Scripure:
Matthew 6:33 "Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need"
Observation:
Jesus is teaching the crowds in what we call the Sermon on the Mount. As He is talking about money and worrying about financial things, He throws in this one little verse. Basically He tells them to seek God's kingdom and live righteously and they will have everything they need. In the context, Jesus is talking about money and providing for the needs in life that we have. He is saying to seek God and stop worrying about our money.
Application:
This is one of those passages that is easier to understand than it is to apply. Jesus is clear that He doesn't want us worrying about tomorrow. He wants us to seek His Kingdom and when we do He promises that He will take care of us. He says here that if we keep God as our first priority, He will give us everything else we need. It's easy to trust God in some areas of life, but finances either make us or break us as people of faith. When you really learn to walk by faith, it will show in your checkbook. Jesus wants us free from worry because worry kills.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to learn to trust You more, especially in my finances. I want to seek your kingdom and build your kingdom, but I do struggle with worrying about finances. It is tough when there is no money at the end of the pay period. Increase my faith in this area and help me to walk by faith and not by sight. Thank you for giving me everything I need. I ask You to help me eliminate debt in my life.
Jeff
Friday, April 30, 2010
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Angels
Scripture:
Matthew 2:19 "When Herod died, an angel of the Lord appeared in an dream to Joseph in Egypt".
Observation:
During the time of Jesus and the book of Acts it appears to have been very normal for people to see angels. There were many angels involved in the birth of Jesus. Angels are messengers of God who bring messages to people. It seems like it was a normal occurance, oh, by the way, an angel spoke to me today.
Application:
I don't believe angelic messages have stopped. I believe that angels still bring messages to God's people. When we are truly seeking God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength, we will find that angelic visitations will increase. From reading the Gospels and Acts, it seems that angelic visitations should be normal for Christians. Why doesn't it happen as much today? Why do we not get messages from angels of the Lord as much today?
Prayer:
Lord, it is evident that you often spoke to Your people through angels in the New and Old Testaments. The message was always clear and there was no doubt about what they had seen or spoken to. Thanks for the few times I know I have seen angels, but I want to be in a place, and I desire the body of Christ to be in a place where we see increased angelic activity. Increase it here in northern VA. Some people need to be shaken up in their walk with you and an angelic visitation may just do the job. I love Your Lord. Speak to me more and more.
Yours,
Jeff
Matthew 2:19 "When Herod died, an angel of the Lord appeared in an dream to Joseph in Egypt".
Observation:
During the time of Jesus and the book of Acts it appears to have been very normal for people to see angels. There were many angels involved in the birth of Jesus. Angels are messengers of God who bring messages to people. It seems like it was a normal occurance, oh, by the way, an angel spoke to me today.
Application:
I don't believe angelic messages have stopped. I believe that angels still bring messages to God's people. When we are truly seeking God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength, we will find that angelic visitations will increase. From reading the Gospels and Acts, it seems that angelic visitations should be normal for Christians. Why doesn't it happen as much today? Why do we not get messages from angels of the Lord as much today?
Prayer:
Lord, it is evident that you often spoke to Your people through angels in the New and Old Testaments. The message was always clear and there was no doubt about what they had seen or spoken to. Thanks for the few times I know I have seen angels, but I want to be in a place, and I desire the body of Christ to be in a place where we see increased angelic activity. Increase it here in northern VA. Some people need to be shaken up in their walk with you and an angelic visitation may just do the job. I love Your Lord. Speak to me more and more.
Yours,
Jeff
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
My Refuge
Scripture:
Deuteronomy 33:27 "The eternal God is your refuge, and his everlasting arms are under you. He drives out the enemy before you; he cries out, 'Destroy them!'"
Observation:
Moses had been blessing the tribes of Israel just before his death and at the end of the blessings, he breaks out in some praise of the Most High God. He shares with them some of the attributes of our God. He focuses on the eternal aspect of God by saying he is eternal and talking about His everlasting arms. He tells them to take refuge in the Lord and that He will drive out their enemies.
Application:
Taking refuge means to find a safe place that can be trusted to hide and take shelter in. When you focus on the eternal aspect of God, it becomes easier to take refuge in Him. Nothing has defeated Him since the eternal past, therefore, I believe He can take care of my battles. It says of the Lord that He will drive out the enemy before us. Many times we try to drive out enemies without doing it His way. We must learn to live and let God do our fighting. He always prevails!
Prayer:
Show me dear Lord, how to take refuge in You. When the enemy attacks, let my faith be strong. You are eternal and have protected Your children for thousands of years. Help me understand that You know what you are doing. I ask you this morning to help me stay focused on You. Give me words to speak to Your people today that are straight from Your throne.
Love,
Jeff
Deuteronomy 33:27 "The eternal God is your refuge, and his everlasting arms are under you. He drives out the enemy before you; he cries out, 'Destroy them!'"
Observation:
Moses had been blessing the tribes of Israel just before his death and at the end of the blessings, he breaks out in some praise of the Most High God. He shares with them some of the attributes of our God. He focuses on the eternal aspect of God by saying he is eternal and talking about His everlasting arms. He tells them to take refuge in the Lord and that He will drive out their enemies.
Application:
Taking refuge means to find a safe place that can be trusted to hide and take shelter in. When you focus on the eternal aspect of God, it becomes easier to take refuge in Him. Nothing has defeated Him since the eternal past, therefore, I believe He can take care of my battles. It says of the Lord that He will drive out the enemy before us. Many times we try to drive out enemies without doing it His way. We must learn to live and let God do our fighting. He always prevails!
Prayer:
Show me dear Lord, how to take refuge in You. When the enemy attacks, let my faith be strong. You are eternal and have protected Your children for thousands of years. Help me understand that You know what you are doing. I ask you this morning to help me stay focused on You. Give me words to speak to Your people today that are straight from Your throne.
Love,
Jeff
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Joshua's Pre-inauguration
Scripture:
Deuteronomy 31:23 "Then the Lord commissioned Joshua son of Nun with these words: 'Be strong and courageous, for you must bring the people of Israel into the land I swore to give them. I will be with you'".
Observation:
This sounds like a job anyone would like to accept. You are going to lead God's people into the promised land and God is going to be with you. The rest of the story helps us understand why Joshua would need to know the Lord was going to be with him. The next chapter in this text tells us that the people of Israel are going to rebel in the promise land and that God's judgment was going to come on them. It tells us that they are going to walk away from the Lord to follow other gods. In his pre-inauguration invitation, he is told to lead God's people, but that they would not follow and He would judge them for it.
Application:
When we give ourselves to God and ask Him to be in control of our lives, we have no rights any more. Our will must be to do the will of Him who died for us. Joshua wasn't given a job description, then told to choose whether he wanted the job or not. He was told he was taking over and that the people under his leadership were going to rebel. He is even told that God's judgment was going to come on them. He accepted a job description that anyone logically thinking would have run away from. I'm sure his wife was saying, "you don't have to take this position". He did it because it was God's will for his life, knowing it was going to be a very difficult thing.
Prayer:
Lord, teach me to say yes to You under all circumstances. Help me to accept Your will for my life instead of my own. The words "I will be with you" at the end of the verse today make it all worthwhile. Thank you for confirming with me that your presence will be with me as I continue to follow Your will for my life. Sometimes life is tough and I need your presence to be real to me in those times. Give me the heart of a Joshua who would accept a job description that nobody would want because it was Your will.
Yours,
Jeff
Deuteronomy 31:23 "Then the Lord commissioned Joshua son of Nun with these words: 'Be strong and courageous, for you must bring the people of Israel into the land I swore to give them. I will be with you'".
Observation:
This sounds like a job anyone would like to accept. You are going to lead God's people into the promised land and God is going to be with you. The rest of the story helps us understand why Joshua would need to know the Lord was going to be with him. The next chapter in this text tells us that the people of Israel are going to rebel in the promise land and that God's judgment was going to come on them. It tells us that they are going to walk away from the Lord to follow other gods. In his pre-inauguration invitation, he is told to lead God's people, but that they would not follow and He would judge them for it.
Application:
When we give ourselves to God and ask Him to be in control of our lives, we have no rights any more. Our will must be to do the will of Him who died for us. Joshua wasn't given a job description, then told to choose whether he wanted the job or not. He was told he was taking over and that the people under his leadership were going to rebel. He is even told that God's judgment was going to come on them. He accepted a job description that anyone logically thinking would have run away from. I'm sure his wife was saying, "you don't have to take this position". He did it because it was God's will for his life, knowing it was going to be a very difficult thing.
Prayer:
Lord, teach me to say yes to You under all circumstances. Help me to accept Your will for my life instead of my own. The words "I will be with you" at the end of the verse today make it all worthwhile. Thank you for confirming with me that your presence will be with me as I continue to follow Your will for my life. Sometimes life is tough and I need your presence to be real to me in those times. Give me the heart of a Joshua who would accept a job description that nobody would want because it was Your will.
Yours,
Jeff
Monday, April 26, 2010
Choices
Scripture:
Deuteronomy 30:15 "Now Listen! Today I am giving you a choice between life and death, between prosperity and disaster".
Observation:
Moses is speaking to to God's people about entering the Promised Land. He tells them going in that if they will wholeheartedly follow the Lord, that they will be blessed incredibly. If they obey His statutes, they will live and He will raise them up to see his blessings. He also says that if they don't follow Him and His ways, that they will be cursed. Moses is nearing the end of his plea for righteous living and tells them they have a choice between death and life, prosperity and disaster.
Application:
God always gives us options, but the choice is up to us. He always tells us how much He wants to bless us and prosper us, but then says we have a choice. Out choices determine our destiny. if we choose life and make godly choices, we will live. If we choose ways other than God's ways, we will walk in death and disaster. The choice is ours, will we choose life? Every choice has consequences and we know you will reap what you sow. In every choice, choose life! Choose to wholly follow the Lord! He will bless us for it.
Prayer:
Lord, I want to follow You completely and see You blessing in my life and family. I believe you so honor those who diligently follow You and that we have a choice in that. I make my choice to serve You with all my heart. I choose life in all of my decisions. Help me to stay the course and finish with excellence.
I love You Lord,
Jeff
Deuteronomy 30:15 "Now Listen! Today I am giving you a choice between life and death, between prosperity and disaster".
Observation:
Moses is speaking to to God's people about entering the Promised Land. He tells them going in that if they will wholeheartedly follow the Lord, that they will be blessed incredibly. If they obey His statutes, they will live and He will raise them up to see his blessings. He also says that if they don't follow Him and His ways, that they will be cursed. Moses is nearing the end of his plea for righteous living and tells them they have a choice between death and life, prosperity and disaster.
Application:
God always gives us options, but the choice is up to us. He always tells us how much He wants to bless us and prosper us, but then says we have a choice. Out choices determine our destiny. if we choose life and make godly choices, we will live. If we choose ways other than God's ways, we will walk in death and disaster. The choice is ours, will we choose life? Every choice has consequences and we know you will reap what you sow. In every choice, choose life! Choose to wholly follow the Lord! He will bless us for it.
Prayer:
Lord, I want to follow You completely and see You blessing in my life and family. I believe you so honor those who diligently follow You and that we have a choice in that. I make my choice to serve You with all my heart. I choose life in all of my decisions. Help me to stay the course and finish with excellence.
I love You Lord,
Jeff
Friday, April 23, 2010
He Will Give You The Vicotory
Scripture:
Deuteronomy 20:4 "For the Lord your God is going with you! He will fight for you against your enemies, and he will give you victory".
Observation:
God is speaking here to the people of Israel and He is telling them how to live when they enter the promised land. He is giving them a long list of laws, rules and regulations that they are to live by when they enter their own special land. When Israel went to battle, they were not like the others nations around them. The God of Israel would get involved in the battle and cause them to win if they were walking according to His ways. As long as they were living right, He would fight their battles. Surrounding nations were actually afraid because they recognized that Israel's fighting was supernatural ad they received supernatuaral help.
Application:
We must always remember that Jesus said "Lo I am with you always even to the end of the age". When God is with us, we can face any obstacle and win every battle. If God is for us, who can be against us? When the peopel of Israel would wholly follow the Lord, they would never lose, when they would partially follow the Lord, they would beginlosing battles. We must be people who wholly follow the Lord. When we do, we have nothig to worry about. He takes care of His own and will defend them.
Prayer:
Lord, thanks for showing me this verse today. I needed it! Thank you for speaking to me about walking with you and seeing you conquer every enemy. I love you and will serve you with all my heart. Fight my battle and bring me into the land you have prepared for me!
I love you,
Jeff
Deuteronomy 20:4 "For the Lord your God is going with you! He will fight for you against your enemies, and he will give you victory".
Observation:
God is speaking here to the people of Israel and He is telling them how to live when they enter the promised land. He is giving them a long list of laws, rules and regulations that they are to live by when they enter their own special land. When Israel went to battle, they were not like the others nations around them. The God of Israel would get involved in the battle and cause them to win if they were walking according to His ways. As long as they were living right, He would fight their battles. Surrounding nations were actually afraid because they recognized that Israel's fighting was supernatural ad they received supernatuaral help.
Application:
We must always remember that Jesus said "Lo I am with you always even to the end of the age". When God is with us, we can face any obstacle and win every battle. If God is for us, who can be against us? When the peopel of Israel would wholly follow the Lord, they would never lose, when they would partially follow the Lord, they would beginlosing battles. We must be people who wholly follow the Lord. When we do, we have nothig to worry about. He takes care of His own and will defend them.
Prayer:
Lord, thanks for showing me this verse today. I needed it! Thank you for speaking to me about walking with you and seeing you conquer every enemy. I love you and will serve you with all my heart. Fight my battle and bring me into the land you have prepared for me!
I love you,
Jeff
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
The Levites
Scripture:
Deteronomy 10:8 "At that time the Lord set apart the tribe of Levi to carry the ark of the Lord's Covenant, and to stand before the Lord as his ministers, and to pronounce blessings in His name. These are their duties to this day".
Observation:
Moses is recounting what God had done on behalf of Israel. How he brought them out of Egypt and gave them the Covenant in the wilderness. In this section, there is the job description of the tribe of Levi. He says they are to stand before the Lord as his ministers and to pronounce blessings in his name.
Application:
What a job description! The Levites were to stand before teh Lord and speak blessings in his name. Many times in ministry, I am pulled in so many directions and feel so busy with what has to be done, that it can be easy to take a little less time in the presence of the Lord because there are tasks that need finished. The priest was to stand before the Lord and pronounce blessings! The priest was to minister first and foremost to the Lord. Sometimes we get so caught up in ministering for the Lord, we forget to minister to the Lord. The speaking of blessings in the presence of the Lord is probably more powerful than spending hours counseling people in conflict.
Prayer:
Lord, teach me the power of time in Your presence. Help me to push aside all of the things that need to get done and seek your face. I want to spend time with you. Teach me to discipline my life to be able to get more accomplished in less time so that I don't neglect the most important thing I do which is spend time with You. Help me with my priorities! I need you to grow me in this area. I love being in your presence and speaking blessings more and anything else, but need to do it more.
Your Son,
Jeff
Deteronomy 10:8 "At that time the Lord set apart the tribe of Levi to carry the ark of the Lord's Covenant, and to stand before the Lord as his ministers, and to pronounce blessings in His name. These are their duties to this day".
Observation:
Moses is recounting what God had done on behalf of Israel. How he brought them out of Egypt and gave them the Covenant in the wilderness. In this section, there is the job description of the tribe of Levi. He says they are to stand before the Lord as his ministers and to pronounce blessings in his name.
Application:
What a job description! The Levites were to stand before teh Lord and speak blessings in his name. Many times in ministry, I am pulled in so many directions and feel so busy with what has to be done, that it can be easy to take a little less time in the presence of the Lord because there are tasks that need finished. The priest was to stand before the Lord and pronounce blessings! The priest was to minister first and foremost to the Lord. Sometimes we get so caught up in ministering for the Lord, we forget to minister to the Lord. The speaking of blessings in the presence of the Lord is probably more powerful than spending hours counseling people in conflict.
Prayer:
Lord, teach me the power of time in Your presence. Help me to push aside all of the things that need to get done and seek your face. I want to spend time with you. Teach me to discipline my life to be able to get more accomplished in less time so that I don't neglect the most important thing I do which is spend time with You. Help me with my priorities! I need you to grow me in this area. I love being in your presence and speaking blessings more and anything else, but need to do it more.
Your Son,
Jeff
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Don't Be Afraid or Discouraged
Scripture:
Deuteronomy 1:21 "Look! He has placed the land in front of you. Go and occupy it as the Lord, the God of your ancestors, has promised you. Don't be afraid! Don't be discrouaged!"
Observation:
Moses had brough the people of Israel out of Egypt. The Lord wanted him to go directly into the promised land and Moses was ready to go. Then the people said, "let's send spies in to look at the land". Moses felt this was a good idea and went with the flow. The spies came back with negative reports except Joshua and Caleb. The people got into an uproar instead of trusting God and God ended up punishing them by making them stay in the wilderness for 40 years. Onyl Joshua and Caleb got to remain alive to actually move into the Promised land.
Application:
When God gives you an open door, it will almost always seem impossible. Your flesh and rationalization will talk you out of going after it. God always asks us to do things that are beyond our abilities, this keeps us trusting in Him. When He gives us something to do that looks impossible, we should know we are right where He wants us. We must hear the words of this verse, "Don't be afraid! Don't be discouraged!" We can't let our courage leave us when difficulties come. If God said to do it, you can do it!
Prayer:
Lord, help me accomplish all You have given me in this life. Teach me not to rely on my own mind to figure out if I can do something or not. Teach me to rely completely on You and Your word. Help me not to be afraid or discouraged. I want to complete every assignment You give me on time and with Your power being displayed for all to see.
I Love You Lord,
Jeff
Deuteronomy 1:21 "Look! He has placed the land in front of you. Go and occupy it as the Lord, the God of your ancestors, has promised you. Don't be afraid! Don't be discrouaged!"
Observation:
Moses had brough the people of Israel out of Egypt. The Lord wanted him to go directly into the promised land and Moses was ready to go. Then the people said, "let's send spies in to look at the land". Moses felt this was a good idea and went with the flow. The spies came back with negative reports except Joshua and Caleb. The people got into an uproar instead of trusting God and God ended up punishing them by making them stay in the wilderness for 40 years. Onyl Joshua and Caleb got to remain alive to actually move into the Promised land.
Application:
When God gives you an open door, it will almost always seem impossible. Your flesh and rationalization will talk you out of going after it. God always asks us to do things that are beyond our abilities, this keeps us trusting in Him. When He gives us something to do that looks impossible, we should know we are right where He wants us. We must hear the words of this verse, "Don't be afraid! Don't be discouraged!" We can't let our courage leave us when difficulties come. If God said to do it, you can do it!
Prayer:
Lord, help me accomplish all You have given me in this life. Teach me not to rely on my own mind to figure out if I can do something or not. Teach me to rely completely on You and Your word. Help me not to be afraid or discouraged. I want to complete every assignment You give me on time and with Your power being displayed for all to see.
I Love You Lord,
Jeff
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Wholehearted Devotion Pays
Scripture:
Numbers 32:12 "The only exceptions are Caleb son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite and Joshua son of Nun, for they have wholeheartedly followed the Lord".
Observation:
The Exodus from Egypt was a huge event! Scholars differ about how many people actually left Egypt and traveled to the Promised Land, but it was a huge number into the millions of people. Of the men who left Egypt 20 years and above, only two would be allowed to enter the promised land. While thousands wanted to go back to Egypt, Joshua and Caleb wanted to settle in God's land of promise. While others saw giants and felt it was impossible, Joshua and Caleb believed GOd would give them the land and conquer their enemies. Joshua and Caleb were honored for their faith and were the only men who left Egypt who were allowed to enter the promised land. God honors faith in Him!
Application:
When everyone wanted to turn back and felt like giving up because of some difficulties, Joshua and Caleb exercised faith in God. When the circumstances of life leave you feeling like there is no hope, you must hold onto God and trust Him even more at that point. There is a reward for those who wholeheartedly follow the Lord. They get to do things that others don't. They get to see God move mightily. People of faith, who truly trust God in every area of life are few, but these people are world shakers. God always asks us to do things that are out of our comfort zone and that are not easy because it will cause us to have to trust Him. most of us never step out and go for it because we fear failure. Step out and believe God will do what He says He will do.
Prayer:
Lord, I want to live a life of faith. I want to enter the promised land and wholeheartedly follow You. Help me to do all that you put in my heart. Help me to fear nothing but You and finish every job You have given me to do. Help me not be discouraged by the present, but remain in faith when things are not progressing as fast as I want them to.
Yours,
Jeff
Numbers 32:12 "The only exceptions are Caleb son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite and Joshua son of Nun, for they have wholeheartedly followed the Lord".
Observation:
The Exodus from Egypt was a huge event! Scholars differ about how many people actually left Egypt and traveled to the Promised Land, but it was a huge number into the millions of people. Of the men who left Egypt 20 years and above, only two would be allowed to enter the promised land. While thousands wanted to go back to Egypt, Joshua and Caleb wanted to settle in God's land of promise. While others saw giants and felt it was impossible, Joshua and Caleb believed GOd would give them the land and conquer their enemies. Joshua and Caleb were honored for their faith and were the only men who left Egypt who were allowed to enter the promised land. God honors faith in Him!
Application:
When everyone wanted to turn back and felt like giving up because of some difficulties, Joshua and Caleb exercised faith in God. When the circumstances of life leave you feeling like there is no hope, you must hold onto God and trust Him even more at that point. There is a reward for those who wholeheartedly follow the Lord. They get to do things that others don't. They get to see God move mightily. People of faith, who truly trust God in every area of life are few, but these people are world shakers. God always asks us to do things that are out of our comfort zone and that are not easy because it will cause us to have to trust Him. most of us never step out and go for it because we fear failure. Step out and believe God will do what He says He will do.
Prayer:
Lord, I want to live a life of faith. I want to enter the promised land and wholeheartedly follow You. Help me to do all that you put in my heart. Help me to fear nothing but You and finish every job You have given me to do. Help me not be discouraged by the present, but remain in faith when things are not progressing as fast as I want them to.
Yours,
Jeff
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Additional Offerings
Scripture:
Numbers 29:39 "You must present these offerings to the Lord at your annual festivals. These are in addition to the sacrifices and offerings you present in connection with vows, or as voluntary offerings, burnt offerings, grain offerings, liquid offerings, or peace offerings".
Observation:
God required certain offerings and sacrifices every day in Israel. Periodically, during special events and special festivals, additional offerings were required. These were in addition to the regular offerings that needed to be offered every day. It seems like a lot of offerings and sacrifices just for their regular days, then periodically they would have to offer far over and above their regular in honor of the Lord.
Application:
God likes it when His people give over and above their normal. He is honored when we live by faith and give something extra periodically. In the Old Testament it was Law, in the New Covenant it is the spirit of the Law. We are not "required" to give over and above at certain festivals each year, but the spirit of the Law says that God would be honored if we periodically gave over and above our regular offerings and sacrifices to honor the Lord. As we give sacrificially to the Lord, He is honored and finds ways to bring His blessing into our lives. You cannot outgive God!
Prayer:
Thank you Lord for speaking to me about my missions faith promise this morning. I will increase it. I want to give liberally to You and Your kingdom. Give me the faith to give abundantly and trust You to take care of me. I want to be a hilarious giver. I ask you to bless my life financially, that I may be a blessing more and more to You kingdom. I will give additional offerings to advance Your kingdom throughout the earth. Take care of my family's needs as we sow into Your kingdom.
Your Son,
Jeff
Numbers 29:39 "You must present these offerings to the Lord at your annual festivals. These are in addition to the sacrifices and offerings you present in connection with vows, or as voluntary offerings, burnt offerings, grain offerings, liquid offerings, or peace offerings".
Observation:
God required certain offerings and sacrifices every day in Israel. Periodically, during special events and special festivals, additional offerings were required. These were in addition to the regular offerings that needed to be offered every day. It seems like a lot of offerings and sacrifices just for their regular days, then periodically they would have to offer far over and above their regular in honor of the Lord.
Application:
God likes it when His people give over and above their normal. He is honored when we live by faith and give something extra periodically. In the Old Testament it was Law, in the New Covenant it is the spirit of the Law. We are not "required" to give over and above at certain festivals each year, but the spirit of the Law says that God would be honored if we periodically gave over and above our regular offerings and sacrifices to honor the Lord. As we give sacrificially to the Lord, He is honored and finds ways to bring His blessing into our lives. You cannot outgive God!
Prayer:
Thank you Lord for speaking to me about my missions faith promise this morning. I will increase it. I want to give liberally to You and Your kingdom. Give me the faith to give abundantly and trust You to take care of me. I want to be a hilarious giver. I ask you to bless my life financially, that I may be a blessing more and more to You kingdom. I will give additional offerings to advance Your kingdom throughout the earth. Take care of my family's needs as we sow into Your kingdom.
Your Son,
Jeff
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Succession
Scripture:
Numbers 27:18-19 "Take Joshua son of Nun, who has the Spirit in him, and lay your hands on him. Present him to Eleazar the priest before the whole community, and publicly commission him to lead the people".
Observation:
Moses is nearing the end of his life and he speaks to the Lord. He asks the Lord to appoint a leader to lead the people so they will not be like sheep without a shepherd. The Lord tells him to take Joshua, who has the Spirit in him and lay hands on him publicly showing the transfer of anointing for the job ahead of him. This owuld let the people know that God had selected Joshua to lead them. Moses, a real leader of leaders, wanted to make sure their was a successor who could take the people into the promised land.
Application:
It is said that there is no success without a successor. Joshua had served under Moses for many many years. Now it was his time to rise up and lead Israel. He was with Moses in the wilderness. He was there through the good times and the bad times. He had been faithful in supporting his leader and now it was his time to lead. Moses saw the need to have someone ready to lead Israel. He knew they would not succeed unless they had a leader who knew how to hear from God. Real success is not just leading people, but raising leaders who can be trusted to lead. A leader must see the long term and prepare for the future. Moses was looking at the future and preparing God's people for his departure.
Prayer:
Lord, teach me to be a leader of leaders. I want to understand how to be a better leader. Teach me how to truly build leaders. Show me how to best train people and place them into the body that the body may be strong. Lord, I need your help to guide me into being a strong leader. I ask you to show me step by step and day by day. I want to be a developer of people for your kingdom. Show me the way forward.
Yours,
Jeff
Numbers 27:18-19 "Take Joshua son of Nun, who has the Spirit in him, and lay your hands on him. Present him to Eleazar the priest before the whole community, and publicly commission him to lead the people".
Observation:
Moses is nearing the end of his life and he speaks to the Lord. He asks the Lord to appoint a leader to lead the people so they will not be like sheep without a shepherd. The Lord tells him to take Joshua, who has the Spirit in him and lay hands on him publicly showing the transfer of anointing for the job ahead of him. This owuld let the people know that God had selected Joshua to lead them. Moses, a real leader of leaders, wanted to make sure their was a successor who could take the people into the promised land.
Application:
It is said that there is no success without a successor. Joshua had served under Moses for many many years. Now it was his time to rise up and lead Israel. He was with Moses in the wilderness. He was there through the good times and the bad times. He had been faithful in supporting his leader and now it was his time to lead. Moses saw the need to have someone ready to lead Israel. He knew they would not succeed unless they had a leader who knew how to hear from God. Real success is not just leading people, but raising leaders who can be trusted to lead. A leader must see the long term and prepare for the future. Moses was looking at the future and preparing God's people for his departure.
Prayer:
Lord, teach me to be a leader of leaders. I want to understand how to be a better leader. Teach me how to truly build leaders. Show me how to best train people and place them into the body that the body may be strong. Lord, I need your help to guide me into being a strong leader. I ask you to show me step by step and day by day. I want to be a developer of people for your kingdom. Show me the way forward.
Yours,
Jeff
Monday, April 12, 2010
Don't Sell Your Tongue
Scripture:
Numbers 22:38 "Look, now I have come, but I have no power to say whatever I want. I will speak only the message that God puts in my mouth".
Observation:
Balak was trying to buy out Balaam by giving him money to curse Israel because he knew that whatever Balaam cursed would be cursed and whatever he blessed would be blessed. He knew Balaam was a man of God and that God would answer his prayer. What he didn't realize was that Balaam's tongue belonged to God and he wouldn't say anything that the Lord didn't tell him to say. When it came time to curse Israel, he couldnot curse what God had blessed. Balaam says, "I have no power to say whatever I want. I will speak on the message that God puts in my mouth".
Application:
We need to be careful with our words. Many times we say things that God wouldn't say because we are in a certain predicament. Maybe we don't want to hurt someone's feelings. Many times we water down what we feel God is wanting to say because it seems too hard. James said the hardest part of the human body to tame is the tongue. We need to bring our tongues to the Lord and sanctify them. We need to say only what God is saying and what He puts in our hearts. As a minister of the Gospel I must say only what God is saying and all of what God is saying.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to speak only what You are saying and all of what You are saying. Help me not to be influenced by the opinions of man, but by the conviction of the Holy Spirit working in my life. I consecrate my tongue, let it be something You can use for Your glory. I ask You to keep it speaking what You want spoken. Help me not to add to or take away from what You want to say to Your people. Lead me Holy Spirit.
I Love You,
Jeff
Numbers 22:38 "Look, now I have come, but I have no power to say whatever I want. I will speak only the message that God puts in my mouth".
Observation:
Balak was trying to buy out Balaam by giving him money to curse Israel because he knew that whatever Balaam cursed would be cursed and whatever he blessed would be blessed. He knew Balaam was a man of God and that God would answer his prayer. What he didn't realize was that Balaam's tongue belonged to God and he wouldn't say anything that the Lord didn't tell him to say. When it came time to curse Israel, he couldnot curse what God had blessed. Balaam says, "I have no power to say whatever I want. I will speak on the message that God puts in my mouth".
Application:
We need to be careful with our words. Many times we say things that God wouldn't say because we are in a certain predicament. Maybe we don't want to hurt someone's feelings. Many times we water down what we feel God is wanting to say because it seems too hard. James said the hardest part of the human body to tame is the tongue. We need to bring our tongues to the Lord and sanctify them. We need to say only what God is saying and what He puts in our hearts. As a minister of the Gospel I must say only what God is saying and all of what God is saying.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to speak only what You are saying and all of what You are saying. Help me not to be influenced by the opinions of man, but by the conviction of the Holy Spirit working in my life. I consecrate my tongue, let it be something You can use for Your glory. I ask You to keep it speaking what You want spoken. Help me not to add to or take away from what You want to say to Your people. Lead me Holy Spirit.
I Love You,
Jeff
Thursday, April 8, 2010
The One I Trust
Scripture:
Numbers 12:8 "But not with my servant Moses. Of all my house, he is the one I trust. I speak to him face to face, clearly, and not in riddles! He sees the Lord as He is. So why were you not afraid to criticize my servant Moses?"
Observation:
Aaron and Miriam began to criticize Moses because he had married a Cushite woman. They began to question his leadership and feel as though they were equals with him. God called all three of them to the Tabernacle and Miriam was struck with leprosy. As God is speaking to them about their disrespect for Moses, He says of Moses, "This is the one I trust". God goes on the say that He could talk to Moses face to face.
Application:
When God trusts you, He knows He can reveal Himself in greater ways to you. Moses was the most humble man in the entire earth, yet was a leader of leaders. Because of his humility, God knew he could trust Moses. As we grow in humility and obedience, God begins to trust us more. As He grows in trusting us, He will reveal Himself further to us. This morning I hear the Lord saying, "Can I trust you?" I believe God wants to do great things in the earth today, but is looking for people He can trust fully.
Prayer:
Father, I want to be a trustworthy son. I want to know you like Moses knew You. I want to talk with You face to face. I want to hear Your voice clearly. Help me to walk in humility and obedience that You may trust me more. I want to be fully obedient to You in every area of my life.
Yours,
Jeff
Numbers 12:8 "But not with my servant Moses. Of all my house, he is the one I trust. I speak to him face to face, clearly, and not in riddles! He sees the Lord as He is. So why were you not afraid to criticize my servant Moses?"
Observation:
Aaron and Miriam began to criticize Moses because he had married a Cushite woman. They began to question his leadership and feel as though they were equals with him. God called all three of them to the Tabernacle and Miriam was struck with leprosy. As God is speaking to them about their disrespect for Moses, He says of Moses, "This is the one I trust". God goes on the say that He could talk to Moses face to face.
Application:
When God trusts you, He knows He can reveal Himself in greater ways to you. Moses was the most humble man in the entire earth, yet was a leader of leaders. Because of his humility, God knew he could trust Moses. As we grow in humility and obedience, God begins to trust us more. As He grows in trusting us, He will reveal Himself further to us. This morning I hear the Lord saying, "Can I trust you?" I believe God wants to do great things in the earth today, but is looking for people He can trust fully.
Prayer:
Father, I want to be a trustworthy son. I want to know you like Moses knew You. I want to talk with You face to face. I want to hear Your voice clearly. Help me to walk in humility and obedience that You may trust me more. I want to be fully obedient to You in every area of my life.
Yours,
Jeff
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Carrying Out God's Commands
Scripture:
Numbers 8:22 "So they carried out all the commands that the Lord gave Moses concerning the Levites".
Observation:
Moses had been with the Lord and was continually speaking with the Lord. Everyone else was afraid to. They loved and respected the Lord so much that they were content to let Moses speak to Him and let him tell them what was said. They not only heard what was said, but carried out everything God spoke to them through Moses. It says here that they carried out all the commands.
Application:
The word "all" is a really powerful word because it is all-inclusive. It means that nothing was left undone of all the Lord had spoken to Moses. Many times in my Christian life I have felt the Lord speak to me about something that needed done. I can't say that "all" have been accomplished. I want to move from fulfilling "some" of what God has spoken to my heart to fulfilling "all" that God has spoken to my heart. I also see here that Moses would speak to God, and the people would do all that was told them. This is a picture of trusting your leader. They had to fully and completely trust Moses that what he was saying is what God told him in the tabernacle. Leadership really is trust!
Prayer:
Lord, help me to accomplish "all" that you have put into my heart. I don't want to leave one thing undone of all you have put into my trust. Sometimes I make excuses about not having time, help or money enough to do all You have given me. Help me to overcome this and give me faith to believe what You want done, You will pay for. Teach me to walk more and more by faith.
Jeff
Numbers 8:22 "So they carried out all the commands that the Lord gave Moses concerning the Levites".
Observation:
Moses had been with the Lord and was continually speaking with the Lord. Everyone else was afraid to. They loved and respected the Lord so much that they were content to let Moses speak to Him and let him tell them what was said. They not only heard what was said, but carried out everything God spoke to them through Moses. It says here that they carried out all the commands.
Application:
The word "all" is a really powerful word because it is all-inclusive. It means that nothing was left undone of all the Lord had spoken to Moses. Many times in my Christian life I have felt the Lord speak to me about something that needed done. I can't say that "all" have been accomplished. I want to move from fulfilling "some" of what God has spoken to my heart to fulfilling "all" that God has spoken to my heart. I also see here that Moses would speak to God, and the people would do all that was told them. This is a picture of trusting your leader. They had to fully and completely trust Moses that what he was saying is what God told him in the tabernacle. Leadership really is trust!
Prayer:
Lord, help me to accomplish "all" that you have put into my heart. I don't want to leave one thing undone of all you have put into my trust. Sometimes I make excuses about not having time, help or money enough to do all You have given me. Help me to overcome this and give me faith to believe what You want done, You will pay for. Teach me to walk more and more by faith.
Jeff
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Speaking Blessing
Scripture:
Numbers 6:27 "Whenever Aaron and his sons bless the people of Israel in my name, I myself will bless them".
Observation:
God had just spoken to Moses and told them to bless the people with this special blessing, "May the Lord bless you and protect you. May the Lord mile on you and be gracious to you. May the Lord show you his favor and give you his peace". The Lord then says that whenever Aaron and his sons speak this blessing, the Lord would bless them himself. They are basically told to speak blessing and God would bring it pass.
Application:
Our words are powerful and God uses them to bless or curse. The power of death and life are in our tongues. As a kingdom of priests, when we speak blessing, God enforces our blessing. God will back up the words of his children. I believe there is a very real release when we speak blessing over people. Jesus told us to bless even our enemies. We need to allow our tongues to be fountains of blessings.
Prayer:
Lord, let my mouth bring you glory and bring about the blessing of your people. Teach me deeper the power of the spoken blessing. Show me how to implement it in my life. I want those around me to be blessed. I give you my tongue and ask you to fill it with your words. Let it be used to bring about your good and perfect will.
Thanks for Speaking to Me,
Jeff
Numbers 6:27 "Whenever Aaron and his sons bless the people of Israel in my name, I myself will bless them".
Observation:
God had just spoken to Moses and told them to bless the people with this special blessing, "May the Lord bless you and protect you. May the Lord mile on you and be gracious to you. May the Lord show you his favor and give you his peace". The Lord then says that whenever Aaron and his sons speak this blessing, the Lord would bless them himself. They are basically told to speak blessing and God would bring it pass.
Application:
Our words are powerful and God uses them to bless or curse. The power of death and life are in our tongues. As a kingdom of priests, when we speak blessing, God enforces our blessing. God will back up the words of his children. I believe there is a very real release when we speak blessing over people. Jesus told us to bless even our enemies. We need to allow our tongues to be fountains of blessings.
Prayer:
Lord, let my mouth bring you glory and bring about the blessing of your people. Teach me deeper the power of the spoken blessing. Show me how to implement it in my life. I want those around me to be blessed. I give you my tongue and ask you to fill it with your words. Let it be used to bring about your good and perfect will.
Thanks for Speaking to Me,
Jeff
Monday, April 5, 2010
A Kingdom of Priests
Scripture:
Numbers 3:41 "The Levites must be reserved for me as substitutes for the firstborn sons of Israel; I am the Lord, and the Levites' livestock must be reserved for Me as substitutes for the firstborn livestock of the whole nation of Israel".
Observation:
The Levites, or priestly tribe, were to be separated from the rest and were to serve as substitutes for the firstborn of Israel. Throughout time, God has searched for and desired a people who would be completely His because He wants to be their God and for them to be His people. The Levites were set apart to serve only the Lord and to take care of everything that has to do with worship and serving the Lord.
Application:
Under the New Covenant we are called a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation. Through Jesus, what God had always desired has become possible. We are to be a kingdom of priests who walk with the Lord and are set apart for Him alone. He wants to be our God and wants us to be completely His. He wants us to be separated for His purposes and not our own. We must learn to focus on Him ad His will for our lives instead of living selfishly and doing only what we want to do or what feels good to us. We are to be a kingdom of priests who completely belong to the Lord.
Prayer:
Lord, separate my life for your purposes. I want to live to fulfill Your will and not my own. I want to build Your kingdom and advance Your cause. Help me to serve as a priest for my generation. I want to more fully focus on You in my life. Teach me to organize my life that I may have more time to spend with You. Help me to re-prioritize my life that I may have time to spend as priest in Your kingdom.
Yours Completely,
Jeff
Numbers 3:41 "The Levites must be reserved for me as substitutes for the firstborn sons of Israel; I am the Lord, and the Levites' livestock must be reserved for Me as substitutes for the firstborn livestock of the whole nation of Israel".
Observation:
The Levites, or priestly tribe, were to be separated from the rest and were to serve as substitutes for the firstborn of Israel. Throughout time, God has searched for and desired a people who would be completely His because He wants to be their God and for them to be His people. The Levites were set apart to serve only the Lord and to take care of everything that has to do with worship and serving the Lord.
Application:
Under the New Covenant we are called a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation. Through Jesus, what God had always desired has become possible. We are to be a kingdom of priests who walk with the Lord and are set apart for Him alone. He wants to be our God and wants us to be completely His. He wants us to be separated for His purposes and not our own. We must learn to focus on Him ad His will for our lives instead of living selfishly and doing only what we want to do or what feels good to us. We are to be a kingdom of priests who completely belong to the Lord.
Prayer:
Lord, separate my life for your purposes. I want to live to fulfill Your will and not my own. I want to build Your kingdom and advance Your cause. Help me to serve as a priest for my generation. I want to more fully focus on You in my life. Teach me to organize my life that I may have more time to spend with You. Help me to re-prioritize my life that I may have time to spend as priest in Your kingdom.
Yours Completely,
Jeff
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