Scripture:
Romans 1:9 "God knows how often I pray for you. Day and night I bring you and your needs in prayer to God, whom I serve with all my heart by spreading the Good News about his Son."
Observation:
Paul was writing to the Romans, who he had never been able to be with at this point, and he tells them that he prays for them day and night for their needs. He tells them that God knows this is true. Apparently Paul prayed continually for people and churches around the world. Not just once in a while, but constantly.
Application:
I need to spend more time in prayer for my church family, my city, my nation and the world. Most of my prayer time is personal about me and my family, but I want that to change. I want to begin to pray more for others and to stand in the gap for those I may not even know. I desire to walk like Paul as he prayed for people.
Prayer:
Lord, teach me to pray. Help me to not just spend time communing with you, but to spend time praying for those around me, those near me, and those far from me. Let my life be an intercession for the lost, the newly found and the long time followers of Christ. Teach me to be an intercessor for others.
Your Son,
Jeff
Monday, April 30, 2018
Saturday, April 28, 2018
Don't Give In
Scripture:
Judges 16:16-17 "She tormented him with her nagging day after day until he was sick ti death of it. Finally, Samson shared his secret with her. 'My hair has never been cut,' he confessed, 'for I was dedicated to God as a Nazirite from birth. If my head were shaved, my strength would leave me, and I would become as weak an anyone else'".
Observation:
Knowing that Delilah had already tried several times to take away his strength, Samson still gave in to her nagging because he couldn't take it anymore. He knew better, but the constant nagging wore him down. He loved her and didn't want her upset with him, so he gave up his secret and eventually his life.
Application:
We should fear God more than the people who are nagging us. If we give in to nagging and allow it to lead us instead of God leading us, we are no better than Samson. We must stand firm in what God has called us to do and not allow constant nagging to deter us from what God has for us. We must be nagged by the Spirit more than nagged by others.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to listen to Your voice above all others and to do what You want above what anyone else wants or desires. Help me to fear You more than fearing those who try to control me. Teach me to stand strong in who You have called me to be. Bless my life for that obedience.
Yours,
Jeff
Judges 16:16-17 "She tormented him with her nagging day after day until he was sick ti death of it. Finally, Samson shared his secret with her. 'My hair has never been cut,' he confessed, 'for I was dedicated to God as a Nazirite from birth. If my head were shaved, my strength would leave me, and I would become as weak an anyone else'".
Observation:
Knowing that Delilah had already tried several times to take away his strength, Samson still gave in to her nagging because he couldn't take it anymore. He knew better, but the constant nagging wore him down. He loved her and didn't want her upset with him, so he gave up his secret and eventually his life.
Application:
We should fear God more than the people who are nagging us. If we give in to nagging and allow it to lead us instead of God leading us, we are no better than Samson. We must stand firm in what God has called us to do and not allow constant nagging to deter us from what God has for us. We must be nagged by the Spirit more than nagged by others.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to listen to Your voice above all others and to do what You want above what anyone else wants or desires. Help me to fear You more than fearing those who try to control me. Teach me to stand strong in who You have called me to be. Bless my life for that obedience.
Yours,
Jeff
Friday, April 27, 2018
The Spirit of the Lord Makes the Difference
Scripture:
Judges 15:14-15 "But the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon Samson, and he snapped the ropes on his arms as if they were burnt strands of flax, and they fell from his wrists. Then he found the jawbone of a recently killed donkey. He picked it up and killed 1,000 Philistines with it."
Observation:
The Spirit of the Lord is powerful. When He comes upon a person, nothing is impossible for them. The Spirit of the Lord came upon Samson and caused him to kill 1,000 men with the jawbone of a donkey. The natural becomes supernatural when the Spirit of the Lord comes upon it.
Application:
We don't want to be like Samson in the way he constantly blew it on his vows to God, but we can learn something here from him and the Lord. The thing we need more than anything else in our lives is the Spirit of the Lord to be upon us. When the Spirit of the Lord is upon your life, you are unstoppable.
Prayer:
Lord, pour out Your Spirit in my life. Let Your hand be upon me to accomplish Your purposes. I don't want to walk in my own power or strength, but in the power and strength of the Lord. Come upon my life and help me do Your will in the earth. I want more of Your Spirit in and on my life.
Your Son,
Jeff
Judges 15:14-15 "But the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon Samson, and he snapped the ropes on his arms as if they were burnt strands of flax, and they fell from his wrists. Then he found the jawbone of a recently killed donkey. He picked it up and killed 1,000 Philistines with it."
Observation:
The Spirit of the Lord is powerful. When He comes upon a person, nothing is impossible for them. The Spirit of the Lord came upon Samson and caused him to kill 1,000 men with the jawbone of a donkey. The natural becomes supernatural when the Spirit of the Lord comes upon it.
Application:
We don't want to be like Samson in the way he constantly blew it on his vows to God, but we can learn something here from him and the Lord. The thing we need more than anything else in our lives is the Spirit of the Lord to be upon us. When the Spirit of the Lord is upon your life, you are unstoppable.
Prayer:
Lord, pour out Your Spirit in my life. Let Your hand be upon me to accomplish Your purposes. I don't want to walk in my own power or strength, but in the power and strength of the Lord. Come upon my life and help me do Your will in the earth. I want more of Your Spirit in and on my life.
Your Son,
Jeff
Wednesday, April 25, 2018
Don't Let Your Victory Become Your Trap
Scripture:
Judges 8:27 "Gideon made a sacred ephod from the gold and put it in Ophrah, his hometown. But soon all the Israelites prostituted themselves by worshiping it, and it became a trap for Gideon and his family."
Observation:
Gideon took gold earrings from the plunder of defeating his enemies and made an ephod out of it. The Israelites began to worship it, which the Lord hates. The offshoot of his greatest victory became a trap to him and the people he was leading.
Application:
Never make a god out of success. When God gives us victories, big or small, He is to be praised and not ourselves. We can't take credit for the work of God in any way, it always becomes a trap. God wants to know whether we will recognize and honor Him for what He does in our lives. He doesn't share His glory with anyone.
Prayer:
Lord God Almighty, help me to never make an idol out of a victory You give me. Teach me to honor You always and never take glory for what You have done. Let my life bring you honor and praise. Teach me to win victories, but never to take the credit. Help me to walk in humility at all times.
Yours,
Jeff
Judges 8:27 "Gideon made a sacred ephod from the gold and put it in Ophrah, his hometown. But soon all the Israelites prostituted themselves by worshiping it, and it became a trap for Gideon and his family."
Observation:
Gideon took gold earrings from the plunder of defeating his enemies and made an ephod out of it. The Israelites began to worship it, which the Lord hates. The offshoot of his greatest victory became a trap to him and the people he was leading.
Application:
Never make a god out of success. When God gives us victories, big or small, He is to be praised and not ourselves. We can't take credit for the work of God in any way, it always becomes a trap. God wants to know whether we will recognize and honor Him for what He does in our lives. He doesn't share His glory with anyone.
Prayer:
Lord God Almighty, help me to never make an idol out of a victory You give me. Teach me to honor You always and never take glory for what You have done. Let my life bring you honor and praise. Teach me to win victories, but never to take the credit. Help me to walk in humility at all times.
Yours,
Jeff
Monday, April 23, 2018
Drive Out What God Says Drive Out
Scripture:
Judges 2:2-3 "for your part, you were not to make any covenants with the people living in this land; instead, you were to destroy their altars. But you disobeyed my command. Why did you do this? So now I declare that I will no longer drive out the people living in your land. They will be thorns in your sides, and their gods will be a constant temptation to you".
Observation:
The people of Israel only obeyed God to the point that they felt they needed to. Instead of doing exactly what God told them to do, they thought to themselves that God's way was a little overkill. They decided to only do a fraction of what God told them. What they left undone, came back to haunt them and became thorns to their sides and constant temptation to them.
Application:
When we come to God, we must learn to do things His way and not our own. Partial obedience doesn't work with God. He wants us to trust Him completely and do what He wants. When we do this, we are promised victory, success, prosperity, and His blessing. When we do things our own way, we can expect Him to lift his hand of blessing off of our lives.
Prayer:
Father, help me to follow You completely and not to just do what seems right to me. I don't want any thorns in my side in my life. I want to live in Your blessing and goodness. Help me to completely fulfill Your will in every area of my life. I am Yours.
Your Son,
Jeff
Judges 2:2-3 "for your part, you were not to make any covenants with the people living in this land; instead, you were to destroy their altars. But you disobeyed my command. Why did you do this? So now I declare that I will no longer drive out the people living in your land. They will be thorns in your sides, and their gods will be a constant temptation to you".
Observation:
The people of Israel only obeyed God to the point that they felt they needed to. Instead of doing exactly what God told them to do, they thought to themselves that God's way was a little overkill. They decided to only do a fraction of what God told them. What they left undone, came back to haunt them and became thorns to their sides and constant temptation to them.
Application:
When we come to God, we must learn to do things His way and not our own. Partial obedience doesn't work with God. He wants us to trust Him completely and do what He wants. When we do this, we are promised victory, success, prosperity, and His blessing. When we do things our own way, we can expect Him to lift his hand of blessing off of our lives.
Prayer:
Father, help me to follow You completely and not to just do what seems right to me. I don't want any thorns in my side in my life. I want to live in Your blessing and goodness. Help me to completely fulfill Your will in every area of my life. I am Yours.
Your Son,
Jeff
Saturday, April 21, 2018
The Call of God
Scripture:
Acts 26:18 "to open their eyes, so they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God. Then they will receive forgiveness for their sins and be given a place among God's people, who are set apart by faith in me."
Observation:
Paul's calling was clear, direct, and straight from Jesus Himself. He was told specifically that he was called to open people's eyes so they could turn from darkness to light and from Satan's power to God's. As a result, they would receive forgiveness for sins and be given a place with God's people.
Application:
We need to seek God until He clearly speaks to us about our lives. Paul knew the what of his calling, but at times in his travels he didn't know the who he was to minister to. There were times he was unclear about his direction, but he knew his calling and could clearly communicate it at any time. We need to know our purpose and calling and operate out of that.
Prayer:
Father, make my calling and purpose more clear to me each day. Let me fulfill Your will every day of my life. Help me to walk with You and to know what to do at each step in my life. Show me the way forward that I may fulfill my calling.
Your Son,
Jeff
Acts 26:18 "to open their eyes, so they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God. Then they will receive forgiveness for their sins and be given a place among God's people, who are set apart by faith in me."
Observation:
Paul's calling was clear, direct, and straight from Jesus Himself. He was told specifically that he was called to open people's eyes so they could turn from darkness to light and from Satan's power to God's. As a result, they would receive forgiveness for sins and be given a place with God's people.
Application:
We need to seek God until He clearly speaks to us about our lives. Paul knew the what of his calling, but at times in his travels he didn't know the who he was to minister to. There were times he was unclear about his direction, but he knew his calling and could clearly communicate it at any time. We need to know our purpose and calling and operate out of that.
Prayer:
Father, make my calling and purpose more clear to me each day. Let me fulfill Your will every day of my life. Help me to walk with You and to know what to do at each step in my life. Show me the way forward that I may fulfill my calling.
Your Son,
Jeff
Friday, April 20, 2018
Chosen for a Purpose
Scripture:
Acts 22:14 "Then he told me, 'The God of our ancestors has chosen you to know his will and to see the Righteous One and hear him speak."
Observation:
In this passage, Paul is giving the story of his salvation and beginning of walking as a believer. He tells the story about Ananias telling him to receive his sight after being blinded for three days. Ananias spoke the above words to Paul. He was chosen to know God's will, see the Righteous One and to hear him.
Application:
As Paul was chosen by God to know, to see and to hear, we also have that ability. I have committed my life to knowing God's will and doing it. I want to see Him more and more and I strongly desire to hear Him speak clearly. My desire on this earth is to know, see, and hear the Lord, and then to do what He says.
Prayer:
Open my heart, my eyes and my ears Lord. I need to know, hear and see you. I want to walk with You in intimacy. I want to know Your heart and do Your will above anything else. Show me Your path and plan for me daily. Help me to never miss what You want me to do any day.
Yours,
Jeff
Acts 22:14 "Then he told me, 'The God of our ancestors has chosen you to know his will and to see the Righteous One and hear him speak."
Observation:
In this passage, Paul is giving the story of his salvation and beginning of walking as a believer. He tells the story about Ananias telling him to receive his sight after being blinded for three days. Ananias spoke the above words to Paul. He was chosen to know God's will, see the Righteous One and to hear him.
Application:
As Paul was chosen by God to know, to see and to hear, we also have that ability. I have committed my life to knowing God's will and doing it. I want to see Him more and more and I strongly desire to hear Him speak clearly. My desire on this earth is to know, see, and hear the Lord, and then to do what He says.
Prayer:
Open my heart, my eyes and my ears Lord. I need to know, hear and see you. I want to walk with You in intimacy. I want to know Your heart and do Your will above anything else. Show me Your path and plan for me daily. Help me to never miss what You want me to do any day.
Yours,
Jeff
Thursday, April 19, 2018
Unusual Miracles
Scripture:
Acts 19:11 "God gave Paul the power to perform unusual miracles."
Observation:
This thought goes on to say that cloth that had touched his skin would be taken to people and they would be healed or demons would come out of people. God backed up the message of Paul with signs and wonders. People can't deny a miracle.
Application:
I want to see the Lord confirm His word more and more with signs and wonders and unusual miracles. Many people won't believe unless they see the goodness and power of God in action. The intellectual will argue doctrine, history, etc, but they can't argue a true miracle. I believe our generation needs to see God work in miracles again.
Prayer:
Father, confirm Your word with miracles. When the Gospel is preached, let it be backed up with signs, wonders, healings, deliverances, etc. Let people see with their eyes and hear with their ears exactly how awesome You are. Let my skeptical generation see Your glory Lord. Show up in power and touch people in a real way.
Yours Completely,
Jeff
Acts 19:11 "God gave Paul the power to perform unusual miracles."
Observation:
This thought goes on to say that cloth that had touched his skin would be taken to people and they would be healed or demons would come out of people. God backed up the message of Paul with signs and wonders. People can't deny a miracle.
Application:
I want to see the Lord confirm His word more and more with signs and wonders and unusual miracles. Many people won't believe unless they see the goodness and power of God in action. The intellectual will argue doctrine, history, etc, but they can't argue a true miracle. I believe our generation needs to see God work in miracles again.
Prayer:
Father, confirm Your word with miracles. When the Gospel is preached, let it be backed up with signs, wonders, healings, deliverances, etc. Let people see with their eyes and hear with their ears exactly how awesome You are. Let my skeptical generation see Your glory Lord. Show up in power and touch people in a real way.
Yours Completely,
Jeff
Wednesday, April 18, 2018
God Gives Visions, We Conclude
Scripture:
Acts 16:10 "So we decided to leave for Macedonia at once, having concluded that God was calling us to preach the Good News there."
Observation:
Paul was on a missionary journey and kept going different directions until he had a dream of a Macedonian saying "come over and help us". He couldn't figure out where God was wanting him to go until this point. When he saw this, he concluded that God wanted him to preach there.
Application:
When we have dreams, visions, and prophecies, we need to seek the Lord and let the Lord confirm those words. Just as God spoke to Paul, He still speaks today, we then have to conclude what it means and what to do with it. God usually gives us clues, but we must conclude, ponder, think about, and decide what to do with it.
Prayer:
Lord, speak to me in dreams and visions. I want to hear Your voice and respond appropriately, Show me where I'm to be and what I'm to do daily. I want to be fully directed by You and Your voice. Speak, and my conclusion will be to follow.
Your Son,
Jeff
Acts 16:10 "So we decided to leave for Macedonia at once, having concluded that God was calling us to preach the Good News there."
Observation:
Paul was on a missionary journey and kept going different directions until he had a dream of a Macedonian saying "come over and help us". He couldn't figure out where God was wanting him to go until this point. When he saw this, he concluded that God wanted him to preach there.
Application:
When we have dreams, visions, and prophecies, we need to seek the Lord and let the Lord confirm those words. Just as God spoke to Paul, He still speaks today, we then have to conclude what it means and what to do with it. God usually gives us clues, but we must conclude, ponder, think about, and decide what to do with it.
Prayer:
Lord, speak to me in dreams and visions. I want to hear Your voice and respond appropriately, Show me where I'm to be and what I'm to do daily. I want to be fully directed by You and Your voice. Speak, and my conclusion will be to follow.
Your Son,
Jeff
Monday, April 16, 2018
Give God the Glory
Scripture:
Acts 12:22-23 "The people gave him a great ovation, shouting, 'It's the voice of a god, not of a man!' Instantly, an angel of the Lord struck Herod with a sickness, because he accepted the people's worship instead of giving the glory to God. So he was consumed with worms and died."
Observation:
Herod was giving a speech and received a great ovation from the people. They were honoring him and said, "it is the voice of a god and not of a man!" Immediately, the scripture says, an angel struck him with sickness because he accepted worship instead of giving glory to God. He was consumed with worms and died.
Application:
God is a jealous God. He doesn't like it when any created person receives worship. Herod didn't give glory to God, and died because of it. This man wasn't even a follower of Jesus, yet he died for allowing himself to be worshiped instead of God. How much more, as followers of Christ, should we be cautious of taking glory from God?
Prayer:
Lord, let my life always bring your honor and great respect. Help me to never take glory from You, but to direct all glory to You. I love you and want Your name glorified. Teach me how to navigate this area of glory and how to properly respond.
Yours,
Jeff
Acts 12:22-23 "The people gave him a great ovation, shouting, 'It's the voice of a god, not of a man!' Instantly, an angel of the Lord struck Herod with a sickness, because he accepted the people's worship instead of giving the glory to God. So he was consumed with worms and died."
Observation:
Herod was giving a speech and received a great ovation from the people. They were honoring him and said, "it is the voice of a god and not of a man!" Immediately, the scripture says, an angel struck him with sickness because he accepted worship instead of giving glory to God. He was consumed with worms and died.
Application:
God is a jealous God. He doesn't like it when any created person receives worship. Herod didn't give glory to God, and died because of it. This man wasn't even a follower of Jesus, yet he died for allowing himself to be worshiped instead of God. How much more, as followers of Christ, should we be cautious of taking glory from God?
Prayer:
Lord, let my life always bring your honor and great respect. Help me to never take glory from You, but to direct all glory to You. I love you and want Your name glorified. Teach me how to navigate this area of glory and how to properly respond.
Yours,
Jeff
Saturday, April 14, 2018
Worthy to Suffer
Scripture:
Acts 5:41 "The apostles left the high council rejoicing that God had counted them worthy to suffer disgrace for the name of Jesus."
Observation:
The apostles had just been flogged for preaching and were told not to speak any more about him publicly. They considered themselves blessed that God allowed them to be worthy to suffer on Christ's behalf.
Application:
May God show us what is really important in life and may we value the right things. Our normal reaction when persecuted in any way, is to feel sorry for ourselves. The disciples didn't feel sorry for themselves, but rather, felt honored to be able to suffer for Christ. This is a whole new perspective. May God teach us to see things the way they saw them.
Prayer:
Lord, teach me to see what You see and to celebrate what You celebrate. I want to know you in the fellowship of Your suffering and in the power of Your resurrection. Help me to have the right perspective when things don't appear to go the right way or the way I think it needs to go.
Yours,
Jeff
Acts 5:41 "The apostles left the high council rejoicing that God had counted them worthy to suffer disgrace for the name of Jesus."
Observation:
The apostles had just been flogged for preaching and were told not to speak any more about him publicly. They considered themselves blessed that God allowed them to be worthy to suffer on Christ's behalf.
Application:
May God show us what is really important in life and may we value the right things. Our normal reaction when persecuted in any way, is to feel sorry for ourselves. The disciples didn't feel sorry for themselves, but rather, felt honored to be able to suffer for Christ. This is a whole new perspective. May God teach us to see things the way they saw them.
Prayer:
Lord, teach me to see what You see and to celebrate what You celebrate. I want to know you in the fellowship of Your suffering and in the power of Your resurrection. Help me to have the right perspective when things don't appear to go the right way or the way I think it needs to go.
Yours,
Jeff
Friday, April 13, 2018
What is so Surprising?
Scripture:
Acts 3:12 "Peter saw his opportunity and addressed the crowd, 'People of Israel,' he said, 'what is so surprising about this? And why stare at us as though we had made this man walk by our own power or godliness?'"
Observation:
When the lame man was healed, the crowds couldn't believe it. They were amazed! Peter addressed them by saying, "what is so surprising about this?" Peter was telling the crowds that they shouldn't have even been surprised because Jesus is alive and He works in and through His people. Therefore, what He did when He was here, He is still doing.
Application:
May God so fill our lives that we have to tell people, "What is so surprising about this?" May our lives be incredible testimonies of the presence and power of the Lord. May we be so abandoned to Him and one with Him that nothing is surprising. May miracles become so commonplace that we have to ask why people are surprised.
Prayer:
Lord, surprise some people through my life. Work in and through me Father. Have Your way in my life. Amaze people at what You can do. I offer myself to You for Your purposes. Let miracles be the normal in my life like it was in Jesus and the early apostles.
Yours,
Jeff
Acts 3:12 "Peter saw his opportunity and addressed the crowd, 'People of Israel,' he said, 'what is so surprising about this? And why stare at us as though we had made this man walk by our own power or godliness?'"
Observation:
When the lame man was healed, the crowds couldn't believe it. They were amazed! Peter addressed them by saying, "what is so surprising about this?" Peter was telling the crowds that they shouldn't have even been surprised because Jesus is alive and He works in and through His people. Therefore, what He did when He was here, He is still doing.
Application:
May God so fill our lives that we have to tell people, "What is so surprising about this?" May our lives be incredible testimonies of the presence and power of the Lord. May we be so abandoned to Him and one with Him that nothing is surprising. May miracles become so commonplace that we have to ask why people are surprised.
Prayer:
Lord, surprise some people through my life. Work in and through me Father. Have Your way in my life. Amaze people at what You can do. I offer myself to You for Your purposes. Let miracles be the normal in my life like it was in Jesus and the early apostles.
Yours,
Jeff
Thursday, April 12, 2018
Personal Experience
Scripture:
Joshua 24:31 "The people of Israel served the Lord throughout the lifetime of Joshua and of the elders who outlived him - those who had personally experienced all that the Lord had done for Israel."
Observation:
It says here that the people of Israel served the Lord during Joshua's life and the life of the elders who lived past him. Then it says it was those who had personally experienced what the Lord had done for them. Experience is a wonderful thing, but it can't be passed down to the next generation.
Application:
Every generation must have an experience with God. One generation cannot live on the blessing and stories of the previous generation. Each generation must encounter Him! Each generation in our churches must have an encounter with God. If not, it will die. Personal experience is powerful! May God help us to prepare environments where people in our generation can encounter the Lord personally.
Prayer:
Lord, let people encounter You through my life. I want the people around me to have an experience with You that is strong and can never be taken away. I truly want to be a bridge between generations. I want each generation to experience You and see Your miracles and power. You are amazing!
Your Son,
Jeff
Joshua 24:31 "The people of Israel served the Lord throughout the lifetime of Joshua and of the elders who outlived him - those who had personally experienced all that the Lord had done for Israel."
Observation:
It says here that the people of Israel served the Lord during Joshua's life and the life of the elders who lived past him. Then it says it was those who had personally experienced what the Lord had done for them. Experience is a wonderful thing, but it can't be passed down to the next generation.
Application:
Every generation must have an experience with God. One generation cannot live on the blessing and stories of the previous generation. Each generation must encounter Him! Each generation in our churches must have an encounter with God. If not, it will die. Personal experience is powerful! May God help us to prepare environments where people in our generation can encounter the Lord personally.
Prayer:
Lord, let people encounter You through my life. I want the people around me to have an experience with You that is strong and can never be taken away. I truly want to be a bridge between generations. I want each generation to experience You and see Your miracles and power. You are amazing!
Your Son,
Jeff
Wednesday, April 11, 2018
Every Promise
Scripture:
Joshua 21:45 "Not a single one of all the good promises the Lord had given to the family of Israel was left unfulfilled; everything he had spoken came true."
Observation:
When Joshua finished distributing the land to the people of Israel, it simply records that not a singe promise the Lord had made them was left unfulfilled. God is a God who does what He says He will do. When you are in covenant with Him, He will keep His end of the deal. He is faithful!
Application:
In our lives, sometimes we hear words from the Lord about our lives. He is faithful to bring them to pass as long as we do our part of the deal. When we do as He wants us to, everything promised to us will definitely come to pass. God doesn't break His promises, rather, His reputation is for doing exactly what He said He would do.
Prayer:
Father, help me to trust Your word and Your character in my life. Leave nothing unfulfilled of what You have spoken to me through the years. Bring to pass Your will in my life. Let the nations know of Your incredible love and do it through my life. I am Yours.
Sincerely,
Jeff
Joshua 21:45 "Not a single one of all the good promises the Lord had given to the family of Israel was left unfulfilled; everything he had spoken came true."
Observation:
When Joshua finished distributing the land to the people of Israel, it simply records that not a singe promise the Lord had made them was left unfulfilled. God is a God who does what He says He will do. When you are in covenant with Him, He will keep His end of the deal. He is faithful!
Application:
In our lives, sometimes we hear words from the Lord about our lives. He is faithful to bring them to pass as long as we do our part of the deal. When we do as He wants us to, everything promised to us will definitely come to pass. God doesn't break His promises, rather, His reputation is for doing exactly what He said He would do.
Prayer:
Father, help me to trust Your word and Your character in my life. Leave nothing unfulfilled of what You have spoken to me through the years. Bring to pass Your will in my life. Let the nations know of Your incredible love and do it through my life. I am Yours.
Sincerely,
Jeff
Tuesday, April 10, 2018
Even Though
Scripture:
Joshua 17:18 "The forests of the hill country will be yours as well. Clear as much of the land as you wish, and take possession of its farthest corners. And you will drive out the Canaanites from the valleys, too, even though they are strong and have iron chariots."
Observation:
Joshua had been promised all of the land and knew God was able to defeat any group that was in that land. He had witnessed how God worked in and through His people and had no doubt about God's ability. He tells Ephraim and Manasseh, "you will drive out the Canaanites from the valleys, too, even though they are strong and have iron chariots."
Application:
Even though things in life may be difficult, God is still able to do what He has promised. Our trust cannot and should not be in ourselves, but in God and His ability. May we learn to say, even though it seems impossible in our flesh, God is able to bring us into His victory. Even though I don't see an answer, God does.
Prayer:
Father, help me when I see potential problems, to also hear the words "even though". I love it when you are real with me. You admit, there are some real problems, but, even so, I'm can still do what I said I can do. Help me to walk in faith and believe You to accomplish Your will in my life.
Your Son,
Jeff
Joshua 17:18 "The forests of the hill country will be yours as well. Clear as much of the land as you wish, and take possession of its farthest corners. And you will drive out the Canaanites from the valleys, too, even though they are strong and have iron chariots."
Observation:
Joshua had been promised all of the land and knew God was able to defeat any group that was in that land. He had witnessed how God worked in and through His people and had no doubt about God's ability. He tells Ephraim and Manasseh, "you will drive out the Canaanites from the valleys, too, even though they are strong and have iron chariots."
Application:
Even though things in life may be difficult, God is still able to do what He has promised. Our trust cannot and should not be in ourselves, but in God and His ability. May we learn to say, even though it seems impossible in our flesh, God is able to bring us into His victory. Even though I don't see an answer, God does.
Prayer:
Father, help me when I see potential problems, to also hear the words "even though". I love it when you are real with me. You admit, there are some real problems, but, even so, I'm can still do what I said I can do. Help me to walk in faith and believe You to accomplish Your will in my life.
Your Son,
Jeff
Monday, April 9, 2018
Excuses Affect Destiny
Scripture:
Joshua 15:63 "But the tribe of Judah could not drive out the Jebusites, who live in the city of Jerusalem, so the Jebusites live there among the people of Judah to this day."
Observation:
God had given the entire Promised Land to the people of Israel, but they had to fight for it. The tribe of Judah gave up on conquering Jerusalem instead of pressing until they won. The Bible records here that the Jebusites stayed there in Jerusalem with the people of Judah. This was not God's plan, but man settled for it.
Application:
In our lives, sometimes there are things God wants us to have, but we can settle than less than God's best instead of fighting for His promises. I need to fight for the promises God has given me and walk by faith when it seems the promises won't come to pass. Whenever we settle for second best, we will always pay the consequences down the road. I want God's best for my life.
Prayer:
Father, don't let me be a settler. Help me to press into the promises You have made me in my life. Teach me to fight for what You desire for me. Take me from being passive to walking in authority and not settling for second best or whatever is given to me.
Yours,
Jeff
Joshua 15:63 "But the tribe of Judah could not drive out the Jebusites, who live in the city of Jerusalem, so the Jebusites live there among the people of Judah to this day."
Observation:
God had given the entire Promised Land to the people of Israel, but they had to fight for it. The tribe of Judah gave up on conquering Jerusalem instead of pressing until they won. The Bible records here that the Jebusites stayed there in Jerusalem with the people of Judah. This was not God's plan, but man settled for it.
Application:
In our lives, sometimes there are things God wants us to have, but we can settle than less than God's best instead of fighting for His promises. I need to fight for the promises God has given me and walk by faith when it seems the promises won't come to pass. Whenever we settle for second best, we will always pay the consequences down the road. I want God's best for my life.
Prayer:
Father, don't let me be a settler. Help me to press into the promises You have made me in my life. Teach me to fight for what You desire for me. Take me from being passive to walking in authority and not settling for second best or whatever is given to me.
Yours,
Jeff
Saturday, April 7, 2018
Obedience Brings Victory
joScripture:
Joshua 8:18, 26 "The the Lord said to Joshua, 'Point the spear in your hand toward Ai, for I will hand the town over to you'. Joshua did as he was commanded... For Joshua kept holding out his spear until everyone who had lived in Ai was completely destroyed."
Observation:
Ai had just defeated Israel when Israel attacked them because Achan had stolen some items that belonged to the Lord. When that was cleared up, Joshua led them back to Ai, this time ready for battle. As they approached, the Lord said to Joshua that he should lift his spear toward Ai. Joshua lifted it and kept holding it out until Ai was destroyed. He didn't stop his obedience until the job was completely finished.
Application:
Sometimes the weight of carrying the spear can get heavy, but when God speaks to us, we need to fully complete the task we are given. We don't know if the Lord said to hold it out until the job was finished, it just says he was to hold out his spear. Joshua then held it out until everything was finished. He made sure he obeyed the Lord completely. He finished the task he was given with wholeheartedness.
Prayer:
Father, help me to finish the works you have given me to do. Help me to be a person who finishes what You start. Help me not to quit too early, but to finish what You start in my life. Enable me to lift the spear until You are finished defeating my enemies.
Yours,
Jeff
Joshua 8:18, 26 "The the Lord said to Joshua, 'Point the spear in your hand toward Ai, for I will hand the town over to you'. Joshua did as he was commanded... For Joshua kept holding out his spear until everyone who had lived in Ai was completely destroyed."
Observation:
Ai had just defeated Israel when Israel attacked them because Achan had stolen some items that belonged to the Lord. When that was cleared up, Joshua led them back to Ai, this time ready for battle. As they approached, the Lord said to Joshua that he should lift his spear toward Ai. Joshua lifted it and kept holding it out until Ai was destroyed. He didn't stop his obedience until the job was completely finished.
Application:
Sometimes the weight of carrying the spear can get heavy, but when God speaks to us, we need to fully complete the task we are given. We don't know if the Lord said to hold it out until the job was finished, it just says he was to hold out his spear. Joshua then held it out until everything was finished. He made sure he obeyed the Lord completely. He finished the task he was given with wholeheartedness.
Prayer:
Father, help me to finish the works you have given me to do. Help me to be a person who finishes what You start. Help me not to quit too early, but to finish what You start in my life. Enable me to lift the spear until You are finished defeating my enemies.
Yours,
Jeff
Friday, April 6, 2018
Don't Bring Trouble
Scripture:
Joshua 6:18 "Do not take any of the things set apart for destruction, or you yourselves will be completely destroyed, and you will bring trouble on the camp of Israel."
Observation:
God always makes covenants with His people. Here He tells them not to take any plunder from Jericho when He gives it into their hands. He tells them to destroy everything and then the valuable things would go to God. He wanted it all. Here the Lord reminds them not to keep any for themselves, and if they profited personally from this, He would bring trouble on their camp.
Application:
We can't have what belongs to the Lord. He does ask for certain things from His people. He wants us to follow Him with all our heart, soul, mind and strength. When He says not to touch something, we shouldn't touch it. When we honor Him, our lives are blessed. When we dishonor Him, our lives will always have trouble. If God says He wants something, we must respond.
Prayer:
Father, thank you for showing me this today. I want to walk in obedience to your word and your Spirit. I want to live a life that You can bless. Help me to live according to Your ways. Show me day by day what you want for my life and I will say yes.
Yours,
Jeff
Joshua 6:18 "Do not take any of the things set apart for destruction, or you yourselves will be completely destroyed, and you will bring trouble on the camp of Israel."
Observation:
God always makes covenants with His people. Here He tells them not to take any plunder from Jericho when He gives it into their hands. He tells them to destroy everything and then the valuable things would go to God. He wanted it all. Here the Lord reminds them not to keep any for themselves, and if they profited personally from this, He would bring trouble on their camp.
Application:
We can't have what belongs to the Lord. He does ask for certain things from His people. He wants us to follow Him with all our heart, soul, mind and strength. When He says not to touch something, we shouldn't touch it. When we honor Him, our lives are blessed. When we dishonor Him, our lives will always have trouble. If God says He wants something, we must respond.
Prayer:
Father, thank you for showing me this today. I want to walk in obedience to your word and your Spirit. I want to live a life that You can bless. Help me to live according to Your ways. Show me day by day what you want for my life and I will say yes.
Yours,
Jeff
Thursday, April 5, 2018
Leadership
Scripture:
Joshua 3:7 "The Lord told Joshua, 'Today I will begin to make you a great leader in the eyes of all the Israelites. They will know that I am with you, just as I was with Moses.'"
Observation:
Moses had died and he did the best he could to prepare Joshua and the people for Joshua's leadership of Israel. At this point, the Lord steps up and lets Joshua know that He was going to make a great leader of Joshua in the eyes of the people. Moses had done his part in preparing Joshua, but Joshua also needed God to raise him up in the eyes of the people.
Application:
In Christian leadership, we can prepare, work, study, and do everything we possibly can to become better leaders, but God must always remain the center. He is the one who has the ability to raise us up in a moment. Leaders arise out of bad situations and sometimes God may stir things up a little so your leadership can develop. In Christian leadership, we need to do our part, but also know that God ultimately raises up leaders.
Prayer:
Lord, make me the leader I need to be in order to accomplish what You want me to accomplish. Teach me to lead well. Help me to walk in a way that pleases You above all. You know what's best and I submit to You. I am doing my part in preparation, now I surrender to You.
Yours,
Jeff
Joshua 3:7 "The Lord told Joshua, 'Today I will begin to make you a great leader in the eyes of all the Israelites. They will know that I am with you, just as I was with Moses.'"
Observation:
Moses had died and he did the best he could to prepare Joshua and the people for Joshua's leadership of Israel. At this point, the Lord steps up and lets Joshua know that He was going to make a great leader of Joshua in the eyes of the people. Moses had done his part in preparing Joshua, but Joshua also needed God to raise him up in the eyes of the people.
Application:
In Christian leadership, we can prepare, work, study, and do everything we possibly can to become better leaders, but God must always remain the center. He is the one who has the ability to raise us up in a moment. Leaders arise out of bad situations and sometimes God may stir things up a little so your leadership can develop. In Christian leadership, we need to do our part, but also know that God ultimately raises up leaders.
Prayer:
Lord, make me the leader I need to be in order to accomplish what You want me to accomplish. Teach me to lead well. Help me to walk in a way that pleases You above all. You know what's best and I submit to You. I am doing my part in preparation, now I surrender to You.
Yours,
Jeff
Wednesday, April 4, 2018
Locked Doors
Scripture:
John 20:19 "That Sunday evening the disciples were meeting behind locked doors because they were afraid of the Jewish leaders. Suddenly, Jesus was standing there among them! 'Peace be with you,' he said."
Observation:
The disciples were together in a place with the doors locked and suddenly, the resurrected Jesus was right there with them. He didn't need a key to open the door. He just appeared, breaking the laws of physics and of the natural world.
Application:
As I was reading this morning, I realized that Jesus doesn't need open doors to walk through. We always pray that God will open doors and close doors, and it is accurate because Revelation talks about door being opened and closed. What I'm getting this morning is that, even when the doors are closed, Jesus can show up anywhere, any time. He doesn't need the doors to be opened. I need to invite Jesus into everything I am doing. He is above the laws of nature and physics. He can walk through closed doors. What seems closed, may not be closed for Jesus.
Prayer:
Lord, let me walk in greater faith today. Help me to follow You completely. Teach me You ways. Walk into every part of my life, the opened and the closed areas. More than anything God, let Your kingdom come and Your will be done in my life.
John 20:19 "That Sunday evening the disciples were meeting behind locked doors because they were afraid of the Jewish leaders. Suddenly, Jesus was standing there among them! 'Peace be with you,' he said."
Observation:
The disciples were together in a place with the doors locked and suddenly, the resurrected Jesus was right there with them. He didn't need a key to open the door. He just appeared, breaking the laws of physics and of the natural world.
Application:
As I was reading this morning, I realized that Jesus doesn't need open doors to walk through. We always pray that God will open doors and close doors, and it is accurate because Revelation talks about door being opened and closed. What I'm getting this morning is that, even when the doors are closed, Jesus can show up anywhere, any time. He doesn't need the doors to be opened. I need to invite Jesus into everything I am doing. He is above the laws of nature and physics. He can walk through closed doors. What seems closed, may not be closed for Jesus.
Prayer:
Lord, let me walk in greater faith today. Help me to follow You completely. Teach me You ways. Walk into every part of my life, the opened and the closed areas. More than anything God, let Your kingdom come and Your will be done in my life.
Tuesday, April 3, 2018
The Power of Jesus
Scripture:
John 18:6 "As Jesus said, I AM he, they all drew back and fell to the ground!"
Observation:
Jesus was ready to be arrested. Judas had betrayed Him into the hands of those who wanted Him killed. There was a contingent of Roman soldiers and Temple guards there to arrest Him. When they asked if He was Jesus, he said, "I AM". When he said that, they were all thrown to the ground in front of Him.
Application:
Jesus could have wiped this entire group out with a single word. Just by saying I AM, they all fell on the ground. I'm sure they were totally afraid of Him at this point. When the skeptics are falling out in the Spirit, you know there is serious power being released. Jesus willingly went with them instead of fighting for himself. We need to walk in the power of God, yet the love of God and the humility of Christ above all.
Prayer:
Father, let Your power work in my life. Help me to fulfill all You want me to do in my life time. I want to serve You well. Teach me to love and to walk in humility like Jesus did. Help me to submit to the will of God above all, like Jesus did. Help me to live more like Jesus every day.
Your Son,
Jeff
John 18:6 "As Jesus said, I AM he, they all drew back and fell to the ground!"
Observation:
Jesus was ready to be arrested. Judas had betrayed Him into the hands of those who wanted Him killed. There was a contingent of Roman soldiers and Temple guards there to arrest Him. When they asked if He was Jesus, he said, "I AM". When he said that, they were all thrown to the ground in front of Him.
Application:
Jesus could have wiped this entire group out with a single word. Just by saying I AM, they all fell on the ground. I'm sure they were totally afraid of Him at this point. When the skeptics are falling out in the Spirit, you know there is serious power being released. Jesus willingly went with them instead of fighting for himself. We need to walk in the power of God, yet the love of God and the humility of Christ above all.
Prayer:
Father, let Your power work in my life. Help me to fulfill all You want me to do in my life time. I want to serve You well. Teach me to love and to walk in humility like Jesus did. Help me to submit to the will of God above all, like Jesus did. Help me to live more like Jesus every day.
Your Son,
Jeff
Monday, April 2, 2018
Proof
Scripture:
John 13:35 "Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples."
Observation:
Jesus had been talking to his disciples about the Jewish leaders and how they were going to come against him and kill him. He tells them in verse 34 "So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other".
Application:
Jesus gives His disciples a new commandment and then tells them that obedience to this one commandment will prove whether they are His disciples or not. The proof is in the obedience to this one command. He says if we love one another well, it will prove to the world we are his disciples. We must learn to love what God loves and hate what God hates.
Prayer:
Lord, let Your love flow through my life. Help me to love well. Let Your Spirit flow freely through my life so that all may feel Your love. Help me to love those who are easy to love as well as those who are hard to love. I see how You loved Judas when You knew he would betray you. Help me to love Your people well.
Yours,
Jeff
John 13:35 "Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples."
Observation:
Jesus had been talking to his disciples about the Jewish leaders and how they were going to come against him and kill him. He tells them in verse 34 "So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other".
Application:
Jesus gives His disciples a new commandment and then tells them that obedience to this one commandment will prove whether they are His disciples or not. The proof is in the obedience to this one command. He says if we love one another well, it will prove to the world we are his disciples. We must learn to love what God loves and hate what God hates.
Prayer:
Lord, let Your love flow through my life. Help me to love well. Let Your Spirit flow freely through my life so that all may feel Your love. Help me to love those who are easy to love as well as those who are hard to love. I see how You loved Judas when You knew he would betray you. Help me to love Your people well.
Yours,
Jeff
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