over two thousand years ago; yet it is still true today. Come with me, and take a look around:
There is the cashier at Kroger you see each week and sense her hopelessness.
Maybe your child’s best friend and family don’t go to church.
How about your coworkers you know are not saved just from overhearing their conversations.
You may have noticed a new family at church who are first time visitors. Maybe it’s even their first time ever coming to church.
Jesus says, “The harvest is plentiful.” But, He then says something convicting. “The workers are few.”
All around us are opportunities to share the Gospel in our community, our school, our workplace, and even in our church. Unfortunately, we are all guilty of walking around with blinders on and getting caught up in our own little worlds. Our hearts fall out of alignment with the heartbeat of God. He watches with disappointment as we let the God-given opportunities pass us by. We must make a conscious effort to open our eyes and look for the lost and the hurting. In the book Purpose Driven Life, Rick Warren says, “There are people on this planet that only you will be able to reach, because of where you live and what God has made you to be. If just one person will be in heaven because of you, your life will have made a difference for eternity.” These words of wisdom remind me of when I was in college majoring in Social Work. Whenever my Dad was asked what I wanted to do with my life, he would respond, “She’s wants to save the world!” And if I was there, I would follow-up with, “Just one person at a time!”
Will you join me and let God use you, right where you are, to change the world - even if it’s only one person at a time? Let us step out of our comfort zone, take our blinders off, and open our eyes. Let us take the opportunities to share the Good News in not only who we are but in what we do and what we say. It is our Christian duty to allow God to move our hearts for those around us. John 3:16 tells us, “For God so loved the world that He sent His only Son so that all who believe in Him will not die but have eternal life.”
This is the heart of God, and he needs us, His workers, to bring in the harvest! One person at a time!e hurting. In the book Purpose Driven Life, Rick Warren says, “There are people on this planet that only you will be able to reach, because of where you live and what God has made you to be. If just one person will be in heaven because of you, your life will have made a difference for eternity.” These words of wisdom remind me of when I was in college majoring in Social Work. Whenever my Dad was asked what I wanted to do with my life, he would respond, “She’s wants to save the world!” And if I was there, I would follow-up with, “Just one person at a time!”
Will you join me and let God use you, right where you are, to change the world - even if it’s only one person at a time? Let us step out of our comfort zone, take our blinders off, and open our eyes. Let us take the opportunities to share the Good News in not only who we are but in what we do and what we say. It is our Christian duty to allow God to move our hearts for those around us. John 3:16 tells us, “For God so loved the world that He sent His only Son so that all who believe in Him will not die but have eternal life.”
This is the heart of God, and he needs us, His workers, to bring in the harvest! One person at a time!
“After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them two by two ahead of him to every town and place where he was about to go. He told them, "The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.”
(Luke 10:1-2)
Central Truth:
God is calling us to bring in the harvest.
THE HARVEST IS PLENTIFUL
Luke 10:1 tells us that far more than the original twelve had been following Jesus. A group of seventy-two was designated to go to a number of towns to prepare the people for his later visit. Jesus’ instruction to the group begins with, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few.”
Jesus spoke these words over two thousand years ago; yet it is still true today. Come with me, and take a look around:
There is the cashier at Kroger you see each week and sense her hopelessness.
Maybe your child’s best friend and family don’t go to church.
How about your coworkers you know are not saved just from overhearing their conversations.
You may have noticed a new family at church who are first time visitors. Maybe it’s even their first time ever coming to church.
Jesus says, “The harvest is plentiful.” But, He then says something convicting. “The workers are few.”
All around us are opportunities to share the Gospel in our community, our school, our workplace, and even in our church. Unfortunately, we are all guilty of walking around with blinders on and getting caught up in our own little worlds. Our hearts fall out of alignment with the heartbeat of God. He watches with disappointment as we let the God-given opportunities pass us by. We must make a conscious effort to open our eyes and look for the lost and thKey Verse:
“After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them two by two ahead of him to every town and place where he was about to go. He told them, "The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.”
(Luke 10:1-2)
Central Truth:
God is calling us to bring in the harvest.
THE HARVEST IS PLENTIFUL
Luke 10:1 tells us that far more than the original twelve had been following Jesus. A group of seventy-two was designated to go to a number of towns to prepare the people for his later visit. Jesus’ instruction to the group begins with, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few.”
Jesus spoke these words over two thousand years ago; yet it is still true today. Come with me, and take a look around:
There is the cashier at Kroger you see each week and sense her hopelessness.
Maybe your child’s best friend and family don’t go to church.
How about your coworkers you know are not saved just from overhearing their conversations.
You may have noticed a new family at church who are first time visitors. Maybe it’s even their first time ever coming to church.
Jesus says, “The harvest is plentiful.” But, He then says something convicting. “The workers are few.”
All around us are opportunities to share the Gospel in our community, our school, our workplace, and even in our church. Unfortunately, we are all guilty of walking around with blinders on and getting caught up in our own little worlds. Our hearts fall out of alignment with the heartbeat of God. He watches with disappointment as we let the God-given opportunities pass us by. We must make a conscious effort to open our eyes and look for the lost and the hurting. In the book Purpose Driven Life, Rick Warren says, “There are people on this planet that only you will be able to reach, because of where you live and what God has made you to be. If just one person will be in heaven because of you, your life will have made a difference for eternity.” These words of wisdom remind me of when I was in college majoring in Social Work. Whenever my Dad was asked what I wanted to do with my life, he would respond, “She’s wants to save the world!” And if I was there, I would follow-up with, “Just one person at a time!”
Will you join me and let God use you, right where you are, to change the world - even if it’s only one person at a time? Let us step out of our comfort zone, take our blinders off, and open our eyes. Let us take the opportunities to share the Good News in not only who we are but in what we do and what we say. It is our Christian duty to allow God to move our hearts for those around us. John 3:16 tells us, “For God so loved the world that He sent His only Son so that all who believe in Him will not die but have eternal life.”
This is the heart of God, and he needs us, His workers, to bring in the harvest! One person at a time!e hurting. In the book Purpose Driven Life, Rick Warren says, “There are people on this planet that only you will be able to reach, because of where you live and what God has made you to be. If just one person will be in heaven because of you, your life will have made a difference for eternity.” These words of wisdom remind me of when I was in college majoring in Social Work. Whenever my Dad was asked what I wanted to do with my life, he would respond, “She’s wants to save the world!” And if I was there, I would follow-up with, “Just one person at a time!”
Will you join me and let God use you, right where you are, to change the world - even if it’s only one person at a time? Let us step out of our comfort zone, take our blinders off, and open our eyes. Let us take the opportunities to share the Good News in not only who we are but in what we do and what we say. It is our Christian duty to allow God to move our hearts for those around us. John 3:16 tells us, “For God so loved the world that He sent His only Son so that all who believe in Him will not die but have eternal life.”
This is the heart of God, and he needs us, His workers, to bring in the harvest! One person at a time!
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
March 16, 2010, Luke 9
Key verse:
"But what about you?" he asked. "Who do you say I am?" Peter answered, "The Christ of God."
(Luke 9:20 NIV)
Central Truth:
It doesn’t matter what other people think about Jesus; what is important is that you know Who He is.
WHO'S THAT GUY ?
“Who’s that guy? Where did he come from? Who’s that guy? Where can I get one?” This is one of the lines from a song from the movie Grease 2. Yes, sad I know, but many of you were singing this with me as you read it! The thing is, this is what everybody wants to know about Jesus. Who is he?
Jesus asked Peter who the crowds thought He was. The answers were sketchy: John the Baptist, Elijah, or a prophet. Our culture shares a little of the same view as Peter’s did. He’s labeled as a good man, prophet, lunatic, or even a fairy tale or mythical character. The Bible gives many different names for Jesus such as "I Am” (John 8:58), “Image of God” (2 Cor. 4:4), “Immanuel” (Mt. 1:23), “King of the Jews” (Mt. 27:11), “King of kings (1 Tim 6:15; Rev. 19:16), and Lamb of God (John 1:29) - to name a few.
How did Jesus describe himself? Jesus often refers to himself as "the Son of Man." The title “Son of Man” implies Jesus’ humanity and also connects him with the prophecy in Daniel 7:13-14 announcing the Second Coming of the Christ. In John 14:6, Jesus proclaims “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” This is very exclusive. He didn’t claim to be “a” way or “a” truth or “a” life, but the one and only of all of those. He also claims to be the only way to get the God. Pretty big words for a carpenter
The thing I tend to cling on though, is when Jesus turns to Peter and asks “But what about you? Who do you say I am?” Jesus is personal, relational, and gut-wrenchingly to the point. At the end of days you and I will have to answer this question. Our very lives depend on our answer and what we’ve done with it in our heart. It’s really not enough to just believe and label Jesus as the Son of God according to James2:19 andMatthew 7:22-23. We must really know Him, intimately. How do you get to know someone intimately? You spend time with them, talk to them, listen to them, and enjoy their presence.
How do you honestly answer this question? If Jesus were to look straight into your eyes and into your soul, how would you respond? Is He a “good man” or a children’s Sunday school character? Is He just someone to talk about on Sundays in front of your church friends or community group? How real is He to you? How you answer this question determines how you spend eternity. Who do you say He is?
"But what about you?" he asked. "Who do you say I am?" Peter answered, "The Christ of God."
(Luke 9:20 NIV)
Central Truth:
It doesn’t matter what other people think about Jesus; what is important is that you know Who He is.
WHO'S THAT GUY ?
“Who’s that guy? Where did he come from? Who’s that guy? Where can I get one?” This is one of the lines from a song from the movie Grease 2. Yes, sad I know, but many of you were singing this with me as you read it! The thing is, this is what everybody wants to know about Jesus. Who is he?
Jesus asked Peter who the crowds thought He was. The answers were sketchy: John the Baptist, Elijah, or a prophet. Our culture shares a little of the same view as Peter’s did. He’s labeled as a good man, prophet, lunatic, or even a fairy tale or mythical character. The Bible gives many different names for Jesus such as "I Am” (John 8:58), “Image of God” (2 Cor. 4:4), “Immanuel” (Mt. 1:23), “King of the Jews” (Mt. 27:11), “King of kings (1 Tim 6:15; Rev. 19:16), and Lamb of God (John 1:29) - to name a few.
How did Jesus describe himself? Jesus often refers to himself as "the Son of Man." The title “Son of Man” implies Jesus’ humanity and also connects him with the prophecy in Daniel 7:13-14 announcing the Second Coming of the Christ. In John 14:6, Jesus proclaims “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” This is very exclusive. He didn’t claim to be “a” way or “a” truth or “a” life, but the one and only of all of those. He also claims to be the only way to get the God. Pretty big words for a carpenter
The thing I tend to cling on though, is when Jesus turns to Peter and asks “But what about you? Who do you say I am?” Jesus is personal, relational, and gut-wrenchingly to the point. At the end of days you and I will have to answer this question. Our very lives depend on our answer and what we’ve done with it in our heart. It’s really not enough to just believe and label Jesus as the Son of God according to James
How do you honestly answer this question? If Jesus were to look straight into your eyes and into your soul, how would you respond? Is He a “good man” or a children’s Sunday school character? Is He just someone to talk about on Sundays in front of your church friends or community group? How real is He to you? How you answer this question determines how you spend eternity. Who do you say He is?
Monday, March 15, 2010
March 15, 2010, Luke 8
Key Verse:
"No one lights a lamp and hides it in a jar or puts it under a bed. Instead, he puts it on a stand, so that those who come in can see the light.
(Luke 8:16 NIV)
Central Truth:
What blows out your little light?
THIS LITTLE LIGHT OF MINE
Do you remember singing this Christian Hymn: "This little light of mine. I’m gonna let it shine. Hide it under a bushel, No! I’m gonna let it shine. Don’t let Satan blow it out. I’m gonna let it shine. Let it shine till Jesus comes. I’m gonna let it shine, let it shine, let it shine, let it shine."
Of all the parables told in Luke Chapter 8, nothing brings back such sweet childhood memories than holding up our little finger as if it were a candle and singing our hearts out on Sunday mornings in the church in which we grew up. Shouting “No!” after a bushel and pretending to “blow” out our finger candle as if we were Satan trying to blow out the light of the candle. What is so ironic to us now, is we can’t really remember ever reading Luke 8:16. We just knew that little song, each and every little word, not to mention the hand motions and blowing. We just knew that the “light” was not to be hidden under anything and never allowed to be blown out. The light of our little finger candle was to remain shining brightly. We also knew the light represented the light of Jesus, His goodness, and His love for us. We knew that, as children of God, we were expected to try to be like Jesus by being kind to our friends, loving Jesus, telling others about Jesus, and loving our families.
Why isn’t it that simple for us today as adults? There are many times our little light is simply hidden from our co-workers, bosses, friends, family, and sadly even our children. Sometimes our little light even feels blown out. Our prayer for you today is that you may always strive to let your little light shine, no matter what!
http://www.biblestudycharts.com/CH_This_Little_Light_Of_Mine.html
(music set to This Little Light of Mine…..just in case you need to sing it!)
"No one lights a lamp and hides it in a jar or puts it under a bed. Instead, he puts it on a stand, so that those who come in can see the light.
(Luke 8:16 NIV)
Central Truth:
What blows out your little light?
THIS LITTLE LIGHT OF MINE
Do you remember singing this Christian Hymn: "This little light of mine. I’m gonna let it shine. Hide it under a bushel, No! I’m gonna let it shine. Don’t let Satan blow it out. I’m gonna let it shine. Let it shine till Jesus comes. I’m gonna let it shine, let it shine, let it shine, let it shine."
Of all the parables told in Luke Chapter 8, nothing brings back such sweet childhood memories than holding up our little finger as if it were a candle and singing our hearts out on Sunday mornings in the church in which we grew up. Shouting “No!” after a bushel and pretending to “blow” out our finger candle as if we were Satan trying to blow out the light of the candle. What is so ironic to us now, is we can’t really remember ever reading Luke 8:16. We just knew that little song, each and every little word, not to mention the hand motions and blowing. We just knew that the “light” was not to be hidden under anything and never allowed to be blown out. The light of our little finger candle was to remain shining brightly. We also knew the light represented the light of Jesus, His goodness, and His love for us. We knew that, as children of God, we were expected to try to be like Jesus by being kind to our friends, loving Jesus, telling others about Jesus, and loving our families.
Why isn’t it that simple for us today as adults? There are many times our little light is simply hidden from our co-workers, bosses, friends, family, and sadly even our children. Sometimes our little light even feels blown out. Our prayer for you today is that you may always strive to let your little light shine, no matter what!
http://www.biblestudycharts.com/CH_This_Little_Light_Of_Mine.html
(music set to This Little Light of Mine…..just in case you need to sing it!)
Friday, March 12, 2010
March 12, 2010, Luke 7
Key Verse:
"Then He turned toward the woman and said to Simon the Pharisee, 'Do you see this woman? I came into your house. You did not give me any water for my feet, but she wet my feet with water from her tears and wiped them with her hair'."
(Luke 7:44)
Central Truth:
We can be forgiven.
BIG FAT HAIRY ONES
I lived most of my elementary years in the thrill-a-minute town of Byron. "Lost Vegas" we called it, as my friends and I "matured" into teenagers. It actually was a wonderful town to live in during those years. One of my fondest memories is walking with my friends across the school ball field to Mr. Vinson's drug store after school most days. Like many drug stores of that time, it had a soda shop in one end of the building. We would always sit at the table in the corner, enjoy a snack, and talk about anything....and anyone.
I have no recollection of how this topic came up, but we one day began to categorize sins into three levels: "bad, badder, and baddest." As we named off various sins, we began calling the worst sins "big fat hairy ones." Something like cheating on a test fell into that category. The conversation became hilarious. We hated when it had to end, and we, one-by-one, headed home.
As we mature and unfortunately lose the innocence of our youth, light-hearted conversation of sin can turn into actually committing sins that damage our lives forever. Inevitably, others are also harmed by our actions. The prostitute in Luke 7 had clearly lived a life that left her overcome with regret and grief. This, along with a powerful admiration of Jesus, prompted her to attend the meal at Simon the Pharisee's home. This was no public meal. It was a private party, and she was not on the guest list. While it was not uncommon for uninvited guests to attend such functions, Simon was clearly offended that a prostitute was present. However, to sooth her soul and express her grief over the choices she had made, she absolutely had to spend time with Jesus.
Many of us are burdened and emotionally torn with regret of past sins - infidelity, cruelty, abandonment, business fraud, or whatever the action might have been. By opening our regretful hearts to God, though, we can be forgiven. Jesus forgave the prostitute. He knew she was genuinely remorseful and needed to be freed of the yoke of sin that she was carrying. The same will be done for us if we truly desire forgiveness. God knows every crevice of our heart and soul. Allowing Him to mend our lives will remove the weight of regret that He does not want us to carry. He is ready when we are.
"Then He turned toward the woman and said to Simon the Pharisee, 'Do you see this woman? I came into your house. You did not give me any water for my feet, but she wet my feet with water from her tears and wiped them with her hair'."
(Luke 7:44)
Central Truth:
We can be forgiven.
BIG FAT HAIRY ONES
I lived most of my elementary years in the thrill-a-minute town of Byron. "Lost Vegas" we called it, as my friends and I "matured" into teenagers. It actually was a wonderful town to live in during those years. One of my fondest memories is walking with my friends across the school ball field to Mr. Vinson's drug store after school most days. Like many drug stores of that time, it had a soda shop in one end of the building. We would always sit at the table in the corner, enjoy a snack, and talk about anything....and anyone.
I have no recollection of how this topic came up, but we one day began to categorize sins into three levels: "bad, badder, and baddest." As we named off various sins, we began calling the worst sins "big fat hairy ones." Something like cheating on a test fell into that category. The conversation became hilarious. We hated when it had to end, and we, one-by-one, headed home.
As we mature and unfortunately lose the innocence of our youth, light-hearted conversation of sin can turn into actually committing sins that damage our lives forever. Inevitably, others are also harmed by our actions. The prostitute in Luke 7 had clearly lived a life that left her overcome with regret and grief. This, along with a powerful admiration of Jesus, prompted her to attend the meal at Simon the Pharisee's home. This was no public meal. It was a private party, and she was not on the guest list. While it was not uncommon for uninvited guests to attend such functions, Simon was clearly offended that a prostitute was present. However, to sooth her soul and express her grief over the choices she had made, she absolutely had to spend time with Jesus.
Many of us are burdened and emotionally torn with regret of past sins - infidelity, cruelty, abandonment, business fraud, or whatever the action might have been. By opening our regretful hearts to God, though, we can be forgiven. Jesus forgave the prostitute. He knew she was genuinely remorseful and needed to be freed of the yoke of sin that she was carrying. The same will be done for us if we truly desire forgiveness. God knows every crevice of our heart and soul. Allowing Him to mend our lives will remove the weight of regret that He does not want us to carry. He is ready when we are.
March 11, 2010, Luke 6
Key Verses:
"Why do you call me, 'Lord, Lord,' and do not do what I say? I will show you what he is like who comes to me and hears my words and puts them into practice. He is like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When a flood came, the torrent struck that house but could not shake it, because it was well built. But the one who hears my words and does not put them into practice is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. The moment the torrent struck that house, it collapsed and its destruction was complete."
(Luke 6:46-49).
Central Truth:
Change your life and your future by developing good biblical practices now!
In the month of February, I led a series with the high school kids called "Developing Habits that Will Change Your Life." In this series we looked at great biblical principals that God instructs us to practice. Principals such as: hanging out with God, having an accountability partner, passionately getting into his word, and so on . . . These principals, if the students should grab hold of them now, can serve as an incredible foundation that will help them mature as adults and as believers. A foundation that could very well change the direction of their life!
However, as I'm studying this subject matter, I can't help but think about all of the adults that have missed out on building this incredible foundation in their own life. Too often I've seen many adults who have built their "home" on the shifting sand. They have built their lives based on earthy principals inspired by their culture and their environment. And consequently, they have been in one disastrous drama after another.
BUT.....GUESS WHAT! I've got some incredible news! Our God is a God of GRACE and MERCY who offers second chances. We CAN start over. It's not too late to restart that foundational rebuild and make some great changes in your life. Sure, it may be harder. We may even need to dig a little deeper before we hit solid ground. But, I'm reminded of Philippians 4:13 where Paul says "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength." You see, if you have trusted your life to the Mercy King, nothing is impossible. Change your life now. Rebuild on solid ground. Rebuild with Jesus.
"Why do you call me, 'Lord, Lord,' and do not do what I say? I will show you what he is like who comes to me and hears my words and puts them into practice. He is like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When a flood came, the torrent struck that house but could not shake it, because it was well built. But the one who hears my words and does not put them into practice is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. The moment the torrent struck that house, it collapsed and its destruction was complete."
(Luke 6:46-49).
Central Truth:
Change your life and your future by developing good biblical practices now!
In the month of February, I led a series with the high school kids called "Developing Habits that Will Change Your Life." In this series we looked at great biblical principals that God instructs us to practice. Principals such as: hanging out with God, having an accountability partner, passionately getting into his word, and so on . . . These principals, if the students should grab hold of them now, can serve as an incredible foundation that will help them mature as adults and as believers. A foundation that could very well change the direction of their life!
However, as I'm studying this subject matter, I can't help but think about all of the adults that have missed out on building this incredible foundation in their own life. Too often I've seen many adults who have built their "home" on the shifting sand. They have built their lives based on earthy principals inspired by their culture and their environment. And consequently, they have been in one disastrous drama after another.
BUT.....GUESS WHAT! I've got some incredible news! Our God is a God of GRACE and MERCY who offers second chances. We CAN start over. It's not too late to restart that foundational rebuild and make some great changes in your life. Sure, it may be harder. We may even need to dig a little deeper before we hit solid ground. But, I'm reminded of Philippians 4:13 where Paul says "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength." You see, if you have trusted your life to the Mercy King, nothing is impossible. Change your life now. Rebuild on solid ground. Rebuild with Jesus.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
March 10, 2010, Luke 5
Key Verse:
"Simon answered, "Master, we've worked hard all night and haven't caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets for a catch."
(Luke 5:5 NIV)
Central Truth:
God honors obedience, even when He asks us to do something "crazy".
ARE YOU KIDDING ME?
So Simon (Peter) and his buddies have been fishing all night, with no luck. And they aren't just messing around out on the water - they are professionals. And they aren't catching a thing. And here comes Jesus, a carpenter by trade and a teacher by divine appointment. And he tells Simon to let the nets down (again) for a catch.
At this point, I probably would have suggested to Jesus that I (being all-knowledgeable about fishing since it was, in fact, MY boat), know best, and that there is no sense in casting out our nets, just to heave them up empty once again. But unlike me, Simon (Peter) "gets it." So WHY did he do it again? "Because (Jesus) said so"! No second-guessing, no arguing, no personal agenda. Only because Jesus "said so," they threw out their nets again. And what happened next? Fish! Loads and loads of fish! So much it nearly sank their boat! No wonder Simon (Peter), James and John left everything and followed Him!
Reading this passage made me think about a time that I ignored my own instinct, desire, and yes, common sense, and really obeyed God. It was a situation that, should I have acted on my own, I could have completely messed up my life and several others. Instead of doing what Aimee thought Aimee should do, I determined to follow God - to sell myself out completely to what He had in store for me. It took me down a crazy path. I did and said things I never thought I'd ever do or say. They were completely out of my own nature and against what my flesh would have me to do and say. And yet, the peace that fell on me when I would take those baby steps of obedience overwhelmed me and gave me the assurance that I was surely doing what GOD would have me to do because AIMEE would certainly would have done or said none of that! Why did I do it? Because God "said so," and I wanted, and desperately needed, to follow Him.
And the outcome of my situation, just like with the fishermen, was that God completely and totally blessed me. If I hadn't followed Him, if I hadn't relied on Him for every breath and every baby step, if I had allowed my own plan and my own instinct to take over, I would have missed it. I would have missed the tremendous blessings that followed and still flow to this day as a result of decisions I made during that intense period of life-changing obedience.
Yes, Lord, because you SAY SO, I will follow you. It may sound crazy some times, but I know the blessings that follow obedience. Help me to have the wisdom to know what You would have me to do, and give me the strength and courage to do it.
"Simon answered, "Master, we've worked hard all night and haven't caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets for a catch."
(Luke 5:5 NIV)
Central Truth:
God honors obedience, even when He asks us to do something "crazy".
ARE YOU KIDDING ME?
So Simon (Peter) and his buddies have been fishing all night, with no luck. And they aren't just messing around out on the water - they are professionals. And they aren't catching a thing. And here comes Jesus, a carpenter by trade and a teacher by divine appointment. And he tells Simon to let the nets down (again) for a catch.
At this point, I probably would have suggested to Jesus that I (being all-knowledgeable about fishing since it was, in fact, MY boat), know best, and that there is no sense in casting out our nets, just to heave them up empty once again. But unlike me, Simon (Peter) "gets it." So WHY did he do it again? "Because (Jesus) said so"! No second-guessing, no arguing, no personal agenda. Only because Jesus "said so," they threw out their nets again. And what happened next? Fish! Loads and loads of fish! So much it nearly sank their boat! No wonder Simon (Peter), James and John left everything and followed Him!
Reading this passage made me think about a time that I ignored my own instinct, desire, and yes, common sense, and really obeyed God. It was a situation that, should I have acted on my own, I could have completely messed up my life and several others. Instead of doing what Aimee thought Aimee should do, I determined to follow God - to sell myself out completely to what He had in store for me. It took me down a crazy path. I did and said things I never thought I'd ever do or say. They were completely out of my own nature and against what my flesh would have me to do and say. And yet, the peace that fell on me when I would take those baby steps of obedience overwhelmed me and gave me the assurance that I was surely doing what GOD would have me to do because AIMEE would certainly would have done or said none of that! Why did I do it? Because God "said so," and I wanted, and desperately needed, to follow Him.
And the outcome of my situation, just like with the fishermen, was that God completely and totally blessed me. If I hadn't followed Him, if I hadn't relied on Him for every breath and every baby step, if I had allowed my own plan and my own instinct to take over, I would have missed it. I would have missed the tremendous blessings that followed and still flow to this day as a result of decisions I made during that intense period of life-changing obedience.
Yes, Lord, because you SAY SO, I will follow you. It may sound crazy some times, but I know the blessings that follow obedience. Help me to have the wisdom to know what You would have me to do, and give me the strength and courage to do it.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
March 9, 2010, Luke 4
Key Verses:
Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the desert, where for forty days he was tempted by the devil. He ate nothing during those days, and at the end of them he was hungry. The devil said to him, "If you are the Son of God, tell this stone to become bread." Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Man does not live on bread alone.'"
(Luke 4:1-4)
Central Truth
Jesus had the tools to "win" over Satan; so do we.
CHAMPIONSHIP GAME PREPARATION
Teams & Players:
Satan, Hades College -vs- Jesus of Nazareth, Galilee University
Experience & Stats:
* Satan: Fallen angel, most talented of all angels. Multiple championships. Biggest victory, 'Serpent -vs- Adam & Eve' Tostitos Bowl. Satan in a 5,000 year Senior @ HC.
* Jesus of Nazareth: Son of God. Home Schooler. Good carpenter. Jesus is a true Freshman @ GU.
Game Plans:
Satan:
1.) Temp & beat Jesus at His own game . . . . Use God's word! "If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down from here; for it is written, 'He will give His angels charge concerning you; and on their hands they will rear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.' " (Luke 4:9-11).
2.) I pick the "field" & I make the "rules"! My turf, the wilderness . . . home field advantage! 40 days without "timeouts" or "halftime," plus Jesus is not eating . . . . I will wear Him down. He will break.
3.) Superior Playbook! My "trick" plays have worked for 5,000 years. Jesus will "bite," and get burned!
Jesus of Nazareth:
1.) Spiritual Prep: Be continually filled with the Holy Spirit. "And Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led about by the Spirit in the wilderness." (Luke 4:1) "Jesus returned to Galilee in the power of the Spirit . . . . " (Luke 4:14).
2.)Mental Prep: Know the Playbook! The best Defense is a good Offense. The sword of the Spirit, God's word! "It is written . . . " (Luke 4:4) " It is written . . . ." (Luke 4:8) "It is written . . . . " (Luke 4:12)
3.) Physical Prep: Fast! My body will be kept under submission in order to assist me in the execution of my Coach's (God's) Game Plan! "[F]or 40 days, being tempted by the devil . . . . And He ate nothing during those days . . . ." (Luke 4:2)
OK, Jesus the ultimate competitor and "gamer" approaches this huge competition against Satan with a very specific "Game Plan." His preparation & execution addresses and involves His entire being, Spirit, Mind & Body! He plays to WIN because there is so much at stake!
How well do we know the "Game Plan"? How prepared are we to compete in our own daily" competitions" against Satan, the world, and ourselves . . . ?!!
I love this Chapter, and this story! It resonates with my competitive nature as I read about Jesus going undefeated & unscored on against Satan! I love the fact that Jesus uses nothing more than what God has provided for His victory! We have access to the same "gear," the "playbook," "pads," and "weapons" to defeat Satan and WIN big!
This needs to be our mindset each day we "take the field." Remember, we have on our team: A Hall of Fame Coach - God the Father! An All -American Quarterback - God the Son! An All-SEC, Offensive & Defensive Line - God the Spirit! And the ultimate and time tested "playbook," God's Word!
By the way, Jesus of Nazareth of Galilee defeated Satan of Hades College 40 to "zip" in that Championship Game! Jesus earned "O" & "D" MVP Player of the Game and cinched the Heisman Trophy that year as a true Freshman!
Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win. 1 Corinthians 9:24
"Play Like A Champion Today!"
Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the desert, where for forty days he was tempted by the devil. He ate nothing during those days, and at the end of them he was hungry. The devil said to him, "If you are the Son of God, tell this stone to become bread." Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Man does not live on bread alone.'"
(Luke 4:1-4)
Central Truth
Jesus had the tools to "win" over Satan; so do we.
CHAMPIONSHIP GAME PREPARATION
Teams & Players:
Satan, Hades College -vs- Jesus of Nazareth, Galilee University
Experience & Stats:
* Satan: Fallen angel, most talented of all angels. Multiple championships. Biggest victory, 'Serpent -vs- Adam & Eve' Tostitos Bowl. Satan in a 5,000 year Senior @ HC.
* Jesus of Nazareth: Son of God. Home Schooler. Good carpenter. Jesus is a true Freshman @ GU.
Game Plans:
Satan:
1.) Temp & beat Jesus at His own game . . . . Use God's word! "If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down from here; for it is written, 'He will give His angels charge concerning you; and on their hands they will rear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.' " (Luke 4:9-11).
2.) I pick the "field" & I make the "rules"! My turf, the wilderness . . . home field advantage! 40 days without "timeouts" or "halftime," plus Jesus is not eating . . . . I will wear Him down. He will break.
3.) Superior Playbook! My "trick" plays have worked for 5,000 years. Jesus will "bite," and get burned!
Jesus of Nazareth:
1.) Spiritual Prep: Be continually filled with the Holy Spirit. "And Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led about by the Spirit in the wilderness." (Luke 4:1) "Jesus returned to Galilee in the power of the Spirit . . . . " (Luke 4:14).
2.)Mental Prep: Know the Playbook! The best Defense is a good Offense. The sword of the Spirit, God's word! "It is written . . . " (Luke 4:4) " It is written . . . ." (Luke 4:8) "It is written . . . . " (Luke 4:12)
3.) Physical Prep: Fast! My body will be kept under submission in order to assist me in the execution of my Coach's (God's) Game Plan! "[F]or 40 days, being tempted by the devil . . . . And He ate nothing during those days . . . ." (Luke 4:2)
OK, Jesus the ultimate competitor and "gamer" approaches this huge competition against Satan with a very specific "Game Plan." His preparation & execution addresses and involves His entire being, Spirit, Mind & Body! He plays to WIN because there is so much at stake!
How well do we know the "Game Plan"? How prepared are we to compete in our own daily" competitions" against Satan, the world, and ourselves . . . ?!!
I love this Chapter, and this story! It resonates with my competitive nature as I read about Jesus going undefeated & unscored on against Satan! I love the fact that Jesus uses nothing more than what God has provided for His victory! We have access to the same "gear," the "playbook," "pads," and "weapons" to defeat Satan and WIN big!
This needs to be our mindset each day we "take the field." Remember, we have on our team: A Hall of Fame Coach - God the Father! An All -American Quarterback - God the Son! An All-SEC, Offensive & Defensive Line - God the Spirit! And the ultimate and time tested "playbook," God's Word!
By the way, Jesus of Nazareth of Galilee defeated Satan of Hades College 40 to "zip" in that Championship Game! Jesus earned "O" & "D" MVP Player of the Game and cinched the Heisman Trophy that year as a true Freshman!
Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win. 1 Corinthians 9:24
"Play Like A Champion Today!"
Monday, March 8, 2010
March 8, 2010, Luke 3
Key Verse:
John said to the crowds coming out to be baptized by him, "You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the coming wrath?"
(Luke 3:7)
Central Truth:
Are you getting in damp or saturated?
DO YOU WANT FIRE INSURANCE or LIFE INSURANCE?
Hi. Welcome to Piedmont Insurance. Would you like fire insurance or life insurance today? Have you ever thought about that question? Did Jesus leave the comforts of heaven, live on this earth, perform miracles, endure ridicule, and suffer immensely on a cross just so you won't go to hell? Well, maybe; but what if he did all of that and so much more so we could live a life beyond our wildest expectations? What if we could get up, go to work and actually be happy? What if we could take care of our whiny screaming children all day and have joy? What if we could drive to Wal-Mart and not get angry as we get cut off by some crazy driver! What if... The list goes on and on.
Scripture tells us that John was sent ahead of Jesus to prepare a way for him - much like messengers used to do for Kings. (They would take a trip before their King to make sure everything was in order and ready for his arrival.) In our key verse, John was telling the people to get their lives in order so they could be ready for Jesus. He saw that people were wanting to get "baptized," but they were refusing to turn to Jesus for life and salvation. Being a Christian is more than just getting a little wet. We are called to be in a relationship with Jesus, to produce good fruit (vs. 9), to share with those who don't have (vs. 11), and to do our jobs well and with fairness (vs. 14). All of these things collectively are called "obeying." And when we obey, God blesses!
One of my favorite verses in the Bible is John 10:10. I think it may be safe to say that this verse could be your favorite as well. "The thief comes to steal and kill and destroy;I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." This kind of life is about Jesus' overflowing forgiveness, love, guidance, peace, security, and joy, and yes, it is even FUN!! I don't know about you, but I will take His blessings any day! Life is just way to hard to go about it without a Savior. I want to live a life with passion and excitement. I want to be unleashed to live for Christ. I want to live for a purpose. I don't want to squeak into heaven a little damp. I want to be saturated, soaking wet, with my arms stretched out ready to bow down to my amazing savior and thank him for the blessing of life he provided! And, yes, while I am glad to have fire insurance, it is the LIFE insurance I am eternally grateful for!!
John said to the crowds coming out to be baptized by him, "You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the coming wrath?"
(Luke 3:7)
Central Truth:
Are you getting in damp or saturated?
DO YOU WANT FIRE INSURANCE or LIFE INSURANCE?
Hi. Welcome to Piedmont Insurance. Would you like fire insurance or life insurance today? Have you ever thought about that question? Did Jesus leave the comforts of heaven, live on this earth, perform miracles, endure ridicule, and suffer immensely on a cross just so you won't go to hell? Well, maybe; but what if he did all of that and so much more so we could live a life beyond our wildest expectations? What if we could get up, go to work and actually be happy? What if we could take care of our whiny screaming children all day and have joy? What if we could drive to Wal-Mart and not get angry as we get cut off by some crazy driver! What if... The list goes on and on.
Scripture tells us that John was sent ahead of Jesus to prepare a way for him - much like messengers used to do for Kings. (They would take a trip before their King to make sure everything was in order and ready for his arrival.) In our key verse, John was telling the people to get their lives in order so they could be ready for Jesus. He saw that people were wanting to get "baptized," but they were refusing to turn to Jesus for life and salvation. Being a Christian is more than just getting a little wet. We are called to be in a relationship with Jesus, to produce good fruit (vs. 9), to share with those who don't have (vs. 11), and to do our jobs well and with fairness (vs. 14). All of these things collectively are called "obeying." And when we obey, God blesses!
One of my favorite verses in the Bible is John 10:10. I think it may be safe to say that this verse could be your favorite as well. "The thief comes to steal and kill and destroy;I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." This kind of life is about Jesus' overflowing forgiveness, love, guidance, peace, security, and joy, and yes, it is even FUN!! I don't know about you, but I will take His blessings any day! Life is just way to hard to go about it without a Savior. I want to live a life with passion and excitement. I want to be unleashed to live for Christ. I want to live for a purpose. I don't want to squeak into heaven a little damp. I want to be saturated, soaking wet, with my arms stretched out ready to bow down to my amazing savior and thank him for the blessing of life he provided! And, yes, while I am glad to have fire insurance, it is the LIFE insurance I am eternally grateful for!!
Friday, March 5, 2010
March 5, Luke 2
Key Verses:
All who heard the shepherd’s story were amazed.
(Luke 2:18).
. . . She (Anna, the prophet) talked about the child to everyone who had been waiting expectantly for God to rescue Jerusalem.
(Like 2:38)
Central Truth:
Those that met Jesus, told everyone.
TELL EVERYONE ?
When the Shepherds left the manger scene I imagine that they started to head back to their fields. Along the way they were probably recounting the events they had just witnessed. Their excitement - that they had just seen the Messiah first hand - would have been uncontainable. After all, this is the child that God had promised and that all the Jews had been awaiting for generations. As they passed a corner near the edge of town their boisterous excitement would catch the attention of a bystander, and they’d share what had just happened. It would have been like the local team just won the super bowl, but nobody in town knew yet. The excitement is just infectious. They told all the people they passed.
Later when Joseph went to have Jesus blessed, one of the prophets there went nuts about Jesus and began telling everyone that the Messiah had arrived. She told everyone about Jesus. She told everyone. Do you tell everyone? I don’t.
I truly admire my brother-in-law’s, mother. Adella had the sweetest angelic quality that made you smile when you where around her or anytime you thought about her. When you were having a conversation with her, her normal response to most anything positive was, “praise God!” For instance, “yes, Adella, I have the weekend off. So I can join the family for the birthday party.” “Oh good! Praise Jesus!” would be her reply. She said, “God bless you” when most would say, “bless you.” She often told us of how the Lord was blessing her. She injected Jesus into any conversation with anyone at will. She did not do it in a way that made folks uncomfortable. She was just a sweet soft spoken lady that you could tell loved people and loved Jesus.
Now, I love Jesus, and I’m sure most of our readers do too; but have I told everyone? When considering the number of people I know and those I regularly interact with, do they all know the impact Jesus has made on me? I’m not sure I am an “everyone” kinda guy like Anna. I’m not sure I’m an “all” type guy like the shepherds. Am I a “most” kinda guy? “Some”? “Few”? I pray that God will make me into the kinda guy that shares this news with everyone.
All who heard the shepherd’s story were amazed.
(Luke 2:18).
. . . She (Anna, the prophet) talked about the child to everyone who had been waiting expectantly for God to rescue Jerusalem.
(Like 2:38)
Central Truth:
Those that met Jesus, told everyone.
TELL EVERYONE ?
When the Shepherds left the manger scene I imagine that they started to head back to their fields. Along the way they were probably recounting the events they had just witnessed. Their excitement - that they had just seen the Messiah first hand - would have been uncontainable. After all, this is the child that God had promised and that all the Jews had been awaiting for generations. As they passed a corner near the edge of town their boisterous excitement would catch the attention of a bystander, and they’d share what had just happened. It would have been like the local team just won the super bowl, but nobody in town knew yet. The excitement is just infectious. They told all the people they passed.
Later when Joseph went to have Jesus blessed, one of the prophets there went nuts about Jesus and began telling everyone that the Messiah had arrived. She told everyone about Jesus. She told everyone. Do you tell everyone? I don’t.
I truly admire my brother-in-law’s, mother. Adella had the sweetest angelic quality that made you smile when you where around her or anytime you thought about her. When you were having a conversation with her, her normal response to most anything positive was, “praise God!” For instance, “yes, Adella, I have the weekend off. So I can join the family for the birthday party.” “Oh good! Praise Jesus!” would be her reply. She said, “God bless you” when most would say, “bless you.” She often told us of how the Lord was blessing her. She injected Jesus into any conversation with anyone at will. She did not do it in a way that made folks uncomfortable. She was just a sweet soft spoken lady that you could tell loved people and loved Jesus.
Now, I love Jesus, and I’m sure most of our readers do too; but have I told everyone? When considering the number of people I know and those I regularly interact with, do they all know the impact Jesus has made on me? I’m not sure I am an “everyone” kinda guy like Anna. I’m not sure I’m an “all” type guy like the shepherds. Am I a “most” kinda guy? “Some”? “Few”? I pray that God will make me into the kinda guy that shares this news with everyone.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
March 4, 2010, Luke 1
Key Verse:
“And now you will be silent and not able to speak until the day this happens, because you did not believe my words, which will come true at their proper time.”
(Luke 1:20)
Central Truth:
Faith consistently pushes us to believe in new things we do not yet understand. This means learning to listen for God’s voice, even when we’re having trouble believing the message.
“Can you hear Me now? Can you hear Me now? Can you he…”
I can identify with Zachariah. God slams a good revelation in his face. Boldly. Explosively. A “smacked-in-the-head-by-a-2x4” revelation. This is not one of those cute little coincidences that we often see and sometimes hope might be a “sign” from God. No, God wanted to make Himself clear. So Zachariah got a “sit-down” with God’s official messenger. Yet, ole Zach still stopped to ask: “Is this real? Am I really hearing what I think I’m hearing? Like, really? Seriously? Are you for real? Or are you just pullin’ my leg?” A face-to-face visit with the ANGEL GABRIEL was still not enough for Zachariah to believe without question. (This is so me). So I guess that’s why Gabriel got annoyed. But God had a purpose for taking Zachariah’s voice.
How many times have I known that God wanted to bless me, wanted to show me love, wanted to discipline me (which is just another way He shows His love), wanted to SHOUT to me: “I am your Father and I love you.” And not just shout to me with words, but with actions. Yet still I question. “Are you serious? You want me to be happy? Youwant to give me the desires of my heart? You want to spend time working on me?”
Deep down, I think Zach knew God had the ability to come through. But his questions were rooted in doubt that God WANTED to bless him. After all, it had been so looonnnggg. If God was really going to come through, wouldn’t He have done it already? If God really wanted to bless Zachariah with a child, He could have made it happen, any time, any place. BAM! Just like Emeril says. So why would God wait so long? --- The answer lies in the question: How was God using the waiting to build and shape and sculpt Zachariah in the meantime?
And why did God take his voice for months? Maybe God needed to get his attention. Maybe after years of Zach feeling sorry for himself, feeling beat-down, trampled and neglected, God had to remind Zach that he still had blessings, that he still had good stuff to lose. God always has a purpose for what He does. Sometimes He tells us, sometimes He doesn’t. Sometimes we listen, sometimes we don’t. Can you hear Him now?
“And now you will be silent and not able to speak until the day this happens, because you did not believe my words, which will come true at their proper time.”
(Luke 1:20)
Central Truth:
Faith consistently pushes us to believe in new things we do not yet understand. This means learning to listen for God’s voice, even when we’re having trouble believing the message.
“Can you hear Me now? Can you hear Me now? Can you he…”
I can identify with Zachariah. God slams a good revelation in his face. Boldly. Explosively. A “smacked-in-the-head-by-a-2x4” revelation. This is not one of those cute little coincidences that we often see and sometimes hope might be a “sign” from God. No, God wanted to make Himself clear. So Zachariah got a “sit-down” with God’s official messenger. Yet, ole Zach still stopped to ask: “Is this real? Am I really hearing what I think I’m hearing? Like, really? Seriously? Are you for real? Or are you just pullin’ my leg?” A face-to-face visit with the ANGEL GABRIEL was still not enough for Zachariah to believe without question. (This is so me). So I guess that’s why Gabriel got annoyed. But God had a purpose for taking Zachariah’s voice.
How many times have I known that God wanted to bless me, wanted to show me love, wanted to discipline me (which is just another way He shows His love), wanted to SHOUT to me: “I am your Father and I love you.” And not just shout to me with words, but with actions. Yet still I question. “Are you serious? You want me to be happy? Youwant to give me the desires of my heart? You want to spend time working on me?”
Deep down, I think Zach knew God had the ability to come through. But his questions were rooted in doubt that God WANTED to bless him. After all, it had been so looonnnggg. If God was really going to come through, wouldn’t He have done it already? If God really wanted to bless Zachariah with a child, He could have made it happen, any time, any place. BAM! Just like Emeril says. So why would God wait so long? --- The answer lies in the question: How was God using the waiting to build and shape and sculpt Zachariah in the meantime?
And why did God take his voice for months? Maybe God needed to get his attention. Maybe after years of Zach feeling sorry for himself, feeling beat-down, trampled and neglected, God had to remind Zach that he still had blessings, that he still had good stuff to lose. God always has a purpose for what He does. Sometimes He tells us, sometimes He doesn’t. Sometimes we listen, sometimes we don’t. Can you hear Him now?
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
March 3, Mark 16
Key Verse:
Then the disciples went out and preached everywhere, and the Lord worked with them and confirmed his word by the signs that accompanied it.
(Mark 16:20)
Central Truth:
Becoming one of Jesus’ followers means we receive His power to SERVE!
POWER TO SERVE
Have you ever thought about that when you become a believer, you have the Holy Spirit literally living in you? Most church goers have likely heard that. But have you realized that means you have the POWER of Christ in you? I was struck by that in this chapter. The Jesus that took all of my sin, died, came back to life, and ascended in heaven also left ME the chance to have His Spirit abide in my body.
My Bible notes say, “the world sees power as a way to gain control over others. But Jesus, with all authority and power, chose to serve others.”
Many times I’ve thought how having the Holy Spirit inside me means I’m saved, I’m loved, I’m helped in daily life; but it means also that I’m empowered. So what do I have the “power” to do? Selfishly, I like to think I have the power to be strong, discerning, wise, secure, etc. But we also have the power to SERVE, beyond ways the world can serve. I believe that’s when we are most like Jesus. He was not just a leader, but a servant-leader. Jesus is in heaven now, but we get a chance to partner with Him and serve others - the way He would.
I clearly remember one family holiday far better than any others. I love my family and the turkey and the traditions, but the Thanksgiving that sticks out for me wasn’t about that. My parents decided to take my two teenage brothers and elementary-aged me to the homeless shelter on Thanksgiving Day to serve them their dinner. I remember being afraid and uncomfortable as I put all the green beans on the plates. I remember sitting down with my dad and a man with nothing to his name and realizing, as my dad was so friendly and respectful in his conversation with this man, that he was a person just like I was. He had needs for acceptance, friendship, and love just like I did. It’s a moment I’ll never forget. I can sincerely say that is my favorite Thanksgiving memory. And it had NOTHING to do with me.
Mark 16:20 says, his “disciples went out and preached everywhere, and the Lord WORKED WITH THEM”. What if you and I prayerfully seek out where he wants us to “preach”? (which I think can be more than just words…but actions that show who Christ is to others). He will work with us to accomplish His purpose! Cool! I don’t have to do it all. I reach out, and He will work WITH me. That makes a daunting job seem less daunting. Even if I mess up, I have the God of the universe working with me on the job; so, will His plan be ruined? I don’t think so!
Let’s be different from the world, like we’re supposed to be, and quit looking out for number one. We'll find that the best way to fulfill the life of “number one” is by impacting the lives of others for eternity!
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
March 2, 2010 - Mark 15
Key Verse:
And at the ninth hour Jesus cried out in a loud voice, "Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?" - which means, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?"
(Mark 15:34)
Central Truth:
Sometimes life is scary; but one thing is for sure, God has a plan.
IT'S NOT ABOUT ME
For the last few weeks, it has seemed like everything is going wrong. The car has problems, the kids need new cleats, the check that was supposed to be here didn't come, and the power bill was outrageous. I look around and think, "God, what have I done wrong? I go to church, pay tithes, volunteer? Do I have to sleep at the church every Saturday night or mow the preacher's lawn to get a little relief around here?"
But then, as I read over my chapter this week, it slapped me right between the eyes. It's not all about me. I can try to make it all about me; but God has a plan, and most of the time, his plan and mine aren't going to match up perfectly. It's like trying to fit a square peg in a round hole: without taking a little off of the sides and sacrificing an important part of the square, it probably won't work.
Now, does that mean that God won't let us make our mistakes? Absolutely not. Our way just won't work out like we want it to. Things will occur until He can steer us back on track for His plan, or we will just waller around in our pity until we seek His will and realize what we need to do.
In Mark 15, Pontius Pilate had the opportunity to stand up for a man who had performed miracles of healing and provision, but that wouldn't have been the popular decision. So, Pontius tried to pass his unwillingness to stand up for what was right on others by asking what they wanted to do with Jesus. Pontius was worried about himself, but it wasn't about him. Maybe Pontius ignored the all the flat chariot wheels and tax collection notices. Maybe he stayed his own path and didn't listen to the angels that may have come and tried to prepare him, but I think God knew Pontius's heart well enough to know that he wouldn't stand up for Jesus. I think God gave him a chance, and Pontius blew it.
Now, to put the things that I am whining about into perspective, I look to the time that Jesus asks why God has forsaken Him. Here Jesus is, in the ninth hour of punishment, being brutally beaten, mocked, cursed at, and hung on a cross. He had cuts and bruises all over his body, a crown of thorns on his head, and nails in his hands and feet. All the while he was beaten, his faith remained untouchable, but then there comes this moment before he takes his last breath that he cries out, "My God, my God, why have You forsaken me?" It was at this moment that Jesus bore all of the sins of the world. My sins. Your sins. God can't be a part of that darkness; so my guess is that maybe he turned his head at this point. Jesus had never experienced sin, but now he had a world full of sin on his back. God didn't leave Him. He had to allow it to happen so that I could be forgiven. So that you could be forgiven.
I ask God why my car breaks down. I ask God why life isn't easier. But if life was that easy, I might not be able to reach someone through a devotion. I might not connect with someone on a personal level who thinks that no one else out there has the same problems. I might not invite them to church because they thought that I was unapproachable and wouldn't understand. It may not be easy for us to understand those hardships alone, but, if we seek his will and live everyday to glorify Him, amazing things can happen.
God has a plan.
And at the ninth hour Jesus cried out in a loud voice, "Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?" - which means, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?"
(Mark 15:34)
Central Truth:
Sometimes life is scary; but one thing is for sure, God has a plan.
IT'S NOT ABOUT ME
For the last few weeks, it has seemed like everything is going wrong. The car has problems, the kids need new cleats, the check that was supposed to be here didn't come, and the power bill was outrageous. I look around and think, "God, what have I done wrong? I go to church, pay tithes, volunteer? Do I have to sleep at the church every Saturday night or mow the preacher's lawn to get a little relief around here?"
But then, as I read over my chapter this week, it slapped me right between the eyes. It's not all about me. I can try to make it all about me; but God has a plan, and most of the time, his plan and mine aren't going to match up perfectly. It's like trying to fit a square peg in a round hole: without taking a little off of the sides and sacrificing an important part of the square, it probably won't work.
Now, does that mean that God won't let us make our mistakes? Absolutely not. Our way just won't work out like we want it to. Things will occur until He can steer us back on track for His plan, or we will just waller around in our pity until we seek His will and realize what we need to do.
In Mark 15, Pontius Pilate had the opportunity to stand up for a man who had performed miracles of healing and provision, but that wouldn't have been the popular decision. So, Pontius tried to pass his unwillingness to stand up for what was right on others by asking what they wanted to do with Jesus. Pontius was worried about himself, but it wasn't about him. Maybe Pontius ignored the all the flat chariot wheels and tax collection notices. Maybe he stayed his own path and didn't listen to the angels that may have come and tried to prepare him, but I think God knew Pontius's heart well enough to know that he wouldn't stand up for Jesus. I think God gave him a chance, and Pontius blew it.
Now, to put the things that I am whining about into perspective, I look to the time that Jesus asks why God has forsaken Him. Here Jesus is, in the ninth hour of punishment, being brutally beaten, mocked, cursed at, and hung on a cross. He had cuts and bruises all over his body, a crown of thorns on his head, and nails in his hands and feet. All the while he was beaten, his faith remained untouchable, but then there comes this moment before he takes his last breath that he cries out, "My God, my God, why have You forsaken me?" It was at this moment that Jesus bore all of the sins of the world. My sins. Your sins. God can't be a part of that darkness; so my guess is that maybe he turned his head at this point. Jesus had never experienced sin, but now he had a world full of sin on his back. God didn't leave Him. He had to allow it to happen so that I could be forgiven. So that you could be forgiven.
I ask God why my car breaks down. I ask God why life isn't easier. But if life was that easy, I might not be able to reach someone through a devotion. I might not connect with someone on a personal level who thinks that no one else out there has the same problems. I might not invite them to church because they thought that I was unapproachable and wouldn't understand. It may not be easy for us to understand those hardships alone, but, if we seek his will and live everyday to glorify Him, amazing things can happen.
God has a plan.
Monday, March 1, 2010
March 1, Mark 14
KEY VERSE:
"She did what she could. She poured perfume on my body beforehand to prepare for my burial. I tell you the truth, wherever the Gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her."
(Mark 14:8-9)
CENTRAL TRUTH:
True worship comes from a heart of gratitude and a true recognition of the depth of our need for the love and grace of Jesus Christ.
LAVISH LOVE
"She did what she could." Wow! I love that. In this room full of pious, proper religious leaders, this woman (who would have no status in these times or in this place) enters and goes directly to Jesus, breaks open an expensive bottle of perfume (possibly her life savings' worth), and pours it on Jesus' head. We know from John's account of the same incident that she goes on to pour it on Jesus' feet and wipe His feet with her hair! Can you imagine the scene?
"Some of those present were saying indignantly to one another, 'Why this waste of perfume? It could have been sold for more than a year's wages and the money given to the poor,' And they rebuked her harshly." (Mark 14:4-5) The religious leaders begin to judge her and question her motives for the lavish expression of love to Jesus.
Yet, she doesn't pay them any attention. Her focus is completely on the Messiah, her Savior, her Jesus. She knows what the religious leaders had not yet grasped. This Jesus was her Redeemer. He was the reason that she could be free, could be forgiven, His grace, His love had saved her! From the depth of her gratitude comes this expression of true worship. What a freeing experience!
So, my question would be: Are you like the religious leaders that were so full of their own "goodness," good works, and pride that you've forgotten your absolute need for a Savior? or Are you like the woman who loved lavishly on her Savior, no matter who was watching?
The cool part is Jesus' response where He says that "whenever the Gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told . . . ." (Mark 14:9) He understood her love and devotion. "She did what she could." So, no more excuses about what you can't do. Do what you can. Reach out to that neighbor, write that letter, sing that song loud from the depths of your heart, dance before the Lord, walk to the beat of a different drummer, love that unlovely person, strive for the applause of ONE, not the world, and fall on your face in gratitude for His grace in your life (have you ever done that?). Do what you can, right where you are. Love lavishly and freely.
"She did what she could. She poured perfume on my body beforehand to prepare for my burial. I tell you the truth, wherever the Gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her."
(Mark 14:8-9)
CENTRAL TRUTH:
True worship comes from a heart of gratitude and a true recognition of the depth of our need for the love and grace of Jesus Christ.
LAVISH LOVE
"She did what she could." Wow! I love that. In this room full of pious, proper religious leaders, this woman (who would have no status in these times or in this place) enters and goes directly to Jesus, breaks open an expensive bottle of perfume (possibly her life savings' worth), and pours it on Jesus' head. We know from John's account of the same incident that she goes on to pour it on Jesus' feet and wipe His feet with her hair! Can you imagine the scene?
"Some of those present were saying indignantly to one another, 'Why this waste of perfume? It could have been sold for more than a year's wages and the money given to the poor,' And they rebuked her harshly." (Mark 14:4-5) The religious leaders begin to judge her and question her motives for the lavish expression of love to Jesus.
Yet, she doesn't pay them any attention. Her focus is completely on the Messiah, her Savior, her Jesus. She knows what the religious leaders had not yet grasped. This Jesus was her Redeemer. He was the reason that she could be free, could be forgiven, His grace, His love had saved her! From the depth of her gratitude comes this expression of true worship. What a freeing experience!
So, my question would be: Are you like the religious leaders that were so full of their own "goodness," good works, and pride that you've forgotten your absolute need for a Savior? or Are you like the woman who loved lavishly on her Savior, no matter who was watching?
The cool part is Jesus' response where He says that "whenever the Gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told . . . ." (Mark 14:9) He understood her love and devotion. "She did what she could." So, no more excuses about what you can't do. Do what you can. Reach out to that neighbor, write that letter, sing that song loud from the depths of your heart, dance before the Lord, walk to the beat of a different drummer, love that unlovely person, strive for the applause of ONE, not the world, and fall on your face in gratitude for His grace in your life (have you ever done that?). Do what you can, right where you are. Love lavishly and freely.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)