Today's Reading: Acts 6
Scripture:
But they were unable to cope with the wisdom and the Spirit with which he was speaking." Acts 6:10
Observation:
When the Spirit moves and God begins to stir a work, things get busy in a hurry. The early church was literally exploding. Needs were coming at the disciples more quickly than they could handle.
In the midst of busy times it is very easy to become caught up in dealing with all that is coming at you and fall down on Spiritually. Stephen managed to stay grounded enough to live out the Word.
Application:
I look at this passage and I am reminded that the fruit of a life well lived produces a wisdom, Spirit and faith that can not be broken. There are three really good reminders here on the basics of how to do it.
First, I have to stay in the Word and not neglect it. There are many things that rise up and fight for my time, but above all I have to stay in God's Word Daily. Each morning I need to wrestle with the scriptures and apply them to my life.
Second, I have to devote myself to prayer and ministry. Looking up to God in prayer seeking His direction and then looking out the world around me to find where He is working are the calls I must pursue. It is so easy to get out of sync with these two.
Third, I must be full of Spirit and Faith. Deception is an easy thing to fall into. The religious counsel as depicted in this passage did not think they were doing wicked things. In fact, they honestly thought they were serving God. Instead of Spirit and Faith; they were full of pride and self-interest. The same can happen with me. I must daily keep myself in check.
Prayer:
When I read a verse like this it is easy to start praying for the fruit I see in it. I have prayed for You to strengthen my faith and fill me with Your spirit many times. This morning I am grateful for You reminding me of the work I need to do on my end. Keep Your Word active to me. I pray that when I seek Your face in the in mornings that you give me wisdom to see how to apply Your word to my life. I ask that you teach me to pray prayers that are not self centered but rather focus on the needs of others. Finally I pray that You protect me from deception. I do not want to be filled with anything other than Your Spirit and Truth.
Friday, January 30, 2009
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Speaking Out and Letting Go
Today's Reading:
Psalm 12 & Acts 5
Scripture:
"So in the present case, I say to you stay away from these men and let them alone, for if this plan or action is of men, it will be overthrown; but if it is of God, you will not be able to overthrow them; or else you may even be found fighting against God." Acts 5:38-39
Observation:
Debates and fights are a common theme in any organization or entity. Difference of opinions, strategy, and desired outcomes incite the worst in people. In the heat of the battle, people become consumed by the emotion of a moment and their disagreements take on a life of their own. If not managed properly, these situations shift gears and it becomes a battle of wills; not a battle for what is best.
As things reached a fever pitch in this passage, one of the prominent leaders of the day had to courage to speak up. He had the wisdom to understand the actions of their past and to trust in the sovereignty of God. He risked everything in his life to say what he felt was right.
Application:
I'm stubborn. That is actually a little bit of an understatement. Pigheaded would be a better word. From this passage I see two reminders.
First, I need to remember that I am not God. I am not perfect. I need to pay attention to what God is doing around me and understand the results of my past decisions. There are many times that I may feel like I am moving in the right direction but I may well be working against God. I must stay in a frame of mind that is willing to admit my mistakes.
Second, I need to avoid falling in with the crowd. There have been many times that I ignored the gentle urging of God to speak up or speak out in certain situations. The quiet voice of God in my life must cut through the noise of the crowd. There will be moments when He calls on me to speak out against what is being said.
Prayer:
My stubbornness is one of my greatest strengths and it is also one of my fatal weaknesses. I know that You speak clearly to me, but I pray that You help me listen. My greatest fear in life is being found in a moment where I am working against You. In the heat of discussions I pray that You teach me to balance the need for speaking out and the wisdom in sitting silent. Above all, I pray that I be counted among the men fight for the plan that is from You.
Psalm 12 & Acts 5
Scripture:
"So in the present case, I say to you stay away from these men and let them alone, for if this plan or action is of men, it will be overthrown; but if it is of God, you will not be able to overthrow them; or else you may even be found fighting against God." Acts 5:38-39
Observation:
Debates and fights are a common theme in any organization or entity. Difference of opinions, strategy, and desired outcomes incite the worst in people. In the heat of the battle, people become consumed by the emotion of a moment and their disagreements take on a life of their own. If not managed properly, these situations shift gears and it becomes a battle of wills; not a battle for what is best.
As things reached a fever pitch in this passage, one of the prominent leaders of the day had to courage to speak up. He had the wisdom to understand the actions of their past and to trust in the sovereignty of God. He risked everything in his life to say what he felt was right.
Application:
I'm stubborn. That is actually a little bit of an understatement. Pigheaded would be a better word. From this passage I see two reminders.
First, I need to remember that I am not God. I am not perfect. I need to pay attention to what God is doing around me and understand the results of my past decisions. There are many times that I may feel like I am moving in the right direction but I may well be working against God. I must stay in a frame of mind that is willing to admit my mistakes.
Second, I need to avoid falling in with the crowd. There have been many times that I ignored the gentle urging of God to speak up or speak out in certain situations. The quiet voice of God in my life must cut through the noise of the crowd. There will be moments when He calls on me to speak out against what is being said.
Prayer:
My stubbornness is one of my greatest strengths and it is also one of my fatal weaknesses. I know that You speak clearly to me, but I pray that You help me listen. My greatest fear in life is being found in a moment where I am working against You. In the heat of discussions I pray that You teach me to balance the need for speaking out and the wisdom in sitting silent. Above all, I pray that I be counted among the men fight for the plan that is from You.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Authenticity
Today's Reading: Psalm 12 & Acts 4
Scripture:
"Now as they observed the confidence of Peter and John and understood that they were uneducated and untrained men, they were amazed, and began to recognize them as having been with Jesus." Acts 4:13
Observation:
Authenticity. That is the word which keeps stirring in my heart as I play this verse over and over in my mind. The members of the early church had a walk with God that was not just petty religion. It did not consist of ritual and rights or rules and regulations. It did not produce stiff and stuffy people. It was not achieved by study and education.
They connected with the Spirit of God in a way that produced something of great power. People were flocking to the early church by the thousands. Here is the amazing thing; each person who made a decision to join the early church risked losing everything they had. Even their very lives were threatened. Still, there was something so remarkably great happening with the early believers that people were compelled to say yes.
Application:
My life has to be authentic. That is the bottom line of this message from God to me this morning. I often settle for way less. God does not want me to experience His word in concept or theory. He wants me to experience His word in action, power, movements and deeds. Things learned in this manner become a fiber in the tapestry of my heart. I cannot be separated from them and when they are viewed by others they reveal an image of God that is irresistible.
Prayer:
I can't live off the menu. I can look at the pictures. I can read the descriptions of the items. I can use my imagination to somewhat enjoy what my eyes are observing. But, I can't eat the menu.
That is what I feel like in my Spiritual life right now. There is a lack of authenticity and it is bothering me. I want to experience You in real ways that move past me simply looking and dreaming. I want to taste and know first hand of Your goodness.
As I read through the life of the early church, Your spirit was upon these people in extraordinary ways. That is my prayer this morning. I pray that You stir in my quiet times with You in a way that people will recognize me as being one who has been with Jesus. I pray that You stir in the routine of my daily life in a way so that every word I speak be spoken from a man who is filled with Your spirit. I pray that the results of my actions create a portfolio of signs and wonders that cause people to celebrate You and Your goodness.
Help me today to experience Your word in action, power, movements and deeds.
Scripture:
"Now as they observed the confidence of Peter and John and understood that they were uneducated and untrained men, they were amazed, and began to recognize them as having been with Jesus." Acts 4:13
Observation:
Authenticity. That is the word which keeps stirring in my heart as I play this verse over and over in my mind. The members of the early church had a walk with God that was not just petty religion. It did not consist of ritual and rights or rules and regulations. It did not produce stiff and stuffy people. It was not achieved by study and education.
They connected with the Spirit of God in a way that produced something of great power. People were flocking to the early church by the thousands. Here is the amazing thing; each person who made a decision to join the early church risked losing everything they had. Even their very lives were threatened. Still, there was something so remarkably great happening with the early believers that people were compelled to say yes.
Application:
My life has to be authentic. That is the bottom line of this message from God to me this morning. I often settle for way less. God does not want me to experience His word in concept or theory. He wants me to experience His word in action, power, movements and deeds. Things learned in this manner become a fiber in the tapestry of my heart. I cannot be separated from them and when they are viewed by others they reveal an image of God that is irresistible.
Prayer:
I can't live off the menu. I can look at the pictures. I can read the descriptions of the items. I can use my imagination to somewhat enjoy what my eyes are observing. But, I can't eat the menu.
That is what I feel like in my Spiritual life right now. There is a lack of authenticity and it is bothering me. I want to experience You in real ways that move past me simply looking and dreaming. I want to taste and know first hand of Your goodness.
As I read through the life of the early church, Your spirit was upon these people in extraordinary ways. That is my prayer this morning. I pray that You stir in my quiet times with You in a way that people will recognize me as being one who has been with Jesus. I pray that You stir in the routine of my daily life in a way so that every word I speak be spoken from a man who is filled with Your spirit. I pray that the results of my actions create a portfolio of signs and wonders that cause people to celebrate You and Your goodness.
Help me today to experience Your word in action, power, movements and deeds.
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Reminders of God's Character
Today's Reading: Exodus 20
Scripture:
"Then God spoke, I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery." Exodus 20:1
Observation:This simple little verse contains some amazing reminders I needed to hear this morning. First, God speaks. In all of the scripture I see that. God does speak. Second, He is a personal God. Though He is above all things and controls all things He still connects with people one-on-one. Third, He is a God who delivers. The scriptures are full of stories revealing the redeeming nature of God. He is a God who pulls His people out of the pit.
Application:
Last night Brandy and I had a discussion about some spiritual things I am struggling with. There are some patterns of weakness I can't get past and some concepts of walking with God that just drive me nuts. In the midst of wrestling with these things I needed a reminder this morning of God character.
God speaks. There was a season in my life when God only existed to me through other people. Everything thing I got of God came through someone else. I rarely heard His voice first hand. I am no longer in that season. God speaks to me frequently and a majority of the instruction I receive from God I get directly from Him. He is alive to me in ways that I never imagined. That said, I still have a tendency to get stuck with certain situations and feel like God is saying nothing to me. I need to remember that God does speak. I need to continually pursue His voice.
God is personal. This is perhaps one of the more challenging aspects of living life with God. He is a personal God. He does not want me worshiping or serving Him as one would worship a statue or theory. When I think about religion, that is what it mostly programs people to do. I must constantly fight against falling into this rut. God is a personal God and he desires for me to know Him in first person. He desires for me to have encounters with Him and to be with Him one-on-one. As great as the teachers of my church are, they can never be enough. I need to daily feed myself on the Word and connect with my God personally.
God delivers. No matter where I am. No matter what I feel. Not matter the odds I face. God has and always will deliver. That is so hard to remember. The desperation of moments often overwhelms me and forces me into places of doubt, fear, panic and frustration. Issues left unsettled or obstacles left unconquered drive me nuts. The weight of my emotions sit on top of me like a coat of iron and hinder my movements. In moments when my spiritual legs feel as if their muscles are about to burst and their bones crack under the weight of my struggles or pain I must remember that God delivers. He seldom does it in my timing or according to my ways; but he always DOES.
Prayer:
I needed this morning. Thank You. You are a God who listens and speaks. Though I there are times I feel the weight of Your silence, I am grateful that Your silence is never permanent. I pray that You open my ears and allow Your voice to heard in the dark places of my heart.
You are a God who is personal. I do not worship a God who is from afar, but one who draws near. You are alive and active. I pray today that I not settle for second hand information. You are a first hand God and my relationship with You must be built upon Your personal involvement in my private life.
You are a God who delivers. As I look back over my life I'm reminded of many things through which You have brought me. Then there are also things in my past that did not turn out that well; experiences that I did not seem to find deliverance. That creates inside of me a conflict. It opens the door for doubt. I pray this morning that You bring healing and understanding to the disappointments of life and help me connect the I AM God of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and Moses; the God who delivers from slavery.
Scripture:
"Then God spoke, I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery." Exodus 20:1
Observation:This simple little verse contains some amazing reminders I needed to hear this morning. First, God speaks. In all of the scripture I see that. God does speak. Second, He is a personal God. Though He is above all things and controls all things He still connects with people one-on-one. Third, He is a God who delivers. The scriptures are full of stories revealing the redeeming nature of God. He is a God who pulls His people out of the pit.
Application:
Last night Brandy and I had a discussion about some spiritual things I am struggling with. There are some patterns of weakness I can't get past and some concepts of walking with God that just drive me nuts. In the midst of wrestling with these things I needed a reminder this morning of God character.
God speaks. There was a season in my life when God only existed to me through other people. Everything thing I got of God came through someone else. I rarely heard His voice first hand. I am no longer in that season. God speaks to me frequently and a majority of the instruction I receive from God I get directly from Him. He is alive to me in ways that I never imagined. That said, I still have a tendency to get stuck with certain situations and feel like God is saying nothing to me. I need to remember that God does speak. I need to continually pursue His voice.
God is personal. This is perhaps one of the more challenging aspects of living life with God. He is a personal God. He does not want me worshiping or serving Him as one would worship a statue or theory. When I think about religion, that is what it mostly programs people to do. I must constantly fight against falling into this rut. God is a personal God and he desires for me to know Him in first person. He desires for me to have encounters with Him and to be with Him one-on-one. As great as the teachers of my church are, they can never be enough. I need to daily feed myself on the Word and connect with my God personally.
God delivers. No matter where I am. No matter what I feel. Not matter the odds I face. God has and always will deliver. That is so hard to remember. The desperation of moments often overwhelms me and forces me into places of doubt, fear, panic and frustration. Issues left unsettled or obstacles left unconquered drive me nuts. The weight of my emotions sit on top of me like a coat of iron and hinder my movements. In moments when my spiritual legs feel as if their muscles are about to burst and their bones crack under the weight of my struggles or pain I must remember that God delivers. He seldom does it in my timing or according to my ways; but he always DOES.
Prayer:
I needed this morning. Thank You. You are a God who listens and speaks. Though I there are times I feel the weight of Your silence, I am grateful that Your silence is never permanent. I pray that You open my ears and allow Your voice to heard in the dark places of my heart.
You are a God who is personal. I do not worship a God who is from afar, but one who draws near. You are alive and active. I pray today that I not settle for second hand information. You are a first hand God and my relationship with You must be built upon Your personal involvement in my private life.
You are a God who delivers. As I look back over my life I'm reminded of many things through which You have brought me. Then there are also things in my past that did not turn out that well; experiences that I did not seem to find deliverance. That creates inside of me a conflict. It opens the door for doubt. I pray this morning that You bring healing and understanding to the disappointments of life and help me connect the I AM God of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and Moses; the God who delivers from slavery.
Monday, January 26, 2009
The Coward Within
Today's Reading: Exodus 14
Scripture:
"As Pharaoh drew near, the sons of Israel looked, and behold, the Egyptians were marching after them, and they became very frightened." Exodus 14:10
Observation:
They had to think that they had won. Given all they had come through and all they had observed, they would have been feeling good.
Then, they heard a roar coming from behind them. Their eyes would have scanned the horizon to see 600 chariots chasing after them. In a split second elation was over taken by fearful dread. In a mere moment, everything they thought was put behind them all came running back.
Application:
It is easy to sit in judgment of the Israelites. What were they thinking? After all that God had done for them they still chose to fear the Egyptians; how pathetic.
No sooner than I have that thought I feel the weight of conviction coming over me as I hear the voice of God saying to me, "You are no better." God continues in his conversation by saying, "Actually, you freak-out at much less than 600 chariots."
That is true. There is no way to deny it. Regardless of what God has done in my life there are moments when things I thought I had overcome come roaring back at me. I dig myself out of a financial mess only to have unexpected expenses pop up and knock me down. I work through issues in my marriage only to see the same of junk pop up again. I overcome issues at work only to see the problems come back in worse shape. I resist the urge to sin only to see an army of temptation come roaring back.
Such is life. Struggles return to me just like the villain in a bad horror movie always returns to fight one last battle. In those moments, I behave just like the Israelites did. I cry out to God in frustration and complain. I look at the problem and become overwhelmed. In a moment of frustration, anger and fear; I take all that God has been to me and literally through it out the door.
Prayer:
There is a coward inside of me who just refuses to die. He pops up in the worst of times and reminds me of just how bad things are going to be. His nagging voice deafens me from hearing Your voice and blinds me from remembering my past.
Satan fills this coward hiding in my flesh will lies and deceptions. These tactics of his are tried and true. He has been perfecting his methods since the fall in the garden and You know better than I do just how good he is at flinging his darts of doubt, fear, and panic.
I sit still before You this morning and ask that You fight on my behalf. Father I am powerless against my enemies. You are my only hope. I pray this morning that Your presence move between me and the unholy things that pursue me. Open my eyes to see my taunting tormentors through the power of Your presence. Silence the coward inside of me by speaking to me Your word of promise for my life.
Scripture:
"As Pharaoh drew near, the sons of Israel looked, and behold, the Egyptians were marching after them, and they became very frightened." Exodus 14:10
Observation:
They had to think that they had won. Given all they had come through and all they had observed, they would have been feeling good.
Then, they heard a roar coming from behind them. Their eyes would have scanned the horizon to see 600 chariots chasing after them. In a split second elation was over taken by fearful dread. In a mere moment, everything they thought was put behind them all came running back.
Application:
It is easy to sit in judgment of the Israelites. What were they thinking? After all that God had done for them they still chose to fear the Egyptians; how pathetic.
No sooner than I have that thought I feel the weight of conviction coming over me as I hear the voice of God saying to me, "You are no better." God continues in his conversation by saying, "Actually, you freak-out at much less than 600 chariots."
That is true. There is no way to deny it. Regardless of what God has done in my life there are moments when things I thought I had overcome come roaring back at me. I dig myself out of a financial mess only to have unexpected expenses pop up and knock me down. I work through issues in my marriage only to see the same of junk pop up again. I overcome issues at work only to see the problems come back in worse shape. I resist the urge to sin only to see an army of temptation come roaring back.
Such is life. Struggles return to me just like the villain in a bad horror movie always returns to fight one last battle. In those moments, I behave just like the Israelites did. I cry out to God in frustration and complain. I look at the problem and become overwhelmed. In a moment of frustration, anger and fear; I take all that God has been to me and literally through it out the door.
Prayer:
There is a coward inside of me who just refuses to die. He pops up in the worst of times and reminds me of just how bad things are going to be. His nagging voice deafens me from hearing Your voice and blinds me from remembering my past.
Satan fills this coward hiding in my flesh will lies and deceptions. These tactics of his are tried and true. He has been perfecting his methods since the fall in the garden and You know better than I do just how good he is at flinging his darts of doubt, fear, and panic.
I sit still before You this morning and ask that You fight on my behalf. Father I am powerless against my enemies. You are my only hope. I pray this morning that Your presence move between me and the unholy things that pursue me. Open my eyes to see my taunting tormentors through the power of Your presence. Silence the coward inside of me by speaking to me Your word of promise for my life.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
All the Wrong Places
Today's Reading: Exodus 11 & Luke 24
Scripture:
"But when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus." Luke 24:4
Observation:
These women were out trying to do the best thing that they knew to do. They prepared themselves and set out on a work they felt would be honoring to Christ. They did not find what they were looking for.
I would imagine in the moments immediately following their discovery of the empty tomb, they were left with a really bad feeling. What else could happen? What were they supposed to do next? Why was God letting all this occur? They were looking for Jesus, but in all the wrong places.
Stories such as this are normally hard to apply to my life but this morning I see quite clearly the Holy Spirit instructing me on three ways I look for Jesus in wrong places.
Application:
The first way I can miss out on finding Jesus is by looking for Him in dead places. Dead places in my life normally result from two things, my expectations or my attitude. Expectations and attitude are everything. As I look at the life of Christ these were the two most common things that determined whether a person or place experienced life from Him. It is the same in my life. God's work is limited by the expectations I have and the attitude I take on.
The second way I can miss out on Jesus is by looking for Jesus in my own logic. There are a couple of places where I normally over look Jesus because of my logic. First, I miss Him in hard times and bad situations. It is hard to understand how Jesus can be found in the middle of tragedy, hardships and seasons of frustration. During these times I often get so consumed by my emotions that I forget to back away and look for my Savior. Second, I miss Him by looking for something new. There is nothing wrong with searching for deeper understanding, but often God has already given me the answer. I either have refused it or missed it. Either way I miss Him because I fail to slow down and seek His revelation.
The third way I can miss out on Jesus is by looking for Him places I am not supposed to be. There are two common places I am not supposed to be. The first are places where I am not supposed to be YET. There is always a delay between God calling and God sending. That season is designed to grow me, but I normally get impatient and jump out ahead of Him. I know what I am supposed to be doing, but I just can't wait. It is a lot like eating desert before dinner or trying to get paid before the job is done. The second places are what I call grace places. These are situations I create by doing something I know that God said no to, but I do it anyway because I am relying on His Grace to get me out. This is called rebellion. It is almost comical to when I think about how many times I have played the victim all the while knowing God told me not to do it.
Prayer:
Father I seek You daily. This morning I have been reminded that that is not enough. I must seek You in spirit, in truth and in action. Lining the three of these things up is not something I am capable of on my own. If left to my own devices, I waste my time looking for You in all the wrong places.
Finding myself in places where You are not is a miserable existence. Guard my attitudes and beliefs and prevent them from taking the life out of experiences. Slow me down as things happen to me that are out of alignment with my logic and help me to see You in the midst of painful moments. Restrain me from taking action until Your timing has fully come.
Scripture:
"But when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus." Luke 24:4
Observation:
These women were out trying to do the best thing that they knew to do. They prepared themselves and set out on a work they felt would be honoring to Christ. They did not find what they were looking for.
I would imagine in the moments immediately following their discovery of the empty tomb, they were left with a really bad feeling. What else could happen? What were they supposed to do next? Why was God letting all this occur? They were looking for Jesus, but in all the wrong places.
Stories such as this are normally hard to apply to my life but this morning I see quite clearly the Holy Spirit instructing me on three ways I look for Jesus in wrong places.
Application:
The first way I can miss out on finding Jesus is by looking for Him in dead places. Dead places in my life normally result from two things, my expectations or my attitude. Expectations and attitude are everything. As I look at the life of Christ these were the two most common things that determined whether a person or place experienced life from Him. It is the same in my life. God's work is limited by the expectations I have and the attitude I take on.
The second way I can miss out on Jesus is by looking for Jesus in my own logic. There are a couple of places where I normally over look Jesus because of my logic. First, I miss Him in hard times and bad situations. It is hard to understand how Jesus can be found in the middle of tragedy, hardships and seasons of frustration. During these times I often get so consumed by my emotions that I forget to back away and look for my Savior. Second, I miss Him by looking for something new. There is nothing wrong with searching for deeper understanding, but often God has already given me the answer. I either have refused it or missed it. Either way I miss Him because I fail to slow down and seek His revelation.
The third way I can miss out on Jesus is by looking for Him places I am not supposed to be. There are two common places I am not supposed to be. The first are places where I am not supposed to be YET. There is always a delay between God calling and God sending. That season is designed to grow me, but I normally get impatient and jump out ahead of Him. I know what I am supposed to be doing, but I just can't wait. It is a lot like eating desert before dinner or trying to get paid before the job is done. The second places are what I call grace places. These are situations I create by doing something I know that God said no to, but I do it anyway because I am relying on His Grace to get me out. This is called rebellion. It is almost comical to when I think about how many times I have played the victim all the while knowing God told me not to do it.
Prayer:
Father I seek You daily. This morning I have been reminded that that is not enough. I must seek You in spirit, in truth and in action. Lining the three of these things up is not something I am capable of on my own. If left to my own devices, I waste my time looking for You in all the wrong places.
Finding myself in places where You are not is a miserable existence. Guard my attitudes and beliefs and prevent them from taking the life out of experiences. Slow me down as things happen to me that are out of alignment with my logic and help me to see You in the midst of painful moments. Restrain me from taking action until Your timing has fully come.
Friday, January 23, 2009
Quiet Time
Today's Reading: Exodus 6: 1-12; Ex 7:1-12; Ex 8:16-19 & Luke 23:32-34
Scripture:
"But Jesus was saying, 'Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.'" Luke 23:34
Observation:
Throughout today's reading I see three men doing some pretty incredible things. In Moses and Aaron I see two old, washed out men going before a nation of slaves and the Pharaoh of a great kingdom to command them towards something of which neither wanted. At a season of life when they should have been slowing down, Moses and Aaron were just getting on their way.
In Jesus, I see a man suffering great things at the hand of wicked people and yet He keeps His wits about Him. The pain and suffering of Christ was horrible. That is what is so amazing about His composure. In spite of everything, He stayed focused on His mission.
It is easy to look at these examples and miss out on a key point; in both cases they spent time alone with God on the front end and worked out their issues regarding what was coming next.
Application:
I have heard many sermons preached on just how insecure Moses was. Preachers and churches have made much to do about all the doubts Moses had and how he expressed them to God. In most cases these moments are told by men to illustrate an example of what not to do. I would disagree. I think Moses lays the ground work for exactly what I should do. Moses dropped all sense of false piety and got honest with God. He did not withhold his thoughts. His conversation with God went straight through the heart of his concerns.
I have often looked at the Grace reflected in Christ throughout his time of crucifixion. I find it amazing that He endured all that He endured and the manner in which He conducted Himself is incredible. This morning I noted the words He spoke from the cross, but the truly amazing event was noted in an earlier passage. In Luke 23 I see Jesus praying & spending time alone with God. He did not hide His fears. He spoke honestly with His Father and allowed the full weight of all His emotions to be conveyed in His prayer. So much so that not only did he sweat in anguish; His sweat turned to blood.
Prayer:
I am thinking this morning that my quiet time is a little weak. I approach You in prayer and confess my reliance on You but my prayers are counted cheap in comparison to what I see from these two stories.
I realize this morning how little time I actually spend seeking out Your mission for my life. My prayers are so wrapped around what I want from life that I rob my time with You of its full joy.
I need Your help. There is no way I can make this change. There is nothing I can do about the selfish nature of my prayers. My prayer life is a reflection of my daily life. If I am living my daily life to serve my own purpose then my prayer life will be the same. I ask today that You make clear to me Your mission. Speak to me with clarity. Help me to know beyond any doubt the call You have for me. I want to live each day on mission for You, pursuing Your purposes.
I want to know You as Moses and Jesus knew You. I want to converse with You just as Moses and Jesus conversed with You. The problem is, I do not want to suffer for You as Jesus and Moses suffered for You. I realize that I can't have one without the other. I realize just how strongly I hold on to the comfort of my life. I submit to You this morning and pray that You heal the selfish nature of my heart.
Scripture:
"But Jesus was saying, 'Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.'" Luke 23:34
Observation:
Throughout today's reading I see three men doing some pretty incredible things. In Moses and Aaron I see two old, washed out men going before a nation of slaves and the Pharaoh of a great kingdom to command them towards something of which neither wanted. At a season of life when they should have been slowing down, Moses and Aaron were just getting on their way.
In Jesus, I see a man suffering great things at the hand of wicked people and yet He keeps His wits about Him. The pain and suffering of Christ was horrible. That is what is so amazing about His composure. In spite of everything, He stayed focused on His mission.
It is easy to look at these examples and miss out on a key point; in both cases they spent time alone with God on the front end and worked out their issues regarding what was coming next.
Application:
I have heard many sermons preached on just how insecure Moses was. Preachers and churches have made much to do about all the doubts Moses had and how he expressed them to God. In most cases these moments are told by men to illustrate an example of what not to do. I would disagree. I think Moses lays the ground work for exactly what I should do. Moses dropped all sense of false piety and got honest with God. He did not withhold his thoughts. His conversation with God went straight through the heart of his concerns.
I have often looked at the Grace reflected in Christ throughout his time of crucifixion. I find it amazing that He endured all that He endured and the manner in which He conducted Himself is incredible. This morning I noted the words He spoke from the cross, but the truly amazing event was noted in an earlier passage. In Luke 23 I see Jesus praying & spending time alone with God. He did not hide His fears. He spoke honestly with His Father and allowed the full weight of all His emotions to be conveyed in His prayer. So much so that not only did he sweat in anguish; His sweat turned to blood.
Prayer:
I am thinking this morning that my quiet time is a little weak. I approach You in prayer and confess my reliance on You but my prayers are counted cheap in comparison to what I see from these two stories.
I realize this morning how little time I actually spend seeking out Your mission for my life. My prayers are so wrapped around what I want from life that I rob my time with You of its full joy.
I need Your help. There is no way I can make this change. There is nothing I can do about the selfish nature of my prayers. My prayer life is a reflection of my daily life. If I am living my daily life to serve my own purpose then my prayer life will be the same. I ask today that You make clear to me Your mission. Speak to me with clarity. Help me to know beyond any doubt the call You have for me. I want to live each day on mission for You, pursuing Your purposes.
I want to know You as Moses and Jesus knew You. I want to converse with You just as Moses and Jesus conversed with You. The problem is, I do not want to suffer for You as Jesus and Moses suffered for You. I realize that I can't have one without the other. I realize just how strongly I hold on to the comfort of my life. I submit to You this morning and pray that You heal the selfish nature of my heart.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Endurance
Today's Reading: Exodus 2:1-10 & Luke 21.
Scripture:
"By your endurance you will gain your lives." Luke 21:19
Observation:
In this morning's reading, I see two great examples of endurance. The first is given by the family of Moses. They refused to give in to the fear instilled by the Pharaoh. Moses' parents still wed. They still bore a child. Once the child was born, they refused to just let him be killed. Once he was placed a float in a basket and hidden in the river his sister stood watch. And finally, when the Pharaoh's daughter discovered the child, Moses' sister leaped at the opportunity to make something happen. Their endurance allowed them to raise their son and brother.
The second is given in the story of the widow as told in Luke. As the widow arose from her house that morning, she would have seen the empty pantry. She would have felt the pangs of hunger from within her frail body. She would have seen reminders of what her life once was. As she approached the temple, she would have been reminded of her lowly state. She would have observed the abundant gifts of the religious elect. As she moved her hand from her purse to the treasury, she would have fully felt the weight of her inadequacy. Yet she chose to give all that she had to offer. Her endurance captured the heart of a Savior and her gift is the only gift offered to that treasury anyone ever remembered.
Application:
This morning is just a simple reminder that things of worth never come easy. There are times that I become confused and feel that if God is behind something it should be easy. But as I review the scripture this morning I am see evidence that this line of thinking has very little basis. Things of God require endurance; high levels of endurance.
Prayer:
Father God, as I think on the life of Moses I notice something today I have never noticed before. You chose Moses before he was even born. He had done NOTHING of any worth to you. His life had not even begun. I still carry with me the added burden of feeling like I must earn something from You. That is why I over react to hardships. I take it as rejection or judgment against my work. This morning, I realize I am guilty of complaining and griping. I ask that You forgive me of that. My life's plan is the one chosen for me from birth. All I am asked to do is be obedient to the call.
As I look at the story of the widow this morning, I relate to her as I never have before. I look at my gifts and abilities and hold them in my hand as the widow did her two copper coins. Everything in my life feels inadequate when compared to the gifts of others. My pride causes me to hold back. My pride causes me to be jealous of the gifts of others and feel inadequate about my own. My pride is sin and I confess it to You this morning.
My heart has been burdened down my these things and I pray that they be removed. My life is submitted to You and is Yours to do with as You see fit. That is a scary place to be. Speak to me this day and guide me as I go. When things get tough help me continue on and when I feel inadequately prepared for what’s before me; remind me to give what I have to offer. In all these things I pray that I come to rest in Your glory and reflect that radiance to those You chose to be a part of my life.
Scripture:
"By your endurance you will gain your lives." Luke 21:19
Observation:
In this morning's reading, I see two great examples of endurance. The first is given by the family of Moses. They refused to give in to the fear instilled by the Pharaoh. Moses' parents still wed. They still bore a child. Once the child was born, they refused to just let him be killed. Once he was placed a float in a basket and hidden in the river his sister stood watch. And finally, when the Pharaoh's daughter discovered the child, Moses' sister leaped at the opportunity to make something happen. Their endurance allowed them to raise their son and brother.
The second is given in the story of the widow as told in Luke. As the widow arose from her house that morning, she would have seen the empty pantry. She would have felt the pangs of hunger from within her frail body. She would have seen reminders of what her life once was. As she approached the temple, she would have been reminded of her lowly state. She would have observed the abundant gifts of the religious elect. As she moved her hand from her purse to the treasury, she would have fully felt the weight of her inadequacy. Yet she chose to give all that she had to offer. Her endurance captured the heart of a Savior and her gift is the only gift offered to that treasury anyone ever remembered.
Application:
This morning is just a simple reminder that things of worth never come easy. There are times that I become confused and feel that if God is behind something it should be easy. But as I review the scripture this morning I am see evidence that this line of thinking has very little basis. Things of God require endurance; high levels of endurance.
Prayer:
Father God, as I think on the life of Moses I notice something today I have never noticed before. You chose Moses before he was even born. He had done NOTHING of any worth to you. His life had not even begun. I still carry with me the added burden of feeling like I must earn something from You. That is why I over react to hardships. I take it as rejection or judgment against my work. This morning, I realize I am guilty of complaining and griping. I ask that You forgive me of that. My life's plan is the one chosen for me from birth. All I am asked to do is be obedient to the call.
As I look at the story of the widow this morning, I relate to her as I never have before. I look at my gifts and abilities and hold them in my hand as the widow did her two copper coins. Everything in my life feels inadequate when compared to the gifts of others. My pride causes me to hold back. My pride causes me to be jealous of the gifts of others and feel inadequate about my own. My pride is sin and I confess it to You this morning.
My heart has been burdened down my these things and I pray that they be removed. My life is submitted to You and is Yours to do with as You see fit. That is a scary place to be. Speak to me this day and guide me as I go. When things get tough help me continue on and when I feel inadequately prepared for what’s before me; remind me to give what I have to offer. In all these things I pray that I come to rest in Your glory and reflect that radiance to those You chose to be a part of my life.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Lessons in Forgivness
Today's Reading: Genesis 50, Psalm 8, & Luke 20: 9-19.
Scripture:
"Joseph said to his brothers, 'I am about to die, but God will surely take care of you.'" Genesis 50:24
Observation:
Joseph's life was a model of forgiveness. The story of his life offers many lessons on giving and receiving forgiveness. I see three Genesis 50.
Application:
The first lesson I see in this text is Joseph refused to give man authority over his life. When I chose to be angry at another person over what they did to me, I am giving them authority in my life. I am saying to them that they have the ability to rise above God's will for my life and inflict unintended harm on me. If I am truly a man walking after God and my life is surrendered to Him, who is man that he can do anything to me outside of God's will? Several times I see the words of Joseph confessing that all in His life was directed by God. That is the truth Joseph walked in and the same truth I must learn to accept. Regardless of man's intentions and actions, God is the only person who has authority in my life.
The second lesson I see in this text is his brothers unwillingness to accept forgiveness. As soon as Israel died, the brothers began devising a scheme to protect themselves. They never got over what they did and lived in fear of consequences. I do the same thing. I am a fool. My past has proven that I am fully capable of doing some hateful and harmful things to other people. Though those actions have been forgiven, I still carry the burden of many of them. I must learn to let go of my mistakes , stop looking over my shoulder and accept the forgiveness of both man and God.
The final lesson I see in this text is that bitterness would have resulted in Joseph dying alone Egypt. No one could have blamed Joseph for holding a grudge against his brothers. A little vengeance would have been easily justified. Be that as it may, it would have cost Joseph and his family everything. This lesson is tough for me. There is something therapeutic about seeing someone who has wronged me get what's coming to them. There is something inside of me that wants to make sure they get punished. Bitterness comes into my heart and it makes letting things go difficult. I must learn come to understand that bitterness robs me as much as it robs others. God's call on my life is to let things go and leave the process of restitution to Him.
Prayer:
The core of the lessons You have revealed to me this morning all point to the fact that I need to better understand Your authority over man. You alone have the ability to affect my life. You have forgiven me much and command that I do the same. I am not God and anytime I chose to feel wronged, hold onto hurt, or desire vengeance in my heart I chose to take some of Your authority for myself.
I ask that You forgive my pride. Who am I that You should even be mindful of me? Yet, You have given me so much. Your name is truly majestic above all things. I pray that whatever passes through my life today only strengthen my understanding of Your greatness. I chose this day to believe that everything in my life enters through the filter of Your hand. Help me to discern Your desire in each instance.
Scripture:
"Joseph said to his brothers, 'I am about to die, but God will surely take care of you.'" Genesis 50:24
Observation:
Joseph's life was a model of forgiveness. The story of his life offers many lessons on giving and receiving forgiveness. I see three Genesis 50.
Application:
The first lesson I see in this text is Joseph refused to give man authority over his life. When I chose to be angry at another person over what they did to me, I am giving them authority in my life. I am saying to them that they have the ability to rise above God's will for my life and inflict unintended harm on me. If I am truly a man walking after God and my life is surrendered to Him, who is man that he can do anything to me outside of God's will? Several times I see the words of Joseph confessing that all in His life was directed by God. That is the truth Joseph walked in and the same truth I must learn to accept. Regardless of man's intentions and actions, God is the only person who has authority in my life.
The second lesson I see in this text is his brothers unwillingness to accept forgiveness. As soon as Israel died, the brothers began devising a scheme to protect themselves. They never got over what they did and lived in fear of consequences. I do the same thing. I am a fool. My past has proven that I am fully capable of doing some hateful and harmful things to other people. Though those actions have been forgiven, I still carry the burden of many of them. I must learn to let go of my mistakes , stop looking over my shoulder and accept the forgiveness of both man and God.
The final lesson I see in this text is that bitterness would have resulted in Joseph dying alone Egypt. No one could have blamed Joseph for holding a grudge against his brothers. A little vengeance would have been easily justified. Be that as it may, it would have cost Joseph and his family everything. This lesson is tough for me. There is something therapeutic about seeing someone who has wronged me get what's coming to them. There is something inside of me that wants to make sure they get punished. Bitterness comes into my heart and it makes letting things go difficult. I must learn come to understand that bitterness robs me as much as it robs others. God's call on my life is to let things go and leave the process of restitution to Him.
Prayer:
The core of the lessons You have revealed to me this morning all point to the fact that I need to better understand Your authority over man. You alone have the ability to affect my life. You have forgiven me much and command that I do the same. I am not God and anytime I chose to feel wronged, hold onto hurt, or desire vengeance in my heart I chose to take some of Your authority for myself.
I ask that You forgive my pride. Who am I that You should even be mindful of me? Yet, You have given me so much. Your name is truly majestic above all things. I pray that whatever passes through my life today only strengthen my understanding of Your greatness. I chose this day to believe that everything in my life enters through the filter of Your hand. Help me to discern Your desire in each instance.
Monday, January 19, 2009
Words and Action
Today's Reading: Luke 19
Scripture:
"He said to him, 'By your own words I will judge you, you worthless slave.'" Luke 19:19
Observation:
Gifts from God do not come without expectations. God expects us to make something of what He gives to us. Though the slave's actions were not that great, it was not what he did that was judged. It was what he said. Words reflect the heart. It was his heart God judged.
Application:
What are my words? The clearest picture I have as to the condition of my soul is my mouth. I can fake my actions, but ultimately what is on the inside will be revealed in the words I speak. Are my words complaining? Angry? Lazy? Full of excuses? Self Serving?
What are my actions? God expects me to be at work. While the words of my mouth reveal the condition of my heart, my actions paint the clearest picture of what I believe. Are my actions worthy of my calling? Do they touch the lost? The hurting? The abandoned? Do they serve God or do they pursue my own objectives?
Words and actions, these two things go together and create an inseparable bond in the eyes in Jesus. You can't have one without the other.
Prayer:
Father, there are moments when my time with You results in a clear understanding of what you are trying to say to me. I hear Your voice and in a matter of moments know quite clearly what it is You are asking of me.
Then there are moments when my time with You results in an understanding that is not so clear. That is how I feel this morning. I know in general terms what You are saying to me, but the specifics are a little fuzzy.
Based on Your word this morning, I know that You are speaking to me about the words of my mouth and the actions of my life. What I don't understand is the specific response You are asking of me. I pray today for Your wisdom as I sort this out. Speak to me today with clarity and help me to investigate every word I speak and evaluate each action that I take. My desire today is that both my words and my actions create something that is of worth to You today.
Scripture:
"He said to him, 'By your own words I will judge you, you worthless slave.'" Luke 19:19
Observation:
Gifts from God do not come without expectations. God expects us to make something of what He gives to us. Though the slave's actions were not that great, it was not what he did that was judged. It was what he said. Words reflect the heart. It was his heart God judged.
Application:
What are my words? The clearest picture I have as to the condition of my soul is my mouth. I can fake my actions, but ultimately what is on the inside will be revealed in the words I speak. Are my words complaining? Angry? Lazy? Full of excuses? Self Serving?
What are my actions? God expects me to be at work. While the words of my mouth reveal the condition of my heart, my actions paint the clearest picture of what I believe. Are my actions worthy of my calling? Do they touch the lost? The hurting? The abandoned? Do they serve God or do they pursue my own objectives?
Words and actions, these two things go together and create an inseparable bond in the eyes in Jesus. You can't have one without the other.
Prayer:
Father, there are moments when my time with You results in a clear understanding of what you are trying to say to me. I hear Your voice and in a matter of moments know quite clearly what it is You are asking of me.
Then there are moments when my time with You results in an understanding that is not so clear. That is how I feel this morning. I know in general terms what You are saying to me, but the specifics are a little fuzzy.
Based on Your word this morning, I know that You are speaking to me about the words of my mouth and the actions of my life. What I don't understand is the specific response You are asking of me. I pray today for Your wisdom as I sort this out. Speak to me today with clarity and help me to investigate every word I speak and evaluate each action that I take. My desire today is that both my words and my actions create something that is of worth to You today.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
The Points of My Cross
Today's Reading: Luke 14
Scripture:
"Whoever does not carry his own cross and come after Me cannot be my disciple." Luke 14:27
Observation:
The gift of salvation is a free gift of grace from God to man through Jesus Christ. There is nothing that can be done to earn it. But once grace is received, it is no longer free. It can never be lost, but it will cost something. It is like someone giving you a house. The house was free, but to get the most out of if requires work. If not, the house and property will become rundown and useless.
Application:
God has to be first in my life. He will not share second. There are several times Christ uses the imagery of me needing to carry my own cross. A cross has four points. This morning, I am reminded of three of mine.
The first one is my family. Luke 14:26 is a passage of scripture that I do not like to read. What Jesus is saying is not that I must literally hate my family, but rather He is saying that my love for God should be so much higher than my love for my family that it should seem like hate in comparison. God has to be my first love; even above my wife and kids. An honest assessment of where I spend my emotional energy, my time, my concern, and my resources clearly indicates that I have much work to do on this part of my cross.
The second one is my life. Not my physical life, but my daily existence. That to me is what I hear God saying to me in the parable of the wedding feast as told by Christ in Luke 14:16-24. The Guest who were invited to attend the feast all declined because of the activities of their daily life. Work, possessions, and relationships all interfered with them answering their invitation. This part of my cross means that I am willing to drop anything and everything at a moments notice to pursue an invitation from God.
The third one is my comfort. As I review Luke 14 I see scattered throughout it illustrations that call for me to leave my comforts behind. Some of the things I see Jesus speak to were rules (not healing on the Sabbath), social status (inviting the poor to dinner), and personal achievement (the seat of honor). All these things create consistency and comfort in my life. Jesus' call to me this morning is to throw all these things out of the window and be willing to pursue after God.
Prayer:
Father, I can't do this. The ultimate test of these things is to pretend I lose them then think about how I would feel if that happened and all I was left with was my relationship with You.
As I do that with these three things this morning I realize just how much room there is to for me to grow and I am totally humbled by it. There is simply no way that I can do this on my own. I desperately need Your help. Plastic religion can never replace those three things in my life. I need the "I am" God of Moses to invade my life in a real and tangible way.
Scripture:
"Whoever does not carry his own cross and come after Me cannot be my disciple." Luke 14:27
Observation:
The gift of salvation is a free gift of grace from God to man through Jesus Christ. There is nothing that can be done to earn it. But once grace is received, it is no longer free. It can never be lost, but it will cost something. It is like someone giving you a house. The house was free, but to get the most out of if requires work. If not, the house and property will become rundown and useless.
Application:
God has to be first in my life. He will not share second. There are several times Christ uses the imagery of me needing to carry my own cross. A cross has four points. This morning, I am reminded of three of mine.
The first one is my family. Luke 14:26 is a passage of scripture that I do not like to read. What Jesus is saying is not that I must literally hate my family, but rather He is saying that my love for God should be so much higher than my love for my family that it should seem like hate in comparison. God has to be my first love; even above my wife and kids. An honest assessment of where I spend my emotional energy, my time, my concern, and my resources clearly indicates that I have much work to do on this part of my cross.
The second one is my life. Not my physical life, but my daily existence. That to me is what I hear God saying to me in the parable of the wedding feast as told by Christ in Luke 14:16-24. The Guest who were invited to attend the feast all declined because of the activities of their daily life. Work, possessions, and relationships all interfered with them answering their invitation. This part of my cross means that I am willing to drop anything and everything at a moments notice to pursue an invitation from God.
The third one is my comfort. As I review Luke 14 I see scattered throughout it illustrations that call for me to leave my comforts behind. Some of the things I see Jesus speak to were rules (not healing on the Sabbath), social status (inviting the poor to dinner), and personal achievement (the seat of honor). All these things create consistency and comfort in my life. Jesus' call to me this morning is to throw all these things out of the window and be willing to pursue after God.
Prayer:
Father, I can't do this. The ultimate test of these things is to pretend I lose them then think about how I would feel if that happened and all I was left with was my relationship with You.
As I do that with these three things this morning I realize just how much room there is to for me to grow and I am totally humbled by it. There is simply no way that I can do this on my own. I desperately need Your help. Plastic religion can never replace those three things in my life. I need the "I am" God of Moses to invade my life in a real and tangible way.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Jacob's Fear
Today's Reading: Genesis 33 & Luke 13:10-30.
Scripture:
"Then Jacob lifted his eyes and looked and behold, Esau was coming, and four hundred men with him." Genesis 33:1
Observation:
If Jacob could have had it his way, I am sure that he would have avoided his brother Esau all together. The promise and commands of God, however, carried Jacob straight into the face of the very thing that he feared most. He feared greatly what Esau would do when they saw each other. How he handled himself during this time would prove crucial.
Application:
God's commands seldom make sense to me. There are many times that I do not really pray according to his will. I say that I do, but reality is I want things to happen in a certain way. This is especially true when it comes to things that cause me fear or concern. I pray them away. That is the only outcome that I desire. But the plans of God often carry me straight into the teeth of the very storm I wish to escape. There are a few things that I feel I can learn from Jacob in this passage.
First, Jacob had a promise from God on which to stand. I think many times it is hard for me to find confidence to stand firm simply because I have skirted the process of seeking God. Instead of wrestling with Him and finding His plan for my life, I move forward with things hoping that they are right. Jacob new where God was calling him to go and was walking in obedience. I must learn to seek God in that way on the frontend of a situation and then stick with Him as things heat up.
Second, Jacob trusted in God but he still made prudent choices. Jacob sent Esau gifts and when he saw Esau and his men approaching, he took actions that would help protect his family. The same is true of me. God promises the end result, but getting there requires me to take action. Being smart and being careful does not negate God's will nor does it reveal doubt on my part. It is just the wise thing to do.
Third, Jacob got out in front and led. That is the hardest part of being a leader. When things get at their worst, I have to stay out in front and lead well. It does not matter the situation; my family, my friends and my staff must know that I am willing to walk in front of them in the face of hard times.
Finally, Jacob stayed calm and relied on God. Jacob prepared for the worst, but held out hope for the best. It would have been easy for Jacob to over react and attack his brother and fight to protect what was his. Instead, he realized that all he had was God's and it was God's to protect. As I sit here this morning and reflect over my life, I regret how much time I have lost at the vicious hands of over reacting. I must learn to stay calm trust God to lead me through.
Prayer:
Father, there is no escaping the fact that life is hard. There are so many things that happen and they the pace at which they come at me can be overwhelming. There have been many moments in my life where I have lifted up my eyes to see something I dread coming down on me.
I ask this morning for Your help. Teach me to seek Your will and in everything I do move forward with Your clear direction. It is much easier to take on a trial when I know that I am following your guidance.
I ask that you provide me with the wisdom I need to know how to make prudent choices that protect me and position me for success, but also do not negate my trust and faith in You.
Finally I ask that as I live my life out those around me will see me lead in a way that is worthy of Your calling of my life. I pray that the actions I take will result in people's faith in You being strengthened.
Father, I am grateful for the life that You have given to me. You have been gracious to me beyond what I could ever ask. You owe me nothing, yet give me everything. My desire to be with You grows stronger each day. My only ambition for today is that by its end I find myself closer to You than I am this morning.
Scripture:
"Then Jacob lifted his eyes and looked and behold, Esau was coming, and four hundred men with him." Genesis 33:1
Observation:
If Jacob could have had it his way, I am sure that he would have avoided his brother Esau all together. The promise and commands of God, however, carried Jacob straight into the face of the very thing that he feared most. He feared greatly what Esau would do when they saw each other. How he handled himself during this time would prove crucial.
Application:
God's commands seldom make sense to me. There are many times that I do not really pray according to his will. I say that I do, but reality is I want things to happen in a certain way. This is especially true when it comes to things that cause me fear or concern. I pray them away. That is the only outcome that I desire. But the plans of God often carry me straight into the teeth of the very storm I wish to escape. There are a few things that I feel I can learn from Jacob in this passage.
First, Jacob had a promise from God on which to stand. I think many times it is hard for me to find confidence to stand firm simply because I have skirted the process of seeking God. Instead of wrestling with Him and finding His plan for my life, I move forward with things hoping that they are right. Jacob new where God was calling him to go and was walking in obedience. I must learn to seek God in that way on the frontend of a situation and then stick with Him as things heat up.
Second, Jacob trusted in God but he still made prudent choices. Jacob sent Esau gifts and when he saw Esau and his men approaching, he took actions that would help protect his family. The same is true of me. God promises the end result, but getting there requires me to take action. Being smart and being careful does not negate God's will nor does it reveal doubt on my part. It is just the wise thing to do.
Third, Jacob got out in front and led. That is the hardest part of being a leader. When things get at their worst, I have to stay out in front and lead well. It does not matter the situation; my family, my friends and my staff must know that I am willing to walk in front of them in the face of hard times.
Finally, Jacob stayed calm and relied on God. Jacob prepared for the worst, but held out hope for the best. It would have been easy for Jacob to over react and attack his brother and fight to protect what was his. Instead, he realized that all he had was God's and it was God's to protect. As I sit here this morning and reflect over my life, I regret how much time I have lost at the vicious hands of over reacting. I must learn to stay calm trust God to lead me through.
Prayer:
Father, there is no escaping the fact that life is hard. There are so many things that happen and they the pace at which they come at me can be overwhelming. There have been many moments in my life where I have lifted up my eyes to see something I dread coming down on me.
I ask this morning for Your help. Teach me to seek Your will and in everything I do move forward with Your clear direction. It is much easier to take on a trial when I know that I am following your guidance.
I ask that you provide me with the wisdom I need to know how to make prudent choices that protect me and position me for success, but also do not negate my trust and faith in You.
Finally I ask that as I live my life out those around me will see me lead in a way that is worthy of Your calling of my life. I pray that the actions I take will result in people's faith in You being strengthened.
Father, I am grateful for the life that You have given to me. You have been gracious to me beyond what I could ever ask. You owe me nothing, yet give me everything. My desire to be with You grows stronger each day. My only ambition for today is that by its end I find myself closer to You than I am this morning.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Why Worry
Today's reading: Genesis 30:22-24 & Luke 12: 1-12; 22-48
Scripture:
"If then you cannot even do a very little thing, why do you worry about other matters." Luke 12:26.
Observation:
Worry is literally like a fire set in dry forest. It erupts into flames and destroys anything in its path. Its destruction spreads with an increasing velocity that cannot be slowed.
Application:
This morning as I sit with the counsel of this verse, I am not so much thinking about the normal aspects of worry such as money, family, health, etc. My mind is bent towards things concerning my mind, my heart, and my actions. I worry about these things greatly.
In Luke 12:35, Jesus issues a command to be dressed in readiness. That is where my worry comes into play. The condition of my mind, heart and actions are the very things that work against my readiness. I worry over the thoughts I have in my mind. I worry over the things I desire with my heart. I worry over the actions I take. I worry about the consequences of these and become quite anxious when they do not change at my preferred pace.
This morning, I am coming to realize something about myself. In Luke 12:31 Jesus says, "But seek His kingdom...". That is my problem. The reason I worry so much is that I want MY kingdom to be set. God calls me to seek His first. Then, He promises to take care of mine.
Prayer:
It would be very easy for me to become frustrated this morning. Your Word contains so many commands and so many invitations to follow after You in obedience. At the same time, it contains just as many warnings regarding the fact that I can't do this. Often this leaves me in a tormented state of feeling like I need to do something, but can't do anything.
I release to You today my mind, my heart and my actions. Teach me to be ready, to live alert and to not be tied down. I want to seek Your will and walk this earth as a man in crazy pursuit of Your kingdom; not my own.
There is not one single thing I can do to make these things happen other than to surrender to You and admit my absolute dependence upon You. I am at Your mercy today. Guide me down the path which leads to Your Holiness and guard me from the path which leads to my own destruction.
Scripture:
"If then you cannot even do a very little thing, why do you worry about other matters." Luke 12:26.
Observation:
Worry is literally like a fire set in dry forest. It erupts into flames and destroys anything in its path. Its destruction spreads with an increasing velocity that cannot be slowed.
Application:
This morning as I sit with the counsel of this verse, I am not so much thinking about the normal aspects of worry such as money, family, health, etc. My mind is bent towards things concerning my mind, my heart, and my actions. I worry about these things greatly.
In Luke 12:35, Jesus issues a command to be dressed in readiness. That is where my worry comes into play. The condition of my mind, heart and actions are the very things that work against my readiness. I worry over the thoughts I have in my mind. I worry over the things I desire with my heart. I worry over the actions I take. I worry about the consequences of these and become quite anxious when they do not change at my preferred pace.
This morning, I am coming to realize something about myself. In Luke 12:31 Jesus says, "But seek His kingdom...". That is my problem. The reason I worry so much is that I want MY kingdom to be set. God calls me to seek His first. Then, He promises to take care of mine.
Prayer:
It would be very easy for me to become frustrated this morning. Your Word contains so many commands and so many invitations to follow after You in obedience. At the same time, it contains just as many warnings regarding the fact that I can't do this. Often this leaves me in a tormented state of feeling like I need to do something, but can't do anything.
I release to You today my mind, my heart and my actions. Teach me to be ready, to live alert and to not be tied down. I want to seek Your will and walk this earth as a man in crazy pursuit of Your kingdom; not my own.
There is not one single thing I can do to make these things happen other than to surrender to You and admit my absolute dependence upon You. I am at Your mercy today. Guide me down the path which leads to Your Holiness and guard me from the path which leads to my own destruction.
Saturday, January 10, 2009
My Own Terms
Passages: Genesis 29:19-34 & Luke 10:24-42
Scripture:
"Martha, Martha, you are worried and bothered about so many things; but only one thing is necessary..." Luke 10:41
Observation:
Martha had her issues. She was busy making preparations and became irritated at the thought of her sister doing nothing. It is easy to imagine how she felt. Jesus did not wait for her to finish her tasks before he started teaching. Mary did not hang in there with her before going to hear him teach. She was left alone in her preparations. Jesus showed up while she was in the middle of something. Instead of stopping, she chose to miss out. Instead of owning her decision, she chose to resent those who made a better choice. Instead of slowing down to sense God's movement; she chose to stay on task.
Application:
As I look at this passage, I sense from God three things that He wants to say to me. First, what bothers and worries me? As I think on things that tick me off or cause me concern it creates a mental list in my mind at least a mile long. I am easily annoyed. I think the only skill that each person is naturally gifted at is being annoying. I am also easily worried. All it takes is one phone call, one simple letter, one hint of bad news; then worry descends on me like a bandit and robs me of every sense of peace that I have. The simple truth is that God calls me to be slow to anger, full of kindness and to worry about only one thing; His presence.
Second, what is my attitude in serving? Today's world focuses intently on people's natural gifts and abilities and equality. Everyone is supposed to carry their fair share of the burden and we all should do only those things that we feel capable of doing. It is easy to fall into that trap and become frustrated when things do not fall into alignment with that. All those things seem logical, but they are not Biblical. When I read the Bible, I seldom see people called to things they are naturally equipped to complete. I also NEVER see Jesus teaching on things being fair and balanced. The simple truth is that God calls me to serve with a pure heart, seeking his equipping, and ignoring the contributions of others.
Finally, do I pay attention to where God is moving? God is inconvenient and unconventional. He shows up at the worse of times and asks me to do things that just don't make sense. In the heat of an argument, He shows up and asks me to be kind. I pray for a chance to pray for someone and he sends me a candidate for turd of the year. I'm standing in line at the grocery store when my heart melts for the guy standing next to me. I am late for a meeting when someone stops in to say they need to talk. On and on and on I could go. Following after God is a task that will NEVER be convenient and will never follow my logic.
Prayer:
I want to serve You, but I want to serve You on my own terms. As I sit this morning and look on these three things, I feel helpless and hopeless. I need Your help. Learning to control my worries and annoyances; keeping my attitude in serving pure, and sensing Your movement and presence is something that I can't do on my own. I pray that You guide and direct me on this journey. Teach me to complete the things that You have placed on my heart this morning.
Scripture:
"Martha, Martha, you are worried and bothered about so many things; but only one thing is necessary..." Luke 10:41
Observation:
Martha had her issues. She was busy making preparations and became irritated at the thought of her sister doing nothing. It is easy to imagine how she felt. Jesus did not wait for her to finish her tasks before he started teaching. Mary did not hang in there with her before going to hear him teach. She was left alone in her preparations. Jesus showed up while she was in the middle of something. Instead of stopping, she chose to miss out. Instead of owning her decision, she chose to resent those who made a better choice. Instead of slowing down to sense God's movement; she chose to stay on task.
Application:
As I look at this passage, I sense from God three things that He wants to say to me. First, what bothers and worries me? As I think on things that tick me off or cause me concern it creates a mental list in my mind at least a mile long. I am easily annoyed. I think the only skill that each person is naturally gifted at is being annoying. I am also easily worried. All it takes is one phone call, one simple letter, one hint of bad news; then worry descends on me like a bandit and robs me of every sense of peace that I have. The simple truth is that God calls me to be slow to anger, full of kindness and to worry about only one thing; His presence.
Second, what is my attitude in serving? Today's world focuses intently on people's natural gifts and abilities and equality. Everyone is supposed to carry their fair share of the burden and we all should do only those things that we feel capable of doing. It is easy to fall into that trap and become frustrated when things do not fall into alignment with that. All those things seem logical, but they are not Biblical. When I read the Bible, I seldom see people called to things they are naturally equipped to complete. I also NEVER see Jesus teaching on things being fair and balanced. The simple truth is that God calls me to serve with a pure heart, seeking his equipping, and ignoring the contributions of others.
Finally, do I pay attention to where God is moving? God is inconvenient and unconventional. He shows up at the worse of times and asks me to do things that just don't make sense. In the heat of an argument, He shows up and asks me to be kind. I pray for a chance to pray for someone and he sends me a candidate for turd of the year. I'm standing in line at the grocery store when my heart melts for the guy standing next to me. I am late for a meeting when someone stops in to say they need to talk. On and on and on I could go. Following after God is a task that will NEVER be convenient and will never follow my logic.
Prayer:
I want to serve You, but I want to serve You on my own terms. As I sit this morning and look on these three things, I feel helpless and hopeless. I need Your help. Learning to control my worries and annoyances; keeping my attitude in serving pure, and sensing Your movement and presence is something that I can't do on my own. I pray that You guide and direct me on this journey. Teach me to complete the things that You have placed on my heart this morning.
Friday, January 9, 2009
Hollow Results and Empty Success
Today's Reading: Genesis 24:12; 26-27 & Luke 9:37-62
Scripture:
"He said, 'O LORD, the God of my master Abraham, please grant me success today, and show lovingkindness to my master Abraham.'" Genesis 24:12
Observation:
People pay attention. Abraham's servant observed what went on in Abraham's life and how he handled himself. In doing this, he obviously learned that the secret to Abraham's success was in his relationship with God.
Application:
Every moment of every day represents an opportunity for me to lead. Somebody, somewhere is always watching. My kids, my neighbors, my co-workers, my family, and my friends all observe how I am living my life out. What do they see? What would they say is the secret of my success?
Prayer:
I used to say that I can do nothing without You. There was a point in my life where I really believed that and then there was a point in my life when I just thought that was the Christian thing to say.
As I sit here this morning, I fully realize that I can do many things without You. I look back over my past and I see tons of things that I did without You. In all honesty, I did some really good things without You and even achieved some good results without You.
That is the thing that scares me. It is so easy to fool myself into thinking that You are with me and I am doing things with Your power, only to realize that I'm totally working towards my own end. Discerning the difference between walking in Your power and my own is something I can't do. I can't separate the two. My flesh is just to deceptive.
My prayer this morning is that You teach me to walk with You as Abraham did. I ask that my life be lived out in a manner that others will look on and , just as Abraham's servant did, see that running to You is the best choice from them to pursue.
All the things I have accomplished outside of Your will produced only hollow results and empty success. They failed to satisfy me and were gone as quickly as they came. I look at the fool I was and realize just how easy it would be to return to that same form.
Please guide me today. I ask that every choice, every moment, every action and every word that comes from my mouth today be given to You as service and worship. Save me from the me I can be and guide me to be a me that looks like Your Son.
Scripture:
"He said, 'O LORD, the God of my master Abraham, please grant me success today, and show lovingkindness to my master Abraham.'" Genesis 24:12
Observation:
People pay attention. Abraham's servant observed what went on in Abraham's life and how he handled himself. In doing this, he obviously learned that the secret to Abraham's success was in his relationship with God.
Application:
Every moment of every day represents an opportunity for me to lead. Somebody, somewhere is always watching. My kids, my neighbors, my co-workers, my family, and my friends all observe how I am living my life out. What do they see? What would they say is the secret of my success?
Prayer:
I used to say that I can do nothing without You. There was a point in my life where I really believed that and then there was a point in my life when I just thought that was the Christian thing to say.
As I sit here this morning, I fully realize that I can do many things without You. I look back over my past and I see tons of things that I did without You. In all honesty, I did some really good things without You and even achieved some good results without You.
That is the thing that scares me. It is so easy to fool myself into thinking that You are with me and I am doing things with Your power, only to realize that I'm totally working towards my own end. Discerning the difference between walking in Your power and my own is something I can't do. I can't separate the two. My flesh is just to deceptive.
My prayer this morning is that You teach me to walk with You as Abraham did. I ask that my life be lived out in a manner that others will look on and , just as Abraham's servant did, see that running to You is the best choice from them to pursue.
All the things I have accomplished outside of Your will produced only hollow results and empty success. They failed to satisfy me and were gone as quickly as they came. I look at the fool I was and realize just how easy it would be to return to that same form.
Please guide me today. I ask that every choice, every moment, every action and every word that comes from my mouth today be given to You as service and worship. Save me from the me I can be and guide me to be a me that looks like Your Son.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Doubts
Today's Reading: Genesis 19:15-16; Psalm 3; & Luke 7:1-35
Scripture:
"Summoning two of his disciples, John sent them to the Lord saying 'Are you the expected One, or do we look for someone else?'" Luke 7:19
Observation:
John the Baptist was the man. I mean, this cat was tough. He lived in the wilderness, ate locus, dressed funny and was just a wild man of God. I love him.
He clearly understood his role and purpose in living and spent his life fulfilling it. John was the first to testify as to who Jesus was. He baptized Him and saw the Spirit of God confirm the true identity of Jesus. He was absolute in his belief of this. In front of many witnesses, he proclaimed that Jesus was the Christ.
That is what has always been so strange about this passage. Here, he seeks confirmation of who Jesus is. John sat in prison and his life was approaching its end. As this occurred, he struggled with doubt. He did not deny it. He did not hide from it. He did not wonder what everyone would think if they saw him flip-flop. He dealt with his doubts and went straight to Jesus with them.
Application:
If John the Baptist was not immune from second guesses and doubts, why in the world would I not expect the same to be true of me? The world that I grew up in taught me that it was not good to question church or God. Doubting was bad. It was sinful to question God. The result of this in my life caused me to spend years suppressing things that did not make sense to me. I pretended to understand and this resulted in my faith being fake.
Passages like this one remind me that seasons of questioning and doubts are to be expected as part of the process of growing. If I push myself beyond what I know, it is only natural for me to find myself in situations that do not make sense to me and to wonder about the choices I made that got me there. In these moments, my reaction to these feelings is critical. I can deny and suppress them. I can get angry about them. I can say that I came up empty and return to my old life. Or; I can man up, get in the presence of my God, and work it out.
Prayer:
Your word says that perfect love casts out all fear. I am so very grateful that because of Your perfect love for me, I stand before You without any fear. I have the ability to come to You with anything.
My emotions are amazing. There are mornings that I awake to find my heart connected with You and our relationship to be more real than I have ever known it to be. I look in the mirror and say to myself this is going to be a great day. Then there are mornings I awake to find everything inside of me feels dead and Your presence seems to be a distant memory. I look in the mirror and wonder what is real.
Circumstances of life, the routine of my daily grind, the frustration of trials that refuse to leave, temptations that constantly return, the unfairness of life, the struggle of living by faith, and the incessant fight of good versus evil all rise up to war against my faith. I ask that in these moments You maintain control of my emotions and help me to deal with my doubts in a manner that honors You and builds up my faith. I ask that what Satan intends to tear me down result in You increasing my effectiveness.
Scripture:
"Summoning two of his disciples, John sent them to the Lord saying 'Are you the expected One, or do we look for someone else?'" Luke 7:19
Observation:
John the Baptist was the man. I mean, this cat was tough. He lived in the wilderness, ate locus, dressed funny and was just a wild man of God. I love him.
He clearly understood his role and purpose in living and spent his life fulfilling it. John was the first to testify as to who Jesus was. He baptized Him and saw the Spirit of God confirm the true identity of Jesus. He was absolute in his belief of this. In front of many witnesses, he proclaimed that Jesus was the Christ.
That is what has always been so strange about this passage. Here, he seeks confirmation of who Jesus is. John sat in prison and his life was approaching its end. As this occurred, he struggled with doubt. He did not deny it. He did not hide from it. He did not wonder what everyone would think if they saw him flip-flop. He dealt with his doubts and went straight to Jesus with them.
Application:
If John the Baptist was not immune from second guesses and doubts, why in the world would I not expect the same to be true of me? The world that I grew up in taught me that it was not good to question church or God. Doubting was bad. It was sinful to question God. The result of this in my life caused me to spend years suppressing things that did not make sense to me. I pretended to understand and this resulted in my faith being fake.
Passages like this one remind me that seasons of questioning and doubts are to be expected as part of the process of growing. If I push myself beyond what I know, it is only natural for me to find myself in situations that do not make sense to me and to wonder about the choices I made that got me there. In these moments, my reaction to these feelings is critical. I can deny and suppress them. I can get angry about them. I can say that I came up empty and return to my old life. Or; I can man up, get in the presence of my God, and work it out.
Prayer:
Your word says that perfect love casts out all fear. I am so very grateful that because of Your perfect love for me, I stand before You without any fear. I have the ability to come to You with anything.
My emotions are amazing. There are mornings that I awake to find my heart connected with You and our relationship to be more real than I have ever known it to be. I look in the mirror and say to myself this is going to be a great day. Then there are mornings I awake to find everything inside of me feels dead and Your presence seems to be a distant memory. I look in the mirror and wonder what is real.
Circumstances of life, the routine of my daily grind, the frustration of trials that refuse to leave, temptations that constantly return, the unfairness of life, the struggle of living by faith, and the incessant fight of good versus evil all rise up to war against my faith. I ask that in these moments You maintain control of my emotions and help me to deal with my doubts in a manner that honors You and builds up my faith. I ask that what Satan intends to tear me down result in You increasing my effectiveness.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Say What?
Today's passages: Genesis 15 & Luke 6:27-49
Scripture:
"Do not judge, and you will not be judged; and do not condemn, and you will not be condemned; pardon, and you will be pardoned. Give, and it will be given to you. They will pour out on your lap a good measure - pressed down, shaken together, and running over - For by your standard of measure it will be measured to you." Luke 6:37-38
Observation:
Say what? Love my enemies? Bless those who curse me? Loan to those who have no intent on repaying me? Pray for those who mistreat me? How is this possible and why does God ask me to do something so illogical? There are many questions created by this passage.
Application:
In all of the Bible, there is not a harder passage of scripture for me to digest than Luke 6:27-38. Life is tough. Bad things happen and most often they happen to me at the hands of another person. In those moments, God calls for a behavior that is quiet different from what my natural response is.
Prayer:
Father, as I try to apply this passage to my life I must admit I can not even write about how to do it. There is much in me stirred up against this passage. My heart is nowhere near being in alignment with this teaching. There is no need in me pretending. I judge. I condemn. I withhold gifts. I confess that to You this morning as my sin.
I do not want to be that way anymore. I read this passage and though it is outside of what is even possible for me to comprehend, there is something in it that appeals to me. I am tired of all the garbage I carry around that has been left by the hands of others. There are scars I wear everyday which remind me of rotten deals I have gotten. The memories of those things have become worse than the events themselves. I want to release them to You today. Holding on to them has only brought me pain.
Help me now to not judge, to not condemn, and to withhold nothing from anyone. Judgment and condemnation belong to You alone. You are my rock, my deliverer, and my defender. I no longer desire justice, but only long for peace. Your mercy towards me is far greater than anything I deserve. You have forgiven me so much in my life. It is foolish of me to not offer the same to others. Teach me to walk in Your good measure of peace and avoid giving myself away to bitterness and anger.
Scripture:
"Do not judge, and you will not be judged; and do not condemn, and you will not be condemned; pardon, and you will be pardoned. Give, and it will be given to you. They will pour out on your lap a good measure - pressed down, shaken together, and running over - For by your standard of measure it will be measured to you." Luke 6:37-38
Observation:
Say what? Love my enemies? Bless those who curse me? Loan to those who have no intent on repaying me? Pray for those who mistreat me? How is this possible and why does God ask me to do something so illogical? There are many questions created by this passage.
Application:
In all of the Bible, there is not a harder passage of scripture for me to digest than Luke 6:27-38. Life is tough. Bad things happen and most often they happen to me at the hands of another person. In those moments, God calls for a behavior that is quiet different from what my natural response is.
Prayer:
Father, as I try to apply this passage to my life I must admit I can not even write about how to do it. There is much in me stirred up against this passage. My heart is nowhere near being in alignment with this teaching. There is no need in me pretending. I judge. I condemn. I withhold gifts. I confess that to You this morning as my sin.
I do not want to be that way anymore. I read this passage and though it is outside of what is even possible for me to comprehend, there is something in it that appeals to me. I am tired of all the garbage I carry around that has been left by the hands of others. There are scars I wear everyday which remind me of rotten deals I have gotten. The memories of those things have become worse than the events themselves. I want to release them to You today. Holding on to them has only brought me pain.
Help me now to not judge, to not condemn, and to withhold nothing from anyone. Judgment and condemnation belong to You alone. You are my rock, my deliverer, and my defender. I no longer desire justice, but only long for peace. Your mercy towards me is far greater than anything I deserve. You have forgiven me so much in my life. It is foolish of me to not offer the same to others. Teach me to walk in Your good measure of peace and avoid giving myself away to bitterness and anger.
Monday, January 5, 2009
Words Hurt
Today's Reading: Genesis 12 & Luke 4
Scripture:
"And the one who curses you I will curse." Genesis 12:3
Observation:
This verse contains God's promise of protection to Abram. The use of the word curse here means to treat lightly, despise, or treat with contempt.
God's promise to Abram was to be with him and to protect Him. He would be his defender. All Abram had to do was walk with Him. In this passage God reveals to us what happens when Abram tries to protect himself and in doing so he reminds me of the wounds I inflict when I try to protect myself from the hurtful words of another.
Application:
It is easy to take a word like "curse" and get it confused. I often think of curse as a voodoo type ceremony where a person dressed in black cooks up a strange concoction designed to inflict mystical challenges to the intended target. That is the base definition I have of the word so when I see it my mind automatically goes to that and I easily blow past it.
But as I slow down and pay attention to what God is saying to me this morning I, I see the word and its message differently.
Curse can be defined as: to treat lightly, to despise, and to treat with contempt. When I look at those three components of this word, I realize just how much time I spend in battles based on them.
I am a young leader, so people often treat me lightly or try to dismiss me because of my age. When this happens it is so hard to not try and convince them that I am right or that I am worthy of their trust. It is so difficult to not seek their approval and praise and become angry when I sense that I am being dismissed.
This world is ruled by Satan and as such it hates God. That is a promise and a warning handed down to us from Jesus. I know this, yet when someone despises me I still like to act surprised. It really angers me when someone dislikes me. I first try to appease them and win them back to my side. If that does not work I become enraged and treat them as if they were my enemy. I have gotten myself in a ton of trouble over this thing. Vengeance is not mine to inflict.
People can be cruel. The contempt that humans have towards each other is incredible. Any decision that I make which lands in opposition of what someone wanted almost always ends with someone treating me with contempt. When this happens, it hurts. In my moments of hurt, I often make bad choices. I choose to feel bad about myself. I choose to be offended. I choose to react. I choose to build my case. In short, I often choose to be an idiot right back at them.
Prayer:
Thank You for the ability to laugh at myself. I have been tormented greatly over the past 5 or 6 weeks over the curses of other people. I have allowed them to rule my life, cloud my thoughts and control my emotions. I confess to You this morning that I have been wrong. I have sinned in this and repent of that today.
As I study this passage this morning I am reminded that the only thing that matters is whether or not I am walking with You. If I am walking in obedience to Your will for my life, it becomes Your life to defend. I pray today that You guide me on how to resolve this issue. I am totally powerless. All it will take is one encounter where I feel like I am treated lightly, despised or treated with contempt and I will fall right back into defending myself.
Slow me down today and speak loudly to me. Help me to know that You are there. Help me clearly see Your path before me. Strengthen me to say no to things that would remove Your protection from me. Deliver me from situations that would rob me of Your presence. And when adversity attacks me in the form of curses from another, I pray that you help me stay out of trying to protect or defend myself. My life is not mine to control or defend. I release both of those things to You today.
Scripture:
"And the one who curses you I will curse." Genesis 12:3
Observation:
This verse contains God's promise of protection to Abram. The use of the word curse here means to treat lightly, despise, or treat with contempt.
God's promise to Abram was to be with him and to protect Him. He would be his defender. All Abram had to do was walk with Him. In this passage God reveals to us what happens when Abram tries to protect himself and in doing so he reminds me of the wounds I inflict when I try to protect myself from the hurtful words of another.
Application:
It is easy to take a word like "curse" and get it confused. I often think of curse as a voodoo type ceremony where a person dressed in black cooks up a strange concoction designed to inflict mystical challenges to the intended target. That is the base definition I have of the word so when I see it my mind automatically goes to that and I easily blow past it.
But as I slow down and pay attention to what God is saying to me this morning I, I see the word and its message differently.
Curse can be defined as: to treat lightly, to despise, and to treat with contempt. When I look at those three components of this word, I realize just how much time I spend in battles based on them.
I am a young leader, so people often treat me lightly or try to dismiss me because of my age. When this happens it is so hard to not try and convince them that I am right or that I am worthy of their trust. It is so difficult to not seek their approval and praise and become angry when I sense that I am being dismissed.
This world is ruled by Satan and as such it hates God. That is a promise and a warning handed down to us from Jesus. I know this, yet when someone despises me I still like to act surprised. It really angers me when someone dislikes me. I first try to appease them and win them back to my side. If that does not work I become enraged and treat them as if they were my enemy. I have gotten myself in a ton of trouble over this thing. Vengeance is not mine to inflict.
People can be cruel. The contempt that humans have towards each other is incredible. Any decision that I make which lands in opposition of what someone wanted almost always ends with someone treating me with contempt. When this happens, it hurts. In my moments of hurt, I often make bad choices. I choose to feel bad about myself. I choose to be offended. I choose to react. I choose to build my case. In short, I often choose to be an idiot right back at them.
Prayer:
Thank You for the ability to laugh at myself. I have been tormented greatly over the past 5 or 6 weeks over the curses of other people. I have allowed them to rule my life, cloud my thoughts and control my emotions. I confess to You this morning that I have been wrong. I have sinned in this and repent of that today.
As I study this passage this morning I am reminded that the only thing that matters is whether or not I am walking with You. If I am walking in obedience to Your will for my life, it becomes Your life to defend. I pray today that You guide me on how to resolve this issue. I am totally powerless. All it will take is one encounter where I feel like I am treated lightly, despised or treated with contempt and I will fall right back into defending myself.
Slow me down today and speak loudly to me. Help me to know that You are there. Help me clearly see Your path before me. Strengthen me to say no to things that would remove Your protection from me. Deliver me from situations that would rob me of Your presence. And when adversity attacks me in the form of curses from another, I pray that you help me stay out of trying to protect or defend myself. My life is not mine to control or defend. I release both of those things to You today.
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