Scripture:
“I must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day; the night is coming when no one can work. As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.””
John 9:4-5 NKJV
Observation:
In this passage, Jesus healed a man who was blind from birth. His disciples asked who sinned, the parents or the individual and Jesus told them neither, but this happened for the flory fo the Lord. He then added, “I must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day; the night is coming when no one can work. As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.”
Application:
Jesus knew what He was sent to do, no matter what people said about Him. He knew that He must work the works of the Father while it was day because night was coming. I also, need to realize that we are living in the last days and must work God’s works in this earth before He returns. While I am here, I need to be lighting up the world for people around me. Jesus told us that we are the light of the world, therefore, we must shine as bright as possible until He returns. Even in isolation and quarantine, we are called to shine.
Prayer:
Lord God, help me to shine and light up the world as long as it is day. Teach me to walk in the light and to share the light effectively. I want to work Your works on the earth. I pray this morning, “Let Your kingdom come and let Your will be done” in the earth. Bring an end to Coronavirus and let your healing rivers flow.
Your Son,
Jeff
Tuesday, March 31, 2020
Monday, March 30, 2020
The Spirit Gives Life
Scripture:
“It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life.”
John 6:63 NKJV
Observation:
Jesus had just told the people that He was the bread who came down from heaven. He also told them that they needed to eat His flesh and drink His blood. Many turned away. In this situation, the Lord said, “It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life.” Spirit produces life and His words are spirit and life.
Application:
We need to eat, feast on, the words of Christ. His words are life and spirit. There is true life in the Spirit. He is the life giver and the one who fills us to overflowing with eternal life. All I can do in the flesh is of no profit, but what comes from the Spirit is always powerful. I need to spend more time with the Holy Spirit and know HIs voice better. I want to live out of the Spirit and not out of the flesh. I want my life to count for Christ, therefore I need to walk in the Spirit at a greater level.
Prayer:
Lord God, help me to keep my eyes on You, the giver of life. You are my life, my passion, my strength and my redeemer. You are my everything. Help me to focus more on You during the day and to seek Your face more and more. Enable me to walk with You through life, impacting people all along the way. I want to live life to the fullest and that is only possible when I live in the Spirit.
Yours,
Jeff
“It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life.”
John 6:63 NKJV
Observation:
Jesus had just told the people that He was the bread who came down from heaven. He also told them that they needed to eat His flesh and drink His blood. Many turned away. In this situation, the Lord said, “It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life.” Spirit produces life and His words are spirit and life.
Application:
We need to eat, feast on, the words of Christ. His words are life and spirit. There is true life in the Spirit. He is the life giver and the one who fills us to overflowing with eternal life. All I can do in the flesh is of no profit, but what comes from the Spirit is always powerful. I need to spend more time with the Holy Spirit and know HIs voice better. I want to live out of the Spirit and not out of the flesh. I want my life to count for Christ, therefore I need to walk in the Spirit at a greater level.
Prayer:
Lord God, help me to keep my eyes on You, the giver of life. You are my life, my passion, my strength and my redeemer. You are my everything. Help me to focus more on You during the day and to seek Your face more and more. Enable me to walk with You through life, impacting people all along the way. I want to live life to the fullest and that is only possible when I live in the Spirit.
Yours,
Jeff
Sunday, March 29, 2020
Above All
Scripture:
“He who comes from above is above all; he who is of the earth is earthly and speaks of the earth. He who comes from heaven is above all.”
John 3:31 NKJV
Observation:
When John was talking about Jesus, he says of Him, “He who comes from above is above all... He who comes from heaven is above all.” John, though he was the cousin of Jesus, saw Jesus as “above all” on this earth.
Application:
I need to see Jesus as “above all.” How you perceive something drastically affects how you relate to it. When you see something as strong, but not all-powerful, you don’t put as much trust in it. When you perceive that Christ is “above all,” it says that you see nothing above Him at any time or in any place. Coronavirus is below Him. Sickness is below Him. Disease is below Him. Death is below Him. Everything is below Him. Therefore I can trust Him because He is truly above all.
Prayer:
Jesus, let me see you how John say you. Let me see you as “above all”. Help me to never doubt your power or goodness. Help me to never question You and what You are doing in my life. You are above all and I submit to You. I am Yours.
Your Son,
Jeff
Saturday, March 28, 2020
Laying on of Hands
Scripture:
“Now Joshua the son of Nun was full of the spirit of wisdom, for Moses had laid his hands on him; so the children of Israel heeded him, and did as the LORD had commanded Moses.”
Deuteronomy 34:9 NKJV
Observation:
Moses had just gone up onto the mountain to pass from this life and the Lord spoke these words concerning Joshua who would be taking over as leader after Moses. It says that Joshua was full of the spirit of wisdom because Moses had laid hands on him. It is inferred here that even the wisdom of God was transferred to Joshua through the laying on of hands.
Application:
We need to be careful who we lay hands on and make sure we don’t lay hands on anyone “suddenly,” but we also need to see the power of laying on of hands. When the people saw this happen, they knew that the wisdom of Moses was coming onto Joshua and that he would lead them well because of the laying on of hands. When someone is ready to lead, they need to have hands laid on them in front of the people for respect and honor from the people they lead. Strong leaders raise up those who will follow after them, but must also give authority to function publicly.
Prayer:
Father, help me to apply this principle to my life and ministry. Help me to recognize who You are raising up and to install them well in front of the people so they will be trusted with authority. Help me to release ministry to those who are prepared.
Yours,
Jeff
“Now Joshua the son of Nun was full of the spirit of wisdom, for Moses had laid his hands on him; so the children of Israel heeded him, and did as the LORD had commanded Moses.”
Deuteronomy 34:9 NKJV
Observation:
Moses had just gone up onto the mountain to pass from this life and the Lord spoke these words concerning Joshua who would be taking over as leader after Moses. It says that Joshua was full of the spirit of wisdom because Moses had laid hands on him. It is inferred here that even the wisdom of God was transferred to Joshua through the laying on of hands.
Application:
We need to be careful who we lay hands on and make sure we don’t lay hands on anyone “suddenly,” but we also need to see the power of laying on of hands. When the people saw this happen, they knew that the wisdom of Moses was coming onto Joshua and that he would lead them well because of the laying on of hands. When someone is ready to lead, they need to have hands laid on them in front of the people for respect and honor from the people they lead. Strong leaders raise up those who will follow after them, but must also give authority to function publicly.
Prayer:
Father, help me to apply this principle to my life and ministry. Help me to recognize who You are raising up and to install them well in front of the people so they will be trusted with authority. Help me to release ministry to those who are prepared.
Yours,
Jeff
Friday, March 27, 2020
Cling to the Lord
Scripture:
“that you may love the LORD your God, that you may obey His voice, and that you may cling to Him, for He is your life and the length of your days; and that you may dwell in the land which the LORD swore to your fathers, to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, to give them.””
Deuteronomy 30:20 NKJV
Observation:
God had just set life and death before the people of Israel and told them to choose life and to walk in obedience to Him. His words to them were: Love the LORD, obey His voice, cling to Him, He is your life, He is the length of your days, and He wants you to live in the Promised Land. God wants the best and has provided the best for us, but we need to cling to Him, love Him and obey Him.
Application:
In times like we are currently in, it is crucial that we cling to the Lord, love Him and obey Him. His ways will cause us to live in the land of promise. His ways will cause us to prosper. His ways will bring us to long life in the land of promise. When the pressures of life and the the situations surrounding me get out of control, I must cling to the Lord. He is my everything.
Prayer:
Father, let me cling to You with all I am. You are my life and my salvation. Your are my strength and the length of my days. All that I am is in You. I am Yours and I choose life. I choose to cling to You today instead of giving into fear. I choose to follow You today instead of doing whatever I want. I am Yours both now and forever. I cling to You!
Your Son,
Jeff
“that you may love the LORD your God, that you may obey His voice, and that you may cling to Him, for He is your life and the length of your days; and that you may dwell in the land which the LORD swore to your fathers, to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, to give them.””
Deuteronomy 30:20 NKJV
Observation:
God had just set life and death before the people of Israel and told them to choose life and to walk in obedience to Him. His words to them were: Love the LORD, obey His voice, cling to Him, He is your life, He is the length of your days, and He wants you to live in the Promised Land. God wants the best and has provided the best for us, but we need to cling to Him, love Him and obey Him.
Application:
In times like we are currently in, it is crucial that we cling to the Lord, love Him and obey Him. His ways will cause us to live in the land of promise. His ways will cause us to prosper. His ways will bring us to long life in the land of promise. When the pressures of life and the the situations surrounding me get out of control, I must cling to the Lord. He is my everything.
Prayer:
Father, let me cling to You with all I am. You are my life and my salvation. Your are my strength and the length of my days. All that I am is in You. I am Yours and I choose life. I choose to cling to You today instead of giving into fear. I choose to follow You today instead of doing whatever I want. I am Yours both now and forever. I cling to You!
Your Son,
Jeff
Thursday, March 26, 2020
Rejoice with Firstfruits
Scripture:
“and now, behold, I have brought the firstfruits of the land which you, O LORD, have given me.’ “Then you shall set it before the LORD your God, and worship before the LORD your God. So you shall rejoice in every good thing which the LORD your God has given to you and your house, you and the Levite and the stranger who is among you.”
Deuteronomy 26:10-11 NKJV
Observation:
In this passage, the children of Israel were told that they were to bring the firstfruits, a tithe, to the Lord and set I before Him and worship before Him. He then told them this is how they were to rejoice in every good thing He had given them. They were to demonstrate their rejoicing through bringing their firstfruits to the Lord.
Application:
When we give our firstfruits, it should be a time of rejoicing before the Lord because He is the one who gave us power to produce wealth and to do anything with our lives. Firstfruits is a time of rejoicing and demonstrating to the Lord that you truly know that it was He that gave it to you and not just something you worked hard for. We are to give God the glory for giving us the ability to bring Him our firstfruits.
Prayer:
Lord, let me rejoice in firstfruits and not just bring a tithe or an offering. It is truly You who has blessed my life and given me everything I have. You are the one who has raised me up and not me or self. You have blessed my life in so many ways. I know that every good thing in my life has come from You. I am Yours. Receive my firstfruits always and teach me to rejoice in Your provision.
Yours,
Jeff
“and now, behold, I have brought the firstfruits of the land which you, O LORD, have given me.’ “Then you shall set it before the LORD your God, and worship before the LORD your God. So you shall rejoice in every good thing which the LORD your God has given to you and your house, you and the Levite and the stranger who is among you.”
Deuteronomy 26:10-11 NKJV
Observation:
In this passage, the children of Israel were told that they were to bring the firstfruits, a tithe, to the Lord and set I before Him and worship before Him. He then told them this is how they were to rejoice in every good thing He had given them. They were to demonstrate their rejoicing through bringing their firstfruits to the Lord.
Application:
When we give our firstfruits, it should be a time of rejoicing before the Lord because He is the one who gave us power to produce wealth and to do anything with our lives. Firstfruits is a time of rejoicing and demonstrating to the Lord that you truly know that it was He that gave it to you and not just something you worked hard for. We are to give God the glory for giving us the ability to bring Him our firstfruits.
Prayer:
Lord, let me rejoice in firstfruits and not just bring a tithe or an offering. It is truly You who has blessed my life and given me everything I have. You are the one who has raised me up and not me or self. You have blessed my life in so many ways. I know that every good thing in my life has come from You. I am Yours. Receive my firstfruits always and teach me to rejoice in Your provision.
Yours,
Jeff
Wednesday, March 25, 2020
God Turns Curses into Blessings
Scripture:
“Nevertheless the LORD your God would not listen to Balaam, but the LORD your God turned the curse into a blessing for you, because the LORD your God loves you.”
Deuteronomy 23:5 NKJV
Observation:
God is speaking in His word here about the Ammonites and Moabites not being allowed into the assembly of the Lord for ten generations because they tried to hire Balaam to curse Israel for them. It says the LORD would not listen to Balaam, but turned the curse into a blessing because He loves His people.
Application:
Even the curses that come along in our lives, the LORD is able to turn into blessings. God loves His people so much that, even in the midst of struggle and tragedy, He can still bless HIs people. We have a God who loves us and will take care of us no matter what. As we walk in obedience to the LORD, He will bless our lives. He is faithful and He will come through, even if Coronavirus has messed up your life and livelihood. He will turn a curse into a blessing!
Prayer:
Father, turn a curse into a blessing for Your people today. Take what the enemy meant for evil and turn it for good. Strengthen Your church and build Your people. Help me to realize that, even when it seems there are curses on my life, You are able to turn them into blessings. Bless my life and bless the people I serve today.
Yours,
Jeff
“Nevertheless the LORD your God would not listen to Balaam, but the LORD your God turned the curse into a blessing for you, because the LORD your God loves you.”
Deuteronomy 23:5 NKJV
Observation:
God is speaking in His word here about the Ammonites and Moabites not being allowed into the assembly of the Lord for ten generations because they tried to hire Balaam to curse Israel for them. It says the LORD would not listen to Balaam, but turned the curse into a blessing because He loves His people.
Application:
Even the curses that come along in our lives, the LORD is able to turn into blessings. God loves His people so much that, even in the midst of struggle and tragedy, He can still bless HIs people. We have a God who loves us and will take care of us no matter what. As we walk in obedience to the LORD, He will bless our lives. He is faithful and He will come through, even if Coronavirus has messed up your life and livelihood. He will turn a curse into a blessing!
Prayer:
Father, turn a curse into a blessing for Your people today. Take what the enemy meant for evil and turn it for good. Strengthen Your church and build Your people. Help me to realize that, even when it seems there are curses on my life, You are able to turn them into blessings. Bless my life and bless the people I serve today.
Yours,
Jeff
Tuesday, March 24, 2020
Don’t be Afraid, God is with You
Scripture:
“And he shall say to them, ‘Hear, O Israel: Today you are on the verge of battle with your enemies. Do not let your heart faint, do not be afraid, and do not tremble or be terrified because of them; for the LORD your God is He who goes with you, to fight for you against your enemies, to save you.’”
Deuteronomy 20:3-4 NKJV
Observation:
In the passage, the LORD is speaking about when His people go into battle with other nations and peoples. He told them to not let their hearts faint or tremble because of their enemies because the LORD will go with them and fight for them against their enemies so He can save His people. When there are battles to fight, the LORD will fight them.
Application:
The people of Israel had to go into battle and face their enemies, but the LORD was with them and truly fought their battles for them. Their job was to not be afraid or terrified, His job was to fight on their behalf. It is difficult to trust God when you see your enemy and know they are more powerful than you. Sometimes it is easier to run than to fight. As God’s children, we can’t run away, but must face our enemies and fight, then trust the LORD to deliver us.
Prayer:
LORD God, help me to trust You in this area. Help me to never fear what the enemy can do to me, but to fear You and You alone. You are my strength and my salvation. You are my victory. Enable me to trust You more and more. Rise up and defeat this Coronavirus. Demonstrate Your power oh God.
Your Son,
Jeff
“And he shall say to them, ‘Hear, O Israel: Today you are on the verge of battle with your enemies. Do not let your heart faint, do not be afraid, and do not tremble or be terrified because of them; for the LORD your God is He who goes with you, to fight for you against your enemies, to save you.’”
Deuteronomy 20:3-4 NKJV
Observation:
In the passage, the LORD is speaking about when His people go into battle with other nations and peoples. He told them to not let their hearts faint or tremble because of their enemies because the LORD will go with them and fight for them against their enemies so He can save His people. When there are battles to fight, the LORD will fight them.
Application:
The people of Israel had to go into battle and face their enemies, but the LORD was with them and truly fought their battles for them. Their job was to not be afraid or terrified, His job was to fight on their behalf. It is difficult to trust God when you see your enemy and know they are more powerful than you. Sometimes it is easier to run than to fight. As God’s children, we can’t run away, but must face our enemies and fight, then trust the LORD to deliver us.
Prayer:
LORD God, help me to trust You in this area. Help me to never fear what the enemy can do to me, but to fear You and You alone. You are my strength and my salvation. You are my victory. Enable me to trust You more and more. Rise up and defeat this Coronavirus. Demonstrate Your power oh God.
Your Son,
Jeff
Monday, March 23, 2020
Caution on Speaking in the Name of the Lord
Scripture:
“But the prophet who presumes to speak a word in My name, which I have not commanded him to speak, or who speaks in the name of other gods, that prophet shall die.’”
Deuteronomy 18:20 NKJV
Observation:
God is speaking through Moses here and setting things in order about how to function when they enter and conquer the Promised Land. He tells the people that when they enter, God will raise up prophets to speak on His behalf and they need to listen, but if the prophet speaks something God isn’t speaking, they should be put to death.
Application:
Speaking on God’s behalf is serious business. We should be careful when saying “God said”. It is better to say, “I feel like God is saying.” God didn’t want His people to think they were hearing from Him, but to know. If there was a prophet who spoke, and it didn’t come to pass, then they were to stone him. I want to be a person who really hears the word of the Lord accurately and communicates what He is saying to His people.
Prayer:
Father, I want to speak on Your behalf. I want to preach messages that You want preached. I want to teach what You want taught. Open my ears to hear what You are saying in every situation. Let me hear from You concerning this Coronavirus. Let me hear the word of the Lord concerning world events. I want my eyes to see and my ears to hear what You are doing in the earth.
Yours,
Jeff
“But the prophet who presumes to speak a word in My name, which I have not commanded him to speak, or who speaks in the name of other gods, that prophet shall die.’”
Deuteronomy 18:20 NKJV
Observation:
God is speaking through Moses here and setting things in order about how to function when they enter and conquer the Promised Land. He tells the people that when they enter, God will raise up prophets to speak on His behalf and they need to listen, but if the prophet speaks something God isn’t speaking, they should be put to death.
Application:
Speaking on God’s behalf is serious business. We should be careful when saying “God said”. It is better to say, “I feel like God is saying.” God didn’t want His people to think they were hearing from Him, but to know. If there was a prophet who spoke, and it didn’t come to pass, then they were to stone him. I want to be a person who really hears the word of the Lord accurately and communicates what He is saying to His people.
Prayer:
Father, I want to speak on Your behalf. I want to preach messages that You want preached. I want to teach what You want taught. Open my ears to hear what You are saying in every situation. Let me hear from You concerning this Coronavirus. Let me hear the word of the Lord concerning world events. I want my eyes to see and my ears to hear what You are doing in the earth.
Yours,
Jeff
Saturday, March 21, 2020
In Your Own Eyes
Scripture:
““You shall not at all do as we are doing here today— every man doing whatever is right in his own eyes—”
Deuteronomy 12:8 NKJV
Observation:
God is speaking here to the children of Israel as they are entering their Promised Land. He tells them that when they enter it, they can’t just do whatever is right in their own eyes, but they must do what the Lord requires of them. When we do what is right in our own eyes, we will always be led astray.
Application:
One of the biggest problems I see in the Christian world today is this exact problem. People see God’s word as an option instead of a command. They only take the parts they agree with. I have sat with many people through the years who I share scriptures with and they say, “Yeah, but I don’t see it that way.” In other words, “if I don’t agree with the Word of God, I will listen to what is right in my eyes.” We must never listen to our own hearts because the heart is deceitful. We must listen to the Word of God, then we will be blessed.
Prayer:
Father, help me to do what is pleasing to You and not just what I think is right in my own eyes. Help me to help others to walk the same way. I want people to see Your blessings, but Your blessings cannot be obtained by doing what we think is right. Your ways are right. Help me to align with Your ways and not just do what is convenient.
Yours,
Jeff
““You shall not at all do as we are doing here today— every man doing whatever is right in his own eyes—”
Deuteronomy 12:8 NKJV
Observation:
God is speaking here to the children of Israel as they are entering their Promised Land. He tells them that when they enter it, they can’t just do whatever is right in their own eyes, but they must do what the Lord requires of them. When we do what is right in our own eyes, we will always be led astray.
Application:
One of the biggest problems I see in the Christian world today is this exact problem. People see God’s word as an option instead of a command. They only take the parts they agree with. I have sat with many people through the years who I share scriptures with and they say, “Yeah, but I don’t see it that way.” In other words, “if I don’t agree with the Word of God, I will listen to what is right in my eyes.” We must never listen to our own hearts because the heart is deceitful. We must listen to the Word of God, then we will be blessed.
Prayer:
Father, help me to do what is pleasing to You and not just what I think is right in my own eyes. Help me to help others to walk the same way. I want people to see Your blessings, but Your blessings cannot be obtained by doing what we think is right. Your ways are right. Help me to align with Your ways and not just do what is convenient.
Yours,
Jeff
Friday, March 20, 2020
Give God the Glory
Scripture:
“then you say in your heart, ‘My power and the might of my hand have gained me this wealth.’ “And you shall remember the LORD your God, for it is He who gives you power to get wealth, that He may establish His covenant which He swore to your fathers, as it is this day.”
Deuteronomy 8:17-18 NKJV
Observation:
God told Moses that He was going to bless the people of Israel. He told them He was going to give them land and houses they did not build and he would prosper them if they would follow the ways of the Lord and do what He wanted. He added the above words out of caution because God resists the proud and gives grace to the humble. When He blesses, we must give Him the glory because it is He who gives us the power to get wealth.
Application:
It is easy to slip into pride when God blesses our lives. It is easy to begin thinking you have great abilities and accomplishments and that’s why you have abundance. We must remember that it is the Lord who gives the power to get wealth. When we are blessed, we must remember it is more about what the Lord has done than what we have done. When blessed... give God the glory.
Prayer:
Father, thank You for blessing my life. I love You and I know I am nothing without You. It is You and You alone who have blessed and prospered my life. I give You the glory for every good thing You have blessed me with. Help me to honor You more and more with my life. You know my heart. When our church has land and buildings, I want to be able to say, “It was all the Lord...only He could have blessed us in this way.”
Yours,
Jeff
“then you say in your heart, ‘My power and the might of my hand have gained me this wealth.’ “And you shall remember the LORD your God, for it is He who gives you power to get wealth, that He may establish His covenant which He swore to your fathers, as it is this day.”
Deuteronomy 8:17-18 NKJV
Observation:
God told Moses that He was going to bless the people of Israel. He told them He was going to give them land and houses they did not build and he would prosper them if they would follow the ways of the Lord and do what He wanted. He added the above words out of caution because God resists the proud and gives grace to the humble. When He blesses, we must give Him the glory because it is He who gives us the power to get wealth.
Application:
It is easy to slip into pride when God blesses our lives. It is easy to begin thinking you have great abilities and accomplishments and that’s why you have abundance. We must remember that it is the Lord who gives the power to get wealth. When we are blessed, we must remember it is more about what the Lord has done than what we have done. When blessed... give God the glory.
Prayer:
Father, thank You for blessing my life. I love You and I know I am nothing without You. It is You and You alone who have blessed and prospered my life. I give You the glory for every good thing You have blessed me with. Help me to honor You more and more with my life. You know my heart. When our church has land and buildings, I want to be able to say, “It was all the Lord...only He could have blessed us in this way.”
Yours,
Jeff
Thursday, March 19, 2020
Oh That They Had
Scripture:
“Oh, that they had such a heart in them that they would fear Me and always keep all My commandments, that it might be well with them and with their children forever!”
Deuteronomy 5:29 NKJV
Observation:
God has met with Moses and spoken with him. The children of Israel had the opportunity to have God speak to all of them like He did with Moses, but they were scared and knew they weren’t living right so they appointed Moses to go talk to God and tell them what He said. God replied to Moses, “Oh, that they had such a heart in them that they would fear Me and always keep all My commandments, that it may be well with them and with their children forever.” Here you see God’s heart. He longs for His people to walk in obedience, simply because He wants to bless them.
Application:
Still today God’s heart wants to bless His children. All He needs is for us to walk in obedience to Him and to fear Him. He wants us to have a heart to follow Him completely. His desire is to make it go well for us, but He needs us to live as His dear children. We must listen to the heart of God saying He wants to bless us, but He needs us to walk according to His ways. When we do what God desires, He is waiting to bless our lives.
Prayer:
Father, help me to live in a way that pleases You. I know You long to bless my life, but You need obedience at all times and I want to provide that. I want to do Your will in the earth. Show me daily what I need to do. Open the doors and I will walk through them. I am Yours.
Yours Forever,
Jeff
“Oh, that they had such a heart in them that they would fear Me and always keep all My commandments, that it might be well with them and with their children forever!”
Deuteronomy 5:29 NKJV
Observation:
God has met with Moses and spoken with him. The children of Israel had the opportunity to have God speak to all of them like He did with Moses, but they were scared and knew they weren’t living right so they appointed Moses to go talk to God and tell them what He said. God replied to Moses, “Oh, that they had such a heart in them that they would fear Me and always keep all My commandments, that it may be well with them and with their children forever.” Here you see God’s heart. He longs for His people to walk in obedience, simply because He wants to bless them.
Application:
Still today God’s heart wants to bless His children. All He needs is for us to walk in obedience to Him and to fear Him. He wants us to have a heart to follow Him completely. His desire is to make it go well for us, but He needs us to live as His dear children. We must listen to the heart of God saying He wants to bless us, but He needs us to walk according to His ways. When we do what God desires, He is waiting to bless our lives.
Prayer:
Father, help me to live in a way that pleases You. I know You long to bless my life, but You need obedience at all times and I want to provide that. I want to do Your will in the earth. Show me daily what I need to do. Open the doors and I will walk through them. I am Yours.
Yours Forever,
Jeff
Wednesday, March 18, 2020
Hold Fast
Scripture:
“Your eyes have seen what the LORD did at Baal Peor; for the LORD your God has destroyed from among you all the men who followed Baal of Peor. But you who held fast to the LORD your God are alive today, every one of you.”
Deuteronomy 4:3-4 NKJV
Observation:
Moses is recounting all the things the Lord had done to the children of Israel. He reminds them here what the LORD did to those men who followed Baal Peor. Then he adds, “But those who held fast to the LORD your God are alive today, every one of you.” Those who held fast to the LORD and didn’t follow any other gods, were all kept alive.
Application:
When trouble comes, it is easy to first away from the LORD. When you are surrounded by other gods and people who are not godly, it is easy to be pulled their way. We must be people who hold fast to the LORD no matter what happens around us. We must be people who walk in faith in th midst of trouble. Now is the time to hold fast to the LORD and see Him defeat our enemies.
Prayer:
Father, You are amazing and I love You with all my heart. In the midst of Coronavirus and everything going crazy around us, help me to hold fast to Your will and Your ways. Give us Your strength and provide supernaturally for Your people as we pursue You and follow Your ways. Give us the strength to hold fast, no matter what comes our way and what we have to walk through.
Your Son,
Jeff
Tuesday, March 17, 2020
Yet You Did Not Believe
Scripture:
“Yet, for all that, you did not believe the LORD your God,”
Deuteronomy 1:32 NKJV
Observation:
Moses was talking about the children of Israel for whom God had done an incredible number of miracles. He had just rehearsed how God had worked in protecting them and fighting their battles, “yet, for all that, you did not believe the LORD your God.” For all God had done for them, they still didn’t believe.
Application:
I want to always be thankful for all the LORD has done in my life. I want to always be on the side of believing and remembering all the good things the LORD has done for me and my family. He has done incredible things in my life, but when struggles come, I quickly forget. I don’t want to be like the children of Israel that quickly forget and don’t believe He will do it again.
Prayer:
Father, help me to remain faithful to You and to believe at all times. Help me to walk with a thankful heart for all You have done, for Your have truly done incredible things in my life. Thank you for all You have done. Help me to walk in faith and confidence, knowing that You will always come through.
Yours,
Jeff
“Yet, for all that, you did not believe the LORD your God,”
Deuteronomy 1:32 NKJV
Observation:
Moses was talking about the children of Israel for whom God had done an incredible number of miracles. He had just rehearsed how God had worked in protecting them and fighting their battles, “yet, for all that, you did not believe the LORD your God.” For all God had done for them, they still didn’t believe.
Application:
I want to always be thankful for all the LORD has done in my life. I want to always be on the side of believing and remembering all the good things the LORD has done for me and my family. He has done incredible things in my life, but when struggles come, I quickly forget. I don’t want to be like the children of Israel that quickly forget and don’t believe He will do it again.
Prayer:
Father, help me to remain faithful to You and to believe at all times. Help me to walk with a thankful heart for all You have done, for Your have truly done incredible things in my life. Thank you for all You have done. Help me to walk in faith and confidence, knowing that You will always come through.
Yours,
Jeff
Monday, March 16, 2020
No Man Left Behind
Scripture:
“and they said to Moses, “Your servants have taken a count of the men of war who are under our command, and not a man of us is missing.”
Numbers 31:49 NKJV
Observation:
In this passage, you can see men reporting to Moses after taking a count of the men returning from fighting against the Midianites. They reported that not a man was missing. They made sure every man who went into battle was accounted for and were able to tell Moses that no man was left behind.
Application:
Jesus told His Father that of all that were given to Him, all were accounted for except the son of perdition. During this Coronavirus outbreak I need to make sure everyone is present and accounted for as a pastor. In live-streaming our services temporarily, I need to check in with all our people because I can’t see who was there and not there. It is a time to make sure no one is missing, hurting, broken, or devastated in our ranks.
Prayer:
Lord, I pray for the people You have called me to serve. Keep us together. Help us to connect with everyone and to make sure that no man or woman is left behind. Enable our elders to make contact with every member and help us to demonstrate Your love well during this season of pandemic. Keep our people safe and healthy. Provide for their needs as some of them are not able to work right now.
Your Son,
Jeff
“and they said to Moses, “Your servants have taken a count of the men of war who are under our command, and not a man of us is missing.”
Numbers 31:49 NKJV
Observation:
In this passage, you can see men reporting to Moses after taking a count of the men returning from fighting against the Midianites. They reported that not a man was missing. They made sure every man who went into battle was accounted for and were able to tell Moses that no man was left behind.
Application:
Jesus told His Father that of all that were given to Him, all were accounted for except the son of perdition. During this Coronavirus outbreak I need to make sure everyone is present and accounted for as a pastor. In live-streaming our services temporarily, I need to check in with all our people because I can’t see who was there and not there. It is a time to make sure no one is missing, hurting, broken, or devastated in our ranks.
Prayer:
Lord, I pray for the people You have called me to serve. Keep us together. Help us to connect with everyone and to make sure that no man or woman is left behind. Enable our elders to make contact with every member and help us to demonstrate Your love well during this season of pandemic. Keep our people safe and healthy. Provide for their needs as some of them are not able to work right now.
Your Son,
Jeff
Saturday, March 14, 2020
Succession Planning
Scripture:
“And the LORD said to Moses: “Take Joshua the son of Nun with you, a man in whom is the Spirit, and lay your hand on him;”
Numbers 27:18 NKJV
Observation:
God told Moses He was going to take him, but before he was going, he was to lay hands on Joshua who was a young man who was filled with the Spirit. Through the laying on of hands, people would see that he was to be the next in charge. They would know who their next leader was because they witnessed Moses give him authority and inaugurate him in front of them. With laying on of hands there is a transfer of authority.
Application:
It is said that there is no success without a successor. The next leader should be able to stand on the shoulders of the previous one because there was a transfer of authority before they left the scene. The next leader shouldn’t try to fill the shoes of the previous, but stand on their shoulders. I need to always be raising up leaders who can take the people of God farther than I ever could. My responsibility is to think long term and see what God is doing and who He wants to lead and prepare them to lead well,
Prayer:
Father, help me to see what You see. Help me to see who You are putting Your hand on as a leader. Teach me to think generationally and to truly become a father of leaders. Enable me to lead well and to prepare others to take over so that the kingdom can advance faster and farther when I am finished.
Yours,
Jeff
“And the LORD said to Moses: “Take Joshua the son of Nun with you, a man in whom is the Spirit, and lay your hand on him;”
Numbers 27:18 NKJV
Observation:
God told Moses He was going to take him, but before he was going, he was to lay hands on Joshua who was a young man who was filled with the Spirit. Through the laying on of hands, people would see that he was to be the next in charge. They would know who their next leader was because they witnessed Moses give him authority and inaugurate him in front of them. With laying on of hands there is a transfer of authority.
Application:
It is said that there is no success without a successor. The next leader should be able to stand on the shoulders of the previous one because there was a transfer of authority before they left the scene. The next leader shouldn’t try to fill the shoes of the previous, but stand on their shoulders. I need to always be raising up leaders who can take the people of God farther than I ever could. My responsibility is to think long term and see what God is doing and who He wants to lead and prepare them to lead well,
Prayer:
Father, help me to see what You see. Help me to see who You are putting Your hand on as a leader. Teach me to think generationally and to truly become a father of leaders. Enable me to lead well and to prepare others to take over so that the kingdom can advance faster and farther when I am finished.
Yours,
Jeff
Friday, March 13, 2020
Don’t Be Bought
Scripture:
“Then Balaam answered and said to the servants of Balak, “Though Balak were to give me his house full of silver and gold, I could not go beyond the word of the LORD my God, to do less or more.”
Numbers 22:18 NKJV
Observation:
Balak wanted Balaam to curse Israel because they were getting stronger and stronger in his region. Balaam said back to him, “Though Balak were to give me his house full of silver and gold, I could not go beyond the word of the LORD my God, to do less or more.” He was saying that he couldn’t be bought with money.
Application:
The love of money is the root of all evil and many people make poor decisions because it pays more. As believers, we are to listen to the voice of God over all other voices, including money. We must listen to the voice of God and do what he says, whether other ways may get us rich, etc. I don’t want to ever be influenced by an offering or a paycheck. I want to be influenced by the Holy Spirit.
Prayer:
Father, help me to serve You well in my generation. Teach me to obey You and You alone. Help me not to look at money when making decisions, but to look at what You are saying and doing. I want to walk in step with You every day of my life.
Your Son,
Jeff
“Then Balaam answered and said to the servants of Balak, “Though Balak were to give me his house full of silver and gold, I could not go beyond the word of the LORD my God, to do less or more.”
Numbers 22:18 NKJV
Observation:
Balak wanted Balaam to curse Israel because they were getting stronger and stronger in his region. Balaam said back to him, “Though Balak were to give me his house full of silver and gold, I could not go beyond the word of the LORD my God, to do less or more.” He was saying that he couldn’t be bought with money.
Application:
The love of money is the root of all evil and many people make poor decisions because it pays more. As believers, we are to listen to the voice of God over all other voices, including money. We must listen to the voice of God and do what he says, whether other ways may get us rich, etc. I don’t want to ever be influenced by an offering or a paycheck. I want to be influenced by the Holy Spirit.
Prayer:
Father, help me to serve You well in my generation. Teach me to obey You and You alone. Help me not to look at money when making decisions, but to look at what You are saying and doing. I want to walk in step with You every day of my life.
Your Son,
Jeff
Thursday, March 12, 2020
Speak the Word of the Lord
Scripture:
““Take the rod; you and your brother Aaron gather the congregation together. Speak to the rock before their eyes, and it will yield its water; thus you shall bring water for them out of the rock, and give drink to the congregation and their animals.””
Numbers 20:8 NKJV
Observation:
The children of Israel were complaining that there was no water to drink except bitter water. They wanted to go back to Egypt where at least they could have fresh water. God saw them and told Moses to speak to the rock and water would come out of it before their eyes. God wanted them to see His miracles and how He would provide for them. He told Moses to speak to the rock so that they would see he walked with God.
Application:
God loves to demonstrate His love and power to His people. He simply needs a vessel that will do what He says. Unfortunately Moses added to the word of the Lord and decided to strike the rock, which got him in trouble later. When God says speak, we need to speak. I need to always be in a place where I can hear the word of the Lord and speak the word of the Lord when it comes. I long to see the power and love of God take care of His people.
Prayer:
Father, when there were plagues among Your people in the wilderness, You would give Moses and Aaron what needed to be done to stop the plague. You would give them instructions to stop what was happening. Speak to Your people concerning this Coronavirus and how to stop it. Open my ears to hear what You are saying and let me speak on Your behalf.
Yours Forever,
Jeff
““Take the rod; you and your brother Aaron gather the congregation together. Speak to the rock before their eyes, and it will yield its water; thus you shall bring water for them out of the rock, and give drink to the congregation and their animals.””
Numbers 20:8 NKJV
Observation:
The children of Israel were complaining that there was no water to drink except bitter water. They wanted to go back to Egypt where at least they could have fresh water. God saw them and told Moses to speak to the rock and water would come out of it before their eyes. God wanted them to see His miracles and how He would provide for them. He told Moses to speak to the rock so that they would see he walked with God.
Application:
God loves to demonstrate His love and power to His people. He simply needs a vessel that will do what He says. Unfortunately Moses added to the word of the Lord and decided to strike the rock, which got him in trouble later. When God says speak, we need to speak. I need to always be in a place where I can hear the word of the Lord and speak the word of the Lord when it comes. I long to see the power and love of God take care of His people.
Prayer:
Father, when there were plagues among Your people in the wilderness, You would give Moses and Aaron what needed to be done to stop the plague. You would give them instructions to stop what was happening. Speak to Your people concerning this Coronavirus and how to stop it. Open my ears to hear what You are saying and let me speak on Your behalf.
Yours Forever,
Jeff
Wednesday, March 11, 2020
God Confirms Who He Chooses
Scripture:
“Now it came to pass on the next day that Moses went into the tabernacle of witness, and behold, the rod of Aaron, of the house of Levi, had sprouted and put forth buds, had produced blossoms and yielded ripe almonds.”
Numbers 17:8 NKJV
Observation:
God had chosen Aaron from the beginning to be the priestly line and to walk with Him. Others wanted equality and the same things that Aaron had, but God demonstrated to everyone who Aaron was and that he was different than all the others. God had all of them place rods into the Tabernacle. The nest day, Aaron’s rod had budded and produced blossoms and ripe almonds, which is a physical miracle. God let everyone know that Aaron was special and to be high priest.
Application:
When God chooses a person for an assignment, He will confirm the calling on their life. We don’t have to self-promote or prove who we are in Christ, God will lift us up at the right time and in the right way. He will confirm what He has chosen for a particular ministry. I need to let God confirm who he is raising up and also allow Him to make a way for me instead of trying to make things happen myself.
Prayer:
Father, teach me to trust You more. Make it clear who You are raising up at any given time. I want to have the right people in the right positions in your kingdom. Help me to see Your guidance. Let the rod produce almonds so I can see Your direction and Your choices for me and for those around me.
Your Son,
Jeff
“Now it came to pass on the next day that Moses went into the tabernacle of witness, and behold, the rod of Aaron, of the house of Levi, had sprouted and put forth buds, had produced blossoms and yielded ripe almonds.”
Numbers 17:8 NKJV
Observation:
God had chosen Aaron from the beginning to be the priestly line and to walk with Him. Others wanted equality and the same things that Aaron had, but God demonstrated to everyone who Aaron was and that he was different than all the others. God had all of them place rods into the Tabernacle. The nest day, Aaron’s rod had budded and produced blossoms and ripe almonds, which is a physical miracle. God let everyone know that Aaron was special and to be high priest.
Application:
When God chooses a person for an assignment, He will confirm the calling on their life. We don’t have to self-promote or prove who we are in Christ, God will lift us up at the right time and in the right way. He will confirm what He has chosen for a particular ministry. I need to let God confirm who he is raising up and also allow Him to make a way for me instead of trying to make things happen myself.
Prayer:
Father, teach me to trust You more. Make it clear who You are raising up at any given time. I want to have the right people in the right positions in your kingdom. Help me to see Your guidance. Let the rod produce almonds so I can see Your direction and Your choices for me and for those around me.
Your Son,
Jeff
Tuesday, March 10, 2020
Delayed Obedience
Scripture:
“For the Amalekites and the Canaanites are there before you, and you shall fall by the sword; because you have turned away from the LORD, the LORD will not be with you.””
Numbers 14:43 NKJV
Observation:
After Joshua and Caleb told the children of Israel to go up immediately and take possession of the land, the children of Israel decided to listen to the ten other spies and to complain that things were better in Egypt. They wanted to go back or die in the wilderness. After God pronounced judgment on them, they decided to go ahead and enter the land. God told them it would not work because they had not listened to Him earlier. They changed their mind, but it was already too late for the LORD.
Application:
There is a saying that delayed obedience is equal to disobedience. It’s easy to change your mind and re-think things later, but the opportunity of a lifetime must be seized within the lifetime of the opportunity. Obedience to God must be on His terms and when He says to do it. I need to improve on immediate obedience and not when I think it is convenient to do things.
Prayer:
Lord God Almighty, you are worthy of honor, power, and praise. You are incredible and I love serving You. Help me to obey You on Your timeline and not my own. Teach me to walk in obedience and not delayed obedience. Empower me to make the hard calls and to do what You say when You say it.
Yours,
Jeff
“For the Amalekites and the Canaanites are there before you, and you shall fall by the sword; because you have turned away from the LORD, the LORD will not be with you.””
Numbers 14:43 NKJV
Observation:
After Joshua and Caleb told the children of Israel to go up immediately and take possession of the land, the children of Israel decided to listen to the ten other spies and to complain that things were better in Egypt. They wanted to go back or die in the wilderness. After God pronounced judgment on them, they decided to go ahead and enter the land. God told them it would not work because they had not listened to Him earlier. They changed their mind, but it was already too late for the LORD.
Application:
There is a saying that delayed obedience is equal to disobedience. It’s easy to change your mind and re-think things later, but the opportunity of a lifetime must be seized within the lifetime of the opportunity. Obedience to God must be on His terms and when He says to do it. I need to improve on immediate obedience and not when I think it is convenient to do things.
Prayer:
Lord God Almighty, you are worthy of honor, power, and praise. You are incredible and I love serving You. Help me to obey You on Your timeline and not my own. Teach me to walk in obedience and not delayed obedience. Empower me to make the hard calls and to do what You say when You say it.
Yours,
Jeff
Monday, March 9, 2020
The Same Spirit
Scripture:
“Then the LORD came down in the cloud, and spoke to him, and took of the Spirit that was upon him, and placed the same upon the seventy elders; and it happened, when the Spirit rested upon them, that they prophesied, although they never did so again.”
Numbers 11:25 NKJV
Observation:
God took the Spirit that was upon Moses and put it on seventy elders. It was the SAME Spirit. The elders were given the spirit that was upon Moses and they prophesied. God came upon Moses’ leadership team and it was the same spirit that was on the leader.
Application:
I love the gifts, callings and differences within the local church body, but I long for my leadership team to have the same spirit on their lives that is upon mine. I want people to function in who they are, but I want God to use them powerfully as they lead and minister. I long to see those around me flow in the Holy Spirit without having to look, act, and sound like me. I want to raise up men and women who are sensitive to the Holy Spirit and who walk in step with Him, while remaining uniquely who they are. One heart, one vision, one mission, one spirit, yet different gifts.
Prayer:
Father, let the Spirit on my life be multiplied onto those around me. Let them run farther and walk closer to You than I have. Let them achieve great things in the Spirit. Let them walk in your power and see your glory. Multiply our leadership.
Yours,
Jeff
“Then the LORD came down in the cloud, and spoke to him, and took of the Spirit that was upon him, and placed the same upon the seventy elders; and it happened, when the Spirit rested upon them, that they prophesied, although they never did so again.”
Numbers 11:25 NKJV
Observation:
God took the Spirit that was upon Moses and put it on seventy elders. It was the SAME Spirit. The elders were given the spirit that was upon Moses and they prophesied. God came upon Moses’ leadership team and it was the same spirit that was on the leader.
Application:
I love the gifts, callings and differences within the local church body, but I long for my leadership team to have the same spirit on their lives that is upon mine. I want people to function in who they are, but I want God to use them powerfully as they lead and minister. I long to see those around me flow in the Holy Spirit without having to look, act, and sound like me. I want to raise up men and women who are sensitive to the Holy Spirit and who walk in step with Him, while remaining uniquely who they are. One heart, one vision, one mission, one spirit, yet different gifts.
Prayer:
Father, let the Spirit on my life be multiplied onto those around me. Let them run farther and walk closer to You than I have. Let them achieve great things in the Spirit. Let them walk in your power and see your glory. Multiply our leadership.
Yours,
Jeff
Sunday, March 8, 2020
Stay Under His Fire
Scripture:
“Whether it was two days, a month, or a year that the cloud remained above the tabernacle, the children of Israel would remain encamped and not journey; but when it was taken up, they would journey.”
Numbers 9:22 NKJV
Observation:
Whenever the pillar of cloud and the pillar of fire stayed in a place, whether it was a day, a month or a year, they children of Israel were not to move. Unless the fire moved, they were not to move. It was God’s way of directing His people. Their job was to stay under the fire.
Application:
We have the presence of the Holy Spirit constantly in our lives. He is always with us, yet there is something to be said about staying under the fire. We need to remain willing and obedient to the voice of the Lord and what He is saying to us. Whether by fire or by still small voice, God looks for obedience from His children. When we know God is telling us to move, we need to be ready to move. When He is telling us to stay, we need to be okay with staying. We should focus more on the will of God than what we want to do.
Prayer:
Father, help me to follow You and to do exactly what You desire at all times. I don’t see Your fire visibly over my head, but You can still communicate when it is time to move. Help me to walk in step with Your Spirit at all times. I want to see Your fire poured out in greater measure. Help me to stay under the fire of Your presence. I want more and more of You. Come Holy Spirit and guide and direct my life. I am Yours.
Your Son,
Jeff
“Whether it was two days, a month, or a year that the cloud remained above the tabernacle, the children of Israel would remain encamped and not journey; but when it was taken up, they would journey.”
Numbers 9:22 NKJV
Observation:
Whenever the pillar of cloud and the pillar of fire stayed in a place, whether it was a day, a month or a year, they children of Israel were not to move. Unless the fire moved, they were not to move. It was God’s way of directing His people. Their job was to stay under the fire.
Application:
We have the presence of the Holy Spirit constantly in our lives. He is always with us, yet there is something to be said about staying under the fire. We need to remain willing and obedient to the voice of the Lord and what He is saying to us. Whether by fire or by still small voice, God looks for obedience from His children. When we know God is telling us to move, we need to be ready to move. When He is telling us to stay, we need to be okay with staying. We should focus more on the will of God than what we want to do.
Prayer:
Father, help me to follow You and to do exactly what You desire at all times. I don’t see Your fire visibly over my head, but You can still communicate when it is time to move. Help me to walk in step with Your Spirit at all times. I want to see Your fire poured out in greater measure. Help me to stay under the fire of Your presence. I want more and more of You. Come Holy Spirit and guide and direct my life. I am Yours.
Your Son,
Jeff
Saturday, March 7, 2020
Placing God’s Name
Scripture:
“And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying: “Speak to Aaron and his sons, saying, ‘This is the way you shall bless the children of Israel. Say to them: “The LORD bless you and keep you; The LORD make His face shine upon you, And be gracious to you; The LORD lift up His countenance upon you, And give you peace.” ’ “So they shall put My name on the children of Israel, and I will bless them.””
Numbers 6:22-27 NKJV
Observation:
God gave Moses the priestly blessing Aaron was to use when blessing the children of Israel. He said that when they pronounced this blessing, the Lord would put His name on them and bless them. When the blessing was spoken, it placed the name of God on them and when His name was on them, they were blessed.
Application:
In the Old Testament the priests could speak the blessing and the children of Israel would be blessed. In the New Testament we are a Kingdom of priests and therefore we can speak and release the blessing of God. I need to speak this powerful blessing over the people I serve as well as over my own life. I want God’s name placed on my life and His goodness to be seen on my life and family.
Prayer:
Father, help me to speak Your blessing which You instituted as a way to bless Your people. Even now I say, May the LORD bless me and my family and keep us; may His face shine upon us and be gracious to us. May the LORD lift His countenance on us and give us peace. Bless my house, my family, and the people I lead in church.
Yours Forever,
Jeff
“And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying: “Speak to Aaron and his sons, saying, ‘This is the way you shall bless the children of Israel. Say to them: “The LORD bless you and keep you; The LORD make His face shine upon you, And be gracious to you; The LORD lift up His countenance upon you, And give you peace.” ’ “So they shall put My name on the children of Israel, and I will bless them.””
Numbers 6:22-27 NKJV
Observation:
God gave Moses the priestly blessing Aaron was to use when blessing the children of Israel. He said that when they pronounced this blessing, the Lord would put His name on them and bless them. When the blessing was spoken, it placed the name of God on them and when His name was on them, they were blessed.
Application:
In the Old Testament the priests could speak the blessing and the children of Israel would be blessed. In the New Testament we are a Kingdom of priests and therefore we can speak and release the blessing of God. I need to speak this powerful blessing over the people I serve as well as over my own life. I want God’s name placed on my life and His goodness to be seen on my life and family.
Prayer:
Father, help me to speak Your blessing which You instituted as a way to bless Your people. Even now I say, May the LORD bless me and my family and keep us; may His face shine upon us and be gracious to us. May the LORD lift His countenance on us and give us peace. Bless my house, my family, and the people I lead in church.
Yours Forever,
Jeff
Friday, March 6, 2020
Obedience
Scripture:
“Thus the children of Israel did according to all that the LORD commanded Moses; so they camped by their standards and so they broke camp, each one by his family, according to their fathers’ houses.”
Numbers 2:34 NKJV
Observation:
This verse tells us that the children of Israel did according to all that a the LORD commanded Moses. They believed the man of God and did exactly what he said. When they followed in that manner, they were blessed, when they decided to follow their own hearts, they messed up every single time.
Application:
The most important aspect of following the Lord is obedience. God wants a people who are completely His. He wants a kingdom of priests who follow His ways and His commands. When we follow the Lord and His commands, we will see the blessings He has promised. When we don’t obey, we see problems on every corner. Obedience is better than sacrifice. I need to do exactly what I feel the Lord says do and not only the parts that make sense to me.
Prayer:
Father, I love You and want to represent You well all the days of my life. I want to walk with You and talk with You. I want to obey you in every area of my life. I want to be led by Your Spirit and not my flesh. I want to do Your will. Empower me to do what I know I need to do and not to do the things You don’t want me to do. Help me to be led by You and not by th opinions of others.
Your Son,
Jeff
“Thus the children of Israel did according to all that the LORD commanded Moses; so they camped by their standards and so they broke camp, each one by his family, according to their fathers’ houses.”
Numbers 2:34 NKJV
Observation:
This verse tells us that the children of Israel did according to all that a the LORD commanded Moses. They believed the man of God and did exactly what he said. When they followed in that manner, they were blessed, when they decided to follow their own hearts, they messed up every single time.
Application:
The most important aspect of following the Lord is obedience. God wants a people who are completely His. He wants a kingdom of priests who follow His ways and His commands. When we follow the Lord and His commands, we will see the blessings He has promised. When we don’t obey, we see problems on every corner. Obedience is better than sacrifice. I need to do exactly what I feel the Lord says do and not only the parts that make sense to me.
Prayer:
Father, I love You and want to represent You well all the days of my life. I want to walk with You and talk with You. I want to obey you in every area of my life. I want to be led by Your Spirit and not my flesh. I want to do Your will. Empower me to do what I know I need to do and not to do the things You don’t want me to do. Help me to be led by You and not by th opinions of others.
Your Son,
Jeff
Thursday, March 5, 2020
Father Forgive Them
Scripture:
“Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.” And they divided His garments and cast lots.”
Luke 23:34 NKJV
Observation:
When Jesus was on the cross, His heart was still for people. He walked in forgiveness, even for those who were killing Him and asked His Father to forgive them. He understood that these things needed to happen and therefore, was able to realize it wasn’t them putting Christ on the cross, but our sin. Even when being killed, our Savior was forgiving people.
Application:
When we walk in forgiveness, we are walking with Jesus. He is the ultimate example of forgiving those who don’t deserve it. He showed us how to forgive, even those who are persecuting us. Our job is to forgive like Jesus forgave, expecting nothing in return. Jesus forgave offense, period! We need to learn to forgive as He did.
Prayer:
Lord, You are incredible and I love You with all my heart. Help me to walk in forgiveness as You did. Help me to have the mind and attitude of Christ at all times. Teach me to walk with You and to love how You love. Fill me with Your Spirit and help me to do Your will at all times. I am Yours.
Your Son,
Jeff
Wednesday, March 4, 2020
Lift Up Your Heads
Scripture:
“Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near.””
Luke 21:28 NKJV
Observation:
Jesus had been telling His disciples of all the things that would come to pass before His return. He talked about wars and pestilences, and earthquakes and signs in the heavens, and even the fulness of the Gentiles. He then told them that when these things begin to happen, they should lift up their heads because their redemption draws near.
Application:
I see these things constantly in the news today. It seems to me that everything is drawing to a conclusion on this earth as we know it. It seems the days Jesus described are increasing at an incredible rate. Our job at this point is to finish His work while it is day and also to lift up our heads because our redemption draws near. Our day of redemption is nearer than we realize. What we do, we must accelerate because God is moving everything towards Christ’s return. As for me, I’m working hard and looking up.
Prayer:
Father, help me to work hard to the end that as many as possible may be saved and to look up while I work because I know Your coming is soon. Help me to keep my focus on Your kingdom as Your time of redemption comes close. Teach me to walk in Your Spirit and to be led by Your Spirit at all times.
Your Son,
Jeff
“Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near.””
Luke 21:28 NKJV
Observation:
Jesus had been telling His disciples of all the things that would come to pass before His return. He talked about wars and pestilences, and earthquakes and signs in the heavens, and even the fulness of the Gentiles. He then told them that when these things begin to happen, they should lift up their heads because their redemption draws near.
Application:
I see these things constantly in the news today. It seems to me that everything is drawing to a conclusion on this earth as we know it. It seems the days Jesus described are increasing at an incredible rate. Our job at this point is to finish His work while it is day and also to lift up our heads because our redemption draws near. Our day of redemption is nearer than we realize. What we do, we must accelerate because God is moving everything towards Christ’s return. As for me, I’m working hard and looking up.
Prayer:
Father, help me to work hard to the end that as many as possible may be saved and to look up while I work because I know Your coming is soon. Help me to keep my focus on Your kingdom as Your time of redemption comes close. Teach me to walk in Your Spirit and to be led by Your Spirit at all times.
Your Son,
Jeff
Tuesday, March 3, 2020
God Honors Humility
Scripture:
“I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.””
Luke 18:14 NKJV
Observation:
Jesus told the story of a rich man and a poor man who came to the place of prayer. The rich man boasted in his goodness and the poor man beat his breast and declared, “God be merciful to men a sinner.” Jesus said this man justified because of his humility, then Jesus goes on to say that whoever humbles himself will be exalted and whoever exalts himself will be humbled.
Application:
We can never come to God with our list of good things we have done. He responds to a heart of humility and thankfulness for all He has done in us and for us. He justifies sinners who humble themselves and tears down self-righteous people who think they are something. God honors humility and brokenness, that is what we should honor.
Prayer:
Father, help me to walk in humility before You all the days of my life. Help me not to boast in anything but You. I want to represent You well in my generation. Teach me to walk in humility and to trust You more and more. You are my everything and without You, I am helpless.
Yours,
Jeff
“I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.””
Luke 18:14 NKJV
Observation:
Jesus told the story of a rich man and a poor man who came to the place of prayer. The rich man boasted in his goodness and the poor man beat his breast and declared, “God be merciful to men a sinner.” Jesus said this man justified because of his humility, then Jesus goes on to say that whoever humbles himself will be exalted and whoever exalts himself will be humbled.
Application:
We can never come to God with our list of good things we have done. He responds to a heart of humility and thankfulness for all He has done in us and for us. He justifies sinners who humble themselves and tears down self-righteous people who think they are something. God honors humility and brokenness, that is what we should honor.
Prayer:
Father, help me to walk in humility before You all the days of my life. Help me not to boast in anything but You. I want to represent You well in my generation. Teach me to walk in humility and to trust You more and more. You are my everything and without You, I am helpless.
Yours,
Jeff
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)