When tough times come, sometimes it is all we can do to just hang on and endure them. Yet God has specific direction for us in His Word on how to deal with them in a healthy and constructive way. How to not let them defeat us, but on how to let them to be used to grow and mature us.
Each week through the end of 2010, we'll spotlight a different struggle and each day of the week, we'll post verses that speak to us personally on how to grow through that struggle and learn more each day to rely on God's strength and leading.
Since July 1 falls on a Thursday, we'll go with a new topic each Thursday.
This Thursday, we'll start examining how to rely on God when we struggle with anger.
See you then.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
June 30 - Faithful
Faithful are You who has called me; You will keep Your promise. 1 Thessalonians 5:24
Promises are made and broken every day. Probably the most visible are those of the marriage vows. With the divorce rate hovering at around 50%, it is clear that we struggle with keeping promises.
But God doesn't. When He makes a promise, He delivers.
Always.
It may not look like we want it to or think it should, but His ways are higher than than our ways. And He is always faithful to keep His promise.
How does that affect your state of mind?
Promises are made and broken every day. Probably the most visible are those of the marriage vows. With the divorce rate hovering at around 50%, it is clear that we struggle with keeping promises.
But God doesn't. When He makes a promise, He delivers.
Always.
It may not look like we want it to or think it should, but His ways are higher than than our ways. And He is always faithful to keep His promise.
How does that affect your state of mind?
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
June 29 - Receive
Whatever things I desire, when I pray, I believe that I receive them and I shall have them. Mark 11:24
Desires are tricky. Desiring what we might want at the moment is a whole different thing than desiring what God knows is best for us. Knowing God's will and seeking it with all we have is not an easy thing to do. It does not come naturally.
Yet, for the believer, when we set our hearts on desiring the things of God instead of focusing on our own selfish desires, not only do we please Him, but we also receive from Him what we ask for.
What have you received from God in the last year?
Desires are tricky. Desiring what we might want at the moment is a whole different thing than desiring what God knows is best for us. Knowing God's will and seeking it with all we have is not an easy thing to do. It does not come naturally.
Yet, for the believer, when we set our hearts on desiring the things of God instead of focusing on our own selfish desires, not only do we please Him, but we also receive from Him what we ask for.
What have you received from God in the last year?
Monday, June 28, 2010
June 28 - Confess
I acknowledged my sin to You, and I have not hidden my offense. I said, I will confess my transgressions to the LORD; and You forgave the iniquity of my sin. Psalm 32:5
Have you ever had someone ask for your forgiveness for "anything I might have done"? Those words ring hollow if you have pointed out to the person what they did that hurt you.
You know why? Because they are not owning the offense.
They don't even have to agree with your assessment of what happened, but if you spell it out and the best they can do is to say they're sorry for anything they might have done to hurt you, then that apology would seem to be insincere. Because they are not owning the hurt they caused you.
So why confess our sins if God already knows what they are? How does that benefit Him?
Well, it doesn't. It benefits us.
It causes us to own our sin before God instead of playing some word games that would allow us to gloss it over.
However, the payoff of genuine confession is huge.
Forgiveness.
What are some experiences you have had with confession?
Have you ever had someone ask for your forgiveness for "anything I might have done"? Those words ring hollow if you have pointed out to the person what they did that hurt you.
You know why? Because they are not owning the offense.
They don't even have to agree with your assessment of what happened, but if you spell it out and the best they can do is to say they're sorry for anything they might have done to hurt you, then that apology would seem to be insincere. Because they are not owning the hurt they caused you.
So why confess our sins if God already knows what they are? How does that benefit Him?
Well, it doesn't. It benefits us.
It causes us to own our sin before God instead of playing some word games that would allow us to gloss it over.
However, the payoff of genuine confession is huge.
Forgiveness.
What are some experiences you have had with confession?
June 27 - Grace
By grace I am saved through faith, and it is not of myself; it is Your gift, God. Ephesians 2:8
"I've got all eggs in one basket and I don't have a back up plan." My friend Bob spoke those words last week at a camp in Abilene.
The scariest thing about that concept is that it takes all control away from us and puts it in the hands of our Creator.
When we walk by faith and let all other things we might try to rely on for our lives go, God is honored and extends His saving grace to us.
But the key words might be "it is not of myself." Giving up control is tricky at best and horrifying at worst. We want God's grace, but often only if we feel like we've done our fair share and helped Him along in the process.
But then it wouldn't really be grace, would it?
How does this passage affect you?
"I've got all eggs in one basket and I don't have a back up plan." My friend Bob spoke those words last week at a camp in Abilene.
The scariest thing about that concept is that it takes all control away from us and puts it in the hands of our Creator.
When we walk by faith and let all other things we might try to rely on for our lives go, God is honored and extends His saving grace to us.
But the key words might be "it is not of myself." Giving up control is tricky at best and horrifying at worst. We want God's grace, but often only if we feel like we've done our fair share and helped Him along in the process.
But then it wouldn't really be grace, would it?
How does this passage affect you?
Saturday, June 26, 2010
June 26 - No
Now there is no condemnation to me who is in Christ Jesus and who does not walk after the flesh but after the Spirit. Romans 8:1
We get told "no" a lot, don't we?
No pets. No progress. No dessert. No raise. No way.
Of course, it seems like the word "no" carries a negative connotation most of the time, doesn't it?
Until we start listening to God.
No more sorrow. No more pain. No death. No disease. No disappointment.
Forgot one...no condemnation. When we commit our lives to Christ, we receive the very best "no" in the history of the word "no."
No condemnation.
How does that strike you?
We get told "no" a lot, don't we?
No pets. No progress. No dessert. No raise. No way.
Of course, it seems like the word "no" carries a negative connotation most of the time, doesn't it?
Until we start listening to God.
No more sorrow. No more pain. No death. No disease. No disappointment.
Forgot one...no condemnation. When we commit our lives to Christ, we receive the very best "no" in the history of the word "no."
No condemnation.
How does that strike you?
Friday, June 25, 2010
June 25 - For
God, if You are for me, who can be against me? Romans 8:31
When I was a first grader, I was playing GI Joe's with a third grader from down the street. When it came time to leave, he stole several of my GI Joe things. Of course, I was powerless to do anything to get them back.
But my older brother wasn't. He was three years older than the thief and proceeded to go down the street and retreive my stolen items.
There are plenty of ways the analogy will break down, but one way it works is that we are in a war with evil in this world that we are completely overmatched in.
Until we play our trump card. God ultimately trumps evil.
It's the right side to be on.
How does this passage make you feel?
When I was a first grader, I was playing GI Joe's with a third grader from down the street. When it came time to leave, he stole several of my GI Joe things. Of course, I was powerless to do anything to get them back.
But my older brother wasn't. He was three years older than the thief and proceeded to go down the street and retreive my stolen items.
There are plenty of ways the analogy will break down, but one way it works is that we are in a war with evil in this world that we are completely overmatched in.
Until we play our trump card. God ultimately trumps evil.
It's the right side to be on.
How does this passage make you feel?
Thursday, June 24, 2010
June 24 - Exceed
God, You are able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that I ask or think, according to the power that works in me. Ephesians 3:20
We are all guilty of putting God in a box. As a matter of fact, there really is no way we cannot be guilty of it, since God is completely unfathomable to us. Any thought we might have about His power, His majesty, His grace or His love is completely insufficient to the reality of God.
So we put Him in a box.
The only question that is pertinent is how small is that box for each one of us?
What are the benefits of giving great effort to taking God out of the box in each of our lives?
We are all guilty of putting God in a box. As a matter of fact, there really is no way we cannot be guilty of it, since God is completely unfathomable to us. Any thought we might have about His power, His majesty, His grace or His love is completely insufficient to the reality of God.
So we put Him in a box.
The only question that is pertinent is how small is that box for each one of us?
What are the benefits of giving great effort to taking God out of the box in each of our lives?
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
June 23 - Workmanship
God, I am Your workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which You have before ordained that I should walk in them. Ephesians 2:10
One of the things every person struggles with in some way in their lifetime is purpose. Am I some random mistake who is walking the earth because two atoms collided by chance millions of years ago?
Am I the product of millions of years of evolution? Or is there a greater design involved in my life?
Was I created intentionally by a Greater Power with a specific purpose in mind?
If you believe God exists, then scripture promises that those who diligently seek Him will find Him.
It also promises that we are not some random being, but individually, specifically made for a purpose.
God created good works for us to do long before we took our first breath. And as we continue to seek Him, those works will continually be revealed to us.
We have a very definite and distinct purpose, not only collectively as God's creation, but also as individuals.
What are your thoughts about that promise?
One of the things every person struggles with in some way in their lifetime is purpose. Am I some random mistake who is walking the earth because two atoms collided by chance millions of years ago?
Am I the product of millions of years of evolution? Or is there a greater design involved in my life?
Was I created intentionally by a Greater Power with a specific purpose in mind?
If you believe God exists, then scripture promises that those who diligently seek Him will find Him.
It also promises that we are not some random being, but individually, specifically made for a purpose.
God created good works for us to do long before we took our first breath. And as we continue to seek Him, those works will continually be revealed to us.
We have a very definite and distinct purpose, not only collectively as God's creation, but also as individuals.
What are your thoughts about that promise?
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
June 22 - Give
I give and it will be given to me - good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will men give to me. For with the same measure I use, it shall be measured to me as well. Luke 6:38
We live in a selfish world. We see expensive cars with bumper stickers that say, "He who dies with the most toys wins." We hear people bring conversations back to themselves. We obsess about our appearance.
Yet God instructs us to live in the exact opposite way: selfless, as opposed to selfish.
This is where the blessings of life happen.
Joy is found in the giving, not the getting. Peace comes through putting others before ourselves. Contentment will never rest on us when we focus on ourselves 24-7.
And the greatest irony of all is Christ's promise that when we bless others instead of camping out on ourselves, we end up being blessed beyond measure.
How do you see this scripture playing out in your own life?
We live in a selfish world. We see expensive cars with bumper stickers that say, "He who dies with the most toys wins." We hear people bring conversations back to themselves. We obsess about our appearance.
Yet God instructs us to live in the exact opposite way: selfless, as opposed to selfish.
This is where the blessings of life happen.
Joy is found in the giving, not the getting. Peace comes through putting others before ourselves. Contentment will never rest on us when we focus on ourselves 24-7.
And the greatest irony of all is Christ's promise that when we bless others instead of camping out on ourselves, we end up being blessed beyond measure.
How do you see this scripture playing out in your own life?
Monday, June 21, 2010
June 21 - Dance
LORD, You have turned my mourning into dancing. You have put off my mourning clothes and surrounded me with gladness. Psalm 30:11
There are almost as many types of dancing as there are fingerprints. Everybody's style is distinct and the things that move each person are unique to that individual.
But one thing that is universal is that dancing almost always indicates happiness or joy. There are a few types of dances that are laments, but the overwhelming majority come out of a happy or joyful heart.
When this world afflicts us with the evil that is so prevalent, it often brings us to mourning.
David was a man who experienced both ends of the spectrum. But he had a deep and profound undersdtanding of what God preferred for us - dancing over mourning.
What does this tell us about God?
There are almost as many types of dancing as there are fingerprints. Everybody's style is distinct and the things that move each person are unique to that individual.
But one thing that is universal is that dancing almost always indicates happiness or joy. There are a few types of dances that are laments, but the overwhelming majority come out of a happy or joyful heart.
When this world afflicts us with the evil that is so prevalent, it often brings us to mourning.
David was a man who experienced both ends of the spectrum. But he had a deep and profound undersdtanding of what God preferred for us - dancing over mourning.
What does this tell us about God?
Sunday, June 20, 2010
June 20 - Abide
If I abide in Christ and His words abide in me, I shall ask whatever I wish and it shall be done for me. John 15:7
Abide. That means to remain. Christ wants us to remain in Him.
Our instruction could have been to go to church, tithe, don't use foul language, be nice and put a fish sticker our cars.
Do you know why it instead is to abide in Christ, to remain in Christ?
Because He wants a relationship with us far more than He wants our rituals. He wants our actions to arise out of our love for Him, not our fear of Him.
Bill Perkins, author of Six Rules Every Man Must Break, says that if His words are to abide in us, that means the more we read them, the more they shape our thinking. The more they shape our thinking, the more they shape our emotions. The more they shape our emotions, the more they direct our behavior.
What are your thoughts about abiding in Christ?
Abide. That means to remain. Christ wants us to remain in Him.
Our instruction could have been to go to church, tithe, don't use foul language, be nice and put a fish sticker our cars.
Do you know why it instead is to abide in Christ, to remain in Christ?
Because He wants a relationship with us far more than He wants our rituals. He wants our actions to arise out of our love for Him, not our fear of Him.
Bill Perkins, author of Six Rules Every Man Must Break, says that if His words are to abide in us, that means the more we read them, the more they shape our thinking. The more they shape our thinking, the more they shape our emotions. The more they shape our emotions, the more they direct our behavior.
What are your thoughts about abiding in Christ?
Saturday, June 19, 2010
June 19 - Care
I cast all my care upon You, God, for You care for me. 1 Peter 5:7
Recently, I was reading a story about the life of John Wooden, UCLA's legendary basketball coach. He was truly an extraordinary man. Just about unanimously considered the greatest basketball coach to ever live, he was also an extremely principled, humble and kind man. He was also a committed believer in Christ.
His greatest acts of devotion on earth, though, were directed toward his wife. He continued to write her love letters every month after her death until he passed on 25 years later. His love and care for her were as powerful a testimonial of his life and his faith as the way he conducted himself in the public eye.
God promises us that cares for us. And look at where that care comes in the equation: first. He doesn't care for us when we care for Him or because we care for Him. He cares for us before we care for Him. And He cares for us whether or not we cast our cares on Him or not.
That is an incredible assurance of security in a world that has precious little of it.
How does that promise strike you?
Recently, I was reading a story about the life of John Wooden, UCLA's legendary basketball coach. He was truly an extraordinary man. Just about unanimously considered the greatest basketball coach to ever live, he was also an extremely principled, humble and kind man. He was also a committed believer in Christ.
His greatest acts of devotion on earth, though, were directed toward his wife. He continued to write her love letters every month after her death until he passed on 25 years later. His love and care for her were as powerful a testimonial of his life and his faith as the way he conducted himself in the public eye.
God promises us that cares for us. And look at where that care comes in the equation: first. He doesn't care for us when we care for Him or because we care for Him. He cares for us before we care for Him. And He cares for us whether or not we cast our cares on Him or not.
That is an incredible assurance of security in a world that has precious little of it.
How does that promise strike you?
Friday, June 18, 2010
June 18 - Perfection
Above all these things, I will put on love, which is the bond of perfection. Colossians 3:14
Dating back 130 years, there have only been 20 perfect games thrown by pitchers in Major League Baseball. Yet, in this young season, there have already been two and one more that a referee's blown call ruined at the last minute.
Perfection. Rarely attained at any level in anything.
Yet in God's economy, there is perfection. It is called love.
And it is more important than any so-called perfection attained in any other facet of life.
Why do you think love is such a critical issue in all of humanity? Why is it such a critical issue for you?
Dating back 130 years, there have only been 20 perfect games thrown by pitchers in Major League Baseball. Yet, in this young season, there have already been two and one more that a referee's blown call ruined at the last minute.
Perfection. Rarely attained at any level in anything.
Yet in God's economy, there is perfection. It is called love.
And it is more important than any so-called perfection attained in any other facet of life.
Why do you think love is such a critical issue in all of humanity? Why is it such a critical issue for you?
Thursday, June 17, 2010
June 17 - Promise
Christ has redeemed me from the curse of the law, being made a curse for me, for it is written, "Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree." He did this so that the blessing of Abraham might come on me through Jesus Christ, that I might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith. Galatians 3:13-14
Every weekend, at church buildings all over the world, people make promises to each other. New head coaches hold press conferences and promise to bring a championship to their new school or franchise. Companies promise better service than their competitors.
Promises fly around in all walks of life about countless topics. But one thing is certain when promises are made: some of them are going to be broken. It is our fallen nature, our selfish focus.
Everyone is going to break a promise at one point or another.
Except our Creator.
What is this passage saying to you about God's promise to you?
Every weekend, at church buildings all over the world, people make promises to each other. New head coaches hold press conferences and promise to bring a championship to their new school or franchise. Companies promise better service than their competitors.
Promises fly around in all walks of life about countless topics. But one thing is certain when promises are made: some of them are going to be broken. It is our fallen nature, our selfish focus.
Everyone is going to break a promise at one point or another.
Except our Creator.
What is this passage saying to you about God's promise to you?
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
June 16 - Supply
You are my God and You shall supply all my need according to your riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19
So Apple and AT&T's servers went down yesterday shortly after pre-ordering opened for the new iPhone 4. They were swamped with pre-orders early and couldn't keep up with the demand.
Economics is all about supply and demand. And even though Apple has to be concerned on the one hand because they didn't plan well enough, they have to be thrilled on the other hand because the demand is so high for their product.
In the spiritual realm, supply and demand take on a whole new meaning. God never has to worry about running out on the supply side. He never has to wonder if He is prepared to take care of us. His promise to supply all our needs is never-ending.
Our issue is on the demand side.
What do you think about that?
So Apple and AT&T's servers went down yesterday shortly after pre-ordering opened for the new iPhone 4. They were swamped with pre-orders early and couldn't keep up with the demand.
Economics is all about supply and demand. And even though Apple has to be concerned on the one hand because they didn't plan well enough, they have to be thrilled on the other hand because the demand is so high for their product.
In the spiritual realm, supply and demand take on a whole new meaning. God never has to worry about running out on the supply side. He never has to wonder if He is prepared to take care of us. His promise to supply all our needs is never-ending.
Our issue is on the demand side.
What do you think about that?
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
June 15 - Presence
LORD, You will show me the path of life. In your presence is fullness of joy. At your right hand there are pleasures forever. Psalm 16:11
We clamor to be in the presence of what we consider to be greatness. We scramble to try to shake the hand of a star athlete. We stand in line for hours to get the autograph of a movie star. We take pictures with our arm around a rock star, looking like we're old friends. Or something.
Yet, God promises His presence will bring us far greater things in life than a fleeting thrill of being close to someone famous.
His presence brings joy and life.
We dare not trade an imitation of royalty for the real thing.
Or we will miss everything that is truly important.
What reaction do you have to this scripture?
We clamor to be in the presence of what we consider to be greatness. We scramble to try to shake the hand of a star athlete. We stand in line for hours to get the autograph of a movie star. We take pictures with our arm around a rock star, looking like we're old friends. Or something.
Yet, God promises His presence will bring us far greater things in life than a fleeting thrill of being close to someone famous.
His presence brings joy and life.
We dare not trade an imitation of royalty for the real thing.
Or we will miss everything that is truly important.
What reaction do you have to this scripture?
Monday, June 14, 2010
June 14 - Mind
You will keep me in perfect peace whose mind is fixed on You, because I trust in You. Isaiah 26:3
In the old days of Saturday Night Live, one of the jokes that got a big response was a play on the then-popular commercial whose catch phrase was "A mind is a terrible thing to waste." Saturday Night Live's spoof simply said "A mind is a terrible thing."
Well, the truth is...it can be.
When we allow our mind to wander to destructive or malicious thoughts; and let's be honest, it is all too easy to let that happen, a mind can be a terrible thing. It can conjure up all kinds of evil and go to places that we might not have believed we could go.
The good news is the mind can be trained. Just like we train our physical bodies, we can likewise train our minds.
God asks that we train our minds to be fixed on Him because the benefits far outweigh anything we could invest in on this earth.
What is this passage saying to you?
In the old days of Saturday Night Live, one of the jokes that got a big response was a play on the then-popular commercial whose catch phrase was "A mind is a terrible thing to waste." Saturday Night Live's spoof simply said "A mind is a terrible thing."
Well, the truth is...it can be.
When we allow our mind to wander to destructive or malicious thoughts; and let's be honest, it is all too easy to let that happen, a mind can be a terrible thing. It can conjure up all kinds of evil and go to places that we might not have believed we could go.
The good news is the mind can be trained. Just like we train our physical bodies, we can likewise train our minds.
God asks that we train our minds to be fixed on Him because the benefits far outweigh anything we could invest in on this earth.
What is this passage saying to you?
Sunday, June 13, 2010
June 13 - You
LORD, You are my light and my salvation. Whom shall I fear? You are the strength of my life. Of whom shall I be afraid? Psalm 27:1
I was looking on Facebook recently and came to a startling conclusion: if the person who writes a comment by a picture is also in the picture, about two thirds of those comments make reference to themselves and how the writer looks in the photo.
Man, it is hard to not focus on ourselves, isn't it? We do it instinctively. We're most often not even aware of it because it has become second nature to us.
Yet God calls us to not be the center of our universe. He says if we'll put Him in that role and live for Him instead of ourselves, He'll reward us by helping us not be afraid, regardless of the uncertainty around us.
Describe your personal reaction to that passage.
I was looking on Facebook recently and came to a startling conclusion: if the person who writes a comment by a picture is also in the picture, about two thirds of those comments make reference to themselves and how the writer looks in the photo.
Man, it is hard to not focus on ourselves, isn't it? We do it instinctively. We're most often not even aware of it because it has become second nature to us.
Yet God calls us to not be the center of our universe. He says if we'll put Him in that role and live for Him instead of ourselves, He'll reward us by helping us not be afraid, regardless of the uncertainty around us.
Describe your personal reaction to that passage.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
June 12 - Confident
I am confident of this very thing, that you who have begun a good work in me will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ. Philippians 1:6
Confidence.
What a fine line there sometimes is between confidence and arrogance.
This world often applauds arrogance. Athletes sometimes beat their chest when they make a good play. Musicians sometimes stand and soak in the applause. Politicians sometimes disregard what is right for what is personal gain. Ministers sometimes start to think it is about them.
In all cases, arrogance is despicable in God's eyes.
So how can you tell what is confidence versus what is arrogance?
Confidence often has roots in something other than the individual.
Recently departed UCLA basketball coach John Wooden had confidence in the concept of team success as opposed to individual glory and it took him to 12 national championships.
John The Baptist had confidence in his calling, as opposed to the instructions of others and it took him to a premature death.
So what can we be confident in?
That God has begun a good work in you. You didn't initiate it or create it.
God did.
What are some of the good works God has called you to?
Confidence.
What a fine line there sometimes is between confidence and arrogance.
This world often applauds arrogance. Athletes sometimes beat their chest when they make a good play. Musicians sometimes stand and soak in the applause. Politicians sometimes disregard what is right for what is personal gain. Ministers sometimes start to think it is about them.
In all cases, arrogance is despicable in God's eyes.
So how can you tell what is confidence versus what is arrogance?
Confidence often has roots in something other than the individual.
Recently departed UCLA basketball coach John Wooden had confidence in the concept of team success as opposed to individual glory and it took him to 12 national championships.
John The Baptist had confidence in his calling, as opposed to the instructions of others and it took him to a premature death.
So what can we be confident in?
That God has begun a good work in you. You didn't initiate it or create it.
God did.
What are some of the good works God has called you to?
Friday, June 11, 2010
June 11 - Peace
Peace Jesus leaves with me, His peace He gives to me. He does not give to me as the world gives. I do not let my heart be troubled, nor do I let it be afraid. John 14:27
Since Cain murdered his brother, this world has not experienced complete peace. Sin not only ushered death into the world, but in doing so, it also removed peace. Since that time, there has always been man against man and very often, country against country.
Those things are unlikely to change until Jesus comes back.
But He promises a peace that is deeper and more important for those who are His.
Inner peace. Freedom from anxiety. A peace that endures, regardless of what happens around us. Is this a promise of the deliverance from pain and suffering?
Not at all.
It is a promise of His love and care for us in the middle of suffering. A promise that He will never leave us. A promise made to His followers of a future beyond our wildest dreams.
What is your reaction to this promise?
Since Cain murdered his brother, this world has not experienced complete peace. Sin not only ushered death into the world, but in doing so, it also removed peace. Since that time, there has always been man against man and very often, country against country.
Those things are unlikely to change until Jesus comes back.
But He promises a peace that is deeper and more important for those who are His.
Inner peace. Freedom from anxiety. A peace that endures, regardless of what happens around us. Is this a promise of the deliverance from pain and suffering?
Not at all.
It is a promise of His love and care for us in the middle of suffering. A promise that He will never leave us. A promise made to His followers of a future beyond our wildest dreams.
What is your reaction to this promise?
Thursday, June 10, 2010
June 10 - Power
Your divine power has given me all things that pertain to life and godliness. 2 Peter 1:3
Donald Trump. Michael Jordan. Steven Jobs. James Cameron. Oprah.
These people all have several things in common, but one of the most envied is power. Sure, they're all rich, but even more than that, they are considered powerful.
Power is one of those things we can't see, but can instinctively sense in people. It is feared, it is desired.
And it is elusive.
Some people are just born into it, like the royal family. Some people earn their way into it through sports or the arts. But make no mistake: above all, it is temporary.
That's because there is only one source of power that is everlasting. And that power source gives us what we truly need. Not money, not fame. And not power.
Life. Godliness.
Period.
What seems profound to you about this passage?
Donald Trump. Michael Jordan. Steven Jobs. James Cameron. Oprah.
These people all have several things in common, but one of the most envied is power. Sure, they're all rich, but even more than that, they are considered powerful.
Power is one of those things we can't see, but can instinctively sense in people. It is feared, it is desired.
And it is elusive.
Some people are just born into it, like the royal family. Some people earn their way into it through sports or the arts. But make no mistake: above all, it is temporary.
That's because there is only one source of power that is everlasting. And that power source gives us what we truly need. Not money, not fame. And not power.
Life. Godliness.
Period.
What seems profound to you about this passage?
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
June 9 - Will
This is the confidence I have in Christ: if I ask anything according to His will, He hears me; and if I know that he hears me, whatever I ask, I know that I have the petitions that I desire of Him. 1 John 5:14-15
You know how, when we were little kids in Sunday School, teachers would ask a question and we wouldn't know the answer, but we wanted to say something so bad, so we tried to figure out what they wanted to hear.
And most often, regardless of the question, the answer would either be "Jesus," "God," or "love." You've got to feel pretty good about one of those answers. No way it can be too far off, right?
This passage is troubling because of that same principle. The key to getting what we ask for is if we ask "according to His will."
O.k.
So how do we know His will?
Well, it seems sometimes like we're playing the same game I referred to above. Trying to throw out some things we know have got to be pretty close.
What are some things you believe would be within the will of God?
You know how, when we were little kids in Sunday School, teachers would ask a question and we wouldn't know the answer, but we wanted to say something so bad, so we tried to figure out what they wanted to hear.
And most often, regardless of the question, the answer would either be "Jesus," "God," or "love." You've got to feel pretty good about one of those answers. No way it can be too far off, right?
This passage is troubling because of that same principle. The key to getting what we ask for is if we ask "according to His will."
O.k.
So how do we know His will?
Well, it seems sometimes like we're playing the same game I referred to above. Trying to throw out some things we know have got to be pretty close.
What are some things you believe would be within the will of God?
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
June 8 - Benefits
Bless the LORD, O my soul, and do not forget His benefits. He forgives all my offenses; He heals all my diseases. Psalm 103:2-3
These are treacherous days in our world. Unemployment continues to affect literally billions of people on this planet. When we do land a job, one of the things that has become more and more important is the topic of benefits.
Is health insurance offered? Dental? Retirement? What used to be regarded as perks are now necessities.
Of course, our Creator offers the best benefits package by far.
Forgiveness. Healing.
We may die without insurance.
But we can't live without forgiveness and healing.
What jumps out at you in these verses?
These are treacherous days in our world. Unemployment continues to affect literally billions of people on this planet. When we do land a job, one of the things that has become more and more important is the topic of benefits.
Is health insurance offered? Dental? Retirement? What used to be regarded as perks are now necessities.
Of course, our Creator offers the best benefits package by far.
Forgiveness. Healing.
We may die without insurance.
But we can't live without forgiveness and healing.
What jumps out at you in these verses?
Monday, June 7, 2010
June 7 - Clean
If I confess my sins, You are faithful and just to forgive me of my sins and to cleanse me from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9
I love mowing the grass and working in the yard. It's one of those things you can do and look back on and see what you accomplished. And when I'm finished, I can't wait to get a shower and get all the dirt off of me. I like to be clean.
We all get dirty spiritually and we all like to be clean spiritually.
God tells us the spiritual shower is confession. When we humbly go to Him and confess our sin, He does what He does best: makes us clean.
What strikes you as deep about this verse?
I love mowing the grass and working in the yard. It's one of those things you can do and look back on and see what you accomplished. And when I'm finished, I can't wait to get a shower and get all the dirt off of me. I like to be clean.
We all get dirty spiritually and we all like to be clean spiritually.
God tells us the spiritual shower is confession. When we humbly go to Him and confess our sin, He does what He does best: makes us clean.
What strikes you as deep about this verse?
Sunday, June 6, 2010
June 6 - Security
I do not fear for You are with me. I am not dismayed for You are my God. You will strengthen me; yes, You will help me; yes, You will uphold me with the right hand of Your righteousness. Isaiah 41:10
I've always been fascinated by locks. I've got a friend that is a locksmith. He can pick just about any lock you can put in front of him. Thank goodness he's one of the good guys! But the sober truth is that all guys who pick locks aren't good guys. Sometimes the bad guys can use those same skills to get into places they aren't welcome.
Isn't it fascinating that we put so much stock in security when it really is only a phantom? There is only one place to find true security in this world.
What does this passage say to you personally?
I've always been fascinated by locks. I've got a friend that is a locksmith. He can pick just about any lock you can put in front of him. Thank goodness he's one of the good guys! But the sober truth is that all guys who pick locks aren't good guys. Sometimes the bad guys can use those same skills to get into places they aren't welcome.
Isn't it fascinating that we put so much stock in security when it really is only a phantom? There is only one place to find true security in this world.
What does this passage say to you personally?
Saturday, June 5, 2010
June 5 - Deliverance
I sought You, Lord, and You heard me and delivered me from all my fears. Psalm 34:4
Relationships take work. That is a fact across all humanity. It also is a fact when we look at our relationship with God. We can't sit back and hope our relationship with our Creator will grow while we sleep or eat or work. It requires effort and discipline on our part. It requires that we be intentional.
But the payoff is huge. Bigger than huge. Bigger than words.
The payoff is deliverance.
What is profound to you about this passage?
Relationships take work. That is a fact across all humanity. It also is a fact when we look at our relationship with God. We can't sit back and hope our relationship with our Creator will grow while we sleep or eat or work. It requires effort and discipline on our part. It requires that we be intentional.
But the payoff is huge. Bigger than huge. Bigger than words.
The payoff is deliverance.
What is profound to you about this passage?
Friday, June 4, 2010
June 4 - Wisdom
If I lack wisdom, God, let me ask you for it. You give liberally to me, and You do not reprimand me for asking. And it will be given to me. James 1:5
Here's a theme in scripture that we can't seem to get very far away from. If we are to live lives that please God; lives that are rich with joy and purpose, we will commit ourselves to seeking and applying God's wisdom in our lives at every turn.
There is far too much garbage in, garbage out in this world. The default in life is our fallen human nature. Sin. We don't have to work at it. It comes to us naturally.
On the other hand, wisdom is something we have to put significant effort into. "Get" wisdom, as Jane Gregory pointed out a few Sundays ago, is what we are instructed to do in Proverbs 23:23. It won't just jump on us if we stand still. We must pursue it.
How does this passage affect your thoughts and actions?
Here's a theme in scripture that we can't seem to get very far away from. If we are to live lives that please God; lives that are rich with joy and purpose, we will commit ourselves to seeking and applying God's wisdom in our lives at every turn.
There is far too much garbage in, garbage out in this world. The default in life is our fallen human nature. Sin. We don't have to work at it. It comes to us naturally.
On the other hand, wisdom is something we have to put significant effort into. "Get" wisdom, as Jane Gregory pointed out a few Sundays ago, is what we are instructed to do in Proverbs 23:23. It won't just jump on us if we stand still. We must pursue it.
How does this passage affect your thoughts and actions?
Thursday, June 3, 2010
June 3 - No fear
God, You have not given me the spirit of fear but of power, of love and of a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7
Fear.
Where does fear have its origin? In our mind. When we start to become afraid about something, it begins in our mind. Sometimes the object of our fear is real, but very often, it is imagined. Sometimes it is some thought we allow to burrow into our minds and we start to go down a path that is very unhealthy. Sometimes we make a home for our fear, building a case for it and rationalizing it.
Fear and faith are like oil and water. They cannot mix. Fear is choosing a path of sight and not a path of faith.
God doesn't want our imaginations to run away with us and take us to a place He never intended for us to go.
He wants us to have a sound mind.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
June 2 - Good
God, I know that all things work together for my good because I love You and am called according to Your purpose. Romans 8:28
One thing this passage doesn't say is all things are good for the believer. It says all things WORK TOGETHER for good.
So many times, this verse is used to try to explain that when a person accepts Christ, their life will be good. Ultimately, that is true, of course, but in the meantime, God promises that all will be well…eventually. Hardship will come, but God will work even bad things for good in the lives of the faithful.
What strikes you as powerful in this passage?
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
June 1 - Saved
God, you did not send Your Son into the world to condemn me, but so that through Him, I might be saved. John 3:17
Bottom line truth - God had one purpose for sending Jesus to the world. To save you and to save me.
What thoughts does that bring to mind?
NEW FOR JUNE!! Affirmations from God's Word
Did you know that God has a much greater purpose for us than to cram a bunch of facts about Him into our heads? For centuries, at least dating back to when Jesus walked this earth, we have often confused knowledge of God for relationship with God. Like memorizing a bunch of facts about God would somehow fulfill His purpose for us.
Think about this: if someone you didn't know approached you and told you they knew your favorite color, your favorite restaurant, your favorite sports team and your favorite music, would it mean they really knew you? Would it mean they had a relationship with you?
Of course not. As a matter of fact, it would probably seem a little stalkerish.
Relationship isn't knowing facts about someone, it is KNOWING them. Like you know your spouse. Like you know your best friend. It's knowing how they think. It's knowing what they like. It's knowing what is important to them. It's knowing what makes them laugh and what makes them cry.
Since God's relationship with people was damaged in the Garden of Eden, He has been about one thing: reconciliation. He wants that relationship back. With you. Personally. God already knows everything about you. Not just facts, but much more.
Like the number of hairs on your head. Like the thoughts you think. Like the steps you take.
So when He gave us scripture, His desire was that we would know Him too. To restore that relationship that was lost. To let you know that YOU are His favorite color, YOU are His favorite restaurant, YOU are His favorite sports team and YOU are His favorite music.
He has tunnel vision for YOU. His never-ending love is directed toward YOU. Personally.
Scripture is God's heart, given to us.
So beginning today, June 1, we will post a scripture each day that God speaks to you individually. Read it, think about it, pray about it, repeat it throughout the day. Then write in the comments on the blog what God is saying to you through that passage.
The next post has the scripture for Day 1.
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