Scripture:
““But for you who fear my name, the Sun of Righteousness will rise with healing in his wings. And you will go free, leaping with joy like calves let out to pasture.”
Malachi 4:2 NLT
Observation:
Malachi is in the midst of prophesying about judgement coming. In the midst of the word, there is a “but” for those who fear the Lord, he says, “The Sun of Righteousness will rise with healing in his wings”. He goes on to talk about leaping with joy like a call let out of its pen.
Application:
This is a promise from God to those who fear Him. He says that those who fear Him will have the Sun of Righteousness arise with healing and bringing great joy. Jesus already paid the price for our healing to spring forth and for our joy. He left those thing with us till He comes again. Our job is to fear the Lord. I want my life to be a life that fears God. One that honors, respects, obeys, and serves Him.
Prayer:
Father God, teach me to fear You more each day. I love You with all my heart and I want my worship to be as pure as refined silver or gold. I want to offer You the most valuable gift I can, a pure heart of worship and a life of obedience. As I do, I look to remain healthy all the days of my life and to walk in Your overflowing joy.
Yours,
Jeff
Monday, December 31, 2018
Saturday, December 29, 2018
God’s Purifying
Scripture:
“I will bring that group through the fire and make them pure. I will refine them like silver and purify them like gold. They will call on my name, and I will answer them. I will say, ‘These are my people,’ and they will say, ‘The Lord is our God.’””
Zechariah 13:9 NLT
Observation:
Zecharaiah here prophesies about a remnant who the Lord will bring through the fire and make them pure. He says He will refine them like silver or gold and say they are His people. God has always wanted the same thing, a group of people who would be purified and He could be their god and they would be completely His and His alone.
Application:
God is still looking for those who will completely and fully follow after Him. He is still looking for a people He can purify and cleanse who will be completely yielded to Him. His desire from the beginning has been for a people who would walk in righteousness and who would make Him their god. He even sent His Son to make this happen and now we can be the righteousness of God and we can be purified and called holy. He has given us everything we need to give Him what He desires. I want to be one who fully and completely follows my Lord.
Prayer:
Father, purify my life. Cleanse me from everything that doesn’t honor You. Let my life bring You honor and praise. I want to be completely Yours and want You to be my God. Examine my life and show me what I need to work on. Purify me Lord. I am Yours.
Your Son,
Jeff
“I will bring that group through the fire and make them pure. I will refine them like silver and purify them like gold. They will call on my name, and I will answer them. I will say, ‘These are my people,’ and they will say, ‘The Lord is our God.’””
Zechariah 13:9 NLT
Observation:
Zecharaiah here prophesies about a remnant who the Lord will bring through the fire and make them pure. He says He will refine them like silver or gold and say they are His people. God has always wanted the same thing, a group of people who would be purified and He could be their god and they would be completely His and His alone.
Application:
God is still looking for those who will completely and fully follow after Him. He is still looking for a people He can purify and cleanse who will be completely yielded to Him. His desire from the beginning has been for a people who would walk in righteousness and who would make Him their god. He even sent His Son to make this happen and now we can be the righteousness of God and we can be purified and called holy. He has given us everything we need to give Him what He desires. I want to be one who fully and completely follows my Lord.
Prayer:
Father, purify my life. Cleanse me from everything that doesn’t honor You. Let my life bring You honor and praise. I want to be completely Yours and want You to be my God. Examine my life and show me what I need to work on. Purify me Lord. I am Yours.
Your Son,
Jeff
Friday, December 28, 2018
God’s Plans Will Come to Pass
Scripture:
““Then I will pour out a spirit of grace and prayer on the family of David and on the people of Jerusalem. They will look on me whom they have pierced and mourn for him as for an only son. They will grieve bitterly for him as for a firstborn son who has died.”
Zechariah 12:10 NLT
Observation:
God has had an overall plan from the beginning of time. He knew Israel and Judah would reject Him, and eventually kill His own Son. He knew in the end, though, that Israel will once again realize what they had done to the Son of God and turn back to Him. Israel has been cut off for a season, but when the fullness of the Gentiles comes in, His people will return to Him and He will work with them again.
Application:
If God knows the details of a nation thousands of years ahead of time, He also knows the details of our lives. He knows. He understands. He sees what is going on each day. He has a plan and we can trust Him in that. Our place is to seek Him and walk in accordance with His plan. We need to see what He is doing and work with Him to accomplish it. We will be blessed in doing it.
Prayer:
Lord God Almighty, You are incredible, all-knowing, all-powerful, and are present everywhere. Nothing goes on without You knowing about it. Nothing surprises You. I want to walk in step with You and serve Your purposes, which You are bringing to pass in the earth. You will accomplish them with or without me, but I want to be part of fulfilling Your purposes.
Yours,
Jeff
““Then I will pour out a spirit of grace and prayer on the family of David and on the people of Jerusalem. They will look on me whom they have pierced and mourn for him as for an only son. They will grieve bitterly for him as for a firstborn son who has died.”
Zechariah 12:10 NLT
Observation:
God has had an overall plan from the beginning of time. He knew Israel and Judah would reject Him, and eventually kill His own Son. He knew in the end, though, that Israel will once again realize what they had done to the Son of God and turn back to Him. Israel has been cut off for a season, but when the fullness of the Gentiles comes in, His people will return to Him and He will work with them again.
Application:
If God knows the details of a nation thousands of years ahead of time, He also knows the details of our lives. He knows. He understands. He sees what is going on each day. He has a plan and we can trust Him in that. Our place is to seek Him and walk in accordance with His plan. We need to see what He is doing and work with Him to accomplish it. We will be blessed in doing it.
Prayer:
Lord God Almighty, You are incredible, all-knowing, all-powerful, and are present everywhere. Nothing goes on without You knowing about it. Nothing surprises You. I want to walk in step with You and serve Your purposes, which You are bringing to pass in the earth. You will accomplish them with or without me, but I want to be part of fulfilling Your purposes.
Yours,
Jeff
Thursday, December 27, 2018
Jesus Comes in Ways We Don’t Expect
Scripture:
“Rejoice, O people of Zion! Shout in triumph, O people of Jerusalem! Look, your king is coming to you. He is righteous and victorious, yet he is humble, riding on a donkey— riding on a donkey’s colt.”
Zechariah 9:9 NLT
Observation:
Zecharaiah tells God’s people to rejoice and shout in triumph because their king was coming to them. He lets them know that He won’t be coming in kings garments riding a stallion, but a humble servant riding a donkey. Though riding a donkey, he is seen here as righteous and victorious.
Application:
You can’t put God in a box. He will demonstrate His power through what seems simple. He will raise up those who are simple and will come through in a way we do not expect. We must learn to trust God in our lives because He always comes through, but He also come through in ways we don’t expect. Instead of telling God what we expect Him to do, I need to trust God to come as He wants to and work in my life according to His plans.
Prayer:
Father, I yield myself to You. Sometimes I don’t understand what You are doing or why, but help me to walk in yielded submission to You at all times. Help me not to complain because You are not doing what I want You to, but to surrender to Your will always. Help me not to think I know better than You what needs to happen next in my life.
Yours,
Jeff
“Rejoice, O people of Zion! Shout in triumph, O people of Jerusalem! Look, your king is coming to you. He is righteous and victorious, yet he is humble, riding on a donkey— riding on a donkey’s colt.”
Zechariah 9:9 NLT
Observation:
Zecharaiah tells God’s people to rejoice and shout in triumph because their king was coming to them. He lets them know that He won’t be coming in kings garments riding a stallion, but a humble servant riding a donkey. Though riding a donkey, he is seen here as righteous and victorious.
Application:
You can’t put God in a box. He will demonstrate His power through what seems simple. He will raise up those who are simple and will come through in a way we do not expect. We must learn to trust God in our lives because He always comes through, but He also come through in ways we don’t expect. Instead of telling God what we expect Him to do, I need to trust God to come as He wants to and work in my life according to His plans.
Prayer:
Father, I yield myself to You. Sometimes I don’t understand what You are doing or why, but help me to walk in yielded submission to You at all times. Help me not to complain because You are not doing what I want You to, but to surrender to Your will always. Help me not to think I know better than You what needs to happen next in my life.
Yours,
Jeff
Wednesday, December 26, 2018
Small Beginnings
Scripture:
“Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin, to see the plumb line in Zerubbabel’s hand.” (The seven lamps represent the eyes of the Lord that search all around the world.)”
Zechariah 4:10 NLT
Observation:
The Lord is speaking to Zechariah concerning the building of the Temple. He tells him not to despise the small beginnings because the Lord rejoices just seeing the work started. God is more concerned with us starting the work He has given us than with seeing great things happen. Small beginnings are beginnings.
Application:
I need to learn not to despise small beginnings and to realize that the Lord is more concerned about obedience than size, or anything else. I need to be confident in the fact that I obeyed Him in starting things than in looking at their success or failure through human eyes or comparing with someone else’s success.
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for this word today. Help me to walk in it and to be more concerned about obedience than what other people are doing. Teach me to value obedience more and more, over results. I like to see the results of my labors, but I see this morning that obedience is more valuable.
Yours,
Jeff
“Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin, to see the plumb line in Zerubbabel’s hand.” (The seven lamps represent the eyes of the Lord that search all around the world.)”
Zechariah 4:10 NLT
Observation:
The Lord is speaking to Zechariah concerning the building of the Temple. He tells him not to despise the small beginnings because the Lord rejoices just seeing the work started. God is more concerned with us starting the work He has given us than with seeing great things happen. Small beginnings are beginnings.
Application:
I need to learn not to despise small beginnings and to realize that the Lord is more concerned about obedience than size, or anything else. I need to be confident in the fact that I obeyed Him in starting things than in looking at their success or failure through human eyes or comparing with someone else’s success.
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for this word today. Help me to walk in it and to be more concerned about obedience than what other people are doing. Teach me to value obedience more and more, over results. I like to see the results of my labors, but I see this morning that obedience is more valuable.
Yours,
Jeff
Monday, December 24, 2018
When God Decides to Bless
Scripture:
“I will shake all the nations, and the treasures of all the nations will be brought to this Temple. I will fill this place with glory, says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies. The silver is mine, and the gold is mine, says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies.”
Haggai 2:7-8 NLT
Observation:
God speaks through Haggai about rebuilding the Temple and getting things in order so He can bless His people. In telling him to rebuild the Temple, the Lord lets Haggai know He was going to shake the heavens and the treasures of the earth would be brought into the Temple. He says the gold is His and the silver is His. He lets Haggain know that He has whatever it takes to get the job done and more.
Application:
God is amazing and His power is limitless. When He wants to get something done, it will happen. When God decides to bless people, there is nothing that can stop Him. Every resource on this earth belongs to God and He can use it however He wants. I need to be reminded that God can overwhelmingly bless His people when it is needed. I need to walk in faith for God to provide all my needs according to His reaches in Christ Jesus. He is able to bless beyond measure in a moment.
Prayer:
Lord, You are amazing. I don’t want to live with holes in my pockets, but in the midst of Yoru blessing. Thank You for the amazing blessings recently in my life. You are taking care of me. Help me to walk in faith concerning finances until I am completely debt free. I don’t want to be a slave to any lender other than You.
Your Son,
Jeff
“I will shake all the nations, and the treasures of all the nations will be brought to this Temple. I will fill this place with glory, says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies. The silver is mine, and the gold is mine, says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies.”
Haggai 2:7-8 NLT
Observation:
God speaks through Haggai about rebuilding the Temple and getting things in order so He can bless His people. In telling him to rebuild the Temple, the Lord lets Haggai know He was going to shake the heavens and the treasures of the earth would be brought into the Temple. He says the gold is His and the silver is His. He lets Haggain know that He has whatever it takes to get the job done and more.
Application:
God is amazing and His power is limitless. When He wants to get something done, it will happen. When God decides to bless people, there is nothing that can stop Him. Every resource on this earth belongs to God and He can use it however He wants. I need to be reminded that God can overwhelmingly bless His people when it is needed. I need to walk in faith for God to provide all my needs according to His reaches in Christ Jesus. He is able to bless beyond measure in a moment.
Prayer:
Lord, You are amazing. I don’t want to live with holes in my pockets, but in the midst of Yoru blessing. Thank You for the amazing blessings recently in my life. You are taking care of me. Help me to walk in faith concerning finances until I am completely debt free. I don’t want to be a slave to any lender other than You.
Your Son,
Jeff
Saturday, December 22, 2018
I See God Moving
Scripture:
“I see God moving across the deserts from Edom, the Holy One coming from Mount Paran. His brilliant splendor fills the heavens, and the earth is filled with his praise.”
Habakkuk 3:3 NLT
Observation:
After Habakkuk receives the revelation that God was going to destroy those who trust in their own man-made idols, he composes a song to the Lord. The beginning of the song is worship and exalting the Lord, then it moves into this verse where the prophet says, “I see God moving”. In the midst of judgment, he sees God moving and working His plan.
Application:
Can I see God moving when things don’t look very good around me? Can I see God as brilliant splendor and the earth filled with His praise when things are not looking good for the people around me? I want to be able to see God moving in the good and the bad times. I want to be able to praise Him when things are good and when things are bad. In a country that deserves God’s judgement, I want to be the one who sees God moving by faith.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to walk in confidence that You are moving. Teach me to see what others are not seeing. Let the prophetic invade my life more and more. Let me walk with You and see what You see. I want to serve You well all the days of my life and I want to see what You are doing around the world and in my country.
Yours,
Jeff
“I see God moving across the deserts from Edom, the Holy One coming from Mount Paran. His brilliant splendor fills the heavens, and the earth is filled with his praise.”
Habakkuk 3:3 NLT
Observation:
After Habakkuk receives the revelation that God was going to destroy those who trust in their own man-made idols, he composes a song to the Lord. The beginning of the song is worship and exalting the Lord, then it moves into this verse where the prophet says, “I see God moving”. In the midst of judgment, he sees God moving and working His plan.
Application:
Can I see God moving when things don’t look very good around me? Can I see God as brilliant splendor and the earth filled with His praise when things are not looking good for the people around me? I want to be able to see God moving in the good and the bad times. I want to be able to praise Him when things are good and when things are bad. In a country that deserves God’s judgement, I want to be the one who sees God moving by faith.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to walk in confidence that You are moving. Teach me to see what others are not seeing. Let the prophetic invade my life more and more. Let me walk with You and see what You see. I want to serve You well all the days of my life and I want to see what You are doing around the world and in my country.
Yours,
Jeff
Friday, December 21, 2018
Closer
Scripture:
“The Lord is good, a strong refuge when trouble comes. He is close to those who trust in him.”
Nahum 1:7 NLT
Observation:
Nahum is a railing against the city of Nineveh. It basically says that the Lord is going to destroy Nineveh and wipe it away completely, but in the midst of his railing against Nineveh, Nahum says, “The Lord is good, a strong refuge when trouble comes. He is close to those who trust in Him.”
Application:
Even when it seems like God’s judgement is all around and nothing is going right, the Lord is good and a strong refuge for His people. He is close to those who trust Him, even when He is judging their surroundings. If we want to walk closer, we must trust Him more. Trusting Him means that we do things His way and not our own. Trusting Him means living the way He wants us to. When we do that, He is closer than ever. When trouble comes we should run closer, not away.
Prayer:
Lord, I want to draw close to You. I want to trust You more. I want to know Your heart and plans. I want to walk with You more and more closely. My heart longs to be with You and to encounter You more and more. I want to walk close to you.
Yours,
Jeff
“The Lord is good, a strong refuge when trouble comes. He is close to those who trust in him.”
Nahum 1:7 NLT
Observation:
Nahum is a railing against the city of Nineveh. It basically says that the Lord is going to destroy Nineveh and wipe it away completely, but in the midst of his railing against Nineveh, Nahum says, “The Lord is good, a strong refuge when trouble comes. He is close to those who trust in Him.”
Application:
Even when it seems like God’s judgement is all around and nothing is going right, the Lord is good and a strong refuge for His people. He is close to those who trust Him, even when He is judging their surroundings. If we want to walk closer, we must trust Him more. Trusting Him means that we do things His way and not our own. Trusting Him means living the way He wants us to. When we do that, He is closer than ever. When trouble comes we should run closer, not away.
Prayer:
Lord, I want to draw close to You. I want to trust You more. I want to know Your heart and plans. I want to walk with You more and more closely. My heart longs to be with You and to encounter You more and more. I want to walk close to you.
Yours,
Jeff
Thursday, December 20, 2018
Live Like He is Coming Quickly
Scripture:
“The one who testifies to these things says, “Yes, I am coming quickly.” Amen! Come, Lord Jesus!”
Revelation 22:20 TPT
Observation:
Jesus, at the end of the book of Revelation, declares that He is coming quickly and then John responds by saying “Come, Lord Jesus!” There is a definite promise here that Christ will return and that His return will be quick. The problem is found in the definition of quick. Quick has now turned into 2000 years, which makes His return much sooner than it was then.
Application:
If we believe the words of John and Jesus in the book of Revelation, we should live every day like it was our last. We should live expecting the quick and imminent return of Jesus Christ. Our minds should daily be reminded of His coming and what will happen at that point. I need to live every day like I knew Christ was coming that evening. I need to make the most of every opportunity because of the season I am living in.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to live and witness for You like it was my last day on earth and I knew You were coming that evening. Help me, with urgency, to proclaim Your Gospel. Remind me throughout each day of Your return and my future in You. Help me to make the most of each day You give me.
Yours,
Jeff
“The one who testifies to these things says, “Yes, I am coming quickly.” Amen! Come, Lord Jesus!”
Revelation 22:20 TPT
Observation:
Jesus, at the end of the book of Revelation, declares that He is coming quickly and then John responds by saying “Come, Lord Jesus!” There is a definite promise here that Christ will return and that His return will be quick. The problem is found in the definition of quick. Quick has now turned into 2000 years, which makes His return much sooner than it was then.
Application:
If we believe the words of John and Jesus in the book of Revelation, we should live every day like it was our last. We should live expecting the quick and imminent return of Jesus Christ. Our minds should daily be reminded of His coming and what will happen at that point. I need to live every day like I knew Christ was coming that evening. I need to make the most of every opportunity because of the season I am living in.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to live and witness for You like it was my last day on earth and I knew You were coming that evening. Help me, with urgency, to proclaim Your Gospel. Remind me throughout each day of Your return and my future in You. Help me to make the most of each day You give me.
Yours,
Jeff
Wednesday, December 19, 2018
The Future of My Enemy
Scripture:
“Then the devil who had deceived them was thrown into the same place with the wild beast and the false prophet—the lake of fire and sulfur—where they will be tormented day and night forever and ever.”
Revelation 20:10 TPT
Observation:
Here John describes the final judgment on Satan. Previous to this, he was bound for 1000 years during the Millenial reign of Christ. Then he was released for a short season to deceive the nations. After that, he is thrown into the lake of fire and sulfur where they will be tormented day and night forever.
Application:
Sometimes, knowing the future of your enemy, gives you the strength to endure the current things going on around you. Sometimes, during his attacks on the saints, we need to simply remind him who wins in the end. We need to be confident that, even though we may have lost some battles, we win the war and he will be tormented forever and ever. He will pay for everything he has brought into our lives.
Prayer:
Father, when times are hard, remind me that we win in the end and the enemy of our souls will finally be eternally defeated to rise no more. I look forward to that day! Teach me to walk in confidence and faith in this present life, knowing that in the future, we will win.
Yours,
Jeff
“Then the devil who had deceived them was thrown into the same place with the wild beast and the false prophet—the lake of fire and sulfur—where they will be tormented day and night forever and ever.”
Revelation 20:10 TPT
Observation:
Here John describes the final judgment on Satan. Previous to this, he was bound for 1000 years during the Millenial reign of Christ. Then he was released for a short season to deceive the nations. After that, he is thrown into the lake of fire and sulfur where they will be tormented day and night forever.
Application:
Sometimes, knowing the future of your enemy, gives you the strength to endure the current things going on around you. Sometimes, during his attacks on the saints, we need to simply remind him who wins in the end. We need to be confident that, even though we may have lost some battles, we win the war and he will be tormented forever and ever. He will pay for everything he has brought into our lives.
Prayer:
Father, when times are hard, remind me that we win in the end and the enemy of our souls will finally be eternally defeated to rise no more. I look forward to that day! Teach me to walk in confidence and faith in this present life, knowing that in the future, we will win.
Yours,
Jeff
Wednesday, December 12, 2018
Comfort When Living Right
Scripture:
“Should you talk that way, O family of Israel? Will the Lord’s Spirit have patience with such behavior? If you would do what is right, you would find my words comforting.”
Micah 2:7 NLT
Observation:
Micah tells the people here that if they do what is right, they will find his words comforting. In other words, obedience brings comfort to your soul because you know you are right with God and everything will work out because of that.
Application:
I need to keep the main thing, the main thing. Obedience to God is the number one priority in life. When we do that well, we will be comforted and not confronted. Obedience also brings confidence. When we are obedient to the Lord, we can walk in confidence with Him as well.
Prayer:
Father, I want to serve You and Your purposes well on the earth in my generation. I want to do Your will and accomplish You tasks. Help me to do what is right and not what is convenient. Help me to walk stronger and do the right thing at all times.
Your Son,
Jeff
“Should you talk that way, O family of Israel? Will the Lord’s Spirit have patience with such behavior? If you would do what is right, you would find my words comforting.”
Micah 2:7 NLT
Observation:
Micah tells the people here that if they do what is right, they will find his words comforting. In other words, obedience brings comfort to your soul because you know you are right with God and everything will work out because of that.
Application:
I need to keep the main thing, the main thing. Obedience to God is the number one priority in life. When we do that well, we will be comforted and not confronted. Obedience also brings confidence. When we are obedient to the Lord, we can walk in confidence with Him as well.
Prayer:
Father, I want to serve You and Your purposes well on the earth in my generation. I want to do Your will and accomplish You tasks. Help me to do what is right and not what is convenient. Help me to walk stronger and do the right thing at all times.
Your Son,
Jeff
Tuesday, December 11, 2018
God’s Love for the Lost
Scripture:
“Then the Lord said, “You feel sorry about the plant, though you did nothing to put it there. It came quickly and died quickly. But Nineveh has more than 120,000 people living in spiritual darkness, not to mention all the animals. Shouldn’t I feel sorry for such a great city?””
Jonah 4:10-11 NLT
Observation:
God made a plant quickly to protect Jonah from the sun. The next day, God took the plant away and had it eaten. Jonah complained about it and God told him, “You feel sorry about the plant, though you did nothing to put it there... But Nineveh has more than 120,000 people living in spiritual darkness, not to mention all the animals. Shouldn’t I feel sorry for such a great city?”
Application:
God loves lost people. He doesn’t want any to perish, but all to come to repentance. He will go out of His way to bring lost people to Himself. He will even offend us, to get them saved. I need to love lost people with the same passion the Lord loves lost people. I must have a heart to see them saved like He does.
Prayer:
Father, give me Your heart for lost people. Help me in my personal witness and evangelism. Teach me to love the way You love. Help me not to make excuses about building Your kingdom, but to do it with all my heart. I want to reach more souls for You.
Your Son,
Jeff
“Then the Lord said, “You feel sorry about the plant, though you did nothing to put it there. It came quickly and died quickly. But Nineveh has more than 120,000 people living in spiritual darkness, not to mention all the animals. Shouldn’t I feel sorry for such a great city?””
Jonah 4:10-11 NLT
Observation:
God made a plant quickly to protect Jonah from the sun. The next day, God took the plant away and had it eaten. Jonah complained about it and God told him, “You feel sorry about the plant, though you did nothing to put it there... But Nineveh has more than 120,000 people living in spiritual darkness, not to mention all the animals. Shouldn’t I feel sorry for such a great city?”
Application:
God loves lost people. He doesn’t want any to perish, but all to come to repentance. He will go out of His way to bring lost people to Himself. He will even offend us, to get them saved. I need to love lost people with the same passion the Lord loves lost people. I must have a heart to see them saved like He does.
Prayer:
Father, give me Your heart for lost people. Help me in my personal witness and evangelism. Teach me to love the way You love. Help me not to make excuses about building Your kingdom, but to do it with all my heart. I want to reach more souls for You.
Your Son,
Jeff
Friday, December 7, 2018
Help from the Helper
Scripture:
“Do what is good and run from evil so that you may live! Then the Lord God of Heaven’s Armies will be your helper, just as you have claimed.”
Amos 5:14 NLT
Observation:
Amos declares that Israel had abandoned God and was putting their trust in themselves and the work of their own hands. They were not acting in justice and righteousness. God said to them through Amos to do good and run from evil so they would live and then God, the Lord of Heaven’s Armies would be their helper.
Application:
I want the Lord of Heaven’s Armies to be on my side and being my helper. I need His intervention in my life in every area. I desire the Lord to work with me and not against me. Therefore, I must do good and run from evil. I need to run from anything that doesn’t look like God and anything that looks like sin or is obedience. I want to walk in the strong blessing of God, which comes on obedience.
Prayer:
Lord of Heaven’s Armies, I want to walk with You and work with You. I want to be one with You. I want You to flow in and through my life. Help me to live a life of doing good and running from evil. Teach me to follow Your ways with all my heart, soul, mind and strength. I am Yours. Lead me I pray.
Your Son,
Jeff
“Do what is good and run from evil so that you may live! Then the Lord God of Heaven’s Armies will be your helper, just as you have claimed.”
Amos 5:14 NLT
Observation:
Amos declares that Israel had abandoned God and was putting their trust in themselves and the work of their own hands. They were not acting in justice and righteousness. God said to them through Amos to do good and run from evil so they would live and then God, the Lord of Heaven’s Armies would be their helper.
Application:
I want the Lord of Heaven’s Armies to be on my side and being my helper. I need His intervention in my life in every area. I desire the Lord to work with me and not against me. Therefore, I must do good and run from evil. I need to run from anything that doesn’t look like God and anything that looks like sin or is obedience. I want to walk in the strong blessing of God, which comes on obedience.
Prayer:
Lord of Heaven’s Armies, I want to walk with You and work with You. I want to be one with You. I want You to flow in and through my life. Help me to live a life of doing good and running from evil. Teach me to follow Your ways with all my heart, soul, mind and strength. I am Yours. Lead me I pray.
Your Son,
Jeff
Thursday, December 6, 2018
Agreeing with God
Scripture:
“Can two people walk together without agreeing on the direction?”
Amos 3:3 NLT
Observation:
I have often used this verse to talk about a team going the same direction as a leadership principle, but have never really looked at the context. God is really saying that Israel was about to be judged because they had not walked in agreement with God. They had not been walking in God’s direction.
Application:
God wants us to walk with Him, but we can’t walk with Him unless we agree on the direction. You can’t walk with God going your own direction. He sets the direction and we walk with Him. He wants to set our course and it is our job to agree with His will for our lives and to walk together toward His will. I want to walk. In agreement with God and His direction for my life.
Prayer:
Lord, we can’t walk together unless we agree on the direction. I don’t want to tell You the direction I need to go, but want You to set my course and show me where I need to be. I give myself to You again this morning and say, “Thy Kingdom come and Thy will be done” in my life, my future, my plans, and my direction. Lead me and I will follow.
Your Son,
Jeff
“Can two people walk together without agreeing on the direction?”
Amos 3:3 NLT
Observation:
I have often used this verse to talk about a team going the same direction as a leadership principle, but have never really looked at the context. God is really saying that Israel was about to be judged because they had not walked in agreement with God. They had not been walking in God’s direction.
Application:
God wants us to walk with Him, but we can’t walk with Him unless we agree on the direction. You can’t walk with God going your own direction. He sets the direction and we walk with Him. He wants to set our course and it is our job to agree with His will for our lives and to walk together toward His will. I want to walk. In agreement with God and His direction for my life.
Prayer:
Lord, we can’t walk together unless we agree on the direction. I don’t want to tell You the direction I need to go, but want You to set my course and show me where I need to be. I give myself to You again this morning and say, “Thy Kingdom come and Thy will be done” in my life, my future, my plans, and my direction. Lead me and I will follow.
Your Son,
Jeff
Wednesday, December 5, 2018
Faith and Victory Over the World
Scripture:
“You see, every child of God overcomes the world, for our faith is the victorious power that triumphs over the world. So who are the world conquerors, defeating its power? Those who believe that Jesus is the Son of God.”
1 John 5:4-5 TPT
Observation:
Here John says that every child of God overcomes the world and it is faith that is the victorious power that triumphs over the world. He continues to say who the world conquerors are... Those who believe Jesus is the Son of God. Faith is the victory and power over the things of this world.
Application:
I need to understand thes verses better and really let them get into my spirit. I want to walk by faith more and more. I want to overcome the world, the flesh and the devil. I want to live a truly victorious life through Christ and in Christ. I want to walk as He walked.
Prayer:
Lord God, increase my faith. I want to overcome the world and live a victorious life in Christ. Fill my life with Your overcoming, overwhelming power. I want to live a life that brings You honor and praise.
“You see, every child of God overcomes the world, for our faith is the victorious power that triumphs over the world. So who are the world conquerors, defeating its power? Those who believe that Jesus is the Son of God.”
1 John 5:4-5 TPT
Observation:
Here John says that every child of God overcomes the world and it is faith that is the victorious power that triumphs over the world. He continues to say who the world conquerors are... Those who believe Jesus is the Son of God. Faith is the victory and power over the things of this world.
Application:
I need to understand thes verses better and really let them get into my spirit. I want to walk by faith more and more. I want to overcome the world, the flesh and the devil. I want to live a truly victorious life through Christ and in Christ. I want to walk as He walked.
Prayer:
Lord God, increase my faith. I want to overcome the world and live a victorious life in Christ. Fill my life with Your overcoming, overwhelming power. I want to live a life that brings You honor and praise.
Tuesday, December 4, 2018
Flourish in Me
Scripture:
“For all who obey his commands find their lives joined in union with him, and he lives and flourishes in them. We know and have proof that he constantly lives and flourishes in us, by the Spirit that he has given us.”
1 John 3:24 TPT
Observation:
In this passage, John tells us that all who obey God’s commands, which he described earlier as loving one another, find themselves joined in union with Christ. He goes on to say that Christ lives and flourishes in them. The Spirit is proof that Christ is living and flourishing in us.
Application:
I don’t want Jesus just to live in me. I want Him to flourish! When something is flourishing, it is growing and healthy. When I think of flourishing, I think of something that has good soil and can grow in the right environment. When I obey His commands to love God first and foremost and to love my other brothers and sisters, my spiritual life can flourish.
Prayer:
Jesus, I want You to flourish in my life. I want to live a life that welcomes You and prepares a place for You and Your wishes to flourish. Help me to love God with all my heart and to love my neighbor completely. I want You to flourish in my life.
Your Son,
Jeff
“For all who obey his commands find their lives joined in union with him, and he lives and flourishes in them. We know and have proof that he constantly lives and flourishes in us, by the Spirit that he has given us.”
1 John 3:24 TPT
Observation:
In this passage, John tells us that all who obey God’s commands, which he described earlier as loving one another, find themselves joined in union with Christ. He goes on to say that Christ lives and flourishes in them. The Spirit is proof that Christ is living and flourishing in us.
Application:
I don’t want Jesus just to live in me. I want Him to flourish! When something is flourishing, it is growing and healthy. When I think of flourishing, I think of something that has good soil and can grow in the right environment. When I obey His commands to love God first and foremost and to love my other brothers and sisters, my spiritual life can flourish.
Prayer:
Jesus, I want You to flourish in my life. I want to live a life that welcomes You and prepares a place for You and Your wishes to flourish. Help me to love God with all my heart and to love my neighbor completely. I want You to flourish in my life.
Your Son,
Jeff
Monday, December 3, 2018
God Gives Back
Scripture:
“The Lord says, “I will give you back what you lost to the swarming locusts, the hopping locusts, the stripping locusts, and the cutting locusts. It was I who sent this great destroying army against you.”
Joel 2:25 NLT
Observation:
God is speaking through Joel and tells HIs people that they have wandered far away from Him and His ways. They had decided to do their own thing and He was turning His back on them. Even when He was Turning His back, He had a plan for their restoration. God always has a plan of restoration. He may allow some stuff to happen because of our disobedience, but He always gives back.
Application:
When we fail God and don’t come through on our part of the Covenant, God is always there waiting for us like the father of the prodigal son. He will allow us to see their results of our choices, but then waits with open arms and says, “I will give back what you lost”, when we turn to Him completely. May we always be quick to repent when we get off track. He wants to bless us when we do.
Prayer:
Lord, teach me to walk with You completely. When I mess up, help me to be quick to repent, knowing Your amazing heart to restore. You are incredibly faithful, help me to be more like You in wevery area of life. I want to show Your glory in and through my life. Help me to treat others like You treat me and them.
Your Son,
Jeff
“The Lord says, “I will give you back what you lost to the swarming locusts, the hopping locusts, the stripping locusts, and the cutting locusts. It was I who sent this great destroying army against you.”
Joel 2:25 NLT
Observation:
God is speaking through Joel and tells HIs people that they have wandered far away from Him and His ways. They had decided to do their own thing and He was turning His back on them. Even when He was Turning His back, He had a plan for their restoration. God always has a plan of restoration. He may allow some stuff to happen because of our disobedience, but He always gives back.
Application:
When we fail God and don’t come through on our part of the Covenant, God is always there waiting for us like the father of the prodigal son. He will allow us to see their results of our choices, but then waits with open arms and says, “I will give back what you lost”, when we turn to Him completely. May we always be quick to repent when we get off track. He wants to bless us when we do.
Prayer:
Lord, teach me to walk with You completely. When I mess up, help me to be quick to repent, knowing Your amazing heart to restore. You are incredibly faithful, help me to be more like You in wevery area of life. I want to show Your glory in and through my life. Help me to treat others like You treat me and them.
Your Son,
Jeff
Sunday, December 2, 2018
Consumed with Godliness
Scripture:
“Since all these things are on the verge of being dismantled, don’t you see how vital it is to live a holy life? We must be consumed with godliness”
2 Peter 3:11 TPT
Observation:
Peter says here that the delay in the return of Christ was simply because He wants more people to be saved. He then says that, because of the nearness of Christ’s return, it is vital to live a holy life. He finishes with the words, “We must be consumed with godliness,”
Application:
This Passion Translation uses the words, “consumed with godliness”. Godliness should be what we are consumed with. We should pursue godliness with passion and it should be the primary pursuit of our lives. I want to be a man of God, but I need to pursue that with everything I have instead of just hoping to get there.
Prayer:
Father, I want to be godly. I want to reflect Your image to this world. Help me to live a life that is consumed by godliness. Help me to realize how vital it is to walk in godliness. I want to be godly. Help me to walk with the Spirit and to be consumed with godliness.
Yours,
Jeff
“Since all these things are on the verge of being dismantled, don’t you see how vital it is to live a holy life? We must be consumed with godliness”
2 Peter 3:11 TPT
Observation:
Peter says here that the delay in the return of Christ was simply because He wants more people to be saved. He then says that, because of the nearness of Christ’s return, it is vital to live a holy life. He finishes with the words, “We must be consumed with godliness,”
Application:
This Passion Translation uses the words, “consumed with godliness”. Godliness should be what we are consumed with. We should pursue godliness with passion and it should be the primary pursuit of our lives. I want to be a man of God, but I need to pursue that with everything I have instead of just hoping to get there.
Prayer:
Father, I want to be godly. I want to reflect Your image to this world. Help me to live a life that is consumed by godliness. Help me to realize how vital it is to walk in godliness. I want to be godly. Help me to walk with the Spirit and to be consumed with godliness.
Yours,
Jeff
Saturday, December 1, 2018
Heal my Faithlessness
Scripture:
“The Lord says, “Then I will heal you of your faithlessness; my love will know no bounds, for my anger will be gone forever.”
Hosea 14:4 NLT
Observation:
Hear the Lord tells Israel that if they will abandon their other gods and come back to Him completely, He will heal their unfaithfulness and demonstrate His limitless love to them. No matter how far Israel would go from God, He was always ready and willing to receive them back and begin blessing them when they would repent.
Application:
God would much rather have us walk in His blessing and abundant life than To allow us to bring destruction on ourselves. He has always longed to bless His people, but He needed His people to completely follow Him and have no other gods before Him. I want to walk in the blessing and favor of the Lord and see His goodness all the days of my life.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to not be like Israel, constantly walking away and doing my own thing. Help me to stay on Your path and to appreciate Your blessings and favor on my life. I belong to You. I am Yours. I want my life to bring You honor and praise. Help me to reflect Your desires to the world around me.
Yours,
Jeff
“The Lord says, “Then I will heal you of your faithlessness; my love will know no bounds, for my anger will be gone forever.”
Hosea 14:4 NLT
Observation:
Hear the Lord tells Israel that if they will abandon their other gods and come back to Him completely, He will heal their unfaithfulness and demonstrate His limitless love to them. No matter how far Israel would go from God, He was always ready and willing to receive them back and begin blessing them when they would repent.
Application:
God would much rather have us walk in His blessing and abundant life than To allow us to bring destruction on ourselves. He has always longed to bless His people, but He needed His people to completely follow Him and have no other gods before Him. I want to walk in the blessing and favor of the Lord and see His goodness all the days of my life.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to not be like Israel, constantly walking away and doing my own thing. Help me to stay on Your path and to appreciate Your blessings and favor on my life. I belong to You. I am Yours. I want my life to bring You honor and praise. Help me to reflect Your desires to the world around me.
Yours,
Jeff
Friday, November 30, 2018
Honoring God
Scripture:
“For my people are determined to desert me. They call me the Most High, but they don’t truly honor me.”
Hosea 11:7 NLT
Observation:
God is speaking here through Hosea to Israel and He says that His people are determined to desert Him. Israel continually walked away from God and began worshiping other gods. The Lord told them, “You call me the Most High, but they don’t truly honor me”. God wants to be honored, not in word, but in deed.
Application:
When we say we are going to serve God, we need to mean what we are saying. God wants us to honor Him with our lives. We need to live lives that bring honor to the Lord. When we do, then we can expect His blessings in our lives. He honors those who honor Him. My life should not just praise the Lord with my lips, but truly honor God with all my heart.
Prayer:
Father, let my life bring Your not only verbal praise, but true honor. Teach me what it is to honor You completely. Show me how I can serve You better and bring You honor. Help me to live a life that will never bring You dishonor.
Yours,
Jeff
“For my people are determined to desert me. They call me the Most High, but they don’t truly honor me.”
Hosea 11:7 NLT
Observation:
God is speaking here through Hosea to Israel and He says that His people are determined to desert Him. Israel continually walked away from God and began worshiping other gods. The Lord told them, “You call me the Most High, but they don’t truly honor me”. God wants to be honored, not in word, but in deed.
Application:
When we say we are going to serve God, we need to mean what we are saying. God wants us to honor Him with our lives. We need to live lives that bring honor to the Lord. When we do, then we can expect His blessings in our lives. He honors those who honor Him. My life should not just praise the Lord with my lips, but truly honor God with all my heart.
Prayer:
Father, let my life bring Your not only verbal praise, but true honor. Teach me what it is to honor You completely. Show me how I can serve You better and bring You honor. Help me to live a life that will never bring You dishonor.
Yours,
Jeff
Thursday, November 29, 2018
When God Gives Up On You
Scripture:
“My God will reject the people of Israel because they will not listen or obey. They will be wanderers, homeless among the nations.”
Hosea 9:17 NLT
Observation:
Hosea declares to Israel that they have sinned and continue in their evil ways of worshiping other gods at the altars made for the worship of Jehovah. God says He has had enough of it and He will reject them because they haven’t listened to Him or obeyed Him. He says they will be wanderers and homeless among the nation.
Application:
God is a god of incredible love and mercy. He will continue to chase after someone for an amazingly long time, but when they refuse Him long enough, He will give them over to their desires and allow them to experience the consequences of their disobedience. He does this, hoping they will return to Him completely and follow Him.
Prayer:
Lord God Almighty, I pray today for those who have rejected You and turned away from You to do their own thing. May they see the error of their ways and turn back to follow You. Let the prodigals feel the weight of their disobedience and come running home to You. Use consequences, use whatever it takes, but bring them home I pray.
Your Son,
Jeff
“My God will reject the people of Israel because they will not listen or obey. They will be wanderers, homeless among the nations.”
Hosea 9:17 NLT
Observation:
Hosea declares to Israel that they have sinned and continue in their evil ways of worshiping other gods at the altars made for the worship of Jehovah. God says He has had enough of it and He will reject them because they haven’t listened to Him or obeyed Him. He says they will be wanderers and homeless among the nation.
Application:
God is a god of incredible love and mercy. He will continue to chase after someone for an amazingly long time, but when they refuse Him long enough, He will give them over to their desires and allow them to experience the consequences of their disobedience. He does this, hoping they will return to Him completely and follow Him.
Prayer:
Lord God Almighty, I pray today for those who have rejected You and turned away from You to do their own thing. May they see the error of their ways and turn back to follow You. Let the prodigals feel the weight of their disobedience and come running home to You. Use consequences, use whatever it takes, but bring them home I pray.
Your Son,
Jeff
Wednesday, November 28, 2018
To Know The Lord
Scripture:
“Oh, that we might know the Lord! Let us press on to know him. He will respond to us as surely as the arrival of dawn or the coming of rains in early spring.””
Hosea 6:3 NLT
Observation:
Hoseas speaks to the people about the Lord. He says, “Oh, that we might know the Lord! Let us press on to know Him”. He then goes on to tell the people, “He will respond to us”. Even though the people of Israel had prostituted themselves with other gods, Hosea knew that if they cried out to the Lord, He would surely respond to them because God always responds to repentance.
Application:
God is faithful to us, even when we are unfaithful to Him. Like Israel, we walk away and do our own things at times. God waits for us to press on to know Him, but He always responds to the repentant cry of His people. When we mess up, we have an advocate and God is simply waiting for our return.
Prayer:
Father, thank you for showing me Your faithfulness this morning. You are amazing! Help me to be more like You as I relate to people. Help me to follow You closely and to walk according to Your ways at all times. Help me to walk in Your faithfulness every day and to represent You well.
Your Son,
Jeff
“Oh, that we might know the Lord! Let us press on to know him. He will respond to us as surely as the arrival of dawn or the coming of rains in early spring.””
Hosea 6:3 NLT
Observation:
Hoseas speaks to the people about the Lord. He says, “Oh, that we might know the Lord! Let us press on to know Him”. He then goes on to tell the people, “He will respond to us”. Even though the people of Israel had prostituted themselves with other gods, Hosea knew that if they cried out to the Lord, He would surely respond to them because God always responds to repentance.
Application:
God is faithful to us, even when we are unfaithful to Him. Like Israel, we walk away and do our own things at times. God waits for us to press on to know Him, but He always responds to the repentant cry of His people. When we mess up, we have an advocate and God is simply waiting for our return.
Prayer:
Father, thank you for showing me Your faithfulness this morning. You are amazing! Help me to be more like You as I relate to people. Help me to follow You closely and to walk according to Your ways at all times. Help me to walk in Your faithfulness every day and to represent You well.
Your Son,
Jeff
Tuesday, November 27, 2018
Children of the Living God
Scripture:
““Yet the time will come when Israel’s people will be like the sands of the seashore—too many to count! Then, at the place where they were told, ‘You are not my people,’ it will be said, ‘You are children of the living God.’”
Hosea 1:10 NLT
Observation:
Hosea was told by God to marry a prostitute to demonstrate God’s relationship with Israel. He says Israel has spent her life like a prostitute who won’t be committed to one lover. As the Lord Is bringing this message He also reminds them, “Israel’s people will be like the sand of the seashore and where they were told they were not God’s people, they would be called the children of the living God.
Application:
God’s love for us doesn’t change because we mess up at times and do wrong things. We may go through a season of dryness, but His desire is always to restore His children. He wants them to be the children of the living God. As his children, He wants us to be faithful to Him, but even when we are not, God will pull us back and restore us. He is faithful even when we are not!
Prayer:
Father, You are faithful to Your people. Thank You for letting me into Your kingdom and into relationship with You. I don’t want to live like a prostitute, but want to know Your blessings and abundant favor all the days of my life. Help me to serve You today and every day. Your love and acceptance is amazing!
Yours,
Jeff
““Yet the time will come when Israel’s people will be like the sands of the seashore—too many to count! Then, at the place where they were told, ‘You are not my people,’ it will be said, ‘You are children of the living God.’”
Hosea 1:10 NLT
Observation:
Hosea was told by God to marry a prostitute to demonstrate God’s relationship with Israel. He says Israel has spent her life like a prostitute who won’t be committed to one lover. As the Lord Is bringing this message He also reminds them, “Israel’s people will be like the sand of the seashore and where they were told they were not God’s people, they would be called the children of the living God.
Application:
God’s love for us doesn’t change because we mess up at times and do wrong things. We may go through a season of dryness, but His desire is always to restore His children. He wants them to be the children of the living God. As his children, He wants us to be faithful to Him, but even when we are not, God will pull us back and restore us. He is faithful even when we are not!
Prayer:
Father, You are faithful to Your people. Thank You for letting me into Your kingdom and into relationship with You. I don’t want to live like a prostitute, but want to know Your blessings and abundant favor all the days of my life. Help me to serve You today and every day. Your love and acceptance is amazing!
Yours,
Jeff
Saturday, November 24, 2018
What God Determines Will Come to Pass
Scripture:
““The king will do as he pleases, exalting himself and claiming to be greater than every god, even blaspheming the God of gods. He will succeed, but only until the time of wrath is completed. For what has been determined will surely take place.”
Daniel 11:36 NLT
Observation:
Daniel was describing in great detail, what would happen at the end of days. He was vividly describing the kings in the last days and how they would interact and the battles they would fight. He ends this portion of description by saying, “what has been determined will surely take place.” IN others words, what God has planned, will come to pass.
Application:
God is incredible and is working all things, worldwide, for His glory. He has a plan, a very detailed plan. It will surely come to pass exactly as He has planned. My job is to find out what God is doing and work with Him because what He wants done, will be done.
Prayer:
Lord, I want to work right alongside You as You bring Your plan to pass. Help me to stay in step with You as we enter these last days. I want to know what You are doing and I want to be part of it. You are the all-powerful God and nothing happens without Your knowledge.
You are the best,
Jeff
““The king will do as he pleases, exalting himself and claiming to be greater than every god, even blaspheming the God of gods. He will succeed, but only until the time of wrath is completed. For what has been determined will surely take place.”
Daniel 11:36 NLT
Observation:
Daniel was describing in great detail, what would happen at the end of days. He was vividly describing the kings in the last days and how they would interact and the battles they would fight. He ends this portion of description by saying, “what has been determined will surely take place.” IN others words, what God has planned, will come to pass.
Application:
God is incredible and is working all things, worldwide, for His glory. He has a plan, a very detailed plan. It will surely come to pass exactly as He has planned. My job is to find out what God is doing and work with Him because what He wants done, will be done.
Prayer:
Lord, I want to work right alongside You as You bring Your plan to pass. Help me to stay in step with You as we enter these last days. I want to know what You are doing and I want to be part of it. You are the all-powerful God and nothing happens without Your knowledge.
You are the best,
Jeff
Friday, November 23, 2018
Precious to God
Scripture:
““Don’t be afraid,” he said, “for you are very precious to God. Peace! Be encouraged! Be strong!” As he spoke these words to me, I suddenly felt stronger and said to him, “Please speak to me, my lord, for you have strengthened me.””
Daniel 10:19 NLT
Observation:
Daniel was receiving some super important words about the kingdoms of the world and about the last days. An angel came to deliver him a message. When he did, Daniel felt weak and fell on his face before the messenger. Then the Lord spoke, “you are very precious to God. Peace! Be encouraged! Be strong!” The angel let Daniel know who he was to God and then strengthened him.
Application:
We must know who we are to God if we are going to accomplish His purposes in the earth. We can say with Daniel that we are very precious to God because He gave His own Son for us. We can receive the next words as well. We can be peaceful, encouraged and strong because we know who we are in God. I need a revelation of how precious I am to God today.
Prayer:
Father, I know You love me. I am confident in my head, but I’m not sure my heart gets the fullness of this revelation. Help me to walk more confidently in my relationship with You and help me to walk in peace, encouragement and strength.
Your Son,
Jeff
““Don’t be afraid,” he said, “for you are very precious to God. Peace! Be encouraged! Be strong!” As he spoke these words to me, I suddenly felt stronger and said to him, “Please speak to me, my lord, for you have strengthened me.””
Daniel 10:19 NLT
Observation:
Daniel was receiving some super important words about the kingdoms of the world and about the last days. An angel came to deliver him a message. When he did, Daniel felt weak and fell on his face before the messenger. Then the Lord spoke, “you are very precious to God. Peace! Be encouraged! Be strong!” The angel let Daniel know who he was to God and then strengthened him.
Application:
We must know who we are to God if we are going to accomplish His purposes in the earth. We can say with Daniel that we are very precious to God because He gave His own Son for us. We can receive the next words as well. We can be peaceful, encouraged and strong because we know who we are in God. I need a revelation of how precious I am to God today.
Prayer:
Father, I know You love me. I am confident in my head, but I’m not sure my heart gets the fullness of this revelation. Help me to walk more confidently in my relationship with You and help me to walk in peace, encouragement and strength.
Your Son,
Jeff
Wednesday, November 21, 2018
The Revealer of Secrets
Scripture:
“Daniel replied, “There are no wise men, enchanters, magicians, or fortune-tellers who can reveal the king’s secret. But there is a God in heaven who reveals secrets, and he has shown King Nebuchadnezzar what will happen in the future. Now I will tell you your dream and the visions you saw as you lay on your bed.”
Daniel 2:27-28 NLT
Observation:
Nebuchadnezzar had a dream and wanted his magicians to tell him his dream and its interpretation. Of course they couldn’t, but Daniel asked permission to seek God. When he and his friends sought the Lord, he was shown the dream and the interpretation. God used this to promote Daniel and his friends in the kingdom. In daniel’s reply to the king he said there is a God in heaven who reveals secrets.
Application:
God knows all and we have access to Him, the source of all wisdom, guidance, and revelation. There is no secret He doesn’t know. There is no situation He doesn’t know how to handle. There is nothing above Him and He has given Himself to those who love Him. I want the revealer of secrets to speak to me and show me things I could know no other way. I want to see into the spiritual world more clear.
Prayer:
Father, You know all. There is no secret or dream that You do not know about. There are no plans You have not heard already. I want to walk close to You and understand spiritual things at a higher level. I want to know the revealer of secrets. Show me things to come. Teach me to hear You more and more accurately.
Yours,
Jeff
“Daniel replied, “There are no wise men, enchanters, magicians, or fortune-tellers who can reveal the king’s secret. But there is a God in heaven who reveals secrets, and he has shown King Nebuchadnezzar what will happen in the future. Now I will tell you your dream and the visions you saw as you lay on your bed.”
Daniel 2:27-28 NLT
Observation:
Nebuchadnezzar had a dream and wanted his magicians to tell him his dream and its interpretation. Of course they couldn’t, but Daniel asked permission to seek God. When he and his friends sought the Lord, he was shown the dream and the interpretation. God used this to promote Daniel and his friends in the kingdom. In daniel’s reply to the king he said there is a God in heaven who reveals secrets.
Application:
God knows all and we have access to Him, the source of all wisdom, guidance, and revelation. There is no secret He doesn’t know. There is no situation He doesn’t know how to handle. There is nothing above Him and He has given Himself to those who love Him. I want the revealer of secrets to speak to me and show me things I could know no other way. I want to see into the spiritual world more clear.
Prayer:
Father, You know all. There is no secret or dream that You do not know about. There are no plans You have not heard already. I want to walk close to You and understand spiritual things at a higher level. I want to know the revealer of secrets. Show me things to come. Teach me to hear You more and more accurately.
Yours,
Jeff
Tuesday, November 20, 2018
Loving God’s People
Scripture:
“Since each of you are part of God’s family never complain or grumble about each other so that judgment will not come on you, for the true Judge is near and very ready to appear!”
James (Jacob) 5:9 TPT
Observation:
James here tells the believers that since they are part of God’s family, they shouldn’t complain or grumble about each other because the true judge is coming. James tells us not to allow bitterness, anger, unforgiveness, etc. into our hearts toward other believers.
Application:
It is very apparent from Scripture that judging others, criticizing others, and putting others down is something God does not approve of. When I think about this I hear the Lord saying, “Love what I love and hate what I hate”. God loves his people and hates sin and the things of this world. We are to love what God loves. If we love people, we can’t be complaining and grumbling about them. Rather, we should be looking for ways to be a blessing to them.
Prayer:
Father, Help me to walk this walk through life as one who hears Your voice and follows closely. Help me to love what You love and hate what You hate. I am Yours and want to serve You well the rest of my days on earth. Teach me to walk as Christ walked each day.
Your Son,
Jeff
“Since each of you are part of God’s family never complain or grumble about each other so that judgment will not come on you, for the true Judge is near and very ready to appear!”
James (Jacob) 5:9 TPT
Observation:
James here tells the believers that since they are part of God’s family, they shouldn’t complain or grumble about each other because the true judge is coming. James tells us not to allow bitterness, anger, unforgiveness, etc. into our hearts toward other believers.
Application:
It is very apparent from Scripture that judging others, criticizing others, and putting others down is something God does not approve of. When I think about this I hear the Lord saying, “Love what I love and hate what I hate”. God loves his people and hates sin and the things of this world. We are to love what God loves. If we love people, we can’t be complaining and grumbling about them. Rather, we should be looking for ways to be a blessing to them.
Prayer:
Father, Help me to walk this walk through life as one who hears Your voice and follows closely. Help me to love what You love and hate what You hate. I am Yours and want to serve You well the rest of my days on earth. Teach me to walk as Christ walked each day.
Your Son,
Jeff
Monday, November 19, 2018
Advertise It
Scripture:
“If you consider yourself to be wise and one who understands the ways of God, advertise it with a beautiful, fruitful life guided by wisdom’s gentleness. Never brag or boast about what you’ve done and you’ll prove that you’re truly wise.”
James (Jacob) 3:13 TPT
Observation:
James says here that if we consider ourselves wise and understanding, we should advertise it with a beautiful, fruitful life guided by wisdom’s gentleness. Our lives are like placards for God. We live them out as an advertisement of who God is.
Application:
I want to advertise well for the Lord. Therefore, I need to live a beautiful and fruitful life guided by gentleness. I need to work more at being fruitful instead of just busy. I’ve been learning a lot about fruitfulness as opposed to busyness lately. I want to be fruitful and advertise well for Jesus.
Prayer:
Father, help me to be a great advertisement for You. Let my life bring Your praise and let me honor You in every way. Open wisdom’s treasuries to me and let me live with the wise. I am Your and want my life to advertise for You well.
Your Son,
Jeff
“If you consider yourself to be wise and one who understands the ways of God, advertise it with a beautiful, fruitful life guided by wisdom’s gentleness. Never brag or boast about what you’ve done and you’ll prove that you’re truly wise.”
James (Jacob) 3:13 TPT
Observation:
James says here that if we consider ourselves wise and understanding, we should advertise it with a beautiful, fruitful life guided by wisdom’s gentleness. Our lives are like placards for God. We live them out as an advertisement of who God is.
Application:
I want to advertise well for the Lord. Therefore, I need to live a beautiful and fruitful life guided by gentleness. I need to work more at being fruitful instead of just busy. I’ve been learning a lot about fruitfulness as opposed to busyness lately. I want to be fruitful and advertise well for Jesus.
Prayer:
Father, help me to be a great advertisement for You. Let my life bring Your praise and let me honor You in every way. Open wisdom’s treasuries to me and let me live with the wise. I am Your and want my life to advertise for You well.
Your Son,
Jeff
Saturday, November 17, 2018
God’s Heart for the Oppressed
Scripture:
““For this is what the Sovereign Lord says: Enough, you princes of Israel! Stop your violence and oppression and do what is just and right. Quit robbing and cheating my people out of their land. Stop expelling them from their homes, says the Sovereign Lord.”
Ezekiel 45:9 NLT
Observation:
God is speaking through Ezekiel about His heart for the poor and oppressed people of Israel. He speaks to those in authority and tells them they have to stop their violence and oppression and do what is just and right. He says they have to quit robbing and cheating His people out of their land. God defends the poor from the rich and ruling.
Application:
When we are helping release those who are under persecution from their oppressors, we are doing what God would do. All through the Bible one can see God as one who liberates His people from oppression and doesn’t allow people anywhere to stay under oppression. He comes to set the captive free from those above them. Even Jesus came “to set the captives free and liberate the oppressed”. When we do the same, we are doing the will of the Father.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to see needs in this area and give me the strength to do something about it. I have never seen this like I see it now in Your word. Help me to to help others be really free in every way, spiritually, emotionally, financially, and physically.
Your Son,
Jeff
““For this is what the Sovereign Lord says: Enough, you princes of Israel! Stop your violence and oppression and do what is just and right. Quit robbing and cheating my people out of their land. Stop expelling them from their homes, says the Sovereign Lord.”
Ezekiel 45:9 NLT
Observation:
God is speaking through Ezekiel about His heart for the poor and oppressed people of Israel. He speaks to those in authority and tells them they have to stop their violence and oppression and do what is just and right. He says they have to quit robbing and cheating His people out of their land. God defends the poor from the rich and ruling.
Application:
When we are helping release those who are under persecution from their oppressors, we are doing what God would do. All through the Bible one can see God as one who liberates His people from oppression and doesn’t allow people anywhere to stay under oppression. He comes to set the captive free from those above them. Even Jesus came “to set the captives free and liberate the oppressed”. When we do the same, we are doing the will of the Father.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to see needs in this area and give me the strength to do something about it. I have never seen this like I see it now in Your word. Help me to to help others be really free in every way, spiritually, emotionally, financially, and physically.
Your Son,
Jeff
Friday, November 16, 2018
Face Down Worship
Scripture:
“Then the man brought me through the north gateway to the front of the Temple. I looked and saw that the glory of the Lord filled the Temple of the Lord, and I fell face down on the ground.”
Ezekiel 44:4 NLT
Observation:
When Ezekiel encountered the glory of the Lord, his response was to all on his face to the ground. This same response happens in many places in the Bible. When a person sees the awesomeness of God, they will humble themselves before Him and whatever way they know how.
Application:
I want to be a face-down worshipper always. I want to live a life of humble adoration of the God who gave me life and set me apart for Himself. Everyone will bow before Him at some point in the future, I want to bow before Him now. Face down is the only way to enter the glory of the Lord.
Prayer:
Father, help me to be a face-down worshipper. I want to see Your glory desperately, but even if I don’t, I want to live a face-down life of worship. Teach me to worship You how You want to be worshipped. Let me enter into Your glory. I want to know You more and more.
Your Son,
Jeff
“Then the man brought me through the north gateway to the front of the Temple. I looked and saw that the glory of the Lord filled the Temple of the Lord, and I fell face down on the ground.”
Ezekiel 44:4 NLT
Observation:
When Ezekiel encountered the glory of the Lord, his response was to all on his face to the ground. This same response happens in many places in the Bible. When a person sees the awesomeness of God, they will humble themselves before Him and whatever way they know how.
Application:
I want to be a face-down worshipper always. I want to live a life of humble adoration of the God who gave me life and set me apart for Himself. Everyone will bow before Him at some point in the future, I want to bow before Him now. Face down is the only way to enter the glory of the Lord.
Prayer:
Father, help me to be a face-down worshipper. I want to see Your glory desperately, but even if I don’t, I want to live a face-down life of worship. Teach me to worship You how You want to be worshipped. Let me enter into Your glory. I want to know You more and more.
Your Son,
Jeff
Thursday, November 15, 2018
No Shame for God’s People
Scripture:
““In this way, I will make known my holy name among my people of Israel. I will not let anyone bring shame on it. And the nations, too, will know that I am the Lord, the Holy One of Israel.”
Ezekiel 39:7 NLT
Observation:
Ezekiel was prophesying the destruction of the nations who had done Israel wrong. He declares their utter destruction. Then he says, “In this way, I will make known my holy name among my people of Israel. I will not let anyone bring shame on it”. God doesn’t want shame brought on His holy name.
Application:
God defends His people who are called bu His name. He will not allow His name to be shamed anywhere. He will defend those who are His so that His name can be exalted in the nations. We need to walk in confidence that God will take care of us as His people. He will do this for His own reputation. Some things that happen in our lives have nothing to do with us, but with God’s reputation. He won’t allow us to be shamed.
Prayer:
Father, as I read Ezekiel I see how hard You have been in the past against those who walked away from You or who didn’t serve You. You were harsh on those who opppressed Your people. Be my defender today. Fight for my case and allow no shame in my life. Make Yourself look good in and through my life. I want to serve You well.
Your Son,
Jeff
““In this way, I will make known my holy name among my people of Israel. I will not let anyone bring shame on it. And the nations, too, will know that I am the Lord, the Holy One of Israel.”
Ezekiel 39:7 NLT
Observation:
Ezekiel was prophesying the destruction of the nations who had done Israel wrong. He declares their utter destruction. Then he says, “In this way, I will make known my holy name among my people of Israel. I will not let anyone bring shame on it”. God doesn’t want shame brought on His holy name.
Application:
God defends His people who are called bu His name. He will not allow His name to be shamed anywhere. He will defend those who are His so that His name can be exalted in the nations. We need to walk in confidence that God will take care of us as His people. He will do this for His own reputation. Some things that happen in our lives have nothing to do with us, but with God’s reputation. He won’t allow us to be shamed.
Prayer:
Father, as I read Ezekiel I see how hard You have been in the past against those who walked away from You or who didn’t serve You. You were harsh on those who opppressed Your people. Be my defender today. Fight for my case and allow no shame in my life. Make Yourself look good in and through my life. I want to serve You well.
Your Son,
Jeff
Wednesday, November 14, 2018
A New Spirit
Scripture:
“And I will give you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony, stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart. And I will put my Spirit in you so that you will follow my decrees and be careful to obey my regulations.”
Ezekiel 36:26-27 NLT
Observation:
God is speaking here to Israel and Judah, telling them that they will be brought back home and that they would serve Him again in the future. He tells them that He will give them a a new heart and a new spirit. He says He will give them a tender, responsive heart. He closes by saying He will put His Spirit in them so they could follow His decrees.
Application:
We can’t do what God wants us to do without His Spirit. It is His Spirit that causes us to live right. It is His Spirit that enables us to live the way He wants us to. It is His Spirit that helps us in our weaknesses. We need God’s Spirit in our lives to the fullest capacity. I want more of the Spirit of God in my life so I can fulfill all God wants me to do.
Prayer:
Fill me to overflowing Holy Spirit. Let my heart be right with You at all times. Help me to follow all You put into my heart and let me live under Your influence and control. Teach me to hear Your voice and to see what You are doing at all times. Baptize me afresh with Your Spirit. Fill me up God. I want more of You.
Your Son,
Jeff
“And I will give you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony, stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart. And I will put my Spirit in you so that you will follow my decrees and be careful to obey my regulations.”
Ezekiel 36:26-27 NLT
Observation:
God is speaking here to Israel and Judah, telling them that they will be brought back home and that they would serve Him again in the future. He tells them that He will give them a a new heart and a new spirit. He says He will give them a tender, responsive heart. He closes by saying He will put His Spirit in them so they could follow His decrees.
Application:
We can’t do what God wants us to do without His Spirit. It is His Spirit that causes us to live right. It is His Spirit that enables us to live the way He wants us to. It is His Spirit that helps us in our weaknesses. We need God’s Spirit in our lives to the fullest capacity. I want more of the Spirit of God in my life so I can fulfill all God wants me to do.
Prayer:
Fill me to overflowing Holy Spirit. Let my heart be right with You at all times. Help me to follow all You put into my heart and let me live under Your influence and control. Teach me to hear Your voice and to see what You are doing at all times. Baptize me afresh with Your Spirit. Fill me up God. I want more of You.
Your Son,
Jeff
Tuesday, November 13, 2018
God’s Desire for the Wicked
Scripture:
“As surely as I live, says the Sovereign Lord, I take no pleasure in the death of wicked people. I only want them to turn from their wicked ways so they can live. Turn! Turn from your wickedness, O people of Israel! Why should you die?”
Ezekiel 33:11 NLT
Observation:
God tells Ezekiel that He doesn’t take any pleasure in the death of wicked people, but wants them to turn from their ways so they can live. His desire isn’t to punish people, but that they would hear the threat and turn away from their sin so He can bless them.
Application:
We must realize that God doesn’t delight in punishing people. He is a good God and worthy of praise and worship. His desire, even for His enemies, is that they would return to Him and worship Him, then He would bless them. God never rejects us when we run to Him.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to turn when I need to turn. Convict me of things that are drawing me away from You. I want to live in the glory of Your presence. I want to know You more and more intimately. Help me to continually pursue You above all else. Help me to represent You well on the earth.
Your Servant,
Jeff
“As surely as I live, says the Sovereign Lord, I take no pleasure in the death of wicked people. I only want them to turn from their wicked ways so they can live. Turn! Turn from your wickedness, O people of Israel! Why should you die?”
Ezekiel 33:11 NLT
Observation:
God tells Ezekiel that He doesn’t take any pleasure in the death of wicked people, but wants them to turn from their ways so they can live. His desire isn’t to punish people, but that they would hear the threat and turn away from their sin so He can bless them.
Application:
We must realize that God doesn’t delight in punishing people. He is a good God and worthy of praise and worship. His desire, even for His enemies, is that they would return to Him and worship Him, then He would bless them. God never rejects us when we run to Him.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to turn when I need to turn. Convict me of things that are drawing me away from You. I want to live in the glory of Your presence. I want to know You more and more intimately. Help me to continually pursue You above all else. Help me to represent You well on the earth.
Your Servant,
Jeff
Monday, November 12, 2018
When God is Your Enemy
Scripture:
“Yes, I will make many peoples astonished at you, and their kings shall be horribly afraid of you when I brandish My sword before them; and they shall tremble every moment, every man for his own life, in the day of your fall.”
Ezekiel 32:10 NKJV
Observation:
God is speaking to Egypt here and telling them about what He is going to do because of the way they have treated people. He says that many peoples will be astonished at them and people will fear them when God brandishes. His sword before them. He says that every man will tremble for their own lives when they fall.
Application:
God is the GOd of power and great might. We cannot forget that He is a loving God, but He is also a just God. He will bring about justice in the earth. Those who lived terrible lives will pay. Nobody wants to be under the judgment of God, but rather we want peace with God and His blessing. We want our defense attorney, Jesus Christ, working on our behalf. I want to live a life that pleases God in every way.
Prayer:
Lord God Almighty, You are all-powerful and I want to live a life that pleases You and does Your will in the earth. I want to worship You all of my life and live in the land of Your blessing. You are incredible and it is an honor to serve You. Help me to serve You well and to represent You well.
Yours,
Jeff
“Yes, I will make many peoples astonished at you, and their kings shall be horribly afraid of you when I brandish My sword before them; and they shall tremble every moment, every man for his own life, in the day of your fall.”
Ezekiel 32:10 NKJV
Observation:
God is speaking to Egypt here and telling them about what He is going to do because of the way they have treated people. He says that many peoples will be astonished at them and people will fear them when God brandishes. His sword before them. He says that every man will tremble for their own lives when they fall.
Application:
God is the GOd of power and great might. We cannot forget that He is a loving God, but He is also a just God. He will bring about justice in the earth. Those who lived terrible lives will pay. Nobody wants to be under the judgment of God, but rather we want peace with God and His blessing. We want our defense attorney, Jesus Christ, working on our behalf. I want to live a life that pleases God in every way.
Prayer:
Lord God Almighty, You are all-powerful and I want to live a life that pleases You and does Your will in the earth. I want to worship You all of my life and live in the land of Your blessing. You are incredible and it is an honor to serve You. Help me to serve You well and to represent You well.
Yours,
Jeff
Saturday, November 10, 2018
God Fights for his People
Scripture:
““This is what the Sovereign Lord says: The people of Philistia have acted against Judah out of bitter revenge and long-standing contempt. Therefore, this is what the Sovereign Lord says: I will raise my fist of judgment against the land of the Philistines. I will wipe out the Kerethites and utterly destroy the people who live by the sea.”
Ezekiel 25:15-16 NLT
Observation:
Ezekiel gets a word from the Lord about Philistia. He hears the Lord speak about how Philistia acted out of revenge and contempt again Judah. Because of this, the Lord says, “I will raise my fist of judgment” against them. Even when God is judging His own people, He will rise up against those who act against them.
Application:
Vengeance belongs to the Lord. He will take revenge on those who are against His people. He loves us and will protect us. His anger will be stirred up when He sees His people taken advantage of or hurt. He is a loving father. He can discipline His children all He wants, but nobody else better without His permission.
Prayer:
Lord God Almighty, You see everything. You see every time Your people are mistreated. You hear every word spoken against us. You will react against those tho try to tear us down or destroy us. Help me to trust Your love more and more. Help me to never seek revenge on those who hurt me, but to trust that You always look after Your people.
Yours,
Jeff
““This is what the Sovereign Lord says: The people of Philistia have acted against Judah out of bitter revenge and long-standing contempt. Therefore, this is what the Sovereign Lord says: I will raise my fist of judgment against the land of the Philistines. I will wipe out the Kerethites and utterly destroy the people who live by the sea.”
Ezekiel 25:15-16 NLT
Observation:
Ezekiel gets a word from the Lord about Philistia. He hears the Lord speak about how Philistia acted out of revenge and contempt again Judah. Because of this, the Lord says, “I will raise my fist of judgment” against them. Even when God is judging His own people, He will rise up against those who act against them.
Application:
Vengeance belongs to the Lord. He will take revenge on those who are against His people. He loves us and will protect us. His anger will be stirred up when He sees His people taken advantage of or hurt. He is a loving father. He can discipline His children all He wants, but nobody else better without His permission.
Prayer:
Lord God Almighty, You see everything. You see every time Your people are mistreated. You hear every word spoken against us. You will react against those tho try to tear us down or destroy us. Help me to trust Your love more and more. Help me to never seek revenge on those who hurt me, but to trust that You always look after Your people.
Yours,
Jeff
Friday, November 9, 2018
Disregarding Sabbath
Scripture:
“Your priests have violated my instructions and defiled my holy things. They make no distinction between what is holy and what is not. And they do not teach my people the difference between what is ceremonially clean and unclean. They disregard my Sabbath days so that I am dishonored among them.”
Ezekiel 22:26 NLT
Observation:
God is speaking through Ezekiel about his priests, who He says defiled His holy things by not teaching the difference between what is holy and what is not. He goes on to say that these priests disregard God’s Sabbath days, which dishonors God.
Application:
When I dishonor the Sabbath, I am dishonoring God. Sabbath is something He instituted and told His people to honor. When we don’t honor Sabbath, we are not honoring God. God worked six days, then rested. He wants His people to do the same. I need to work on this area of life and trust God to get everything done that needs done during the six days.
Prayer:
Father, forgive me for dishonoring Sabbath. Help me to implement this into my life and bring honor to You through it. Show me the way forward in this in my day and age. Help me to honor You in every way. I want my life to bring You honor.
Yours,
Jeff
“Your priests have violated my instructions and defiled my holy things. They make no distinction between what is holy and what is not. And they do not teach my people the difference between what is ceremonially clean and unclean. They disregard my Sabbath days so that I am dishonored among them.”
Ezekiel 22:26 NLT
Observation:
God is speaking through Ezekiel about his priests, who He says defiled His holy things by not teaching the difference between what is holy and what is not. He goes on to say that these priests disregard God’s Sabbath days, which dishonors God.
Application:
When I dishonor the Sabbath, I am dishonoring God. Sabbath is something He instituted and told His people to honor. When we don’t honor Sabbath, we are not honoring God. God worked six days, then rested. He wants His people to do the same. I need to work on this area of life and trust God to get everything done that needs done during the six days.
Prayer:
Father, forgive me for dishonoring Sabbath. Help me to implement this into my life and bring honor to You through it. Show me the way forward in this in my day and age. Help me to honor You in every way. I want my life to bring You honor.
Yours,
Jeff
Thursday, November 8, 2018
Personal Responsibility
Scripture:
Ezekiel 18:20 The person who sins us the one who will die. The child will not be punished for the parent's sins, and the parent will not be punished for the child's sins. Righteous people will be rewarded for their own righteous behavior, and wicked people will be punished for their own wickedness."
Observation:
Ezekiel was told to give this message to the people of Israel. It basically says that each person will take personal responsibility for their relationship with the Lord and how they live their lives. The parents won't pay for the sins of their children and the children won't pay for the sins of their parents.
Application:
When you raise a child to serve God, and they walk away, they are responsible for their choices, not the parents. Each individual will stand before God for how they live their lives. We are not responsible for others except for the fact that we need to tell them. What they do with our words, they will be accountable for.
Prayer:
Father, help me to trust you with my son who is away from you. Help me to realize that I have done my job and that he is in Your hands. Turn his heart to You Lord. Draw him to Yourself. Help me not to feel guilt or condemnation because of his choices. Teach me to walk in freedom from this and to be confident that I have done my best to show and teach him truth.
Yours,
Jeff
Ezekiel 18:20 The person who sins us the one who will die. The child will not be punished for the parent's sins, and the parent will not be punished for the child's sins. Righteous people will be rewarded for their own righteous behavior, and wicked people will be punished for their own wickedness."
Observation:
Ezekiel was told to give this message to the people of Israel. It basically says that each person will take personal responsibility for their relationship with the Lord and how they live their lives. The parents won't pay for the sins of their children and the children won't pay for the sins of their parents.
Application:
When you raise a child to serve God, and they walk away, they are responsible for their choices, not the parents. Each individual will stand before God for how they live their lives. We are not responsible for others except for the fact that we need to tell them. What they do with our words, they will be accountable for.
Prayer:
Father, help me to trust you with my son who is away from you. Help me to realize that I have done my job and that he is in Your hands. Turn his heart to You Lord. Draw him to Yourself. Help me not to feel guilt or condemnation because of his choices. Teach me to walk in freedom from this and to be confident that I have done my best to show and teach him truth.
Yours,
Jeff
Wednesday, November 7, 2018
Give God the Glory
Scripture:
Ezekiel 16:14-15 "Your fame soon spread throughout the world because of your beauty. I dressed you in my splendor and perfected your beauty, says the Sovereign Lord. But you thought your fame and beauty were your own. So you gave yourself as a prostitute to every man who came along. Your beauty was theirs for the asking."
Observation:
God was speaking of Israel to Ezekiel and says how He made her beautiful and dressed her in perfect beauty. He said that her fame spread everywhere, but that she thought her beauty was her own. Therefore she prostituted herself instead of remaining with the one who made her beautiful.
Application:
When God gives gifts and talents, they are not our own. They belong to Him and are for His purposes. When God gives us fame and blessing, it is not ours, but His. We cannot take credit that doesn't belong to us. When the day of God's blessing comes, I must give all glory to the Lord because He is the giver of every good and perfect gift.
Prayer:
Father, never let me think I can do things on my own. I want Your name to be glorified in and through my life. Help me to lift up Your name and make Your name famous in all the earth. Teach me to walk humbly before You all the days of my life. I want to finish well.
Yours,
Jeff
Ezekiel 16:14-15 "Your fame soon spread throughout the world because of your beauty. I dressed you in my splendor and perfected your beauty, says the Sovereign Lord. But you thought your fame and beauty were your own. So you gave yourself as a prostitute to every man who came along. Your beauty was theirs for the asking."
Observation:
God was speaking of Israel to Ezekiel and says how He made her beautiful and dressed her in perfect beauty. He said that her fame spread everywhere, but that she thought her beauty was her own. Therefore she prostituted herself instead of remaining with the one who made her beautiful.
Application:
When God gives gifts and talents, they are not our own. They belong to Him and are for His purposes. When God gives us fame and blessing, it is not ours, but His. We cannot take credit that doesn't belong to us. When the day of God's blessing comes, I must give all glory to the Lord because He is the giver of every good and perfect gift.
Prayer:
Father, never let me think I can do things on my own. I want Your name to be glorified in and through my life. Help me to lift up Your name and make Your name famous in all the earth. Teach me to walk humbly before You all the days of my life. I want to finish well.
Yours,
Jeff
Tuesday, November 6, 2018
Like Birds From a Cage
Scripture:
Ezekiel 13:20 "This is what the Sovereign Lord says: I am against all your magic charms, which you use to ensnare my people like birds. I will tear them from your arms, setting my people free like birds set free from a cage."
Observation:
The Lord speaks here through Ezekiel about people being in bondage because of lying prophets and prophets who were not speaking the true word of the Lord. The Lord had had enough and He said He was coming to set His people free like birds from a cage. When God's people are in bondage, whether to sin or slavery, or false prophets, He always gets to a place where He determines He will come down and set them free.
Application:
God is a deliverer! He loves to deliver His people from wrong teaching, wrong living and wrong worship. When God sees His people wanting to worship Him, but being led astray, He will come down and deliver them. He will set them free like birds from a cage. We need to be more like the Lord who came to set the captives free. Deliverance is always in God's heart and should always be in my heart.
Prayer:
Father, when things are not right and your people are in bondage, let me be used to deliver them. Help me to walk with You and know Your thoughts and desires. I want to bring deliverance to those in bondage. I want to see people set free like birds from a cage. Let my life bring deliverance to many.
Your Son,
Jeff
Ezekiel 13:20 "This is what the Sovereign Lord says: I am against all your magic charms, which you use to ensnare my people like birds. I will tear them from your arms, setting my people free like birds set free from a cage."
Observation:
The Lord speaks here through Ezekiel about people being in bondage because of lying prophets and prophets who were not speaking the true word of the Lord. The Lord had had enough and He said He was coming to set His people free like birds from a cage. When God's people are in bondage, whether to sin or slavery, or false prophets, He always gets to a place where He determines He will come down and set them free.
Application:
God is a deliverer! He loves to deliver His people from wrong teaching, wrong living and wrong worship. When God sees His people wanting to worship Him, but being led astray, He will come down and deliver them. He will set them free like birds from a cage. We need to be more like the Lord who came to set the captives free. Deliverance is always in God's heart and should always be in my heart.
Prayer:
Father, when things are not right and your people are in bondage, let me be used to deliver them. Help me to walk with You and know Your thoughts and desires. I want to bring deliverance to those in bondage. I want to see people set free like birds from a cage. Let my life bring deliverance to many.
Your Son,
Jeff
Monday, November 5, 2018
Marked by Weeping
Scripture:
“Then I heard the Lord say to the other men, “Follow him through the city and kill everyone whose forehead is not marked. Show no mercy; have no pity! Kill them all—old and young, girls and women and little children. But do not touch anyone with the mark. Begin right here at the Temple.” So they began by killing the seventy leaders.”
Ezekiel 9:5-6 NLT
Observation:
God was letting Ezekiel know that He was about to destroy the people of Israel because they had forgotten Him and were committing atrocious sins. They no longer even had a desire to please God and He was going to punish them for it. As He is about to punish them, He sent an angel through the city to mark the foreheads of those weeping for the sin of their nation. When they mark was seen, the person was to be spared.
Application:
God marks those who weep for the sins of their people. He will not allow injustice. He is a just God! When we are broken for the condition of our nation and crying out to Him, He will not allow His judgment to come on our lives. When we are standing in the gap for those around us and crying out to God for them, we will not be punished with them. We are marked when we are doing what God wants.
Prayer:
Father, thank You for reminding me this morning that Your mercy is grace is there for those who are broken over the sins of their people. Thank You for being a just God and not punishing those who are working on Your behalf. Your justice is awesome and I love You. Help me to remain in close relationship with You and to live a life of purity of heart and passion for God and the things of God.
Your Son,
Jeff
“Then I heard the Lord say to the other men, “Follow him through the city and kill everyone whose forehead is not marked. Show no mercy; have no pity! Kill them all—old and young, girls and women and little children. But do not touch anyone with the mark. Begin right here at the Temple.” So they began by killing the seventy leaders.”
Ezekiel 9:5-6 NLT
Observation:
God was letting Ezekiel know that He was about to destroy the people of Israel because they had forgotten Him and were committing atrocious sins. They no longer even had a desire to please God and He was going to punish them for it. As He is about to punish them, He sent an angel through the city to mark the foreheads of those weeping for the sin of their nation. When they mark was seen, the person was to be spared.
Application:
God marks those who weep for the sins of their people. He will not allow injustice. He is a just God! When we are broken for the condition of our nation and crying out to Him, He will not allow His judgment to come on our lives. When we are standing in the gap for those around us and crying out to God for them, we will not be punished with them. We are marked when we are doing what God wants.
Prayer:
Father, thank You for reminding me this morning that Your mercy is grace is there for those who are broken over the sins of their people. Thank You for being a just God and not punishing those who are working on Your behalf. Your justice is awesome and I love You. Help me to remain in close relationship with You and to live a life of purity of heart and passion for God and the things of God.
Your Son,
Jeff
Saturday, October 27, 2018
In Christ, A Slave Becomes a Brother
Scripture:
“He is no longer like a slave to you. He is more than a slave, for he is a beloved brother, especially to me. Now he will mean much more to you, both as a man and as a brother in the Lord.”
Philemon 1:16 NLT
Observation:
Paul writes from prison to Philemon telling him to welcome Onesimus back home. Onesimus was Philemon’s slave who had run away. In his running, he ran into Paul and gave his life to Christ. Now Paul is sending him home and asking his owner to treat him like a brother instead of a slave. He let’s Philemon know that Onesimus is a brother and should be treated that way.
Application:
Christ removes all of our past labels when we come to him. In Christ, people move from slavery to Sonship. In Christ, people are transfomed from valueless to valuable. In Christ, we can’t see people how the world sees them. We must see people, and treat people, as sons and daughters of God instead of as useless and valueless. In Christ, the slave is equal to his owner.
Prayer:
Lord God, help me to see people the way You see people. Help me not to judge people based on their income level or job status. Help me to see people through Your eyes. Whatever potential You see, let me see as well. Help me not to be judgmental in any way but to walk in love and respect people who are coming to You.
Your Son,
Jeff
“He is no longer like a slave to you. He is more than a slave, for he is a beloved brother, especially to me. Now he will mean much more to you, both as a man and as a brother in the Lord.”
Philemon 1:16 NLT
Observation:
Paul writes from prison to Philemon telling him to welcome Onesimus back home. Onesimus was Philemon’s slave who had run away. In his running, he ran into Paul and gave his life to Christ. Now Paul is sending him home and asking his owner to treat him like a brother instead of a slave. He let’s Philemon know that Onesimus is a brother and should be treated that way.
Application:
Christ removes all of our past labels when we come to him. In Christ, people move from slavery to Sonship. In Christ, people are transfomed from valueless to valuable. In Christ, we can’t see people how the world sees them. We must see people, and treat people, as sons and daughters of God instead of as useless and valueless. In Christ, the slave is equal to his owner.
Prayer:
Lord God, help me to see people the way You see people. Help me not to judge people based on their income level or job status. Help me to see people through Your eyes. Whatever potential You see, let me see as well. Help me not to be judgmental in any way but to walk in love and respect people who are coming to You.
Your Son,
Jeff
Friday, October 26, 2018
When God Arises to Fight
Scripture:
“But the one who redeems them is strong. His name is the Lord of Heaven’s Armies. He will defend them and give them rest again in Israel. But for the people of Babylon there will be no rest!”
Jeremiah 50:34 NLT
Observation:
Jeremiah had prophesied concerning Babylon that she would overthrowJudah and Jerusalem because of the sins of God’s people. Here he speaks about Babylon’s future. Even though He was going to use them against His people, they would be judged for it in the future. It says above that God will defend Israel, restore them to their land, and give Babylon no rest.
Application:
God may allow some things into our lives for a season, but there comes a time where He will say enough is enough and will arise to fight on behalf of His people. God may allow the enemy to touch us for a season, but He will arise and defend His people. He will bring utter devastation on His enemies and the enemies of His people. He is strong and vengeance belongs to Him!
Prayer:
Lord, you know every detail of my life. You know my ups and downs. You know my good days and my bad days, yet You love me completely and will defend my case. You are the God who brings vengeance on the enemies of His people. Rise up and bring great victory in my life. Rise up and fight on my behalf. I entrust You with all vengeance and setting all records straight.
Your Son,
Jeff
“But the one who redeems them is strong. His name is the Lord of Heaven’s Armies. He will defend them and give them rest again in Israel. But for the people of Babylon there will be no rest!”
Jeremiah 50:34 NLT
Observation:
Jeremiah had prophesied concerning Babylon that she would overthrowJudah and Jerusalem because of the sins of God’s people. Here he speaks about Babylon’s future. Even though He was going to use them against His people, they would be judged for it in the future. It says above that God will defend Israel, restore them to their land, and give Babylon no rest.
Application:
God may allow some things into our lives for a season, but there comes a time where He will say enough is enough and will arise to fight on behalf of His people. God may allow the enemy to touch us for a season, but He will arise and defend His people. He will bring utter devastation on His enemies and the enemies of His people. He is strong and vengeance belongs to Him!
Prayer:
Lord, you know every detail of my life. You know my ups and downs. You know my good days and my bad days, yet You love me completely and will defend my case. You are the God who brings vengeance on the enemies of His people. Rise up and bring great victory in my life. Rise up and fight on my behalf. I entrust You with all vengeance and setting all records straight.
Your Son,
Jeff
Thursday, October 25, 2018
God’s Love For His People
Scripture:
“In the days to come,” says the Lord, “I will sound the battle cry against your city of Rabbah. It will become a desolate heap of ruins, and the neighboring towns will be burned. Then Israel will take back the land you took from her,” says the Lord.”
Jeremiah 49:2 NLT
Observation:
Jeremiah speaks here concerning Ammon and specifically the city of Rabbah. He has already said that He would judge Israel and Judah for following after other gods. He was using the surrounding nations like Ammon to wipe out His own people because of their rebellion. Even in His judgement of His people, God speaks about His plan to have Israel take back their land and towns. Even in judgment, God says, Israel will return and seek Me and when they do, they will be powerful.
Application:
Even in God’s judgement, He is setting up a come back. God loves His people and always has a plan to restore them, heal them, and raise them up as a testimony to His goodness. In our lives, even when we have some setbacks, God is working, setting us up to fulfill His plan for our lives, which is always good and best. He is faithful to us, even when we have been unfaithful to Him.
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for Your faithfulness to me. You are amazing! I am amazed by You. Even in judgment, You are working a plan for Your people to return and be raised up as a testimony. Even when things are really bad and we have done wrong, you are letting us know that things will turn around. Thanks for being faithful to Your covenant.
Yours,
Jeff
“In the days to come,” says the Lord, “I will sound the battle cry against your city of Rabbah. It will become a desolate heap of ruins, and the neighboring towns will be burned. Then Israel will take back the land you took from her,” says the Lord.”
Jeremiah 49:2 NLT
Observation:
Jeremiah speaks here concerning Ammon and specifically the city of Rabbah. He has already said that He would judge Israel and Judah for following after other gods. He was using the surrounding nations like Ammon to wipe out His own people because of their rebellion. Even in His judgement of His people, God speaks about His plan to have Israel take back their land and towns. Even in judgment, God says, Israel will return and seek Me and when they do, they will be powerful.
Application:
Even in God’s judgement, He is setting up a come back. God loves His people and always has a plan to restore them, heal them, and raise them up as a testimony to His goodness. In our lives, even when we have some setbacks, God is working, setting us up to fulfill His plan for our lives, which is always good and best. He is faithful to us, even when we have been unfaithful to Him.
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for Your faithfulness to me. You are amazing! I am amazed by You. Even in judgment, You are working a plan for Your people to return and be raised up as a testimony. Even when things are really bad and we have done wrong, you are letting us know that things will turn around. Thanks for being faithful to Your covenant.
Yours,
Jeff
Tuesday, October 23, 2018
The Lies We Tell
Scripture:
“Jeremiah the prophet. They said, “Please pray to the Lord your God for us. As you can see, we are only a tiny remnant compared to what we were before. Pray that the Lord your God will show us what to do and where to go.””
Jeremiah 42:2-3 NLT
Observation:
These people were in Jerusalem after most of the country had been deported. They came to Jeremiah and told him to pray to the Lord and He would show them what to do and where to go. Jeremiah prayed and told them exactly what the Lord said, “Stay here and I will bless and protect you. God to Egypt and you will die.” The people didn’t end up doing what the Lord said, but what they thought was best.
Application:
So often I pray similar prayers, Lord if You just show me what to do, I will do it. I am guilty of doing the exact same thing because what I feel the Lord saying doesn’t match what I think will work out. There is also the fact that the voice of the Lord can be very difficult to discern. I want to do what the Lord wants, but I need to hear clearly.
Prayer:
Lord, let me not be like the crew here who prayed and heard, but because it didn’t make sense to them, refused to do what You said. Teach me to hear Your voice and then give me the strength to respond quickly and passionately. Help me to lead Your people well and let my life be a demonstration of a life that fully followed the Lord.
Yours,
Jeff
“Jeremiah the prophet. They said, “Please pray to the Lord your God for us. As you can see, we are only a tiny remnant compared to what we were before. Pray that the Lord your God will show us what to do and where to go.””
Jeremiah 42:2-3 NLT
Observation:
These people were in Jerusalem after most of the country had been deported. They came to Jeremiah and told him to pray to the Lord and He would show them what to do and where to go. Jeremiah prayed and told them exactly what the Lord said, “Stay here and I will bless and protect you. God to Egypt and you will die.” The people didn’t end up doing what the Lord said, but what they thought was best.
Application:
So often I pray similar prayers, Lord if You just show me what to do, I will do it. I am guilty of doing the exact same thing because what I feel the Lord saying doesn’t match what I think will work out. There is also the fact that the voice of the Lord can be very difficult to discern. I want to do what the Lord wants, but I need to hear clearly.
Prayer:
Lord, let me not be like the crew here who prayed and heard, but because it didn’t make sense to them, refused to do what You said. Teach me to hear Your voice and then give me the strength to respond quickly and passionately. Help me to lead Your people well and let my life be a demonstration of a life that fully followed the Lord.
Yours,
Jeff
Monday, October 22, 2018
The Blessings of Obedience
Scripture:
“But I am going to take off your chains and let you go. If you want to come with me to Babylon, you are welcome. I will see that you are well cared for. But if you don’t want to come, you may stay here. The whole land is before you—go wherever you like.”
Jeremiah 40:4 NLT
Observation:
Jeremiah had been obedient to the Lord in all things. He had wholeheartedly followed the Lord. He never misrepresented the Lord and His word. He told the truth, even when it landed him in prison, cisterns, and near death. In the end, the enemy of his country honored him and said he could live wherever he wanted and made sure he was taken care of.
Application:
When you are faithful to God in the good time and in the bad times, He will eventually raise you up and cause your to be blessed for your obedience. God sees every time we are mistreated or ill-spoken of. He sees faithfulness and always honors it. Faithfulness isn’t seen in the easy times, but in the hard times. Just as Jeremiah, I need to speak the word of the Lord, whether people like it or not. I need to honor the Lord over everyone else, then I can expect His blessings in the long run.
Prayer:
Father, I want to be faithful to You and represent You well. I want to accurately speak on Your behalf as Jeremiah did. He was faithful to speak Your words, even when Your words got him in serious trouble. It would have been easier to say nothing, but he always declared Your word. Help me to live more like him and be concerned less with what people think.
Yours,
Jeff
“But I am going to take off your chains and let you go. If you want to come with me to Babylon, you are welcome. I will see that you are well cared for. But if you don’t want to come, you may stay here. The whole land is before you—go wherever you like.”
Jeremiah 40:4 NLT
Observation:
Jeremiah had been obedient to the Lord in all things. He had wholeheartedly followed the Lord. He never misrepresented the Lord and His word. He told the truth, even when it landed him in prison, cisterns, and near death. In the end, the enemy of his country honored him and said he could live wherever he wanted and made sure he was taken care of.
Application:
When you are faithful to God in the good time and in the bad times, He will eventually raise you up and cause your to be blessed for your obedience. God sees every time we are mistreated or ill-spoken of. He sees faithfulness and always honors it. Faithfulness isn’t seen in the easy times, but in the hard times. Just as Jeremiah, I need to speak the word of the Lord, whether people like it or not. I need to honor the Lord over everyone else, then I can expect His blessings in the long run.
Prayer:
Father, I want to be faithful to You and represent You well. I want to accurately speak on Your behalf as Jeremiah did. He was faithful to speak Your words, even when Your words got him in serious trouble. It would have been easier to say nothing, but he always declared Your word. Help me to live more like him and be concerned less with what people think.
Yours,
Jeff
Saturday, October 20, 2018
One Heart and Passion
Scripture:
“And I will give them one heart and one purpose: to worship me forever, for their own good and for the good of all their descendants.”
Jeremiah 32:39 NLT
Observation:
Jeremiah declares the word of the Lord to the people of Judah and Jerusalem. He tells them that they are going into Babylonian captivity, but that the day would come when they would come back to their land and worship God with one heart and one purpose. He goes on to say this is for their own good and for the good fo their descendants.
Application:
My worship affects my generations. My worship affects my personal life, but it also affects those around me. Worship is all about God, but it is also for our benefit. When we worship, we are honoring God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength. In return, He lifts us up and brings blessings into our lives and the lives of our descendants. May we, as God’s children, worship Him with all we have in unity of purpose and heart.
Prayer:
Father, let my worship come to a new level. Let my worship affect those around me. Let my walk with You cause others to long for You. Help me to give myself back to worship again. Lately my worship level has not been as good as the past. I want to always be a worshipper. Help me to prioritize my life to get more accomplished in less time so I create more time to worship You.
Your Son,
Jeff
“And I will give them one heart and one purpose: to worship me forever, for their own good and for the good of all their descendants.”
Jeremiah 32:39 NLT
Observation:
Jeremiah declares the word of the Lord to the people of Judah and Jerusalem. He tells them that they are going into Babylonian captivity, but that the day would come when they would come back to their land and worship God with one heart and one purpose. He goes on to say this is for their own good and for the good fo their descendants.
Application:
My worship affects my generations. My worship affects my personal life, but it also affects those around me. Worship is all about God, but it is also for our benefit. When we worship, we are honoring God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength. In return, He lifts us up and brings blessings into our lives and the lives of our descendants. May we, as God’s children, worship Him with all we have in unity of purpose and heart.
Prayer:
Father, let my worship come to a new level. Let my worship affect those around me. Let my walk with You cause others to long for You. Help me to give myself back to worship again. Lately my worship level has not been as good as the past. I want to always be a worshipper. Help me to prioritize my life to get more accomplished in less time so I create more time to worship You.
Your Son,
Jeff
Friday, October 19, 2018
Seeking God Wholeheartedly
Scripture:
Prayer“If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me. I will be found by you,” says the Lord. “I will end your captivity and restore your fortunes. I will gather you out of the nations where I sent you and will bring you home again to your own land.””
Jeremiah 29:13-14 NLT
Observation:
Jeremiah gives the people a word from the Lord. He has been telling them that they were going to be overtaken by Babylon and here tells them that when they are in exile they need to seek the Lord wholeheartedly. He tells them that, even though the Lord is punishing you, He will also bring you back and restore you if you will seek Him wholeheartedly.
Application:
No matter what we have done, it not done, when God’s people turn toward Him with all their heart, soul, mind and strength, He will turn things around for them. As a follower of Christ, my job is to remain in constant pursuit of Him. My job is to seek Him. When I do that, He will restore His blessings in my life. He is faithful, yet we must remain faithful to Him if we want to walk in His blessing.
Prayer:
Lord, strengthen my life. Help me to be a seeker of You and Your will for my life. Let me never stop seeking You. Give me to desire to know You more and more.
Yours,
Jeff
Prayer“If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me. I will be found by you,” says the Lord. “I will end your captivity and restore your fortunes. I will gather you out of the nations where I sent you and will bring you home again to your own land.””
Jeremiah 29:13-14 NLT
Observation:
Jeremiah gives the people a word from the Lord. He has been telling them that they were going to be overtaken by Babylon and here tells them that when they are in exile they need to seek the Lord wholeheartedly. He tells them that, even though the Lord is punishing you, He will also bring you back and restore you if you will seek Him wholeheartedly.
Application:
No matter what we have done, it not done, when God’s people turn toward Him with all their heart, soul, mind and strength, He will turn things around for them. As a follower of Christ, my job is to remain in constant pursuit of Him. My job is to seek Him. When I do that, He will restore His blessings in my life. He is faithful, yet we must remain faithful to Him if we want to walk in His blessing.
Prayer:
Lord, strengthen my life. Help me to be a seeker of You and Your will for my life. Let me never stop seeking You. Give me to desire to know You more and more.
Yours,
Jeff
Thursday, October 18, 2018
God Can Use Anyone He Wants
Scripture:
“Now I will give your countries to King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon, who is my servant. I have put everything, even the wild animals, under his control.”
Jeremiah 27:6 NLT
Observation:
Jeremiah speaks to all the nations around Babylon and tells them that Nebuchadnezzar is His servant and that they will be given into his hands. God said that He put everything in Nebuchandnezzar’s control. God used a pagan king to bring about His will. He can use whoever He wants to bring about His will in the earth.
Application:
Just because God uses a person to accomplish His will, it does not mean that He approves of everything that person does. God can use anyone He wants to bring about His purposes. He will use people who have wrong theology, are not good people, etc. Therefore, because God uses someone, it does not mean that everything they say is correct and that God approves of their lifestyle, etc. God’s anointing does not equal God’s approval. Our goal is not for God to use us, but for our walk with God to be sure and strong. The relationship is more important than being used by Him.
Prayer:
Father, You can use a donkey or a pagan king to bring about Your will in the earth. You are all-powerful and Your ways are above my ways. Your thoughts are above my thoughts. You are amazing! Help me to walk close with You. I don’t want to be the one You use, but don’t approve of. I want to be a vessel of gold in Your hands.
Yours Forever,
Jeff
“Now I will give your countries to King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon, who is my servant. I have put everything, even the wild animals, under his control.”
Jeremiah 27:6 NLT
Observation:
Jeremiah speaks to all the nations around Babylon and tells them that Nebuchadnezzar is His servant and that they will be given into his hands. God said that He put everything in Nebuchandnezzar’s control. God used a pagan king to bring about His will. He can use whoever He wants to bring about His will in the earth.
Application:
Just because God uses a person to accomplish His will, it does not mean that He approves of everything that person does. God can use anyone He wants to bring about His purposes. He will use people who have wrong theology, are not good people, etc. Therefore, because God uses someone, it does not mean that everything they say is correct and that God approves of their lifestyle, etc. God’s anointing does not equal God’s approval. Our goal is not for God to use us, but for our walk with God to be sure and strong. The relationship is more important than being used by Him.
Prayer:
Father, You can use a donkey or a pagan king to bring about Your will in the earth. You are all-powerful and Your ways are above my ways. Your thoughts are above my thoughts. You are amazing! Help me to walk close with You. I don’t want to be the one You use, but don’t approve of. I want to be a vessel of gold in Your hands.
Yours Forever,
Jeff
Wednesday, October 17, 2018
Speaking Prophetically
Scripture:
““I have not sent these prophets, yet they run around claiming to speak for me. I have given them no message, yet they go on prophesying.”
Jeremiah 23:21 NLT
Observation:
God is speaking here through Jeremiah about His feelings concerning all of the prophets who were telling Judah and Jerusalem that everything was good and that God was going to bless them. He says that He didn’t send these prophets and He didn’t give them a message, but they go on prophesying. It angered God that prophets were putting words in His mouth that He didn’t say.
Application:
I need to be very cautious about prophetic words. God takes very seriously those who say they are speaking for Him, but haven’t heard from Him. I want my ears to be opened so I can accurately speak the Word of the Lord to His people. I want to accurately speak what God is speaking and I know that only comes through times of deep prayer. I need to spend more time in prayer and the presence of the Lord.
Prayer:
Father, let me accurately represent You to Your people. Help me not to speak out of my own emotions or feelings, but to speak the true words of the Lord. I want to hear Your voice and deliver what You give me. Help me to walk with You closer each day. I want to know You more.
Your Son,
Jeff
Tuesday, October 16, 2018
Justice
Scripture:
“This is what the Lord says to the dynasty of David: “‘Give justice each morning to the people you judge! Help those who have been robbed; rescue them from their oppressors. Otherwise, my anger will burn like an unquenchable fire because of all your sins.”
Jeremiah 21:12 NLT
Observation:
God was telling Jeremiah all the terrible things He had in store for Jush and Jerusalem. In tho process of this, He tells them to start giving justice each morning. He tells them to help those who have been robbed from their oppressors. God is a just God who wants justice for all people. He hates to see people suffer wrongfully.
Application:
I don’t think very often about the justice of God. I would say with my mouth that He is a just God, but I haven’t been good at defending the case of the oppressed and making sure people are treated fairly. I have been reading much in my masters program about God’s justice and am realizing just how important this is to Him. I need to be more involved in justice missions, which touch the heart of who God is.
Prayer:
Father, show me how to get involved in bringing justice to those who are oppressed. Jesus, I understand that You came to set free those who were captive and preach the Gospel to the poor. Show me areas I can get involved in that reflect Your will and give me the strength to do something about it.
Your Son,
Jeff
“This is what the Lord says to the dynasty of David: “‘Give justice each morning to the people you judge! Help those who have been robbed; rescue them from their oppressors. Otherwise, my anger will burn like an unquenchable fire because of all your sins.”
Jeremiah 21:12 NLT
Observation:
God was telling Jeremiah all the terrible things He had in store for Jush and Jerusalem. In tho process of this, He tells them to start giving justice each morning. He tells them to help those who have been robbed from their oppressors. God is a just God who wants justice for all people. He hates to see people suffer wrongfully.
Application:
I don’t think very often about the justice of God. I would say with my mouth that He is a just God, but I haven’t been good at defending the case of the oppressed and making sure people are treated fairly. I have been reading much in my masters program about God’s justice and am realizing just how important this is to Him. I need to be more involved in justice missions, which touch the heart of who God is.
Prayer:
Father, show me how to get involved in bringing justice to those who are oppressed. Jesus, I understand that You came to set free those who were captive and preach the Gospel to the poor. Show me areas I can get involved in that reflect Your will and give me the strength to do something about it.
Your Son,
Jeff
Monday, October 15, 2018
Loving God’s Word
Scripture:
“When I discovered your words, I devoured them. They are my joy and my heart’s delight, for I bear your name, O Lord God of Heaven’s Armies.”
Jeremiah 15:16 NLT
Observation:
Jeremiah says here that when he found God’s words, he devoured them and they brought joy and were his heart’s delight. His hunger for God’s word was strong and was his source of life. He ate them like a person who had been without food for a while. He includes here that he bears the Lord’s name.
Application:
If we bear the Lord’s name, maybe we should know and love His words. When we bear someone’s name, we should know what they represent. When we bear the name of someone or something, we should know who they are and what they represent. God’s word tells us who He is and what He represents. If we are going to bear His name, we should read His book so we can accurately represent Him.
Prayer:
Lord, let me love Your words like Jeremiah. Later he says they were a fire shut up in his bones. Let Your word come alive to me. Let me hunger for it like Jeremiah did. Let me accurately represent You to the world and let me know You more and more through Your word and through Your Spirit. I want to know who I represent as Your ambassador.
Yours,
Jeff
Saturday, October 13, 2018
The All-Powerful God
Scripture:
“But the Lord is the only true God. He is the living God and the everlasting King! The whole earth trembles at his anger. The nations cannot stand up to his wrath.”
Jeremiah 10:10 NLT
Observation;
Jeremiah is letting Judah and Jerusalem know that the gods made by hands are worthless because they are made by humans. It is only the God of heaven who created the heavens and the earth that has any power. He tells us that the whole earth trembles at the power of God and that no nations can standup against his wrath.
Application:
In the New Testament we are told that God is love and we have stood upon that strongly as how we define God. He is love and He desperately loves His people, but He is also a just God and will not stand for His people walking in sin, especially the sin of idolatry. We must realize that God is all-powerful and that He expects His people to be committed to Him and His will. We need to check our lives to make sure we haven’t made idols of anything and that He is the center of our lives at all times.
Prayer:
Lord, you are all-powerful! There is no other God like You. You are above all and I surrender my life before You. I want to fulfill Your plans and purposes for my life. I want to extend Your Kingdom in all the earth. Thank You for letting me represent You in India last week. Thank You for touching lives and working through our team. Let me live a life that pleases You in every way.
Yours,
Jeff
“But the Lord is the only true God. He is the living God and the everlasting King! The whole earth trembles at his anger. The nations cannot stand up to his wrath.”
Jeremiah 10:10 NLT
Observation;
Jeremiah is letting Judah and Jerusalem know that the gods made by hands are worthless because they are made by humans. It is only the God of heaven who created the heavens and the earth that has any power. He tells us that the whole earth trembles at the power of God and that no nations can standup against his wrath.
Application:
In the New Testament we are told that God is love and we have stood upon that strongly as how we define God. He is love and He desperately loves His people, but He is also a just God and will not stand for His people walking in sin, especially the sin of idolatry. We must realize that God is all-powerful and that He expects His people to be committed to Him and His will. We need to check our lives to make sure we haven’t made idols of anything and that He is the center of our lives at all times.
Prayer:
Lord, you are all-powerful! There is no other God like You. You are above all and I surrender my life before You. I want to fulfill Your plans and purposes for my life. I want to extend Your Kingdom in all the earth. Thank You for letting me represent You in India last week. Thank You for touching lives and working through our team. Let me live a life that pleases You in every way.
Yours,
Jeff
Friday, October 12, 2018
Superficial Treatments
Scripture:
“They offer superficial treatments for my people’s mortal wound. They give assurances of peace when there is no peace.”
Jeremiah 8:11 NLT
Observation:
Jeremiah is speaking a word from the Lord concerning Judah and her rebellion against Him. He calls the prophets and priests frauds who give superficial treatments to mortal wounds. This is powerful language to describe how God feels when His word is not communicated correctly to His people. He was very angry at the prophets and priests in this passage.
Application:
I need to make sure I am accurately representing the God I serve wherever He gives me the opportunity to preach or minister in Him name. I don’t want to give a message the people like, but not help them see the truth of their situations. I don’t want to give assurances of peace when there is no peace. God took this very seriously in the Old Testament and we need to see His heart concerning giving people truth instead of what they want to hear.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to accurately represent You wherever I declare Your word and Your truth. Help me not to give out what people want to hear, but what You want to communicate. Let me hear Your voice above all other voices and let me declare Your word in power and grace. Teach me to represent You well. I want to follow You completely.
Your Son,
Jeff
“They offer superficial treatments for my people’s mortal wound. They give assurances of peace when there is no peace.”
Jeremiah 8:11 NLT
Observation:
Jeremiah is speaking a word from the Lord concerning Judah and her rebellion against Him. He calls the prophets and priests frauds who give superficial treatments to mortal wounds. This is powerful language to describe how God feels when His word is not communicated correctly to His people. He was very angry at the prophets and priests in this passage.
Application:
I need to make sure I am accurately representing the God I serve wherever He gives me the opportunity to preach or minister in Him name. I don’t want to give a message the people like, but not help them see the truth of their situations. I don’t want to give assurances of peace when there is no peace. God took this very seriously in the Old Testament and we need to see His heart concerning giving people truth instead of what they want to hear.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to accurately represent You wherever I declare Your word and Your truth. Help me not to give out what people want to hear, but what You want to communicate. Let me hear Your voice above all other voices and let me declare Your word in power and grace. Teach me to represent You well. I want to follow You completely.
Your Son,
Jeff
Thursday, October 11, 2018
Surrender Pride and Power
Scripture:
“O people of Judah and Jerusalem, surrender your pride and power. Change your hearts before the Lord, or my anger will burn like an unquenchable fire because of all your sins.”
Jeremiah 4:4 NLT
Observation:
God speaks here to Judah and tells the to surrender their pride and power. He tells them to change their hearts before the Lord. He goes on to tell them that their sins were bringing on his unquenchable anger because of their sins. God doesn’t take sin and pride lightly.
Application:
God hates sin. We must understand this and determine in our hearts to live lives that please Him. He is worthy of the best. Jesus gave His life to empower us to live as He lived. He sets a high standard for His people, but He also gave us His Spirit to enable us to live the way He wants us to. We must cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and make sure we are living above sin.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to live my life above sin. I don’t want anything to separate me from You. I want to be pure and live in Your favor and not Your wrath. I want my life to bring You glory. Fill me fresh with Your Spirit and help me to live in a way that pleases You completely.
Your Son,
Jeff
“O people of Judah and Jerusalem, surrender your pride and power. Change your hearts before the Lord, or my anger will burn like an unquenchable fire because of all your sins.”
Jeremiah 4:4 NLT
Observation:
God speaks here to Judah and tells the to surrender their pride and power. He tells them to change their hearts before the Lord. He goes on to tell them that their sins were bringing on his unquenchable anger because of their sins. God doesn’t take sin and pride lightly.
Application:
God hates sin. We must understand this and determine in our hearts to live lives that please Him. He is worthy of the best. Jesus gave His life to empower us to live as He lived. He sets a high standard for His people, but He also gave us His Spirit to enable us to live the way He wants us to. We must cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and make sure we are living above sin.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to live my life above sin. I don’t want anything to separate me from You. I want to be pure and live in Your favor and not Your wrath. I want my life to bring You glory. Fill me fresh with Your Spirit and help me to live in a way that pleases You completely.
Your Son,
Jeff
Wednesday, October 10, 2018
Fountain or Cistern?
Scripture:
““For my people have done two evil things: They have abandoned me— the fountain of living water. And they have dug for themselves cracked cisterns that can hold no water at all!”
Jeremiah 2:13 NLT
Observation:
The Lord speaks to Jeremiah here about how His people have treated Him in walking away from Him to worship and serve other gods. He says they have abandoned the fountain of living water and dung cisterns that are cracked and can’t even hold water. Their man-made idols couldn’t hold any water and they left the fountain of living water to trust in their own idols.
Application:
Am I gettin water from the living fountain of life or am I feeding on things I have made? I want to live a life full of the Holy Spirit and fire. I want to live a life full of Zoe life. I don’t want to trust myself, or my way of doing things, over His way. I want living water to flow to me and through me.
Prayer:
Lord, let Your Holy Spirit flow into and through my life. I don’t want cracked cisterns that I think will work. I want Your presence and power in my life. Help me to trust You more and more each day. Show me areas of my life where I am trusting myself or some other thing instead of trusting You. You are my everything and I want to reflect You well to the world.
Your Son,
Jeff
““For my people have done two evil things: They have abandoned me— the fountain of living water. And they have dug for themselves cracked cisterns that can hold no water at all!”
Jeremiah 2:13 NLT
Observation:
The Lord speaks to Jeremiah here about how His people have treated Him in walking away from Him to worship and serve other gods. He says they have abandoned the fountain of living water and dung cisterns that are cracked and can’t even hold water. Their man-made idols couldn’t hold any water and they left the fountain of living water to trust in their own idols.
Application:
Am I gettin water from the living fountain of life or am I feeding on things I have made? I want to live a life full of the Holy Spirit and fire. I want to live a life full of Zoe life. I don’t want to trust myself, or my way of doing things, over His way. I want living water to flow to me and through me.
Prayer:
Lord, let Your Holy Spirit flow into and through my life. I don’t want cracked cisterns that I think will work. I want Your presence and power in my life. Help me to trust You more and more each day. Show me areas of my life where I am trusting myself or some other thing instead of trusting You. You are my everything and I want to reflect You well to the world.
Your Son,
Jeff
Monday, October 1, 2018
The Spirit Poured OutYour
Scripture:
“For I will pour water on him who is thirsty, And floods on the dry ground; I will pour My Spirit on your descendants, And My blessing on your offspring;”
Isaiah 44:3 NKJV
Observation:
Isaiah sees a day when the Spirit of God is poured out. He says the outpouring is for those who are thirsty. He says there will be floods on dry ground.
Application:
When we are thirsty, God will pour out His Spirit on our lives. Our job is to be thirsty, His job is to do the outpouring. I am in India right now, expecting an outpouring of the Holy Spirit. I also want to see His blessing that is promised on my offspring.
Prayer:
Lord, I am thirsty for a move of God here in India and everywhere I go. You are my everything and there is nothing I want more than to see You pour out Your Spirit. I long for a move of God. Pour it out Lord!
Your Son,
Jeff
“For I will pour water on him who is thirsty, And floods on the dry ground; I will pour My Spirit on your descendants, And My blessing on your offspring;”
Isaiah 44:3 NKJV
Observation:
Isaiah sees a day when the Spirit of God is poured out. He says the outpouring is for those who are thirsty. He says there will be floods on dry ground.
Application:
When we are thirsty, God will pour out His Spirit on our lives. Our job is to be thirsty, His job is to do the outpouring. I am in India right now, expecting an outpouring of the Holy Spirit. I also want to see His blessing that is promised on my offspring.
Prayer:
Lord, I am thirsty for a move of God here in India and everywhere I go. You are my everything and there is nothing I want more than to see You pour out Your Spirit. I long for a move of God. Pour it out Lord!
Your Son,
Jeff
Thursday, September 27, 2018
My Foundation
Scripture:
“In that day he will be your sure foundation, providing a rich store of salvation, wisdom, and knowledge. The fear of the Lord will be your treasure.”
Isaiah 33:6 NLT
Observation:
Isaiah here describes the Lord as a sure foundation, providing salvation, wisdom and knowledge. He is truly a foundation to build our lives upon. He is wisdom personified and gives knowledge we can’t have ourselves. He is the source of every good thing.
Application:
I want to trust the Lord more and more each day. I have built my life on Him as a foundation, but sometimes I treat life like I am the foundation instead of Him. When He is the foundation, I don’t stress about what is going to happen. When He is the foundation, I don’t have to worry about certain things. I also want to be a person of great wisdom so this morning I ask the God of all wisdom to fill my life completely.
Prayer:
Father, as I leave for India to declare Your word there, go before me. I pray Your protection over our team and pray for You to pour out Your Spirit on all flesh. May Your hand be upon us mightily and may many, many people make Your their foundation this week.
Your Son,
Jeff
Tuesday, September 25, 2018
You Planned Them
Scripture:
Isaiah 25:1 "O Lord, I will honor and praise your name, for you are my God. You do such wonderful things! You planned them long ago, and now you have accomplished them."
Observation:
Isaiah praises God here and declares Him to be God. He then says that God does wonderful things and that He planned them long ago and has not accomplished them. Nothing takes God by surprise. He planned them all a long time ago.
Application:
When I have things happen in my life, I need to remember that it is not a surprise to God. He planned it long ago and is now accomplishing it. God has been working out the details of my life long before I was born. He knows where I'm going, what I'm doing, and what I'm going to do.
Prayer:
Father, help me to lean on this verse when I am having a bad day, frustrated or just feeling overwhelmed. Help me to remember that You are in control and You have planned every day of my life far in advance. You are amazing!
Your Son,
Jeff
Isaiah 25:1 "O Lord, I will honor and praise your name, for you are my God. You do such wonderful things! You planned them long ago, and now you have accomplished them."
Observation:
Isaiah praises God here and declares Him to be God. He then says that God does wonderful things and that He planned them long ago and has not accomplished them. Nothing takes God by surprise. He planned them all a long time ago.
Application:
When I have things happen in my life, I need to remember that it is not a surprise to God. He planned it long ago and is now accomplishing it. God has been working out the details of my life long before I was born. He knows where I'm going, what I'm doing, and what I'm going to do.
Prayer:
Father, help me to lean on this verse when I am having a bad day, frustrated or just feeling overwhelmed. Help me to remember that You are in control and You have planned every day of my life far in advance. You are amazing!
Your Son,
Jeff
Saturday, September 22, 2018
Who Can Change God’s Plans?
Scripture:
“The Lord of Heaven’s Armies has spoken— who can change his plans? When his hand is raised, who can stop him?””
Isaiah 14:27 NLT
Observation:
In this chapter, Isaiah is speaking of Babylon and their future. God was allowing them to overthrow Israel, but He was also letting everyone know that their day was coming as well and that Israel would return to their land. The words, “The Lord of Heaven’s Armies has spoken - who can change His plans?” Really stood out to me today. When God speaks... it is going to happen!
Application:
Isaiah was telling everyone that when God speaks, nobody can change His plans and when He has determined to do something, nobody Cna stop Him. When I come to the Lord, I must realize that His plans are going to come to pass. I must believe that God is resolute concerning His plans and that He will fulfill them if I walk in step with Him. When discouraged, I need to remember that what God says is going to happen.
Prayer:
Lord, thanks for reminding me that Your plans for my life, family, church and region are going to come to pass. You are incredible and there is none like You. Help me to see you as Isaiah saw You. Help me to trust You more and more each day. Walk with me today and let me speak Your words. Let my life bring You honor today. Let me pray Your words at the Washington Prayer Gathering.
Yours,
Jeff
“The Lord of Heaven’s Armies has spoken— who can change his plans? When his hand is raised, who can stop him?””
Isaiah 14:27 NLT
Observation:
In this chapter, Isaiah is speaking of Babylon and their future. God was allowing them to overthrow Israel, but He was also letting everyone know that their day was coming as well and that Israel would return to their land. The words, “The Lord of Heaven’s Armies has spoken - who can change His plans?” Really stood out to me today. When God speaks... it is going to happen!
Application:
Isaiah was telling everyone that when God speaks, nobody can change His plans and when He has determined to do something, nobody Cna stop Him. When I come to the Lord, I must realize that His plans are going to come to pass. I must believe that God is resolute concerning His plans and that He will fulfill them if I walk in step with Him. When discouraged, I need to remember that what God says is going to happen.
Prayer:
Lord, thanks for reminding me that Your plans for my life, family, church and region are going to come to pass. You are incredible and there is none like You. Help me to see you as Isaiah saw You. Help me to trust You more and more each day. Walk with me today and let me speak Your words. Let my life bring You honor today. Let me pray Your words at the Washington Prayer Gathering.
Yours,
Jeff
Friday, September 21, 2018
My Strength and My Song
Scripture:
“See, God has come to save me. I will trust in him and not be afraid. The Lord GOD is my strength and my song; he has given me victory.””
Isaiah 12:2 NLT
Observation:
In this passage God was speaking through Isaiah about what He was going to do to Israel. He was finished with them and was going to destroy them through the Assyrians. At the same time, He said, it won’t last forever, but I will wipe our the Assyrians and bring you back to your home. His goal is that His people will say, “God has come to save me. I will trust in him and not be afraid. The Lord God is my strength and my song; he has given me victory.”
Application:
God wants to be our strength and song, our victory and the one we trust. He wants us to depend in Him for our sustenance and our battles. He wants to be the center of our lives. He wants us to yield the glory to Him for all He does in our lives. When we don’t praise Him for what He has done, we are walking in pride and He then will resist us instead of working on our behalf. I need to trust God more and praise Him more.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to give Your praise more often and to let the world know how amazing You are. Open doors for me to declare Your goodness to the nations and I will go. If You open the doors, I will declare Your praises to the ends of the earth. You are my strength and my song. You are my victory. I owe all my life to You.
Yours Forever,
Jeff
“See, God has come to save me. I will trust in him and not be afraid. The Lord GOD is my strength and my song; he has given me victory.””
Isaiah 12:2 NLT
Observation:
In this passage God was speaking through Isaiah about what He was going to do to Israel. He was finished with them and was going to destroy them through the Assyrians. At the same time, He said, it won’t last forever, but I will wipe our the Assyrians and bring you back to your home. His goal is that His people will say, “God has come to save me. I will trust in him and not be afraid. The Lord God is my strength and my song; he has given me victory.”
Application:
God wants to be our strength and song, our victory and the one we trust. He wants us to depend in Him for our sustenance and our battles. He wants to be the center of our lives. He wants us to yield the glory to Him for all He does in our lives. When we don’t praise Him for what He has done, we are walking in pride and He then will resist us instead of working on our behalf. I need to trust God more and praise Him more.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to give Your praise more often and to let the world know how amazing You are. Open doors for me to declare Your goodness to the nations and I will go. If You open the doors, I will declare Your praises to the ends of the earth. You are my strength and my song. You are my victory. I owe all my life to You.
Yours Forever,
Jeff
Thursday, September 20, 2018
Fairness and Justice
Scripture:
“His government and its peace will never end. He will rule with fairness and justice from the throne of his ancestor David for all eternity. The passionate commitment of the Lord of Heaven’s Armies will make this happen!”
Isaiah 9:7 NLT
Observation:
Isaiah here is speaking of the rule and reign of Christ. He says the Lord will rule with fairness and justice and that the passionate commitment of the Lord of Heaven’s Armies is going to do this. When God rules, it is with fairness and justice. God despises unfair and non-just actions.
Application:
The Lord has been dealing with me in the area of justice recently and I am seeing more and more how important justice is in His kingdom. He is a just God and wants those who follow Him to seek justice. I want to learn more and more about this as I see the Lord’s heart for it more and more in Scripture. If we represent the Lord on the earth as His ambassadors, we should be people fo fairness and justice.
Prayer:
Father, continue to open my eyes to fairness and justice. Show me Your view on these things. I want to serve You well and represent You well in the earth. Help me to see through Your eyes and hear through You ears. I want to know Your heart more and more. Show me what is important to You and let it become important to me.
Yours,
Jeff
“His government and its peace will never end. He will rule with fairness and justice from the throne of his ancestor David for all eternity. The passionate commitment of the Lord of Heaven’s Armies will make this happen!”
Isaiah 9:7 NLT
Observation:
Isaiah here is speaking of the rule and reign of Christ. He says the Lord will rule with fairness and justice and that the passionate commitment of the Lord of Heaven’s Armies is going to do this. When God rules, it is with fairness and justice. God despises unfair and non-just actions.
Application:
The Lord has been dealing with me in the area of justice recently and I am seeing more and more how important justice is in His kingdom. He is a just God and wants those who follow Him to seek justice. I want to learn more and more about this as I see the Lord’s heart for it more and more in Scripture. If we represent the Lord on the earth as His ambassadors, we should be people fo fairness and justice.
Prayer:
Father, continue to open my eyes to fairness and justice. Show me Your view on these things. I want to serve You well and represent You well in the earth. Help me to see through Your eyes and hear through You ears. I want to know Your heart more and more. Show me what is important to You and let it become important to me.
Yours,
Jeff
Wednesday, September 19, 2018
The Hard Will of God
Scripture:
“Harden the hearts of these people. Plug their ears and shut their eyes. That way, they will not see with their eyes, nor hear with their ears, nor understand with their hearts and turn to me for healing.””
Isaiah 6:10 NLT
Observation:
Just before this scene, Isaiah sees the Lord high and lifted up on his throne. He experiences cherubim and seraphim crying holy, holy, holy. He feels guilty before the Lord and ends up being called by God to which he responds, “Here am I, send me.” After this powerful enounter with God, Isaiah hears his calling which is to harden people’s hearts, plug their ears and close their eyes so they won’t see.
Application:
Our generation loves to talk about the grace and goodness of God, but what if God called us to speak of His justice, anger and impending judgment? We see the call of God as bringing life, love and liberty to people. What is God said, “I want you to make people’s hearts hard, close their ears and their eyes because I want to destroy them. Would our answer still be “Here am I. Send me?” I want to able to say yes to “whatever” the Lord calls me to do. I want Him to know He can trust me with the hard will of God.
Prayer:
Father, I love Your blessings and your incredible love. I also want to serve You completely and fulfill Your will for my life. Help me to do Your will when it is easy and when it is hard. Help me to be faithful when the blessings are flowing and when it seems there are no grapes on the vine. More than anything, empower me to do Your will, whatever that is.
Your Son,
Jeff
“Harden the hearts of these people. Plug their ears and shut their eyes. That way, they will not see with their eyes, nor hear with their ears, nor understand with their hearts and turn to me for healing.””
Isaiah 6:10 NLT
Observation:
Just before this scene, Isaiah sees the Lord high and lifted up on his throne. He experiences cherubim and seraphim crying holy, holy, holy. He feels guilty before the Lord and ends up being called by God to which he responds, “Here am I, send me.” After this powerful enounter with God, Isaiah hears his calling which is to harden people’s hearts, plug their ears and close their eyes so they won’t see.
Application:
Our generation loves to talk about the grace and goodness of God, but what if God called us to speak of His justice, anger and impending judgment? We see the call of God as bringing life, love and liberty to people. What is God said, “I want you to make people’s hearts hard, close their ears and their eyes because I want to destroy them. Would our answer still be “Here am I. Send me?” I want to able to say yes to “whatever” the Lord calls me to do. I want Him to know He can trust me with the hard will of God.
Prayer:
Father, I love Your blessings and your incredible love. I also want to serve You completely and fulfill Your will for my life. Help me to do Your will when it is easy and when it is hard. Help me to be faithful when the blessings are flowing and when it seems there are no grapes on the vine. More than anything, empower me to do Your will, whatever that is.
Your Son,
Jeff
Tuesday, September 18, 2018
Restoration and Revival
Scripture:
“Zion will be restored by justice; those who repent will be revived by righteousness.”
Isaiah 1:27 NLT
Observation:
Isaiah says here that Zion will be restored by justice and those who repent will be revived by righteousness. We don’t talk much about justice any more, but God’s is just. He does what is just and wants his people to bring about justice for the oppressed. He also tells us that those who repent will be revived by righteousness.
Application:
I need to learn more and study justice. I know it is God’s heart, but I don’t have a full understanding of justice from God’s point of view. I also want to live in righteousness and fulfill all God has for my life. I want to serve Him well to the end of my days. I want to be a vessel that brings repentance and revival to others.
Prayer:
Father, use my life to bring about repentence and revival in the hearts of people all over the world. Teach me your justice and reveal to me more about this topic. I want to learn. Flow through my life to bring revival, repentance and righteousness. On this trip to India, pour out Your Spirit. Let mulititudes be impacted isn’t this way.
Your Son,
Jeff
“Zion will be restored by justice; those who repent will be revived by righteousness.”
Isaiah 1:27 NLT
Observation:
Isaiah says here that Zion will be restored by justice and those who repent will be revived by righteousness. We don’t talk much about justice any more, but God’s is just. He does what is just and wants his people to bring about justice for the oppressed. He also tells us that those who repent will be revived by righteousness.
Application:
I need to learn more and study justice. I know it is God’s heart, but I don’t have a full understanding of justice from God’s point of view. I also want to live in righteousness and fulfill all God has for my life. I want to serve Him well to the end of my days. I want to be a vessel that brings repentance and revival to others.
Prayer:
Father, use my life to bring about repentence and revival in the hearts of people all over the world. Teach me your justice and reveal to me more about this topic. I want to learn. Flow through my life to bring revival, repentance and righteousness. On this trip to India, pour out Your Spirit. Let mulititudes be impacted isn’t this way.
Your Son,
Jeff
Monday, September 17, 2018
Love the Word
Scripture:
“When you come, please bring the leather book bag along with the books I left in Troas with Carpus—especially the parchment scrolls.”
2 Timothy 4:13 TPT
Observation:
Paul is writing his final letter to Timothy. He is in prison and has truly given his life for the Gospel. One of the things he longs for someone to bring him is his book bag and scrolls. Paul had a love for the word of God that lasted till death. He didn’t like being apart from his scripture.
Application:
Sometimes when a person has preached and worked in ministry for decades their love for the word of God dimishes and their amount of study of the word diminishes. Paul, at the end of his life, wanted the word with him. I want to be more in love with God’s word as I get older than I was when I was young. I want to be like Paul and have a strong desire to be in the word at all times.
Prayer:
Lord, increase my desire for Your Word. Let my heart be fixed on Your word. Let Your Word be life and truth to me and let me hunger and thirst for more of Yoru word. You are amazing and Your word is life to me. Let my thirst for You and Your word increase throughout my years.
Your Son,
Jeff
“When you come, please bring the leather book bag along with the books I left in Troas with Carpus—especially the parchment scrolls.”
2 Timothy 4:13 TPT
Observation:
Paul is writing his final letter to Timothy. He is in prison and has truly given his life for the Gospel. One of the things he longs for someone to bring him is his book bag and scrolls. Paul had a love for the word of God that lasted till death. He didn’t like being apart from his scripture.
Application:
Sometimes when a person has preached and worked in ministry for decades their love for the word of God dimishes and their amount of study of the word diminishes. Paul, at the end of his life, wanted the word with him. I want to be more in love with God’s word as I get older than I was when I was young. I want to be like Paul and have a strong desire to be in the word at all times.
Prayer:
Lord, increase my desire for Your Word. Let my heart be fixed on Your word. Let Your Word be life and truth to me and let me hunger and thirst for more of Yoru word. You are amazing and Your word is life to me. Let my thirst for You and Your word increase throughout my years.
Your Son,
Jeff
Saturday, September 15, 2018
When God Looks at Me
Scripture:
“When I look at you, I see how you have taken my fruit and tasted my word. Your life has become clean and pure, like a lamb washed and newly shorn. You now show grace and balance with truth on display.”
Song of Songs 4:2 TPT
Observation:
Song of Songs has been debated forever whether it is simply a story of two lovers or if it is the Lord and His bride. If you look at it as the Lord and His Bride, this verse is powerful. This would be God looking at us as his bride. It says he sees how we have taken His fruit and tasted His word. He sees us as having clean and pure lives. He says we show grace and balance with truth on display.
Application:
Can God look at my life and see that I have eaten His fruit and tasted His word? Does my life reflect being clean and pure, like a washed and newly shorn sheep? Does my life display grace, balance and truth? I want my life to reflect all these things and I want my lover-Lord to see me this way. I want to live a life that pleases Him.
Prayer:
Lord, let my life be clean and pure. Let me represent You well. Help me to walk in Your love and to be passionately in love with You like the Shulamite in Song of Songs. Let my life be centered on You and Your life. I want to be completely Yors for You to work in and through.
Your Fiancée,
Jeff
“When I look at you, I see how you have taken my fruit and tasted my word. Your life has become clean and pure, like a lamb washed and newly shorn. You now show grace and balance with truth on display.”
Song of Songs 4:2 TPT
Observation:
Song of Songs has been debated forever whether it is simply a story of two lovers or if it is the Lord and His bride. If you look at it as the Lord and His Bride, this verse is powerful. This would be God looking at us as his bride. It says he sees how we have taken His fruit and tasted His word. He sees us as having clean and pure lives. He says we show grace and balance with truth on display.
Application:
Can God look at my life and see that I have eaten His fruit and tasted His word? Does my life reflect being clean and pure, like a washed and newly shorn sheep? Does my life display grace, balance and truth? I want my life to reflect all these things and I want my lover-Lord to see me this way. I want to live a life that pleases Him.
Prayer:
Lord, let my life be clean and pure. Let me represent You well. Help me to walk in Your love and to be passionately in love with You like the Shulamite in Song of Songs. Let my life be centered on You and Your life. I want to be completely Yors for You to work in and through.
Your Fiancée,
Jeff
Friday, September 14, 2018
What Am I Chasing After?
Scripture:
“Timothy, you are God’s man, so run from all these errors. Instead, chase after true holiness, justice, faithfulness, love, hope, and tender humility.”
1 Timothy 6:11 TPT
Observation:
Just prior to this verse, Paul tells Timothy that there will be false teachers who claim all kinds of false doctrine and teachings. He tells him to run away from all the errors and to stay true to what he has been taught by Paul. He then adds that he should chase after trues holiness, justice, faithfulness, love, hope, and tender humility. These are the things we need in our lives more than the latest doctrine flying around.
Application:
Rather than chasing the newest revelation someone has received, I need to chase after the list that Paul laid out to Timothy. I need to be chasing holiness, justice for those who are not receiving justice, faithfulness, love, hope, and tender humility. When we get these things right, we will make an impact for Christ. I want to keep it simple and love people well. I want to be faithful to Him who called me.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to keep ministry simple and serve like You served. Help me to demonstrated Christ more and more in my life. Let my life be filled with You to overflow. Help me to walk as You walked and live as You lived. I want to serve You and Your Kingdom well.
Your Son,
Jeff
“Timothy, you are God’s man, so run from all these errors. Instead, chase after true holiness, justice, faithfulness, love, hope, and tender humility.”
1 Timothy 6:11 TPT
Observation:
Just prior to this verse, Paul tells Timothy that there will be false teachers who claim all kinds of false doctrine and teachings. He tells him to run away from all the errors and to stay true to what he has been taught by Paul. He then adds that he should chase after trues holiness, justice, faithfulness, love, hope, and tender humility. These are the things we need in our lives more than the latest doctrine flying around.
Application:
Rather than chasing the newest revelation someone has received, I need to chase after the list that Paul laid out to Timothy. I need to be chasing holiness, justice for those who are not receiving justice, faithfulness, love, hope, and tender humility. When we get these things right, we will make an impact for Christ. I want to keep it simple and love people well. I want to be faithful to Him who called me.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to keep ministry simple and serve like You served. Help me to demonstrated Christ more and more in my life. Let my life be filled with You to overflow. Help me to walk as You walked and live as You lived. I want to serve You and Your Kingdom well.
Your Son,
Jeff
Thursday, September 13, 2018
An Overflowing Heart
Scripture:
“My heart spills over with thanks to God for the way he continually empowers me, and to our Lord Jesus, the Anointed One, who found me trustworthy and who authorized me to be his partner in this ministry.”
1 Timothy 1:12 TPT
Observation:
Paul is writing to Timothy and tells him that his heart spills overs for the way the Lord empowers him and partners with him in ministry. He could have said a lot of things to his spiritual son, but he focuses here on the heart full of gratitude that God would call him and work with him and allow him to be used in ministry. He is amazed that God calls him trustworthy .
Application:
I need my heart to spill over this week because of the honor of being called to serve the Lord. I have allowed some discouragement and frustration to enter my heart this week and God is showing me today through Paul that it is a pure joy to be able to serve the Lord and work with him. It is an honor to be called to serve His kingdom purposes. I need to focus on the joy of partnering with God to accomplish His will in the earth instead of what I don’t see getting done.
Prayer:
Lord God Almighty, You are amazing and I love You. I’m sorry for allowing myself to be frustrated this week in ministry. Help me to keep my focus on You and Your will. I want to hear Your voice and I want a heart that overflows with joy in serving Your people. Help me to have the right heart in all areas.
Yours,
Jeff
“My heart spills over with thanks to God for the way he continually empowers me, and to our Lord Jesus, the Anointed One, who found me trustworthy and who authorized me to be his partner in this ministry.”
1 Timothy 1:12 TPT
Observation:
Paul is writing to Timothy and tells him that his heart spills overs for the way the Lord empowers him and partners with him in ministry. He could have said a lot of things to his spiritual son, but he focuses here on the heart full of gratitude that God would call him and work with him and allow him to be used in ministry. He is amazed that God calls him trustworthy .
Application:
I need my heart to spill over this week because of the honor of being called to serve the Lord. I have allowed some discouragement and frustration to enter my heart this week and God is showing me today through Paul that it is a pure joy to be able to serve the Lord and work with him. It is an honor to be called to serve His kingdom purposes. I need to focus on the joy of partnering with God to accomplish His will in the earth instead of what I don’t see getting done.
Prayer:
Lord God Almighty, You are amazing and I love You. I’m sorry for allowing myself to be frustrated this week in ministry. Help me to keep my focus on You and Your will. I want to hear Your voice and I want a heart that overflows with joy in serving Your people. Help me to have the right heart in all areas.
Yours,
Jeff
Wednesday, September 12, 2018
Sharpen the Ax
Scripture:
“Using a dull ax requires great strength, so sharpen the blade. That’s the value of wisdom; it helps you succeed.”
Ecclesiastes 10:10 NLT
Observation:
Wisdom helps you succeed, but you have to use it. A dull ax makes you work harder than a sharp ax so we need to take the time to sharpen it instead of just using force to finish the task. Wisdom beats strength every time.
Application:
I am a person who hates to take a break to sharpen the ax. I tend to use brute strength and force to get things done and in the process hurt myself because I overexterted. I need to learnt to use wisdom more and more as I age in life. I want to be successful, but in order to do that, I know I need to use wisdom instead of strength.
Prayer:
Lord, let me walk with the wise instead of being foolish as I have been in the past. Teach me to value wisdom over strength. Help me to follow You at all times and to use the wisdom You have provided me with. I am Yours, convict me when I’m using a dull ax and when I need to take a break to sharpen.
Your Son,
Jeff
“Using a dull ax requires great strength, so sharpen the blade. That’s the value of wisdom; it helps you succeed.”
Ecclesiastes 10:10 NLT
Observation:
Wisdom helps you succeed, but you have to use it. A dull ax makes you work harder than a sharp ax so we need to take the time to sharpen it instead of just using force to finish the task. Wisdom beats strength every time.
Application:
I am a person who hates to take a break to sharpen the ax. I tend to use brute strength and force to get things done and in the process hurt myself because I overexterted. I need to learnt to use wisdom more and more as I age in life. I want to be successful, but in order to do that, I know I need to use wisdom instead of strength.
Prayer:
Lord, let me walk with the wise instead of being foolish as I have been in the past. Teach me to value wisdom over strength. Help me to follow You at all times and to use the wisdom You have provided me with. I am Yours, convict me when I’m using a dull ax and when I need to take a break to sharpen.
Your Son,
Jeff
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