Reading: Proverbs 4:23, Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.
What is success to you? As a man, what defines you as being successful? A good job?, lots of money in the bank?, power at work?, good health? A beautiful wife?, retirement? It could even be wrapped up in your kid’s success… (Johnny made the All-Star Team again this year).
As a Christian, true success is to be like Christ. This is our goal, plain and simple. What distractions are keeping you from the goal?
Are you guarding your heart? Are you keeping your heart clean? Are you pretending?
Successful people can be awfully good at pretending. Though we look successful, sound successful, talk about success, even dress for success, all the while some of our hearts are a drift. Jesus calls this hypocrisy. Jesus warned his disciples to beware of hypocrisy, pretending to be something that we are not, acting as though a mask is covering our face. Hypocrisy is a terrible sign of trouble in our hearts. It waits for the day f exposure. It requires change. It requires honesty. Tell God today you need Him. Ask Him to help guard your heart.
What are some areas in which you have been struggling to keep your heart clean and guard your heart?
What will you do today to guard your heart and be successful in protecting your wellspring of life, your heart?
REVIEW
How were you able to guard your heart today from those things that you listed earlier?
Based on your perception, how did the steps that you took improve the wellsprings of your life?
Monday, January 31, 2011
Personal Bible Study, Monday, January 31, 2011
Reading: I Peter 1:13-16, 13Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed. 14As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. 15But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; 16for it is written: "Be holy, because I am holy."[a]
Illustration (how can you practically apply this Scripture to yourself?):
Questions for applying this principle to your life:
Answers for applying this principle to your life:
REVIEW
How did you do in applying God’s Word today?
Illustration (how can you practically apply this Scripture to yourself?):
Questions for applying this principle to your life:
Answers for applying this principle to your life:
REVIEW
How did you do in applying God’s Word today?
Saturday, January 29, 2011
CELEBRATION! Sunday, January 30, 2011
Reading: Psalm 108:1-5, 1 My heart is steadfast, O God; I will sing and make music with all my soul. 2 Awake, harp and lyre! I will awaken the dawn. 3 I will praise you, O LORD, among the nations; I will sing of you among the peoples. 4 For great is your love, higher than the heavens; your faithfulness reaches to the skies. 5 Be exalted, O God, above the heavens, and let your glory be over all the earth.
Review the questions and answers from this past week.
What key victories did you experience this past week in your 7 battles?
How can you celebrate and rejoice in the victories of this week which would give glory to God?
Review the questions and answers from this past week.
What key victories did you experience this past week in your 7 battles?
How can you celebrate and rejoice in the victories of this week which would give glory to God?
Friday, January 28, 2011
Through the Roof, Saturday, January 29, 2011
Reading: Mark 2:3-4, 3Some men came, bringing to him a paralytic, carried by four of them. 4Since they could not get him to Jesus because of the crowd, they made an opening in the roof above Jesus and, after digging through it, lowered the mat the paralyzed man was lying on.
That’s the kind of friends that I desire. Men that will, at any cost, bring me closer to Jesus. A pastor, by the name of Norman, tells a story of when he met Henry Ford in 1921. He approached Henry Ford and asked to shake his hand. Mr. Ford extended his hand and asked, “Who is your best friend?” Not waiting for a response, Ford tore off a piece of paper and wrote the following, “Your best friend is the person who brings out the best that is within you.” Ford then said to Norman, “Think about this and always associate with the best men you know.”
When was the last time that you spent more than a month or two in an effort to bring a friend into the family of God?
Who do you consider your best friends?
Do these men bring out the best in you, in your pursuit of God? Why or why not?
Are you the type of friend that brings out the best in those friends that you listed, in their pursuit of God? Why or why not?
If God is speaking to your heart about your friends or about you being a true friend, what can you do today to address this in your life?
Challenge: Bring a friend to the feet of Jesus today.
REVIEW
How were you able to bring a friend to the feet of Jesus today?
What was the result, today, of your evaluation of your friendships?
That’s the kind of friends that I desire. Men that will, at any cost, bring me closer to Jesus. A pastor, by the name of Norman, tells a story of when he met Henry Ford in 1921. He approached Henry Ford and asked to shake his hand. Mr. Ford extended his hand and asked, “Who is your best friend?” Not waiting for a response, Ford tore off a piece of paper and wrote the following, “Your best friend is the person who brings out the best that is within you.” Ford then said to Norman, “Think about this and always associate with the best men you know.”
When was the last time that you spent more than a month or two in an effort to bring a friend into the family of God?
Who do you consider your best friends?
Do these men bring out the best in you, in your pursuit of God? Why or why not?
Are you the type of friend that brings out the best in those friends that you listed, in their pursuit of God? Why or why not?
If God is speaking to your heart about your friends or about you being a true friend, what can you do today to address this in your life?
Challenge: Bring a friend to the feet of Jesus today.
REVIEW
How were you able to bring a friend to the feet of Jesus today?
What was the result, today, of your evaluation of your friendships?
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Words Are Important, Friday, January 28, 2011
Reading: Proverbs 16:23, From a wise mind comes wise speech; the words of the wise are persuasive.
If you pride yourself on being a man after God’s heart, then you must measure your words carefully.
God’s Word tell us that “Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing”, Proverbs 12:18
Today, let’s make a promise: vow to be honest, an encouraging communicator at work, at home and all the places in between. Speak wisely, not impulsively. Use words of kindness and praise, not words of anger.
Remember that you have the power to heal others or injure them, the lift them up or tear them down.
What are some areas that you struggle with your words and the things that you say?
How can you be careful not to be reckless with your words today?
How can you bring healing to someone today with your words?
Challenge: Bring healing to someone today with your words and any wounds that you have caused by your words, make it right today.
REVIEW
How did you make things right from wounds that were caused by your words?
How were you able to bring healing to someone today with your words?
If you pride yourself on being a man after God’s heart, then you must measure your words carefully.
God’s Word tell us that “Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing”, Proverbs 12:18
Today, let’s make a promise: vow to be honest, an encouraging communicator at work, at home and all the places in between. Speak wisely, not impulsively. Use words of kindness and praise, not words of anger.
Remember that you have the power to heal others or injure them, the lift them up or tear them down.
What are some areas that you struggle with your words and the things that you say?
How can you be careful not to be reckless with your words today?
How can you bring healing to someone today with your words?
Challenge: Bring healing to someone today with your words and any wounds that you have caused by your words, make it right today.
REVIEW
How did you make things right from wounds that were caused by your words?
How were you able to bring healing to someone today with your words?
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
The “P” Word, Thursday, January 27, 2011
Reading: Isaiah 40:31, Yet those who wait for the LORD will gain new strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles, they will run and not get tired, they will walk and not become weary.
The “P” word is scary. You don’t want to pray for it because you just might be given an opportunity to use it. I’m talking about patience. Last year my son and I were able to go to an archery range. I was amazed by how difficult it was. I missed the target much more than I hit it. My son, who is so much weaker than I am, was so much more patient, more precise, more accurate… Bull’s Eye!
Patience is more than endurance. For my faith is when I put my life in the hands of God. Like a bow and arrow in the hands of an archer. God is aiming at something that I cannot see and he stretches and strains, and every now and then I say, “I cannot stand it anymore.” But, God does not stop. He goes on stretching until His purpose is in sight. Then, He let’s me fly… Bull’s Eye!
Trust your life in God’s hands today. He has done this many times before. Maintain your relationship with Christ by the patience of faith. Oswald Chambers said, “Though He slay me, yet will I wait for Him.”
What are some areas in your life that you are becoming impatient about and not wanting to wait on the Lord?
Are you able to trust His steady arm and focused gaze as he aims your life?
What steps can you take throughout the day to trust your life in God’s hands?
REVIEW
Were you successful today in surrendering your goals and desires to God?
How were you able to simply focus on your relationship with Christ, instead of concerning yourself with things that is capable of controlling?
The “P” word is scary. You don’t want to pray for it because you just might be given an opportunity to use it. I’m talking about patience. Last year my son and I were able to go to an archery range. I was amazed by how difficult it was. I missed the target much more than I hit it. My son, who is so much weaker than I am, was so much more patient, more precise, more accurate… Bull’s Eye!
Patience is more than endurance. For my faith is when I put my life in the hands of God. Like a bow and arrow in the hands of an archer. God is aiming at something that I cannot see and he stretches and strains, and every now and then I say, “I cannot stand it anymore.” But, God does not stop. He goes on stretching until His purpose is in sight. Then, He let’s me fly… Bull’s Eye!
Trust your life in God’s hands today. He has done this many times before. Maintain your relationship with Christ by the patience of faith. Oswald Chambers said, “Though He slay me, yet will I wait for Him.”
What are some areas in your life that you are becoming impatient about and not wanting to wait on the Lord?
Are you able to trust His steady arm and focused gaze as he aims your life?
What steps can you take throughout the day to trust your life in God’s hands?
REVIEW
Were you successful today in surrendering your goals and desires to God?
How were you able to simply focus on your relationship with Christ, instead of concerning yourself with things that is capable of controlling?
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Where Are You? Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Reading: Proverbs 31:10-11, 10 Who can find a virtuous and capable wife? She is more precious than rubies. 11 Her husband can trust her, and she will greatly enrich his life.
What has happened to the men? Why does our evening end up in front of the TV?
The theme of a strong man coming to rescue a beautiful woman is universal to human nature. It is written in the hearts of all men. Let me tell you a true story…
… but, this lovely maiden is unattainable, the prisoner of an evil power who hold her captive in a dark tower., Only a champion may win her. Only the most valiant, daring and brave warrior has a chance of setting her free. Against all hope he comes. With cunning and raw courage he lays siege to the tower and the sinister one who holds her. Much blood is shed on both sides. Three times the knight is thrown back, but three times he rises again. Eventually, the server is defeated, the dragon falls, the giant is slain. The maiden is his. Through his valor he has won her heart. On horseback they ride off to his cottage by a stream in the woods for a life that gives adventure and romance a new meaning.
Men, this is supposed to be our true story. Did you think that the sorcerer wasn’t real? That you wouldn’t have to fight for her and keep fighting for her? What tower is she in?
Challenge: Let your wife, your fair maiden, know that she is worth fighting for, that she is a treasure.
What are some specific dangers that could endanger your maiden?
What will you do today to protect her and fight for her against these forces?
REVIEW
How did you protect your maiden today?
Did you let her know that she is worth fighting for? How did it go?
What has happened to the men? Why does our evening end up in front of the TV?
The theme of a strong man coming to rescue a beautiful woman is universal to human nature. It is written in the hearts of all men. Let me tell you a true story…
… but, this lovely maiden is unattainable, the prisoner of an evil power who hold her captive in a dark tower., Only a champion may win her. Only the most valiant, daring and brave warrior has a chance of setting her free. Against all hope he comes. With cunning and raw courage he lays siege to the tower and the sinister one who holds her. Much blood is shed on both sides. Three times the knight is thrown back, but three times he rises again. Eventually, the server is defeated, the dragon falls, the giant is slain. The maiden is his. Through his valor he has won her heart. On horseback they ride off to his cottage by a stream in the woods for a life that gives adventure and romance a new meaning.
Men, this is supposed to be our true story. Did you think that the sorcerer wasn’t real? That you wouldn’t have to fight for her and keep fighting for her? What tower is she in?
Challenge: Let your wife, your fair maiden, know that she is worth fighting for, that she is a treasure.
What are some specific dangers that could endanger your maiden?
What will you do today to protect her and fight for her against these forces?
REVIEW
How did you protect your maiden today?
Did you let her know that she is worth fighting for? How did it go?
Monday, January 24, 2011
Honor, Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Reading: Proverbs 3:9-10, 9 Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the first fruits of all your crops; 10 then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.
At times our lives are hectic, busy, demanding and complicated. When life leaves us rushing from place to place, we may fail to pause and give God thanks for all the blessings He has showered on us. We can’t become careless.
So, whom will you choose to honor today? If you honor God and keep Him at the center of your life, everyday will have victory.
“We should be so consumed with God’s glory that we hurt when He is dishonored”, John MacArthur.
Who have you been honoring and how?
How will you alter your areas in which you honor others that take away from the honor that God deserves?
How will you honor God with your wealth today with your best?
How will you involve others in your pursuit of honoring God today?
REVIEW
Whom did you honor today and how?
How did your choice of honor impact your day today?
At times our lives are hectic, busy, demanding and complicated. When life leaves us rushing from place to place, we may fail to pause and give God thanks for all the blessings He has showered on us. We can’t become careless.
So, whom will you choose to honor today? If you honor God and keep Him at the center of your life, everyday will have victory.
“We should be so consumed with God’s glory that we hurt when He is dishonored”, John MacArthur.
Who have you been honoring and how?
How will you alter your areas in which you honor others that take away from the honor that God deserves?
How will you honor God with your wealth today with your best?
How will you involve others in your pursuit of honoring God today?
REVIEW
Whom did you honor today and how?
How did your choice of honor impact your day today?
Sunday, January 23, 2011
What We Need, Monday January 24, 2011
Reading: I Corinthians 10:13, No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.
A man found a cocoon of a butterfly. One day a small opening appeared.
He sat and watched the butterfly for several hours as it struggled to squeeze its body through the tiny hole. Then it stopped, as if it couldn’t go further. So the man decided to help the butterfly. He took a pair of scissors and snipped off the remaining bits of cocoon. The butterfly emerged easily but it had a swollen body and shriveled wings. The man continued to watch it, expecting that any minute the wings would enlarge and expand enough to support the body, Neither happened! In fact the butterfly spent the rest of its life crawling around. It was never able to fly. What the man in his kindness and haste did not understand: The restricting cocoon and the struggle required by the butterfly to get through the opening was a way of forcing the fluid from the body into the wings so that it would be ready for flight once that was achieved.
There are so many times that a struggle or a temptation that comes along and we expect God to quickly run over and cut apart the problem. In all actuality, God stands patiently watching us struggle, not because he is cruel or heartless. On the contrary, he knows that this struggle that you’re going through, if you struggle with it and don’t give up, you will emerge as a beautiful creation of His. When He says that He will not allow you to go through something that you cannot handle, He means it. So, instead of looking to God to take it away, learn to find victory in Him as you struggle through it. He wants to give you the strength to fight through it to make you better, rather than remove it.
What struggles and/or temptations are you going through today?
Instead of looking to have it be removed, how can you grow and learn through these things that you listed and how will you do that today?
REVIEW
How were you able to grow and learn through your struggles today?
How did that impact your outlook on your struggles today?
A man found a cocoon of a butterfly. One day a small opening appeared.
He sat and watched the butterfly for several hours as it struggled to squeeze its body through the tiny hole. Then it stopped, as if it couldn’t go further. So the man decided to help the butterfly. He took a pair of scissors and snipped off the remaining bits of cocoon. The butterfly emerged easily but it had a swollen body and shriveled wings. The man continued to watch it, expecting that any minute the wings would enlarge and expand enough to support the body, Neither happened! In fact the butterfly spent the rest of its life crawling around. It was never able to fly. What the man in his kindness and haste did not understand: The restricting cocoon and the struggle required by the butterfly to get through the opening was a way of forcing the fluid from the body into the wings so that it would be ready for flight once that was achieved.
There are so many times that a struggle or a temptation that comes along and we expect God to quickly run over and cut apart the problem. In all actuality, God stands patiently watching us struggle, not because he is cruel or heartless. On the contrary, he knows that this struggle that you’re going through, if you struggle with it and don’t give up, you will emerge as a beautiful creation of His. When He says that He will not allow you to go through something that you cannot handle, He means it. So, instead of looking to God to take it away, learn to find victory in Him as you struggle through it. He wants to give you the strength to fight through it to make you better, rather than remove it.
What struggles and/or temptations are you going through today?
Instead of looking to have it be removed, how can you grow and learn through these things that you listed and how will you do that today?
REVIEW
How were you able to grow and learn through your struggles today?
How did that impact your outlook on your struggles today?
CELEBRATION! Sunday, January 23, 2011
Reading: Psalm 109:30-31, 30 With my mouth I will greatly extol the LORD; in the great throng I will praise him. 31 For he stands at the right hand of the needy one, to save his life from those who condemn him.
Review the questions and answers from this past week.
What key victories did you experience this past week in your 7 battles?
How can you celebrate and rejoice in the victories of this week which would give glory to God
Review the questions and answers from this past week.
What key victories did you experience this past week in your 7 battles?
How can you celebrate and rejoice in the victories of this week which would give glory to God
Friday, January 21, 2011
Lonely in Leadership, Saturday January 22, 2011
Reading: Psalm 46:7, The LORD Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah
My hero, Abraham Lincoln, once said, “True leaders must be willing to stand alone.” Top leaders always pay a high price for their position. Moses had no friends, nor did Joshua. Paul was alone in prison when he wrote his greatest letters and Abraham Lincoln always faced opposition.
On April 14, 1865, President Lincoln was tragically shot. These 5 items were in his pockets that night.
Handkerchief, embroidered “A. Lincoln”
A boys pocketknife
A spectacles case repaired with string
A purse containing $5, confederate money
Some old and worn newspaper clippings.
The clippings addressed great deeds Lincoln had done. In 1865, millions of critics were fierce against him. Even the greatest of leaders felt alone and needed self assurance.
God’s comfort and assurance happens in the silence of solitude. It is where man’s opinion is overshadowed, where faith replaces fear, where the quest for character deepens and where true leaders earn the right to be respected.
Psalm 46:10-11 states, 10 "Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth." 11 The LORD Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah
Are you feeling alone because you have been called to be a leader or have you not stepped out yet to be a leader because of the fear of being alone?
Is it worth it to you to lead, even if that means that it may be a lonely road?
What can you do today to step out to lead, even though it maybe just you and God alone?
REVIEW
How did you find a way to be a leader today?
Did you feel alone or did you sense God’s presence with you?
How did that impact your perception of leadership?
My hero, Abraham Lincoln, once said, “True leaders must be willing to stand alone.” Top leaders always pay a high price for their position. Moses had no friends, nor did Joshua. Paul was alone in prison when he wrote his greatest letters and Abraham Lincoln always faced opposition.
On April 14, 1865, President Lincoln was tragically shot. These 5 items were in his pockets that night.
Handkerchief, embroidered “A. Lincoln”
A boys pocketknife
A spectacles case repaired with string
A purse containing $5, confederate money
Some old and worn newspaper clippings.
The clippings addressed great deeds Lincoln had done. In 1865, millions of critics were fierce against him. Even the greatest of leaders felt alone and needed self assurance.
God’s comfort and assurance happens in the silence of solitude. It is where man’s opinion is overshadowed, where faith replaces fear, where the quest for character deepens and where true leaders earn the right to be respected.
Psalm 46:10-11 states, 10 "Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth." 11 The LORD Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah
Are you feeling alone because you have been called to be a leader or have you not stepped out yet to be a leader because of the fear of being alone?
Is it worth it to you to lead, even if that means that it may be a lonely road?
What can you do today to step out to lead, even though it maybe just you and God alone?
REVIEW
How did you find a way to be a leader today?
Did you feel alone or did you sense God’s presence with you?
How did that impact your perception of leadership?
Thursday, January 20, 2011
We Know Best? Friday, January 21, 2011
Reading: Isaiah 40:12-15, 12 Who has measured the waters in the hollow of his hand, or with the breadth of his hand marked off the heavens? Who has held the dust of the earth in a basket, or weighed the mountains on the scales and the hills in a balance? 13 Who has understood the mind of the LORD, or instructed him as his counselor? 14 Whom did the LORD consult to enlighten him, and who taught him the right way? Who was it that taught him knowledge or showed him the path of understanding? 15 Surely the nations are like a drop in a bucket; they are regarded as dust on the scales; he weighs the islands as though they were fine dust.
Sometimes we get so enamored with “important” people. Just a few months ago, we watched as people mourned the passing of Michael Jackson, Farrah Fawcett and Ted Kennedy. To see events played back from their lives as someone who was incredibly famous, it’s intriguing to see the passionate fans and followers. Each of them powerful in their own way, each of them multi-millionaires, yet each of them are no longer alive. I wonder, if you knew each one of them individually in their prime well enough to talk to them whenever you wanted to (an incredible musician, a beautiful actress and a powerful congressman)... you could call anytime and they would drop everything to be there for you… how important would you feel? Would you feel like you were “somebody”? Would you feel special and important? I’m also sure that you would consult them often in the areas of their expertise, if you knew that you could any time. Yet, none of them, and not all the celebrities that you could name or famous politicians or wealthy people across the globe could have the description written about them as is described in this passage. Why would be get nervous and be enamored with these people and, yet, we can consult God whenever we want to and we don’t. And, we don’t feel enamored or special?
What are some things in your life, today, about which you need to consult God?
Go to Him today! Let Him be your instructor and your counselor. Just as you would probably want to simply listen and absorb what a famous person might tell you, in there field of expertise, listen very carefully to the all-knowing God.
REVIEW
How did you consult with God today? And, what did you consult Him with?
How did this impact the matters that you’re facing, about which you sought God’s counsel and instruction?
Sometimes we get so enamored with “important” people. Just a few months ago, we watched as people mourned the passing of Michael Jackson, Farrah Fawcett and Ted Kennedy. To see events played back from their lives as someone who was incredibly famous, it’s intriguing to see the passionate fans and followers. Each of them powerful in their own way, each of them multi-millionaires, yet each of them are no longer alive. I wonder, if you knew each one of them individually in their prime well enough to talk to them whenever you wanted to (an incredible musician, a beautiful actress and a powerful congressman)... you could call anytime and they would drop everything to be there for you… how important would you feel? Would you feel like you were “somebody”? Would you feel special and important? I’m also sure that you would consult them often in the areas of their expertise, if you knew that you could any time. Yet, none of them, and not all the celebrities that you could name or famous politicians or wealthy people across the globe could have the description written about them as is described in this passage. Why would be get nervous and be enamored with these people and, yet, we can consult God whenever we want to and we don’t. And, we don’t feel enamored or special?
What are some things in your life, today, about which you need to consult God?
Go to Him today! Let Him be your instructor and your counselor. Just as you would probably want to simply listen and absorb what a famous person might tell you, in there field of expertise, listen very carefully to the all-knowing God.
REVIEW
How did you consult with God today? And, what did you consult Him with?
How did this impact the matters that you’re facing, about which you sought God’s counsel and instruction?
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Shhhhhhh…, Thursday, January 20, 2011
Reading: Ecclesiastes 6:11, The more the words, the less the meaning, and how does that profit anyone?
It’s amazing. After a child is born, the first “coo”, the parents react with delight. Then, it comes to the time that the baby says its first word, all ears perk up, and everyone seems to flood in the room. “Did you hear that? She said her first word.” Grandparents are called and other family members are contact to tell them the incredible news. Then you fast forward about five or six years and you find yourself saying, “Just be quiet for a minute! My goodness! I can’t even think. You just talk, talk, talk, talk, talk.”
We can tend to be the same way. When we are new born Christians, we tend to listen and ask questions. At some point we think we’ve gained the knowledge to talk, talk, talk, talk, talk. Jesus, as always, is our perfect example. If you were to read aloud His sermon on the mount, it would last a whole 15 minutes. 15 minutes! Yet, we could run a year long series on all the powerful points that He said during His brief message. Short but powerful!
Also, just like parents who have transitions from the 1st spoken word to never ending verbage, God tends to feel the same way; as Jesus put it so well in His sermon on the mount, “7And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. 8Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.” Yet, He still wants you to pray to Him about it. It’s the point at which He says, “talk, talk, talk, talk and, yet, you’re not talking to me. You are simply attempting to wax eloquent and just say a bunch of word.” To put it simply, just like we expect out of our children, instead of just talking to hear ourselves talk, think first. Make the words that come out of our mouth mean something.
How well do you listen?
Do you think before you speak, selecting your words carefully to keep the value and importance of what you have to say?
Challenge: Today, anytime you open your mouth to speak, make it valuable.
REVIEW
Did you take time to think before you spoke today, including your prayers?
How were you able to make your words valuable today?
It’s amazing. After a child is born, the first “coo”, the parents react with delight. Then, it comes to the time that the baby says its first word, all ears perk up, and everyone seems to flood in the room. “Did you hear that? She said her first word.” Grandparents are called and other family members are contact to tell them the incredible news. Then you fast forward about five or six years and you find yourself saying, “Just be quiet for a minute! My goodness! I can’t even think. You just talk, talk, talk, talk, talk.”
We can tend to be the same way. When we are new born Christians, we tend to listen and ask questions. At some point we think we’ve gained the knowledge to talk, talk, talk, talk, talk. Jesus, as always, is our perfect example. If you were to read aloud His sermon on the mount, it would last a whole 15 minutes. 15 minutes! Yet, we could run a year long series on all the powerful points that He said during His brief message. Short but powerful!
Also, just like parents who have transitions from the 1st spoken word to never ending verbage, God tends to feel the same way; as Jesus put it so well in His sermon on the mount, “7And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. 8Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.” Yet, He still wants you to pray to Him about it. It’s the point at which He says, “talk, talk, talk, talk and, yet, you’re not talking to me. You are simply attempting to wax eloquent and just say a bunch of word.” To put it simply, just like we expect out of our children, instead of just talking to hear ourselves talk, think first. Make the words that come out of our mouth mean something.
How well do you listen?
Do you think before you speak, selecting your words carefully to keep the value and importance of what you have to say?
Challenge: Today, anytime you open your mouth to speak, make it valuable.
REVIEW
Did you take time to think before you spoke today, including your prayers?
How were you able to make your words valuable today?
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Gain What? Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Reading: Mark 8:36-37, 36What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul? 37Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul?
After renting apartments or houses for many years trying to save enough money to buy a house, the day finally came that we were able to buy our own house. It truly is amazing being able to pick out paint for your own home, pick out carpet designs and colors, knowing that every improvement, every change that you make is for your own home, not for someone else. With owning your own home comes great responsibility, yet great reward. Yet, the intriguing question is, do I really own my own house? I put a down payment on the house but the majority of the funds came from a bank. With the housing crisis that we have witnessed, it has become all too clear that, your name may be on the title, but who really owns it, as banks come in and reposes the house after payment is not able to be made? Men, the intriguing aspect of verse number 36, “to gain the whole world”, is God owns it all. God is the creator, the sustainer and the financier of the entire world. There is nothing here that we truly own. Yet, we go on and continue to kid ourselves in believing that we can gain stuff, because that’s all it is… is stuff! It seems even more absurd, doesn’t it, that a man would lose his soul for something that does not even truly belong to him, but rather is a loaner? Imagine a man who has no money in the bank and everything he owns is borrowed, you would think he has an absolute zero net worth; yet, in fact, the only thing that we can truly own, our true possessions, are the things that affect and impact the soul, which is eternal.
What “stuff” have you been trying to gain?
What have you been giving in exchange for your soul?
What will you do today to surrender your desire to get loaner “stuff” and work to gain eternal possessions that impact the soul?
REVIEW
What “stuff” did you surrender to God today and how did you do so?
How did this impact your perspective on what you worked to gain today?
After renting apartments or houses for many years trying to save enough money to buy a house, the day finally came that we were able to buy our own house. It truly is amazing being able to pick out paint for your own home, pick out carpet designs and colors, knowing that every improvement, every change that you make is for your own home, not for someone else. With owning your own home comes great responsibility, yet great reward. Yet, the intriguing question is, do I really own my own house? I put a down payment on the house but the majority of the funds came from a bank. With the housing crisis that we have witnessed, it has become all too clear that, your name may be on the title, but who really owns it, as banks come in and reposes the house after payment is not able to be made? Men, the intriguing aspect of verse number 36, “to gain the whole world”, is God owns it all. God is the creator, the sustainer and the financier of the entire world. There is nothing here that we truly own. Yet, we go on and continue to kid ourselves in believing that we can gain stuff, because that’s all it is… is stuff! It seems even more absurd, doesn’t it, that a man would lose his soul for something that does not even truly belong to him, but rather is a loaner? Imagine a man who has no money in the bank and everything he owns is borrowed, you would think he has an absolute zero net worth; yet, in fact, the only thing that we can truly own, our true possessions, are the things that affect and impact the soul, which is eternal.
What “stuff” have you been trying to gain?
What have you been giving in exchange for your soul?
What will you do today to surrender your desire to get loaner “stuff” and work to gain eternal possessions that impact the soul?
REVIEW
What “stuff” did you surrender to God today and how did you do so?
How did this impact your perspective on what you worked to gain today?
Monday, January 17, 2011
Imitation, Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Reading: Ephesians 5:1-2, 1Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children 2and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.
Have you ever been to a class at a gym that was lead by an instructor? Even if you haven’t, just picture a large room where every surface of every wall is covered with mirrors, so you can see the instructor that much easier. With all those mirrors, the idea is that you can see every move, from every angle you need to see them, so that you can mimic every single motion your instructor makes. Our walk with Christ would be so much easier if we could actually see him, just as clearly as we see that instructor in the gym class, but I don’t really think life was meant to be that easy. We, as Christians, are instead given an instruction book to follow after, and it doesn’t get any more simple than when the Bible tells us to “Be imitators of God.” Follow His every move so that, when we have “trained” enough, we can go out and be a reflection of Christ to them; a mirror, if you will.
Are you really asking yourself, What Would Jesus Do?
After whose life do you model your own? God’s or man‘s?
How can you be an imitator of God today? (be specific)
At work?
At Home?
In General?
REVIEW
How were you able to imitate God today?
How did this impact your day and the way you lived your life today?
Have you ever been to a class at a gym that was lead by an instructor? Even if you haven’t, just picture a large room where every surface of every wall is covered with mirrors, so you can see the instructor that much easier. With all those mirrors, the idea is that you can see every move, from every angle you need to see them, so that you can mimic every single motion your instructor makes. Our walk with Christ would be so much easier if we could actually see him, just as clearly as we see that instructor in the gym class, but I don’t really think life was meant to be that easy. We, as Christians, are instead given an instruction book to follow after, and it doesn’t get any more simple than when the Bible tells us to “Be imitators of God.” Follow His every move so that, when we have “trained” enough, we can go out and be a reflection of Christ to them; a mirror, if you will.
Are you really asking yourself, What Would Jesus Do?
After whose life do you model your own? God’s or man‘s?
How can you be an imitator of God today? (be specific)
At work?
At Home?
In General?
REVIEW
How were you able to imitate God today?
How did this impact your day and the way you lived your life today?
Imitation, Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Reading: Ephesians 5:1-2, 1Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children 2and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.
Have you ever been to a class at a gym that was lead by an instructor? Even if you haven’t, just picture a large room where every surface of every wall is covered with mirrors, so you can see the instructor that much easier. With all those mirrors, the idea is that you can see every move, from every angle you need to see them, so that you can mimic every single motion your instructor makes. Our walk with Christ would be so much easier if we could actually see him, just as clearly as we see that instructor in the gym class, but I don’t really think life was meant to be that easy. We, as Christians, are instead given an instruction book to follow after, and it doesn’t get any more simple than when the Bible tells us to “Be imitators of God.” Follow His every move so that, when we have “trained” enough, we can go out and be a reflection of Christ to them; a mirror, if you will.
Are you really asking yourself, What Would Jesus Do?
After whose life do you model your own? God’s or man‘s?
How can you be an imitator of God today? (be specific)
At work?
At Home?
In General?
REVIEW
How were you able to imitate God today?
How did this impact your day and the way you lived your life today?
Have you ever been to a class at a gym that was lead by an instructor? Even if you haven’t, just picture a large room where every surface of every wall is covered with mirrors, so you can see the instructor that much easier. With all those mirrors, the idea is that you can see every move, from every angle you need to see them, so that you can mimic every single motion your instructor makes. Our walk with Christ would be so much easier if we could actually see him, just as clearly as we see that instructor in the gym class, but I don’t really think life was meant to be that easy. We, as Christians, are instead given an instruction book to follow after, and it doesn’t get any more simple than when the Bible tells us to “Be imitators of God.” Follow His every move so that, when we have “trained” enough, we can go out and be a reflection of Christ to them; a mirror, if you will.
Are you really asking yourself, What Would Jesus Do?
After whose life do you model your own? God’s or man‘s?
How can you be an imitator of God today? (be specific)
At work?
At Home?
In General?
REVIEW
How were you able to imitate God today?
How did this impact your day and the way you lived your life today?
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Sleeping Through the Storm, Monday, January 17, 2011
Reading: Matthew 8:23-26
Key Verse: Matthew 8:24, Without warning, a furious storm came up on the lake, so that the waves swept over the boat. But Jesus was sleeping.
You can learn a lot about trust on a swing. When I was growing up, I only trusted certain people to push my swing. My mom, dad, or my best friend, “Smitty” could do just about anything they wanted. They could push me high, twist me, or stop me suddenly. I truly loved it because I felt safe with the person doing the pushing.
Now my brother Mike and his friend Danny were a different story. Let one of them push me? Forget it! I never knew what those clowns would do. It’s no fun when your swing is in the hands of someone you don’t trust. You tense up, get white knuckles, and just hang on.
The disciples understood this feeling. In Matthew 8 Jesus’ disciples were on a boat in the middle of a storm so fierce, it frightened even veteran fishermen like Peter. Where was Jesus? He was asleep.
How could Jesus sleep through a monster storm? He found peace because Jesus knew who was in control.
Some might say we’re living through a storm right now. Jobs are scarce. Money is tight. Families are falling apart. Even with the stress of these days, we must not forget who is pushing our swing. Our trust is in the Lord. He won’t let us tumble. Even in the storm, we can find peace.
What storm in your life are you passing through right now?
Today, how can you give up some of your need to control the situation and let God have more control so that you can rest in Him?
REVIEW
How were you able to give up some of your need to control the situation and let God have more control today?
How did this impact your day and your perception of your storms?
Key Verse: Matthew 8:24, Without warning, a furious storm came up on the lake, so that the waves swept over the boat. But Jesus was sleeping.
You can learn a lot about trust on a swing. When I was growing up, I only trusted certain people to push my swing. My mom, dad, or my best friend, “Smitty” could do just about anything they wanted. They could push me high, twist me, or stop me suddenly. I truly loved it because I felt safe with the person doing the pushing.
Now my brother Mike and his friend Danny were a different story. Let one of them push me? Forget it! I never knew what those clowns would do. It’s no fun when your swing is in the hands of someone you don’t trust. You tense up, get white knuckles, and just hang on.
The disciples understood this feeling. In Matthew 8 Jesus’ disciples were on a boat in the middle of a storm so fierce, it frightened even veteran fishermen like Peter. Where was Jesus? He was asleep.
How could Jesus sleep through a monster storm? He found peace because Jesus knew who was in control.
Some might say we’re living through a storm right now. Jobs are scarce. Money is tight. Families are falling apart. Even with the stress of these days, we must not forget who is pushing our swing. Our trust is in the Lord. He won’t let us tumble. Even in the storm, we can find peace.
What storm in your life are you passing through right now?
Today, how can you give up some of your need to control the situation and let God have more control so that you can rest in Him?
REVIEW
How were you able to give up some of your need to control the situation and let God have more control today?
How did this impact your day and your perception of your storms?
Saturday, January 15, 2011
CELEBRATION! Sunday January 16, 2011
Reading: Psalm 111:1-4, 1Praise the LORD. I will extol the LORD with all my heart in the council of the upright and in the assembly. 2 Great are the works of the LORD; they are pondered by all who delight in them. 3 Glorious and majestic are his deeds, and his righteousness endures forever. 4 He has caused his wonders to be remembered; the LORD is gracious and compassionate.
Review the questions and answers from this past week.
What key victories did you experience this past week in your 7 battles?
How can you celebrate and rejoice in the victories of this week which would give glory to God
Review the questions and answers from this past week.
What key victories did you experience this past week in your 7 battles?
How can you celebrate and rejoice in the victories of this week which would give glory to God
Search Me! Saturday January 15, 2011
Reading: Psalm 139:23-24, 23 Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my thoughts. 24 See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
Okay, men, we have reached that time to focus on yourself, again. The devotionals are focusing on doing, performing, thinking and so on; but, today, is a fine tuned look at yourself.
Find place in your house and let your everyone in the house know that you cannot be disturbed. Find something that you can lay on the ground, a hoola-hoop, a towel, a chalk drawn circle, or anything that will help you as you focus on yourself. Don’t just let this be something you do quickly and in passing. Take some quality time and actually schedule it into your day.
While in the circle or on your towel or whatever you have chosen to use, pray what David prayed in Psalm 139, “Search me, O, God, and know my heart; test me and know my thoughts.” Beg God to reveal your sin to you. Beg Him to help you fix everything inside that circle. Don’t let anything in your thoughts or prayers be about other people. Don’t let anyone be your excuse for you sin or anything else that God reveals to you. Focus solely on yourself and the sin, temptation, struggles and repairs that need to occur in you and you alone. Then repent to God for those sins revealed and, then, present yourself to Him.
Write down key points that God revealed to you to keep yourself aware:
REVIEW
How did God speak to you?
What did you do with the things that God revealed to you?
What did you do with those things today
Okay, men, we have reached that time to focus on yourself, again. The devotionals are focusing on doing, performing, thinking and so on; but, today, is a fine tuned look at yourself.
Find place in your house and let your everyone in the house know that you cannot be disturbed. Find something that you can lay on the ground, a hoola-hoop, a towel, a chalk drawn circle, or anything that will help you as you focus on yourself. Don’t just let this be something you do quickly and in passing. Take some quality time and actually schedule it into your day.
While in the circle or on your towel or whatever you have chosen to use, pray what David prayed in Psalm 139, “Search me, O, God, and know my heart; test me and know my thoughts.” Beg God to reveal your sin to you. Beg Him to help you fix everything inside that circle. Don’t let anything in your thoughts or prayers be about other people. Don’t let anyone be your excuse for you sin or anything else that God reveals to you. Focus solely on yourself and the sin, temptation, struggles and repairs that need to occur in you and you alone. Then repent to God for those sins revealed and, then, present yourself to Him.
Write down key points that God revealed to you to keep yourself aware:
REVIEW
How did God speak to you?
What did you do with the things that God revealed to you?
What did you do with those things today
Thursday, January 13, 2011
EXCUSES, Friday, January 14, 2010
Reading: Luke 14:15-24, 15 When one of those who were reclining at the table with Him heard this, he said to Him, "Blessed is everyone who will eat bread in the kingdom of God!" 16 But He said to him, "A man was giving a big dinner, and he invited many; 17 and at the dinner hour he sent his slave to say to those who had been invited, `Come; for everything is ready now.' 18 "But they all alike began to make excuses. The first one said to him, `I have bought a piece of land and I need to go out and look at it; please consider me excused.' 19 "Another one said, `I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I am going to try them out; please consider me excused.' 20 "Another one said, `I have married a wife, and for that reason I cannot come.' 21 "And the slave came back and reported this to his master. Then the head of the household became angry and said to his slave, `Go out at once into the streets and lanes of the city and bring in here the poor and crippled and blind and lame.' 22 "And the slave said, `Master, what you commanded has been done, and still there is room.' 23 "And the master said to the slave, `Go out into the highways and along the hedges, and compel them to come in, so that my house may be filled. 24 `For I tell you, none of those men who were invited shall taste of my dinner.'
Can you imagine rejecting a friend or family member in the way described in this parable? It wouldn’t happen. But we seem to be able to do this to God.
Our earthly lives can become all consuming. We can easily begin to follow paths which lead away from God or just fool ourselves into thinking we’re too busy to spend time learning and growing in God’s love. God’s grace and compassion for us is so great that we can never fully grasp it. However, we can not continuously reject God’s calling to us and expect there not to be a consequence.
Christ is eager for us to accept him as our savior and to develop our relationship with him. He constantly provides us with opportunities to strengthen our faith. We just have to do our part and open our hearts to his presence.
How can you be sure to make time for God throughout your day today?
REVIEW
Can you identify experiences in your life which could have been used to strengthen your relationship with God?
How did you make time for God today?
Can you imagine rejecting a friend or family member in the way described in this parable? It wouldn’t happen. But we seem to be able to do this to God.
Our earthly lives can become all consuming. We can easily begin to follow paths which lead away from God or just fool ourselves into thinking we’re too busy to spend time learning and growing in God’s love. God’s grace and compassion for us is so great that we can never fully grasp it. However, we can not continuously reject God’s calling to us and expect there not to be a consequence.
Christ is eager for us to accept him as our savior and to develop our relationship with him. He constantly provides us with opportunities to strengthen our faith. We just have to do our part and open our hearts to his presence.
How can you be sure to make time for God throughout your day today?
REVIEW
Can you identify experiences in your life which could have been used to strengthen your relationship with God?
How did you make time for God today?
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Don’t Give Up! Thursday, January 13, 2010
Reading: Psalm 37:23-24, If the LORD delights in a man’s way, he makes his steps firm; though he stumble, he will not fall, for the LORD upholds him with his hand.
I was wearing a harness around my waist and a hard hat on my head, The harness was attached to a rope that ran up through a pulley and then down into the hands of my guide (a 17-year-old girl named Melanie) who secured my harness as I climbed a 50-foot wall.
I was doing great until I hit the halfway point. Then I started getting tired. My hands were sore and my legs trembled, but my ego was too large to admit defeat. I kept going, but my pride wasn’t enough. My hands slipped, and I plummeted. But I didn’t fall far. My guide had a firm hold on the rope. Because she was strong and alert, I fell only a few feet. I continued climbing until I conquered the wall. When I got to the top, I gave credit where credit was due. I looked down and thanked the one who kept me from falling.
I wish all my tumbles in life were so simple, so quick, and so harmless. I can’t even tell you how many times I’ve expected to hit the bottom, only to find myself suspended in mid air, secured by a pair of nail-pierced hands. “Don’t give up” he urges, and so I continue.
Now I’m a little wiser, more cautious, but I’m confident. I trust the rope and rely on his harness. And even when I can’t see my guide, I know he is there, he is strong, and he can keep me from falling.
Can you remember a time you felt restricted by God’s holy standards in the Bible? Have you ever thought of them as a safety harness? Following God’s plan is the only way to ensure that He is your strong guide, holding the rope as you climb through this life.
What are some things that you are becoming weary of today and need to let go and trust the Holder of the rope of your life?
REVIEW
Were you able to let go and trust the Holder of the rope of your life today?
How were you able to do so and how did this impact your day?
I was wearing a harness around my waist and a hard hat on my head, The harness was attached to a rope that ran up through a pulley and then down into the hands of my guide (a 17-year-old girl named Melanie) who secured my harness as I climbed a 50-foot wall.
I was doing great until I hit the halfway point. Then I started getting tired. My hands were sore and my legs trembled, but my ego was too large to admit defeat. I kept going, but my pride wasn’t enough. My hands slipped, and I plummeted. But I didn’t fall far. My guide had a firm hold on the rope. Because she was strong and alert, I fell only a few feet. I continued climbing until I conquered the wall. When I got to the top, I gave credit where credit was due. I looked down and thanked the one who kept me from falling.
I wish all my tumbles in life were so simple, so quick, and so harmless. I can’t even tell you how many times I’ve expected to hit the bottom, only to find myself suspended in mid air, secured by a pair of nail-pierced hands. “Don’t give up” he urges, and so I continue.
Now I’m a little wiser, more cautious, but I’m confident. I trust the rope and rely on his harness. And even when I can’t see my guide, I know he is there, he is strong, and he can keep me from falling.
Can you remember a time you felt restricted by God’s holy standards in the Bible? Have you ever thought of them as a safety harness? Following God’s plan is the only way to ensure that He is your strong guide, holding the rope as you climb through this life.
What are some things that you are becoming weary of today and need to let go and trust the Holder of the rope of your life?
REVIEW
Were you able to let go and trust the Holder of the rope of your life today?
How were you able to do so and how did this impact your day?
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Help! Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Reading: Hebrews 13:1 & 2, 1Keep on loving each other as brothers. 2Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it.
Where would a man go for help in his time of great need? A church perhaps? It was in fact IN a church of all places where I witnessed a brother in Christ not being treated in love. During a church choir rehearsal, a strange man stepped into the back of the sanctuary bringing the rehearsal to an abrupt halt. He was shooed by several members for interrupting, upon requesting a ride to a nearby city to get his car. I immediately followed the man outside when he walked out to apologize and offer him his ride, only to find that he was nowhere to be found. He quite literally disappeared. Was he perhaps an angel, or was God trying to get our attention; mine in particular? This passage of scripture could not have been more real to me, than that night.
Do you always try to help those in need?
What are some things that have kept you from doing so?
Can you recall a time that you had an opportunity but were too busy or had something else which kept you from helping the one in need, possibly missing an opportunity to “entertain” God’s angels? Please share.
How can you not only look for someone in need but seek them out today?
Challenge: Whatever that may be, reach out today.
REVIEW
How were you able to reach out to someone in need today?
How were you able to overcome your inhibitions to accomplish this?
Where would a man go for help in his time of great need? A church perhaps? It was in fact IN a church of all places where I witnessed a brother in Christ not being treated in love. During a church choir rehearsal, a strange man stepped into the back of the sanctuary bringing the rehearsal to an abrupt halt. He was shooed by several members for interrupting, upon requesting a ride to a nearby city to get his car. I immediately followed the man outside when he walked out to apologize and offer him his ride, only to find that he was nowhere to be found. He quite literally disappeared. Was he perhaps an angel, or was God trying to get our attention; mine in particular? This passage of scripture could not have been more real to me, than that night.
Do you always try to help those in need?
What are some things that have kept you from doing so?
Can you recall a time that you had an opportunity but were too busy or had something else which kept you from helping the one in need, possibly missing an opportunity to “entertain” God’s angels? Please share.
How can you not only look for someone in need but seek them out today?
Challenge: Whatever that may be, reach out today.
REVIEW
How were you able to reach out to someone in need today?
How were you able to overcome your inhibitions to accomplish this?
Monday, January 10, 2011
He Can Do It Through You, Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Reading: Exodus 3:4, 4:1 & 10, 4 When the LORD saw that he had gone over to look, God called to him from within the bush, "Moses! Moses!" And Moses said, "Here I am." 1 Moses answered, "What if they do not believe me or listen to me and say, 'The LORD did not appear to you'?" 10 Moses said to the LORD, "O Lord, I have never been eloquent, neither in the past nor since you have spoken to your servant. I am slow of speech and tongue."
“O Lord, please send someone else to do it.” Moses spoke those words when God was asking him to perform a miracle, and set his people free. God can use the most unexpected person to work for His good. About 8 years ago, I was in charge of a group of leaders for a youth camp. The base guitar player of the worship band asked our intercessor to pray for him so he could play at the service that night. With all of us together, we prayed as a group for him to get better. Jason, that was the “prayer guy’s” name, motioned for me to come over and lay hands on him and ask God for healing. I quickly reminded him that we brought HIM to do that kind of thing; I’m not the healing type. Out of obedience though, I did as he (or HE) asked and lay hands on him, and he was healed! God used a normal guy like me to work one of His great miracles.
What excuses do you use with God when He asks you to do his will?
Are you obedient when you feel the Holy Spirit tugging at your heart?
How have you placed God in a box of your inhabitations, fears and lack of faith?
What are you willing to do today to set aside your box and let God do His work through you?
REVIEW
How were you obedient to the Holy Spirit’s tugging at your heart today?
What did you do today to remove the box that you had placed God in and allowed Him to work through you?
“O Lord, please send someone else to do it.” Moses spoke those words when God was asking him to perform a miracle, and set his people free. God can use the most unexpected person to work for His good. About 8 years ago, I was in charge of a group of leaders for a youth camp. The base guitar player of the worship band asked our intercessor to pray for him so he could play at the service that night. With all of us together, we prayed as a group for him to get better. Jason, that was the “prayer guy’s” name, motioned for me to come over and lay hands on him and ask God for healing. I quickly reminded him that we brought HIM to do that kind of thing; I’m not the healing type. Out of obedience though, I did as he (or HE) asked and lay hands on him, and he was healed! God used a normal guy like me to work one of His great miracles.
What excuses do you use with God when He asks you to do his will?
Are you obedient when you feel the Holy Spirit tugging at your heart?
How have you placed God in a box of your inhabitations, fears and lack of faith?
What are you willing to do today to set aside your box and let God do His work through you?
REVIEW
How were you obedient to the Holy Spirit’s tugging at your heart today?
What did you do today to remove the box that you had placed God in and allowed Him to work through you?
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Rejoice! Monday, January 10, 2011
Reading: Philippians 4:4, Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!
There are just mornings that you’re tired, you just don’t feel motivated, things are getting to you, getting you down, you feel frustrated and/or you just don’t feel fulfilled. This morning was one of those mornings for me and then I walked outside to go to work. As I looked up from my monotonous trance, I glanced and saw a guy that I see walking down the sidewalk at the exact same time at the exact same place almost every day. At first, I had the twinge of “I don’t want to say, HI, like I usually do” but, I looked up, smiled, waved and said, “Hi”. He had his usual big smile and waved back at me. You see, this man isn’t the typical man walking down the sidewalk. He is mentally challenged. But, there is not a single day that I have seen him in that exact same spot, walking down the sidewalk, that he didn’t have a huge smile on his face as he waved and said a very happy, “Hello”. God’s loving conviction overwhelmed me, “Why is it that I have blessed you with so much and, yet, this other man, who most people would not consider him to be as blessed, is able to always be happy? Nothing seems to change his happiness.”
Are there situations that give cause for sadness or mourning? Yes, most certainly. But, we are still able to “rejoice in the Lord always”. God would never ask something of us, as this verse does, without the ability to actually perform it. If you notice, the verse does not say, “rejoice in every situation that you find yourself in”. It clearly and purposefully says, “Rejoice in the Lord”. Which means, find your joy in the Lord. One of the beautiful attributes of God is, He is always the same. He is the same when blessings flood my way and He is the same when tragedy strikes my life. Therefore, we always have the ability, in everything, to rejoice, to find our joy, in Him. Don’t let anything steal your joy today!
What are some things that are keeping you from “rejoicing in the Lord” today?
What are some things that you can “rejoice in the Lord” about today?
REVIEW
How were you able to “rejoice in the Lord” today?
How did this impact your perception of the events in you day?
Reading: Philippians 4:4, Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!
There are just mornings that you’re tired, you just don’t feel motivated, things are getting to you, getting you down, you feel frustrated and/or you just don’t feel fulfilled. This morning was one of those mornings for me and then I walked outside to go to work. As I looked up from my monotonous trance, I glanced and saw a guy that I see walking down the sidewalk at the exact same time at the exact same place almost every day. At first, I had the twinge of “I don’t want to say, HI, like I usually do” but, I looked up, smiled, waved and said, “Hi”. He had his usual big smile and waved back at me. You see, this man isn’t the typical man walking down the sidewalk. He is mentally challenged. But, there is not a single day that I have seen him in that exact same spot, walking down the sidewalk, that he didn’t have a huge smile on his face as he waved and said a very happy, “Hello”. God’s loving conviction overwhelmed me, “Why is it that I have blessed you with so much and, yet, this other man, who most people would not consider him to be as blessed, is able to always be happy? Nothing seems to change his happiness.”
Are there situations that give cause for sadness or mourning? Yes, most certainly. But, we are still able to “rejoice in the Lord always”. God would never ask something of us, as this verse does, without the ability to actually perform it. If you notice, the verse does not say, “rejoice in every situation that you find yourself in”. It clearly and purposefully says, “Rejoice in the Lord”. Which means, find your joy in the Lord. One of the beautiful attributes of God is, He is always the same. He is the same when blessings flood my way and He is the same when tragedy strikes my life. Therefore, we always have the ability, in everything, to rejoice, to find our joy, in Him. Don’t let anything steal your joy today!
What are some things that are keeping you from “rejoicing in the Lord” today?
What are some things that you can “rejoice in the Lord” about today?
REVIEW
How were you able to “rejoice in the Lord” today?
How did this impact your perception of the events in you day?
Saturday, January 8, 2011
CELEBRATION! Sunday, January, 9, 2011
Reading: Psalm 112:1-3, 1Praise the LORD. Blessed is the man who fears the LORD, who finds great delight in his commands. 2 His children will be mighty in the land; the generation of the upright will be blessed. 3 Wealth and riches are in his house, and his righteousness endures forever.
Review the questions and answers from this past week.
What key victories did you experience this past week in your 7 battles?
How can you celebrate and rejoice in the victories of this week which would give glory to God?
Reading: Psalm 112:1-3, 1Praise the LORD. Blessed is the man who fears the LORD, who finds great delight in his commands. 2 His children will be mighty in the land; the generation of the upright will be blessed. 3 Wealth and riches are in his house, and his righteousness endures forever.
Review the questions and answers from this past week.
What key victories did you experience this past week in your 7 battles?
How can you celebrate and rejoice in the victories of this week which would give glory to God?
Use Your Gift, Saturday, January 8, 2011
Reading: I Timothy 4:12-16, 12Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity. 13Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching. 14Do not neglect your gift, which was given you through a prophetic message when the body of elders laid their hands on you. 15Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress.
With young children of my own, I am constantly intrigued at Christmas and birthdays which gift they are going to really cling to and which gift they would just as soon do without. There are so many times that “you just know that they are going to love it!!!” Then they open it, and the last thing that their face communicates is absolute adoration for this gift. Even at a certain age, they would much rather play with the box that the gift came in, then to play with the gift. At which, you begin to wonder “Then, what was the point of getting this?” Then, you have us, the adults. Have you ever received a gift, tucked it away, then found it a while later and completely forgot that you had it? My brother-in-law and I had about a five year string going when we would give the tie that the other one had given the previous year. I don’t think we wore the tie even one time. It just sat on the tie rack. Too many times we are the same way with our spiritual gifts from God. It may not be the most popular gift. We may experience fear in demonstrating that gift. We may not think we have time to use the gift, but, what Paul said to Timothy, to “not neglect your gift”, was a command to follow. A legitimate struggle for you could be that you don’t know what your gifts are. It’s difficult to open your gift and use it, if you don’t know what it is.
Challenge: If you don’t know what your gifts are, talk to your group and ask them to help you with developing a list of your gifts.
What are your gifts?
How can you use those gifts in your life without neglecting them?
REVIEW
What did you learn about your gifts today?
How were you able to use your gifts today?
Reading: I Timothy 4:12-16, 12Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity. 13Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching. 14Do not neglect your gift, which was given you through a prophetic message when the body of elders laid their hands on you. 15Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress.
With young children of my own, I am constantly intrigued at Christmas and birthdays which gift they are going to really cling to and which gift they would just as soon do without. There are so many times that “you just know that they are going to love it!!!” Then they open it, and the last thing that their face communicates is absolute adoration for this gift. Even at a certain age, they would much rather play with the box that the gift came in, then to play with the gift. At which, you begin to wonder “Then, what was the point of getting this?” Then, you have us, the adults. Have you ever received a gift, tucked it away, then found it a while later and completely forgot that you had it? My brother-in-law and I had about a five year string going when we would give the tie that the other one had given the previous year. I don’t think we wore the tie even one time. It just sat on the tie rack. Too many times we are the same way with our spiritual gifts from God. It may not be the most popular gift. We may experience fear in demonstrating that gift. We may not think we have time to use the gift, but, what Paul said to Timothy, to “not neglect your gift”, was a command to follow. A legitimate struggle for you could be that you don’t know what your gifts are. It’s difficult to open your gift and use it, if you don’t know what it is.
Challenge: If you don’t know what your gifts are, talk to your group and ask them to help you with developing a list of your gifts.
What are your gifts?
How can you use those gifts in your life without neglecting them?
REVIEW
What did you learn about your gifts today?
How were you able to use your gifts today?
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Deny the Power? Friday, January 7, 2011
Reading: II Timothy 3:1-5, 1But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. 2People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, 3without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, 4treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God— 5having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with them.
Although Paul lists quite a few things in these verses as characteristics of the last days, one of the most predominate problem in our churches today amongst this list is the last one, “having a form of godliness but denying its power”. Come on, men, the same God that created the entire universe, brought down fire from heaven and consumed Elijah’s burnt offering, parted the Red Sea so Israel could cross on dry ground, brought plagues upon Egypt, flooded the entire earth , did I mention, created the entire universe?, stopped the mouths of lions, stopped fire from consuming three faithful followers, did I mention, created the entire universe?, healed the sick, gave sight to the blind, cast out demons, do we need to continue? And, this fantastic God, has given us His spirit to live within us; who, mind you, happened to do some pretty amazing things, like heal the sick, give sight to the blind, speak in foreign languages, cast out demons, through some fishermen, a tax collector, a physician. You can study the Bible pretty thoroughly in the Hebrew and Greek, you will not find that these men went and got their theology or doctor of divinity degrees. They were plain, ordinary men, who had an extraordinary faith that the God of the Old Testament is the same God of the New Testament. The only boundary for His power in your life is your faith. But, with our nice, little comfort zone, we like the “controllable” box that we’ve placed Him in and in doing so we have a form of godliness but deny its power. Why do we think that nothing is impossible for God, unless it’s something that He could be doing through us?
What can you do today to stretch your faith and experience the power of God in your life?
REVIEW
What were you able to do today to stretch your faith and experience the power of God?
How did this impact you, your faith and your perception of God working through you in powerful ways?
Reading: II Timothy 3:1-5, 1But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. 2People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, 3without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, 4treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God— 5having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with them.
Although Paul lists quite a few things in these verses as characteristics of the last days, one of the most predominate problem in our churches today amongst this list is the last one, “having a form of godliness but denying its power”. Come on, men, the same God that created the entire universe, brought down fire from heaven and consumed Elijah’s burnt offering, parted the Red Sea so Israel could cross on dry ground, brought plagues upon Egypt, flooded the entire earth , did I mention, created the entire universe?, stopped the mouths of lions, stopped fire from consuming three faithful followers, did I mention, created the entire universe?, healed the sick, gave sight to the blind, cast out demons, do we need to continue? And, this fantastic God, has given us His spirit to live within us; who, mind you, happened to do some pretty amazing things, like heal the sick, give sight to the blind, speak in foreign languages, cast out demons, through some fishermen, a tax collector, a physician. You can study the Bible pretty thoroughly in the Hebrew and Greek, you will not find that these men went and got their theology or doctor of divinity degrees. They were plain, ordinary men, who had an extraordinary faith that the God of the Old Testament is the same God of the New Testament. The only boundary for His power in your life is your faith. But, with our nice, little comfort zone, we like the “controllable” box that we’ve placed Him in and in doing so we have a form of godliness but deny its power. Why do we think that nothing is impossible for God, unless it’s something that He could be doing through us?
What can you do today to stretch your faith and experience the power of God in your life?
REVIEW
What were you able to do today to stretch your faith and experience the power of God?
How did this impact you, your faith and your perception of God working through you in powerful ways?
Level Ground, Thursday, January 6, 2011
Reading: Isaiah 26:7-9, 7 The path of the righteous is level; O upright One, you make the way of the righteous smooth. 8 Yes, LORD, walking in the way of your laws, we wait for you; your name and renown are the desire of our hearts. 9 My soul yearns for you in the night; in the morning my spirit longs for you. When your judgments come upon the earth, the people of the world learn righteousness.
If you are anything like me, you may chuckle a bit at the thought of life being level and smooth. Life seems to be anything but level and smooth. But, that’s not what Isaiah is talking about. It would be comparable to climbing a mountain and coming to a point where there is a ravine for as far as you can seen from side to side. Your journey and goal is to get to the other side to continue climbing up the mountain. You start climbing down into the ravine. It’s rocky and difficult but then you look up and see a bridge that spans the ravine. The bridge doesn’t take away the rockiness or difficulty of the ravine and the area that you need to cross, it simply makes the path level and smooth, well, and a lot easier, for that matter. The problem tends to be that we want the result of a level and smooth path of life, but we don’t want to have to wait for it. Yes, I said, “Wait for it”. Notice, Isaiah said, “walking in the way of your laws, we WAIT for you”. Too many times, the waiting is too difficult so we tend to go ahead through the rocky ravine. But, what produces the ability to wait? Verses 8 and 9 give us the answers. When your focus is removed from the path and placed on “desiring”, “yearning” and “longing” for God and walking with Him. The waiting doesn’t seem nearly as difficult because you don’t want to experience the journey without Him. So, however long the wait, you just know that you don’t want to go without Him.
What rocky or difficult ravines are you traveling through right now?
Do you “yearn for [God] in the night; in the morning [your] spirit long for [Him]”? If not, how can you get to that place?
REVIEW
How was your path today?
Were you able to wait on the Lord and did you yearn for Him and long for Him? How did this impact your day?
Reading: Isaiah 26:7-9, 7 The path of the righteous is level; O upright One, you make the way of the righteous smooth. 8 Yes, LORD, walking in the way of your laws, we wait for you; your name and renown are the desire of our hearts. 9 My soul yearns for you in the night; in the morning my spirit longs for you. When your judgments come upon the earth, the people of the world learn righteousness.
If you are anything like me, you may chuckle a bit at the thought of life being level and smooth. Life seems to be anything but level and smooth. But, that’s not what Isaiah is talking about. It would be comparable to climbing a mountain and coming to a point where there is a ravine for as far as you can seen from side to side. Your journey and goal is to get to the other side to continue climbing up the mountain. You start climbing down into the ravine. It’s rocky and difficult but then you look up and see a bridge that spans the ravine. The bridge doesn’t take away the rockiness or difficulty of the ravine and the area that you need to cross, it simply makes the path level and smooth, well, and a lot easier, for that matter. The problem tends to be that we want the result of a level and smooth path of life, but we don’t want to have to wait for it. Yes, I said, “Wait for it”. Notice, Isaiah said, “walking in the way of your laws, we WAIT for you”. Too many times, the waiting is too difficult so we tend to go ahead through the rocky ravine. But, what produces the ability to wait? Verses 8 and 9 give us the answers. When your focus is removed from the path and placed on “desiring”, “yearning” and “longing” for God and walking with Him. The waiting doesn’t seem nearly as difficult because you don’t want to experience the journey without Him. So, however long the wait, you just know that you don’t want to go without Him.
What rocky or difficult ravines are you traveling through right now?
Do you “yearn for [God] in the night; in the morning [your] spirit long for [Him]”? If not, how can you get to that place?
REVIEW
How was your path today?
Were you able to wait on the Lord and did you yearn for Him and long for Him? How did this impact your day?
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Transformers, Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Reading: Romans 12:2, 2Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
I am constantly amazed at the power of water. Of course, when we splash in a pool or enjoy a nice hot shower, the last thing we are thinking about is its massive power. But, then you go to the ocean and witness the waves crashing against the cliffs. Even standing in the water knee deep you can feel the water tugging at you as it subsides back into the ocean. Then you have the eroding forces of a water fall, especially those in Niagara Falls. Water… simply… water… the same substance that you use in that refreshing pool and shower, produces such power it erodes giant boulders over time and deteriorates rocky cliffs; so it can be with the struggle not to conform to the pattern of this world. The power and force of this world can seem overwhelming. But, the transformation that occurs by the renewing of your mind produces a giant dam, holding the power of the world in place, producing a peaceful lake on the other side and allowing you the ability to filter the world/water through. It gives you the opportunity to control the forces of the world upon your life, rather than the forces of the world deteriorating you and forcing you to conform to it. The key to the transformation is by renewing your mind. The word “renewing” means to start anew, afresh or to begin again. Practically speaking, evaluate it all.
Think through and write out what you are allowing in your mind that can pollute it and conform it to the pattern of the world. Then, remove those things today.
It does not accomplish anything by simply removing the bad. You must replace it with good. What are good things that you can be flooding your mind with today?
REVIEW
What pollutants were you able to remove today from your mind?
What godly things were you able to replace in your mind and in your thoughts today
Reading: Romans 12:2, 2Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
I am constantly amazed at the power of water. Of course, when we splash in a pool or enjoy a nice hot shower, the last thing we are thinking about is its massive power. But, then you go to the ocean and witness the waves crashing against the cliffs. Even standing in the water knee deep you can feel the water tugging at you as it subsides back into the ocean. Then you have the eroding forces of a water fall, especially those in Niagara Falls. Water… simply… water… the same substance that you use in that refreshing pool and shower, produces such power it erodes giant boulders over time and deteriorates rocky cliffs; so it can be with the struggle not to conform to the pattern of this world. The power and force of this world can seem overwhelming. But, the transformation that occurs by the renewing of your mind produces a giant dam, holding the power of the world in place, producing a peaceful lake on the other side and allowing you the ability to filter the world/water through. It gives you the opportunity to control the forces of the world upon your life, rather than the forces of the world deteriorating you and forcing you to conform to it. The key to the transformation is by renewing your mind. The word “renewing” means to start anew, afresh or to begin again. Practically speaking, evaluate it all.
Think through and write out what you are allowing in your mind that can pollute it and conform it to the pattern of the world. Then, remove those things today.
It does not accomplish anything by simply removing the bad. You must replace it with good. What are good things that you can be flooding your mind with today?
REVIEW
What pollutants were you able to remove today from your mind?
What godly things were you able to replace in your mind and in your thoughts today
Monday, January 3, 2011
Thief!, Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Reading: Matthew 21:1b-3, Jesus sent two disciples, 2saying to them, "Go to the village ahead of you, and at once you will find a donkey tied there, with her colt by her. Untie them and bring them to me. 3If anyone says anything to you, tell him that the Lord needs them, and he will send them right away."
The untold story often seems to be the man who owned the donkey and colt. Can you imagine looking out the window and seeing two men taking your car? I’m sure our first response would be to call 911 and then yell, “Thief! Get away from my car”. Furthermore, to hear the two “thieves” say, “The Lord has need of it”. I’m sure right after you hang up with 911, you’d call the insane asylum. But, can you imagine the place in His relationship with the Lord that the owner of the donkey and colt must have been in to hear and know that the Lord truly does have need for his belongings? It would be a place of holding loosely to his possessions and holding tightly to God, so that when an opportunity comes to give to the Lord He is already open and willing, and most likely excited, to do so.
Evaluate yourself. Are you holding more tightly to your belongings or to God?
Can you do without time with God (don’t answer the way you know it should be but, rather, the way that your attitude is and the way that you truly spend your time)
Can you do without time spent with your belongings?
What belonging or possessions would you have a hard time giving up? (be honest and be open)
Challenge: Take time today to give all that you have to God. You don’t have to physically today; but, get to a place where you are willing. In turn, hold tight to God! If God is leading you to give something, today, just do it!
REVIEW
What were you able to realize today about your attitude toward your possessions versus God?
How did this impact your overall view of things today?
Reading: Matthew 21:1b-3, Jesus sent two disciples, 2saying to them, "Go to the village ahead of you, and at once you will find a donkey tied there, with her colt by her. Untie them and bring them to me. 3If anyone says anything to you, tell him that the Lord needs them, and he will send them right away."
The untold story often seems to be the man who owned the donkey and colt. Can you imagine looking out the window and seeing two men taking your car? I’m sure our first response would be to call 911 and then yell, “Thief! Get away from my car”. Furthermore, to hear the two “thieves” say, “The Lord has need of it”. I’m sure right after you hang up with 911, you’d call the insane asylum. But, can you imagine the place in His relationship with the Lord that the owner of the donkey and colt must have been in to hear and know that the Lord truly does have need for his belongings? It would be a place of holding loosely to his possessions and holding tightly to God, so that when an opportunity comes to give to the Lord He is already open and willing, and most likely excited, to do so.
Evaluate yourself. Are you holding more tightly to your belongings or to God?
Can you do without time with God (don’t answer the way you know it should be but, rather, the way that your attitude is and the way that you truly spend your time)
Can you do without time spent with your belongings?
What belonging or possessions would you have a hard time giving up? (be honest and be open)
Challenge: Take time today to give all that you have to God. You don’t have to physically today; but, get to a place where you are willing. In turn, hold tight to God! If God is leading you to give something, today, just do it!
REVIEW
What were you able to realize today about your attitude toward your possessions versus God?
How did this impact your overall view of things today?
Sunday, January 2, 2011
On My Mind, Monday, January 3, 2011
Reading: Psalm 18:1, I love you, O Lord, my strength.
I’m sitting at my computer looking at a picture drawn by my daughter, a colorful beach scene complete with a sandcastle and seagull. Scrawled across the bottom is simply,
“To Dad Love, Grace.”
Why do I stare at it? Maybe because I like the starfish with a smiley face. Maybe because I’d like to be at a beach right now. Or maybe it’s because my heart jumps a beat knowing my daughter in all her busyness (which is constant, by the way) took time out of her day to remind me that I am loved.
I sure needed to hear that today. Some days my life seems too fast for even me to catch it. And I bet (according to my wife) so is my daughter’s. But at that moment on that day, I was on her mind. I was most important. I was reminded that I was needed, and I was loved.
As I thank God for my daughter, I can’t help but reflect on how much I love our Heavenly Father, yet I forget to tell Him. Every time I open the Bible, I’m reminded of His love for me. So how can I show Him my love? The same way my daughter showed me. I can take time just to tell him He’s on my mind, He’s most important, and He’s loved.
Take some time out of your day today, and tell your Heavenly Father that you love him!
Remember: “God loves each of us like there is only one of us to love.”
When can you spend some time today reminding God how much you love him?
What are some specific things about God you can thank Him or praise Him for?
REVIEW
Did you take time today to let God know how much you love Him and are thankful for Him? How did you accomplish that?
What did God reveal to you today about Himself?
I’m sitting at my computer looking at a picture drawn by my daughter, a colorful beach scene complete with a sandcastle and seagull. Scrawled across the bottom is simply,
“To Dad Love, Grace.”
Why do I stare at it? Maybe because I like the starfish with a smiley face. Maybe because I’d like to be at a beach right now. Or maybe it’s because my heart jumps a beat knowing my daughter in all her busyness (which is constant, by the way) took time out of her day to remind me that I am loved.
I sure needed to hear that today. Some days my life seems too fast for even me to catch it. And I bet (according to my wife) so is my daughter’s. But at that moment on that day, I was on her mind. I was most important. I was reminded that I was needed, and I was loved.
As I thank God for my daughter, I can’t help but reflect on how much I love our Heavenly Father, yet I forget to tell Him. Every time I open the Bible, I’m reminded of His love for me. So how can I show Him my love? The same way my daughter showed me. I can take time just to tell him He’s on my mind, He’s most important, and He’s loved.
Take some time out of your day today, and tell your Heavenly Father that you love him!
Remember: “God loves each of us like there is only one of us to love.”
When can you spend some time today reminding God how much you love him?
What are some specific things about God you can thank Him or praise Him for?
REVIEW
Did you take time today to let God know how much you love Him and are thankful for Him? How did you accomplish that?
What did God reveal to you today about Himself?
Celebration!, Sunday, January 2, 2011
Reading: Psalm 113:1-4, 1 Praise the LORD. Praise, O servants of the LORD, praise the name of the LORD. 2 Let the name of the LORD be praised, both now and forevermore. 3 From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets, the name of the LORD is to be praised. 4 The LORD is exalted over all the nations, his glory above the heavens.
Review the questions and answers from this past week.
What key victories did you experience this past week in your 7 battles?
How can you celebrate and rejoice in the victories of this week which would give glory to God?
Review the questions and answers from this past week.
What key victories did you experience this past week in your 7 battles?
How can you celebrate and rejoice in the victories of this week which would give glory to God?
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