Scripture:
John 16:33 "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".
Observation:
Jesus had been telling His disciples about His death and resurrection. He was telling them that it was better for him to go away because if he went away, he could send the Holy Spirit. He told them that the Holy Spirit would help them and that if they asked anything in Jesus' name, it would happen. he then throws in these words, "Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows". Isn't that comforting? He told them that they could ask anything, yet they would have many sorrows. He ends by saying to take heart because he has overcome the world.
Application:
God never promised that following him was going to be easy. In fact he promised the opposite, but he also gave us the holy spirit to help us when we are weak and he let us know that we can take heart because he has overcome the world. One key to walking in victory is understanding that Jesus has overcome the world. We will have trials and tribulations in this life, but He has over come the world and sent his spirit to be with us through them. We can live in victory, not because we have no trials, but because he has overcome them! Place you trust in Him and let his spirit work in you daily and you will overcome every obstacle.
Prayer:
Lord, teach us to lean on the holy spirit every day. Help u to live from the perspective of knowing that you have already overcome the world. When trials and difficulties come, help us walk through them with victorious faith.
Your Son,
Jeff
Friday, May 28, 2010
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Knowing and Doing
Scripture:
John 13:17 "Now that you know these things, God will bless you for doing them".
Observation:
Jesus had been talking to His disciples about servanthood and had just washed their feet. He tells them that they need to do to each other what He had just done for them. At the end of this speaking on washing feet Jesus makes one statement that is so powerful that sometimes we miss it. He says, "Now that you know these things, God will bless you for doing them".
Application:
The blessing doesn't come on knowing God's word, but on doing it. You can know all of God's promises and know the Bible backwards and forwards, but if you don't do what it says, you can't be blessed. Many people want to be blessed, but they don't want to live a life that God can bless, then they get mad at God for not blessing them. God wants us to do what He says first, then His blessing will follow. One person may know little scripture and do it, another may know much, but do little. I'd rather be the one who knew little and did what he knew.
Prayer:
Lord, James said for us to be doers of the Word and not hearers only. Help me to apply Your Word to my life every day and begin to be better at "doing" what I know to do. I want to grow in the fruit of the Spirit. Help me as I give it my best try. I want to be a doer of what You Word says and I want my life to exemplify Christ.
I Love You Lord,
Jeff
John 13:17 "Now that you know these things, God will bless you for doing them".
Observation:
Jesus had been talking to His disciples about servanthood and had just washed their feet. He tells them that they need to do to each other what He had just done for them. At the end of this speaking on washing feet Jesus makes one statement that is so powerful that sometimes we miss it. He says, "Now that you know these things, God will bless you for doing them".
Application:
The blessing doesn't come on knowing God's word, but on doing it. You can know all of God's promises and know the Bible backwards and forwards, but if you don't do what it says, you can't be blessed. Many people want to be blessed, but they don't want to live a life that God can bless, then they get mad at God for not blessing them. God wants us to do what He says first, then His blessing will follow. One person may know little scripture and do it, another may know much, but do little. I'd rather be the one who knew little and did what he knew.
Prayer:
Lord, James said for us to be doers of the Word and not hearers only. Help me to apply Your Word to my life every day and begin to be better at "doing" what I know to do. I want to grow in the fruit of the Spirit. Help me as I give it my best try. I want to be a doer of what You Word says and I want my life to exemplify Christ.
I Love You Lord,
Jeff
Monday, May 24, 2010
Don't be Concerned
Scripture:
John 6:27 "But don't be so concerned about perishable things like food. Spend you energy seeking the eternal life that the Son of Man can give you. For God the Father has given me the seal of his approval".
Observation:
Jesus is declaring to be the bread of life. He is also telling the people that they are seeking a sign or a miracle instead of seeking him. He tells them that they shouldn't be so concerned about things that are perishing like food. He basically tells them they are focused on the wrong stuff. Instead of focusing on what they are going to eat, they should be focusing on eternal life.
Application:
Worry and stress is killing so many people today. People are so concerned about how they are going to survive and get their kids through college and retirement, that they are missing the big picture. Jesus tells us that our energy should be used to seek the Kingdom of God and eternal life. Let the Father take care of the little details as you take care of your spiritual life.
Prayer:
Lord, help me keep the main thing, the main thing. Keep me on track. Help me develop a stronger prayer life and teach me to keep my focus on eternal things. You are amazing.
Jeff
John 6:27 "But don't be so concerned about perishable things like food. Spend you energy seeking the eternal life that the Son of Man can give you. For God the Father has given me the seal of his approval".
Observation:
Jesus is declaring to be the bread of life. He is also telling the people that they are seeking a sign or a miracle instead of seeking him. He tells them that they shouldn't be so concerned about things that are perishing like food. He basically tells them they are focused on the wrong stuff. Instead of focusing on what they are going to eat, they should be focusing on eternal life.
Application:
Worry and stress is killing so many people today. People are so concerned about how they are going to survive and get their kids through college and retirement, that they are missing the big picture. Jesus tells us that our energy should be used to seek the Kingdom of God and eternal life. Let the Father take care of the little details as you take care of your spiritual life.
Prayer:
Lord, help me keep the main thing, the main thing. Keep me on track. Help me develop a stronger prayer life and teach me to keep my focus on eternal things. You are amazing.
Jeff
Friday, May 21, 2010
My Mission
Scripture:
Luke 19:10 "For the Son of Man has come to seek and save that which was lost".
Observation:
Jesus had just invited himself to the home of Zaccheus, who was a tax collector and sinner. The religious people of the day were upset that he would enter the home of and eat with a sinner and tax collector, which was the most dishonest profession someone could have. Jesus responds to those questioning him, "the Son of Man has come to seek and save that which was lost". He went right to the heart of his mission and didn't mind saying what his mission was.
Application:
If Jesus' mission was to seek and to save the lost, I want to be on the same mission. I want to see people come to Christ! I love being around sinners and people who are not saved. It keeps my mission before me at all times. We need to take on the mission of Jesus who was always looking for the next person to minister to. He was always seeking and always saving. Let's be about our father's business.
Prayer:
Lord, let me be more about your business. I want seeking and saving the lost to be more than just a statement that rolls out of my mouth, but a lifestyle of personal evangelism. Train me, teach me, help me keep my focus on seeking and saving that which was lost.
I Love You Lord,
Jeff
Luke 19:10 "For the Son of Man has come to seek and save that which was lost".
Observation:
Jesus had just invited himself to the home of Zaccheus, who was a tax collector and sinner. The religious people of the day were upset that he would enter the home of and eat with a sinner and tax collector, which was the most dishonest profession someone could have. Jesus responds to those questioning him, "the Son of Man has come to seek and save that which was lost". He went right to the heart of his mission and didn't mind saying what his mission was.
Application:
If Jesus' mission was to seek and to save the lost, I want to be on the same mission. I want to see people come to Christ! I love being around sinners and people who are not saved. It keeps my mission before me at all times. We need to take on the mission of Jesus who was always looking for the next person to minister to. He was always seeking and always saving. Let's be about our father's business.
Prayer:
Lord, let me be more about your business. I want seeking and saving the lost to be more than just a statement that rolls out of my mouth, but a lifestyle of personal evangelism. Train me, teach me, help me keep my focus on seeking and saving that which was lost.
I Love You Lord,
Jeff
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Repayment
Scripture:
Luke 18:29-30 "I assure you that everyone who has given up house or wife or brother or parents or children, for the sake of the Kingdom of God, will be repaid many times over in this life, and will have eternal life in the world to come".
Observation:
Jesus had just encountered the rich man who couldn't give up his possessions to enter the kingdom of heaven. Jesus tells them that it is very difficult for rich people to enter the kingdom and good old Peter says, "We've left our homes to follow you". Jesus responds with the verse of the day and tells him that everyone who las left things in this life for his sake and the kingdom will be repaid many times over in this life and will also receive eternal life.
Application:
Somtimes when you feel like you have given everything you have for the sake of the gospel and the kingdom, it is difficult. Other people seem to be progressing in their careers, buying cars, homes, etc and you are still just getting by in life and praying in every bill. When Jesus assures us of something, we can trust it will happen, just maybe not in our timing. He promised us that if we give up houses, lands, people etc., that it will come come back to us many times over in this life. I am trusting this every day for my family who has given up so much to follow the calling of God on my life. From this verse I know it is coming.
Prayer:
Lord, thank you for encourgaing me to keep on keeping on and to trust you with my personal finances. Sometimes I struggle when I see others excel in life and have financial stability when I seem to have to trust you for every day. Thank you for reminding me that there is a repayment for things we have missed out on and that it is IN THIS LIFE. I'm looking for it based on this verse.
Love you Lord and will serve Your completely even if it doesn't happen,
Jeff
Luke 18:29-30 "I assure you that everyone who has given up house or wife or brother or parents or children, for the sake of the Kingdom of God, will be repaid many times over in this life, and will have eternal life in the world to come".
Observation:
Jesus had just encountered the rich man who couldn't give up his possessions to enter the kingdom of heaven. Jesus tells them that it is very difficult for rich people to enter the kingdom and good old Peter says, "We've left our homes to follow you". Jesus responds with the verse of the day and tells him that everyone who las left things in this life for his sake and the kingdom will be repaid many times over in this life and will also receive eternal life.
Application:
Somtimes when you feel like you have given everything you have for the sake of the gospel and the kingdom, it is difficult. Other people seem to be progressing in their careers, buying cars, homes, etc and you are still just getting by in life and praying in every bill. When Jesus assures us of something, we can trust it will happen, just maybe not in our timing. He promised us that if we give up houses, lands, people etc., that it will come come back to us many times over in this life. I am trusting this every day for my family who has given up so much to follow the calling of God on my life. From this verse I know it is coming.
Prayer:
Lord, thank you for encourgaing me to keep on keeping on and to trust you with my personal finances. Sometimes I struggle when I see others excel in life and have financial stability when I seem to have to trust you for every day. Thank you for reminding me that there is a repayment for things we have missed out on and that it is IN THIS LIFE. I'm looking for it based on this verse.
Love you Lord and will serve Your completely even if it doesn't happen,
Jeff
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Take the Lowest Place
Scripture:
Luke 14:10 "Instead, take the lowest place at the foot of the table. Then when your host sees you, he will come and say, 'Friend, we have a better place for you!' Then you will be honored in front of all the other guests".
Observation:
Jesus is teaching about humility and uses a wedding feast to talk about it. He says not to take the seats of honor, but the cheap seats. He says that if you take the honorable seats, the host may have to come and put you somewhere else when someone more important arrives. He says it is better to take the lowest place and if the host wants you to have a better place, then he can give it to you and honor you in front of everyone.
Application:
As believers, God wants us to walk in humility. He desires us to humble ourselves in every situation of life. You are much better off humbling yourself and being exalted, than promoting yourself and realizing people don't see you the same way you see yourself. If we can humble ourselves, God will exalt us. In every area of life, take the lowest place and let God build you up. Humble yourself and let God do the work.
Prayer:
Lord, teach me to follow your example by humbling myself and taking on the form of a servant. I want to live a life that the world can look at and say "that person acts just like Jesus". Show me how to love more like you, to be more humble like you. Show me how to accept people more like you. I want to truly be a follower of Jesus Christ. I want every teaching you spoke about to be evident in my life.
Your Son,
Jeff
Luke 14:10 "Instead, take the lowest place at the foot of the table. Then when your host sees you, he will come and say, 'Friend, we have a better place for you!' Then you will be honored in front of all the other guests".
Observation:
Jesus is teaching about humility and uses a wedding feast to talk about it. He says not to take the seats of honor, but the cheap seats. He says that if you take the honorable seats, the host may have to come and put you somewhere else when someone more important arrives. He says it is better to take the lowest place and if the host wants you to have a better place, then he can give it to you and honor you in front of everyone.
Application:
As believers, God wants us to walk in humility. He desires us to humble ourselves in every situation of life. You are much better off humbling yourself and being exalted, than promoting yourself and realizing people don't see you the same way you see yourself. If we can humble ourselves, God will exalt us. In every area of life, take the lowest place and let God build you up. Humble yourself and let God do the work.
Prayer:
Lord, teach me to follow your example by humbling myself and taking on the form of a servant. I want to live a life that the world can look at and say "that person acts just like Jesus". Show me how to love more like you, to be more humble like you. Show me how to accept people more like you. I want to truly be a follower of Jesus Christ. I want every teaching you spoke about to be evident in my life.
Your Son,
Jeff
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
No Dark Corners
Scripture:
Luke 11:36 "If you are filled with light, with no dark corners, then your whole life will be radiant, as though a floodlight were filling you with light".
Observation:
Jesus is teaching about letting your light shine before men. He precedes this by saying, "No on lights a lamp and then hides it or puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it can be seen by all who enter the house". Jesus wants us to be filled with light completely. He wants no dark corners. he wants us to shine before men so they may glorify our father in heaven. There is no doubt about it, He wants His people to shine.
Application:
This verse really spoke to me this morning. The words "no dark corners" especially leaped off the page to me. I want God's light to shine through my life the strongest it can. In order for that to happen, there can be no dark corners. I equate dark corners to those little areas of disobedience in our lives. God wants us to walk in the full light of the gospel and for us to shine to those around us. Therefore, we can't afford to have any dark corners in our lives. God must be in control of every part of our lives and there can be no areas of disobedience. Then we will radiate his glory and presence stronger and stronger.
Prayer:
Lord, I want to walk in complete obedience to You. I want no dark corners! I ask you to forgive me for the times I have not fully obeyed something I believe You put in my heart. Forgive me for the little areas of disobedience. I want to radiate Your glory that the world may see the awesomeness of my God. You are amazing and I want to represent You well. Help me do it.
Your Son,
Jeff
Luke 11:36 "If you are filled with light, with no dark corners, then your whole life will be radiant, as though a floodlight were filling you with light".
Observation:
Jesus is teaching about letting your light shine before men. He precedes this by saying, "No on lights a lamp and then hides it or puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it can be seen by all who enter the house". Jesus wants us to be filled with light completely. He wants no dark corners. he wants us to shine before men so they may glorify our father in heaven. There is no doubt about it, He wants His people to shine.
Application:
This verse really spoke to me this morning. The words "no dark corners" especially leaped off the page to me. I want God's light to shine through my life the strongest it can. In order for that to happen, there can be no dark corners. I equate dark corners to those little areas of disobedience in our lives. God wants us to walk in the full light of the gospel and for us to shine to those around us. Therefore, we can't afford to have any dark corners in our lives. God must be in control of every part of our lives and there can be no areas of disobedience. Then we will radiate his glory and presence stronger and stronger.
Prayer:
Lord, I want to walk in complete obedience to You. I want no dark corners! I ask you to forgive me for the times I have not fully obeyed something I believe You put in my heart. Forgive me for the little areas of disobedience. I want to radiate Your glory that the world may see the awesomeness of my God. You are amazing and I want to represent You well. Help me do it.
Your Son,
Jeff
Monday, May 17, 2010
Who Do You Say I Am?
Scripture:
Luke 9:20 "Then He asked them, 'But who do you say I am?'"
Observation:
Jesus was in conversation with his disciples and he asked them what people thought of him. he asked them who people said he was. They replied that some said John the Baptist of a prophet. Jesus returns with another question: "Who do you say I am?"
Application:
Jesus is concerned about how we view him. He first ask what people said about him. Then he made it very personal by asking who they disciples thought he was. Jesus wants us to know him personally. He wants relationship with us and for us to know him deeply. Who you believe he is will affect what and how you respond and react to him. We must believe what the word of God says about him and not what the common opinion of those around us think.
Prayer:
Lord, I tell you all the time: You're my savior, deliverer, my healer, my strength, my Lord, my friend, my shield and my buckler. You are my everything! There is no one like you. You are my hiding place, my restorer, my trainer and I give you my life completely for your purposes. You're the best!
Jeff Jacob
Luke 9:20 "Then He asked them, 'But who do you say I am?'"
Observation:
Jesus was in conversation with his disciples and he asked them what people thought of him. he asked them who people said he was. They replied that some said John the Baptist of a prophet. Jesus returns with another question: "Who do you say I am?"
Application:
Jesus is concerned about how we view him. He first ask what people said about him. Then he made it very personal by asking who they disciples thought he was. Jesus wants us to know him personally. He wants relationship with us and for us to know him deeply. Who you believe he is will affect what and how you respond and react to him. We must believe what the word of God says about him and not what the common opinion of those around us think.
Prayer:
Lord, I tell you all the time: You're my savior, deliverer, my healer, my strength, my Lord, my friend, my shield and my buckler. You are my everything! There is no one like you. You are my hiding place, my restorer, my trainer and I give you my life completely for your purposes. You're the best!
Jeff Jacob
Friday, May 14, 2010
Everywhere
Scripture:
Mark 16:20 "And the disciples went everywhere and preached, and the Lord worked through them, confirming what they said by many miraculous signs".
Observation:
Jesus had just ascended to heaven after His death and resurrection. His disciples had a hard time believing that He had risen from the dead until they were able to walk with Him and talk with Him, but after His ascension, he worked through them. They went EVERYWHERE! They didn't wait for a specific leading or calling to preach the Gospel. The went EVERYWHERE! As they went, God confirmed what they were saying with signs and wonders. The Lord who had worked in front of them was now working through them.
Application:
We don't have to wait for a sign or a confirmation of where to preach the Gospel. The disciples, our examples, just went everywhere. They didn't wait for some special revelation, they just began winning souls and making disciples. Sometimes we feel like we need some special calling or anointing to preach the Gospel. God just wants our availability. He will still work through us as we preach. If we don't go and preach, He can't work through us to confirm what we are saying. He wants to work in signs and wonders, but we have to do our part EVERYWHERE!
Prayer:
Lord, help me to preach the Gospel EVERYWHERE I go. Help me to keep it simple like the early disciples. They simply went everywhere and preached and you worked through them. Work through me as I go. I want to build Your kingdom! I want to wins souls and make disciples. As I get the boldness to preach, work with me to confirm what I say.
Love you,
Jeff
Mark 16:20 "And the disciples went everywhere and preached, and the Lord worked through them, confirming what they said by many miraculous signs".
Observation:
Jesus had just ascended to heaven after His death and resurrection. His disciples had a hard time believing that He had risen from the dead until they were able to walk with Him and talk with Him, but after His ascension, he worked through them. They went EVERYWHERE! They didn't wait for a specific leading or calling to preach the Gospel. The went EVERYWHERE! As they went, God confirmed what they were saying with signs and wonders. The Lord who had worked in front of them was now working through them.
Application:
We don't have to wait for a sign or a confirmation of where to preach the Gospel. The disciples, our examples, just went everywhere. They didn't wait for some special revelation, they just began winning souls and making disciples. Sometimes we feel like we need some special calling or anointing to preach the Gospel. God just wants our availability. He will still work through us as we preach. If we don't go and preach, He can't work through us to confirm what we are saying. He wants to work in signs and wonders, but we have to do our part EVERYWHERE!
Prayer:
Lord, help me to preach the Gospel EVERYWHERE I go. Help me to keep it simple like the early disciples. They simply went everywhere and preached and you worked through them. Work through me as I go. I want to build Your kingdom! I want to wins souls and make disciples. As I get the boldness to preach, work with me to confirm what I say.
Love you,
Jeff
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Look Up!
Scripture:
Mark 13:29 "In the same way, when you see all these things taking place, you can know that his return is very near, right at the door".
Observation:
Jesus is speaking to His disciples about the end of the age and His return. He gives a list of things that will begin to happen when His return is near. He says that when these tings begin to happen, His return is very near and even right at the door.
Application:
I have heard prophecy teaching all my life and honestly it has kept me on the straight and narrow. Having heard these things since childhood, and now watching them on the news happening all over the earth, I am looking up and getting ready for the rapture of the church and the second coming of Christ. The things Christ said would happen at the end of the age are happening all around us on a daily basis right now. Reading the front of the newspaper is like reading the back of the Bible. Now is the time to begin looking up, for our redemption draws near!
Prayer:
Lord, I see the signs of Your return. Put is deep in my spirit so that it will be on my mind and in my heart all the time. Help me get others ready. I want to take as many with me as possible. I ask you to work in my heart about the importance of working in the harvest fields quickly. Time is of essence. Help me keep my focus right.
I Love You and Can't Wait to see You face to Face!
Jeff
Mark 13:29 "In the same way, when you see all these things taking place, you can know that his return is very near, right at the door".
Observation:
Jesus is speaking to His disciples about the end of the age and His return. He gives a list of things that will begin to happen when His return is near. He says that when these tings begin to happen, His return is very near and even right at the door.
Application:
I have heard prophecy teaching all my life and honestly it has kept me on the straight and narrow. Having heard these things since childhood, and now watching them on the news happening all over the earth, I am looking up and getting ready for the rapture of the church and the second coming of Christ. The things Christ said would happen at the end of the age are happening all around us on a daily basis right now. Reading the front of the newspaper is like reading the back of the Bible. Now is the time to begin looking up, for our redemption draws near!
Prayer:
Lord, I see the signs of Your return. Put is deep in my spirit so that it will be on my mind and in my heart all the time. Help me get others ready. I want to take as many with me as possible. I ask you to work in my heart about the importance of working in the harvest fields quickly. Time is of essence. Help me keep my focus right.
I Love You and Can't Wait to see You face to Face!
Jeff
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Everything is Possible with God
Scripture:
Mark 10:27 "Humanly speaking it is impossible. But not with God. Everything is possible with God".
Observation:
This verse is the ending of the story of the rich young ruler, or what others call the poor young pauper. He was not able to sell everything and follower Jesus. Therefore he chose his possessions over following Christ. Jesus says after this that it is very hard for rich people to enter the kingdom of heaven. The disciples asked him then, who can be saved? Jesus replied that humanly speaking it is impossible for the rich to be saved, but with God all things are possible.
Application:
Some things are hard, but with God all things are possible! I live in the wealthiest county in America and have struggled to build the church and win the lost in this region because they have everything and don't feel they "need" God in their lives. Though they don't "feel" they need Him, they do and this morning I am determined that all people can be reached for Jesus. He saves the rich, the poor, and everyone in between. All things are possible for Him and Word of Life will see all strata of society touched for God's glory.
Prayer:
Lord, it is truly difficult to reach the wealthy and middle class of America, but it is not impossible. Let the convicting power of Your Spirit be on my life to reach this area for your glory. Give me the words to speak, the power to walk in, the anointing of Your Spirit and the ability to share Christ in this region and let me be effective in doing it. Give us this city Lord. You said it is possible and I am not giving up till I see you work powerfully among this population.
Love You Much,
Jeff
Mark 10:27 "Humanly speaking it is impossible. But not with God. Everything is possible with God".
Observation:
This verse is the ending of the story of the rich young ruler, or what others call the poor young pauper. He was not able to sell everything and follower Jesus. Therefore he chose his possessions over following Christ. Jesus says after this that it is very hard for rich people to enter the kingdom of heaven. The disciples asked him then, who can be saved? Jesus replied that humanly speaking it is impossible for the rich to be saved, but with God all things are possible.
Application:
Some things are hard, but with God all things are possible! I live in the wealthiest county in America and have struggled to build the church and win the lost in this region because they have everything and don't feel they "need" God in their lives. Though they don't "feel" they need Him, they do and this morning I am determined that all people can be reached for Jesus. He saves the rich, the poor, and everyone in between. All things are possible for Him and Word of Life will see all strata of society touched for God's glory.
Prayer:
Lord, it is truly difficult to reach the wealthy and middle class of America, but it is not impossible. Let the convicting power of Your Spirit be on my life to reach this area for your glory. Give me the words to speak, the power to walk in, the anointing of Your Spirit and the ability to share Christ in this region and let me be effective in doing it. Give us this city Lord. You said it is possible and I am not giving up till I see you work powerfully among this population.
Love You Much,
Jeff
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Take Up Your Cross
Scripture:
Mark 8:34-35 "If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross, and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake and for the sake of the Good News, you will save it".
Observation:
Jesus had begun talking about the fact that he would be punished and eventually die and be resurrected to his disciples. Peter pulls Jesus aside and reprimands him for saying these things. Jesus tells Peter he is seeing things only from a human perspective. Jesus turns to the crowd and begins to teach that they must lay down their lives, their selfish ways, and their personal pursuits to follow him. He tells them that if they try to hold onto their own life that they will lose it. He is saying we must be willing to follow Him at any cost.
Application:
Jesus is not Santa Clause who was formed just to bring us blessing! He was gave his life for us and expects us to lay down our lives for him. Today we have a very selfish gospel. we are told if we follow Jesus he will give us whatever we want and he will make our dreams come true. Jesus taught the exact opposite! He taught that we must be willing to lay down our selfish desires and our own plans to take up his plans for our lives. When we come to Christ, our life is no longer our own. We give up the right to follow our own path. Most of Christianity doesn't teach this any more. We must learn the lost art of self denial and complete obedience to Christ.
Prayer:
Father, help me to grow in You. Help me not to lead my own life and ask you to bless it. Help me to find your will and follow it completely. Teach me to trust you more so I can do whatever you ask without a question. I want to be a better follower. I lay my life down at your feet. Teach me to take up my cross daily and not complain.
Mark 8:34-35 "If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross, and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake and for the sake of the Good News, you will save it".
Observation:
Jesus had begun talking about the fact that he would be punished and eventually die and be resurrected to his disciples. Peter pulls Jesus aside and reprimands him for saying these things. Jesus tells Peter he is seeing things only from a human perspective. Jesus turns to the crowd and begins to teach that they must lay down their lives, their selfish ways, and their personal pursuits to follow him. He tells them that if they try to hold onto their own life that they will lose it. He is saying we must be willing to follow Him at any cost.
Application:
Jesus is not Santa Clause who was formed just to bring us blessing! He was gave his life for us and expects us to lay down our lives for him. Today we have a very selfish gospel. we are told if we follow Jesus he will give us whatever we want and he will make our dreams come true. Jesus taught the exact opposite! He taught that we must be willing to lay down our selfish desires and our own plans to take up his plans for our lives. When we come to Christ, our life is no longer our own. We give up the right to follow our own path. Most of Christianity doesn't teach this any more. We must learn the lost art of self denial and complete obedience to Christ.
Prayer:
Father, help me to grow in You. Help me not to lead my own life and ask you to bless it. Help me to find your will and follow it completely. Teach me to trust you more so I can do whatever you ask without a question. I want to be a better follower. I lay my life down at your feet. Teach me to take up my cross daily and not complain.
Monday, May 10, 2010
Fear and Faith
Scripture:
Mark 4:40 "Then He asked them, 'Why are you afraid? Do you still have no faith?'"
Observation:
Jesus had just rebuked the wind and calmed a storm. His disciples woke him up because they were terrified they were going to drown. He speaks and the wind and waves stop, then He addresses His disciples with two questions, "Why are you afraid?" and "Do you still have no faith?"
Application:
In this section of Scripture and in others, fear and faith are seen as opposites. When there is true faith, fear must go away! Faith and fear cannot coexist. When we really trust God in every are of our lives, there will be no place for fear. When we are fully committed to the Lord and trust Him with our lives, fear will leave. Most of us never come to that place. We trust the Lord, but hold onto fear. We must let go of fear if we are ever going to do His will. Fear will hold you back from fulfilling God's will for your life.
Prayer:
Lord, teach me to lead a faith filled, fear destroying life. I want to serve You 100% and not allow fear to stop me from accomplishing what you desire for me. Help me to make the hard decisions and trust You for the outcome. You are my strength and my deliverer! I want to trust You more and be controlled by fear less.
Yours,
Jeff
Mark 4:40 "Then He asked them, 'Why are you afraid? Do you still have no faith?'"
Observation:
Jesus had just rebuked the wind and calmed a storm. His disciples woke him up because they were terrified they were going to drown. He speaks and the wind and waves stop, then He addresses His disciples with two questions, "Why are you afraid?" and "Do you still have no faith?"
Application:
In this section of Scripture and in others, fear and faith are seen as opposites. When there is true faith, fear must go away! Faith and fear cannot coexist. When we really trust God in every are of our lives, there will be no place for fear. When we are fully committed to the Lord and trust Him with our lives, fear will leave. Most of us never come to that place. We trust the Lord, but hold onto fear. We must let go of fear if we are ever going to do His will. Fear will hold you back from fulfilling God's will for your life.
Prayer:
Lord, teach me to lead a faith filled, fear destroying life. I want to serve You 100% and not allow fear to stop me from accomplishing what you desire for me. Help me to make the hard decisions and trust You for the outcome. You are my strength and my deliverer! I want to trust You more and be controlled by fear less.
Yours,
Jeff
Friday, May 7, 2010
Faithful in Small Things
Scripture:
Matthew 25:21 "The Master was full of praise. 'Well done my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let's celebrate together!'"
Observation:
Jesus had been describing to His followers the time of His return. He was letting them know to be ready for His return at all times. In this context He throws in this story about people who were given an amount of money, the master goes away for a long time, then He comes back to settle accounts and see what was done with His money. The one who doubled what he was given was commended by Jesus for being faithful in the little things. He is then given more responsibility and even more money to work with.
Application:
God is interested in the little things in our lives. He wants to know if we can be trusted or not. He knows that He can trust you or not trust you based on how well you do the "little things". If you are faithful in little, God will make you ruler over much. Why should God give us bigger and better things when we are not faithful with what we have? Many times in our lives, the little things are simply a test to see if God can trust us with bigger things. DO THE LITTLE THINGS WITH ALL YOUR HEART! God will bless it and multiply it!
Prayer:
Lord, teach me to be faithful in the little things. Deal with me about my unfinished business. Show me the things You want me to do ad I will do them. Give me the strength to do what I feel You leading me to do. I want to be seen as one who is faithful in the little things. I need Your help because it doesn't come very naturally.
Your Son,
Jeff
Matthew 25:21 "The Master was full of praise. 'Well done my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let's celebrate together!'"
Observation:
Jesus had been describing to His followers the time of His return. He was letting them know to be ready for His return at all times. In this context He throws in this story about people who were given an amount of money, the master goes away for a long time, then He comes back to settle accounts and see what was done with His money. The one who doubled what he was given was commended by Jesus for being faithful in the little things. He is then given more responsibility and even more money to work with.
Application:
God is interested in the little things in our lives. He wants to know if we can be trusted or not. He knows that He can trust you or not trust you based on how well you do the "little things". If you are faithful in little, God will make you ruler over much. Why should God give us bigger and better things when we are not faithful with what we have? Many times in our lives, the little things are simply a test to see if God can trust us with bigger things. DO THE LITTLE THINGS WITH ALL YOUR HEART! God will bless it and multiply it!
Prayer:
Lord, teach me to be faithful in the little things. Deal with me about my unfinished business. Show me the things You want me to do ad I will do them. Give me the strength to do what I feel You leading me to do. I want to be seen as one who is faithful in the little things. I need Your help because it doesn't come very naturally.
Your Son,
Jeff
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Ready all the Time
Scripture:
Matthew 24:44 "You also must be ready all the time, for the Son of Man will come when least expected".
Observation:
Jesus was talking to His disciples about the end of the age and what would happen at the end. They were asking for specifics about when He would come again. They wanted to know what would happen and when He would take His place of authority and power. He gives them what they need instead of what they want. He tells them they must be ready all the time because He will come when they least expect it.
Application:
Do we really live our lives believing that He will come when we least expect it? Do we really live "ready all the time"? Jesus wants His disciples to live as if He were coming back today. We don't know the day or the hour when He will return, but we do know the season and right now, I believe we are seeing every day in the news, the beginning of sorrows. The front page of the news is like reading the back of the Bible! When I was young, I always heard teaching on the rapture of the church. We really thought Jesus would come at any moment! Now, it is amazingly clear that He is coming soon. Non-believers are asking if the end of the world is near. Everyone knows something is up on the earth right now. Now should be the greatest hour of the church as we have an answer for what everyone is thinking. Let's get about our Father's business and prepare others for the coming of Christ!
Prayer:
Lord, let me live ready to meet You at any moment. Help me to live a life that will bring Your praise. Help me to make the most of every moment and leverage my time for Your kingdom. Give me opportunity to share Christ with someone today and help me to be sensitive to Your voice. I want to impact eternity for someone. Give me the strength and ability to do everything You have asked me to do. I love Your Lord!
Jeff
Matthew 24:44 "You also must be ready all the time, for the Son of Man will come when least expected".
Observation:
Jesus was talking to His disciples about the end of the age and what would happen at the end. They were asking for specifics about when He would come again. They wanted to know what would happen and when He would take His place of authority and power. He gives them what they need instead of what they want. He tells them they must be ready all the time because He will come when they least expect it.
Application:
Do we really live our lives believing that He will come when we least expect it? Do we really live "ready all the time"? Jesus wants His disciples to live as if He were coming back today. We don't know the day or the hour when He will return, but we do know the season and right now, I believe we are seeing every day in the news, the beginning of sorrows. The front page of the news is like reading the back of the Bible! When I was young, I always heard teaching on the rapture of the church. We really thought Jesus would come at any moment! Now, it is amazingly clear that He is coming soon. Non-believers are asking if the end of the world is near. Everyone knows something is up on the earth right now. Now should be the greatest hour of the church as we have an answer for what everyone is thinking. Let's get about our Father's business and prepare others for the coming of Christ!
Prayer:
Lord, let me live ready to meet You at any moment. Help me to live a life that will bring Your praise. Help me to make the most of every moment and leverage my time for Your kingdom. Give me opportunity to share Christ with someone today and help me to be sensitive to Your voice. I want to impact eternity for someone. Give me the strength and ability to do everything You have asked me to do. I love Your Lord!
Jeff
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