Isaiah 40:6-8 New Living Translation (NLT)
6 A voice said, “Shout!”
I asked, “What should I shout?”
“Shout that people are like the grass.
Their beauty fades as quickly
as the flowers in a field.
7 The grass withers and the flowers fade
beneath the breath of the Lord.
And so it is with people.
8 The grass withers and the flowers fade,
but the word of our God stands forever.”
Thursday, May 24, 2018
Wednesday, May 23, 2018
Memorial Day - Remembering Their Sacrifice
Please remember to keep our service men and women in your prayers this week. As we approach, Memorial Day on Monday, May 28th, we must not only on this day but also on every day thank our men and women in uniform for their service and to remember those who gave "the last full measure of devotion."It is because of their sacrifice and the sacrifice made by their families that we enjoy the freedom to worship without fear.
Daily Word of God - Matthew 24:4-14
Matthew 24:4-14 New Living Translation (NLT)
4 Jesus told them, “Don’t let anyone mislead you, 5 for many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am the Messiah.’ They will deceive many. 6 And you will hear of wars and threats of wars, but don’t panic. Yes, these things must take place, but the end won’t follow immediately. 7 Nation will go to war against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in many parts of the world. 8 But all this is only the first of the birth pains, with more to come.
9 “Then you will be arrested, persecuted, and killed. You will be hated all over the world because you are my followers.[a] 10 And many will turn away from me and betray and hate each other. 11 And many false prophets will appear and will deceive many people. 12 Sin will be rampant everywhere, and the love of many will grow cold. 13 But the one who endures to the end will be saved. 14 And the Good News about the Kingdom will be preached throughout the whole world, so that all nations[b] will hear it; and then the end will come.
Footnotes:
24:9 Greek on account of my name.
24:14 Or all peoples.
4 Jesus told them, “Don’t let anyone mislead you, 5 for many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am the Messiah.’ They will deceive many. 6 And you will hear of wars and threats of wars, but don’t panic. Yes, these things must take place, but the end won’t follow immediately. 7 Nation will go to war against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in many parts of the world. 8 But all this is only the first of the birth pains, with more to come.
9 “Then you will be arrested, persecuted, and killed. You will be hated all over the world because you are my followers.[a] 10 And many will turn away from me and betray and hate each other. 11 And many false prophets will appear and will deceive many people. 12 Sin will be rampant everywhere, and the love of many will grow cold. 13 But the one who endures to the end will be saved. 14 And the Good News about the Kingdom will be preached throughout the whole world, so that all nations[b] will hear it; and then the end will come.
Footnotes:
24:9 Greek on account of my name.
24:14 Or all peoples.
Mid-Week Message - Wrinkled Hearts
"He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds." Psalm 147:3 (NIV)
Let's face it. Life can be really difficult. From the time of conception an endless number of things can go wrong. Sometimes I wonder how any of us ever grow up. No matter how many safeguards are put in place, we still can be hurt or injured. Illness comes. Relationships dissolve. Jobs are taken away. Finances fail. The sunshine and rain both fall on each life no matter whether we are good or evil. We just have to do the best we can with what we have. And thank the Lord above, if we have accepted Jesus as our Savior, we have Him to call upon.
We each have a story. Mine includes bullying, molestation, child abuse, rejection, and ridicule, to name just a few of the heartaches. I have also lost both parents, been through the severe illness of my spouse and witnessed my only child grieving over the loss of her best friend at a time in her life when that just shouldn't be happening yet. You have a story too. Yours may very well include tragedies that I can't even conceive of. Maybe infertility, abandonment, terminal illnesses or the loss of a child. Whatever you have been through has broken your heart in ways that are indescribable, just as mine has been broken.
Through the years that I was privileged to work in private schools, I had several opportunities to talk to the students about how easily hearts can be permanently damaged. I would use a pristine piece of paper. No folds, marks or wrinkles. Then as I would mention different hurts that could take place, I would crease the paper until finally we had talked about so many that the paper was almost in pieces. No matter how we tried to smooth it back out, the evidence of the folds and tears remained. That represented the memories of the painful times. Memories that may never be erased.
But I have great news! Scripture assures us that our Father in Heaven is well aware of everything we go through, whether happy or painful. Not only are we promised that He will make something good out of them but we are soothed by the sureness of His power to heal our broken hearts and bind up our wounds. He can take our damaged hearts and make them new again. We may still have the memories, but by His grace and mercy, we can feel joy once again.
I pray that your week will be spent in His arms. Whatever you have gone through in the past, or will go through in the future, His love is greater. As we heal together, I ask Him to bless you and hold us all close.
We each have a story. Mine includes bullying, molestation, child abuse, rejection, and ridicule, to name just a few of the heartaches. I have also lost both parents, been through the severe illness of my spouse and witnessed my only child grieving over the loss of her best friend at a time in her life when that just shouldn't be happening yet. You have a story too. Yours may very well include tragedies that I can't even conceive of. Maybe infertility, abandonment, terminal illnesses or the loss of a child. Whatever you have been through has broken your heart in ways that are indescribable, just as mine has been broken.
Through the years that I was privileged to work in private schools, I had several opportunities to talk to the students about how easily hearts can be permanently damaged. I would use a pristine piece of paper. No folds, marks or wrinkles. Then as I would mention different hurts that could take place, I would crease the paper until finally we had talked about so many that the paper was almost in pieces. No matter how we tried to smooth it back out, the evidence of the folds and tears remained. That represented the memories of the painful times. Memories that may never be erased.
But I have great news! Scripture assures us that our Father in Heaven is well aware of everything we go through, whether happy or painful. Not only are we promised that He will make something good out of them but we are soothed by the sureness of His power to heal our broken hearts and bind up our wounds. He can take our damaged hearts and make them new again. We may still have the memories, but by His grace and mercy, we can feel joy once again.
I pray that your week will be spent in His arms. Whatever you have gone through in the past, or will go through in the future, His love is greater. As we heal together, I ask Him to bless you and hold us all close.
Daily Word of God - Jeremiah 29:10-14
Jeremiah 29:10-14 New Living Translation (NLT)
10 This is what the Lord says: “You will be in Babylon for seventy years. But then I will come and do for you all the good things I have promised, and I will bring you home again. 11 For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. 12 In those days when you pray, I will listen. 13 If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me. 14 I will be found by you,” says the Lord. “I will end your captivity and restore your fortunes. I will gather you out of the nations where I sent you and will bring you home again to your own land.”
10 This is what the Lord says: “You will be in Babylon for seventy years. But then I will come and do for you all the good things I have promised, and I will bring you home again. 11 For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. 12 In those days when you pray, I will listen. 13 If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me. 14 I will be found by you,” says the Lord. “I will end your captivity and restore your fortunes. I will gather you out of the nations where I sent you and will bring you home again to your own land.”
Tuesday, May 22, 2018
Daily Word of God - 1 Chronicles 28:17-21
1 Chronicles 28:17-21 New Living Translation (NLT)
17 David also designated the amount of gold for the solid gold meat hooks used to handle the sacrificial meat and for the basins, pitchers, and dishes, as well as the amount of silver for every dish. 18 He designated the amount of refined gold for the altar of incense. Finally, he gave him a plan for the Lord’s “chariot”—the gold cherubim[a] whose wings were stretched out over the Ark of the Lord’s Covenant. 19 “Every part of this plan,” David told Solomon, “was given to me in writing from the hand of the Lord.[b]”
20 Then David continued, “Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Don’t be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you. He will see to it that all the work related to the Temple of the Lord is finished correctly. 21 The various divisions of priests and Levites will serve in the Temple of God. Others with skills of every kind will volunteer, and the officials and the entire nation are at your command.”
Footnotes:
28:18 Hebrew for the gold cherub chariot.
28:19 Or was written under the direction of the Lord.
17 David also designated the amount of gold for the solid gold meat hooks used to handle the sacrificial meat and for the basins, pitchers, and dishes, as well as the amount of silver for every dish. 18 He designated the amount of refined gold for the altar of incense. Finally, he gave him a plan for the Lord’s “chariot”—the gold cherubim[a] whose wings were stretched out over the Ark of the Lord’s Covenant. 19 “Every part of this plan,” David told Solomon, “was given to me in writing from the hand of the Lord.[b]”
20 Then David continued, “Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Don’t be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you. He will see to it that all the work related to the Temple of the Lord is finished correctly. 21 The various divisions of priests and Levites will serve in the Temple of God. Others with skills of every kind will volunteer, and the officials and the entire nation are at your command.”
Footnotes:
28:18 Hebrew for the gold cherub chariot.
28:19 Or was written under the direction of the Lord.
Daily Word of God - Psalm 100
Psalm 100 New Living Translation (NLT)
Psalm 100
A psalm of thanksgiving.
1 Shout with joy to the Lord, all the earth!
2 Worship the Lord with gladness.
Come before him, singing with joy.
3 Acknowledge that the Lord is God!
He made us, and we are his.[a]
We are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving;
go into his courts with praise.
Give thanks to him and praise his name.
5 For the Lord is good.
His unfailing love continues forever,
and his faithfulness continues to each generation.
Footnotes:
100:3 As in an alternate reading in the Masoretic Text; the other alternate and some ancient versions read and not we ourselves.
Psalm 100
A psalm of thanksgiving.
1 Shout with joy to the Lord, all the earth!
2 Worship the Lord with gladness.
Come before him, singing with joy.
3 Acknowledge that the Lord is God!
He made us, and we are his.[a]
We are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving;
go into his courts with praise.
Give thanks to him and praise his name.
5 For the Lord is good.
His unfailing love continues forever,
and his faithfulness continues to each generation.
Footnotes:
100:3 As in an alternate reading in the Masoretic Text; the other alternate and some ancient versions read and not we ourselves.
Monday, May 21, 2018
Daily Word of God - 1 Corinthians 15:55-57
1 Corinthians 15:54-57 New Living Translation (NLT)
54 Then, when our dying bodies have been transformed into bodies that will never die,[a] this Scripture will be fulfilled:
“Death is swallowed up in victory.[b]
55 O death, where is your victory?
O death, where is your sting?[c]”
56 For sin is the sting that results in death, and the law gives sin its power. 57 But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Footnotes:
15:54a Some manuscripts add and our mortal bodies have been transformed into immortal bodies.
15:54b Isa 25:8.
15:55 Hos 13:14 (Greek version).
54 Then, when our dying bodies have been transformed into bodies that will never die,[a] this Scripture will be fulfilled:
“Death is swallowed up in victory.[b]
55 O death, where is your victory?
O death, where is your sting?[c]”
56 For sin is the sting that results in death, and the law gives sin its power. 57 But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Footnotes:
15:54a Some manuscripts add and our mortal bodies have been transformed into immortal bodies.
15:54b Isa 25:8.
15:55 Hos 13:14 (Greek version).
Daily Word of God - Deuteronomy 31:7-8
Deuteronomy 31:7-8 New Living Translation (NLT)
7 Then Moses called for Joshua, and as all Israel watched, he said to him, “Be strong and courageous! For you will lead these people into the land that the Lord swore to their ancestors he would give them. You are the one who will divide it among them as their grants of land. 8 Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; he will neither fail you nor abandon you.”
7 Then Moses called for Joshua, and as all Israel watched, he said to him, “Be strong and courageous! For you will lead these people into the land that the Lord swore to their ancestors he would give them. You are the one who will divide it among them as their grants of land. 8 Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; he will neither fail you nor abandon you.”
Sunday, May 20, 2018
Daily Word of God - Proverbs 15:1
Proverbs 15:1 New Living Translation (NLT)
1 A gentle answer deflects anger,
but harsh words make tempers flare.
1 A gentle answer deflects anger,
but harsh words make tempers flare.
Sunday Praise & Worship Message - Living a Life of Love
Earlier last week, I had been reading Paul’s Letter to the Ephesians. The one chapter that stood out to me was chapter 5. Reading from the New Living Translation, verse 1 captures the essence of what it means to be a Christian. The first few words of that verse crystallize our purpose in our spirit life. He writes, “Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children.” It is really very simple with God and the teachings of His son, Christ Jesus, regarding our purpose in life is very clear. We are to do only those things that He expects His children to do. Paul goes through an entire list of things that should be avoided. Things like sexual immorality, impurity, or greed should be avoided by all. Paul goes on in verse 4, “Obscene stories, foolish talk, and coarse jokes—these are not for you. Instead, let there be thankfulness to God.”
Paul’s words struck a chord in my heart especially in verse 2. Paul writes, “Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God.” We are not only to be thankful in all things but we are also to live a life filled with love. That love is more than the physical. What we are to show the world of darkness is that same love that Christ revealed to us when we accepted him as our personal Savior and Lord. By offering himself as a sacrifice, he showed us the ultimate form of love. It is a perfect love that God finds more pleasing than all the tithes, sacrifices or offerings that could be made.
In 1 John chapter 4, John writes a few short sentences that tell us the exact nature of God. Starting with verse 7, “7 Dear friends, let us continue to love one another, for love comes from God. Anyone who loves is a child of God and knows God. 8 But anyone who does not love does not know God, for God is love. 9 God showed how much he loved us by sending his one and only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through him. 10 This is real love—not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins.” This truly is real love. God gave us His one and only Son to redeem us and show us that a perfect love can only come from God.
Looking at Paul’s letter and what John has written we see the purpose of our lives. We are to imitate God by showing the world the perfect love that God has given that it needs to accept. As we continue to serve God, we gain a better understanding of how we should serve God. We are not only to love and worship Him but we must also love our neighbors and even our enemies. I know that this is a very difficult thing to do especially when we see the violence that man is capable of. Last week we saw another school shooting in Texas. We saw news stories about stabbings in France. It would be so easy for us to turn our backs and try to ignore all those who live in darkness and only love those who are deserving of love.
Who is to say who is deserving of God’s love? Are we to judge the hearts of those and determine which ones should be loved and which ones should be rejected? Remember Jesus came into this world not to judge it, but, rather to save it. He did not come to force the world to accept salvation. He came into the world to show the way to salvation and that way was through him and him alone. His gospel is peace and his message is love. That is what we need to always remember when we see the horror that man is capable of. We must work in the fields to show the world that love and not hate is the only way back to the Father.
But, what has happened to us as Christians? We have not only judged who is deserving of God’s and our love but we have also allowed materialism to become the master of our lives. We have moved away from God and His love and fallen in love with worldly things. The perfect love that we should be imitating and showing the world has turned into a love for those things of the world. We have fallen prey to the trappings of excess. We desire more and more and bigger and bigger. We want bigger homes, cars, boats and whatever else to show the world that we have all that we want and need.
The interesting thing is that the desire for what the world has to offer is insatiable. This desire and love for the worldly things can never be satiated and it will continue to consume us. Instead of loving God and showing the world that love by loving those around us, we show the world that our love and master is of this world. Looking back to Paul’s letter to the church at Ephesus, he warns them and, by the same words us as well, that we should reject greed. In fact, looking at verse 5, Paul writes, “You can be sure that no immoral, impure, or greedy person will inherit the Kingdom of Christ and of God. For a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world.”
A greedy person is an idolater and worships only those things of the world. That person is incapable of God’s love and only has love for the trappings of excess and those things of this world. When we start down this path, our love changes from a pure love and evolves into a love only this world can understand. We no longer live a life of love. We live a life devoted to love of the material things this world has to offer. We are no longer capable of demonstrating the love of God and understanding that virtue of perfect love. By the same token, we are incapable of loving those around us and we start to judge just who is worthy of our love. This is not living God’s will in our life and it will lead to trouble.
Let us look at Proverbs as our guide. Reading Proverbs chapter 15 verse 16, “Better to have little, with fear for the Lord, than to have great treasure and inner turmoil.” By maintaining our relationship with the Lord, we are able to live a life of love. We should work at not falling prey to the desires and wants of this world and look only to God. By looking to God, we serve Him by loving and worshiping Him. To show Him that we fully understand His will in our lives and the teachings of His son, we are to love and care for one another. Looking to the Book of Acts, we see the people of the early church and behold love in action. Let us look at Acts 2:44-45. “44 And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. 45 They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need.” Each sold their worldly goods and shared the money with those in need. Once again, we see the example of God’s love at work. We should love our neighbors and help them in times of need. We should live a life of love and abstain from the desires and wants of this world. We should not judge those around us and determine who is worthy of love and help. We should live a life like Christ who is the perfecter of our faith and the example for our lives.
When we do all these things, we truly are imitators of God’s love and we show the world that true love is more than greed or trappings of excess. Those things will lead to trouble and turmoil. God’s way will lead to love and the fulfillment of His will in our lives. If everyone were to do those things, we would certainly live in a world where love reigns supreme as the sign of God and His love for the world. He loved the world so much that He gave us His son as our sacrifice so that we may have a life abundant and free of the bonds of sin. When we do these things, we can rest assured in His love and stand firm in His grace.
May the Lord bless you and protect you. May the Lord smile on you and be gracious to you. May the Lord show you his favor and give you his peace.
~ Numbers 6:24-26 New Living Translation (NLT)
Daily Word of God - 2 Timothy 1:5-7
2 Timothy 1:5-7 New Living Translation (NLT)
5 I remember your genuine faith, for you share the faith that first filled your grandmother Lois and your mother, Eunice. And I know that same faith continues strong in you. 6 This is why I remind you to fan into flames the spiritual gift God gave you when I laid my hands on you. 7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.
5 I remember your genuine faith, for you share the faith that first filled your grandmother Lois and your mother, Eunice. And I know that same faith continues strong in you. 6 This is why I remind you to fan into flames the spiritual gift God gave you when I laid my hands on you. 7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.
Saturday, May 19, 2018
Daily Word of God - Psalm 94:16-19
Psalm 94:16-19 New Living Translation (NLT)
16 Who will protect me from the wicked?
Who will stand up for me against evildoers?
17 Unless the Lord had helped me,
I would soon have settled in the silence of the grave.
18 I cried out, “I am slipping!”
but your unfailing love, O Lord, supported me.
19 When doubts filled my mind,
your comfort gave me renewed hope and cheer.
16 Who will protect me from the wicked?
Who will stand up for me against evildoers?
17 Unless the Lord had helped me,
I would soon have settled in the silence of the grave.
18 I cried out, “I am slipping!”
but your unfailing love, O Lord, supported me.
19 When doubts filled my mind,
your comfort gave me renewed hope and cheer.
Daily Word of God - 1 Corinthians 13:11-12
1 Corinthians 13:11-12 New Living Translation (NLT)
11 When I was a child, I spoke and thought and reasoned as a child. But when I grew up, I put away childish things. 12 Now we see things imperfectly, like puzzling reflections in a mirror, but then we will see everything with perfect clarity. All that I know now is partial and incomplete, but then I will know everything completely, just as God now knows me completely.
11 When I was a child, I spoke and thought and reasoned as a child. But when I grew up, I put away childish things. 12 Now we see things imperfectly, like puzzling reflections in a mirror, but then we will see everything with perfect clarity. All that I know now is partial and incomplete, but then I will know everything completely, just as God now knows me completely.
Friday, May 18, 2018
Daily Word of God - James 5:16-18
James 5:16-18 New Living Translation (NLT)
16 Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results. 17 Elijah was as human as we are, and yet when he prayed earnestly that no rain would fall, none fell for three and a half years! 18 Then, when he prayed again, the sky sent down rain and the earth began to yield its crops.
16 Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results. 17 Elijah was as human as we are, and yet when he prayed earnestly that no rain would fall, none fell for three and a half years! 18 Then, when he prayed again, the sky sent down rain and the earth began to yield its crops.
Daily Word of God - John 16:31-33
John 16:31-33 New Living Translation (NLT)
31 Jesus asked, “Do you finally believe? 32 But the time is coming—indeed it’s here now—when you will be scattered, each one going his own way, leaving me alone. Yet I am not alone because the Father is with me. 33 I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”
31 Jesus asked, “Do you finally believe? 32 But the time is coming—indeed it’s here now—when you will be scattered, each one going his own way, leaving me alone. Yet I am not alone because the Father is with me. 33 I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”
Thursday, May 17, 2018
Daily Word of God - Colossians 3:16-17
Colossians 3:16-17 New Living Translation (NLT)
16 Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives. Teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom he gives. Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts. 17 And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father.
16 Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives. Teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom he gives. Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts. 17 And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father.
Daily Word of God - Deuteronomy 14:2
Deuteronomy 14:2 New Living Translation (NLT)
2 You have been set apart as holy to the Lord your God, and he has chosen you from all the nations of the earth to be his own special treasure.
2 You have been set apart as holy to the Lord your God, and he has chosen you from all the nations of the earth to be his own special treasure.
Wednesday, May 16, 2018
Daily Word of God - James 1:19-21
James 1:19-21 New Living Translation (NLT)
19 Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. 20 Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires. 21 So get rid of all the filth and evil in your lives, and humbly accept the word God has planted in your hearts, for it has the power to save your souls.
19 Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. 20 Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires. 21 So get rid of all the filth and evil in your lives, and humbly accept the word God has planted in your hearts, for it has the power to save your souls.
Mid-Week Message - Honor Them
"Honor (respect, obey, care for) your father and your mother, so that your days may be prolonged in the land the Lord your God gives you." Exodus 20:12 (AMP)
Mother's Day 2018 has come and gone. Hopefully, everyone took the opportunity to express appreciation and love for the women in our lives who raised us and saw us through all the trials of childhood. My mother has passed on and I missed sending her flowers, choosing a card and telling her that I love her as I will miss doing something special for my father in June. I wish I had understood that my time with them was limited but I allowed myself to falsely believe that they would always be with me.
The commandment to honor our parents has always intrigued me. How interesting that the Lord thought it was important enough to etch it in stone on the tablets carried by Moses. Surely He knew that children could be rebellious and ungrateful and that some parents would be very poor role models who did not necessarily earn respect. I regularly read stories in the news about parents that abuse their children, some even kill them. Does He mean to honor even them?
I had a very difficult time with my mother. She was very protective of my brother and sister. Each of them had special circumstances surrounding their births that created in my mother a need to hold them close. I, on the other hand, came into this world screaming and asserting myself. A "Daddy's Girl" from the onset, my mother found it difficult to develop a relationship with me that was like what she had with my siblings. She said that as a baby I would begin crying as soon as my father left for work and not stop until he returned. In my teens, our problems grew as she experienced some physical and emotional problems that caused her to lash out at me in anger. Because of this I was cautious around her for the rest of our time on this earth together.
My relationship with my father was completely different. My favorite thing to do from the time I was a little girl until the day he passed away was to sit by his chair and hold his hand. I miss that and if the Lord were to ask me to choose one thing that I could do for just five minutes in my life, I just might choose to hold Daddy's hand.
My point in telling this story is that I understand that it can be easy, or very trying, to honor a parent. I love that the Amplified Bible defines "honor" for us as, "respect, obey and care for." This commandment is the first one that brings with it a promise. And our Father does not make any qualifications in it. There is no exclusion for bad parents. It does not say, "If your parents deserve it, honor them." It also does not say, "Until you are grown, honor them" or "honor them only until they die." And that is what intrigues me.
Parents are to be role models in the lives of their children. Not only are they to rear and teach them to handle life in this world, but also to model the love of the Lord. We are to teach our children the Word of God, and live it so they can learn how to truly apply it. There is no better way to teach than to model. They need to see us living moral and ethical lives on earth but also to see in us a true relationship with Christ. They need to see and hear us praying and they need to know that we will be the same people on Monday and each day of the week that we are on Sunday in the Lord's house. Unfortunately, especially today, this seems to be rare. But again, the commandment doesn't exclude us from honoring our mothers and fathers if they don't live up to what we believe to be ideal.
My challenge this week is for each of us examine our relationships with our parents, living or dead. How are we fulfilling God's charge that we honor them? Are we waiting for special holidays or are we honoring them daily in how we live our lives? Are we grateful? What do we hold against them? Forgiveness heals hearts. Whatever they have done that may have hurt you, forgive them. Once you do, honor can follow. With great love, God bless you.
The commandment to honor our parents has always intrigued me. How interesting that the Lord thought it was important enough to etch it in stone on the tablets carried by Moses. Surely He knew that children could be rebellious and ungrateful and that some parents would be very poor role models who did not necessarily earn respect. I regularly read stories in the news about parents that abuse their children, some even kill them. Does He mean to honor even them?
I had a very difficult time with my mother. She was very protective of my brother and sister. Each of them had special circumstances surrounding their births that created in my mother a need to hold them close. I, on the other hand, came into this world screaming and asserting myself. A "Daddy's Girl" from the onset, my mother found it difficult to develop a relationship with me that was like what she had with my siblings. She said that as a baby I would begin crying as soon as my father left for work and not stop until he returned. In my teens, our problems grew as she experienced some physical and emotional problems that caused her to lash out at me in anger. Because of this I was cautious around her for the rest of our time on this earth together.
My relationship with my father was completely different. My favorite thing to do from the time I was a little girl until the day he passed away was to sit by his chair and hold his hand. I miss that and if the Lord were to ask me to choose one thing that I could do for just five minutes in my life, I just might choose to hold Daddy's hand.
My point in telling this story is that I understand that it can be easy, or very trying, to honor a parent. I love that the Amplified Bible defines "honor" for us as, "respect, obey and care for." This commandment is the first one that brings with it a promise. And our Father does not make any qualifications in it. There is no exclusion for bad parents. It does not say, "If your parents deserve it, honor them." It also does not say, "Until you are grown, honor them" or "honor them only until they die." And that is what intrigues me.
Parents are to be role models in the lives of their children. Not only are they to rear and teach them to handle life in this world, but also to model the love of the Lord. We are to teach our children the Word of God, and live it so they can learn how to truly apply it. There is no better way to teach than to model. They need to see us living moral and ethical lives on earth but also to see in us a true relationship with Christ. They need to see and hear us praying and they need to know that we will be the same people on Monday and each day of the week that we are on Sunday in the Lord's house. Unfortunately, especially today, this seems to be rare. But again, the commandment doesn't exclude us from honoring our mothers and fathers if they don't live up to what we believe to be ideal.
My challenge this week is for each of us examine our relationships with our parents, living or dead. How are we fulfilling God's charge that we honor them? Are we waiting for special holidays or are we honoring them daily in how we live our lives? Are we grateful? What do we hold against them? Forgiveness heals hearts. Whatever they have done that may have hurt you, forgive them. Once you do, honor can follow. With great love, God bless you.
Daily Word of God - 1 Corinthians 4:6-7
1 Corinthians 4:6-7 New Living Translation (NLT)
6 Dear brothers and sisters, I have used Apollos and myself to illustrate what I’ve been saying. If you pay attention to what I have quoted from the Scriptures, you won’t be proud of one of your leaders at the expense of another. 7 For what gives you the right to make such a judgment? What do you have that God hasn’t given you? And if everything you have is from God, why boast as though it were not a gift?
6 Dear brothers and sisters, I have used Apollos and myself to illustrate what I’ve been saying. If you pay attention to what I have quoted from the Scriptures, you won’t be proud of one of your leaders at the expense of another. 7 For what gives you the right to make such a judgment? What do you have that God hasn’t given you? And if everything you have is from God, why boast as though it were not a gift?
Tuesday, May 15, 2018
Daily Word of God - 1 Corinthians 15:20-22
1 Corinthians 15:20-22 New Living Translation (NLT)
20 But in fact, Christ has been raised from the dead. He is the first of a great harvest of all who have died.
21 So you see, just as death came into the world through a man, now the resurrection from the dead has begun through another man. 22 Just as everyone dies because we all belong to Adam, everyone who belongs to Christ will be given new life.
20 But in fact, Christ has been raised from the dead. He is the first of a great harvest of all who have died.
21 So you see, just as death came into the world through a man, now the resurrection from the dead has begun through another man. 22 Just as everyone dies because we all belong to Adam, everyone who belongs to Christ will be given new life.
Daily Word of God - Acts 2:17-21
Acts 2:17-21 New Living Translation (NLT)
17 ‘In the last days,’ God says,
‘I will pour out my Spirit upon all people.
Your sons and daughters will prophesy.
Your young men will see visions,
and your old men will dream dreams.
18 In those days I will pour out my Spirit
even on my servants—men and women alike—
and they will prophesy.
19 And I will cause wonders in the heavens above
and signs on the earth below—
blood and fire and clouds of smoke.
20 The sun will become dark,
and the moon will turn blood red
before that great and glorious day of the Lord arrives.
21 But everyone who calls on the name of the Lord
will be saved.’
17 ‘In the last days,’ God says,
‘I will pour out my Spirit upon all people.
Your sons and daughters will prophesy.
Your young men will see visions,
and your old men will dream dreams.
18 In those days I will pour out my Spirit
even on my servants—men and women alike—
and they will prophesy.
19 And I will cause wonders in the heavens above
and signs on the earth below—
blood and fire and clouds of smoke.
20 The sun will become dark,
and the moon will turn blood red
before that great and glorious day of the Lord arrives.
21 But everyone who calls on the name of the Lord
will be saved.’
Monday, May 14, 2018
Daily Word of God - John 11:25-26
John 11:25-26 New Living Translation (NLT)
25 Jesus told her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying. 26 Everyone who lives in me and believes in me will never ever die. Do you believe this, Martha?”
25 Jesus told her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying. 26 Everyone who lives in me and believes in me will never ever die. Do you believe this, Martha?”
Daily Word of God - Ephesians 1:11-12
Ephesians 1:11-12 New Living Translation (NLT)
11 Furthermore, because we are united with Christ, we have received an inheritance from God, for he chose us in advance, and he makes everything work out according to his plan.
12 God’s purpose was that we Jews who were the first to trust in Christ would bring praise and glory to God.
11 Furthermore, because we are united with Christ, we have received an inheritance from God, for he chose us in advance, and he makes everything work out according to his plan.
12 God’s purpose was that we Jews who were the first to trust in Christ would bring praise and glory to God.
Sunday, May 13, 2018
We Honor Our Mothers - Proverbs 6:20-21
Proverbs 6:20-21 New Living Translation (NLT)
20 My son, obey your father’s commands,
and don’t neglect your mother’s instruction.
21 Keep their words always in your heart.
Tie them around your neck.
Daily Word of God - Romans 13:6-7
Romans 13:6-7 New Living Translation (NLT)
6 Pay your taxes, too, for these same reasons. For government workers need to be paid. They are serving God in what they do. 7 Give to everyone what you owe them: Pay your taxes and government fees to those who collect them, and give respect and honor to those who are in authority.
6 Pay your taxes, too, for these same reasons. For government workers need to be paid. They are serving God in what they do. 7 Give to everyone what you owe them: Pay your taxes and government fees to those who collect them, and give respect and honor to those who are in authority.
Sunday Praise & Worship Message - The Comforts of a Mother’s Arms
I remember growing up when I had a scrape or a boo-boo, my Mother was there to fix my skinned knee or bandage a cut. She would go to great efforts to clean and dress the wound or abrasion, but the most important medicine and first aid that she provided was a hug and wiping away the tears. There is something about a mother’s hug and the comfort given by her loving arms that makes things a lot better. It was and continues to be the best medicine in the world.
As I grew older, my boo-boos became more than physical. Sometimes, they were mental or spiritual. Sometimes more painful than a skinned knee or abrasion, they required a little motherly tender loving care. She would give me that wonderful medicine and attention of a hug and wipe away the tears. She would tell me that things would get better. Once I heard those reassuring words, I knew I could take those words not only to the bank but also to heart. Things would get better. Mom always knew best.
I am sure I am not the only one to receive that sort of love and attention. Each of you reading or listening to this message knows exactly what I am writing and talking about. We all have received that wonderful loving hug and reassurance from that special woman in our lives we call “mother”.
Each mother demonstrates that special love each day by doing things that most would not enjoy doing. She is there earning a living, cleaning the house or doing the laundry. She never complains. She does all of these things and so much more without praise nor does she seek it. She is there every day to kiss away the pains that we experience and to celebrate our achievements. Mothers are our cheerleaders and consolers.
So, when God created woman from the rib of the first man, He created something very special. She was not only a helper to Adam but also a mother to two sons and took care of them. She taught them to be godly and mended those scrapes and boo-boos. As I look back through the Bible, I see the strong women of the Bible being mothers, caregivers and consolers. Some of the women were even asked to be leaders or prophets. Look at Miriam, Deborah, Esther, Huldah and Jehosheba just to name a few. These women played not only pivotal roles but they were women who cared for others just like a mother cares for her children.
In order to even get a partial idea of God’s love and how much He cares for His children, we need not go too far into the scriptures to find out. Let us look at Isaiah 66:12-13. The Lord talks about how He will care for Jerusalem. As you read or listen to this scripture, pay particular attention to the example that He uses to convey His love for Jerusalem. He compares His love for this beautiful and special city to that of a mother. “12 This is what the Lord says: ‘I will give Jerusalem a river of peace and prosperity. The wealth of the nations will flow to her. Her children will be nursed at her breasts, carried in her arms, and held on her lap. 13 I will comfort you there in Jerusalem as a mother comforts her child.’”
The Lord talks of how the city will act as a mother to her children by nursing her children, carrying them in her arms and holding them on her lap just like an earthly mother does for her children. Later, the Lord talks about how He will comfort those in Jerusalem like “a mother comforts her child.”
By giving us this wonderful example, we get a glimpse of God’s love and His desire to care for and nurture us throughout all the days of our lives. He will shield us with His mighty arms just as a mother shields her child from harm. He will fix the scrapes and boo-boos we experience in our lives by wiping away the tears, mending the broken-hearted and telling us that things will get better. He, like our earthly mothers, will always be there no matter what happens in our lives. It is comforting to know that He is just a prayer away and we know that He will listen and act to protect, save and love His children.
A mother’s love transcends time and space and knows no bounds. It is through her example that we see the heart of the Lord for us. Years ago, I saw a picture of a plastic cast made of one of the victims of the volcanic explosion in Pompeii when Vesuvius in 79 BC blew ash and lava which obliterated not only the town but killed approximately 2,000 people. The plaster cast showed a mother desperately trying to shield her child from the devastation of that fateful day. She tried in vain to preserve and protect her child. She gave no thought to her own safety or life. She willingly sacrificed her life for her child. Although she was unsuccessful, her story is forever captured in plaster and it is a testimony to the love of mothers everywhere.
God’s love for us is just as timeless and even deeper and more eternal. We need not go any further in the Bible to understand that love. We can easily remember the words of John 3:16. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” But, equally important is the next verse. “17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.”
God, like mothers, does not condemn His children for their sins and transgressions. He provides them with salvation. He is slow to anger and quick to forgive, because He loves and wants only the best for His children. Once again, mothers are the same. They want to provide only the best and all that they can give to their children. Mothers are that earthly example of love, forgiveness and comfort that we experience when we have a relationship with our Heavenly Father. He comforts us when all seems lost and hopeless. He gives us the direction in our lives that we need. He, first and foremost, showers us with His love daily.
As we receive comfort from Him, we learn what it means to love and to provide comfort. Just as our mothers taught us to love and comfort others, God has done the same for us. When my Father-in-Law, Jim, passed away and went on to his reward, our pastor reminded me of why God gives us comfort. Reading from 2 Corinthians, “4 He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.” God gives us the comfort that we need so that we can comfort those around us who also need to be comforted. Mothers do the same for us. They give us comfort so that we, in turn, can give comfort to those around us who desperately need it most.
Mothers provide to us the priceless gift of love and care through the most simple of activities, tending to the bumps and bruises, wiping away the tears and holding us when we need to be held. I cannot help but think to the traditions of the Sioux Indians. Warriors called each woman of their village “Mother”. Each was special and each cared for the children. It is a wonderful example of how we see the love of a mother. Nature also provides the example. Female animals even of different species will nurse and care for babies who have lost their mothers. I have personally witnessed this wonderful act of love many times. It warms the heart and brings a tear to one’s eye to see even animals have learned the love of our Heavenly Father. No matter what you are or who you are, He loves us and will take care of us.
As you go through this special day we call “Mother’s Day”, I encourage each of you to thank your mother or that special woman who took that role of “Mom” in your life. Let her know that you received a rich blessing by having their arms around you and letting you know that you are loved. As we thank our earthly mothers, let us also think about the love of God and how much He cared for us by giving us His son as our sacrifice for our sins and that He did not send him to live among us to judge or condemn us but rather to save us by providing salvation and redemption. When we accepted that wonderful gift and love, we knew from that moment on that we can stand firm in His grace.
May the Lord bless you and protect you. May the Lord smile on you and be gracious to you. May the Lord show you his favor and give you his peace.
~ Numbers 6:24-26 New Living Translation (NLT)
Daily Word of God - Jeremiah 17:5-10
Jeremiah 17:5-10 New Living Translation (NLT)
Wisdom from the Lord
5 This is what the Lord says:
“Cursed are those who put their trust in mere humans,
who rely on human strength
and turn their hearts away from the Lord.
6 They are like stunted shrubs in the desert,
with no hope for the future.
They will live in the barren wilderness,
in an uninhabited salty land.
7 “But blessed are those who trust in the Lord
and have made the Lord their hope and confidence.
8 They are like trees planted along a riverbank,
with roots that reach deep into the water.
Such trees are not bothered by the heat
or worried by long months of drought.
Their leaves stay green,
and they never stop producing fruit.
9 “The human heart is the most deceitful of all things,
and desperately wicked.
Who really knows how bad it is?
10 But I, the Lord, search all hearts
and examine secret motives.
I give all people their due rewards,
according to what their actions deserve.”
Wisdom from the Lord
5 This is what the Lord says:
“Cursed are those who put their trust in mere humans,
who rely on human strength
and turn their hearts away from the Lord.
6 They are like stunted shrubs in the desert,
with no hope for the future.
They will live in the barren wilderness,
in an uninhabited salty land.
7 “But blessed are those who trust in the Lord
and have made the Lord their hope and confidence.
8 They are like trees planted along a riverbank,
with roots that reach deep into the water.
Such trees are not bothered by the heat
or worried by long months of drought.
Their leaves stay green,
and they never stop producing fruit.
9 “The human heart is the most deceitful of all things,
and desperately wicked.
Who really knows how bad it is?
10 But I, the Lord, search all hearts
and examine secret motives.
I give all people their due rewards,
according to what their actions deserve.”
We Honor Our Mothers - Proverbs 31:10-30
A Wife of Noble Character
10 Who can find a virtuous and capable wife?
She is more precious than rubies.
11 Her husband can trust her,
and she will greatly enrich his life.
12 She brings him good, not harm,
all the days of her life.
13 She finds wool and flax
and busily spins it.
14 She is like a merchant’s ship,
bringing her food from afar.
15 She gets up before dawn to prepare breakfast for her household
and plan the day’s work for her servant girls.
16 She goes to inspect a field and buys it;
with her earnings she plants a vineyard.
17 She is energetic and strong,
a hard worker.
18 She makes sure her dealings are profitable;
her lamp burns late into the night.
19 Her hands are busy spinning thread,
her fingers twisting fiber.
20 She extends a helping hand to the poor
and opens her arms to the needy.
21 She has no fear of winter for her household,
for everyone has warm clothes.
22 She makes her own bedspreads.
She dresses in fine linen and purple gowns.
23 Her husband is well known at the city gates,
where he sits with the other civic leaders.
24 She makes belted linen garments
and sashes to sell to the merchants.
25 She is clothed with strength and dignity,
and she laughs without fear of the future.
26 When she speaks, her words are wise,
and she gives instructions with kindness.
27 She carefully watches everything in her household
and suffers nothing from laziness.
28 Her children stand and bless her.
Her husband praises her:
29 “There are many virtuous and capable women in the world,
but you surpass them all!”
30 Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last;
but a woman who fears the Lord will be greatly praised.
Saturday, May 12, 2018
Daily Word of God - 2 Samuel 7:18-29
2 Samuel 7:18-29 New Living Translation (NLT)
18 Then King David went in and sat before the Lord and prayed,
“Who am I, O Sovereign Lord, and what is my family, that you have brought me this far? 19 And now, Sovereign Lord, in addition to everything else, you speak of giving your servant a lasting dynasty! Do you deal with everyone this way, O Sovereign Lord?
20 “What more can I say to you? You know what your servant is really like, Sovereign Lord. 21 Because of your promise and according to your will, you have done all these great things and have made them known to your servant.
22 “How great you are, O Sovereign Lord! There is no one like you. We have never even heard of another God like you! 23 What other nation on earth is like your people Israel? What other nation, O God, have you redeemed from slavery to be your own people? You made a great name for yourself when you redeemed your people from Egypt. You performed awesome miracles and drove out the nations and gods that stood in their way. 24 You made Israel your very own people forever, and you, O Lord, became their God.
25 “And now, O Lord God, I am your servant; do as you have promised concerning me and my family. Confirm it as a promise that will last forever. 26 And may your name be honored forever so that everyone will say, ‘The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is God over Israel!’ And may the house of your servant David continue before you forever.
27 “O Lord of Heaven’s Armies, God of Israel, I have been bold enough to pray this prayer to you because you have revealed all this to your servant, saying, ‘I will build a house for you—a dynasty of kings!’ 28 For you are God, O Sovereign Lord. Your words are truth, and you have promised these good things to your servant. 29 And now, may it please you to bless the house of your servant, so that it may continue forever before you. For you have spoken, and when you grant a blessing to your servant, O Sovereign Lord, it is an eternal blessing!”
18 Then King David went in and sat before the Lord and prayed,
“Who am I, O Sovereign Lord, and what is my family, that you have brought me this far? 19 And now, Sovereign Lord, in addition to everything else, you speak of giving your servant a lasting dynasty! Do you deal with everyone this way, O Sovereign Lord?
20 “What more can I say to you? You know what your servant is really like, Sovereign Lord. 21 Because of your promise and according to your will, you have done all these great things and have made them known to your servant.
22 “How great you are, O Sovereign Lord! There is no one like you. We have never even heard of another God like you! 23 What other nation on earth is like your people Israel? What other nation, O God, have you redeemed from slavery to be your own people? You made a great name for yourself when you redeemed your people from Egypt. You performed awesome miracles and drove out the nations and gods that stood in their way. 24 You made Israel your very own people forever, and you, O Lord, became their God.
25 “And now, O Lord God, I am your servant; do as you have promised concerning me and my family. Confirm it as a promise that will last forever. 26 And may your name be honored forever so that everyone will say, ‘The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is God over Israel!’ And may the house of your servant David continue before you forever.
27 “O Lord of Heaven’s Armies, God of Israel, I have been bold enough to pray this prayer to you because you have revealed all this to your servant, saying, ‘I will build a house for you—a dynasty of kings!’ 28 For you are God, O Sovereign Lord. Your words are truth, and you have promised these good things to your servant. 29 And now, may it please you to bless the house of your servant, so that it may continue forever before you. For you have spoken, and when you grant a blessing to your servant, O Sovereign Lord, it is an eternal blessing!”
Daily Word of God - Joshua 1:6-9
Joshua 1:6-9 New Living Translation (NLT)
6 “Be strong and courageous, for you are the one who will lead these people to possess all the land I swore to their ancestors I would give them. 7 Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the instructions Moses gave you. Do not deviate from them, turning either to the right or to the left. Then you will be successful in everything you do. 8 Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. 9 This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
6 “Be strong and courageous, for you are the one who will lead these people to possess all the land I swore to their ancestors I would give them. 7 Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the instructions Moses gave you. Do not deviate from them, turning either to the right or to the left. Then you will be successful in everything you do. 8 Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. 9 This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
Friday, May 11, 2018
Daily Word of God - Hebrews 9:15
Hebrews 9:15 New Living Translation (NLT)
15 That is why he is the one who mediates a new covenant between God and people, so that all who are called can receive the eternal inheritance God has promised them. For Christ died to set them free from the penalty of the sins they had committed under that first covenant.
15 That is why he is the one who mediates a new covenant between God and people, so that all who are called can receive the eternal inheritance God has promised them. For Christ died to set them free from the penalty of the sins they had committed under that first covenant.
Daily Word of God - Ephesians 4:11-13
Ephesians 4:11-13 New Living Translation (NLT)
11 Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. 12 Their responsibility is to equip God’s people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ. 13 This will continue until we all come to such unity in our faith and knowledge of God’s Son that we will be mature in the Lord, measuring up to the full and complete standard of Christ.
11 Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. 12 Their responsibility is to equip God’s people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ. 13 This will continue until we all come to such unity in our faith and knowledge of God’s Son that we will be mature in the Lord, measuring up to the full and complete standard of Christ.
Thursday, May 10, 2018
Daily Word of God - Luke 9:23-27
Luke 9:23-27 New Living Translation (NLT)
23 Then he said to the crowd, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross daily, and follow me. 24 If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it. 25 And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but are yourself lost or destroyed? 26 If anyone is ashamed of me and my message, the Son of Man will be ashamed of that person when he returns in his glory and in the glory of the Father and the holy angels. 27 I tell you the truth, some standing here right now will not die before they see the Kingdom of God.”
23 Then he said to the crowd, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross daily, and follow me. 24 If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it. 25 And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but are yourself lost or destroyed? 26 If anyone is ashamed of me and my message, the Son of Man will be ashamed of that person when he returns in his glory and in the glory of the Father and the holy angels. 27 I tell you the truth, some standing here right now will not die before they see the Kingdom of God.”
Daily Word of God - Psalm 119:1-2
Psalm 119:1-2 New Living Translation (NLT)
1 Joyful are people of integrity,
who follow the instructions of the Lord.
2 Joyful are those who obey his laws
and search for him with all their hearts.
1 Joyful are people of integrity,
who follow the instructions of the Lord.
2 Joyful are those who obey his laws
and search for him with all their hearts.
Wednesday, May 9, 2018
Daily Word of God - Psalm 94:18-19
Psalm 94:18-19 New Living Translation (NLT)
18 I cried out, “I am slipping!”
but your unfailing love, O Lord, supported me.
19 When doubts filled my mind,
your comfort gave me renewed hope and cheer.
18 I cried out, “I am slipping!”
but your unfailing love, O Lord, supported me.
19 When doubts filled my mind,
your comfort gave me renewed hope and cheer.
Mid-Week Message - Sharing His Story
"Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations [help the people to learn of Me, believe in Me, and obey My words], baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe everything that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always [remaining with you perpetually—regardless of circumstance, and on every occasion], even to the end of the age." Matthew 28:19-20 (AMP)
I have told the story before of Betty Allen, the lovely lady that took me to church for the first time and introduced me to the Lord. From that time on, I have felt the need and desire to include Him in my life. In fact, there is a song by Big Daddy Weave called "My Story" that says, "To tell you my story is to tell of Him." I cannot talk about my life, or really much else either, without speaking of Jesus. It just doesn't seem natural to me to live or speak without including Him because He has been, is now, and will always be, the most important person and my greatest influence. It amazes me that it isn't that way for everyone.
I can remember a time in my childhood when I told my best friend about the importance of having Jesus as her personal Savior. She told her family and her family replied that one's relationship with God is to be kept private. That happened again during my teenage years. I took part in a city-wide campaign to share the gospel. One night I sat in my front yard and witnessed to my neighbor who was a couple of years younger than I was. He prayed to accept Jesus and I was so excited. However, when he told his parents, they were angry and said the same thing "one's relationship with the Lord is to be kept private." I was flabbergasted! I couldn't understand how someone could have a relationship with the Living God and not want to share it with everyone around.
I have learned a lot through the years. I have watched as this nation has declared sharing the gospel something to be cautious of, and at times even ashamed of. Sharing the "Good News" is becoming more and more frowned upon. I fear that the day is coming when it will be outlawed as it is in some other countries. However, this wouldn't be the first, nor the last time that the enemy has attempted to silence the Truth. And, just as it has never worked in the past, it will not work in the future.
During the Olympic games in China, the scriptures were transported into the country even though it was illegal to do so. Believers would download them onto memory sticks and leave them in bathrooms and other places where they were sure to be found. There will always be those who are dedicated to sharing His story and will find a way to do so, no matter what, even if that means going to prison or losing their own lives.
One's relationship with Almighty God is not something that is to be kept private. Jesus told us to go and make disciples of all nations, and that includes everyone. That relationship is one to shout from the rooftops, to allow to gush forth. Not everyone will want to hear it but it has to be told. Even though America is traditionally a Christian nation, there are millions that do not know Jesus. My challenge for everyone this week is to examine how we each share how He has worked in our own lives and how we obey the command to tell that story. God bless you.
I have told the story before of Betty Allen, the lovely lady that took me to church for the first time and introduced me to the Lord. From that time on, I have felt the need and desire to include Him in my life. In fact, there is a song by Big Daddy Weave called "My Story" that says, "To tell you my story is to tell of Him." I cannot talk about my life, or really much else either, without speaking of Jesus. It just doesn't seem natural to me to live or speak without including Him because He has been, is now, and will always be, the most important person and my greatest influence. It amazes me that it isn't that way for everyone. I can remember a time in my childhood when I told my best friend about the importance of having Jesus as her personal Savior. She told her family and her family replied that one's relationship with God is to be kept private. That happened again during my teenage years. I took part in a city-wide campaign to share the gospel. One night I sat in my front yard and witnessed to my neighbor who was a couple of years younger than I was. He prayed to accept Jesus and I was so excited. However, when he told his parents, they were angry and said the same thing "one's relationship with the Lord is to be kept private." I was flabbergasted! I couldn't understand how someone could have a relationship with the Living God and not want to share it with everyone around.
I have learned a lot through the years. I have watched as this nation has declared sharing the gospel something to be cautious of, and at times even ashamed of. Sharing the "Good News" is becoming more and more frowned upon. I fear that the day is coming when it will be outlawed as it is in some other countries. However, this wouldn't be the first, nor the last time that the enemy has attempted to silence the Truth. And, just as it has never worked in the past, it will not work in the future.
During the Olympic games in China, the scriptures were transported into the country even though it was illegal to do so. Believers would download them onto memory sticks and leave them in bathrooms and other places where they were sure to be found. There will always be those who are dedicated to sharing His story and will find a way to do so, no matter what, even if that means going to prison or losing their own lives.
One's relationship with Almighty God is not something that is to be kept private. Jesus told us to go and make disciples of all nations, and that includes everyone. That relationship is one to shout from the rooftops, to allow to gush forth. Not everyone will want to hear it but it has to be told. Even though America is traditionally a Christian nation, there are millions that do not know Jesus. My challenge for everyone this week is to examine how we each share how He has worked in our own lives and how we obey the command to tell that story. God bless you.
Daily Word of God - Proverbs 17:17
Proverbs 17:17 New Living Translation (NLT)
17 A friend is always loyal,
and a brother is born to help in time of need.
17 A friend is always loyal,
and a brother is born to help in time of need.
Announcement - Mother's Day
Don't forget that Mother's Day is Sunday, May 13th. Please do something special for your Mom or someone in your life that has acted as Mom. These are very special women in our lives.
Tuesday, May 8, 2018
Daily Word of God - John 19:28-30
John 19:28-30 New Living Translation (NLT)
28 Jesus knew that his mission was now finished, and to fulfill Scripture he said, “I am thirsty.” 29 A jar of sour wine was sitting there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put it on a hyssop branch, and held it up to his lips. 30 When Jesus had tasted it, he said, “It is finished!” Then he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.
28 Jesus knew that his mission was now finished, and to fulfill Scripture he said, “I am thirsty.” 29 A jar of sour wine was sitting there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put it on a hyssop branch, and held it up to his lips. 30 When Jesus had tasted it, he said, “It is finished!” Then he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.
Daily Word of God - Matthew 21:21-22
Matthew 21:21-22 New Living Translation (NLT)
21 Then Jesus told them, “I tell you the truth, if you have faith and don’t doubt, you can do things like this and much more. You can even say to this mountain, ‘May you be lifted up and thrown into the sea,’ and it will happen. 22 You can pray for anything, and if you have faith, you will receive it.”
21 Then Jesus told them, “I tell you the truth, if you have faith and don’t doubt, you can do things like this and much more. You can even say to this mountain, ‘May you be lifted up and thrown into the sea,’ and it will happen. 22 You can pray for anything, and if you have faith, you will receive it.”
Monday, May 7, 2018
Daily Word of God - Romans 5:6-8
Romans 5:6-8 New Living Translation (NLT)
6 When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners. 7 Now, most people would not be willing to die for an upright person, though someone might perhaps be willing to die for a person who is especially good. 8 But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.
6 When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners. 7 Now, most people would not be willing to die for an upright person, though someone might perhaps be willing to die for a person who is especially good. 8 But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.
Daily Word of God - John 1:29-31
John 1:29-31 New Living Translation (NLT)
29 The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! 30 He is the one I was talking about when I said, ‘A man is coming after me who is far greater than I am, for he existed long before me.’ 31 I did not recognize him as the Messiah, but I have been baptizing with water so that he might be revealed to Israel.”
29 The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! 30 He is the one I was talking about when I said, ‘A man is coming after me who is far greater than I am, for he existed long before me.’ 31 I did not recognize him as the Messiah, but I have been baptizing with water so that he might be revealed to Israel.”
Sunday, May 6, 2018
Daily Word of God - Psalm 119:93
Psalm 119:93 New Living Translation (NLT)
93 I will never forget your commandments,
for by them you give me life.
93 I will never forget your commandments,
for by them you give me life.
Sunday Praise & Worship Message - What Does God Think of Us
After seeing these insidious advertisements, we begin to want and desire things not because we need them, but, rather, we want them to make us look sophisticated and part of the “in crowd” Even our children are affected by these commercials. By not wearing the right sneakers or wearing the right clothes, they risk ridicule from their classmates. If they own the wrong video game console, other children will pick on them for their choice.
It is not enough just to have nice clothes or a dependable car, you are being told that you have to have an item because it will make you look cool to your friends. Instead of concentrating on more important things, we begin to worry about our images and wonder if we are truly “keeping up with the Joneses”. We constantly compare ourselves to those on television or in magazines and strive to become those perfect individuals.
When we begin to live our lives in this fashion, we are constantly worried about what others think about us. We live our lives through their eyes and their opinions regarding our lives. We soon forget the things that are truly important to us. We begin to move away from God and concentrate on what appear to be the most important things.
When Jesus enters Jerusalem on the back of a donkey on that beautiful Palm Sunday, the people welcomed him. In less than a week, many turned their back on him and wanted his execution. In John 12, Jesus talks about the people who do not believe in him completely. Starting with verse 42, John writes, “42 Many people did believe in him, however, including some of the Jewish leaders. But they wouldn’t admit it for fear that the Pharisees would expel them from the synagogue. 43 For they loved human praise more than the praise of God.”
Although they may have believed in him, they still let the world drive their opinions of themselves. They preferred the praise of those around them rather than the praise of the Father. They wanted to hear the words that would tickle their ears and make themselves feel good about their decisions. We act the same way even today. We still allow others to dictate how we should act and feel when it comes to doing God’s will. We will sometimes shirk our responsibilities in favor of currying favor with others and garnering their approval of our lives.
As we continue down this path, we move farther and farther away from one whose view of us should matter most. We do not seek out God, but rather we work to gain the approval of others. The more we do this; the more we fail to serve God and we begin to serve our own vanity and feed our pride.
Instead of being slaves to the opinions and dictates of others, we should dedicate ourselves to God the Father. He created us. Let us look at the beautiful story of Genesis regarding the creation of man. Reading from Genesis 2. “7 Then the LORD God formed the man from the dust of the ground. He breathed the breath of life into the man's nostrils, and the man became a living person.” God created all living things, but man was special. God personally fashioned him from the dust of the ground and breathed life into him. God did not do that with the fish and fowl of the seas and skies or with the animals that walk the dry land. Those were just created. God took special effort with man and made him in His own image.
In verse 26 of Genesis 1, God says that man “will reign over the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky, the livestock, all the wild animals on the earth, and the small animals that scurry along the ground.” God places man as the steward of His work and gives him power over creation. God thought that much of man.
Let us look at Psalm 139 and see what David says about God and His view of us. “1 O Lord, you have examined my heart and know everything about me. 2 You know when I sit down or stand up. You know my thoughts even when I’m far away. 3 You see me when I travel and when I rest at home. You know everything I do. 4 You know what I am going to say even before I say it, Lord. 5 You go before me and follow me. You place your hand of blessing on my head. 6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too great for me to understand!”
God knows everything about us Jesus tells us in Luke 12, “6 'What is the price of five sparrows—two copper coins? Yet God does not forget a single one of them. 7 And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows.'” Once again, God shows us what He thinks of us. We are so very valuable to Him.
If we examine Psalm 139 again, David tells us that God delicately knitted us together in the wombs of our mothers. He knew us before we were born and laid out each step of our lives. David sums it up best. “17 How precious are your thoughts about me, O God. They cannot be numbered! 18 I can’t even count them; they outnumber the grains of sand! And when I wake up, you are still with me!” God thinks about us every single moment of every single day. He guides our every step without fail. His love is unending and everlasting.
To show you how much He loves you. Let us look at possibly the most quoted, memorized and profound of all Bible verses, John 3:16. “For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.” God provided for our salvation by giving us His son as our sacrifice for our sins and transgressions. That is how much He thinks of you. Certainly more than all those around us.
When we concentrate on God and seeking His approval, we make Him the center of our lives and live as He intended that we should. We no longer allow others to judge our lifestyles and do not seek their approval.
If you do not have a relationship with God who loves you more than you can ever imagine, listen to your heart. If you hear someone knocking on the door of your heart, that is Jesus asking to come into your life. He wants to give you something that others cannot give you. He wants you to know about a love that is everlasting and undeserved. It is love that will engulf you completely and give you a wonderful peace.
When you have God in your life and His love that will fill you to overflowing, you will know just how much God loves you and be able to stand firm in His grace.
May the Lord bless you and protect you. May the Lord smile on you and be gracious to you. May the Lord show you his favor and give you his peace.
~ Numbers 6:24-26 New Living Translation (NLT)
Daily Word of God - 1 Corinthians 8:6
1 Corinthians 8:6 New Living Translation (NLT)
6 But for us,
There is one God, the Father,
by whom all things were created,
and for whom we live.
And there is one Lord, Jesus Christ,
through whom all things were created,
and through whom we live.
6 But for us,
There is one God, the Father,
by whom all things were created,
and for whom we live.
And there is one Lord, Jesus Christ,
through whom all things were created,
and through whom we live.
Saturday, May 5, 2018
Daily Word of God - Revelation 5:9
Revelation 5:9 New Living Translation (NLT)
9 And they sang a new song with these words:
“You are worthy to take the scroll
and break its seals and open it.
For you were slaughtered, and your blood has ransomed people for God
from every tribe and language and people and nation.
9 And they sang a new song with these words:
“You are worthy to take the scroll
and break its seals and open it.
For you were slaughtered, and your blood has ransomed people for God
from every tribe and language and people and nation.
Daily Word of God - Psalm 116:6-7
Psalm 116:6-7 New Living Translation (NLT)
6 The Lord protects those of childlike faith;
I was facing death, and he saved me.
7 Let my soul be at rest again,
for the Lord has been good to me.
6 The Lord protects those of childlike faith;
I was facing death, and he saved me.
7 Let my soul be at rest again,
for the Lord has been good to me.
Friday, May 4, 2018
Daily Word of God - Galatians 2:21
Galatians 2:21 New Living Translation (NLT)
21 I do not treat the grace of God as meaningless. For if keeping the law could make us right with God, then there was no need for Christ to die.
21 I do not treat the grace of God as meaningless. For if keeping the law could make us right with God, then there was no need for Christ to die.
Daily Word of God - Psalm 122:8-9
Psalm 122:8-9 New Living Translation (NLT)
8 For the sake of my family and friends, I will say,
“May you have peace.”
9 For the sake of the house of the Lord our God,
I will seek what is best for you, O Jerusalem.
8 For the sake of my family and friends, I will say,
“May you have peace.”
9 For the sake of the house of the Lord our God,
I will seek what is best for you, O Jerusalem.
Thursday, May 3, 2018
Daily Word of God - John 1:32-34
John 1:32-34 New Living Translation (NLT)
32 Then John testified, “I saw the Holy Spirit descending like a dove from heaven and resting upon him. 33 I didn’t know he was the one, but when God sent me to baptize with water, he told me, ‘The one on whom you see the Spirit descend and rest is the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.’ 34 I saw this happen to Jesus, so I testify that he is the Chosen One of God.”
32 Then John testified, “I saw the Holy Spirit descending like a dove from heaven and resting upon him. 33 I didn’t know he was the one, but when God sent me to baptize with water, he told me, ‘The one on whom you see the Spirit descend and rest is the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.’ 34 I saw this happen to Jesus, so I testify that he is the Chosen One of God.”
Daily Word of God - 2 Samuel 7:27-29
2 Samuel 7:27-29 New Living Translation (NLT)
27 “O Lord of Heaven’s Armies, God of Israel, I have been bold enough to pray this prayer to you because you have revealed all this to your servant, saying, ‘I will build a house for you—a dynasty of kings!’ 28 For you are God, O Sovereign Lord. Your words are truth, and you have promised these good things to your servant. 29 And now, may it please you to bless the house of your servant, so that it may continue forever before you. For you have spoken, and when you grant a blessing to your servant, O Sovereign Lord, it is an eternal blessing!”
27 “O Lord of Heaven’s Armies, God of Israel, I have been bold enough to pray this prayer to you because you have revealed all this to your servant, saying, ‘I will build a house for you—a dynasty of kings!’ 28 For you are God, O Sovereign Lord. Your words are truth, and you have promised these good things to your servant. 29 And now, may it please you to bless the house of your servant, so that it may continue forever before you. For you have spoken, and when you grant a blessing to your servant, O Sovereign Lord, it is an eternal blessing!”
Wednesday, May 2, 2018
Daily Word of God - 2 Corinthians 5:18-19
2 Corinthians 5:18-19 New Living Translation (NLT)
18 And all of this is a gift from God, who brought us back to himself through Christ. And God has given us this task of reconciling people to him. 19 For God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, no longer counting people’s sins against them. And he gave us this wonderful message of reconciliation.
18 And all of this is a gift from God, who brought us back to himself through Christ. And God has given us this task of reconciling people to him. 19 For God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, no longer counting people’s sins against them. And he gave us this wonderful message of reconciliation.
Mid-Week Message - All Things New
"And he who was seated on the throne said, “Behold, I am making all things new.” Also he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true." Revelation 21:5 (ESV)
Life has been trying for our family since the end of December. My husband went through a terrible illness, had surgery, spent three weeks in the hospital, endured having to do IV antibiotic treatments at home and, to top it off, lost his job. It is now May and we are only now beginning to get our lives back to a semblance of normalcy. We have shed many tears and spent much time in prayer seeking God's guidance and deliverance.
Yesterday, my beloved had a phone interview so I took our dogs out in the car so that he wouldn't have to worry about them barking during his call. As I usually do, I went to get coffee then headed to a quiet place to park and wait until time to return home. Interestingly, I parked in front of a tree that had a new growth of leaves coming from the middle of the trunk. As I sat and pondered that, the verse above came to my mind.
Now, I don't know if you believe that God talks to you or not, but I know He does to me. So I recognized His voice and felt reassured that His answer to our dilemma is imminent. The interview went wonderfully and, in addition, we had two showings of our house (which is for sale) scheduled for last evening. The house is another issue we have been praying over. Then, we had another showing today.
When winter arrives, trees and other plants look as though they die off. But then spring comes and new life springs forth. All of us go through winters once in awhile. But just like in nature, eventually, winter passes and what appears lost becomes alive again. Just when all seems hopeless, God turns everything around and blessings come from unexpected places, just as the new growth on the tree I saw came from the middle of the trunk rather than the top. We just have to hold on and trust that the day is coming when the Lord will reveal His plan, and He always does.
It can be very difficult to trust when nothing seems to be happening. I know that all too well. However, when we wait upon the Lord, expecting to see miracles, then when life begins to improve, we know where to direct our praise. Wherever you find yourself today, I pray that you are able to say, "Lord, I know you have a plan and that you will cause all these things to work together for good. Help me hang onto your hand for just a little while longer." God bless you!
Life has been trying for our family since the end of December. My husband went through a terrible illness, had surgery, spent three weeks in the hospital, endured having to do IV antibiotic treatments at home and, to top it off, lost his job. It is now May and we are only now beginning to get our lives back to a semblance of normalcy. We have shed many tears and spent much time in prayer seeking God's guidance and deliverance.
Yesterday, my beloved had a phone interview so I took our dogs out in the car so that he wouldn't have to worry about them barking during his call. As I usually do, I went to get coffee then headed to a quiet place to park and wait until time to return home. Interestingly, I parked in front of a tree that had a new growth of leaves coming from the middle of the trunk. As I sat and pondered that, the verse above came to my mind.
Now, I don't know if you believe that God talks to you or not, but I know He does to me. So I recognized His voice and felt reassured that His answer to our dilemma is imminent. The interview went wonderfully and, in addition, we had two showings of our house (which is for sale) scheduled for last evening. The house is another issue we have been praying over. Then, we had another showing today.
When winter arrives, trees and other plants look as though they die off. But then spring comes and new life springs forth. All of us go through winters once in awhile. But just like in nature, eventually, winter passes and what appears lost becomes alive again. Just when all seems hopeless, God turns everything around and blessings come from unexpected places, just as the new growth on the tree I saw came from the middle of the trunk rather than the top. We just have to hold on and trust that the day is coming when the Lord will reveal His plan, and He always does.
It can be very difficult to trust when nothing seems to be happening. I know that all too well. However, when we wait upon the Lord, expecting to see miracles, then when life begins to improve, we know where to direct our praise. Wherever you find yourself today, I pray that you are able to say, "Lord, I know you have a plan and that you will cause all these things to work together for good. Help me hang onto your hand for just a little while longer." God bless you!
Daily Word of God - Isaiah 26:4
Isaiah 26:4 New Living Translation (NLT)
4 Trust in the Lord always,
for the Lord God is the eternal Rock.
4 Trust in the Lord always,
for the Lord God is the eternal Rock.
Tuesday, May 1, 2018
Daily Word of God - Hebrews 13:16
Hebrews 13:16 New Living Translation (NLT)
16 And don’t forget to do good and to share with those in need. These are the sacrifices that please God.
16 And don’t forget to do good and to share with those in need. These are the sacrifices that please God.
Daily Word of God - Psalm 37:23
Psalm 37:23 New Living Translation (NLT)
23 The Lord directs the steps of the godly.
He delights in every detail of their lives.
23 The Lord directs the steps of the godly.
He delights in every detail of their lives.
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