Scripture:
“Yet through his powerful declaration of acquittal, God freely gives away his righteousness. His gift of love and favor now cascades over us, all because Jesus, the Anointed One, has liberated us from the guilt, punishment, and power of sin!”
Romans 3:24 TPT
Observation:
Paul tells the Romans here that the works of the Law will never be able to save us, but that the grace of God. Rather than working to be righteous, Paul says that God freely gives away his righteousness and all because Jesus has liberated us from the guilt, punishment and power of sin. I see here that it is all because of Jesus and not my own works.
Application:
My faith is in the works of Jesus and not my own. Knowing I would never be able to be good enough to deserve to be declared righteous, Jesus did it for me. He has liberated me from guilt, punishment and the power of sin. It is not by my works, but by the incredible gift of God that I have right-standing with God. I should live a life of absolute thankfulness to Christ who paid the price for me.
Prayer:
Lord, let Your love and grace flow through my life. Thank you for setting me free from the power of the sin and the punishment of sin. Thank you for doing all the work for my salvation. Now live through me and let my life bring Your glory. Let my life shine Your light for the world to see. Help me to live thankful each day for the gift of grace.
Yours,
Jeff
Tuesday, April 30, 2019
Monday, April 29, 2019
The Prayer You Don’t Want to Pray
Scripture:
“Now the people went to Bethel and sat in the presence of God until evening, weeping loudly and bitterly. “O Lord, God of Israel,” they cried out, “why has this happened in Israel? Now one of our tribes is missing from Israel!””
Judges 21:2-3 NLT
Observation:
In the times of the Judges, Israel did what was right in their own eyes instead of wholeheartedly following the Lord. When things went bad, they would cry out to the Lord and He would hear their cry. Here, the response of the people was right, but it shouldn’t have had to go that far before they cried out to the Lord.
Application:
Sometimes God is our last resort, when He should be the first place we run. Instead of running to Him early, we wait until the situation is out of control or something terrible has happened. If we should cry out to the Lord before the problems hit hard, maybe it wouldn’t get so bad. I need to learnt to cry out to God before the problems get too bad.
Prayer:
Father, help me to walk with You and live a submitted life. Help me not to wait until the situations of life are in a terrible place before crying out to You. You are my life and my salvation. Guide me on the right path and let my heart always be right with You. Teach me to cry out early instead of letting things go too far.
Yours,
Jeff
“Now the people went to Bethel and sat in the presence of God until evening, weeping loudly and bitterly. “O Lord, God of Israel,” they cried out, “why has this happened in Israel? Now one of our tribes is missing from Israel!””
Judges 21:2-3 NLT
Observation:
In the times of the Judges, Israel did what was right in their own eyes instead of wholeheartedly following the Lord. When things went bad, they would cry out to the Lord and He would hear their cry. Here, the response of the people was right, but it shouldn’t have had to go that far before they cried out to the Lord.
Application:
Sometimes God is our last resort, when He should be the first place we run. Instead of running to Him early, we wait until the situation is out of control or something terrible has happened. If we should cry out to the Lord before the problems hit hard, maybe it wouldn’t get so bad. I need to learnt to cry out to God before the problems get too bad.
Prayer:
Father, help me to walk with You and live a submitted life. Help me not to wait until the situations of life are in a terrible place before crying out to You. You are my life and my salvation. Guide me on the right path and let my heart always be right with You. Teach me to cry out early instead of letting things go too far.
Yours,
Jeff
Saturday, April 27, 2019
Springs for the Thirsty
Scripture:
“So God caused water to gush out of a hollow in the ground at Lehi, and Samson was revived as he drank. Then he named that place “The Spring of the One Who Cried Out,” and it is still in Lehi to this day.”
Judges 15:19 NLT
Observation:
Samson had just defeated 1000 Philistines with the jawbone of a donkey. He was tired and thirsty and cried out to God saying he would die of thirst. God caused water to gush out of a hollow in the ground at Lehi and Samson named it “The Spring of the One Who Cried Out”. The spring kept on flowing even after Samson was filled.
Application:
Jesus said that He would cause a river of life to flow out of us. He promised it would spring up into everlasting life. In this story, we see that the spring came to the one who cried out from thirst. I have always felt that God is moved toward the thirsty and then hungry. When we are hungry and thirsty in spiritually, we will be filled. At times in my life, I have had incredible thirst for the things of God and I have always been filled in this times. I don’t know why the hunger and thirst wanes, but I want to live thirsty for a move of God. I want to live hungry to see GOd flow at increasing levels.
Prayer:
Father, Let Your refreshing Spring be opened up. I am thirsty for a move of God. I am hungry for more of You in my life. Let my life pour out life giving water to those who are thirsty. Help me to continue to cry out to You for more of Your Spirit and to never be satisfied.
Yours,
Jeff
“So God caused water to gush out of a hollow in the ground at Lehi, and Samson was revived as he drank. Then he named that place “The Spring of the One Who Cried Out,” and it is still in Lehi to this day.”
Judges 15:19 NLT
Observation:
Samson had just defeated 1000 Philistines with the jawbone of a donkey. He was tired and thirsty and cried out to God saying he would die of thirst. God caused water to gush out of a hollow in the ground at Lehi and Samson named it “The Spring of the One Who Cried Out”. The spring kept on flowing even after Samson was filled.
Application:
Jesus said that He would cause a river of life to flow out of us. He promised it would spring up into everlasting life. In this story, we see that the spring came to the one who cried out from thirst. I have always felt that God is moved toward the thirsty and then hungry. When we are hungry and thirsty in spiritually, we will be filled. At times in my life, I have had incredible thirst for the things of God and I have always been filled in this times. I don’t know why the hunger and thirst wanes, but I want to live thirsty for a move of God. I want to live hungry to see GOd flow at increasing levels.
Prayer:
Father, Let Your refreshing Spring be opened up. I am thirsty for a move of God. I am hungry for more of You in my life. Let my life pour out life giving water to those who are thirsty. Help me to continue to cry out to You for more of Your Spirit and to never be satisfied.
Yours,
Jeff
Wednesday, April 24, 2019
Clothed With Power
Scripture:
“Then the Spirit of the Lord clothed Gideon with power. He blew a ram’s horn as a call to arms, and the men of the clan of Abiezer came to him.”
Judges 6:34 NLT
Observation:
I love descriptions like this one. It says that the Spirit of the Lord “clothed” Gideon with power. He had devoted himself to the Lord and had proven he was willing to risk his life in service to the Lord by tearing down his own father’s images of Baal. Now, when he was going to be used by God to deliver his people, the Lord clothed him with power.
Application:
As New Testament Christians, we have the Holy Spirit clothing us with power at all times instead of only one in a while when needed. There was a marked difference in Gideon that people could see when he was clothed with power. I want a live a life that is clothed with God’s power. I want God to flow through my life. I see no reason as a NT believer, that I shouldn’t be clothed with power from on High at all times. I want that in my life.
Prayer:
Father. Cloth me with Your power to see captives released. Let me see that day of Your salvation at a much larger scale. I want to see revival in my day. I want to see the day of Your glory being manifested in the earth. Help me to align myself more and more to You. Teach me whatever I need to know. Help me to yield more and more of myself to You.
Yours,
Jeff
“Then the Spirit of the Lord clothed Gideon with power. He blew a ram’s horn as a call to arms, and the men of the clan of Abiezer came to him.”
Judges 6:34 NLT
Observation:
I love descriptions like this one. It says that the Spirit of the Lord “clothed” Gideon with power. He had devoted himself to the Lord and had proven he was willing to risk his life in service to the Lord by tearing down his own father’s images of Baal. Now, when he was going to be used by God to deliver his people, the Lord clothed him with power.
Application:
As New Testament Christians, we have the Holy Spirit clothing us with power at all times instead of only one in a while when needed. There was a marked difference in Gideon that people could see when he was clothed with power. I want a live a life that is clothed with God’s power. I want God to flow through my life. I see no reason as a NT believer, that I shouldn’t be clothed with power from on High at all times. I want that in my life.
Prayer:
Father. Cloth me with Your power to see captives released. Let me see that day of Your salvation at a much larger scale. I want to see revival in my day. I want to see the day of Your glory being manifested in the earth. Help me to align myself more and more to You. Teach me whatever I need to know. Help me to yield more and more of myself to You.
Yours,
Jeff
Tuesday, April 23, 2019
Those Who Had Seen
Scripture:
“And the Israelites served the Lord throughout the lifetime of Joshua and the leaders who outlived him—those who had seen all the great things the Lord had done for Israel.”
Judges 2:7 NLT
Observation:
The Israelites who had seen the hand of God and the power of God served Him all of their lives, but the next generation, who had not witnessed the power of God, served other gods. Those who have had a real power encounter with God and seen Him generally serve Him all of their lives, but if their kids don’t see God move, they will fall away.
Application:
Each generation needs a move of God. Each generation needs to see the hand of God and the power of God or they will stray away. America has had a couple great awakenings, where God’s power moved mightily throughout the nation. Those generations turned to the Lord, but eventually the spiritual fervor moved out and people began to compromise with the enemy. Our generation needs a powerful move of God that will shake people to their core. We need another great awakening.
Prayer:
Father, pour out Your Spirit in the United States. Let this generation see Your great and awesome power. Demonstrate Your goodness and Your strength until the world sees who You are and serve You completely. I ask You to work in and through my life. Let people truly encounter You and never walk away.
Your Son,
Jeff
Monday, April 22, 2019
Destined
Scripture:
“For God’s angel visited me last night, the angel of my God, the God I passionately serve. He came and stood in front of me and said, ‘Don’t be afraid, Paul. You are destined to stand trial before Caesar. And because of God’s favor on you, he has given you the lives of everyone who is sailing with you.’”
Acts 27:23-24 TPT
Observation:
When Paul was on his way to Rome to stand before Caesar, his ship was being torn apart by a terrible storm and everyone was panicking. He told them to calm down because and anger had visited him at night and said, “don’t be afraid, Paul. You are destined to stand trial before Caesar.” The angel went on to say that he and everyone on the ship would be safe.
Application:
God had spoken over and over to Paul and those around him that he would go to Rome. It was a matter of destiny. He knew it and didn’t even resist it because he knew it was God’s doing. The confirmation from the angel lets me know that when God has destined something for one of His children, no matter what storms come, they will make it through and fulfill their destiny. Our trust must be in God, who will bring our destiny to pass.
Prayer:
Father, you have spoken many things over my life. When storms come and go, help me to walk confidently into the destiny You have arranged for me. I know the days of my life are all written in Your book. Help me to stay on course and finish Your will and destiny for my life. When all is said and done, I simply want to finish every assignment You have for me.
Your Son,
Jeff
“For God’s angel visited me last night, the angel of my God, the God I passionately serve. He came and stood in front of me and said, ‘Don’t be afraid, Paul. You are destined to stand trial before Caesar. And because of God’s favor on you, he has given you the lives of everyone who is sailing with you.’”
Acts 27:23-24 TPT
Observation:
When Paul was on his way to Rome to stand before Caesar, his ship was being torn apart by a terrible storm and everyone was panicking. He told them to calm down because and anger had visited him at night and said, “don’t be afraid, Paul. You are destined to stand trial before Caesar.” The angel went on to say that he and everyone on the ship would be safe.
Application:
God had spoken over and over to Paul and those around him that he would go to Rome. It was a matter of destiny. He knew it and didn’t even resist it because he knew it was God’s doing. The confirmation from the angel lets me know that when God has destined something for one of His children, no matter what storms come, they will make it through and fulfill their destiny. Our trust must be in God, who will bring our destiny to pass.
Prayer:
Father, you have spoken many things over my life. When storms come and go, help me to walk confidently into the destiny You have arranged for me. I know the days of my life are all written in Your book. Help me to stay on course and finish Your will and destiny for my life. When all is said and done, I simply want to finish every assignment You have for me.
Your Son,
Jeff
Saturday, April 20, 2019
A Clear Conscience
Scripture:
“That’s why I seek with all my heart to have a clean conscience toward God and toward others.”
Acts 24:16 TPT
Observation:
Paul was standing trial before Felix and in his defense he said this one line that spoke to me this morning. He was defending his actions and said, “I seek with all my heart to have a clean conscience toward God and others”. This is a powerful statement and one that should be said of us as well.
Application:
I want to have a clean conscience before God and men. I always told my sons growing up that living with a clean conscience is awesome because you don’t have to worry about getting caught doing something or caught in a lie, etc. A clean conscience is powerful because it saved you a lot of stress and anxiety. When you are living with a clean conscience, you have nothing to worry about because you know you haven’t done anything that would get you in trouble.
Prayer:
Father, I want to live life with a clean conscience and a pure heart. I want to live a life that pleases You above all. Help me to make right decisions and to always do the right thing at all times. Help me to live a life such that those who know me best, respect me most.
Yours,
Jeff
“That’s why I seek with all my heart to have a clean conscience toward God and toward others.”
Acts 24:16 TPT
Observation:
Paul was standing trial before Felix and in his defense he said this one line that spoke to me this morning. He was defending his actions and said, “I seek with all my heart to have a clean conscience toward God and others”. This is a powerful statement and one that should be said of us as well.
Application:
I want to have a clean conscience before God and men. I always told my sons growing up that living with a clean conscience is awesome because you don’t have to worry about getting caught doing something or caught in a lie, etc. A clean conscience is powerful because it saved you a lot of stress and anxiety. When you are living with a clean conscience, you have nothing to worry about because you know you haven’t done anything that would get you in trouble.
Prayer:
Father, I want to live life with a clean conscience and a pure heart. I want to live a life that pleases You above all. Help me to make right decisions and to always do the right thing at all times. Help me to live a life such that those who know me best, respect me most.
Yours,
Jeff
Friday, April 19, 2019
Greatly Impacted
Scripture:
“The power of God caused the word to spread, and the people were greatly impacted.”
Acts 19:20 TPT
Observation:
Here in Acts we here about the ministry of Paul as he travelled on his missionary journeys. I am drawn to this verse in the Passion Version because it demonstrates the how the Gospel advances best in the Kingdom. It is the power of God that caused the word to spread, not man’s doing. People being impacted was the other part of the spread and growth of the Gospel.
Application:
I am longing to see more of the power of God in my life and ministry. I want to see lives “greatly impacted” by the Gospel. I don’t want to do church because it is the thing to do, I want to see lives dramatically impacted by the Good News of Jesus. I want to see a place that is filled with the power of God where lives are forever changed because they Encounter Christ, Engage in Growth and Extend the Kingdom.
Prayer:
Father, move powerfully in my life and in the lives of the people at Word of Life. Let the word spread in my region that there is a powerful God working and people’s lives are being greatly impacted. Let lives be changed for Your glory. I long to see You move stronger and stronger in my region.
Yours,
Jeff
“The power of God caused the word to spread, and the people were greatly impacted.”
Acts 19:20 TPT
Observation:
Here in Acts we here about the ministry of Paul as he travelled on his missionary journeys. I am drawn to this verse in the Passion Version because it demonstrates the how the Gospel advances best in the Kingdom. It is the power of God that caused the word to spread, not man’s doing. People being impacted was the other part of the spread and growth of the Gospel.
Application:
I am longing to see more of the power of God in my life and ministry. I want to see lives “greatly impacted” by the Gospel. I don’t want to do church because it is the thing to do, I want to see lives dramatically impacted by the Good News of Jesus. I want to see a place that is filled with the power of God where lives are forever changed because they Encounter Christ, Engage in Growth and Extend the Kingdom.
Prayer:
Father, move powerfully in my life and in the lives of the people at Word of Life. Let the word spread in my region that there is a powerful God working and people’s lives are being greatly impacted. Let lives be changed for Your glory. I long to see You move stronger and stronger in my region.
Yours,
Jeff
Thursday, April 18, 2019
Don’t Ever Be Afraid
Scripture:
“One night, the Lord spoke to Paul in a supernatural vision and said, “Don’t ever be afraid. Speak the words that I give you and don’t be intimidated,”
Acts 18:9 TPT
Observation:
God have Paul a supernatural vision and told him to never be afraid, but to speak the words God gave him and not to be intimidated by anyone or anything. Many times in Scripture we see people being told not to fear, but to be bold. Fear is a great limiter and hinderance in our lives.
Application:
We should never be afraid of working for Christ and speaking on His behalf. The next verse tells Paul that God was with him wherever he went. Our confidence is not in our abilities, but in the GOd we serve. He is able to work on our behalf and we can trust Him to take care of us, no matter what people do or say. Our trust must be in Him and Him alone. When we get that right, we will not fear what man can do to us.
Prayer:
Lord God Almighty, help me to walk with You in confidence and not to fear what man can do to me or say about me. Help me to never fear the opinions of man, but to have a healthy fear of God. You have always been faithful to me, help me to trust You more in this area. You have always had my back. Help me to believe that more and more.
Yours,
Jeff
Wednesday, April 17, 2019
The Holy Spirit Said
Scripture:
“While they were worshiping as priests before the Lord in prayer and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “I have called Barnabas and Saul to do an important work for me. Now, release them to go and fulfill it.””
Acts 13:2 TPT
Observation:
This verse tells us that God’s leadership team was praying and fasting, then the Holy Spirit spoke to them about Paul and Barnabus and what He wanted them to do. I have always wondered in the Holy Spirit spoke through a person, a unified desire or feeling, or that He spoke clearly for all to understand. It never says, it just says, “The Holy Spirit said”.
Application:
I get jealous when I read Scriptures like this. It “seems” like the Holy Spirit spoke extremely clearly to them and gave them direction. I want to walk in that level of communion with the Holy Spirit. I long to hear His voice like I hear my wife’s voice. I want to be so tuned in to His voice that I know exactly what He wants to do at all times.
Prayer:
Holy Spirit, speak to me more and more. I long to hear Your words and I will obey whatever You tell me. Help me to tune in and receive clearer revelation each day. I long to have staff meetings where we can all clearly say, “The Holy Spirit said” do this, go there, plant a church there, etc. I don’t want to see through a glass darkly, I want to see and hear face to face.
Yours,
Jeff
Tuesday, April 16, 2019
Just As it Did on Us
Scripture:
““Shortly after I began to speak, the Holy Spirit was poured out upon them, just like what happened to us at the beginning.”
Acts 11:15 TPT
Observation:
At the home of Cornelius, Peter was preaching and telling them the Good News of Christ. While he was speaking, the Holy Spirit was poured out on them. Peter described it as being “just like what happened to us at the beginning.”
Application:
I realize both incidents were involved in the beginning of something. The outpouring on Pentecost was the original outpouring of the Spirit on the Jewish church and Cornelius’ house was the original outpouring on Gentiles, but I long for the day when the Holy Spirit falls on those I am speaking to and fills people while I’m speaking. I long for the power of the Spirit to fall on people this weekend at our Resurrection Sunday services.
Prayer:
Father, pour out Your Spirit in my region. Pour out Your Spirit in the church I pastor. Let Your Spirit pour out while I’m speaking. Let people know that it is You and not a speaker. Come and fill Your people to overflowing. Come and baptize Your bride at Word of Life. Come Holy Spirit and fall on our church.
Your Son,
Jeff
Monday, April 15, 2019
God Uses People with a Past
Scripture:
“The Lord Yahweh answered him, “Arise and go! I have chosen this man to be my special messenger. He will be brought before kings, before many nations, and before the Jewish people to give them the revelation of who I am.”
Acts 9:15 TPT
Observation:
Ananias was told by the Lord to go to Saul, who was a perecutor of the Church, and speak to him and give him a message from the Lord. The Lord said to Ananias, “I have chosen this man to be my special messenger.” Ananias knew Saul as a murdered of the Church, but God said He had chosen him to be a special messenger.
Application:
We can never give up on those who are not serving God. They may be the next Saul of Tarsus. This persecutor of the Church ended up planting churches all over the place and writing 2/3 of the New Testament. He was God’s chosen messenger, but most of us wouldn’t have wanted to be anywhere near him when God grabbed his life. We can never judge a person based not their past.
Prayer:
Father, help me to see in people what You see in people. Teach me to see what You are doing and to hear what You are speaking. Help me to never give up on someone You have chosen because I see them differently than You do. Empower my life to reach hard cases.
Your Son,
Jeff
“The Lord Yahweh answered him, “Arise and go! I have chosen this man to be my special messenger. He will be brought before kings, before many nations, and before the Jewish people to give them the revelation of who I am.”
Acts 9:15 TPT
Observation:
Ananias was told by the Lord to go to Saul, who was a perecutor of the Church, and speak to him and give him a message from the Lord. The Lord said to Ananias, “I have chosen this man to be my special messenger.” Ananias knew Saul as a murdered of the Church, but God said He had chosen him to be a special messenger.
Application:
We can never give up on those who are not serving God. They may be the next Saul of Tarsus. This persecutor of the Church ended up planting churches all over the place and writing 2/3 of the New Testament. He was God’s chosen messenger, but most of us wouldn’t have wanted to be anywhere near him when God grabbed his life. We can never judge a person based not their past.
Prayer:
Father, help me to see in people what You see in people. Teach me to see what You are doing and to hear what You are speaking. Help me to never give up on someone You have chosen because I see them differently than You do. Empower my life to reach hard cases.
Your Son,
Jeff
Sunday, April 14, 2019
More and More People
Scripture:
“Continually more and more people believed in the Lord and were added to their number—great crowds of both men and women.”
Acts 5:14 TPT
Observation:
This verse tells us about the growth of the early church just after the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. Once the outpouring happened, more and more people believed in the Lord - great crowds of men and women believed. As the church proclaimed the resurrection of Christ, it grew quickly and powerfully.
Application:
I long to see our church continually growing as more and more people are coming to Christ and being added to the Church. I want the Holy Spirit to fill the people of Word of Life completely and use them to advance the Kingdom around the world. I want to personally lead more and more people to Christ in my life. I desire to see the nations worshipping Jesus.
Prayer:
Father, fill me to overflowing with Your Spirit. Help me to be a courageous witness for You. Empower my life to lead more and more people to Jesus. Let my heart be consumed with the extension of Your Kingdom in all the earth. Bless our missions convention this weekend and let Word of Life do more and more for Your Kingdom.
Yours,
Jeff
“Continually more and more people believed in the Lord and were added to their number—great crowds of both men and women.”
Acts 5:14 TPT
Observation:
This verse tells us about the growth of the early church just after the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. Once the outpouring happened, more and more people believed in the Lord - great crowds of men and women believed. As the church proclaimed the resurrection of Christ, it grew quickly and powerfully.
Application:
I long to see our church continually growing as more and more people are coming to Christ and being added to the Church. I want the Holy Spirit to fill the people of Word of Life completely and use them to advance the Kingdom around the world. I want to personally lead more and more people to Christ in my life. I desire to see the nations worshipping Jesus.
Prayer:
Father, fill me to overflowing with Your Spirit. Help me to be a courageous witness for You. Empower my life to lead more and more people to Jesus. Let my heart be consumed with the extension of Your Kingdom in all the earth. Bless our missions convention this weekend and let Word of Life do more and more for Your Kingdom.
Yours,
Jeff
Saturday, April 13, 2019
No Power is Greater
Scripture:
“God destroyed the cords of death and raised him up, because it was impossible for death’s power to hold him prisoner.”
Acts 2:24 TPT
Observation:
Peter was preaching after the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost and he said that God destroyed the cords of death and raised Jesus up. He said it was impossible for death’s power to hold Jesus prisoner. Even death’s power was not powerful enough to hold Jesus. Nothing, including death, can stop what Jesus wants to do.
Application:
If God raised Jesus from the dead after three days, what is He incapable of doing? What is too difficult for God? If death could’no hold Him prisoner, then the issues of our lives can’t hold us prisoner either. Our faith cannot be in ourselves or others, but in His mighty power. He can do whatever is necessary to change my situation. All authority is His and all power is His. We serve the all-powerful God who cannot be defeated, even with death.
Prayer:
Lord, increase my faith in You more and more. Help me to walk with You daily and to hear Your voice at a greater level. Help me to never give up too early on what You want in my life. You bring people back, even from the grave. Nothing can stop You. Help me to see that more clearly every day.
Your Son,
Jeff
Friday, April 12, 2019
Personal Experience
Scripture:
“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.”
Joshua 24:31 NLT
Observation:
This Scripture is a strong reminder that we are always one generation away from people not really knowing the Lord. This verse tells me that all who had “personally experienced” all that the Lord had done remained serving Him. It was possible to grow up in Israel and be trained from a child in the Law, but to not personally experience Him. We need a move of God in every generation where the next generation can experience God.
Application:
Personally experience is not something we can use to build doctrines on, but it is crucial in the life of every believer. Every believer needs to have a personal experience with the Lord. If not, it will fade away and the next generation won’t see that God is God. Every person needs an encounter with God where their remains no doubt about their faith.
Prayer:
Father, I don’t want to build a ministry on experiences, but I do want everyone I speak to in any context to have an experience with You. I want people to know without any doubt or question that You are real. I want the demonstration of Your power everywhere I preach or teach. I want people not just to know Your word, but to know You personally. Work with me to make that happen.
Your Son,
Jeff
“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.”
Joshua 24:31 NLT
Observation:
This Scripture is a strong reminder that we are always one generation away from people not really knowing the Lord. This verse tells me that all who had “personally experienced” all that the Lord had done remained serving Him. It was possible to grow up in Israel and be trained from a child in the Law, but to not personally experience Him. We need a move of God in every generation where the next generation can experience God.
Application:
Personally experience is not something we can use to build doctrines on, but it is crucial in the life of every believer. Every believer needs to have a personal experience with the Lord. If not, it will fade away and the next generation won’t see that God is God. Every person needs an encounter with God where their remains no doubt about their faith.
Prayer:
Father, I don’t want to build a ministry on experiences, but I do want everyone I speak to in any context to have an experience with You. I want people to know without any doubt or question that You are real. I want the demonstration of Your power everywhere I preach or teach. I want people not just to know Your word, but to know You personally. Work with me to make that happen.
Your Son,
Jeff
Thursday, April 11, 2019
All of God’s Promises
Scripture:
“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.”
Joshua 21:45 NLT
Observation:
When the people of Israel came into their Promised Land, God fulfilled every one of His promises. Everyone got their allotment of land and everything He had spoken in the Wilderness came to pass exactly as He said. God is trustworthy! He is faithful to do what He says He will do!
Application:
God does what He says He is going to do. We can be confident in that. When He speaks.. it will come to pass. The problem is usually that His promises are conditional and we must do our part in order for Him to do His. We can’t claim God’s promises and not walk in obedience to Him. The children of Israel got everything He promised, but it was delayed by forty years because of disobedience.
Prayer:
Father, help me to to live by faith and to trust that You will do what You said You will do. Teach me to trust You more. Eliminate all areas of disobedience in my life and let me live a life that you can bless in every way. Bless our missions convention this weekend. Let us see Your faithfulness as we step out to increase our missions giving.
Your Son,
Jeff
“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.”
Joshua 21:45 NLT
Observation:
When the people of Israel came into their Promised Land, God fulfilled every one of His promises. Everyone got their allotment of land and everything He had spoken in the Wilderness came to pass exactly as He said. God is trustworthy! He is faithful to do what He says He will do!
Application:
God does what He says He is going to do. We can be confident in that. When He speaks.. it will come to pass. The problem is usually that His promises are conditional and we must do our part in order for Him to do His. We can’t claim God’s promises and not walk in obedience to Him. The children of Israel got everything He promised, but it was delayed by forty years because of disobedience.
Prayer:
Father, help me to to live by faith and to trust that You will do what You said You will do. Teach me to trust You more. Eliminate all areas of disobedience in my life and let me live a life that you can bless in every way. Bless our missions convention this weekend. Let us see Your faithfulness as we step out to increase our missions giving.
Your Son,
Jeff
Wednesday, April 10, 2019
The Blessing of Hard Work
Scripture:
“The next allotment of land was given to the half-tribe of Manasseh, the descendants of Joseph’s older son. Makir, the firstborn son of Manasseh, was the father of Gilead. Because his descendants were experienced soldiers, the regions of Gilead and Bashan on the east side of the Jordan had already been given to them.”
Joshua 17:1 NLT
Observation:
As the allotments of land were being given out to the people of Israel, Gilead and Basham were not even disputed but given to Gilead’s descendants because they were experienced soldiers and Joshua knew they could take care of themselves. They had worked hard at becoming strong soldiers, then when it was time to inherit the land, they got what they wanted because they were trained for it. Their training opened the doors for their inheritance.
Application:
We must not only pray for our Promised Land and our inheritance, we must prepare for it. We must get ourselves ready for what we are praying for. That may be through education, physical training, prayer, etc. but there is something to be said for good hard work. It produces results and builds confidence that you are ready for your inheritance.
Prayer:
Father, find me faithful to do what You want me to do. Teach me to be diligent in Your kingdom. Help me to be prepared for whatever You want to do in my life. Thank You for all You have done for me. Show me how. To be ready to inherit all You have called me into.. I am Yours.
Your Son,
Jeff
“The next allotment of land was given to the half-tribe of Manasseh, the descendants of Joseph’s older son. Makir, the firstborn son of Manasseh, was the father of Gilead. Because his descendants were experienced soldiers, the regions of Gilead and Bashan on the east side of the Jordan had already been given to them.”
Joshua 17:1 NLT
Observation:
As the allotments of land were being given out to the people of Israel, Gilead and Basham were not even disputed but given to Gilead’s descendants because they were experienced soldiers and Joshua knew they could take care of themselves. They had worked hard at becoming strong soldiers, then when it was time to inherit the land, they got what they wanted because they were trained for it. Their training opened the doors for their inheritance.
Application:
We must not only pray for our Promised Land and our inheritance, we must prepare for it. We must get ourselves ready for what we are praying for. That may be through education, physical training, prayer, etc. but there is something to be said for good hard work. It produces results and builds confidence that you are ready for your inheritance.
Prayer:
Father, find me faithful to do what You want me to do. Teach me to be diligent in Your kingdom. Help me to be prepared for whatever You want to do in my life. Thank You for all You have done for me. Show me how. To be ready to inherit all You have called me into.. I am Yours.
Your Son,
Jeff
Monday, April 8, 2019
When God Fights With You
Scripture:
“As the Amorites retreated down the road from Beth-horon, the Lord destroyed them with a terrible hailstorm from heaven that continued until they reached Azekah. The hail killed more of the enemy than the Israelites killed with the sword.”
Joshua 10:11 NLT
Observation:
Joshua and the people of Israel had come into the Promised Land and were defeating their enemies one after another. The Lord was fighting with them and they were a team. In this case, the Lord sent hail that killed more of the enemy army than the Israelites killed with the sword. God fought with Israel to accomplish His mission and purpose.
Application:
When we are doing what God wants us to do, He will fight alongside of us. When He fights any foe, it is an unfair fight. He will always defeat every enemy! His track record is incredible when He fight sa long with His people. The only time failure ever happened was when God’s people broke His covenant and didn’t do as He said. When they did as He said, they were undefeatable. I want God fighting on my side at all times.
Prayer:
Lord, teach me to walk with You and do Your will in every case. Help me to hear Your voice and do exactly what You are saying. Enable me to conquer every enemy and to fulfill Your plans and purposes for my life. Fight with me Lord.
Your Son and Servant,
Jeff
“As the Amorites retreated down the road from Beth-horon, the Lord destroyed them with a terrible hailstorm from heaven that continued until they reached Azekah. The hail killed more of the enemy than the Israelites killed with the sword.”
Joshua 10:11 NLT
Observation:
Joshua and the people of Israel had come into the Promised Land and were defeating their enemies one after another. The Lord was fighting with them and they were a team. In this case, the Lord sent hail that killed more of the enemy army than the Israelites killed with the sword. God fought with Israel to accomplish His mission and purpose.
Application:
When we are doing what God wants us to do, He will fight alongside of us. When He fights any foe, it is an unfair fight. He will always defeat every enemy! His track record is incredible when He fight sa long with His people. The only time failure ever happened was when God’s people broke His covenant and didn’t do as He said. When they did as He said, they were undefeatable. I want God fighting on my side at all times.
Prayer:
Lord, teach me to walk with You and do Your will in every case. Help me to hear Your voice and do exactly what You are saying. Enable me to conquer every enemy and to fulfill Your plans and purposes for my life. Fight with me Lord.
Your Son and Servant,
Jeff
Saturday, April 6, 2019
Ready for Battle
Scripture:
“These armed men—about 40,000 strong—were ready for battle, and the Lord was with them as they crossed over to the plains of Jericho.”
Joshua 4:13 NLT
Observation:
As Joshua and the people of Israel entered into the Promised Land, they came “ready for battle, and the Lord was with them.” After 40 years in the wilderness you wouldn’t think anyone should be ready for battle, but the children of Israel had 40,000 men armed and ready for battle. In this I see two ideas coninciding: 1. The people were ready. 2. God was with them. That is a powerful combination.
Application:
When it comes to winning victories in our lives, we need these two elements in order to win. We must be ready for battle. This requires personal training through studying the Word and prayer. It also requires God’s intervention. When you couple the two together, you will win every time. There is an element that is on us and there is an element that is all God. God can do it without us, but He gave us spiritual armor and expects us to put it on and be trained, then He will step in and help us achieve the victory.
Prayer:
Lord, teach me to be prepared at all times. Help me to always be in your word and prayer and listening to Your voice. Help me to be ready at all times, but to be totally dependent on You. You are my source and my strength. You are my victory. Help me to combine preparation and faith in God.
Yours,
Jeff
“These armed men—about 40,000 strong—were ready for battle, and the Lord was with them as they crossed over to the plains of Jericho.”
Joshua 4:13 NLT
Observation:
As Joshua and the people of Israel entered into the Promised Land, they came “ready for battle, and the Lord was with them.” After 40 years in the wilderness you wouldn’t think anyone should be ready for battle, but the children of Israel had 40,000 men armed and ready for battle. In this I see two ideas coninciding: 1. The people were ready. 2. God was with them. That is a powerful combination.
Application:
When it comes to winning victories in our lives, we need these two elements in order to win. We must be ready for battle. This requires personal training through studying the Word and prayer. It also requires God’s intervention. When you couple the two together, you will win every time. There is an element that is on us and there is an element that is all God. God can do it without us, but He gave us spiritual armor and expects us to put it on and be trained, then He will step in and help us achieve the victory.
Prayer:
Lord, teach me to be prepared at all times. Help me to always be in your word and prayer and listening to Your voice. Help me to be ready at all times, but to be totally dependent on You. You are my source and my strength. You are my victory. Help me to combine preparation and faith in God.
Yours,
Jeff
Friday, April 5, 2019
Fear and Discouragement
Scripture:
“This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.””
Joshua 1:9 NLT
Observation:
When God is telling Joshua that Moses is dead and he is the new leader of God’s people who will take them into the Promised Land, He also tells him not to be afraid or discouraged because God said He would be with Joshua wherever he went. Satan’s greatest tactics are fear and discouragement. Fear causes us not to move forward and possess the land and discouragement takes our courage away. If you are afraid and discouraged, Satan knows you won’t possess your Promises.
Application:
We have not been given a spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind. Whenever I sense fear and discouragement, I know I need to look at my faith. Do I believe God is with me wherever I go? Whenever I fear my next step, I must go back and ask the Lord if it is Him leading me. If it is, I can courageously walk forward, knowing that He is with me when I’m doing His will. Our confidence is in Him and not ourselves.
Prayer:
Father, help me to never walk in fear and discouragement. Teach me to walk by faith and not by sight. Help me to know You are with me at all times and that You will never leave me nor forsake me. I want to possess all that You have for me to possess in the Promised Land of my life. Let me be led by You and not by fear and discouragement.
Your Son,
Jeff
“This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.””
Joshua 1:9 NLT
Observation:
When God is telling Joshua that Moses is dead and he is the new leader of God’s people who will take them into the Promised Land, He also tells him not to be afraid or discouraged because God said He would be with Joshua wherever he went. Satan’s greatest tactics are fear and discouragement. Fear causes us not to move forward and possess the land and discouragement takes our courage away. If you are afraid and discouraged, Satan knows you won’t possess your Promises.
Application:
We have not been given a spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind. Whenever I sense fear and discouragement, I know I need to look at my faith. Do I believe God is with me wherever I go? Whenever I fear my next step, I must go back and ask the Lord if it is Him leading me. If it is, I can courageously walk forward, knowing that He is with me when I’m doing His will. Our confidence is in Him and not ourselves.
Prayer:
Father, help me to never walk in fear and discouragement. Teach me to walk by faith and not by sight. Help me to know You are with me at all times and that You will never leave me nor forsake me. I want to possess all that You have for me to possess in the Promised Land of my life. Let me be led by You and not by fear and discouragement.
Your Son,
Jeff
Thursday, April 4, 2019
Jesus Settles our Doubts
Scripture:
“Then, looking into Thomas’ eyes, he said, “Put your finger here in the wounds of my hands. Here—put your hand into my wounded side and see for yourself. Thomas, don’t give in to your doubts any longer, just believe!””
John 20:27 TPT
Observation:
When Jesus first showed up after His resurrection, Thomas was not there. The other disciples told him that Jesus had resurrected and met with them. Thomas said he wouldn’t believe until he saw the wounds and put his hand in the Jesus’ side. Jesus didn’t rebuke him for doubting, He settled his doubts and allowed gave him something strong to believe in.
Application:
Jesus understands when we have doubts. He doesn’t want us to stay in our doubts and let our doubts control our lives, but He will demonstrate his love for us and prove Himself to us when we have doubts. Once he settles our doubts, we then must remain faithful. Thomas remained faithful and never questioned again. He took the Gospel all the way to south India.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to never doubt You again. You have demonstrated Your love to me over and over in my life. You have blessed me miraculously many times. You have healed me, blessed me, protected me, and worked with me throughout my life. I love You and want to serve You well all the days of my life.
Your Son,
Jeff
“Then, looking into Thomas’ eyes, he said, “Put your finger here in the wounds of my hands. Here—put your hand into my wounded side and see for yourself. Thomas, don’t give in to your doubts any longer, just believe!””
John 20:27 TPT
Observation:
When Jesus first showed up after His resurrection, Thomas was not there. The other disciples told him that Jesus had resurrected and met with them. Thomas said he wouldn’t believe until he saw the wounds and put his hand in the Jesus’ side. Jesus didn’t rebuke him for doubting, He settled his doubts and allowed gave him something strong to believe in.
Application:
Jesus understands when we have doubts. He doesn’t want us to stay in our doubts and let our doubts control our lives, but He will demonstrate his love for us and prove Himself to us when we have doubts. Once he settles our doubts, we then must remain faithful. Thomas remained faithful and never questioned again. He took the Gospel all the way to south India.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to never doubt You again. You have demonstrated Your love to me over and over in my life. You have blessed me miraculously many times. You have healed me, blessed me, protected me, and worked with me throughout my life. I love You and want to serve You well all the days of my life.
Your Son,
Jeff
Wednesday, April 3, 2019
Peace
Scripture:
“And everything I’ve taught you is so that the peace which is in me will be in you and will give you great confidence as you rest in me. For in this unbelieving world you will experience trouble and sorrows, but you must be courageous, for I have conquered the world!””
John 16:33 TPT
Observation:
As Jesus was preparing for His own death, He began to reveal much more clearly to His disciples what was about to happen. Here He told them that everything He taught them is so that His peace will be in them, which would give them great confidence as they rested in Him. He goes on to say that He has overcome the world so they could have peace and confidence.
Application:
It is clear here that Jesus did all the work so we wouldn’t have to. He wants us to rest in Him and allow Him to do the work. He wants His people at rest and full of peace, no matter what is going on around them. We are promised trouble, but we are also promised courage, peace, and rest because Jesus overcame the world. In Him, we find our peace and rest.
Prayer:
Father, help me to walk in the peace Jesus provided for us. Show me how to rest in quiet confidence that Christ has overcome the world. Let faith not be something I have to work up, but something I can rest in. Teach me to follow You as You designed.
Yours,
Jeff
“And everything I’ve taught you is so that the peace which is in me will be in you and will give you great confidence as you rest in me. For in this unbelieving world you will experience trouble and sorrows, but you must be courageous, for I have conquered the world!””
John 16:33 TPT
Observation:
As Jesus was preparing for His own death, He began to reveal much more clearly to His disciples what was about to happen. Here He told them that everything He taught them is so that His peace will be in them, which would give them great confidence as they rested in Him. He goes on to say that He has overcome the world so they could have peace and confidence.
Application:
It is clear here that Jesus did all the work so we wouldn’t have to. He wants us to rest in Him and allow Him to do the work. He wants His people at rest and full of peace, no matter what is going on around them. We are promised trouble, but we are also promised courage, peace, and rest because Jesus overcame the world. In Him, we find our peace and rest.
Prayer:
Father, help me to walk in the peace Jesus provided for us. Show me how to rest in quiet confidence that Christ has overcome the world. Let faith not be something I have to work up, but something I can rest in. Teach me to follow You as You designed.
Yours,
Jeff
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