Confidence in God’s Direction

 Scripture:

”So take courage! For I believe God. It will be just as he said. But we will be shipwrecked on an island.”‭‭Acts of the Apostles‬ ‭27‬:‭25‬-‭26‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

Paul was on route to Rome on board ship. There was a terrible storm that lasted a very long time. In the midst of the storm, Paul had a God experience where the Lord told him what was going to happen and that everyone was gong to make it. He told the non-believers on board, “take courage! For I believe God. It will be just as he said. But we will be shipwrecked on an island.”

Application:

I want to walk with God like the Apostle Paul. I want to hear God’s voice clearly and give confident direction to those around me of what God is going to do. In the midst of struggle, I want to be rock solid and to bring peace into troubled situations because I have a relationship with God that is strong enough to handle anything. 

Prayer:

Lord, I want to know Your voice and hear it clearly so I can give confident direction in every situation. I don’t want to miss anything You have for me, no matter what that may look like. Teach me to trust You more and to walk in step with Your Spirit. I want to know You at a deeper level and to walk in confidence of who I am and what You are doing. 

Teach me More,

Jeff

God’s Got a Plan

 Scripture:

”That night the Lord appeared to Paul and said, “Be encouraged, Paul. Just as you have been a witness to me here in Jerusalem, you must preach the Good News in Rome as well.”“ ‭‭Acts of the Apostles‬ ‭23‬:‭11‬ NLT‬

Observation:

Paul was in the midst of defending himself before the Pharisees and Sadducees. They were treating him terribly and trying to find some way to prosecute him. It was very much like the Pharisees and Sadducees treated Jesus, looking for a way to trap Him. During that time, the Lord appeared to Paul and told him that just like he had been a witness in Jerusalem, he would also preach the Gospel in Rome.  God confirmed that things were not going to be easy, but that He had a plan for Paul’s life.

Application:

Sometimes God’s plans and our plans don’t seem to be aligning. I’m sure Paul had different plans for his life than being interrogated harshly by his own people, then sitting in prison for quite a while before being shipped to Rome for more imprisonment. God was working a way to get Paul to preach in Rome, as well as Jerusalem. The Gospel needed to be spread and God used the means He needed to in order to get Paul in the right place to be heard. Sometimes when we are going through some things we must realize that God has a plan that we may not understand right now, but if we remain yielded to Him, it will come to pass and His will shall prevail.

Prayer:

Father, I like the easy road that seems paved with success and blessing.‬ Your plans for my life may be difference than mine. When I don’t understand, speak to me. When I don’t see why I have to go through some things, speak to me. Speak to me like You spoke to Paul to confirm Your will for his life. Appear to me and show me what is to come. I yield my life to You. Keep me on track and encounter me as needed so I can understand what is going on around me. 

Yours Forever,

Jeff

Tangible Anointing

 Scripture:

”When handkerchiefs or aprons that had merely touched his skin were placed on sick people, they were healed of their diseases, and evil spirits were expelled.“ ‭‭Acts of the Apostles‬ ‭19‬:‭12‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

When Paul was ministering the Gospel there were signs and wonders that followed his ministry. Here it says that handkerchiefs and aprons that touched his skin were taken to sick people and they were healed and delivered from demons. Paul had a tangible anointing that rested on him. When people touched Jesus, they were healed. When people touched Paul, they were healed.

Application:

When people touch my life, are they healed and delivered? I want my life to make a difference in the lies of those around me. I want them to be healed just because they came in contact with me. I want to walk in a tangible anointing that break yokes and removes burdens. I want God to flow and work through my life for His glory and the extension of His kingdom. I don’t want to minister for God, but with God.

Prayer:

Father, I want to work as one with You. I want Your presence and power to be revealed in my life at greater levels. Help me to walk in step with You each and every day. Teach me to do what You want done. Pour Your Spirit out upon a din my life. Here am I, use me for Your glory. I am Yours and Yours alone.

Your Son,

Jeff

Seek Him

 Scripture:

”“His purpose was for the nations to seek after God and perhaps feel their way toward him and find him—though he is not far from any one of us.“ ‭‭Acts of the Apostles‬ ‭17‬:‭27‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

In this passage Paul is preaching in Athens, Greece. The Gospel had been preached in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and now it was being preached to the ends of the earth. God speaks through Paul here and says that His purpose was for the nations to seek after God and find Him, though He is not far from any of us. In other words, He is close, but we still need to seek Him.

Application:

God is everywhere all the time. He is omnipresent, yet He desires us to seek Him out. He longs for a people who will seek His face and want to know Him. It is like when you lose something in a room. You know it is right there close to you, yet you have to seek it. God is closer than we think, but we must pursue Him. He is with us all the time, but we must be aware of His presence. We must fulfill His desire, that we be a people who will seek Him out.

Prayer:

Father, help me to be a seeker of You. I want to spend my life seeking You and knowing more and more of You and Your goodness. Teach me Your ways and show me Your paths. Walk with me and let me hear Your voice. Show me how to respond in each and every situation. I want to live a life of holy pursuit.

Seeking You,

Jeff

Prove the Message

 Scripture:

”But the apostles stayed there a long time, preaching boldly about the grace of the Lord. And the Lord proved their message was true by giving them power to do miraculous signs and wonders.“ ‭‭Acts of the Apostles‬ ‭14‬:‭3‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

The apostles preached the Gospel in Antioch and the surrounding region boldly concerning the grace of God. God then backed up their words by giving them power to do miraculous signs and wonders. The message was proved to be true by demonstrations of God’s power.

Application:

We need more of the power of God in our midst. I don’t want to just preach good messages, but messages that are endued with power from on high. I want to preach messages that are confirmed with signs and wonders. I don’t want to minister on my own, but backed by the Spirit of God who can prove the message is true. 

Prayer:

Holy Spirit, fill me with Your power. Help me to walk in step with You all the days of my life. Teach me to be more sensitive to your voice and let me be led by Your Spirit. Show me how to lead well. Back up what I speak with Your power and do miraculous signs and wonders once again to prove the message is true. Come Holy Spirit and move in our midst.

Your Forever,

Jeff

The Power of the Lord

 Scripture:

”The power of the Lord was with them, and a large number of these Gentiles believed and turned to the Lord.“ ‭‭Acts of the Apostles‬ ‭11‬:‭21‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

This Scripture is so powerful because it is not talking about Peter, or Paul, but about scattered believers who began to preach Jesus wherever they went. As they preached, the power of the Lord was with them, and large numbers of Gentiles believed and turned. When the power of the Lord is present, it doesn’t matter if you have the apostles and bishops with you, people will come to Jesus.

Application:

We have moved from walking in power to making incredible performances in the Body of Christ. We go to extremes to get people saved. The early church simply preached Jesus and power followed, then people were convinced. I love doing every possible thing to grab an audience’s attention and help them understand God’s word, but if there is no power in it, it will not be truly effective. I want to walk in God’s power and not the wisdom of man.

Prayer:

Father, fill me with Your power. Let my teaching and preaching not be with words of man’s wisdom, but with Your power. Demonstrate Your power in and through my life so people will be truly converted and set free from all the powers of the the evil one. Teach me how to walk with You in deeper levels of faith. Let Your power always be sensed when I proclaim Your truth.

Yours Forever,

Jeff

But Lord

 Scripture:

”“But Lord,” exclaimed Ananias, “I’ve heard many people talk about the terrible things this man has done to the believers in Jerusalem!“ ‭‭Acts of the Apostles‬ ‭9‬:‭13‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

God had told Ananias to go and pray for Saul. Ananias knew who Paul was and how he was persecuting Christians. His reply to God was “But Lord.” He had good reason, not to do what the Lord told him to do. He could have used the wisdom excuse, saying it was not wise to be going to pray for a man who was killing Christians. Nevertheless, Ananias did what the Lord told him to do, after a little convincing.

Application:

I know I have used the “but Lord” statement in my life on many occasions. As I enter the latter stages of life, I don’t want to miss out of what God is telling me to do, even if it doesn’t make sense or is dangerous. I want to be fully obedient and someone God can trust to do what He needs done in the earth. I want to walk in great wisdom, but I also want to walk in complete obedience. When they clash, I want to err on the side of obedience to God.

Prayer:

Father, thank You for loving me and working in my life. You are amazing! Thank You for lifting me up and setting me down in my motorcycle accident the other day. I still can’t comprehend how I ended up on my feet without a scratch. Your angels did something amazing to me. Help me to walk in obedience, when it makes sense and when it doesn’t.

Yours Forever,

Jeff

What Time is it?

 Scripture:

”For he must remain in heaven until the time for the final restoration of all things, as God promised long ago through his holy prophets.“ ‭‭Acts of the Apostles‬ ‭3‬:‭21‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

Peter was preaching about Jesus and made this declaration. He had described how Jesus ascended to heaven and then said, “He must remain in heaven until the time for the final restoration of all things.” There is a time when Jesus will return and I believe we are very close to that time. When it is time for the restoration of all things, Jesus will return.

Application:

We see signs all around us of the last days as described in Scripture. There is a time when the Father will send His Son back to earth to restore all things. He will reign for 1000 years and things will be like they were in the Garden of Eden. There will be peace and joy under His leadership. Until then, we wait and we work in the harvest fields of His kingdom. Jesus is coming soon to restore all things and now the Church must be about His business around the world. I’m ready for the restoration of all things, but I’m also ready to work for my master until that happens.

Prayer:

Father, empower me to live in these last days. Help me to be effective for You while I wait for the return of Christ. Let me be found faithful in all things. Use my life for Your glory and to prepare people for Christ’s return. When Jesus comes again, I want to be ready and extending His kingdom in all the earth.

Your Son,

Jeff

Personal Experience Matters

 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 verse points out that God’s people served Him throughout the generations who saw His miraculous intervention. Those who saw His mighty deeds in Egypt, the wilderness, and in defeating Israel’s enemies in the Promised Land, followed Him wholeheartedly, but those who never saw firsthand began to stray.

Application:

Every generation needs a move of God. Every generation needs to see a great outpouring of the Spirit. If not, we see a turning away. It is those who have a personal and powerful encounter with the Lord who follow Him the rest of their days. We need to see God move in this generation. Our children and grandchildren need to see the power of God and not just hear stories of the past. We must demonstrate to the next generation that God is who He says He is and that He is real and powerful. Every generation needs a personal encounter with God Almighty.

Prayer:

Father, pour out Your Spirit on my generation. Move powerfully on the earth  and let this generation see Your powerful right arm. Let me never live on the stories of yesterday, but on what You are doing today. Let my life be a demonstration to the world that You are who You say You are. Let the people I serve and minister to have a personal encounter with You that the enemy can never deny.

Yours Forever,

Jeff

He Fulfills His 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:

This passage declared the faithfulness of God to His people so well. It reminds me this morning that not a single one of all God’s promises will fail. He is a God who does what He says He will do. The question is whether we can hear His voice clearly and know what He Said He would do. We have the Word of God, which is full of His promises to us, but we also have the Rhema Word of God for our particular lives. 

Application:

I want to see every promise the Lord has given me fulfilled in my lifetime. I want to live out His will in my generation. I don’t want to leave earth with unfulfilled promises because of my lack of faith, etc. I want to accomplish everything the Lord has for me to do. He is faithful and I want to fulfill His will in and through my life.

Prayer:

God Almighty, You have always been faithful to Your people. You are amazing and I love You with all my heart. Help me to walk out every promise You have placed on my life. Let me fulfill everything You have planned for me, not leaving anything on the table that You desired for my life. Let me walk in step with You and know Your heart. Let me never say no due to fear or lack of faith, but let me be someone You can trust to do what You want done.

Yours Forever,

Jeff

How Long Are You Going to Wait?

 Scripture:

”Then Joshua asked them, “How long are you going to wait before taking possession of the remaining land the Lord, the God of your ancestors, has given to you?“ ‭‭Joshua‬ ‭18‬:‭3‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

God had given the land to the people of Israel as their possession, but the had to go in and fight for it. At this point in time, most of the region had been conquered and God’s people had taken possession of most of it, but there were some who still hadn’t taken possession of their property. 

Application:

Jesus purchased so much at the cross concerning our lives. He purchased our salvation, our healing, our deliverance, our victory, etc. but sometimes we don’t take possession of what He died to give us. Just like the people of Israel, it is ours. We just have to take possession of it.There are times in our lives where we need to fight for what is ours to take possession of it. God has done His part and we need to do our part in order to inherit it. When someone dies, a will is enacted, but if one of the inheritors never makes a claim on what it theirs, it will be turned over to the state. Some things are already ours, we just have to claim them and enforce them.

Prayer:

Father, I don’t want to leave anything on the table that You have given me. I want to inherit everything Jesus died to give me. Help me never to be satisfied with walking in less than what You have purchased for me and mine. Increase my faith and help me to take initiative to claim what is mine.

Yours Forever,

Jeff

Increase my Faith

 Scripture:

”So give me the hill country that the Lord promised me. You will remember that as scouts we found the descendants of Anak living there in great, walled towns. But if the Lord is with me, I will drive them out of the land, just as the Lord said.” Joshua‬ ‭14‬:‭12‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

Caleb was now 85 years old and the verse before says he was still able to travel and fight as good as when he was in his prime. He asked Joshua to give him what the Lord had promised him forty-five years prior. He acknowledged that the giants were will living there, but also said, “If the Lord is with me, I will drive them out of the land.” He knew that if God was on his side, nothing was impossible. 

Application:

We should never fear whatever is in front of us because we serve the God who can defeat any enemy and change any situation. Fear and faith cannot coexist. I want to live my life like a Caleb, with complete faith and trust that, no matter how old I am or what condition I’m in, God will see me through. I want to live in faith like that. I want to know in my heart what the Apostle Paul said, “If God is for you… who can be against you?” I want my faith and obedience to increase at this stage of my life.

Prayer:

Father, You are worthy of it all. You are my everything. You have walked with me all the days of my life. Help me to represent You well and to live in faith and never in fear. Let me remain strong to the very end of my life. Empower me to live the Jesus-filled life until You call me home. Let no obstacle be too big or difficulty too strong and let my faith rise up to believe You will do what You say You will do.

Yours Forever,

Jeff

When God Fights Your Battles

 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:

As Joshua and the people of Israel were taking possession of the land the Lord gave them, they were not fighting on their own. They had God join them in the fight. On this occasion, the Lord fought their enemies with them and destroyed more with a hailstorm than the army destroyed with their weapons. This is when you know God is fighting your battles. 

Application:

If God is for us… Who can be against us? When God fights your battles, you will be victorious! He may not operate like we would, but His will shall prevail. When we fight our battles, our energy and resources are limited. When God fights our battles, we can rest in Him and work with Him and not for Him. My desire is to work WITH God on accomplishing His mission, not to just work FOR God. I don’t mind doing my part, but I need God to do His part.

Prayer:

Father, let me walk in You wisdom and guidance. Show me how to take every step and to live in Your blessing. As I get older, let me walk closer with You and receive strength from You. Teach me to be effective in my latter years of life. Show me how to let You fight my battles. Help me to trust You more and finish what You desire to accomplish in and through my life. I am Yours and want to live for your purposes.

Your Son,

Jeff 

Always Consult the Lord

 Scripture:

"So the Israelites examined their food, but they did not consult the Lord." (Joshua 9:14 NLT)

Observation:

The Gibeonites heard about how God was defeating all of Israel's enemies and those who lived in the Promised Land. They came to Joshua and acted like they were from a faraway place and wanted a peace treaty with Israel. They showed Joshua old bread and old wine containers to prove how far they had come. Joshua inspected everything but didn't consult the Lord. Israel ended up not being able to fully obey the Lord because they were lied to and thee leadership didn't consult the Lord.

Application:

No matter how good a proposal looks, we must always consult the Lord when options are given to us. He will lead and guide us into all truth, but He must be consulted with. As a leader, I need to make sure the decisions I make are from the Lord and not just something that seems good to me. I don't want to lead out of my own will but out of the will of God. I want to lead well and fulfill every detail the Lord has for me. Therefore, I must consult Him about everything. 

Prayer:

Father, reveal Your will to me clearly as you did with Joshua and Moses before him. Teach me to hear Your voice and obey Your requirements. Remind me to never make decisions without seeking Your face and knowing what You want me to do. I don't want to lean on my own flesh and wisdom, but on Your supernatural wisdom. Lead me Holy Spirit and I will do my best to follow.

Yours,

Jeff

When the Manna Stops

 Scripture:

”No manna appeared on the day they first ate from the crops of the land, and it was never seen again. So from that time on the Israelites ate from the crops of Canaan.“ ‭‭Joshua‬ ‭5‬:‭12‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

God had provided manna every day for His people for forty years as they journeyed through the wilderness. He continued this until the first day they ate crops from the Promised Land, then suddenly the manna stopped. They were now able to work the land and harvest food for themselves. God will work miracles in our lives for a season, but then expects us to take care of ourselves and use wisdom. 

Application:

As a NT believer, I can glean from this that God will provide for us supernaturally when there is no other provision. The Psalmist said he had never seen the righteous forsaken or God’s seed begging for bread. When we are in trouble and have no way to provide for ourselves, we can trust our God to take care of us supernaturally. When we have the ability to take care of ourselves, He expects us to take care of ourselves. We are to do what we can through and work to provide for ourselves, but when we can’t, we have a God who can and will take care of us.

Prayer:

Father, You have provided for all my needs throughout my lifetime. You are faithful and trustworthy. Thank You for loving me and caring for me. Thank You for providing for me when I needed it. Help me to be a hard worker, yet one who trusts in God. Teach me the difference between trusting God and being self-made or self-content. Thank You for never letting me fail.

Your Son,

Jeff

God’s Confirmation

 Scripture:

”The Lord told Joshua, “Today I will begin to make you a great leader in the eyes of all the Israelites. They will know that I am with you, just as I was with Moses.“ ‭‭Joshua‬ ‭3‬:‭7‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

As Joshua was entering the Promised Land and fulfilling what God had told Moses to do, the Lord told him that He was going to make him a great leader in the eyes of his people that very day. He told him they will know that God is with you like He was with Moses. When God shows up strong, leadership is confirmed. God has a way of showing up and doing amazing things to confirm a leader is following Him. This lets people know the leader is a man or woman of God.

Application:

Jesus said, “These signs will follow those who believe…” The early apostle’s ministries were approved by the miracles, signs, and wonders that happened in and through them. We don’t want to minister out of our own will, but to do what God is speaking and have Him confirm that we are His servants. We need signs and wonders today to let the world know that God is with us. I don’t want to be self-promoted, but God-promoted. I want His approval to show up on everything I do.

Prayer:

Father, You are amazing and I love serving You. Let signs and wonders happen in and through my life. Confirm my calling in the eyes of Your people and those watching. I want to do Your will above all else in my life. Pour out Your Spirit. Heal the sick. Raise the dead. Cast out demons. Arise oh Lord and demonstrate Your power. Confirm my calling with Your presence and power.

Yours,

Jeff

Belief and Life

 Scripture:

”But these are written so that you may continue to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing in him you will have life by the power of his name.“ ‭‭John‬ ‭20‬:‭31‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

John says in this passage why he wrote the book of John. “So that you may continue to believe… and that by believing in him you will have life by the power of his name.” Believing here is connected with having life in His name. Life and belief are very interconnected. God is the author of life. All life comes from Him. Belief in God and His Son Jesus brings eternal life to us.

Application:

I want to walk in real Zoe Life. I want to live the abundant life Jesus promised. That starts with belief or faith. I want to live in intimacy with Christ and to fulfill His will for my life every day. I want my belief to bring the life He died and promised to give me. I want the life of God Almighty to course through my veins and to work in and through my life. I long to be an instrument in His hands. Therefore, I pray, increase my faith and belief.

Prayer:

Father, I believe, help my unbelief. Teach me to hear Your voice and to follow Your ways. You are amazing and I long to serve You well. Let Your life fill my life. Let Your will be done in my life. Let my life be completely surrendered to You. Open doors in front of me and close doors that are not from You. Help me to yield myself completely to You every day of my life.

Yours Forever,

Jeff

Oneness with the Father

 Scripture:

”As Jesus said “I Am he,” they all drew back and fell to the ground!“ ‭‭John‬ ‭18‬:‭6‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

When Jesus was about to be arrested and turned over to be beaten and crucified, He revealed His glory just a little bit. He simply said, “I Am he,” and the whole contingent of soldiers fell to the ground, overwhelmed by His glory. At this point, they understood who they were messing with. They all understood He wasn’t just another prisoner, but one who could call for 12 legions of angels to come and rescue Him. 

Application:

Jesus had just been speaking to His disciples about being one with the Father. When Jesus said, “I AM,” He was speaking truth. He was one with the Father, enough so that He could use the Father’s name. In this same passage, Jesus gives us the right to use His name. We must learn to walk in His power and reveal His glory. I look for the day when lost people are slain in the Spirit when they come against the Church. I look for the day when the glory of God fills the earth like water covers the sea.

Prayer:

Father, let me live fully yielded to You. I want oneness with my Father. I long to speak what You are speaking and to do what You are doing. When people see me, I want them to see You. Work in my life. Separate me, sanctify me, and let me reveal Your glory and awesome power to the world. 

Yours Forever, 

Jeff

Knowing and Doing

 Scripture:

”Now that you know these things, God will bless you for doing them.“ ‭‭John‬ ‭13‬:‭17‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

As Jesus was preparing to depart from this earth and be sacrificed on the cross, He said many powerful things to His disciples. He told them many things, then said, “Now that you know these things, God will bless you for doing them.” This statement stood out to me this morning  because i know many things, but God doesn’t bless us for knowing, He blesses us for doing.

Application:

It is not what we know or hear about Christ that God blesses. It is what we do with what we know. The application of knowledge is the priority for Jesus. He wants us to do the things we know we should be doing. His blessing always falls on obedience. Obedience to God puts us in the place of His blessing and I want to live a blessed life.

Prayer:

Father, I want to live a life that is blessed by You. Help me to obey the things You have already said through Your Word. Also, speak Your Rhema Word to me and let me walk in obedience to You above all else in my life. Let me live a life of obedience to You in the big things and in the small things. Let me hear Your voice and act accordingly. 

Your Son,

Jeff

Human Praise or God’s Praise?

 Scripture:

”Many people did believe in him, however, including some of the Jewish leaders. But they wouldn’t admit it for fear that the Pharisees would expel them from the synagogue. For they loved human praise more than the praise of God.“ ‭‭John‬ ‭12‬:‭42‬-‭43‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

John records here that many Jewish leaders believed in Jesus, but wouldn’t admit it for fear of being kicked out of the synagogue. It goes on the say, “They loved human praise more than the praise of God.” This saying is so powerful because it is a battle everyone faces to some level.

Application:

Do I fear humans more than God? That’s a question we must ask periodically. Do we love the praise of people so much that we don’t follow Jesus completely? Our goal needs to be obedience to Christ, no matter what the cost, but walking that out when we have people we love right in front of us 24/7. I like being liked, but I must choose following what God wants me to do over what will make people happy.

Prayer:

Father, I want to live a life of complete and total surrender to You and Your will. I want to say YES to whatever You ask me to do. Help me with the desire to be liked by people and strengthen me to desire Your will above making others happy. Let my trust and faith be completely in You and You alone. You are the shepherd and I want to know my shepherd’s voice and follow Him completely. Let my love for You be much greater than my desire to please people.

Yours Forever,

Jeff

His Will Above All

 Scripture:

”So Jesus explained, “I tell you the truth, the Son can do nothing by himself. He does only what he sees the Father doing. Whatever the Father does, the Son also does.“ ‭‭John‬ ‭5‬:‭19‬ ‭NLT‬

Observation:

Jesus lived in complete obedience to His Father. He says in this context that He could to nothing by Himself, but that He only does what He sees the Father doing. Whatever the Father does, the Son does. Jesus didn’t just do whatever He wanted. He did what the Father told Him to do and said what the Father wanted to be said.

Application:

I want to live in the place of complete surrender to the Father. I long to know what He is doing and what He is saying. I want to live like Jesus lived. Rather than doing my own will and asking God to bless it, I want to do His will and then I know it is blessed already. I don’t want to waste my life doing my will. I want to fulfill the will of my Father.

Prayer:

Father, open my ears that I may hear Your voice clearly. Open my eyes to see what You are doing. Show me step by step how to walk in complete obedience to You at all times. Let my life reflect Your will above all else. Teach me to follow Your ways and let me accomplish all that You have planned for my life. 

Forever Yours,

Jeff

Living Like the Wind

 Scripture:

”The wind blows wherever it wants. Just as you can hear the wind but can’t tell where it comes from or where it is going, so you can’t explain how people are born of the Spirit.” John‬ ‭3‬:‭8‬ ‭NLT‬

Observation:

Jesus uses this illustration to share what it is like to be born again. He says that wind blows wherever it wants and you can hear it but you can’t tell where it comes from or where it goes. In other words, it is hard to understand how people are born again. You can see the effects, but a heart change can’t be observed with the physical senses, it is a spiritual thing. You see the results in the lives of those who follow Him.

Application:

People who are led by the Spirit are sometimes hard to explain. They do things that may not make sense to others. I want to be truly led by the Spirit and not by my own ambitions or desires. I want a heart that flows with God and does His will at all times. I want my life to be like the wind, being blown by the Spirit wherever He wants me to go.

Prayer:

Lord God Almighty, You are great and awesome. Teach me to be Spirit led and Spirit empowered more and more each day. I want You to work through my life without measure, I don’t want to put any limits on what You do in me and through me. I am Yours, Lord. Fill me with Your precious Holy Spirit more and deeper. Take control of my life and future.

Yours,

Jeff‬

Life Giving Word

 Scripture:

”These instructions are not empty words—they are your life! By obeying them you will enjoy a long life in the land you will occupy when you cross the Jordan River.”“ ‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭32‬:‭47‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

As Moses was about to die and he was giving his last speech to the people of Israel, he told them that God’s instructions, laws, decrees, etc. were not empty words, but “they are your life!” He finishes by saying that by obeying them, the people would enjoy a long life. I was grabbed by the phrase, they are your life, this morning. God’s word is not just a good idea. It is life! It sustains us and gives us strength.

Application:

God’s laws a commands are not burdensome, they are life! We have to stop looking at God’s ways as limitations and restrictions and see it as LIFE. God’s word is powerful and His ways are perfect. The more we align ourselves with Him and His word, the more we will enjoy a great life. As I get older, I want to finish strong and do everything God wants me to do. I want to live life to the fullest and experience the goodness of God. Therefore, I must be a student of His Word and a follower of His commands.

Prayer:

Father, I want my life to please You. I want to live a life you can bless. I want my life to be fruitful and to multiply what You have put in my hands. Show me how to live my life day by day and step by step. Align me with Your word and convict me when I get off track. Guide me with Your word and teach me to walk as You have prescribed for your people.

Yours,

Jeff

Obedience Brings Multiplication

 Scripture:

”For I command you this day to love the Lord your God and to keep his commands, decrees, and regulations by walking in his ways. If you do this, you will live and multiply, and the Lord your God will bless you and the land you are about to enter and occupy.“ ‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭30‬:‭16‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

In this passage Moses is giving his final speech to the people of Israel. He is ready to turn the reigns over to Joshua and depart the scene. He tells them that they need to love God and keep His commands and walk in His ways. He tells them that if they do this, they will live and multiply, and see the blessing of God in the land they were going into.

Application:

I see here that a life of obedience brings multiplication. This year our theme at the church is multiplication. Here it tells us that obedience to God’s ways, decrees, and commands, brings multiplication. We can’t just do our own thing and live how we want to live and expect God to multiply our effectiveness. He wants us to walk in obedience above all else, then He decides to bless us, prosper us, and multiply us.

Prayer:

father, let my life bring honor to Your name. Empower me to live in a way that pleases You. Teach me to follow You well and to walk in obedience at all times. Holy Spirit open my ears and speak to me. Then give me to power and strength to do whatever You speak. I want to serve You well in my generation, then hear well done good and faithful servant when I see You face to face.

Your Son,

Jeff

Our Choice

 Scripture:

”If you do not serve the Lord your God with joy and enthusiasm for the abundant benefits you have received, you will serve your enemies whom the Lord will send against you. You will be left hungry, thirsty, naked, and lacking in everything. The Lord will put an iron yoke on your neck, oppressing you harshly until he has destroyed you.“ ‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭28‬:‭47‬-‭48‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

Deuteronomy 28 is a listing of the blessings of obeying God and curses when Israel would not obey God. When following God completely, He promises incredible blessings. This particular verse is in the midst of the curses, but is powerful. It says that you will either serve the Lord with joy and enthusiasm, or you will serve your enemies. A simple, yet powerful, way to make that statement, but so true.

Application:

Jesus said you can’t serve God and money. Here it says you can serve God enthusiastically or you will serve your enemies. God wants to be first place in our lives. He doesn’t want to be second to anything or anyone. We must serve the Lord with joy and enthusiasm, and not just with our lips. He wants our full heart.

Prayer:

Father, help me to follow You with joy and enthusiasm. I don’t want to be half-hearted in my walk with You. Teach me to hear Your voice and to know Your ways. Bless my family. Let those around me know You more and more. Work in my life to produce what You desire. I am Yours. Fill me. Use me for Your kingdom. I love You with all my heart.

Yours Forever,

Jeff

Responsibility for My Children

 Scripture:

”“Parents must not be put to death for the sins of their children, nor children for the sins of their parents. Those deserving to die must be put to death for their own crimes.“ ‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭24‬:‭16‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

This portion of scripture is a listing of many laws and rules the people of Israel were given by God on how to live throughout their generations. In this verse God speaks about parents being responsible for the actions of their children and children for the sins of the parents. He says those deserving punishment should get the punishment and that parents can’t be punished for the sins of their children.

Application:

Many times as parents we feel responsible for what our children do. Often we take responsibility and place ourselves in bondage thinking if we had done a better job raising them, that they wouldn’t be doing what they are doing. I need to be confident that I did the best I could as a parent and that my sons will stand before God for what they do or don’t do. I also don’t want to feel less valued as a parent because my children are not doing what they should. 

Prayer:

Father, help me as a parent not to feel so responsible for my children’s actions. Help me to release them to You knowing that I taught them well and that I won’t stand before You on account of what they do or don’t do. Help me to release feelings of failure when my kids do things I don’t like them doing.

Yours Forever,

Jeff

Be Generous to the Poor

 Scripture:

”“There should be no poor among you, for the Lord your God will greatly bless you in the land he is giving you as a special possession... Give generously to the poor, not grudgingly, for the Lord your God will bless you in everything you do.“ ‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭15‬:‭4‬, ‭10‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

As God’s people were entering the Promised Land, He gave them instructions about everything to remind them of their covenant with Him. When they were blessed in the land He was giving them, there was to be no poor among them because of the generosity of God’s people. He told them to give generously to the poor, not grudgingly, then the Lord would bless them.

Application:

God has always looked for a people where He could eradicate poverty. Jesus came to preach Good News to the poor. God blesses us so that we can take care of the poor among us. We must not see the poor as a bad investment of resources, but as God’s people who we are commanded to take care of. God has a big heart for the poor, and we must shift our thinking in this area. God blesses us so that we can be a blessing to others.

Prayer:

Father, share with me Your heart for the poor. Show me what I should be doing for the poor on a regular basis. Help me to help those who can’t help themselves. Teach me to honor You well in this department. Let me never see blessing the poor as a bad investment because of business training, but as an act of obedience to God that You will bless.

Yours Forever,

Jeff

Strength Through Obedience

 Scripture:

“Therefore, be careful to obey every command I am giving you today, so you may have strength to go in and take over the land you are about to enter.“ ‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭11‬:‭8‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

God is speaking to His people just prior to them entering the Promised Land that flows with milk and honey. There are enemies in the land and they are going to need lots of strength to defeat them. Rather than telling them to work out and prepare themselves for battle, He tells them to be careful to obey every command He gave them that day. Obedience to God gives you the strength to fulfill His plans for your life.

Application:

Whatever we are facing, strength comes through obedience to the Lord. When we obey Him completely, He is glorified and His blessings begin to flow. He doesn’t bless what we want to do. He blesses obedience to Him and His word. When we do things God’s way, we get God’s results. Rather than focusing on strength, we need to focus on obedience because obedience will give us the strength we need for whatever we may face.

Prayer:

Lord God Almighty, You are faithful and true. You are powerful and glorious. You are mighty and majestic. Empower me to walk in obedience to You at all times. Let me hear Your voice clearly and help me to obey whatever I hear. I want to know You more. Help me to focus on the right things and know You will give me what I need to do Your will.

Yours Forever,

Jeff

Be Careful

 Scripture:

“But that is the time to be careful! Beware that in your plenty you do not forget the Lord your God and disobey his commands, regulations, and decrees that I am giving you today.“ ‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭8‬:‭11‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

Just prior to entering into the Promised Land after 40 years in the wilderness, God told His people to be careful. He was about to bless them and give them land that wasn’t theirs. He was going to empower them to kick out the inhabitants of the land they were going to see the goodness of God. He also told them to be careful not to forget the Lord or disobey His commands when they were blessed.

Application:

Sometimes success is our greatest enemy. When God brings us success in the world’s eyes, we have to be careful not to forget that it is all about the Lord and everything good is His doing and not our own. Sometimes when we are successful in people’s eyes, we tend to think we have accomplished things but as believers, God gets all the praise and honor for any good things in our lives. When He blesses us, we must shift the glory all back to Him.

Prayer:

Lord God, help me to never become prideful, but to realize when You bless me. Help me to know where my success comes from. And to walk in humility before You and others. You reject the proud and give grace to the humble. Teach me to walk in obedience and humility. I will be careful to give You all the praise and glory for whatever good things happen in and through my life. 

Yours Forever,

Jeff

The Heart of God

 Scripture:

”Oh, that they would always have hearts like this, that they might fear me and obey all my commands! If they did, they and their descendants would prosper forever.“ ‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭5‬:‭29‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

In this passage one can hear the heart of God and the reason for all His commands and decrees. He was entering a Covenant with Israel and wanted to bless them, but He could only bless them according to their obedience to the Covenant. He cries out here, “Oh, that they would always have hearts like this… and obey my commands… If they did, they and their descendants would prosper forever.”

Application:

God wants to bless His children more than His children want to be blessed. His heart cries out in this passage for people to follow His ways so He could bless them. Still today, God looks for those who will completely obey Him. He wants to bless us, but we must walk in obedience to His voice, His word, and His ways. When we do things God’s ways, His blessing follows. His hearts cry is for us to obey, not to ruin our lives, but so He can bless us with His incredible blessings.

Prayer:

Father, align my life so I can walk in Your complete and total blessing. I long to serve You well in my generation. Thank You for all You have blessed me with to this point, but I long to walk in complete obedience. Open doors before me and let Your kingdom come in my life. Let Your will be done above my own. I want to live surrendered to You at all times. Show me the way forward and let me walk in Your blessing.

Yours Forever,

JEff

Seek the Lord

 Scripture:

”But from there you will search again for the Lord your God. And if you search for him with all your heart and soul, you will find him.“ ‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭4‬:‭29‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

As Moses was preparing to die, he reaffirmed God’s covenant with His people. He told them if they obeyed, they would be blessed but if they disobeyed, they would be defeated by their enemies. Here the Lord told them how to come back to Him if they messed up on following the covenant. He said, “search again for the Lord you God. And if you search for him with all your heart and soul, you will find him.” This is repeated many times in the OT and it always blesses my heart.

Application:

God has said over and over in His Word that we would find Him when we seek for Him with all our heart and soul. He promised that if we would seek Him, we would find Him. He left the responsibility on us to turn to Him and seek Him out. He wants His people to seek Him and pursue Him. He doesn’t usually come to us until we start moving toward Him. Once we start to seek Him, He allows Himself to be found by us. 

Prayer:

Father, it has always been my desire to live a life of holy pursuit. I want to live a life of seeking You. Thank You for often letting me find You. Your presence is life to me. Your presence in my life is my everything. As the deer pants for the water, so my soul longs after You. I want to know You more intimately. I want to hear Your voice. I long for more of You. You are my heart’s desire.

Yours Forever,

Jeff 

Polluted Land

 Scripture:

”This will ensure that the land where you live will not be polluted, for murder pollutes the land. And no sacrifice except the execution of the murderer can purify the land from murder.“ ‭‭Numbers‬ ‭35‬:‭33‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

God was giving His people rules about when they enter the Promised Land and how to live there. He said that murders must be killed. Accidental death at the hands of someone else had other consequences, but murder required execution because only execution would purify the land from murder. God was very strong against murder because it pollutes the land.

Application:

There are so many murders in the United States that go with no punishment. We have polluted the land Biblically. This word tells us that execution of murderers purifies the land. This doesn’t even touch the issue of abortion and the taking of innocent lives. Our land is polluted. Thank God for the blood of Jesus that cleanses from all sin and disobedience. Thank God for Christ paying the price for our sins. 

Prayer:

Father, cleanse our land with the blood of Jesus. Wash our land and cleanse it from all disobedience. Bring revival to this land once again. Pour out Your Spirit and bring a cleansing of sin and its consequences. Let a move of God in the area of repentance come forth. Let this nation be turned around and forgive our many areas of rebellion. 

Yours,

Jeff

Public Commissioning

 Scripture:

”The Lord replied, “Take Joshua son of Nun, who has the Spirit in him, and lay your hands on him.“ ‭‭Numbers‬ ‭27‬:‭18‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

When Moses was going to be taken from the scene of Israel’s history he was told that he couldn’t go into the Promised Land, but God allowed him to go up on a mountain to see it and to die there. As he was preparing for the end of his life, God told him to commission his replacement. This is what spiritual fathers do, they set their spiritual sons and daughters up for success.

Application:

Commissioning a person in ministry gives them confidence and the understanding that the person doing the commissioning believes in them, trusts them, and validates their life and ministry. It also allows the entire congregation to see the transfer of authority publicly, giving that person authority in the people’s eyes as well. I need to be more serious and intentional about public commissioning of people. I don’t want to take it too lightly, but I want it to be significant.

Prayer:

Lord God Almighty, You are great and glorious. You are from everlasting to everlasting. You never change and are the epitome of love. Show me how to effectively commission ministries and people for Your kingdom. I want to do what You are pleased with and not just what I want to do. Help me to always walk in obedience to You and Your words.

Yours Forever,

Jeff

Open My Eyes and Ears

 Scripture:

”This is the message Balaam delivered: “This is the message of Balaam son of Beor, the message of the man whose eyes see clearly, the message of one who hears the words of God, who has knowledge from the Most High, who sees a vision from the Almighty, who bows down with eyes wide open:“ ‭‭Numbers‬ ‭24‬:‭15‬-‭16‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

I see here the description of Balaam as something I want to be like. It says that his eyes see clearly, he hears the words of God, has knowledge from the Most High, who sees a vision from the Almighty, and who bows down with eyes wide open.

Application:

I want to walk with God at this level. I long for my eyes to see clearly what God wants to do in every situation. I long to hear God’s words accurately and to knowledge directly from Him. I long to see visions and to be a person of worship, who bows before the Lord. I want to know God at a deeper level and to be a carrier of His words and visions to people. I want to hear accurately and do whatever He says.

Prayer:

Father, once again I pray, open my eyes to see what You are doing. Open my ears to hear what You are speaking. Open my spirit to communicate with You. I don’t want to minister out of my own well and resources, but want to minister out of the abundance of Your goodness and I want to deliver exactly what You are speaking to the people You allow me to serve. I want to hear clearly and speak clearly whatever You want to say.

Your Son,

Jeff

Walking with the Right People

 Scripture:

”“The time has come for Aaron to join his ancestors in death. He will not enter the land I am giving the people of Israel, because the two of you rebelled against my instructions concerning the water at Meribah.“ ‭‭Numbers‬ ‭20‬:‭24‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

In this passage Aaron is about to die and the Lord says he will not enter the Promised Land because Aaron and Moses rebelled against the instructions of the Lord at Meribah. Meribah is where Moses struck the rock to provide water instead of speaking to the rock like the Lord told him to do. In that passage, I don’t see where Aaron did anything wrong. They both fell facedown before the Lord and the Lord spoke, but it was Moses who disobeyed.

Application:

We have to beware of the company we keep. In this passage Aaron is punished for the sin Moses committed, maybe because he was there and did nothing about it. Maybe because he didn’t speak up to Moses. We are not told exactly why, but it says he and Moses rebelled against the Lord. I do see that it was Moses who struck the rock, but Aaron called the people together and generally he was the spokesperson for Moses. Maybe he spoke and Moses hit the rock. We are not told, but we do see him being punished for something  he did with Moses.

Prayer:

Father, let me keep the right company. Help me to stay around the right people and to be influenced by the right people. I want to be pure before You and to walk humbly before You. Show me how to walk and who to walk with that I may please You completely.

Yours,

Jeff

Giving God Our Best

 Scripture:

”Be sure to give to the Lord the best portions of the gifts given to you.“ ‭‭Numbers‬ ‭18‬:‭29‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

This passage is speaking to the Levites concerning the tithe. The people brought their tithes to the Levites, who lived off of the tithes of the people. This passage reminds them that they, as well, must bring the best portion of the best gifts they had received as their tithe to the Lord. Their tithe ended up being the best 10% of the best 10% of the people. God wanted them to give their very best to Him as their act of worship.

Application:

When we give to God, we should always give Him our very best, whether that is in worship, work, attitude, praise, resources, etc. God is worthy of the best offerings we can bring Him. He shouldn’t get our leftovers, but the best part of our lives. Like David, we don’t want to offer to the Lord that which costs us nothing.

Prayer:

Father, I want to give You my very best. I want to honor You in every way possible. Let my life be a life that brings You sacrificial praise and worship. Let me never be skimpy on my offerings, but let me give in response to all You have given me. You gave me Your best when You sent Your Son. Enable me to give the best of my life to You.

Yours Forever,

Jeff

Reminder of the Covenant

 Scripture:

”Blow the trumpets in times of gladness, too, sounding them at your annual festivals and at the beginning of each month. And blow the trumpets over your burnt offerings and peace offerings. The trumpets will remind your God of his covenant with you. I am the Lord your God.”“ Numbers‬ ‭10‬:‭10‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

This passage speaks about how trumpets were to be used in Israel as they were coming out of Egypt. Trumpets served several purposes like assembling the people, gathering the troops, etc. They were also used for celebration, sacrifice, and offerings. It says here that the trumpets will remind God of His covenant with you.

Application:

Just as trumpets were for ancient Israel, communion is a reminder of Gods covenant through the blood of Jesus. The word is also a reminder of the covenant. Sometimes we have to remind God of His covenant with us. As the trumpet was a reminder to God, we can remind God of His word and His covenant. This isn’t rude or wrong, it is just a reminder. God doesn’t forget, but doesn’t mind being reminded either.

Prayer:

Father, Your Word says I am healed by the blood of Jesus. It says we will lay hands on the sick and they will recover. It says with faith nothing shall be impossible. I need healing. My wife needs healing. Let us be made completely whole in the name of Jesus. Let me walk in faith and not sight. Increase my faith to truly believe everything You have said.

Yours,

Jeff

Wait Here

 Scripture:

”Moses answered, “Wait here until I have received instructions for you from the Lord.”“ ‭‭Numbers‬ ‭9‬:‭8‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

The people came to Moses about not being able to follow Passover because they were unclean from touching something that was dead. They wanted to worship the Lord, but were prohibited. Moses had great instruction for them, “Wait here until I have received instructions for you from the Lord.” He didn’t answer on behalf of the the Lord without going to the Lord and hearing from Him. 

Application:

Sometimes it is better to wait to hear from the Lord rather than to move forward on things. Many times we march ahead rather than seeking the Lord’s direction. I need to spend time seeking the Lord rather than simply doing what feels right at the time. As a spiritual leader, I need a word from God on things. I need clear direction from the Lord.

Prayer:

Lord God Almighty, You are worthy of my worship and honor. You are my everything. Help me to seek You before answering every questions. Help me not to simply answer based on what I feel would be right, but to seek a word from God concerning whatever it is. Teach me to be a man of God who does exactly what the Lord wants Him to do.

Yours,

Jeff

The Blessing

 Scripture:

”‘May the Lord bless you and protect you. May the Lord smile on you and be gracious to you. May the Lord show you his favor and give you his peace.’ Whenever Aaron and his sons bless the people of Israel in my name, I myself will bless them.”“ ‭‭Numbers‬ ‭6‬:‭24‬-‭27‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

In this passage we see that God gave Aaron and his sons a special way to bless His people. He told them that when they blessed people in this way that He would also bless them. God gave us a way to speak blessing on people and He promised to back it up with His blessing. This passage should make us want to speak it over and over again over everyone close to us.

Application:

When we do things God’s way, we get God’s results. When we speak this blessing, He will work in the lives of those we speak it over. In the New Testament we are a kingdom of priests and have the right to speak this blessing. I need to be more diligent to speak this over my family, my church family, and those around me.

Prayer:

Father, help me to do things Your way and see Your results. I long to see You bless Word of Life in every way. I long to see You bless the people of the house in powerful ways. Let testimonies of Your blessing overtake the people of our church. Let my family be blessed. Let me remember to speak this blessing often.

Yours Forever,

Jeff

Precise Obedience

 Scripture:

”So the people of Israel did everything as the Lord had commanded Moses. Each clan and family set up camp and marched under their banners exactly as the Lord had instructed them.“ ‭‭Numbers‬ ‭2‬:‭34‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

The people of Israel were coming out of Egypt and beginning their wilderness travels. They would spend the next 40 years living in the wilderness. Even in the wilderness, God had very specific plans and tasks for them to do. He told them exactly what they were to do, and they did it with precise obedience. They set everything up exactly how the Lord wanted them to because they needed God’s protection and provision throughout their journey.

Application:

We must learn to walk in precise obedience. When God asks us to do something, we must not only say yes, but we must walk it out precisely how He wants us to. As for me, I don’t want to get to heaven and hear how much I missed out on because of partial or lack of obedience. I want to obey everything the Lord calls me to do. He is worthy of all I have and I trust my life to His hands.

Prayer:

Father, empower me to walk in precise obedience, not partial obedience. Help me to do everything You want me to do. Teach me Your ways and direct my steps. Show me every detail and give me strength to obey you to the end. Let me life be a life of precise obedience.

Your Son,

Jeff

When Hope is Lost

 Scripture:

”We had hoped he was the Messiah who had come to rescue Israel. This all happened three days ago.“ ‭‭Luke‬ ‭24‬:‭21‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

Jesus had died, was buried, and resurrected from the dead. In this story, He was found talking to a couple of people who were on the road to Emmaus. They didn’t realize it was Jesus who was talking to them. They carried on a conversation for quite a while before they sat down to eat with Him and their eyes were opened. They suddenly realized who He was and who had been talking to them. In their conversation with Jesus, they said, “We had hoped he was the Messiah who had come to rescue Israel.” Their hope had been taken away and they couldn’t see what was standing right in front of them.

Application:

Hope is powerful! When we give up hope, we can’t see what may be right in front of us. When we give up hope, Jesus Himself could walk into our lives and we wouldn’t recognize Him. Hopelessness leads to terrible places in people’s lives. We need to learn to stand on the Word of God and not our own feelings or emotions. When bad things happen, we cannot allow ourselves to get hopeless. 

Prayer:

Father, help me to never walk in hopelessness, but to walk knowing that You are in control and that everything can change in a moment of time. Teach me to trust You more and to never feel hopeless because I serve the God who bring hope to people. Let me always be hopeful about the future because I trust in You and Your word. Let me be a beacon of hope to people who are hopeless.

Yours Forever,

Jeff

Seek and Save

Scripture:

”Jesus responded, “Salvation has come to this home today, for this man has shown himself to be a true son of Abraham. For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.” ‭‭Luke‬ ‭19‬:‭9‬-‭10‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

The story of Jesus and Zacchaeus is a beautiful picture of the heart of Jesus. Zacchaeus climbed a tree looking for Jesus and Jesus saw him. When they met, Jesus called him by name and invited Himself over for dinner at Zacchaeus’ house. They both knew something special was happening that day. Jesus knew he had changed when He saw Zacchaeus ready to give away all his money. Jesus closed the story with a comment about His heart, “the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.”

Application:

We must be ready for divine appointments and realize when we are in the middle of one. Jesus knew He had an appointment at Zacchaeus’ house that day and was prepared to work it out and take the heat from religious people because He knew why He was there. His heart was to seek and save the lost, therefore, He made this interaction a priority. He also took the time and risked His own reputation to see this lost man come to repentance. 

Prayer:

Father, make me Spirit-sensitive. Help me to walk in step with You and to be willing and ready to seek and save the lost. Let my life be used for Your glory. I want to do exactly what You want me to do at all times. Help me to not pre-judge people, but to see in them what You see in them. I want to be like Jesus.

Yours Forever,

Jeff 

Take the Lowest Place

 Scripture:

”“Instead, take the lowest place at the foot of the table. Then when your host sees you, he will come and say, ‘Friend, we have a better place for you!’ Then you will be honored in front of all the other guests.“ ‭‭Luke‬ ‭14‬:‭10‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

Jesus gives an illustration here to make the point that we should not seek the highest place at the table, but the lowest place. He said it was better to put yourself in the lowest place, then the owner of the house will come and put you in a better place. If you put yourself in the highest place, someone higher might come and you will be asked to step down. Better to humble ourselves and be exalted than to exalt ourselves and be humbled.

Application:

Paul tells us that we shouldn’t think more of ourselves than we really are. Jesus tells us to humble ourselves and allow Him and others to lift us up. Our place is to serve people as Jesus did. He placed the needs of others ahead of His own needs. It is much better to walk in humility and let God lift you up than to lift yourself up and have God lower you. Humility always wins in the Bible.

Prayer:

Lord, teach me to walk in humility. Help me to love others well and to humble myself and be more like You. You are faithful and good. Help me to exemplify You in everything I do. Let my life represent You well. Forgive me for my pride and help me to remain humble. Lead me by Your Spirit into all truth and help me to serve You well. Let this year be a year of multiplication and blessing for my life, my family, the church I pastor, the region we live in, and the nations of the world.  Help me to lead well.

Forever Yours,

Jeff

The Kingdom

 Scripture:

”Heal the sick, and tell them, ‘The Kingdom of God is near you now.’“ ‭‭Luke‬ ‭10‬:‭9‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

Jesus told His disciples to go out and spread the Good News. In this passage they were told to heal the sick and tell them the Kingdom of God is near you now. He relates healing with the kingdom coming near them. We know in heaven we see the fulness of God’s kingdom and there is no sickness or disease. We are on earth praying Thy Kingdom Come, Thy will be done. What we are saying is that we want heaven to invade earth and for earth to look more like heaven.

Application:

I need to understand the Kingdom more and more in my life. I understand at a human level, but feel the need to understand at a greater level what it means when we say the Kingdom is near you. I want to not only understand it, but walk in it as My Father would want me to. I will be praying, “Thy Kingdom come and Thy will be done” more and more in my life.

Prayer:

Father, show me and help me to understand Your kingdom. Let Your kingdom come in my life, my family, my church, and the world around me. Help me to understand Your kingdom and how to walk in the fulness of it hear on earth while waiting for the full expression of it. Align me with Your word and let Your truths penetrate my heart.

Yours Forever,

Jeff

Take Up Your Cross

 Scripture:

”Then he said to the crowd, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross daily, and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it.“ ‭‭Luke‬ ‭9‬:‭23‬-‭24‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

Jesus says here that if anyone wants to be His follower, they must give up their own way and take their cross daily and follow Him. Saving your life, He told them, is giving up your life. There is a cost to following Jesus. We can’t live our own way and do what we want. Following Jesus means taking up our cross every day and following Him. It means His will is more important than my will.

Application:

Walking with God means total surrender. God asks us to forsake all and follow Him. Our place of greatest blessing is the place of greatest denial. As we surrender our lives to God, He then gives us the desires of our heart. When we live to honor Him and obey Him, He will bless our lives completely. Our pursuit must always be Him and His will, not whatever we want out of life.

Prayer:

Father, I submit myself to you once again this morning. You are worthy of my very best. You are holy and righteous, and glorious. Help me to follow You completely and to finish my race strong. I long to hear, “Well done my good and faithful servant.” Help me to pick up my cross daily and follow You completely. 

Yours,

Jeff

Fruit

 Scripture:

”A tree is identified by its fruit. Figs are never gathered from thornbushes, and grapes are not picked from bramble bushes. A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart. What you say flows from what is in your heart.“ ‭‭Luke‬ ‭6‬:‭44‬-‭45‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

Jesus says here that a tree is identified by its fruit. Our lives are identified by what we produce. Rather than what we think we are, we are what comes from within us. Everything flows out of the heart and from the heart cafe or death, blessing or cursing. 

Application:

If people examine my life, would they believe Jesus is the only and best way to live? If people look at the fruit on my tree and what comes out of me, would they know beyond the shadow of a doubt that Christ is in me and that He flows from my heart? I want to be able to answer those questions well and to be in a place where I can exemplify Christ to a hurting world around me. 

Prayer:

Lord God Almighty, live big in me. Teach me to walk abiding in the vine and allowing Christ to form and fashion my life. Let my words be Your words. Let my thoughts be Your thoughts. Teach me to walk in step with Your Spirit at all times and let me represent You well every day. Let me respond how You would want me to respond.

Forever Yours,

Jeff

Stir My Heart

Scripture:

 ”While the incense was being burned, a great crowd stood outside, praying. While Zechariah was in the sanctuary, an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing to the right of the incense altar.“ ‭‭Luke‬ ‭1‬:‭10‬-‭11‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

There had been 400 years of silence between the testaments. There had been no revelation and no prophetic words going forth, yet on this day there was a great crowd gathered outside the Temple and were praying while Zechariah offered incense to the Lord. God was apparently drawing people to Himself for a great crowd to be assembled and praying. Possibly it was a feast day, but it is astounding that after hundreds of years of silence, people were gathered at the place of prayer. There must have been a sense that God was up to something.

Application:

When God is about to move, there is a sense among people that something is coming. God has a way of preparing people for what He is about to do. He stirs the hearts of people and causes them to hunger and thirst for Him. Though today it seems that God is far from people’s hearts, I sense a stirring in the Spirit that God is about to do something in this nation. I believe God is pulling at the hearts of His people to return to Him. Something is up and we must respond when God speaks.

Prayer:

Father, I don’t want to miss out on anything You want me to do. If You are going to move, I want to know about it. I want to be one of the ones at the temple in prayer when things are about to change. Pull me by Your Spirit and draw me to where I need to be at all times. I am Yours.

Forever,

Jeff

Set Apart and Holy

 Scripture:

”You must be holy because I, the Lord, am holy. I have set you apart from all other people to be my very own.“ ‭‭Leviticus‬ ‭20‬:‭26‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

God is speaking to His people, the people of Israel, and He tells them that they must be holy because He had set them apart from all other people to be His very own. He desired a people who would be His very own and who would represent Him well on the earth. 

Application:

God has always wanted a people who would be completely His so He could be their God and they could be His people. Since Christ, we Gentiles have been grafted into His family and accepted as sons and daughters. We must be holy as He is holy. We must be set apart for His glory and honor. My life needs to be completely God’s. I must live set apart for Him. That is what sanctification is. I want to live a sanctified life that bring God glory and that is separated for His purposes.

Prayer:

Father, show me how to live a holy life that is set apart for You and Your kingdom. Teach me to walk in Your authority as a son. I want You to know You can trust me and I want to be Your very own. I want my life to be separated for Your purposes and not my own. Teach me to live completely for You. Bless my life, my family, my church, and my region.

Yours Forever,

Jeff

EXACT Obedience

 Scripture:

”This is a permanent law for you, to purify the people of Israel from their sins, making them right with the Lord once each year.” Moses followed all these instructions exactly as the Lord had commanded him.“ ‭‭Leviticus‬ ‭16‬:‭34‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

This passage and the previous laid out exactly how the priests were to serve the Lord and offer sacrifices to purify the land and the people. It says here that Moses followed all these instruction EXACTLY as the Lord had commanded them. These were very distinct and particular laws for God’s worship. God let it be clear what was expected and Moses followed every detail.

Application:

I often say that God gives more revelation to those who hear and obey. Why should He give us more when we are not doing what we already know? We need to fulfill every detail of how God wants us to live, then we can expect more revelation about things. I want to serve God well in my generation and to accomplish all He has for me. I need to walk in complete obedience at all times.

Prayer:

Father, You are worthy of my very best! You are holy, righteous, and mighty. You are majestic and powerful. You are the best and I want to offer You myself once again this morning. Help me to live EXACTLY how You want me to live. Help me to walk in step with Your Spirit and never miss out on what You want. 

Forever Yours,

Jeff

God and the Poor

Scripture:

 ”“Then the priest will offer the two turtledoves or the two young pigeons, whichever the person can afford.“ ‭‭Leviticus‬ ‭14‬:‭30‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

These chapters of Leviticus speak clearly of how to deal with diseases and impurities. They require certain offerings when a person is considered cleansed. I love this verse because it gives an option for those who can’t afford the required offering. God understands when people don’t have enough money and He gives them options. They still need to be cleansed, but can offer a more affordable option. 

Application:

We have to look out for the needs of the poor. God always takes the poor into consideration and we must as well. He makes Himself available to the poor and the needy. We should help people follow God, no matter how much money they have, or don’t have. Money should never be a hindrance for those who come to God. 

Prayer:

Father, help me never to judge those who are poor. You have blessed my life and helped me through many difficult financial situations. Help me to have grace and mercy on those who are where I have been in my life. Help me to never judge people who are poor, but to help them to rise up and walk in Your blessing. Teach me the difference between being a help and being an enabler.

Yours Forever,

Jeff

Distinguish

 Scripture:

”You must distinguish between what is sacred and what is common, between what is ceremonially unclean and what is clean.“ ‭‭Leviticus‬ ‭10‬:‭10‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

God spoke to Moses and told him that the priests needed to distinguish between what is sacred and what is common, between the unclean and the clean. In other words, there are things we need to stay away from and things we must treat as holy and separate. In the New Testament, Jesus provided all the sacrifice we will ever again need. We are no longer under obligation to live under the OT laws, but we still must learn to distinguish between holy and unholy.

Application:

The challenge for us today is to live holy without falling into legalism and tradition. There are things we need to stay away from because they are not holy. We have to use our discernment instead of a written law. Paul said that all things were permissible, but not all things are good for you. Our job is to distinguish between the two and to live lives that are holy before God, while realizing that we cannot be holy but by the blood of Jesus.

Prayer:

Father, I want to be holy, but I don’t want to be a religious Pharisee. I want to live a life that honors You completely and is separate from the world, yet is not just religious. I want to live with the holiness of Christ. I want Christ to live in me and through me every day, showing me how to live and what to stay away from and what to run to. Lead me Holy Spirit, and I will follow You.

Yours Forever,

Jeff

Preparation for the Glory

 Scripture:

”Then Moses and Aaron went into the Tabernacle, and when they came back out, they blessed the people again, and the glory of the Lord appeared to the whole community. Fire blazed forth from the Lord’s presence and consumed the burnt offering and the fat on the altar. When the people saw this, they shouted with joy and fell face down on the ground.“ ‭‭Leviticus‬ ‭9‬:‭23‬-‭24‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

God gave very specific requirements to the priests and Levites about what offerings to present to Him and how to present them. When they did the requirement God had set up, He showed up! When they had done everything the Lord wanted them to do, His presence blazed like fire and consumed the offering. The people saw this, shouted with joy, and fell face down. They were in total amazement at the manifest presence of the Lord.

Application:

When we do things God’s way, we get God’s results. He is worthy of being followed in his way and not our own. When the Word tells us to do certain things, we must walk in it wholeheartedly. When we follow God’s ways, we can expect His presence and power in our lives. The supernatural happens when we do what is expected in the natural. When we do our part, God does His.

Prayer:

Father, I love this story and how You manifested Your glory among Your people. I long to see the supernatural things of God and to see people respond to Your glory. I want to see Your glory and for people to respond to Your presence. Teach me to walk in Your ways and to operate in and from Your presence. Teach me to hear Your voice and do exactly what You tell me to do. I want to please You and to work together with You for the extension of Your kingdom.

Yours,

Jeff

No Defects

 Scripture:

”“If you present an animal from the herd as a peace offering to the Lord, it may be a male or a female, but it must have no defects.“ ‭‭Leviticus‬ ‭3‬:‭1‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

These first three chapters of Leviticus talk about bringing offerings to the Lord. This verse tells us that if we present an animal from the herd, it must have no defects. God wanted a pure and perfect sacrifice. He didn’t want people to offer Him their worst of the flock or the weakest of the flock. God wanted the very best of the flock.

Application:

When we serve God, we should always give Him our very best. We don’t have to offer sacrifices of animals anymore because of the perfect sacrifice of Christ, but we offer Him our lives daily. We should always give God the firstfruits, the best of what we get. He doesn’t want our leftovers. He wants our sacrifice.

Prayer:

Father, let my life be an acceptable sacrifice to You. I lay myself before You today and declare that I want to give You my very best. I don’t want to hold back my gifts, talents, treasures, etc. from You. I offer You my life. I want to live a life that brings honor to Your name. 

Yours Forever,

Jeff

Miraculous Signs Everywhere

 Scripture:

”When the Lord Jesus had finished talking with them, he was taken up into heaven and sat down in the place of honor at God’s right hand. And the disciples went everywhere and preached, and the Lord worked through them, confirming what they said by many miraculous signs.“ ‭‭Mark‬ ‭16‬:‭19‬-‭20‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

After the resurrection, Jesus spoke with His disciples and demonstrated that He was alive and well. In Mark’s version He rebuked them for not believing He was alive when they heard it from several people. After He spoke with them and commissioned them, He was taken up into heaven and sat down at God’s right hand. At that point the disciples went EVERYWHERE and preached, and the Lord worked through them confirming what they said with many miraculous signs.

Application:

The early disciples went everywhere doing what Jesus did. They taught and preached the Word of God and the resurrection from the dead. God confirmed what they preached with many miraculous signs. I believe personally that the preaching of the Gospel should be confirmed with signs following. We are not to chase after signs, but Jesus said they would follow us. The world today needs to see more signs and wonders to demonstrate who Jesus is. We must pray until that happens.

Prayer:

Father, You are incredible! You are worthy of all my praise. I want to see Your kingdom extended in all the earth. I long to see You move in power and to display signs and wonders to confirm the message of the cross as I preach it. Help me to discern next steps to seeing the miraculous signs the early disciples saw. Loudoun County needs to hear that there are miracles happening as a proof of Your existence. Demonstrate Your power oh Lord.

Yours Forever,

Jeff

Deserted

 Scripture:

”Then all his disciples deserted him and ran away.“ ‭‭Mark‬ ‭14‬:‭50‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

Jesus started out His ministry with thousands following Him. He was a rock star in his day with huge crowds of people wanting to hear Him. When it came to the end, everyone, including His disciples, deserted Him and ran away when He was arrested. He understands what it feels like to have people desert you and walk away from you.

Application:

Jesus knows everything we go through. When people walk away from us and the crowds diminish, He had been there and felt what we experience. When we are rejected by those who were close to us in the past, Jesus understands. He has been tempted in all points like we are, yet without sin. I hate losing people and having them upset with me and I need God’s help when people walk away.

Prayer:

Father, help me to do everything You ask me to do. Help me to do the right things, even when people walk away. Give me strength to walk through life and love people like Christ did, even when they desert me. Teach me to live like Jesus and to demonstrate His goodness at all times. Help me to never look at the crowd size to determine if I am doing Your will.

Your Son Forever,

Jeff

Forgiveness and Answered Prayer

 Scripture:

”But when you are praying, first forgive anyone you are holding a grudge against, so that your Father in heaven will forgive your sins, too.”“ ‭‭Mark‬ ‭11‬:‭25‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

Jesus was talking about faith and getting prayers answered. Right after saying you can speak to mountains and they have to move, He says, “when you are praying. First forgive anyone you are holding a grudge against, so your Father in heaven will forgive your sins too.” Part of the key to answered prayer is forgiving those who hurt you, not just faith.

Application:

Forgiveness is huge in our walk with God. Jesus said in other places that we cannot be forgiven if we don’t forgive others. We must learn to forgive quickly and easily. We must never hold a grudge against anyone for anything. Jesus taught us to let it go and forgive those who hurt us. This is a hard teaching, but super powerful.

Prayer:

Father, teach me to walk in step with You at all times. Enable me to never hold a grudge or hold unforgiveness in my heart toward anyone. I want to be more like You everyday. Speak to me when I mess up and show me the way forward each day. Let my life bring You honor and praise.

Yours,

Jeff

Come with FAITH, not IF

 Scripture:

”“What do you mean, ‘If I can’?” Jesus asked. “Anything is possible if a person believes.”“ ‭‭Mark‬ ‭9‬:‭23‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

They brought Jesus a difficult case where His disciples were not able to cast a demon from a child who was tormented and could not talk. The father said the words, “If you can,” to Jesus and He replied, “IF I CAN?” He continued by saying, “Anything is possible if a person believes.” Faith believes that God will do what He says He will do. We are meant to be a people of faith, who do the impossible.

Application:

We should never come into God’s presence with an “If You can.” We already know He can do all things. We must come to God in faith and believe that anything is possible for him who believes. Jesus often made statements like this. We must begin to walk in what He died to give us. I want to be a person of faith and to live a life of obedience. I long to see what God can do through someone who truly believes. 

Prayer:

Father, let me never come to You with IF, but in FAITH. Help me to be a true believer. Work in my life in this area. Teach me what it means to believe and see the results of “anything is possible.” Let me not hinder Your work because of my lack of belief. I want my life to please You above all things. 

Yours Forever,

Jeff

Be Careful Who You Listen To

 Scripture:

”She went out and asked her mother, “What should I ask for?” Her mother told her, “Ask for the head of John the Baptist!”“ ‭‭Mark‬ ‭6‬:‭24‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

The daughter of Herod had danced a beautiful danced that made daddy proud. He asked her what she wanted, up to half of his kingdom. She asked her mother what she should ask for and her mother told her to ask for the head of John the Baptist. The girl could have had anything she wanted, but the one she trusted to advise her, gave her terrible advice that killed one of the greatest men of God to ever live.

Application:

We must be careful who we listen to for advice. Herodius asked her mother, who had an improper lust for revenge on John the Baptist. She wanted him dead and this was her opportunity. Sometimes the people we ask advice from have issues that may cause their judgment to be skewed. We must seek the Lord’s wisdom in all things. There is wisdom in the multitude of counselors, but a single opinion may be off because of their past hurts or issues.

Prayer:

Father, I want to walk in Your wisdom and not just do what others, who I look up to, tell me I should do. Help me to hear clearly from You on all things and teach me to follow Your ways always. I don’t want skewed advice from people I look up to. I want to do exactly what You want me to do.

Yours Forever,

Jeff

Led By The Spirit

 Scripture:

”Now whenever the cloud lifted from the Tabernacle, the people of Israel would set out on their journey, following it.“ ‭‭Exodus‬ ‭40‬:‭36‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

When the Tabernacle was completed exactly as Moses heard from the Lord, the glory of the Lord filled the Tabernacle like a cloud and Moses could no longer go inside. Whenever the cloud lifted, the people would set on their journey and follow it. When it would stop, they would set up camp. This is how the people of Israel made it through the wilderness for forty years.

Application:

The cloud of the Old Testament represents the Spirit of the New Testament. We are to be people of the Spirit who are led by the Spirit at all times. I want to live my life in step with the Spirit. The Spirit is like the wind, Jesus said, you don’t know where it comes from or where it is going. Spirit led people are like that. I want to be led by God’s Spirit always and to move with the cloud of His presence. I don’t want to do anything outside of His will.

Prayer:

Lord God Almighty, lead me and guide me throughout my life. I offered my life to You many years ago. Take it and mold it, shape it, use it for Your glory. Let me be led by Your Spirit and not simply do what makes sense to others. Help me to hear Your voice above all others and to do whatever You speak. Open doors in my life and lead me through them. I am Yours!

Forever Yours,

Jeff

God’s Way, Not Mine

 Scripture:

”Bezalel son of Uri, grandson of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, made everything just as the Lord had commanded Moses.“ ‭‭Exodus‬ ‭38‬:‭22‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

Bezalel was an incredible craftsman. He oversaw the construction of everything to be used in the Tabernacle. The beauty of his life is that he was amazing at what he did, but he knew how to take orders and fulfill what God wanted instead of what he wanted. He was a very talented artist, but built according to what God said and not his own variation of what God said. His goal was not to show off his artisanship, but to do what God said to do and how God said to do it.

Application:

We like to do things our way. We like to build what we want rather than asking God what He wants. The Tabernacle was very ornate, but it was ornate with the things God wanted and not with whatever Bezalel wanted. We like to do things FOR God, but God wants us to do things WITH Him in the way He wants it done. When we do things God’s way instead of our own way, we see powerful results. I want to work with God in doing things His way and not my own.

Prayer:

Father, I want to please You with my life. I want to do things Your way and not my own. Teach me to wait on You for Your will and desires instead of charging forward to do what I want to do. Help me to discern what is of You and what is of me. Show me how to please You in every way as I live out my life. I long to do exactly what You want me to do in the way You want me to do it.

Yours Forever,

Jeff 

God’s Self Description

 Scripture:

”The Lord passed in front of Moses, calling out, “Yahweh! The Lord! The God of compassion and mercy! I am slow to anger and filled with unfailing love and faithfulness.“ ‭‭Exodus‬ ‭34‬:‭6‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

In this passage, Moses encounters the Lord God Almighty up close and personal. God passes in front of Moses and calls out, “Yahweh! The Lord! The God of compassion and mercy! I am slow to anger and filled with unfailing love and faithfulness.” God describes Himself as being compassionate and merciful. He says He is slow to anger and full of unfailing love and faithfulness. This is who God is!

Application:

First, I must believe and live like God is who He says He is. I must believe that He is full of love and compassion and mercy for me. I must believe He has unfailing love and faithfulness without measure. Then I must show others through my life. I need to up my level of being compassionate and full of mercy. I need to be like my Father, slow to anger and filled with unfailing love. I need these traits in my life in ever-increasing measure.

Prayer:

Lord God Almighty, I want to be more like You as I grow older. Let my life reflect Your life. Let me walk in the attributes that You have. Help me to represent You well in my generation. Show me how to live as You would live. Let me live a life that You want me to live. 

Forever Yours,

Jeff

Hospitable to the Holy Spirit

 Scripture:

‬‬ “Have the people of Israel build me a holy sanctuary so I can live among them. You must build this Tabernacle and its furnishings exactly according to the pattern I will show you..” ‭‭Exodus‬ ‭25‬:‭8‬-‭9‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

God’s desire from the beginning has always been the same. “So I can live among them.” Throughout the Old and New Testaments we see the heart of God to be with His people so they can be His people and He can be their God. In order to do that in the Old Testament, they had to build a sanctuary to house the presence of God and it had to be perfectly built according to what He showed them. In the New Testament, we are the Temple of God.

Application:

I need to live with the awareness that God resides inside of me, just as He resided in the Temple or the Tabernacle in Old Testament times. He has prescriptions called holiness. He doesn’t inhabit dirty vessels, but wants things done orderly and in His way. He gave us everything we need for holiness and godliness. We must operate in these things by the power of His Spirit. 

Prayer:

Father, I want You to feel at home in my life. Help me to clean out the closets and keep your house free from anything that would displease You. Help me to live a life that honors You completely. Live in and through my life. Let my body be a Temple You feel at home in. Help me to show You hospitality well.

Yours Forever,

Jeff

His Kingdom of Priests

 Scripture:

”Now if you will obey me and keep my covenant, you will be my own special treasure from among all the peoples on earth; for all the earth belongs to me. And you will be my kingdom of priests, my holy nation.’ This is the message you must give to the people of Israel.”“ ‭‭Exodus‬ ‭19‬:‭5‬-‭6‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

God tells His people here that if they obey Him and keep His covenant, they will be a special people to Him and they will be a kingdom of priests, a holy nation. His desire from the beginning was always to be God to His people and for His people to be a kingdom of priests. He makes this possible when we walk in obedience to Him and His covenant.

Application:

We are a peculiar people. We are to be different than every other group of people on the planet. We are meant, as believers, to be a kingdom of priests and to shine God’s love and light to the entire world. We have all been given access as priests into the holy place. We are ALL allowed to enter the holy of holies, not just a few special priests. God made a way for us to walk hand in hand with Him, accomplishing His will in the earth. As we surrender our lives to Him, we can expect Him to work in and through us.

Prayer:

Father, take my life and use it for Your glory. Fill me to overflow with Your Spirit. Let it be evident that I am part of Your priestly line who live in Your presence. Bless my life. Bless my family. Bless my church. Bless my region. Touch the world through my life as I yield to You more and more.

Forever Yours,

Jeff

Let the World See Your Power

 Scripture:

”I know now that the Lord is greater than all other gods, because he rescued his people from the oppression of the proud Egyptians.”“ ‭‭Exodus‬ ‭18‬:‭11‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

This verse is Jethro, the father in law of Moses speaking. He had come to see what the Lord had done for the people of Israel. He had Moses working with him for 40 years and probably was somewhat skeptical of whether Moses was going to be able to do what he was sent to do. After seeing God’s people firsthand in the wilderness, he was amazed and declared “The Lord is greater than all other gods, because he rescued his people from the oppression of the proud Egyptians.”

Application:

When God really moves on behalf of His people, the worldly onlookers begin to see who He is and how wonderful He is. I want to live a life that makes unsaved people declare, “now I know that the Lord is greater than all other gods.” I want to live a life that makes the unsaved believe there is a God in heaven that blesses His people. I want to be an example of God’s blessing so much, that those around me have to know there is a God.

Prayer:

Lord, let my light shine. Let my life bring You glory and honor. Help me to live a life that makes the unbelievers, believe. Live in and through my life and let the world see it and know You are God and there is none like You. Make Your name famous through my life. 

Yours Forever,

Jeff

Give Him Praise

 Scripture:

”The Lord is my strength and my song; he has given me victory. This is my God, and I will praise him— my father’s God, and I will exalt him!“ ‭‭Exodus‬ ‭15‬:‭2‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

The people of Israel had just come across the Red Sea and God had drowned the entire Egyptian army there. He had done incredible things for Israel, demonstrating His power to them as He was bringing them out of Egyptian captivity. When they got to the other side they sang a beautiful song, which this verse is part of. It declares that the Lord is their strength and song and that it was He who gave them the victory. Therefore they would praise Him and exalt Him.

Application:

When God shows Himself strong in our lives, we would do well to sing Him a song of praise. When we have victories, we need to acknowledge Him in every way. He is the one who gives me strength. He is the one who gives me a song. He deserves all the glory and honor in my life. God has been good to me through the years and I will shout His praises to the whole world.

Prayer:

Father God, You are great and glorious. You deserve the glory and honor. You have blessed my life over and over again. You have allowed me to participate in the extension of Your kingdom. You have worked miracles in my life I could have never done. You are my strength. You are my song. You are my everything. All I have is Yours. Be glorified in my life.

Yours,

Jeff

Supernatural Turnaround

 Scripture:

”The Lord caused the Egyptians to look favorably on the Israelites, and they gave the Israelites whatever they asked for. So they stripped the Egyptians of their wealth!“ ‭‭Exodus‬ ‭12‬:‭36‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

This passage speaks of the Exodus out of Egypt by God’s people. They were slaves in Egypt for 430 years, but when they left, they left with the wealth of Egypt. When God decided to bless them, He did it overwhelmingly. They walked in favor and the people of Egypt gave them whatever they asked for, including their gold, money, resources, animals, etc. They went into the land with nothing and came out like a wealthy army.

Application:

Even when things seem terrible and nothing seems to be going right, God can turn things around quickly and bless you beyond belief. In a single day, God made a bunch of slaves wealthy and strong. Sometimes the wait is long, but God always comes through and eventually those who serve Him well, will be blessed. I am trusting God to bless my life in great ways as I serve Him faithfully and do whatever He gives me to do.

Prayer:

Father, help me to trust You more and more each day. Bless my life and let me be a blessing. Teach me to walk in wisdom and to trust You for supernatural financial breakthrough for my family and my church so we can be a blessing to the world. I want to extend Your kingdom and leave a mark through my life more and more as I grow older.

Yours Always and Forever,

Jeff

Pray for Me

 Scripture:

”“All right, go ahead,” Pharaoh replied. “I will let you go into the wilderness to offer sacrifices to the Lord your God. But don’t go too far away. Now hurry and pray for me.”“ ‭‭Exodus‬ ‭8‬:‭28‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

Pharaoh had seen some of the plagues and realized he was in trouble. As this point, he was ready to let them go into the wilderness to worship their God as long as they didn’t go far and he told them, “pray for me.” He knew he was in trouble and that their God was causing it. Even Pharaoh realized who the real king was, and was ready for some reprieve. 

Application:

When God starts blessing His people, even our enemies and those who don’t believe in God will start saying, “pray for me.” There are people right now who feel far from God, but realize He is out there and they are saying “pray for me.” As God’s people, we must hear the cry of those who don’t believe and realize that even the hardest hearts are saying “pray for me.” They might not admit it, but they want our prayers.

Prayer:

Father, help me to pray for people consistently. Teach me to intercede for others. They may not know You yet, and may even oppose You at this time. Rather than judging them, let me hear their cries saying “pray for me.” Let me respond in prayer for those who do not know You. Let this be the year when the hardened prodigals come home.

Yours,

Jeff