Move the Mountain
Reading: Matthew 17:20, He replied, "Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."
Many people believe that, when Jesus said that you can move a mountain, he was speaking figuratively or metaphorically. Me?... I truly believe that He meant exactly what He said. God is the creator of the universe. He told that same mountain where to stand in the first place. This reminds me of the time my dad taught me a lesson about hunting. When I first started hunting, whether it was rabbit or deer, I would look about 20-40 feet out in front of me watching for movement. My dad realized what I was doing when he asked me, “Hey, did you see that deer over there?” And, in my typical response I would reply, “Deer? What deer? Really? Where?” My dad wisely told me that wherever my eyes were looking, I would see everything in between; so, he taught me to look as far as I can off in the horizon, and I would see the movement of the animal between where I’m looking and where I’m standing. That instruction has worked like a charm. Same is true with what Jesus is teaching. If Jesus said, “All you need is faith the size of a mustard seed to say, when there’s rain clouds overhead, ‘rain’ and it will rain.” The thing is, the chances are pretty high that it would be possible. Jesus chose something far off in the distance, not just something improbable but, rather, impossible. He knew full well that if He can get us to truly have faith that God could do that far off in the distance thing… then, everything in between is something that you and I can see through the eyes of faith as a possibility for God to do in and through us. Let’s not minimize God’s ability to accomplish His great power and glory through us. Believe that He really can move Mount Shasta.
How is your faith? Have you been limiting God to simply looking 20-40 feet out to the “possible”? In what areas in your life do you need to trust God to do the improbable or, better yet, the impossible and how can you do that today?
REVIEW
How were you able to specifically trust God and increase your faith in Him today?
What were you able to surrender to Him through faith and how did that impact your day?
Saturday, August 27, 2011
September 2, 2011
Draw Your Sword
Reading: Matthew 4:1-11, 1Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the devil. 2After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. 3The tempter came to him and said, "If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread." 4Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.'" 5Then the devil took him to the holy city and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. 6"If you are the Son of God," he said, "throw yourself down. For it is written: " 'He will command his angels concerning you, and they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.'" 7Jesus answered him, "It is also written: 'Do not put the Lord your God to the test.'" 8Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. 9"All this I will give you," he said, "if you will bow down and worship me." 10Jesus said to him, "Away from me, Satan! For it is written: 'Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.'" 11Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him.
Can you imagine going into battle, running out onto the battlefield, you reach for your sword and nothing’s there. You look around on the ground behind you and still don’t see it. A soldier from the enemy runs up to you with sword drawn… what do you think would happen next? The soldier always goes into battle prepared to wage war. Spiritually, our sword is the Word of God (Ephesians 6:17) Notice that every time Jesus was tempted. He had God’s Word (the Sword) ready and drawn. Also take note that He didn’t have to look it up. Men, every day is a spiritual battle… every day! Do you go into your day spiritually ready to wage war? The best way that you can today is…
Write down your most difficult spiritual battle that you are fighting right now:
What verse can you work on today to memorize so that you can have the Word of God readily accessible to fight this battle to win? (if you need help finding a verse, ask for help)
Key: Every time that Jesus quoted Scripture, the battle ended quickly!
REVIEW
Did you memorize a verse today to assist in your spiritual battle? (if yes, take a minute and review the verse in your head, maybe even quote it to your wife or friend)
How did this verse assist you in your spiritual battle today?
Reading: Matthew 4:1-11, 1Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the devil. 2After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. 3The tempter came to him and said, "If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread." 4Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.'" 5Then the devil took him to the holy city and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. 6"If you are the Son of God," he said, "throw yourself down. For it is written: " 'He will command his angels concerning you, and they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.'" 7Jesus answered him, "It is also written: 'Do not put the Lord your God to the test.'" 8Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. 9"All this I will give you," he said, "if you will bow down and worship me." 10Jesus said to him, "Away from me, Satan! For it is written: 'Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.'" 11Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him.
Can you imagine going into battle, running out onto the battlefield, you reach for your sword and nothing’s there. You look around on the ground behind you and still don’t see it. A soldier from the enemy runs up to you with sword drawn… what do you think would happen next? The soldier always goes into battle prepared to wage war. Spiritually, our sword is the Word of God (Ephesians 6:17) Notice that every time Jesus was tempted. He had God’s Word (the Sword) ready and drawn. Also take note that He didn’t have to look it up. Men, every day is a spiritual battle… every day! Do you go into your day spiritually ready to wage war? The best way that you can today is…
Write down your most difficult spiritual battle that you are fighting right now:
What verse can you work on today to memorize so that you can have the Word of God readily accessible to fight this battle to win? (if you need help finding a verse, ask for help)
Key: Every time that Jesus quoted Scripture, the battle ended quickly!
REVIEW
Did you memorize a verse today to assist in your spiritual battle? (if yes, take a minute and review the verse in your head, maybe even quote it to your wife or friend)
How did this verse assist you in your spiritual battle today?
September 1, 2011
Friends
Reading: Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, 9Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor. 10For if either of them falls, the one will lift up his companion. But woe to the one who falls when there is not another to lift him up.
Richard Exley, in his book, “Life’s Bottom Line” wrote,
“Jesus,
I’ve been thinking a lot about friends lately. Everybody is talking about relationships and really knowing each other, but n one seems to do much about it. Or, everyone wants to have the same friend - that person who’s up in front of the crowd or the gal with the toothpaste smile.
Hardly anyone seems willing to build relationship with ordinary people. You know – the married housewife, the overweight, under confident teenager or the quiet guy on the edge of the crowd.
Who was your friend, Lord?
I mean the person you could be yourself with, where You didn’t have to watch every word or meet someone’s unending expectations? You know, where did you go when you had to get away but you couldn’t bear to be alone again? Was Lazarus that special friend for you, Lord?
I think maybe he was. I started to pray, ‘Give me a friend like that’ but I thought better of it. Instead I pray, ‘Let me be a friend like that.’ Amen.”
Who can you be a friend to today?
How can you demonstrate that to that person(s) today?
REVIEW
Were you able to be a friend to someone today, if so, who?
How were you able to demonstrate being a friend to someone today?
Reading: Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, 9Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor. 10For if either of them falls, the one will lift up his companion. But woe to the one who falls when there is not another to lift him up.
Richard Exley, in his book, “Life’s Bottom Line” wrote,
“Jesus,
I’ve been thinking a lot about friends lately. Everybody is talking about relationships and really knowing each other, but n one seems to do much about it. Or, everyone wants to have the same friend - that person who’s up in front of the crowd or the gal with the toothpaste smile.
Hardly anyone seems willing to build relationship with ordinary people. You know – the married housewife, the overweight, under confident teenager or the quiet guy on the edge of the crowd.
Who was your friend, Lord?
I mean the person you could be yourself with, where You didn’t have to watch every word or meet someone’s unending expectations? You know, where did you go when you had to get away but you couldn’t bear to be alone again? Was Lazarus that special friend for you, Lord?
I think maybe he was. I started to pray, ‘Give me a friend like that’ but I thought better of it. Instead I pray, ‘Let me be a friend like that.’ Amen.”
Who can you be a friend to today?
How can you demonstrate that to that person(s) today?
REVIEW
Were you able to be a friend to someone today, if so, who?
How were you able to demonstrate being a friend to someone today?
August 31, 2011
Personal Bible Study
Reading: Romans 5:1-5, 1 Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ,
2 through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. 3 Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4 perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5 And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.
Illustration (how can you practically apply this Scripture to yourself?):
Questions or challenge for applying this principle to your life:
Answers for applying this principle to your life:
End of the Day Review
How did you do in applying God’s Word today?
Reading: Romans 5:1-5, 1 Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ,
2 through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. 3 Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4 perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5 And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.
Illustration (how can you practically apply this Scripture to yourself?):
Questions or challenge for applying this principle to your life:
Answers for applying this principle to your life:
End of the Day Review
How did you do in applying God’s Word today?
August 30, 2011
Spiritually Busted
Reading: Matthew 5:3, Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
“Blessed” means balanced or connected to God. The first way to be connected to God is to be “poor in spirit”. That means to be broken. Brokenness is the beginning of change. Jesus is not talking about finances. He’s talking about surrender. Realizing we need a way out. We need Jesus.
To be poor in spirit, we must also be humble. It is not a lack of self-importance. There is strength in knowing you need God. Humility is others first. It’s not thinking less of yourself, it’s thinking of others more. Jesus thought only of us. When He was in heaven He knew we needed a Savior and He was the only one who could do it. So, He went; a hero in action and strength while blanketed with humility.
The message translation of Matthew 5:3 says, “You’re blessed when you’re at the end of your rope. With less of you there is more of God and His rule.” In a poll of men, the toughest things for men to say are: 1) I’m sorry, 2) I need help and 3) I can’t do it. It’s time to change the pole.
If you evaluate your typical day, how much of it is you and how much of it is God through you? (literally write a percentage or something to indicate the difference)
In your typical day, how much do you think about yourself and your needs and how much do you think of others and their needs?
Challenge: Today, put yourself at the end of your rope. Realize your need of God to take control. Also, think about others and their needs more than yourself and act on those things.
REVIEW
How were you able to allow God to take control of your life today and demonstrate less of yourself and more of God?
How were you able to demonstrate your consideration of others more than yourself?
Reading: Matthew 5:3, Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
“Blessed” means balanced or connected to God. The first way to be connected to God is to be “poor in spirit”. That means to be broken. Brokenness is the beginning of change. Jesus is not talking about finances. He’s talking about surrender. Realizing we need a way out. We need Jesus.
To be poor in spirit, we must also be humble. It is not a lack of self-importance. There is strength in knowing you need God. Humility is others first. It’s not thinking less of yourself, it’s thinking of others more. Jesus thought only of us. When He was in heaven He knew we needed a Savior and He was the only one who could do it. So, He went; a hero in action and strength while blanketed with humility.
The message translation of Matthew 5:3 says, “You’re blessed when you’re at the end of your rope. With less of you there is more of God and His rule.” In a poll of men, the toughest things for men to say are: 1) I’m sorry, 2) I need help and 3) I can’t do it. It’s time to change the pole.
If you evaluate your typical day, how much of it is you and how much of it is God through you? (literally write a percentage or something to indicate the difference)
In your typical day, how much do you think about yourself and your needs and how much do you think of others and their needs?
Challenge: Today, put yourself at the end of your rope. Realize your need of God to take control. Also, think about others and their needs more than yourself and act on those things.
REVIEW
How were you able to allow God to take control of your life today and demonstrate less of yourself and more of God?
How were you able to demonstrate your consideration of others more than yourself?
August 29, 2011
Unseen Witness
Reading: Matthew 6:1-4, 1"Be careful not to do your 'acts of righteousness' before men, to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven. 2"So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. 3But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, 4so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
Job 16:19, “Even now my witness is in heaven; my advocate is on high.”
Golf's greatest feat is hitting the ball into the cup in one stroke. An interesting feature of the game is that a hole-in-one doesn't officially count unless it is observed by a second person. A lone golfer won't receive the credit and glory without a witness.
Sometimes I adopt a hole-in-one attitude: I feel that if others don't acknowledge my righteous deeds, they don't count. When I spend the day working hard on the yard, I point out to my spouse what I've done. Even at church I fill a need but enjoy telling others what my ministry is. When will I learn to be a secret giver? I'd like to be a contented servant, knowing that I only need one witness for my good deeds--my Father who watches me from heaven.
God not only sees us, but also reads our hearts. He knows when we give out of love and gratitude or when we give to receive praise from others. Only a selfless offering officially counts with him.
Think about it: Do you serve better when people are watching?
Can you be content in giving secretly?
Ask God to teach you how to look for His approval instead of the praise of people and secretly give to or serve someone today
REVIEW
What were you able to give to or serve someone secretly today?
How did it unfold and how did it make you feel?
Reading: Matthew 6:1-4, 1"Be careful not to do your 'acts of righteousness' before men, to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven. 2"So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. 3But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, 4so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
Job 16:19, “Even now my witness is in heaven; my advocate is on high.”
Golf's greatest feat is hitting the ball into the cup in one stroke. An interesting feature of the game is that a hole-in-one doesn't officially count unless it is observed by a second person. A lone golfer won't receive the credit and glory without a witness.
Sometimes I adopt a hole-in-one attitude: I feel that if others don't acknowledge my righteous deeds, they don't count. When I spend the day working hard on the yard, I point out to my spouse what I've done. Even at church I fill a need but enjoy telling others what my ministry is. When will I learn to be a secret giver? I'd like to be a contented servant, knowing that I only need one witness for my good deeds--my Father who watches me from heaven.
God not only sees us, but also reads our hearts. He knows when we give out of love and gratitude or when we give to receive praise from others. Only a selfless offering officially counts with him.
Think about it: Do you serve better when people are watching?
Can you be content in giving secretly?
Ask God to teach you how to look for His approval instead of the praise of people and secretly give to or serve someone today
REVIEW
What were you able to give to or serve someone secretly today?
How did it unfold and how did it make you feel?
August 28, 2011
CELEBRATION!
Reading: Psalm 30:1-4, 1 I will exalt you, O LORD, for you lifted me out of the depths and did not let my enemies gloat over me. 2 O LORD my God, I called to you for help and you healed me. 3 O LORD, you brought me up from the grave; you spared me from going down into the pit. 4 Sing to the LORD, you saints of his; praise his holy name.
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 30:1-4, 1 I will exalt you, O LORD, for you lifted me out of the depths and did not let my enemies gloat over me. 2 O LORD my God, I called to you for help and you healed me. 3 O LORD, you brought me up from the grave; you spared me from going down into the pit. 4 Sing to the LORD, you saints of his; praise his holy name.
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?
August 27, 2011
Playbook
Reading: II Timothy 3:16-17, 16All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
It’s amazing how times have changed to a certain degree. Nowadays, it is typical to see a football coach with a one page playbook in hand with which he covers his mouth to talk to the guys up in the sound booth or to call out the plays into the headset; a slight change over time from barking out the plays from the sidelines in the good-old-days. Even the days when the quarterback would have a rather large wristband with the plays subscribed within it on a card, seems to be fading to the high-tech. Either way, they are ways that football has found ways of using their playbook more efficiently. These plays and playbooks are studied and practiced, and studied and practiced. They would know them inside and out. Also, they would try to find out the plays and playbooks of the opponents to study those as well. It would cause them to be ready for the game.
Men, we have been given a playbook as well. And, whether we view it that way or not… every day is game day in the sport of the Christian life. Our playbook is “God-breathed”… “God-breathed”!!! Do you study the playbook? Can you imagine if any football player treated their playbook like we sometimes treat the Bible? I can just picture it… “They line up for the snap, on the 50 yard line and… wait… wait a minute… the receiver seems to be confused… and… what does he have in his hands… he’s not even paying attention… they hiked the ball… the receiver’s still standing there… is that the playbook in his hands? Wow… he’s not going to be in the game long.” The Bible is here for you today to equip you; and the plays?… they’ve been given by God.
How can you treat the Bible as your playbook to study and practice today?
REVIEW
What plays did you study today and how did you practice them?
How did this impact your perception of the Bible and its use in your life?
Reading: II Timothy 3:16-17, 16All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
It’s amazing how times have changed to a certain degree. Nowadays, it is typical to see a football coach with a one page playbook in hand with which he covers his mouth to talk to the guys up in the sound booth or to call out the plays into the headset; a slight change over time from barking out the plays from the sidelines in the good-old-days. Even the days when the quarterback would have a rather large wristband with the plays subscribed within it on a card, seems to be fading to the high-tech. Either way, they are ways that football has found ways of using their playbook more efficiently. These plays and playbooks are studied and practiced, and studied and practiced. They would know them inside and out. Also, they would try to find out the plays and playbooks of the opponents to study those as well. It would cause them to be ready for the game.
Men, we have been given a playbook as well. And, whether we view it that way or not… every day is game day in the sport of the Christian life. Our playbook is “God-breathed”… “God-breathed”!!! Do you study the playbook? Can you imagine if any football player treated their playbook like we sometimes treat the Bible? I can just picture it… “They line up for the snap, on the 50 yard line and… wait… wait a minute… the receiver seems to be confused… and… what does he have in his hands… he’s not even paying attention… they hiked the ball… the receiver’s still standing there… is that the playbook in his hands? Wow… he’s not going to be in the game long.” The Bible is here for you today to equip you; and the plays?… they’ve been given by God.
How can you treat the Bible as your playbook to study and practice today?
REVIEW
What plays did you study today and how did you practice them?
How did this impact your perception of the Bible and its use in your life?
August 26, 2011
Be Gracious
Reading: III John 1:9, I wrote to the church, but Diotrephes, who loves to be first, will have nothing to do with us.
Maybe today’s passage will help clarify graciousness in relationships. We live in a society which emphasizes self: “Think of yourself first”; “Do yourself a favor”; “You deserve a break”; “You’re worth it”. But, putting yourself first is really a reaction of selfishness. The other way to live is called being gracious. How do you live graciously for others?... for your spouse?
Let’s look at the descriptions of Gaius and Diotrephes. Diotrephes lived for himself instead of thinking of others. But, John referred to Gaius as a beloved friend. The word beloved means delight, admiration… that’s graciousness.
Being gracious is usually seen through words of concern, love and serving. One way to express graciousness from Scripture is through hospitality. It’s an expression of love. Paul told the church at Tome to practice hospitality (Romans 12:13) In Hebrews the words are even strong “Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by doing so, some people have entertained angels without knowing it” (Hebrews 13:2). Being gracious means, reaching out to meet the needs of others around you.
Think for a moment, are you more Gaius or Diotrephes?
What characteristics in your life determine your choice?
How could you be more gracious at work?
How could you be more gracious at home or in general to those within whom you come into contact?
REVIEW
Take some time to review your day and your actions. Were you able to demonstrate graciousness throughout the day?
How were you able to maintain that graciousness?
Reading: III John 1:9, I wrote to the church, but Diotrephes, who loves to be first, will have nothing to do with us.
Maybe today’s passage will help clarify graciousness in relationships. We live in a society which emphasizes self: “Think of yourself first”; “Do yourself a favor”; “You deserve a break”; “You’re worth it”. But, putting yourself first is really a reaction of selfishness. The other way to live is called being gracious. How do you live graciously for others?... for your spouse?
Let’s look at the descriptions of Gaius and Diotrephes. Diotrephes lived for himself instead of thinking of others. But, John referred to Gaius as a beloved friend. The word beloved means delight, admiration… that’s graciousness.
Being gracious is usually seen through words of concern, love and serving. One way to express graciousness from Scripture is through hospitality. It’s an expression of love. Paul told the church at Tome to practice hospitality (Romans 12:13) In Hebrews the words are even strong “Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by doing so, some people have entertained angels without knowing it” (Hebrews 13:2). Being gracious means, reaching out to meet the needs of others around you.
Think for a moment, are you more Gaius or Diotrephes?
What characteristics in your life determine your choice?
How could you be more gracious at work?
How could you be more gracious at home or in general to those within whom you come into contact?
REVIEW
Take some time to review your day and your actions. Were you able to demonstrate graciousness throughout the day?
How were you able to maintain that graciousness?
August 25, 2011
On the Way
Reading: John 4:4-15 , 4Now he had to go through Samaria. 5So he came to a town in Samaria called Sychar, Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well. It was about the sixth hour. 7When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, "Will you give me a drink?" 13Jesus answered, "Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, 14but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life." 15The woman said to him, "Sir, give me this water so that I won't get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water."
Acts 9:3-6, 3As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. 4He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, "Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?" 5"Who are you, Lord?" Saul asked. "I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting," he replied. 6"Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do."
As I speak to many men, there seems to be very few who are not extremely busy. We have a very difficult time “finding time” for ministry and seem to struggle even time find time for family. The thing is… Jesus was very good at meeting people’s needs on the way. If you notice the passage before John 4, Jesus didn’t tell his disciples that He was going to go to his ministry class near the well. It was simply on the way. Even the Good Samaritan story that we’ve review in a few different devotionals, he was “on the way”. Men, we don’t have to neglect being involved in ministry opportunities because of a busy schedule. God wants to use you “on the way”… on your way to pay for your gasoline, on the way to the dessert aisle, on your way to your desk at work, on your way to the hardware store. Wherever and whenever you’re on your way… He wants to use you to minster to others.
Is there someone who has a need that that you can meet “on the way”?
How can you make sure to have a heart and eyes for ministering to others today while you’re “on the way”?
REVIEW
Who were you able to minister to today?
How did it transpire and what impact did it make?
Reading: John 4:4-15 , 4Now he had to go through Samaria. 5So he came to a town in Samaria called Sychar, Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well. It was about the sixth hour. 7When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, "Will you give me a drink?" 13Jesus answered, "Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, 14but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life." 15The woman said to him, "Sir, give me this water so that I won't get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water."
Acts 9:3-6, 3As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. 4He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, "Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?" 5"Who are you, Lord?" Saul asked. "I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting," he replied. 6"Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do."
As I speak to many men, there seems to be very few who are not extremely busy. We have a very difficult time “finding time” for ministry and seem to struggle even time find time for family. The thing is… Jesus was very good at meeting people’s needs on the way. If you notice the passage before John 4, Jesus didn’t tell his disciples that He was going to go to his ministry class near the well. It was simply on the way. Even the Good Samaritan story that we’ve review in a few different devotionals, he was “on the way”. Men, we don’t have to neglect being involved in ministry opportunities because of a busy schedule. God wants to use you “on the way”… on your way to pay for your gasoline, on the way to the dessert aisle, on your way to your desk at work, on your way to the hardware store. Wherever and whenever you’re on your way… He wants to use you to minster to others.
Is there someone who has a need that that you can meet “on the way”?
How can you make sure to have a heart and eyes for ministering to others today while you’re “on the way”?
REVIEW
Who were you able to minister to today?
How did it transpire and what impact did it make?
Monday, August 22, 2011
August 24 2011
Where Is Your Focus?
Reading:Hebrews 12:2, Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Where is your focus today? What do you have ahead for yourself?
This day… and every day hereafter… is your chance to celebrate the life that God has given you. It’s also a chance to give thanks to the One who has offered you more blessing than you can possibly count. Let me ask you again… what is your focus today? Are you willing to focus your thoughts and energies on God’s blessings and upon His will for your life? Or, will you turn your thoughts to other things… things that don’t really matter?
The choice is yours. Today why not focus your thoughts on the joy that is rightfully yours in Christ? Why not take time to celebrate God’s creation around you? Trust your hopes instead of your fears.
When you do, you will become more joyful... easier to be around. When you think optimistically about your future, that God holds your joy will become contagious, and you can then share your optimism with others.
Fix your eyes on Jesus.
So, men, where is your focus today?
What are some potential stumbling blocks that could cause you to lose focus on Jesus today?
What can you do to prepare for those things to continue to fix your eyes on Him?
End of the Day Review
Were you able to keep your focus on Jesus all throughout the day?
How were you able to accomplish this today?
Reading:Hebrews 12:2, Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Where is your focus today? What do you have ahead for yourself?
This day… and every day hereafter… is your chance to celebrate the life that God has given you. It’s also a chance to give thanks to the One who has offered you more blessing than you can possibly count. Let me ask you again… what is your focus today? Are you willing to focus your thoughts and energies on God’s blessings and upon His will for your life? Or, will you turn your thoughts to other things… things that don’t really matter?
The choice is yours. Today why not focus your thoughts on the joy that is rightfully yours in Christ? Why not take time to celebrate God’s creation around you? Trust your hopes instead of your fears.
When you do, you will become more joyful... easier to be around. When you think optimistically about your future, that God holds your joy will become contagious, and you can then share your optimism with others.
Fix your eyes on Jesus.
So, men, where is your focus today?
What are some potential stumbling blocks that could cause you to lose focus on Jesus today?
What can you do to prepare for those things to continue to fix your eyes on Him?
End of the Day Review
Were you able to keep your focus on Jesus all throughout the day?
How were you able to accomplish this today?
August 23 2011
Happily Insulted?
Reading:Matthew 5: 11, 12 – “Happy are you when people insult you and persecute you and tell all kinds of evil lies against you because you are my followers. Be happy and glad, for a great reward is kept for you in heaven. This is how the prophets who lived before you were persecuted.”
I recently sat at breakfast with a couple friends and we spoke about how our society has changed. It has come so far from a “God-centered” society and lifestyle. We live in a world where not only is a blind eye turned to much of the immorality out there, but it is frowned upon to be a man who speaks openly of his faith and his beliefs. Do not be afraid to speak of God in our daily lives. Let your family and friends know that we make our choices for a reason, and the reason is God.
Is God worth any amount of ridicule that you may take from others for sharing your faith and beliefs?
Why is God worth it?
Take a moment to pray and ask God to lay someone on your heart to share your faith with today.
Who did God lay on your heart?
How can you show your faith to that person today?
REVIEW
Were you able to share your faith with someone today?
How did it transpire? What was the result?
Reading:Matthew 5: 11, 12 – “Happy are you when people insult you and persecute you and tell all kinds of evil lies against you because you are my followers. Be happy and glad, for a great reward is kept for you in heaven. This is how the prophets who lived before you were persecuted.”
I recently sat at breakfast with a couple friends and we spoke about how our society has changed. It has come so far from a “God-centered” society and lifestyle. We live in a world where not only is a blind eye turned to much of the immorality out there, but it is frowned upon to be a man who speaks openly of his faith and his beliefs. Do not be afraid to speak of God in our daily lives. Let your family and friends know that we make our choices for a reason, and the reason is God.
Is God worth any amount of ridicule that you may take from others for sharing your faith and beliefs?
Why is God worth it?
Take a moment to pray and ask God to lay someone on your heart to share your faith with today.
Who did God lay on your heart?
How can you show your faith to that person today?
REVIEW
Were you able to share your faith with someone today?
How did it transpire? What was the result?
August 22 2011
Give Thanks
Reading: Psalm 35:18, 18 I will give you thanks in the great assembly; among throngs of people I will praise you.
Ephesians 1:15-16, 15For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, 16I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers.
Even if you woke up on the side of the bed, or have an extremely busy day ahead of you, or are going through a difficult time or are just plainly not in a good mood this morning, today is a day to thank the Lord and thank others. It is amazing what finding things to be thankful for can do for your view of your day.
What are you thankful for that God has done for you?
What attribute of God are you most thankful for today and why?
What will you do today to demonstrate your thankfulness to God?
What are you thankful for that someone else has done for you?
What attribute in someone else’s life are you most thankful for today and why?
What will you do today to demonstrate your thankfulness to others?
REVIEW
What did you do today to demonstrate your thankfulness to God?
What did you do today to demonstrate your thankfulness to others?
Reading: Psalm 35:18, 18 I will give you thanks in the great assembly; among throngs of people I will praise you.
Ephesians 1:15-16, 15For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, 16I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers.
Even if you woke up on the side of the bed, or have an extremely busy day ahead of you, or are going through a difficult time or are just plainly not in a good mood this morning, today is a day to thank the Lord and thank others. It is amazing what finding things to be thankful for can do for your view of your day.
What are you thankful for that God has done for you?
What attribute of God are you most thankful for today and why?
What will you do today to demonstrate your thankfulness to God?
What are you thankful for that someone else has done for you?
What attribute in someone else’s life are you most thankful for today and why?
What will you do today to demonstrate your thankfulness to others?
REVIEW
What did you do today to demonstrate your thankfulness to God?
What did you do today to demonstrate your thankfulness to others?
August 21 2011
CELEBRATION!
Reading:Psalm 30:10-12 , 10 Hear, O LORD, and be merciful to me; O LORD, be my help." 11 You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, 12 that my heart may sing to you and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give you thanks 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 30:10-12 , 10 Hear, O LORD, and be merciful to me; O LORD, be my help." 11 You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, 12 that my heart may sing to you and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give you thanks 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?
August 20 2011
Stop Wandering
Reading:II Corinthians 10:5, We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.
Do you remember some of the classes you took in high school or college that were downright boring? Did your mind wander? It’s embarrassing to have a teacher call on you when you’ve wondered off. We’re brought back to reality with a jolt.
Have you ever wandered off mentally when you were praying? Like right in the middle of your prayer you begin to think about work, lunch or vacation. Then you realize that your payer time is over and you didn’t get very far. Maybe that’s why today’s Scripture about bringing every thought captive is so important to a solid prayer life.
I cone read that we have been “untaught” to concentrate by television. T.V. has such short program shows and brief commercials that our attention span has become shortened as well. As a result, we wander mentally when others talk to us, when we talk with God and even when we read His Word.
One way to control your thoughts during devotions is to pray and read the Scriptures aloud. Try it for a week and watch the difference. You will concentrate better, retain what you read and begin to discover that your thoughts can be controlled. God asks us to concentrate on Him. What do you have to lose? It has to be better than when your mind starts wondering to… to… uh… what was I saying?... oh, yeah, it’s about time for lunch.
How can you spend time focusing on God without wandering today?
REVIEW
How were you able to focus on God today without allowing yourself to wander?
How did this impact your day and what you could learn from what God is trying to teach you?
Reading:II Corinthians 10:5, We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.
Do you remember some of the classes you took in high school or college that were downright boring? Did your mind wander? It’s embarrassing to have a teacher call on you when you’ve wondered off. We’re brought back to reality with a jolt.
Have you ever wandered off mentally when you were praying? Like right in the middle of your prayer you begin to think about work, lunch or vacation. Then you realize that your payer time is over and you didn’t get very far. Maybe that’s why today’s Scripture about bringing every thought captive is so important to a solid prayer life.
I cone read that we have been “untaught” to concentrate by television. T.V. has such short program shows and brief commercials that our attention span has become shortened as well. As a result, we wander mentally when others talk to us, when we talk with God and even when we read His Word.
One way to control your thoughts during devotions is to pray and read the Scriptures aloud. Try it for a week and watch the difference. You will concentrate better, retain what you read and begin to discover that your thoughts can be controlled. God asks us to concentrate on Him. What do you have to lose? It has to be better than when your mind starts wondering to… to… uh… what was I saying?... oh, yeah, it’s about time for lunch.
How can you spend time focusing on God without wandering today?
REVIEW
How were you able to focus on God today without allowing yourself to wander?
How did this impact your day and what you could learn from what God is trying to teach you?
August 19 2011
Imitator
Reading:Mark 15:25-30 , 25It was the third hour when they crucified him. 26The written notice of the charge against him read: THE KING OF THE JEWS. 27They crucified two robbers with him, one on his right and one on his left. 29Those who passed by hurled insults at him, shaking their heads and saying, "So! You who are going to destroy the temple and build it in three days, 30come down from the cross and save yourself!"
As we consider imitating Jesus, as a man, picture yourself in the place that He was. He was just beaten beyond recognition. He was nailed to a cross with a crown of thorns jammed upon His head. Yet, He had the power to truly “come down from the cross”, heal Himself and wipe out everyone that was standing against Him. Can you imagine the weakness and pain that He was physically enduring? When we are weak or in severe pain (although, I don’t think any of us have been in as much pain as He was), we tend to allow ourselves the leniency to “slip up” or lose our cool or react in a way that “we normally wouldn’t”. But, as a man, imagine knowing that you have the power to stop it all whenever you wanted to. Now, on top of that, people are walking by and taunting you to do exactly what you know you have the power to do. The struggle as a man to show them and prove to them you can do it would be immense. Yet, He stayed there. He… stayed… there! He had every right to prove to them exactly who He was and “put them in their place”… but, He didn’t. He harnessed all of His power even through extreme pain and suffering.
How do you respond in situations where you are tired, hurt or in pain?
Do you respond in a Christ-like manner?
How can you be an imitator of Jesus, today, in a way demonstrated in these verses?
REVIEW
How were you able to imitate Jesus today?
What did you have to do differently and how did it affect your day?
Reading:Mark 15:25-30 , 25It was the third hour when they crucified him. 26The written notice of the charge against him read: THE KING OF THE JEWS. 27They crucified two robbers with him, one on his right and one on his left. 29Those who passed by hurled insults at him, shaking their heads and saying, "So! You who are going to destroy the temple and build it in three days, 30come down from the cross and save yourself!"
As we consider imitating Jesus, as a man, picture yourself in the place that He was. He was just beaten beyond recognition. He was nailed to a cross with a crown of thorns jammed upon His head. Yet, He had the power to truly “come down from the cross”, heal Himself and wipe out everyone that was standing against Him. Can you imagine the weakness and pain that He was physically enduring? When we are weak or in severe pain (although, I don’t think any of us have been in as much pain as He was), we tend to allow ourselves the leniency to “slip up” or lose our cool or react in a way that “we normally wouldn’t”. But, as a man, imagine knowing that you have the power to stop it all whenever you wanted to. Now, on top of that, people are walking by and taunting you to do exactly what you know you have the power to do. The struggle as a man to show them and prove to them you can do it would be immense. Yet, He stayed there. He… stayed… there! He had every right to prove to them exactly who He was and “put them in their place”… but, He didn’t. He harnessed all of His power even through extreme pain and suffering.
How do you respond in situations where you are tired, hurt or in pain?
Do you respond in a Christ-like manner?
How can you be an imitator of Jesus, today, in a way demonstrated in these verses?
REVIEW
How were you able to imitate Jesus today?
What did you have to do differently and how did it affect your day?
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
August 18, 2011
There’s a Reason
Reading: Joshua 7:6-11a, 6 Then Joshua tore his clothes and fell facedown to the ground before the ark of the LORD, remaining there till evening. The elders of Israel did the same, and sprinkled dust on their heads. 7 And Joshua said, "Ah, Sovereign LORD, why did you ever bring this people across the Jordan to deliver us into the hands of the Amorites to destroy us? If only we had been content to stay on the other side of the Jordan! 8 O Lord, what can I say, now that Israel has been routed by its enemies? 9 The Canaanites and the other people of the country will hear about this and they will surround us and wipe out our name from the earth. What then will you do for your own great name?" 10 The LORD said to Joshua, "Stand up! What are you doing down on your face? 11 Israel has sinned; they have violated my covenant, which I commanded them to keep.
The background to this passage is, Achan stole some things from a city that they destroyed and, although God specifically told them not to take anything, he hid it in the ground in his tent. The next battle that they fought 36 men were killed, which was a first for Israel. This passage shows Joshua’s reaction to the defeat. Although the circumstances are not good for Israel, Joshua and, ultimately, Achan, I can’t help but chuckle at this passage of Scripture. Here Joshua is completely lamenting and God’s reaction to Him is amazing… “[Joshua, seriously] stand up! What are you doing down on your face?” With all that Joshua said in regret because of what happened, it was almost like God was saying, “Give me a break… Do you think I would just leave you out there to hang without a reason? I have a reason… I have a plan!!! Get that through your head. I ALWAYS have a reason!” We have the benefit in this passage to see what happened before and can read what God’s reason was for the defeat to occur. But, how many times does this happen in our lives? A defeat happens in our lives and we begin lamenting, even questioning the Lord. And, God has to come to us also and say, “Seriously? What are you doing? I always have a reason… ALWAYS. Simply trust me that I know exactly what I’m doing.”
Is there a struggle or a defeat that you’re going through? Is there a sin that God could be trying to bring to your attention? If not, can you simply trust God that He knows exactly what He’s doing and that He always has a good reason?
REVIEW
What struggles or defeat did you suffer today?
How did you trust that God knows exactly what He’s doing and how did you trust Him or evaluate your life for sin that God may be attempting to reveal?
Reading: Joshua 7:6-11a, 6 Then Joshua tore his clothes and fell facedown to the ground before the ark of the LORD, remaining there till evening. The elders of Israel did the same, and sprinkled dust on their heads. 7 And Joshua said, "Ah, Sovereign LORD, why did you ever bring this people across the Jordan to deliver us into the hands of the Amorites to destroy us? If only we had been content to stay on the other side of the Jordan! 8 O Lord, what can I say, now that Israel has been routed by its enemies? 9 The Canaanites and the other people of the country will hear about this and they will surround us and wipe out our name from the earth. What then will you do for your own great name?" 10 The LORD said to Joshua, "Stand up! What are you doing down on your face? 11 Israel has sinned; they have violated my covenant, which I commanded them to keep.
The background to this passage is, Achan stole some things from a city that they destroyed and, although God specifically told them not to take anything, he hid it in the ground in his tent. The next battle that they fought 36 men were killed, which was a first for Israel. This passage shows Joshua’s reaction to the defeat. Although the circumstances are not good for Israel, Joshua and, ultimately, Achan, I can’t help but chuckle at this passage of Scripture. Here Joshua is completely lamenting and God’s reaction to Him is amazing… “[Joshua, seriously] stand up! What are you doing down on your face?” With all that Joshua said in regret because of what happened, it was almost like God was saying, “Give me a break… Do you think I would just leave you out there to hang without a reason? I have a reason… I have a plan!!! Get that through your head. I ALWAYS have a reason!” We have the benefit in this passage to see what happened before and can read what God’s reason was for the defeat to occur. But, how many times does this happen in our lives? A defeat happens in our lives and we begin lamenting, even questioning the Lord. And, God has to come to us also and say, “Seriously? What are you doing? I always have a reason… ALWAYS. Simply trust me that I know exactly what I’m doing.”
Is there a struggle or a defeat that you’re going through? Is there a sin that God could be trying to bring to your attention? If not, can you simply trust God that He knows exactly what He’s doing and that He always has a good reason?
REVIEW
What struggles or defeat did you suffer today?
How did you trust that God knows exactly what He’s doing and how did you trust Him or evaluate your life for sin that God may be attempting to reveal?
August 17, 2011
Just Shoot!
Reading: I Corinthians 16:13, Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong.
I once coached a fifth and sixth grade basketball team. For the first seven games, I had been talking to one of my kids about trying to score a basket. He is the one who was always happy to be out there and ran around without a whole lot of purpose as far as the game was concerned. On the few occasions when he did receive the ball, he treated it like a hand grenade, trying as fast as possible to pass it to someone else never once actually looking at the hoop. During our second to last game, he finally picked up a loose ball, and fired one in. He threw his arms in the air and jumped up and down with a look on his face that was pure joy as he skipped to the other side of the court.
You can’t score if you don’t shoot the ball. Do not be afraid to stick your neck out. “Be on your guard, stand firm… be strong.”
Even though we are not little kids learning to play basketball, we can still tend to struggle with some of the same things. Some have a difficult time believing that God can use them… either they’re not good enough, they don’t know enough or they’re not the “first string”. Men, God wants us to score. He simply wants us to shoot the ball and rely on Him for the results. He will do the rest.
What are some things that we want to do but might be too afraid to try?
Are we missing out on some of God’s great joys because we lack the courage to “throw up a shot?”
What will you do today to make the attempt today?
REVIEW
What were you able to attempt for God today, that you may have been fearful of?
Did you score? Just like you may have encouraged a kid to not be discouraged if he misses but… to just keep shooting… same goes for us. No matter the result today, men, we just need to keep shooting.
Reading: I Corinthians 16:13, Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong.
I once coached a fifth and sixth grade basketball team. For the first seven games, I had been talking to one of my kids about trying to score a basket. He is the one who was always happy to be out there and ran around without a whole lot of purpose as far as the game was concerned. On the few occasions when he did receive the ball, he treated it like a hand grenade, trying as fast as possible to pass it to someone else never once actually looking at the hoop. During our second to last game, he finally picked up a loose ball, and fired one in. He threw his arms in the air and jumped up and down with a look on his face that was pure joy as he skipped to the other side of the court.
You can’t score if you don’t shoot the ball. Do not be afraid to stick your neck out. “Be on your guard, stand firm… be strong.”
Even though we are not little kids learning to play basketball, we can still tend to struggle with some of the same things. Some have a difficult time believing that God can use them… either they’re not good enough, they don’t know enough or they’re not the “first string”. Men, God wants us to score. He simply wants us to shoot the ball and rely on Him for the results. He will do the rest.
What are some things that we want to do but might be too afraid to try?
Are we missing out on some of God’s great joys because we lack the courage to “throw up a shot?”
What will you do today to make the attempt today?
REVIEW
What were you able to attempt for God today, that you may have been fearful of?
Did you score? Just like you may have encouraged a kid to not be discouraged if he misses but… to just keep shooting… same goes for us. No matter the result today, men, we just need to keep shooting.
Monday, August 15, 2011
August 16, 2011
Stop Blaming Others
Reading: John 9:1-3, 1As He passed by, He saw a man blind from birth. 2And His disciples asked Him, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he would be born blind?" 3Jesus answered, "It was neither that this man sinned, nor his parents; but it was so that the works of God might be displayed in him.
To blame others for our own problems is a favorite American pastime. Why? Because blaming is much easier than improving ourselves. So, instead of doing the work required to solve our problems, we are inclined to fret, to blame, and to criticize, while doing precious little else. When we do this, our problems, quite predictably remain unsolved.
So, instead of looking for someone to blame, look for something to fix, and then get busy fixing it.
The main thing to remember is something that A.W. Tozer once said, “We should never blame anyone or anything for our defeats. No matter how evil their intentions may be, they are altogether unable to harm us until we begin to blame them and use them as excuses for our own unbelief.”
What are some of the actions or potential failures for which you need to take responsibility?
Who do you tend to blame for those struggles or failures?
How can you make that right today?
REVIEW
How were you able to take responsibility for your own actions today, even if it was a mistake that you made?
How did this impact the people around you and how did it impact your day?
Reading: John 9:1-3, 1As He passed by, He saw a man blind from birth. 2And His disciples asked Him, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he would be born blind?" 3Jesus answered, "It was neither that this man sinned, nor his parents; but it was so that the works of God might be displayed in him.
To blame others for our own problems is a favorite American pastime. Why? Because blaming is much easier than improving ourselves. So, instead of doing the work required to solve our problems, we are inclined to fret, to blame, and to criticize, while doing precious little else. When we do this, our problems, quite predictably remain unsolved.
So, instead of looking for someone to blame, look for something to fix, and then get busy fixing it.
The main thing to remember is something that A.W. Tozer once said, “We should never blame anyone or anything for our defeats. No matter how evil their intentions may be, they are altogether unable to harm us until we begin to blame them and use them as excuses for our own unbelief.”
What are some of the actions or potential failures for which you need to take responsibility?
Who do you tend to blame for those struggles or failures?
How can you make that right today?
REVIEW
How were you able to take responsibility for your own actions today, even if it was a mistake that you made?
How did this impact the people around you and how did it impact your day?
August 15, 2011
Stagnant
Reading: Zephaniah 1:6, 12, I will cut off… 6 those who have turned back from following the LORD, And those who have not sought the LORD or inquired of Him." 12"It will come about at that time That I will search Jerusalem with lamps, And I will punish the men who are stagnant in spirit, Who say in their hearts, 'The LORD will not do good or evil!'
Men, the scary thing is… this describes most churches today. The emphasis of this devotional, as is no surprised based on the title, is being stagnant; BUT, before you dismiss this as something that you don’t need because of how busy you are, please understand… the greatest cause of a Christian’s stagnancy is business. We immediately associate “stagnancy” with sitting still and not being generally busy, which, in the secular world that is very true. Being busy does not constitute the absence of spiritual stagnancy. Oh, how often I see more and more people involved in sin, disregard the Word of God and excuse it as, “[they] feel closer to the Lord or more at peace” then they have in a long time. They “say in their hearts, ‘The LORD will not do evil”, or discipline me. “I feel good about where I am right now”, without including God in their life. By the way, “including God”, is not simply by going to church. Notice the strong language, “I will cut off”… “those who have not sought the Lord or inquired of Him.” You know what, men… to put these verses in laymen’s terms, it would simply be… they are just living life. They may even be really busy; but, they’re just living life. They don’t seek God and inquire of Him… and they don’t pursue God working in and through their lives, in the good and the bad. Over the years, I’ve seen many churches and many ministries and I’ve seen how we have slipped within the description of these verses. Churches are filled with really good people but they are not filled with really godly people. God calls us to shatter that stagnant spirit and arise to a life of godliness. Yes, it requires leaving that comfort zone… but, the reward is unlimited.
Where are you? Even though you may be busy… are you stagnant in spirit? If so, how can you break that today?
End of the Day Review
How were you able to shatter the spirit of stagnancy?
How were you able to seek God and inquire of Him throughout the day?
Reading: Zephaniah 1:6, 12, I will cut off… 6 those who have turned back from following the LORD, And those who have not sought the LORD or inquired of Him." 12"It will come about at that time That I will search Jerusalem with lamps, And I will punish the men who are stagnant in spirit, Who say in their hearts, 'The LORD will not do good or evil!'
Men, the scary thing is… this describes most churches today. The emphasis of this devotional, as is no surprised based on the title, is being stagnant; BUT, before you dismiss this as something that you don’t need because of how busy you are, please understand… the greatest cause of a Christian’s stagnancy is business. We immediately associate “stagnancy” with sitting still and not being generally busy, which, in the secular world that is very true. Being busy does not constitute the absence of spiritual stagnancy. Oh, how often I see more and more people involved in sin, disregard the Word of God and excuse it as, “[they] feel closer to the Lord or more at peace” then they have in a long time. They “say in their hearts, ‘The LORD will not do evil”, or discipline me. “I feel good about where I am right now”, without including God in their life. By the way, “including God”, is not simply by going to church. Notice the strong language, “I will cut off”… “those who have not sought the Lord or inquired of Him.” You know what, men… to put these verses in laymen’s terms, it would simply be… they are just living life. They may even be really busy; but, they’re just living life. They don’t seek God and inquire of Him… and they don’t pursue God working in and through their lives, in the good and the bad. Over the years, I’ve seen many churches and many ministries and I’ve seen how we have slipped within the description of these verses. Churches are filled with really good people but they are not filled with really godly people. God calls us to shatter that stagnant spirit and arise to a life of godliness. Yes, it requires leaving that comfort zone… but, the reward is unlimited.
Where are you? Even though you may be busy… are you stagnant in spirit? If so, how can you break that today?
End of the Day Review
How were you able to shatter the spirit of stagnancy?
How were you able to seek God and inquire of Him throughout the day?
Friday, August 12, 2011
August 14, 2011
CELEBRATION!
Reading:Psalm 33: 1-5, 1 Sing joyfully to the LORD, you righteous; it is fitting for the upright to praise him. 2 Praise the LORD with the harp; make music to him on the ten-stringed lyre. 3 Sing to him a new song; play skillfully, and shout for joy. 4 For the word of the LORD is right and true; he is faithful in all he does. 5 The LORD loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of his unfailing love.
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 33: 1-5, 1 Sing joyfully to the LORD, you righteous; it is fitting for the upright to praise him. 2 Praise the LORD with the harp; make music to him on the ten-stringed lyre. 3 Sing to him a new song; play skillfully, and shout for joy. 4 For the word of the LORD is right and true; he is faithful in all he does. 5 The LORD loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of his unfailing love.
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?
August 13, 2011
Search Me!
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, it is 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 a place in your house and let everyone in the house know that you cannot be disturbed. Find something that you can lay on the ground; a towel, a chalk drawn circle, or anything that will help you to have a visual 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 your 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?
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, it is 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 a place in your house and let everyone in the house know that you cannot be disturbed. Find something that you can lay on the ground; a towel, a chalk drawn circle, or anything that will help you to have a visual 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 your 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?
August 12, 2011
Faith, Hope & Love
Reading:I Corinthians 13:13, And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
Where did you get your role model for a godly man; from your father, friends, mentor, church, athlete, the Bible? We all have some idea of what a true man looks like. What about marriage? Where did you get your model for a marriage? Some say the Bible and yet the Bible does not really give us detailed models for marriage relationships. What it does give are principles for living that can shape a marriage into something positive and fulfilling which brings glory to God.
Here are three virtues which give us a basic model for healthy marital relationships: faith, hope and love. David Augsburger comments,
“Faith – faith is the commitment to creative fidelity. It is faithfulness to each other before God. It is believing and doing.
Hope – hope is the call to creative trust. It is hopefulness with each other before God. It is the pull from the possibilities of the future.
Love – love is the choice to see the other partner as equally precious; it is loving-kindness that acts in equal regard. Love is a way of seeing, feeling, thinking and acting toward another.”
So, how do you measure up in each area?
Faith –
Hope –
Love –
Challenge: Ask your Father for strength to follow His model today.
REVIEW
How were you able to follow God’s model today?
Faith –
Hope –
Love –
Reading:I Corinthians 13:13, And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
Where did you get your role model for a godly man; from your father, friends, mentor, church, athlete, the Bible? We all have some idea of what a true man looks like. What about marriage? Where did you get your model for a marriage? Some say the Bible and yet the Bible does not really give us detailed models for marriage relationships. What it does give are principles for living that can shape a marriage into something positive and fulfilling which brings glory to God.
Here are three virtues which give us a basic model for healthy marital relationships: faith, hope and love. David Augsburger comments,
“Faith – faith is the commitment to creative fidelity. It is faithfulness to each other before God. It is believing and doing.
Hope – hope is the call to creative trust. It is hopefulness with each other before God. It is the pull from the possibilities of the future.
Love – love is the choice to see the other partner as equally precious; it is loving-kindness that acts in equal regard. Love is a way of seeing, feeling, thinking and acting toward another.”
So, how do you measure up in each area?
Faith –
Hope –
Love –
Challenge: Ask your Father for strength to follow His model today.
REVIEW
How were you able to follow God’s model today?
Faith –
Hope –
Love –
August 11, 2011
Worship Our Father
Reading:Malachi 1:6-8, 6 "A son honors his father, and a servant his master. If I am a father, where is the honor due me? If I am a master, where is the respect due me?" says the LORD Almighty. "It is you, O priests, who show contempt for my name. "But you ask, 'How have we shown contempt for your name?' 7 "You place defiled food on my altar. "But you ask, 'How have we defiled you?' "By saying that the LORD's table is contemptible. 8 When you bring blind animals for sacrifice, is that not wrong? When you sacrifice crippled or diseased animals, is that not wrong? Try offering them to your governor! Would he be pleased with you? Would he accept you?" says the LORD Almighty.
If I were to tell you that you do not honor God as your Father, and you do not respect God as your master, and you show contempt for God’s name, what would you say? I would imagine the same response that I would say and the same way the people responded in this passage, “How have we” done those things? Notice what God said next to the people… you have not offered me your best! God sure knows how to drive a point home, doesn’t He? “When you sacrifice crippled or diseased animals… try offering them to your governor! Would he be pleased with you?” If we are asked to do something for our boss, or the board of directors, or a celebrity, or a senator, or anyone else that might give you special recognition, would you offer them your best? Would you offer them better than you would offer, when asked to do something for God? God went on to say, in verse 10, “Oh that there were one among you who would shut the gates, that you might not uselessly kindle fire on My altar!” He was saying, you are not even offering me a sacrifice, you’re just kindling a fire. I don’t even recognize it as a sacrifice, if it’s not your best! When you go to church are you offering your best? When you sing are you offering your best from your heart? Whatever you are doing “for God” are you truly offering your absolute best?
What will you be offering to God today?
How can you make sure that you are giving Him your best today?
REVIEW
What did you offer God today?
Did you offer Him and how did you make sure that it was your best?
Reading:Malachi 1:6-8, 6 "A son honors his father, and a servant his master. If I am a father, where is the honor due me? If I am a master, where is the respect due me?" says the LORD Almighty. "It is you, O priests, who show contempt for my name. "But you ask, 'How have we shown contempt for your name?' 7 "You place defiled food on my altar. "But you ask, 'How have we defiled you?' "By saying that the LORD's table is contemptible. 8 When you bring blind animals for sacrifice, is that not wrong? When you sacrifice crippled or diseased animals, is that not wrong? Try offering them to your governor! Would he be pleased with you? Would he accept you?" says the LORD Almighty.
If I were to tell you that you do not honor God as your Father, and you do not respect God as your master, and you show contempt for God’s name, what would you say? I would imagine the same response that I would say and the same way the people responded in this passage, “How have we” done those things? Notice what God said next to the people… you have not offered me your best! God sure knows how to drive a point home, doesn’t He? “When you sacrifice crippled or diseased animals… try offering them to your governor! Would he be pleased with you?” If we are asked to do something for our boss, or the board of directors, or a celebrity, or a senator, or anyone else that might give you special recognition, would you offer them your best? Would you offer them better than you would offer, when asked to do something for God? God went on to say, in verse 10, “Oh that there were one among you who would shut the gates, that you might not uselessly kindle fire on My altar!” He was saying, you are not even offering me a sacrifice, you’re just kindling a fire. I don’t even recognize it as a sacrifice, if it’s not your best! When you go to church are you offering your best? When you sing are you offering your best from your heart? Whatever you are doing “for God” are you truly offering your absolute best?
What will you be offering to God today?
How can you make sure that you are giving Him your best today?
REVIEW
What did you offer God today?
Did you offer Him and how did you make sure that it was your best?
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
August 10, 2011
Today, I Trust!
Reading: Psalm 91:1, He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High Will abide in the shadow of the Almighty.
What are you counting on for security? An IRA for your retirement? An inheritance from a wealthy relative? A CD account? Good health so you can work until your 70? These are all important, but none of them is really secure.
Before continuing on, if possible read the rest of Psalm 91 and read it out loud! The first couple verses remind us who God is and why we should trust Him. Verse 5 talks about the “terror of night”. This is talking about darkness. Darkness seems to threaten their sense of security. Do your fears increase at night? Do you worry more at night? Does your partner? If so, what do you ask of God at that time.
In the last few verses, the Lord himself speaks, promising to rescue us, protect us, answers us, be with us, deliver us, honor us, satisfy us with long life. Why? … because we love Him… but be careful. God is not saying that He will get you out of every trouble. He may not make all your troubles go away but He is saying that He will be with you during the difficulties. Are you facing something today in which you need to be reminded of God’s promises in Psalm 91? Talk with God… express your trust in Him.
Really take some time and think through what are fears that you are experiencing in your life. What are those?
14"Because [you have] loved Me, therefore I will deliver [you]; I will set [you] securely on high, because [you have] known My name. 15"[You] will call upon Me, and I will answer [you]; I will be with [you] in trouble; I will rescue [you] and honor [you].
How can you surrender those fears to God today and live in these verses?
REVIEW
Were you able to release your fears to God and rest in His promises in verses 14-15?
How were you able to accomplish that today and how did it impact your day?
Reading: Psalm 91:1, He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High Will abide in the shadow of the Almighty.
What are you counting on for security? An IRA for your retirement? An inheritance from a wealthy relative? A CD account? Good health so you can work until your 70? These are all important, but none of them is really secure.
Before continuing on, if possible read the rest of Psalm 91 and read it out loud! The first couple verses remind us who God is and why we should trust Him. Verse 5 talks about the “terror of night”. This is talking about darkness. Darkness seems to threaten their sense of security. Do your fears increase at night? Do you worry more at night? Does your partner? If so, what do you ask of God at that time.
In the last few verses, the Lord himself speaks, promising to rescue us, protect us, answers us, be with us, deliver us, honor us, satisfy us with long life. Why? … because we love Him… but be careful. God is not saying that He will get you out of every trouble. He may not make all your troubles go away but He is saying that He will be with you during the difficulties. Are you facing something today in which you need to be reminded of God’s promises in Psalm 91? Talk with God… express your trust in Him.
Really take some time and think through what are fears that you are experiencing in your life. What are those?
14"Because [you have] loved Me, therefore I will deliver [you]; I will set [you] securely on high, because [you have] known My name. 15"[You] will call upon Me, and I will answer [you]; I will be with [you] in trouble; I will rescue [you] and honor [you].
How can you surrender those fears to God today and live in these verses?
REVIEW
Were you able to release your fears to God and rest in His promises in verses 14-15?
How were you able to accomplish that today and how did it impact your day?
August 9, 2011
Temporary
Reading: II Corinthians 4:17-18, 17For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
If we begin the discussion about “earthly possessions” and their temporary nature, we may begin to think we’ve heard it before and we’re okay in that area. But, let’s consider this scenario. At your job, your boss makes $150,000 per year. You make $40,000 per year. You are barely able to pay the bills on the salary that you make but you do it. Your boss will take off a week for vacation and, after returning, tell the bookkeeper that he worked the whole time; therefore, no vacation time should be docked. This happens often and you know it isn’t the truth. You took an extra long lunch one day but knew that you already worked more than your 8 hours to make up for it. Yet, your boss informs you that you have to use vacation time for getting back late. Your boss begins using the company vehicle to drive to and from work, which is against Company policy, in fact, he removed the ability from anyone else to do so. Also, your boss informs you that, although any personal use of your company cell phone does not cost the company any money beyond the monthly $12, you will be penalized because he saw personal calls on your phone; yet, his phone costs the company $470, unnecessarily. You experience time and time again that your boss simply continues to look out for himself, to get more and more; meanwhile, taking more and more away from you, as it impacts you and your family. Now, I’m sure some would think, “I would be out of there” or “I would tell him what I think” or “I would tell someone above him”. Yet, the question is… do you know that God will take care of you? Do you know that, even as your boss “gains the whole world” (the temporary) he will still be losing his soul… the eternal? Would you be able to see past what he is doing and still be concerned about his eternal soul or would the temporary things mean that much to you that you would focus on that instead of his soul?
Really evaluate where you are and surrender your hold on the temporary and focus on the eternal today.
REVIEW
How were you able to focus on the eternal and let go of the temporary today?
How did this impact your perception and your attitude about the events in your day?
Reading: II Corinthians 4:17-18, 17For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
If we begin the discussion about “earthly possessions” and their temporary nature, we may begin to think we’ve heard it before and we’re okay in that area. But, let’s consider this scenario. At your job, your boss makes $150,000 per year. You make $40,000 per year. You are barely able to pay the bills on the salary that you make but you do it. Your boss will take off a week for vacation and, after returning, tell the bookkeeper that he worked the whole time; therefore, no vacation time should be docked. This happens often and you know it isn’t the truth. You took an extra long lunch one day but knew that you already worked more than your 8 hours to make up for it. Yet, your boss informs you that you have to use vacation time for getting back late. Your boss begins using the company vehicle to drive to and from work, which is against Company policy, in fact, he removed the ability from anyone else to do so. Also, your boss informs you that, although any personal use of your company cell phone does not cost the company any money beyond the monthly $12, you will be penalized because he saw personal calls on your phone; yet, his phone costs the company $470, unnecessarily. You experience time and time again that your boss simply continues to look out for himself, to get more and more; meanwhile, taking more and more away from you, as it impacts you and your family. Now, I’m sure some would think, “I would be out of there” or “I would tell him what I think” or “I would tell someone above him”. Yet, the question is… do you know that God will take care of you? Do you know that, even as your boss “gains the whole world” (the temporary) he will still be losing his soul… the eternal? Would you be able to see past what he is doing and still be concerned about his eternal soul or would the temporary things mean that much to you that you would focus on that instead of his soul?
Really evaluate where you are and surrender your hold on the temporary and focus on the eternal today.
REVIEW
How were you able to focus on the eternal and let go of the temporary today?
How did this impact your perception and your attitude about the events in your day?
Sunday, August 7, 2011
August 8 2011
Imitator
Reading:Luke 22:47-51 , 47While he was still speaking a crowd came up, and the man who was called Judas, one of the Twelve, was leading them. He approached Jesus to kiss him, 48but Jesus asked him, "Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?" 49When Jesus' followers saw what was going to happen, they said, "Lord, should we strike with our swords?" 50And one of them struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his right ear. 51But Jesus answered, "No more of this!" And he touched the man's ear and healed him.
Can you imagine being Jesus, standing there having just finished praying while having sweat of blood, while your men were falling asleep and knowing what’s about to happen? Here the men stand there with swords and spears next to one of His inner circle, Judas, who just betrayed Him. Peter draws a sword and cuts off a man’s ear. Not just any man… a man that came to arrest Jesus. No matter how hard I tried… I don’t know how I wouldn’t be standing there thinking, “Hmmm… you deserved that, didn’t you?” Not only did He not think that, He actually walked over and healed the man’s ear. Healed his ear… not one of his beloved follower’s ears… a man that came to take Him away to put Him to death. Yet, He still did it!
Really take some time to put yourself in Jesus place, from the fervent prayer, to seeing the mob walking toward you and seeing Judas leading them. Then to have one of your followers cut off the ear of one of them. Really let that sink in… what that would feel like… what you would be going through.
Is there someone in your life that is an opposition or someone that, it seems, is trying to hurt you, if so, who is that?
How can you imitate Jesus today in the same way that He healed this man’s ear in the midst of His arrest?
Challenge: Choose someone that you consider in opposition to you and go the extra mile to help them, to love on them, to show them the same love of Christ.
REVIEW
Who has been in opposition to you lately, to whom you were able to demonstrate the love Christ?
How did this impact you in your day as an imitator of Jesus Christ?
Reading:Luke 22:47-51 , 47While he was still speaking a crowd came up, and the man who was called Judas, one of the Twelve, was leading them. He approached Jesus to kiss him, 48but Jesus asked him, "Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?" 49When Jesus' followers saw what was going to happen, they said, "Lord, should we strike with our swords?" 50And one of them struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his right ear. 51But Jesus answered, "No more of this!" And he touched the man's ear and healed him.
Can you imagine being Jesus, standing there having just finished praying while having sweat of blood, while your men were falling asleep and knowing what’s about to happen? Here the men stand there with swords and spears next to one of His inner circle, Judas, who just betrayed Him. Peter draws a sword and cuts off a man’s ear. Not just any man… a man that came to arrest Jesus. No matter how hard I tried… I don’t know how I wouldn’t be standing there thinking, “Hmmm… you deserved that, didn’t you?” Not only did He not think that, He actually walked over and healed the man’s ear. Healed his ear… not one of his beloved follower’s ears… a man that came to take Him away to put Him to death. Yet, He still did it!
Really take some time to put yourself in Jesus place, from the fervent prayer, to seeing the mob walking toward you and seeing Judas leading them. Then to have one of your followers cut off the ear of one of them. Really let that sink in… what that would feel like… what you would be going through.
Is there someone in your life that is an opposition or someone that, it seems, is trying to hurt you, if so, who is that?
How can you imitate Jesus today in the same way that He healed this man’s ear in the midst of His arrest?
Challenge: Choose someone that you consider in opposition to you and go the extra mile to help them, to love on them, to show them the same love of Christ.
REVIEW
Who has been in opposition to you lately, to whom you were able to demonstrate the love Christ?
How did this impact you in your day as an imitator of Jesus Christ?
August 7 2011
CELEBRATION!
Reading:Psalm 40:1-5, 1 I waited patiently for the LORD; he turned to me and heard my cry. 2 He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. 3 He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the LORD. 4 Blessed is the man who makes the LORD his trust, who does not look to the proud, to those who turn aside to false gods. 5 Many, O LORD my God, are the wonders you have done. The things you planned for us no one can recount to you; were I to speak and tell of them, they would be too many to declare.
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 40:1-5, 1 I waited patiently for the LORD; he turned to me and heard my cry. 2 He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. 3 He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the LORD. 4 Blessed is the man who makes the LORD his trust, who does not look to the proud, to those who turn aside to false gods. 5 Many, O LORD my God, are the wonders you have done. The things you planned for us no one can recount to you; were I to speak and tell of them, they would be too many to declare.
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?
August 6 2011
An Active Participant
Reading:Ephesians 1:23, The church, you see, is not peripheral to the world; the world is peripheral to the church. The church is Christ's body, in which he speaks and acts, by which he fills everything with his presence.
One way that we come to know God is by involving ourselves in His church. In the book of Acts, Luke reminds us to “feed the church of God” (20:28). As Christians, who have been saved by a loving God, we have been called to a ministry and a mission. A ministry is what we do inside the church. We are compelled not only to worship Him in our hearts but also to worship Him with other believers.
Do you feed the church? Do you attend regularly? Are you involved in your ministry? Are you actively feeding? The answer to these questions should have an impact on the quality and direction of your spiritual journey.
Do yourself a favor… become an active participant in your church. Don’t just go to church out of habit. Go to church out of a sincere desire to know and worship God. When you do, you’ll be blessed and you will fulfill the commission of blessing others. God went His Son to die so that you might have everlasting life, a life that is lived to the fullest.
Often we think the “feeding” of the church is solely the responsibility of the pastors and staff of the church, and, yes, they should definitely be feeding the church. But, it is each of our responsibility to feed into our Band of Brothers. There should not be a single Brother who is going hungry spiritually and we need to make sure of that.
How can you feed your Band of Brothers today?
What is God leading you to do within the church and how can you do it?
REVIEW
How were you able to feed your Band of Brothers today?
What steps did you take to following what God was leading you to do within the church?
Reading:Ephesians 1:23, The church, you see, is not peripheral to the world; the world is peripheral to the church. The church is Christ's body, in which he speaks and acts, by which he fills everything with his presence.
One way that we come to know God is by involving ourselves in His church. In the book of Acts, Luke reminds us to “feed the church of God” (20:28). As Christians, who have been saved by a loving God, we have been called to a ministry and a mission. A ministry is what we do inside the church. We are compelled not only to worship Him in our hearts but also to worship Him with other believers.
Do you feed the church? Do you attend regularly? Are you involved in your ministry? Are you actively feeding? The answer to these questions should have an impact on the quality and direction of your spiritual journey.
Do yourself a favor… become an active participant in your church. Don’t just go to church out of habit. Go to church out of a sincere desire to know and worship God. When you do, you’ll be blessed and you will fulfill the commission of blessing others. God went His Son to die so that you might have everlasting life, a life that is lived to the fullest.
Often we think the “feeding” of the church is solely the responsibility of the pastors and staff of the church, and, yes, they should definitely be feeding the church. But, it is each of our responsibility to feed into our Band of Brothers. There should not be a single Brother who is going hungry spiritually and we need to make sure of that.
How can you feed your Band of Brothers today?
What is God leading you to do within the church and how can you do it?
REVIEW
How were you able to feed your Band of Brothers today?
What steps did you take to following what God was leading you to do within the church?
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Constant Contact, August 5 2011
Constant Contact
Reading:Psalm 16:7-9, 7 I will praise the LORD, who counsels me; even at night my heart instructs me. 8 I have set the LORD always before me. Because he is at my right hand, I will not be shaken. 9 Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest secure,
The time of the day that I struggle with the most doing what I need to do is at night. All day long, I’ve been doing what I need or have to do. After the kids go to bed and everything settles down, the last thing I want to do is do something that, I feel like, I have to do. Unfortunately, and much to my chagrin, I look at spending time with God during that time as a “have to”. It just seems easier to turn on the TV and “veg out”. I’ve heard people and statistics say that your mind does not work at all while you’re watching TV… and, ya know what? When I reach that time of the day, I’m really happy to participate in something that does not make my mind do anything at all. But, my ever loving, ever faithful and ever caring God wants and deserves a better relationship than that. If I’m considering my relationship with Him, at any point, as a “have to”, there’s something wrong; because, if a good friend of mine were to call, I wouldn’t be thinking that was a “have to” to talk to him.
I believe these verses indicate part of the reason why David was called, “A man after God’s own heart”. He was in constant contact. It was never a “have to”, it was a “get to” be in constant contact with my Father and almighty God. May we have a desperate desire to have a relationship with God that is in constant contact. May we always “set the Lord before” us, all throughout the day. “Even at night my heart [will] instruct me.”
How can you be in constant contact with the Lord throughout the day?
How can you set the Lord always before you today?
Even when you’re tired at the end of the day, how can you include God in it? (if you do, I think you’ll be surprised at how it will, as David said, bring your body rest)
REVIEW
How were you able to be in constant contact with God today?
How were you able to keep Him before you at all times throughout the day?
Reading:Psalm 16:7-9, 7 I will praise the LORD, who counsels me; even at night my heart instructs me. 8 I have set the LORD always before me. Because he is at my right hand, I will not be shaken. 9 Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest secure,
The time of the day that I struggle with the most doing what I need to do is at night. All day long, I’ve been doing what I need or have to do. After the kids go to bed and everything settles down, the last thing I want to do is do something that, I feel like, I have to do. Unfortunately, and much to my chagrin, I look at spending time with God during that time as a “have to”. It just seems easier to turn on the TV and “veg out”. I’ve heard people and statistics say that your mind does not work at all while you’re watching TV… and, ya know what? When I reach that time of the day, I’m really happy to participate in something that does not make my mind do anything at all. But, my ever loving, ever faithful and ever caring God wants and deserves a better relationship than that. If I’m considering my relationship with Him, at any point, as a “have to”, there’s something wrong; because, if a good friend of mine were to call, I wouldn’t be thinking that was a “have to” to talk to him.
I believe these verses indicate part of the reason why David was called, “A man after God’s own heart”. He was in constant contact. It was never a “have to”, it was a “get to” be in constant contact with my Father and almighty God. May we have a desperate desire to have a relationship with God that is in constant contact. May we always “set the Lord before” us, all throughout the day. “Even at night my heart [will] instruct me.”
How can you be in constant contact with the Lord throughout the day?
How can you set the Lord always before you today?
Even when you’re tired at the end of the day, how can you include God in it? (if you do, I think you’ll be surprised at how it will, as David said, bring your body rest)
REVIEW
How were you able to be in constant contact with God today?
How were you able to keep Him before you at all times throughout the day?
Shine! August 4 2011
Shine!
Reading:Philippians 2:15, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe.
The statistics are truly staggering. According to compiled numbers from respected news and research organizations, every second $3,075.64 is being spent on pornography. Every second 28,258 internet users are viewing pornography. In that same second 372 internet users are typing adult search terms into search engines. Every 39 minutes a new pornographic video is being created in the U.S. It’s big business. In 2006 Worldwide Pornography Revenues grew to $97.06 billion. Also, over 3 million reports of child abuse are made every year in the United States; however, those reports can include multiple children. In 2007, approximately 5.8 million children were involved in an estimated 3.2 million child abuse reports and allegations. Number of abortions in the U.S. per year: 1.37 Million (1996). Number of abortions in the U.S. per day: Approximately 3,700. 52% of women obtaining abortions in the U.S. are younger than 25: Women aged 20-24 obtain 32% of all abortions; Teenagers obtain 20% and girls under 15 account for 1.2%.
This doesn’t even scratch the surface of the “crooked and depraved” characteristics in our world today. But, with this verse and the world that we live in, I am reminded of the moment in the movie “the Untouchables” when Jim Malone (Sean Connery), had been shot and was laying there about to die. He pulled Eliot Ness close to him and with all the strength he could muster, said, “What are you prepared to do about this?”
What can you do about the crooked and perverse generation in which we live? SHINE! Shine, men! Shine! It’s not going to take a politician… it’s going to take the men of God rising up and shining!
How can you shine in your world today?
REVIEW
How were you able to shine in your world today?
How did this impact you, your day and those around you, to whom you shined?
Reading:Philippians 2:15, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe.
The statistics are truly staggering. According to compiled numbers from respected news and research organizations, every second $3,075.64 is being spent on pornography. Every second 28,258 internet users are viewing pornography. In that same second 372 internet users are typing adult search terms into search engines. Every 39 minutes a new pornographic video is being created in the U.S. It’s big business. In 2006 Worldwide Pornography Revenues grew to $97.06 billion. Also, over 3 million reports of child abuse are made every year in the United States; however, those reports can include multiple children. In 2007, approximately 5.8 million children were involved in an estimated 3.2 million child abuse reports and allegations. Number of abortions in the U.S. per year: 1.37 Million (1996). Number of abortions in the U.S. per day: Approximately 3,700. 52% of women obtaining abortions in the U.S. are younger than 25: Women aged 20-24 obtain 32% of all abortions; Teenagers obtain 20% and girls under 15 account for 1.2%.
This doesn’t even scratch the surface of the “crooked and depraved” characteristics in our world today. But, with this verse and the world that we live in, I am reminded of the moment in the movie “the Untouchables” when Jim Malone (Sean Connery), had been shot and was laying there about to die. He pulled Eliot Ness close to him and with all the strength he could muster, said, “What are you prepared to do about this?”
What can you do about the crooked and perverse generation in which we live? SHINE! Shine, men! Shine! It’s not going to take a politician… it’s going to take the men of God rising up and shining!
How can you shine in your world today?
REVIEW
How were you able to shine in your world today?
How did this impact you, your day and those around you, to whom you shined?
true Friends, August 3 2011
True Friends
Reading:II Thessalonians 1:12, If your life honors the name of Jesus, he will honor you. Grace is behind and through all of this, our God giving himself freely, the Master, Jesus Christ, giving himself freely.
Because we tend to become like our friends, we must choose our friends carefully. Our friends influence us in ways that are both subtle and powerful, we have to make sure that our friendships are pleasing to God. Some friendships help us honor God; these are friendships that should be nurtured. Other friendships place us in situation where we are tempted to dishonor God by disobeying His commandments. These friendships have the potential to do great harm.
C.S. Lewis once said, “In a circle of true friends each man is simply what he is, stands for nothing but himself.”
When we spend our days in the presence of godly believers we are blessed, not only by those friends but also by our creator.
Who would you consider to be your five closest friends? Next to each name, write a brief comment about how they impact your relationship with God:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
What friendship is the most valuable to you and why?
How can you pursue godly friendships today?
REVIEW
How were you able to pursue godly friendships today?
What impact did evaluating your friendships have on you today?
Reading:II Thessalonians 1:12, If your life honors the name of Jesus, he will honor you. Grace is behind and through all of this, our God giving himself freely, the Master, Jesus Christ, giving himself freely.
Because we tend to become like our friends, we must choose our friends carefully. Our friends influence us in ways that are both subtle and powerful, we have to make sure that our friendships are pleasing to God. Some friendships help us honor God; these are friendships that should be nurtured. Other friendships place us in situation where we are tempted to dishonor God by disobeying His commandments. These friendships have the potential to do great harm.
C.S. Lewis once said, “In a circle of true friends each man is simply what he is, stands for nothing but himself.”
When we spend our days in the presence of godly believers we are blessed, not only by those friends but also by our creator.
Who would you consider to be your five closest friends? Next to each name, write a brief comment about how they impact your relationship with God:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
What friendship is the most valuable to you and why?
How can you pursue godly friendships today?
REVIEW
How were you able to pursue godly friendships today?
What impact did evaluating your friendships have on you today?
Monday, August 1, 2011
You’re on Trial, August 2, 2011
You’re on Trial
Reading: I Peter 1:6-7, 6In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. 7These have come so that your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.
Men, how strong is your faith? Many people believe that their faith is strong until something happens that causes one to question how God could allow something to happen. For instance, I know of multiple situations where a child has died in a family and it has ripped the family to shreds. They turn their back on God and cannot allow their faith to believe that God could allow that to happen. Yet, I see another family, whom I know, who had nine children and lost their six youngest children in a car fire in which the parents escaped with severe burns. Afterwards, they were on national television proclaiming God’s faithfulness even through this tragedy. Men, we are on trial. Every test, every trial is to prove that your faith is genuine. It’s easy to say that you believe something; it’s a different story when it’s put to the test in a very hurtful way.
So, how strong is your faith? What could happen that might shake your faith?
With all the religions in the world, if someone walked up to you from a different religion and performed, what appeared to be a miracle right before your eyes, would it shake your faith?
Do you value your faith as much as God values your faith, in that, it is worth going through trials, struggles and hurts to refine your faith and strengthen it in Him?
What trials are you going through right now, and how can you rest in Him that He was a purpose and how can you prove your faith in God throughout it?
REVIEW
How were you able to trust God and allow God to increase your faith through the trials that you’re experiencing?
How did this impact the trials or struggles that you’re experiencing?
Reading: I Peter 1:6-7, 6In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. 7These have come so that your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.
Men, how strong is your faith? Many people believe that their faith is strong until something happens that causes one to question how God could allow something to happen. For instance, I know of multiple situations where a child has died in a family and it has ripped the family to shreds. They turn their back on God and cannot allow their faith to believe that God could allow that to happen. Yet, I see another family, whom I know, who had nine children and lost their six youngest children in a car fire in which the parents escaped with severe burns. Afterwards, they were on national television proclaiming God’s faithfulness even through this tragedy. Men, we are on trial. Every test, every trial is to prove that your faith is genuine. It’s easy to say that you believe something; it’s a different story when it’s put to the test in a very hurtful way.
So, how strong is your faith? What could happen that might shake your faith?
With all the religions in the world, if someone walked up to you from a different religion and performed, what appeared to be a miracle right before your eyes, would it shake your faith?
Do you value your faith as much as God values your faith, in that, it is worth going through trials, struggles and hurts to refine your faith and strengthen it in Him?
What trials are you going through right now, and how can you rest in Him that He was a purpose and how can you prove your faith in God throughout it?
REVIEW
How were you able to trust God and allow God to increase your faith through the trials that you’re experiencing?
How did this impact the trials or struggles that you’re experiencing?
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