Scripture:
Judges 16:16 "And when she pressed him hard with her words day after day, and urged him, his soul was vexed to death".
Observation:
Delilah continued to press Samson day after day until he couldn't take it any more. He knew what he was doing was wrong, but her pressing him day after day caused him to give in and give up the information that would kill him.
Application:
Sometimes, because of the vexing of our souls by those around us, we can do things that will cause us great pain down the road. We can make terrible decisions because someone continues to hound us day after day. We can destroy our entire future because of the continued pressure from people around us. We must be cautious about this and remain in close relationship with the Holy Spirit so that we are sensitive to His voice and don't make poor decisions that will destroy our destiny.
Prayer:
Father, help me to listen closely to Your voice. Let me be led by Your Spirit and not the voices and pressures of those around me. Help me to fulfill Your will above all else in my life. You are amazing and I commit my life to You and Your purposes.
Yours,
Jeff
Friday, April 28, 2017
Thursday, April 27, 2017
God's Way of Working
Scripture:
Judges 13:5 "for behold, you shall conceive and bear a son. No razor shall come upon his head, for the child shall be a Nazirite to God from the womb, and he shall begin to save Israel from the hand of the Philistines".
Observation:
This verse is in response to verse number one that says that Israel did evil in the sight of the Lord. From this I see that when the Lord wants to do something in the earth, He sets apart a child. When Israel needed a deliverer, God went to work before conception to send an answer. God thinks far, far in advance.
Application:
Sometimes when we don't see the answer for some part of our lives, God may have been working on something for a long time. God is never in a rush. He is working things out years in advance so that His will is accomplished. Samson was promised and set apart years before Israel needed a deliverer. We need to trust God more.
Prayer:
Father, help me to trust that You know what you are doing with my life. You have me where I am for Your purposes, which were determined long before I was born. Help me to get on Your track and do Your will. Help me to realize when things stress me out, that You have been planning my deliverance for years.
Yours,
Jeff
Judges 13:5 "for behold, you shall conceive and bear a son. No razor shall come upon his head, for the child shall be a Nazirite to God from the womb, and he shall begin to save Israel from the hand of the Philistines".
Observation:
This verse is in response to verse number one that says that Israel did evil in the sight of the Lord. From this I see that when the Lord wants to do something in the earth, He sets apart a child. When Israel needed a deliverer, God went to work before conception to send an answer. God thinks far, far in advance.
Application:
Sometimes when we don't see the answer for some part of our lives, God may have been working on something for a long time. God is never in a rush. He is working things out years in advance so that His will is accomplished. Samson was promised and set apart years before Israel needed a deliverer. We need to trust God more.
Prayer:
Father, help me to trust that You know what you are doing with my life. You have me where I am for Your purposes, which were determined long before I was born. Help me to get on Your track and do Your will. Help me to realize when things stress me out, that You have been planning my deliverance for years.
Yours,
Jeff
Wednesday, April 26, 2017
When God Gets Fed Up
Scripture:
Judges 10:14 "Go and cry out to the gods whom you have chosen; let them save you in the time of you distress".
Observation:
Israel was crying out to the Lord to help them when they were in a bad situation. They had been serving other gods and had departed from God's ways. When they cried out, God replied with "Go and cry out to the gods whom you have chosen". He was fed up with Israel coming to Him when they were in trouble, but not serving Him when things were going well.
Application:
How many times in our lives have we been the same way? How many times have we gone about things our own way and then run to God when things got bad? We need to learn to follow the Lord when things are good and when things are bad. God doesn't just want to be 911 when we are in trouble. He wants us to walk with Him and talk with Him constantly. He wants us to follow His ways when we are doing well and when we are not doing well.
Prayer:
Lord, help me not to be like the children of Israel who would serve You when they needed something, but turn from You when things were going okay. Help me to walk with You in the good times and in the bad times. I don't want to call on God when in trouble, but not walk with Him when things are good.
Your Son,
Jeff
Judges 10:14 "Go and cry out to the gods whom you have chosen; let them save you in the time of you distress".
Observation:
Israel was crying out to the Lord to help them when they were in a bad situation. They had been serving other gods and had departed from God's ways. When they cried out, God replied with "Go and cry out to the gods whom you have chosen". He was fed up with Israel coming to Him when they were in trouble, but not serving Him when things were going well.
Application:
How many times in our lives have we been the same way? How many times have we gone about things our own way and then run to God when things got bad? We need to learn to follow the Lord when things are good and when things are bad. God doesn't just want to be 911 when we are in trouble. He wants us to walk with Him and talk with Him constantly. He wants us to follow His ways when we are doing well and when we are not doing well.
Prayer:
Lord, help me not to be like the children of Israel who would serve You when they needed something, but turn from You when things were going okay. Help me to walk with You in the good times and in the bad times. I don't want to call on God when in trouble, but not walk with Him when things are good.
Your Son,
Jeff
Tuesday, April 25, 2017
Rest
Scripture:
Judges 8:28 "So Midian was subdued before the people of Israel, and they raised their heads no more. And the land had rest forty years in the days of Gideon".
Observation:
Throughout the Old Testament I see that when the godly are ruling God's people, they are blessed with rest. When God's people are doing things His way, He gives rest to them from all the attacks of their enemies. Here the people of Israel went from fearing Midian to resting in God's favor for forty years.
Application:
God has promised rest for His people over and over throughout the Scriptures. It is in Old and New Testaments. When we really have faith that God is fighting our battles, we will be able to rest knowing that He is in control. I generally think of God as moving and working and getting things accomplished, but one of the great signs that God is moving is rest. Rest is a good thing.
Prayer:
Father, teach me to rest in You. Help me to give my best and serve You ALL IN and ALL OUT, but let me do it in a spirit of rest, knowing You have everything under control and that You will accomplish more than all my work could accomplish anyway. Help me to walk in faith and learn to rest in You.
Yours,
Jeff
Judges 8:28 "So Midian was subdued before the people of Israel, and they raised their heads no more. And the land had rest forty years in the days of Gideon".
Observation:
Throughout the Old Testament I see that when the godly are ruling God's people, they are blessed with rest. When God's people are doing things His way, He gives rest to them from all the attacks of their enemies. Here the people of Israel went from fearing Midian to resting in God's favor for forty years.
Application:
God has promised rest for His people over and over throughout the Scriptures. It is in Old and New Testaments. When we really have faith that God is fighting our battles, we will be able to rest knowing that He is in control. I generally think of God as moving and working and getting things accomplished, but one of the great signs that God is moving is rest. Rest is a good thing.
Prayer:
Father, teach me to rest in You. Help me to give my best and serve You ALL IN and ALL OUT, but let me do it in a spirit of rest, knowing You have everything under control and that You will accomplish more than all my work could accomplish anyway. Help me to walk in faith and learn to rest in You.
Yours,
Jeff
Monday, April 24, 2017
If and Why
Scripture :
Judges 6:13 "And Gideon said, 'Please, my lord, if the Lord is with us, why then has all this happened to us? And where are all his wonderful deeds that our fathers recounted to us, saying, 'Did not the Lord bring us up from Egypt?' But now the Lord has forsaken us and given us into the hand of Midian'".
Observation:
Gideon was encountering the angel of the Lord and the Lord spoke to him and told him that the Lord was with him. His immediate reply was that "IF the Lord is with us, WHY has all this happened to us?" He felt forsaken by God and that the Lord was no longer with them. He questioned the Lord based on his present situation instead of knowing the faithfulness of the Lord.
Application:
Sometimes when we are in the midst of a trying time, we are quick to deny that God is with us. When things go wrong, we usually don't feel like God is with us any more. When bad things happen, we tend to be like Gideon and say, "IF God is with me, WHY has this happened to me?" We must turn away from that and know from God's word that He is with us instead of following our feelings.
Prayer:
Father, let me live a life of faith based on Your word and not based on my emotions, feelings or thoughts. Teach me how to respond correctly in all situations. When things are not good, help me not to act like You are not taking care of me. Your ways are higher than my ways and sometimes I don't understand them. Help me to walk by faith and not by sight.
Yours,
Jeff
Judges 6:13 "And Gideon said, 'Please, my lord, if the Lord is with us, why then has all this happened to us? And where are all his wonderful deeds that our fathers recounted to us, saying, 'Did not the Lord bring us up from Egypt?' But now the Lord has forsaken us and given us into the hand of Midian'".
Observation:
Gideon was encountering the angel of the Lord and the Lord spoke to him and told him that the Lord was with him. His immediate reply was that "IF the Lord is with us, WHY has all this happened to us?" He felt forsaken by God and that the Lord was no longer with them. He questioned the Lord based on his present situation instead of knowing the faithfulness of the Lord.
Application:
Sometimes when we are in the midst of a trying time, we are quick to deny that God is with us. When things go wrong, we usually don't feel like God is with us any more. When bad things happen, we tend to be like Gideon and say, "IF God is with me, WHY has this happened to me?" We must turn away from that and know from God's word that He is with us instead of following our feelings.
Prayer:
Father, let me live a life of faith based on Your word and not based on my emotions, feelings or thoughts. Teach me how to respond correctly in all situations. When things are not good, help me not to act like You are not taking care of me. Your ways are higher than my ways and sometimes I don't understand them. Help me to walk by faith and not by sight.
Yours,
Jeff
Friday, April 21, 2017
Paul's Clear Calling
Scripture:
Acts 26:18 "to open the their eyes, so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me".
Observation:
Paul's calling came directly from Jesus. It was very clear and having a clear calling kept him sure of it and sure of what he needed to do with his life. He could articulate his purpose in a moment and describe how and when he was called. Though his life was difficult, this made it easier to face what he was facing at all times.
Application:
We need to seek God until we know why we were created and brought into the Kingdom. We need to know our purpose and be able to articulate it well. When we can do this, it takes away all interference with our calling and causes us to be focused on what we are called to do instead of just doing whatever is in front of us. When we can define our calling, we can pursue it with more and clearer passion.
Prayer:
Lord, reveal to me clearly what I am suppose to be doing with my life. Help me to stay on track in doing what I am suppose to be doing instead of just doing whatever I have to do. Help me to accomplish Your will and not my own.
Yours,
Jeff
Acts 26:18 "to open the their eyes, so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me".
Observation:
Paul's calling came directly from Jesus. It was very clear and having a clear calling kept him sure of it and sure of what he needed to do with his life. He could articulate his purpose in a moment and describe how and when he was called. Though his life was difficult, this made it easier to face what he was facing at all times.
Application:
We need to seek God until we know why we were created and brought into the Kingdom. We need to know our purpose and be able to articulate it well. When we can do this, it takes away all interference with our calling and causes us to be focused on what we are called to do instead of just doing whatever is in front of us. When we can define our calling, we can pursue it with more and clearer passion.
Prayer:
Lord, reveal to me clearly what I am suppose to be doing with my life. Help me to stay on track in doing what I am suppose to be doing instead of just doing whatever I have to do. Help me to accomplish Your will and not my own.
Yours,
Jeff
Thursday, April 20, 2017
The Lord Stood By Him
Scripture:
Acts 23:11 "The following night the Lord stood by him and said, 'Take courage, for as you have testified to the facts about me in Jerusalem, so you must testify also in Rome'".
Observation:
Paul was being chased by those who were wanting to kill him because of his talk about Jesus Christ. The religious rulers of his day were trying to kill him and even made a covenant together that they would not eat until he was dead. The Romans protected him and while he was in protective custody, the Lord came to him and "stood by him" and told him that he would also testify in Rome. In his worst time, the Lord stood by him.
Application:
When we are being persecuted unfairly for our faith, we can know that the Lord Jesus will also stand by us. Those who have walked through true persecution give witness to how powerful the presence of the Lord was when they were going through their most difficult times. He is faithful to take care of those who are suffering for Him. We can trust that God will give us what we need in order to follow Him completely. When we need to know He is there, He will let us know.
Prayer:
Father, help me to know that You are standing by me at all times. Help me to realize that You will never leave me nor forsake me. Help me to know that in the most difficult times in my life, that You are right there standing beside me.
Your Son,
Jeff
Acts 23:11 "The following night the Lord stood by him and said, 'Take courage, for as you have testified to the facts about me in Jerusalem, so you must testify also in Rome'".
Observation:
Paul was being chased by those who were wanting to kill him because of his talk about Jesus Christ. The religious rulers of his day were trying to kill him and even made a covenant together that they would not eat until he was dead. The Romans protected him and while he was in protective custody, the Lord came to him and "stood by him" and told him that he would also testify in Rome. In his worst time, the Lord stood by him.
Application:
When we are being persecuted unfairly for our faith, we can know that the Lord Jesus will also stand by us. Those who have walked through true persecution give witness to how powerful the presence of the Lord was when they were going through their most difficult times. He is faithful to take care of those who are suffering for Him. We can trust that God will give us what we need in order to follow Him completely. When we need to know He is there, He will let us know.
Prayer:
Father, help me to know that You are standing by me at all times. Help me to realize that You will never leave me nor forsake me. Help me to know that in the most difficult times in my life, that You are right there standing beside me.
Your Son,
Jeff
Wednesday, April 19, 2017
Finish My Course
Scripture:
Acts 20:24 "But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God".
Observation:
Paul is realizing through prophetic words that his life is going to get worse and worse. It is being prophesied that imprisonments and afflictions await him in Jerusalem. His attitude toward that news is that he doesn't consider his life as precious. He just wants to finish the ministry God had given to him.
Application:
When we get weary and worn out in ministry, we always look for greener pastures or take a time to rest. Paul was the exact opposite, when things were going wrong, he felt like he was accomplishing God's will. We need to be more concerned about finishing our ministry or whatever the Lord has given us to do than how we are feeling at any certain point in time. We need to finish what God has called us to do instead of looking for easier places to do ministry.
Prayer:
Father, my life is in Your hands. You are amazing and I love You much. Help me to finish the course You have called me to. Help me not to see things like the world does, but to be faithful to You and to the calling You put on my life, no matter what happens around me. Help me keep the main thing, the main thing.
Yours,
Jeff
Acts 20:24 "But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God".
Observation:
Paul is realizing through prophetic words that his life is going to get worse and worse. It is being prophesied that imprisonments and afflictions await him in Jerusalem. His attitude toward that news is that he doesn't consider his life as precious. He just wants to finish the ministry God had given to him.
Application:
When we get weary and worn out in ministry, we always look for greener pastures or take a time to rest. Paul was the exact opposite, when things were going wrong, he felt like he was accomplishing God's will. We need to be more concerned about finishing our ministry or whatever the Lord has given us to do than how we are feeling at any certain point in time. We need to finish what God has called us to do instead of looking for easier places to do ministry.
Prayer:
Father, my life is in Your hands. You are amazing and I love You much. Help me to finish the course You have called me to. Help me not to see things like the world does, but to be faithful to You and to the calling You put on my life, no matter what happens around me. Help me keep the main thing, the main thing.
Yours,
Jeff
Tuesday, April 18, 2017
Examine the Word
Scripture:
Acts 17:11 "Now these Jews were more noble than those in Thessalonica; they received the word with all eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so."
Observation:
When Paul and Silas went to Berea, they went into the synagogue and began reasoning through the Scriptures. The Bereans were commended here because they examined the Scriptures daily to see if what Paul and Silas were saying was true. They didn't just listen, but went to the Word to check out what they were being told.
Application:
Go to the Word! That should be our motto when we hear new teachings, new ideas, or things that we don't quite understand. The word is true and is the foundation of our spiritual lives. Everything must be checked out according to the Word and not just our emotions, feelings, or discernment. We need to always be going to the Word. In it is life and truth and hope for our lives.
Prayer:
Father, let me be a man of Your Word. Let Your Word dwell in my richly. Help me to study Your Word more and more. Help me to understand it as I read it and look into it. Change my life as I study Your Word. Help me grow more and more in this.
Yours,
Jeff
Acts 17:11 "Now these Jews were more noble than those in Thessalonica; they received the word with all eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so."
Observation:
When Paul and Silas went to Berea, they went into the synagogue and began reasoning through the Scriptures. The Bereans were commended here because they examined the Scriptures daily to see if what Paul and Silas were saying was true. They didn't just listen, but went to the Word to check out what they were being told.
Application:
Go to the Word! That should be our motto when we hear new teachings, new ideas, or things that we don't quite understand. The word is true and is the foundation of our spiritual lives. Everything must be checked out according to the Word and not just our emotions, feelings, or discernment. We need to always be going to the Word. In it is life and truth and hope for our lives.
Prayer:
Father, let me be a man of Your Word. Let Your Word dwell in my richly. Help me to study Your Word more and more. Help me to understand it as I read it and look into it. Change my life as I study Your Word. Help me grow more and more in this.
Yours,
Jeff
Saturday, April 15, 2017
A Chosen Instrument
Scripture:
Acts 9:15 "But the Lord said to him, 'Go, for he is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles and kings and the children of Israel'".
Observation:
When God spoke to Ananias about Saul, Saul reminded the Lord that Saul was the same guy who was persecuting and killing Christians. He was the worst of the worst. When Ananias questioned the Lord about Saul, the Lord said he was God's chosen instrument. God saw something in Saul that nobody else could see.
Application:
When we are tempted to judge people and condemn them for their actions, we must remember that God can take murderers, haters, and terrible people and make them His chosen instruments. God can use whoever He wants, whenever He wants, however He wants and we need to realize that He doesn't consult us about who He is going to work through. What we see as the worst possible choice, God sees as the best. We must learn to trust His judgment above our own.
Prayer:
Lord, help me not to judge people based on their past, but on who they could be in You. Help me to hear Your voice concerning people and not go with my own thoughts. Help me to see what You see and hear what You are speaking at all times. I want to bless what You bless and curse what You curse. Open my ears to hear You clearly.
Yours,
Jeff
Acts 9:15 "But the Lord said to him, 'Go, for he is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles and kings and the children of Israel'".
Observation:
When God spoke to Ananias about Saul, Saul reminded the Lord that Saul was the same guy who was persecuting and killing Christians. He was the worst of the worst. When Ananias questioned the Lord about Saul, the Lord said he was God's chosen instrument. God saw something in Saul that nobody else could see.
Application:
When we are tempted to judge people and condemn them for their actions, we must remember that God can take murderers, haters, and terrible people and make them His chosen instruments. God can use whoever He wants, whenever He wants, however He wants and we need to realize that He doesn't consult us about who He is going to work through. What we see as the worst possible choice, God sees as the best. We must learn to trust His judgment above our own.
Prayer:
Lord, help me not to judge people based on their past, but on who they could be in You. Help me to hear Your voice concerning people and not go with my own thoughts. Help me to see what You see and hear what You are speaking at all times. I want to bless what You bless and curse what You curse. Open my ears to hear You clearly.
Yours,
Jeff
Friday, April 14, 2017
Joy for Dishonor
Scripture:
Acts 5:41 "Then they left the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name".
Observation:
The apostles suffered dishonor, were beaten and told not to speak in the name of Jesus. Their reaction was to be full of joy because they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for Jesus. They were honored by dishonor. They were joyful because they had been associated with Christ and were beginning to suffer like Him.
Application:
Today we hear of defamation of character lawsuits because someone was dishonored. We hear of people suing others because they had been dishonored. Nobody likes to be dishonored, but if we are dishonored for Christ, there is honor in dishonor. When we are mistreated because of our walk with Christ, we are truly becoming more like Him. When this happens, we should rejoice because we are counted worthy to be dishonored for His name.
Prayer:
Father, help me to find honor in dishonor. Help me to view things the way You view them. Teach me to live fully for Christ every day and to fulfill Your will for my life. Guide me, lead me,, direct my life and let me serve You well all the days of my life.
Your Son,
Jeff
Acts 5:41 "Then they left the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name".
Observation:
The apostles suffered dishonor, were beaten and told not to speak in the name of Jesus. Their reaction was to be full of joy because they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for Jesus. They were honored by dishonor. They were joyful because they had been associated with Christ and were beginning to suffer like Him.
Application:
Today we hear of defamation of character lawsuits because someone was dishonored. We hear of people suing others because they had been dishonored. Nobody likes to be dishonored, but if we are dishonored for Christ, there is honor in dishonor. When we are mistreated because of our walk with Christ, we are truly becoming more like Him. When this happens, we should rejoice because we are counted worthy to be dishonored for His name.
Prayer:
Father, help me to find honor in dishonor. Help me to view things the way You view them. Teach me to live fully for Christ every day and to fulfill Your will for my life. Guide me, lead me,, direct my life and let me serve You well all the days of my life.
Your Son,
Jeff
Thursday, April 13, 2017
Proof
Scripture:
Acts 2:33 "Being therefore exalted at the right hand of God, and having received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, he has poured out this that you yourselves are seeing and hearing".
Observation:
Peter, in giving his defense about the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, tells the crowd around the Upper Room that Jesus really did rise from the dead and ascend to heaven. He tells them that the outpouring of the Holy Spirit is proof that Jesus raised from the dead and ascended to heaven. What was being poured out was coming from Him.
Application:
The outpouring of the Holy Spirit was used as proof of the Gospel of Christ. We must ask God to pour out His Spirit more and more because this will give us opportunity to share about Christ's death, resurrection and ascension. If the outpouring of the Spirit proves Jesus is who He said He was, then we need more outpourings of the Spirit. It proves that Jesus is alive.
Prayer:
Lord God, pour out Your Spirit and give me opportunity to let people know that Jesus is alive and well. Empower Your church to live lives that give witness that Christ is alive and well and that He is coming again. Help me as a pastor to keep proper perspective about all these things and to keep the main thing, the main thing.
Yours,
Jeff
Acts 2:33 "Being therefore exalted at the right hand of God, and having received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, he has poured out this that you yourselves are seeing and hearing".
Observation:
Peter, in giving his defense about the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, tells the crowd around the Upper Room that Jesus really did rise from the dead and ascend to heaven. He tells them that the outpouring of the Holy Spirit is proof that Jesus raised from the dead and ascended to heaven. What was being poured out was coming from Him.
Application:
The outpouring of the Holy Spirit was used as proof of the Gospel of Christ. We must ask God to pour out His Spirit more and more because this will give us opportunity to share about Christ's death, resurrection and ascension. If the outpouring of the Spirit proves Jesus is who He said He was, then we need more outpourings of the Spirit. It proves that Jesus is alive.
Prayer:
Lord God, pour out Your Spirit and give me opportunity to let people know that Jesus is alive and well. Empower Your church to live lives that give witness that Christ is alive and well and that He is coming again. Help me as a pastor to keep proper perspective about all these things and to keep the main thing, the main thing.
Yours,
Jeff
Tuesday, April 11, 2017
Not One Word
Scripture:
Joshua 21:45 "Not one word of all the good promises that the Lord had made to the house of Israel had failed; all came to pass".
Observation:
As the people of Israel entered and conquered the Promised Land, they took possession of it. Prior to this scripture, the Promised Land was divided up among the tribes of Israel and everyone had a place. They inherited whole cities as they destroyed every enemy. God had made good on every promise He had promised to Israel.
Application:
We can rest in the faithfulness of God. He does what He says He is going to do. He is faithful and just, even when we aren't. Just as "not one word" about the promises to Israel failed, "not one word" of what He promises us will fail. He does what He says He will do and we need to trust Him more.
Prayer:
Father, you are the picture of faithfulness. You do what You say You are going to do. You follow through on Your word. Help me to be more like You and to do the things I say I am going to do. Also, increase my faith to know that all the things You have spoken over my life will come to pass.
Your Son,
Jeff
Joshua 21:45 "Not one word of all the good promises that the Lord had made to the house of Israel had failed; all came to pass".
Observation:
As the people of Israel entered and conquered the Promised Land, they took possession of it. Prior to this scripture, the Promised Land was divided up among the tribes of Israel and everyone had a place. They inherited whole cities as they destroyed every enemy. God had made good on every promise He had promised to Israel.
Application:
We can rest in the faithfulness of God. He does what He says He is going to do. He is faithful and just, even when we aren't. Just as "not one word" about the promises to Israel failed, "not one word" of what He promises us will fail. He does what He says He will do and we need to trust Him more.
Prayer:
Father, you are the picture of faithfulness. You do what You say You are going to do. You follow through on Your word. Help me to be more like You and to do the things I say I am going to do. Also, increase my faith to know that all the things You have spoken over my life will come to pass.
Your Son,
Jeff
Sunday, April 9, 2017
Inheritance
Scripture:
Joshua 14:14 "Therefore Hebron became the inheritance of Caleb the son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite to this day, because he wholly followed the Lord, the God of Israel".
Observation:
Caleb was 85 years old when the land was being distributed to the tribes of Israel. It had been 45 years since he spied out the Promised Land, yet when it was time for the division of the land, he asked for his portion. It took 45 years and the poor decisions of others caused a long delay, but eh promise of God came to pass.
Application:
Inheritance comes to those who believe, and continue to believe. Caleb never gave up on the promise of God. 45 years after the promise, he inherited it. Inheritance comes to those who follow the Lord wholeheartedly. We must be people who wholly follow the Lord. When we do, there is always and inheritance for us.
Prayer:
Father, than you for keeping Your promise to Caleb and giving the land he believed for so many years earlier. Thank You for showing me Your faithfulness this morning. Help me to walk in faith throughout my life and inherit the promises that seem like they have faded.
Yours,
Jeff
Joshua 14:14 "Therefore Hebron became the inheritance of Caleb the son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite to this day, because he wholly followed the Lord, the God of Israel".
Observation:
Caleb was 85 years old when the land was being distributed to the tribes of Israel. It had been 45 years since he spied out the Promised Land, yet when it was time for the division of the land, he asked for his portion. It took 45 years and the poor decisions of others caused a long delay, but eh promise of God came to pass.
Application:
Inheritance comes to those who believe, and continue to believe. Caleb never gave up on the promise of God. 45 years after the promise, he inherited it. Inheritance comes to those who follow the Lord wholeheartedly. We must be people who wholly follow the Lord. When we do, there is always and inheritance for us.
Prayer:
Father, than you for keeping Your promise to Caleb and giving the land he believed for so many years earlier. Thank You for showing me Your faithfulness this morning. Help me to walk in faith throughout my life and inherit the promises that seem like they have faded.
Yours,
Jeff
Saturday, April 8, 2017
Nothing Undone
Scripture:
Joshua 11:15 "Just as the Lord had commanded Moses His servant, so Moses commanded Joshua, and Joshua did. He left nothing undone of all that the Lord had commanded Moses".
Observation:
Moses received his commands directly from the Lord. Joshua received his commands from Moses, but still worked hard to make sure that nothing was left undone of everything God had spoken to Moses. He was entrusted with another man's vision and didn't stop until it was accomplished. He completed the assignment given to him.
Application:
We need to be people who leave nothing undone that the Lord gives us. Many times we hear from the Lord and determine that when we have enough budget, enough people, enough time, we will do what the Lord is saying. When God tells us to do something, He plans to provide, but the provision only comes when we are accomplishing His will and not our own. We need to concentrate on leaving nothing undone that God has given us to do.
Prayer:
Father God, help me to leave nothing undone that You have asked me to do. Help me to get past excuses and other things that have kept me from doing Your will. Teach me to say yes and go for it, even when I don't see the resources to do the job. Help me live a life of faith.
Yours,
Jeff
Joshua 11:15 "Just as the Lord had commanded Moses His servant, so Moses commanded Joshua, and Joshua did. He left nothing undone of all that the Lord had commanded Moses".
Observation:
Moses received his commands directly from the Lord. Joshua received his commands from Moses, but still worked hard to make sure that nothing was left undone of everything God had spoken to Moses. He was entrusted with another man's vision and didn't stop until it was accomplished. He completed the assignment given to him.
Application:
We need to be people who leave nothing undone that the Lord gives us. Many times we hear from the Lord and determine that when we have enough budget, enough people, enough time, we will do what the Lord is saying. When God tells us to do something, He plans to provide, but the provision only comes when we are accomplishing His will and not our own. We need to concentrate on leaving nothing undone that God has given us to do.
Prayer:
Father God, help me to leave nothing undone that You have asked me to do. Help me to get past excuses and other things that have kept me from doing Your will. Teach me to say yes and go for it, even when I don't see the resources to do the job. Help me live a life of faith.
Yours,
Jeff
Friday, April 7, 2017
You Cannot Stand
Scripture:
Joshua 7:13 "Get up! Consecrate the people and say, 'Consecrate yourselves for tomorrow; for thus says the Lord, God of Israel, "There are devoted things in your midst, O Israel. You cannot stand before your enemies until you take away the devoted things from among you'".
Observation:
The people of Israel had just come into their Promised Land and defeated the great city of Jericho with a powerful demonstration of God's victory. Next they went against the small town of Ai and were defeated because someone had disobeyed God and had some devoted things in their tent. God told them to consecrate themselves because they could not stand against their enemies as long as they were in disobedience.
Application:
Many of us wonder why God doesn't come through on our behalf. We wonder why we seem to lose battles. The reason may be that we are walking in disobedience. When we disobey God, we cannot expect Him to fight our enemies on our behalf. We are in covenant. When we do our part, He does His part. God is faithful and we are not. When we start losing battles, we must ask if we have been walking in some level of disobedience. We can't defeat our enemies when we are in disobedience to God ourselves.
Prayer:
Lord God Almighty, show me the areas of disobedience in my life. Show me the areas that I have not said yes to You in. High-lite the things in my life that need to change. I want You to fight my battles, but I don't expect You to unless I am doing my part right.
Yours,
Jeff
Joshua 7:13 "Get up! Consecrate the people and say, 'Consecrate yourselves for tomorrow; for thus says the Lord, God of Israel, "There are devoted things in your midst, O Israel. You cannot stand before your enemies until you take away the devoted things from among you'".
Observation:
The people of Israel had just come into their Promised Land and defeated the great city of Jericho with a powerful demonstration of God's victory. Next they went against the small town of Ai and were defeated because someone had disobeyed God and had some devoted things in their tent. God told them to consecrate themselves because they could not stand against their enemies as long as they were in disobedience.
Application:
Many of us wonder why God doesn't come through on our behalf. We wonder why we seem to lose battles. The reason may be that we are walking in disobedience. When we disobey God, we cannot expect Him to fight our enemies on our behalf. We are in covenant. When we do our part, He does His part. God is faithful and we are not. When we start losing battles, we must ask if we have been walking in some level of disobedience. We can't defeat our enemies when we are in disobedience to God ourselves.
Prayer:
Lord God Almighty, show me the areas of disobedience in my life. Show me the areas that I have not said yes to You in. High-lite the things in my life that need to change. I want You to fight my battles, but I don't expect You to unless I am doing my part right.
Yours,
Jeff
Thursday, April 6, 2017
With
Scripture:
Joshua 6:27 "So the Lord was with Joshua, and his fame was in all the land".
Observation:
Joshua took over leadership of Israel when Moses departed. He had just crossed the Jordan river on dry ground and saw the walls of Jericho fall flat before him. He did exactly what the Lord told him to do, and God was with him and did all He said He would do.
Application:
The phrase, "the Lord was with", is seen so many times in the Old Testament. Whenever you see "the Lord was with" someone, they prospered and had incredible success. When the Lord was with them, they were unstoppable. Promotion and success followed everyone of whom it was said that the Lord was with them. The most important thing in our lives is for the Lord to be with us. When He is with us, promotion, provision, and success will be ours. God gave us the prescription for Him being with us when He said, "You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart".
Prayer:
Father, I want You to be with me every day of my life. Help me to live a life that will cause You to walk with me like You did with Moses and Joshua. I want to know You more and more. Help me to follow Yours ways and obey every word You give me. Open me ears and open my eyes to hear and see what You want me to see. Walk with me.
Your Son,
Jeff
Joshua 6:27 "So the Lord was with Joshua, and his fame was in all the land".
Observation:
Joshua took over leadership of Israel when Moses departed. He had just crossed the Jordan river on dry ground and saw the walls of Jericho fall flat before him. He did exactly what the Lord told him to do, and God was with him and did all He said He would do.
Application:
The phrase, "the Lord was with", is seen so many times in the Old Testament. Whenever you see "the Lord was with" someone, they prospered and had incredible success. When the Lord was with them, they were unstoppable. Promotion and success followed everyone of whom it was said that the Lord was with them. The most important thing in our lives is for the Lord to be with us. When He is with us, promotion, provision, and success will be ours. God gave us the prescription for Him being with us when He said, "You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart".
Prayer:
Father, I want You to be with me every day of my life. Help me to live a life that will cause You to walk with me like You did with Moses and Joshua. I want to know You more and more. Help me to follow Yours ways and obey every word You give me. Open me ears and open my eyes to hear and see what You want me to see. Walk with me.
Your Son,
Jeff
Wednesday, April 5, 2017
Because of the Lord
Scripture:
Joshua 2:11 "And as soon as we heard it, our hearts melted, and there was no spirit left in any man because of you, for the Lord your God, he is God in the heavens above and on the earth beneath".
Observation:
Rahab was telling the spies who came to her for help, that her people were scared to death because they had heard the stories of how God was fighting Israel's battles. Word had gotten out that the God of Israel was powerful and it was causing the hearts of men to faint. They had heard that God was above all and that no nation could stand against him.
Application:
When God is really working in your life, even your enemies will take notice. God is all-powerful and nothing is too difficult for Him. All that come against Him will fail. He is above every name that is named and is more awesome than anything this world has to offer. He is greater than all the power of the enemy and His name will be praised. We have nothing to fear when we walk in obedience to God. He is amazing!
Prayer:
Lord, thank you for showing me just how awesome You are this morning. You are truly amazing! I love You. I worship You. I exalt You. You are all-powerful. You are my incredible Father and I love You with all my heart. Help me to walk in confidence that You are my father and that You are with me. Help me to know that You will fight my battles like you did for Joshua.
Your Son,
Jeff
Joshua 2:11 "And as soon as we heard it, our hearts melted, and there was no spirit left in any man because of you, for the Lord your God, he is God in the heavens above and on the earth beneath".
Observation:
Rahab was telling the spies who came to her for help, that her people were scared to death because they had heard the stories of how God was fighting Israel's battles. Word had gotten out that the God of Israel was powerful and it was causing the hearts of men to faint. They had heard that God was above all and that no nation could stand against him.
Application:
When God is really working in your life, even your enemies will take notice. God is all-powerful and nothing is too difficult for Him. All that come against Him will fail. He is above every name that is named and is more awesome than anything this world has to offer. He is greater than all the power of the enemy and His name will be praised. We have nothing to fear when we walk in obedience to God. He is amazing!
Prayer:
Lord, thank you for showing me just how awesome You are this morning. You are truly amazing! I love You. I worship You. I exalt You. You are all-powerful. You are my incredible Father and I love You with all my heart. Help me to walk in confidence that You are my father and that You are with me. Help me to know that You will fight my battles like you did for Joshua.
Your Son,
Jeff
Tuesday, April 4, 2017
Life Through Belief
Scripture:
John 20:31 "but these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name".
Observation:
Just prior to this, John records that Jesus did many other signs and things that were not recorded in his writings, but that the things he had written down were to cause you to believe and that through believing, you would have life.
Application:
Life really starts when we believe on Jesus. When we believe His word and what the Word says about Him, life really begins. It is in His name that we have life and abundant life. It is when we are walking with Him that life gets interesting and powerful. He overcame death, hell and the grave so that we can have life. We need to live life to the fullest because Christ is in us and with us. Believing is the key to life.
Prayer:
Lord, as I read Your word, I am amazed by You. You hold all power and authority in Your hands. John said that through believing we would have life. I believe You are the Son of God. I believe You paid the price for my sins. I believe You died for me and were raised back to life through the power of the Holy Spirit. Live through me today.
Yours,
Jeff
John 20:31 "but these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name".
Observation:
Just prior to this, John records that Jesus did many other signs and things that were not recorded in his writings, but that the things he had written down were to cause you to believe and that through believing, you would have life.
Application:
Life really starts when we believe on Jesus. When we believe His word and what the Word says about Him, life really begins. It is in His name that we have life and abundant life. It is when we are walking with Him that life gets interesting and powerful. He overcame death, hell and the grave so that we can have life. We need to live life to the fullest because Christ is in us and with us. Believing is the key to life.
Prayer:
Lord, as I read Your word, I am amazed by You. You hold all power and authority in Your hands. John said that through believing we would have life. I believe You are the Son of God. I believe You paid the price for my sins. I believe You died for me and were raised back to life through the power of the Holy Spirit. Live through me today.
Yours,
Jeff
Monday, April 3, 2017
Jesus Overcame the World
Scripture:
John 16:33 "I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world".
Observation:
Jesus was soon to be betrayed, arrested and give His life for us. He let His disciples know what was coming so they would not fear. He said that He told them these things so that in Him, they could have peace. He confirmed to them that in this world they would have persecution, but also let them know that He had overcome the world so they had nothing to worry about.
Application:
We can be at peace, no matter how bad things get, because we serve the one who has overcome the world. Jesus told us before He left that in this world we would have persecution. We can expect it! There will be difficult times, but he has also overcome the world. We can take heart in the fact that Jesus has overcome the world. We can rest and have peace because of Him and through Him. He is the source of strength because He overcame the world.
Prayer:
Lord, teach me to rest in You. Help me to walk in peace in this world, knowing that You have overcome this world. Give me strength today to trust You more and more. I know I will have have some tribulation in this world, but You are my peace in the midst of difficult times. You are my rest when things are not going well. You are incredible and I appreciate You.
Yours,
Jeff
John 16:33 "I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world".
Observation:
Jesus was soon to be betrayed, arrested and give His life for us. He let His disciples know what was coming so they would not fear. He said that He told them these things so that in Him, they could have peace. He confirmed to them that in this world they would have persecution, but also let them know that He had overcome the world so they had nothing to worry about.
Application:
We can be at peace, no matter how bad things get, because we serve the one who has overcome the world. Jesus told us before He left that in this world we would have persecution. We can expect it! There will be difficult times, but he has also overcome the world. We can take heart in the fact that Jesus has overcome the world. We can rest and have peace because of Him and through Him. He is the source of strength because He overcame the world.
Prayer:
Lord, teach me to rest in You. Help me to walk in peace in this world, knowing that You have overcome this world. Give me strength today to trust You more and more. I know I will have have some tribulation in this world, but You are my peace in the midst of difficult times. You are my rest when things are not going well. You are incredible and I appreciate You.
Yours,
Jeff
Sunday, April 2, 2017
Peace, Peace, Wonderful Peace
Scripture:
John 14:27 "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid".
Observation:
When Jesus was telling His disciples that He was preparing to go away, He told them that He was leaving His peace with them. He told them very clearly that He was giving them His peace. He didn't want His disciples to be afraid or troubled, but to have peace.
Application:
We are the disciples of Christ today and we have the same offer given to us. Jesus wants His people to be full of peace. When we know that God is in control, we should have a genuine peace. When we walk in faith, we should have peace in our hearts because we totally trust our Father will take care of us. The more trust we have in our Father, the more peace we will have in our lives. He gave us His peace, I need to walk in it.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to walk in Your peace. Help me to trust You at greater levels each day. I know that my trust in You will bring me more and more peace. Help me to carry Your peace and to demonstrate Your peace to others that they may see how You can bring peace in any situation.
Yours,
Jeff
John 14:27 "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid".
Observation:
When Jesus was telling His disciples that He was preparing to go away, He told them that He was leaving His peace with them. He told them very clearly that He was giving them His peace. He didn't want His disciples to be afraid or troubled, but to have peace.
Application:
We are the disciples of Christ today and we have the same offer given to us. Jesus wants His people to be full of peace. When we know that God is in control, we should have a genuine peace. When we walk in faith, we should have peace in our hearts because we totally trust our Father will take care of us. The more trust we have in our Father, the more peace we will have in our lives. He gave us His peace, I need to walk in it.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to walk in Your peace. Help me to trust You at greater levels each day. I know that my trust in You will bring me more and more peace. Help me to carry Your peace and to demonstrate Your peace to others that they may see how You can bring peace in any situation.
Yours,
Jeff
Saturday, April 1, 2017
Loving the Right Glory
Scripture:
John 12:43 "for they loved the glory that comes from man more than the glory that comes from God".
Observation:
In the context, it says that many of the authorities believed in Jesus, but they did not confess it because they might be put out of the Synagogue. Jesus goes on to say they loved the glory coming from man more than the glory coming from God. This was quite a put down from Jesus.
Application:
How many times have we done something, or not done something, because we were afraid of what someone would think? Often, we don't do what we feel God wants us to because of what man with think. We all feel the pressure to please man rather than to please God. We must be cautious in this area because it is so easy to fall into. We must walk in obedience to God, no matter what man, authorities, etc. feel about it.
Prayer:
Father, let me walk in obedience to You at all times. Help me to say yes to You, even when man doesn't understand why I do what I do. Help me to live a life pleasing to You over being pleasing to man. Help me to honor You first in all things.
Yours,
Jeff
John 12:43 "for they loved the glory that comes from man more than the glory that comes from God".
Observation:
In the context, it says that many of the authorities believed in Jesus, but they did not confess it because they might be put out of the Synagogue. Jesus goes on to say they loved the glory coming from man more than the glory coming from God. This was quite a put down from Jesus.
Application:
How many times have we done something, or not done something, because we were afraid of what someone would think? Often, we don't do what we feel God wants us to because of what man with think. We all feel the pressure to please man rather than to please God. We must be cautious in this area because it is so easy to fall into. We must walk in obedience to God, no matter what man, authorities, etc. feel about it.
Prayer:
Father, let me walk in obedience to You at all times. Help me to say yes to You, even when man doesn't understand why I do what I do. Help me to live a life pleasing to You over being pleasing to man. Help me to honor You first in all things.
Yours,
Jeff
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